Contemporary Fiction

Here in our Contemporary Fiction section at Thryft, discover compelling narratives from groundbreaking authors that challenge, entertain, and inspire us. From thought-provoking tales to emotional sagas, find your next page-turner here!

664 Results

Switch between grid and list views for a better book browsing experience!

664 Results

No results

No results

Testimony : A Novel - Thryft
Anita Shreve | Little, Brown And Company

Testimony : A Novel

Regular price $8.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.58

Regular price $8.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

Testimony by Anita Shreve is a gripping novel that delves into the consequences of one impulsive decision. The book explores the dark impulses and fears that lead to intolerable dilemmas. The unique and distinctive feature of this book is its ability to give voice to various characters from different backgrounds and perspectives, making it a compelling emotional drama. This book is recommended for those who enjoy stories about personal and moral dilemmas.
MIR 10 - Thryft
Evie Wyld, Jackie Kay, Colin Grant  | Birkbeck

MIR 10

Regular price $8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 40%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.6

Regular price $8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 40%

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

"MIR 10" is like taking a world trip from your armchair, tapping into a vibrant tapestry of cultures, experiences, and emotions. The anthology breaks the mold, showcasing how diverse voices can weave unforgettable narratives that resonate with anyone looking for fresh, authentic storytelling. Each piece promises to challenge your views or tug at your heartstrings, making it a precious find for literary explorers.
Frankie & Stankie
Barbara Trapido | Penguin

Frankie & Stankie

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.62

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

"Frankie & Stankie" is not just a window into the past struggles against racial injustice—it's a vibrant portal. As you follow Dinah and Lisa on their journey from innocence to a more acute awareness of their society's deep-seated inequalities, you experience the paradox of growing up in a world where the division of race is stark but the spirit of youth is universal. This novel's honest portrayal of childhood amidst social turmoil is both poignant and illuminating, perfect for those who appreciate historical depth woven seamlessly with personal growth.
Things: A Story of the Sixties
Georges Perec, David Bellos  | Vintage Classics

Things: A Story of the Sixties

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.99

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Things" is a poignant exploration that resonates deeply with anyone feeling the lure of material desires over genuine life experiences. Georges Perec masterfully captures the paradox of the consumerist chase, where the very objects meant to bring happiness also weave a trap of dissatisfaction. It's a thoughtful read for those who've ever questioned the true cost of their wants and the weight of possessions on their freedom.
Music for Torching - Thryft
A.M. Homes | Granta Books

Music for Torching

Regular price $8.68 from $5.90 Save up to 36%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.7

Regular price $8.68 from $5.90 Save up to 36%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Music for Torching" could be the perfect book for you if you're drawn to stories that peel back the facade of idyllic suburbia to reveal the raw, sometimes shocking truths that lie beneath. A.M. Homes masterfully combines humor and horror to craft a narrative that's both compelling and unsettling. It's that rare kind of read that might disturb yet fascinate you, challenging your perceptions of normality with its vivid and precise prose. If you're up for a journey through the darker aspects of human nature, this book beckons.
The Field - Thryft
Robert Seethaler | Picador

The Field

Regular price $8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 40%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.52

Regular price $8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 40%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"The Field" brings a poignant exploration of existence through voices that no longer walk among us. It's a touching mosaic of memories, each unique and deeply human, composing the narrative of an entire community. Imagine a book where the past echoes alongside the present, stitching together the fabric of an entire town through whispers from beyond the veil; that's the haunting beauty of Seethaler's writing.
The Unseen
Don Bartlett, Don Shaw, Roy Jacobsen  | Maclehose Press

The Unseen

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.0

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"The Unseen" is an evocative exploration of isolation and the inevitable pull of the outside world. Delving into Ingrid's life, you're transported to the stark yet mesmerizing reality of enduring on a remote Norwegian island. The novel intricately weaves themes of tradition, family bonds, and personal ambition. It's a tale that captures the conflict between the comfort of home and the lure of the unknown. If you're drawn to narratives that mirror the intricacies of human desires against a backdrop of natural beauty, this book might just resonate with you.
Love's Rough Journeys - Thryft
David W.F. Wong | By Author

Love's Rough Journeys

Regular price $8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 46%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 2.5

Regular price $8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 46%

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

If you've ever felt like love is a journey that takes you through storms and serene seas alike, then David W.F. Wong's "Love's Rough Journeys" could resonate deeply with you. Wong has a knack for capturing the complexities of relationships, making his portrayal of love incredibly relatable and emotionally engaging. Dive into this book if you're ready for a story that mirrors the highs and lows of giving your heart to another.
Freedom
Jonathan Franzen | Fisicalbook

Freedom

Regular price $8.90 from $3.90 Save up to 84%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.78

Regular price $8.90 from $3.90 Save up to 84%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you've ever questioned the complexities of love, marriage, and personal freedom, then Franzen's "Freedom" could resonate deeply with you. It's a mirror held up to the nuance of contemporary relationships, reflecting on the intricacies of family dynamics, and the paradoxes of the freedoms we cherish. The characters are deeply flawed, relatable, and their struggles are articulated with a raw honesty that might just redefine the way you see life's arbitrary happenings.
An Equal Music
New
Vikram Seth | Phoenix House

An Equal Music

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.8

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If music stirs your soul, "An Equal Music" might resonate with you beautifully. Vikram Seth intricately weaves love with the dedication of a musician's life, creating an atmospheric read that feels as textured as a well-composed symphony. It's for anyone who appreciates the profound connection between passion for art and the complexities of love.
In Other Rooms, Other Wonders
New
Daniyal Mueenuddin | Random House India

In Other Rooms, Other Wonders

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.76

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

This collection of interconnected stories by Daniyal Mueenuddin will resonate with you if you're drawn to rich, nuanced storytelling. It's a tapestry that weaves together the lives of diverse characters across class lines in Pakistan, offering a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into their loves, losses, and the complexities of their social fabric. The raw humanity displayed in each narrative makes "In Other Rooms, Other Wonders" a profound read that stays with you long after you've turned the final page.
Surveillance: A Novel - Thryft
Jonathan Raban | Pantheon

Surveillance: A Novel

Regular price $8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 34%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 2.79

Regular price $8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 34%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Surveillance" might speak to you if you're intrigued by the tension between personal freedom and societal security — a theme that's only grown more relevant since 9/11. Jonathan Raban crafts a story that dives into the life of a journalist and single mother navigating this transforming world. It's darkly humorous and offers astute commentary on contemporary society, perfect for readers who appreciate a blend of wit and critical insight.
Five Days Left
Julie Lawson Timmer (author) | Arrow Books Ltd

Five Days Left

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.88

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Five Days Left" could resonate deeply if you're drawn to human drama and the intricate emotional journeys individuals face during pivotal moments in life. Mara and Scott's lives, connected through the virtual world, offer a somber yet beautiful lens into the sacrifices we make for love. It's a tale that invites reflection on our own choices and the fleeting nature of time.
Shezlez the Self-Proclaimed - Thryft
Marko Vignjević | Ethos Books

Shezlez the Self-Proclaimed

Regular price $7.90 from $4.90 Save up to 51%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.24

Regular price $7.90 from $4.90 Save up to 51%

Unit price
per

In stock: Like New

"Shezlez the Self-Proclaimed" paints a satirical yet profound picture of political struggles, perfect if you're into dark humor laced with existential undertones. As Shezlez's journey unfolds, the book offers a sharp critique of a society where power and deceit dance together, making you question the very nature of ambition and integrity. The narrative deftly captures the grotesque and the folly in the quest for influence, striking chords with anyone who's ever witnessed the absurdity of politics.
The City of Your Final Destination
Peter Cameron | Farrar, Straus & Giroux

The City of Your Final Destination

from $9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.87

from $9.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

If the whimsy of unexpected travel entices you or the complexity of love intrigues you, "The City of Your Final Destination" might just be your next favorite read. This novel is more than a tale of seeking permission for a biography—it's a discovery of desires and choices. Cameron's mastery of language paints each character vividly, elicits smiles, and promises a refreshing examination of how the unpredictability of love can redefine our destinies. It's for those who appreciate life's serendipitous moments and the elegance in human connections.
The Rotters' Club
New
Jonathan Coe | Penguin Books

The Rotters' Club

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.96

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you're intrigued by the quirks of youth intertwined with historical backdrops, "The Rotters' Club" might just be your cup of tea. Jonathan Coe has woven a narrative that not only captures the spirit of the 1970s but also delves into the complexities of growing up. It's particularly enticing for those who appreciate a mixture of humor, nostalgia, and social commentary wrapped up in a coming-of-age tale.
The House of Sleep
New
Jonathan Coe | Penguin Books

The House of Sleep

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.94

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"The House of Sleep" offers a clever intertwining of lives and dreams that will resonate with anyone who has ever pondered the mysteries of sleep and the complexities of love. The quirky characters and their unique afflictions serve as a fascinating backdrop for exploring human connections. Coe's witty writing and inventive plot make for a compelling and thought-provoking read.
Ever After - Thryft
Graham Swift | Picador

Ever After

Regular price $8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 37%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.56

Regular price $8.90 from $5.90 Save up to 37%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Ever After" could resonate with your soul on a deeply personal level. Swift masterfully interlaces different stories, prompting moments of profound self-recognition. If you appreciate novels that gently draw you in and then surprise you with the depth of emotion and insight they evoke, this might just be your next favorite read. The critics rave about its intelligence and emotional depth, suggesting it could stir thoughts and feelings you thought were uniquely yours.
Chestnut Street
Maeve Binchy | Orion

Chestnut Street

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.7

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

Chestnut Street could be a good read for someone looking for a collection of heartwarming and relatable stories. Maeve Binchy's superb storytelling brings to life the lives of the residents on Chestnut Street, capturing their struggles, triumphs, and unexpected turns. With enough kindness, wisdom, and insight into human nature, this book is a reminder of why Maeve Binchy is beloved by readers worldwide.
Change of Heart - Thryft
Jodi Picoult | Hodder

Change of Heart

Regular price $6.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.94

Regular price $6.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Change of Heart" is a heart-wrenching story of loss, love, and redemption. The unique aspect of this book is the moral dilemma it poses and the question of forgiveness. The author narrates the story from the perspective of various characters, shedding light on their struggles and emotions. The book would be perfect for readers who enjoy emotionally charged stories with complex characters and intricate plotlines.
4 3 2 1
Paul Auster | Faber & Faber

4 3 2 1

from $10.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.96

from $10.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Like New

If you're intrigued by the idea of how different choices can radically change our paths, "4321" will captivate you. Paul Auster presents four parallel lives of Archie Ferguson, each spun from the same starting points yet unfolding into distinct narratives. The novel's exploration of identity, family, and chance isn't just a compelling read—it's a profound meditation on the 'what-ifs' of life that could keep you thinking long after the last page.
Western Lane
New
Chetna Maroo | Picador

Western Lane

from $9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.5

from $9.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Like New

Empty string
The Water-Method Man - Thryft
Irving John | Black Swan

The Water-Method Man

Regular price $7.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.37

Regular price $7.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

Fred 'Bogus' Trumper is a wayward knight-errant in the battle of the sexes and the pursuit of happiness. He also happens to have a complaint more serious than Portnoy's. Yet he stubbornly clings to the notion that he'll make something of his life, and is about to commit himself to a second marriage that bears remarkable resemblance to his first.The Water-Method Man is a work of cosummate artistry and comic invention, bizarre imagery and sharp social and psychological observation.
The God of Small Things
New
Arundhati Roy | Penguin

The God of Small Things

from $9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.95

from $9.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

Recommended for readers who enjoy magical realism and want to experience a richly detailed portrayal of childhood in India. Arundhati Roy's poetic prose and unique storytelling style create a multi-layered narrative that captures the complexities of family, politics, and society in India. The book's use of magical realism adds a dreamlike quality to the narrative and allows Roy to explore themes such as love, loss, and identity in a way that is both imaginative and profound. Overall, "The God of Small Things" is a captivating read that offers a unique perspective on Indian culture and society.
S.
John Updike | Fawcett Crest

S.

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.35

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you're feeling a tad stuck in routine, "S." could be just the escape. It's not just about Sarah abandoning her comfortable life; it's a sharp and satirical look at the search for meaning beyond the picket fences that might mirror a yearning in many of us. Updike has a reputation for wit and depth, and you'll get plenty of both here as you journey with Sarah and possibly reflect on your own life's pilgrimage.
The Campus Trilogy - Thryft
David Lodge | Penguin Books

The Campus Trilogy

Regular price $14.90 from $8.90 Save up to 42%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.16

Regular price $14.90 from $8.90 Save up to 42%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you find the often untold idiosyncrasies of academic life amusing or if you're part of that world yourself and in need of a good-natured laugh, 'The Campus Trilogy' might just be the perfect blend of sophistication and humor for you. David Lodge playfully navigates through the lives of eccentric academics, making sharp, humorous observations that are bound to resonate with anyone who's experienced the cloistered life of universities.
Great Expectations
New
Kathy Acker | Grove Press

Great Expectations

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.59

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you're drawn to classic literature with rich character development, "Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens won't disappoint. This novel delves into social class, personal growth, and the riddles of love and wealth. It's a transformative story that resonates as much now as it did when first published, speaking to the universal pursuit of a better life.
Swing Time
New
Zadie Smith | Penguin

Swing Time

from $9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.56

from $9.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

Zadie Smith's "Swing Time" is a beautifully layered narrative that juggles time and place with the ease of a skilled dancer. The novel not only explores the complex dynamics of friendship and the personal cost of ambition, but it also delves into identity and roots. If you appreciate multifaceted character development and stories that capture the intricacies of human relationships against a backdrop of cultural commentary, "Swing Time" will likely resonate with you.
Lillian on Life
Alison Jean Lester | G.p. Putnam's Sons

Lillian on Life

from $14.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.46

from $14.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you've ever felt the tug between tradition and the path less traveled, "Lillian on Life" could resonate with you deeply. Alison Jean Lester offers a narrative that's rich with introspection and brimming with the flavors of different eras. Lillian's story could be particularly compelling if you appreciate character-driven novels that delve into the complexities of love, personal growth, and the pursuit of happiness against societal norms.
The Virgin Suicides
New
Jeffrey Eugenides | Bloomsbury Pub Ltd

The Virgin Suicides

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.8

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"The Virgin Suicides" is a poignant read that will resonate if you're drawn to stories that blend the macabre with the poetic. Eugenides crafts a narrative that's both eerie and tender, exploring adolescence and the profound impact of the Lisbon sisters' enigmatic lives and tragic fates on the boys who can't forget them. It's evocative and will likely stay with you, challenging you to decipher its deeper meanings about the pains of growing up.
Barney's Version
Mordecai Richler | Ccv

Barney's Version

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.16

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you're drawn to character-driven narratives with a distinctive voice, "Barney's Version" might just be the next book to get lost in. Richler masterfully presents a protagonist whose unreliable memories paint a vibrant, if questionable, mosaic of a life filled with triumphs, failures, and unwavering candidness. Barney's tale is unique in its honesty and dark humor, and you may find yourself both rooting for and against him as he reveals his version of the truth.
Diary of a Madman and Other Stories

from $10.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

If you've ever wanted to delve into the influential mind that shaped modern Chinese literature, this is your chance. Lu Xun's stories are rich with piercing wit and a deep understanding of the human condition. The translation captures the essence of his irony and style, making these classic tales resonate with contemporary readers and offering a keen insight into China's cultural shifts.
he : A Novel - Thryft
John Connolly | Hodder & Stoughton Ltd

he : A Novel

Regular price $8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 46%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.0

Regular price $8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 46%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you're touched by the magic of old Hollywood and the poignant behind-the-scenes lives of its stars, "he" is a must-read. John Connolly dives deep into the heart and soul of Stan Laurel, exploring the complexities of his partnership with Oliver Hardy. It offers both a celebration of artistic genius and a compassionate examination of the private cost of fame. You'll come away feeling like you've glimpsed beneath the surface of these cinematic legends, making your laughter upon watching their films all the more heartfelt.
Bech at Bay - Thryft
John Updike | Ballantine Books

Bech at Bay

Regular price $8.68 from $5.90 Save up to 36%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.69

Regular price $8.68 from $5.90 Save up to 36%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you're drawn to tales of beleaguered authors mired in the complexities of fame and creativity, "Bech at Bay" will resonate with you. Updike's prose, sharp and satirical, weaves a narrative that not only illuminates Bech's character but also offers a biting critique of literary life. It's unsurprisingly witty and showcases Updike's ability to dissect human vulnerabilities.
Jasmine - Thryft
Bharati Mukherjee | Virago

Jasmine

Regular price $8.68 from $5.90 Save up to 36%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.47

Regular price $8.68 from $5.90 Save up to 36%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Jasmine" offers a potent journey, capturing raw transformation against the backdrop of cultural upheaval. Bharati Mukherjee immerses you in the protagonist's complex reinvention, a narrative rife with the struggles and aspirations of an immigrant. You'll find it grips your heart with its poignant explorations of identity and resilience.
What I Loved - Thryft
Siri Hustvedt | Henry Holt And Co.

What I Loved

Regular price $5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.08

Regular price $5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

This book is a must-read for those who appreciate raw and emotive storytelling. Through the complex relationships between two families, "What I Loved" examines the fragility of love and the devastation of loss. With its captivating exploration of deep human connections, this novel will leave you questioning the power of friendship and the essence of existence itself. Prepare to be completely absorbed by Siri Hustvedt's moving prose and compelling characters.
Cowboys Are My Weakness : Stories - Thryft
Pam Houston | Washington Square Press

Cowboys Are My Weakness : Stories

Regular price $5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.08

Regular price $5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 51%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

Recommendation: This collection of vividly narrated short stories follows heroines on their journey towards satisfying their semi-romantic, adventure-seeking cowboys craving, ultimately discovering their own strength and resilience in the process. Pam Houston's Cowboys Are My Weakness is a modern work of genius that amazingly captures the nuances of modern women and their struggles with love and relationship, and it's especially recommended to those who are looking for a unique blend of adventure and romance.
The Finkler Question
New
Howard Jacobson | Bloomsbury

The Finkler Question

Regular price $8.90 from $8.26 Save up to 12%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 2.83

Regular price $8.90 from $8.26 Save up to 12%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

Recommendation: - "The Finkler Question" is an insightful and thought-provoking exploration of themes like exclusion, belonging, and the search for identity. Howard Jacobson's brilliant writing takes you on a journey through the lives of three old friends, each grappling with their own personal struggles and losses. With humor and honesty, this novel delves into the complexities of love, wisdom, and the universal need for connection. A must-read for anyone who enjoys profound storytelling that challenges societal norms.
Elizabeth Costello
New
J.M. Coetzee | The Viking Press

Elizabeth Costello

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.47

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

"Elizabeth Costello" is a thought-provoking journey into the mind of an author, presenting philosophical and ethical dilemmas through the protagonist's addresses. Each chapter offers a different facet of Elizabeth's character and ideals, making it a rich, intellectual read. It's crafted for those who appreciate character studies and the intricacies of moral contemplation within the world of storytelling and beyond.
Use Me - Thryft
Elissa Schappell | Harper Perennial

Use Me

Regular price $5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 43%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.48

Regular price $5.90 from $3.90 Save up to 43%

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

"Use Me" is a poignant and introspective collection of stories that explores the complex emotions and experiences of being a woman. Each story is intimate and deeply personal, drawing readers into the inner lives of its characters. Schappell's writing is both artful and accessible, making this a perfect book for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted story that leaves a lasting impact. With its focus on the most profound experiences of a woman's life, this book is sure to resonate with many readers.
Emily L. - Thryft
Marguerite Duras, Barbara Bray  | Flamingo

Emily L.

Regular price $8.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.67

Regular price $8.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you've ever felt the ache of faltering love, Marguerite Duras' "Emily L." eloquently captures that raw emotion. The prose is almost poetic, every sentence heavy with meaning. As you lose yourself in the hypnotic rhythm of the characters' exchange, you'll find a strange comfort in the shared human experience of love and loss. This isn't just a read; it's a journey through the complexities of the heart.
Inheritance of Loss
Kiran Desai | Penguin Books

Inheritance of Loss

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.45

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Inheritance of Loss" offers a lush literary adventure that brings the cultural and political tensions of the modern Himalayas to life. As you follow the intertwined fates of the characters, you delve into profound narratives of love, ambition, and identity. Kiran Desai's storytelling is both poignant and enlightening, turning the personal into a commentary on global struggles, which makes it a captivating read for anyone intrigued by the complexity of human emotions set against a backdrop of historical change.
England, England
Julian Barnes | Picador

England, England

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.31

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you take delight in sharp satire and are pondering about what makes England, well, England, then Julian Barnes' "England, England" is a must for your shelf. As you immerse yourself in the comedic and somewhat dystopian mini-England created on the Isle of Wight, expect to reflect deeply on authenticity and identity amidst laugh-out-loud moments. It's a novel that looks beyond nostalgia and heritage to poke at something tender and true—how we package culture and history for consumption.
Virgil Wander
Leif Enger | Grove Press

Virgil Wander

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.01

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Like New

If you crave a slice of Americana wrapped in lyrical prose, then "Virgil Wander" is for you. Enger crafts a tale that's both intimate and sweeping, capturing small-town dynamics with characters that feel like old friends. It's a book that offers warmth, wit, and the comforting notion that a community can come together to find renewal and hope.
In Evil Hour - Thryft
Gabriel García Márquez | Pan Books

In Evil Hour

Regular price $8.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.43

Regular price $8.90 from $3.90 Save up to 56%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"In Evil Hour" by Gabriel García Márquez offers you a journey into a community fraught with tension and secrets risen to the surface. You'll be drawn into the rhythm of a society that has just emerged from civil war, where the personal becomes political and vice versa. The book's lyrical prose and haunting portrayal of human nature make it a compelling read for anyone interested in the complexities of small-town dynamics and the repercussions of unspoken truths.
The Quarry
Iain Banks | Hachette

The Quarry

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.61

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you're someone who treasures novels with a blend of dark humor and rich character study, "The Quarry" by Iain Banks might speak to you. It dives into complex themes with a backdrop that is both sobering and wryly observant. And as one of the last works by Banks, it holds a unique poignancy that might make the experience even more resonant for fans and new readers alike.
In Between the Sheets - Thryft
Ian McEwan | Vintage

In Between the Sheets

Regular price $8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 46%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.29

Regular price $8.90 from $4.90 Save up to 46%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"In Between the Sheets" might just resonate with you if the complexities of human desire and the darker corners of the psyche intrigue you. The book's deep dive into characters' inner worlds exposes the nuanced interplay of power and vulnerability. Ian McEwan has a knack for crafting stories that are as haunting as they are insightful, making this collection a compelling read for those who appreciate fiction that not only entertains but also provokes thought.
The Story of a Brief Marriage
Anuk Arudpragasam | Granta Books

The Story of a Brief Marriage

from $10.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.81

from $10.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"The Story of a Brief Marriage" deeply immerses you in the raw reality of life during wartime. Its beauty lies in how it captures the fleeting moments of connection and humanity between two strangers thrust into an arranged marriage amidst chaos. The prose is meditative and nuanced, and it is impossible not to be moved by the characters' search for understanding in a world that seems to be falling apart around them. If you're drawn to novels that make you ponder the human condition, this book's quiet intensity and emotional depth will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
26A
New
Diana Evans | Anchor Canada

26A

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.66

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"26A" will resonate if you're captivated by stories that blend the raw complexities of family with a touch of magical realism. Diana Evans brings to life the intimate world of twins Georgia and Bessi with a tenderness that tugs at the heartstrings, yet doesn't stray from the hard truths of growing up and growing apart. It's a read that might remind you of your own childhood dreams and the paths we take into adulthood, filled with both whimsy and poignant reality.
Our Gang
Philip Roth | Jonathan Cape

Our Gang

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.38

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Our Gang" by Philip Roth offers a razor-sharp satire of American politics that might appeal to you if you enjoy a blend of dark humor and historical critique. Roth's Trick E. Dixon is an exaggerated, yet eerily familiar political figure whose absurdity mirrors the cynicism and disillusionment of the era. With a flair for the outrageous, Roth dissects the mechanisms of power and public apathy, crafting a narrative that's as entertaining as it is scathing. This one's a gem for those who appreciate both literary prowess and biting social commentary.

Explore Modern Narratives

Whether you’re drawn to gritty urban plots or stories focused on tender relationships, novels in our Contemporary Fiction section echo the complexities of today’s world. Immerse yourself in stories that capture significant human experiences, by insightful authors from around the globe. This is our gateway to modern narratives shaping the future of literature.