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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!

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Capital
John Lanchester | Faber & Faber Fiction

Capital

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Goodreads rating: 3.71

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If you're keen on understanding the intricacies of our economic system and its impacts on social structures, "Capital" might just change the way you see the world. It's a deep dive into the heart of capitalist dynamics that's both enlightening and thought-provoking, perfect for someone who appreciates thorough analysis and critical perspectives.
Bad Dreams and Other Stories
Tessa Hadley | Harperpb

Bad Dreams and Other Stories

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Goodreads rating: 3.68

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If you relish stories that uncover the extraordinary within the ordinary, Tessa Hadley's collection will speak to you. Hadley skillfully transforms everyday moments into pivotal experiences, capturing the universal in the specific. It's a read that promises to leave you with a renewed appreciation for life's quiet yet defining moments.
About a Boy
Nick Hornby | Penguin Books Ltd

About a Boy

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Goodreads rating: 3.8

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"About a Boy" weaves a heartfelt story of unlikely friendship that challenges the conventional definitions of family and maturity. If you're drawn to tales that delve into personal growth and the beauty of forming connections in unexpected places, this Nick Hornby novel has a warmth and wit that might just resonate with you. The dynamic between Will and Marcus offers both laugh-out-loud moments and poignant insights, making it a rich reading experience.
A Spot of Bother
Mark Haddon | Doubleday

A Spot of Bother

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Goodreads rating: 3.5

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If you found "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time" endearing, "A Spot of Bother" offers a similar charm but within the sphere of adult family life. Mark Haddon returns with his keen insight into human nature, this time exploring the mental turmoil of a retiree against the backdrop of family dysfunction. It's poignant, darkly humorous, and profoundly relatable, making you chuckle and wince in equal measure.
How to be Good - Thryft
Nick Hornby | Penguin

How to be Good

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Goodreads rating: 3.22

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"How to be Good" might tickle your fancy if you're into stories that satirize the complexities of contemporary life. Nick Hornby has a knack for capturing the absurdities of trying to be a moral person in a not-so-simple world. It's wittily observant, and you might find yourself both cringing and nodding along with the protagonist's dilemmas.
The Fortress of Solitude - Thryft
Jonathan Lethem | Vintage Contemporaries

The Fortress of Solitude

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Goodreads rating: 3.84

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The Fortress of Solitude is the story of Dylan Ebdus growing up white and motherless in downtown Brooklyn in the 1970s. It's a neighborhood where the entertainments include muggings along with games of stoopball. In that world, Dylan has one friend, a black teenager, also motherless, named Mingus Rude. As Lethem follows the knitting and unraveling of their friendship, he creates an overwhelmingly rich and emotionally gripping canvas of race and class, superheros, gentrification, funk, hip-hop, graffiti tagging, loyalty, and memory. The Fortress of Solitude is the first great urban coming of age novel to appear in years.(back cover)
Gabriel's Gift
Hanif Kureishi | Faber And Faber

Gabriel's Gift

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Goodreads rating: 3.28

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If you're drawn to stories that blend the vibrancy of city life with the intricacies of family dynamics and the wonder of youthful creativity, "Gabriel's Gift" might just be your next favorite read. It offers a unique perspective on how a young mind navigates through challenges using imagination as both an escape and a tool for self-discovery.
Elizabeth Finch
Julian Barnes | Jonathan Cape

Elizabeth Finch

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Goodreads rating: 3.18

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"Elizabeth Finch" is a thoughtful exploration of lives interconnected by ideas and the impact of a singular, inspiring teacher. As you step into the world of Elizabeth Finch, you'll be invited to contemplate the principles that shape civilization and the individuals within it. Julian Barnes crafts a narrative that not only honors the tradition of philosophy but encourages us to examine our own beliefs, making it a deeply resonant read for anyone who cherishes introspection and the lifelong quest for understanding.
Men from the Boys
Tony Parsons | Harper Collins

Men from the Boys

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Goodreads rating: 3.64

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Tony Parsons' "Men from the Boys" resonates with anyone who's stood at life's crossroads. The charm lies in its candid exploration of manhood and the poignant complexities of growing older, embracing change, and the enduring bonds of family. It's a story that feels deeply personal, yet universally relatable – perfect for a reflective afternoon.
The Yellow Birds
Kevin Powers | Sceptre

The Yellow Birds

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Goodreads rating: 3.74

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If you're looking for a raw and powerful exploration of the bonds forged in the midst of war, "The Yellow Birds" is a must-read. With haunting prose, Kevin Powers takes you on a journey that captures the unbreakable bond between two soldiers, as they navigate the horrors of war together. This book will leave you with a lasting impact, reminding you of the true cost of friendship and the weight of loss. Get ready to be moved.
Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk
Ben Fountain | Canongate Books Ltd

Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk

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Goodreads rating: 3.79

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"Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk" is a profound exploration of the intersection between military heroism and the spectacle of American culture. Ben Fountain's sharp, satirical voice captures the absurdity and poignancy of Billy's homecoming tour, tapping into deep questions about war and the people who fight it. If you appreciate narratives that combine dark humor with emotional depth, this book’s vivid storytelling won't disappoint.
Silver Sparrow
Tayari Jones | Algonquin Books

Silver Sparrow

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Goodreads rating: 3.9

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If the intricacies of family secrets and the nuances of sisterhood intrigue you, "Silver Sparrow" is a must-read. Jones skilfully delves into the dynamics of a divided family, set against the atmospheric backdrop of 1980s Atlanta. Her portrayal of the teenage girls' relationship, loaded with dramatic irony, ensures a gripping read that might just have you eagerly revisiting its pages.
Spring Flowers, Spring Frost

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If you're drawn to narratives where personal lives intertwine with national upheaval, "Spring Flowers, Spring Frost" could be a compelling read for you. Ismail Kadare invites you into an Albanian spring where the past isn't just alive; it's resurgent, blending modern dilemmas with the echoes of bygone eras. Witness a world where love and tyranny dance precariously, and secrecy's shadow looms ominously, poised to reveal what was thought buried.
Dirty Pretty Things
Michael Faudet | Andrews Mcmeel Publishing

Dirty Pretty Things

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Goodreads rating: 3.72

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If you're keen on diving into the raw emotions that love and loss stir within us, "Dirty Pretty Things" could be a treasure trove for you. Michael Faudet's ability to illustrate such powerful feelings through his poetry and short stories can make you feel as though you're reliving your own poignant memories. The blend of eroticism with emotional depth gives it an edge that's hard to put down.
The Book of Evidence
John Banville | Picador Classic

The Book of Evidence

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Goodreads rating: 3.7

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If you're drawn to the darker side of human nature, "The Book of Evidence" offers an intriguing journey. You'll delve into Frederick Montgomery's convoluted psyche, exploring themes of truth and self-deception. Banville's masterful prose will keep you hooked, questioning the very nature of reality and responsibility from the eyes of an unremorseful protagonist. It's a thought-provoking read that challenges moral perceptions, perfect for those who appreciate literary depth paired with the thrill of a crime story.
Imperial Bedrooms
Bret Easton Ellis | Picador

Imperial Bedrooms

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Goodreads rating: 3.2

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If you've ever wondered about the shadows lurking beneath the glitter of fame, Bret Easton Ellis's "Imperial Bedrooms" is a compelling dive into that abyss. The follow-up to "Less Than Zero," it drags the reader back into the lives of aging, morally ambiguous characters who navigate a life of excess and hollow luxury. Los Angeles serves as the perfect backdrop for a story that expertly blends elements of noir with the vacuity and sinister undercurrents of modern celebrity culture. Ellis's sharp prose and haunting reflections on youth, success, and self-deception make this book an unsettling yet fascinating read.
Lulu Meets God and Doubts Him
Danielle Ganek | Plume

Lulu Meets God and Doubts Him

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Goodreads rating: 3.22

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If The Devil Wears Prada charmed you with its behind-the-scenes fashion industry drama, "Lulu Meets God and Doubts Him" provides a similar treat, but for the art scene. You'd likely revel in the satirical take on how a tragedy can absurdly escalate an artist's fame. The novel offers a witty lens through which to view the quirks and pretensions of art aficionados, while telling the poignant story of a young woman's personal and artistic growth amidst the chaos. It's the kind of story that makes you chuckle, but also think deeply about the unpredictable waves of the art world.
The High Mountains of Portugal
Yann Martel | Canongate

The High Mountains of Portugal

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Goodreads rating: 3.39

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If you're drawn to stories that interweave personal quests with elements of the surreal, "The High Mountains of Portugal" could captivate you. Beyond the literal travels, Yann Martel's distinctive narrative might carry you through internal landscapes of grief and wonder, making you ponder the deeper connections that bind us all. Experience an existential adventure that's both magical and moving, sure to leave lasting impressions.
Started Early, Took My Dog
Kate Atkinson | Random House Export

Started Early, Took My Dog

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Goodreads rating: 3.93

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"Started Early, Took My Dog" is perfect if you're a fan of stories where unplanned decisions spiral into complex narratives. Tracy's leap into unexpected parenthood intertwines with Jackson Brodie’s separate, yet thematically similar journey, creating a layered mystery. Kate Atkinson delivers a tale where every action unfurls vast, interlocking puzzles reflecting on our human impulses and the consequences they bear.
Beasts of No Nation
Uzodinma Iweala | Harper Perennial

Beasts of No Nation

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Goodreads rating: 3.79

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Beasts of No Nation is a must-read for those interested in understanding the life of a child soldier in a war-torn African country. The book takes you through the gripping story of Agu, who is forced to become a guerilla fighter and adapt to a life of brutality and violence. Uzodinma Iweala's powerful writing style and Agu's journey towards finding himself is both haunting and inspiring. Readers have described the book to be a stark reminder of the harsh reality and the strength of human resilience.
The Inheritance of Loss
Just Arrived
Kiran Desai | Grove Press

The Inheritance of Loss

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Goodreads rating: 3.47

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This is the kind of novel that quietly breaks your heart while showing how people carry loneliness, pride, and hope across continents. Kiran Desai writes with a sharp eye for class, migration, and the small humiliations that shape lives. If you like literary fiction that feels intimate yet politically aware, this is a deeply rewarding read.
Dark Roots
Cate Kennedy | Scribe

Dark Roots

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Goodreads rating: 3.62

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"Dark Roots" masterfully explores those critical junctures most of us face, when the past and the potential future balance precariously on the edge of our decisions. Cate Kennedy has this incredible knack for drawing you into her characters' worlds with such vivid precision that you might forget you’re reading fiction. With each story uncovering the quiet dramas of ordinary life, you're set to embark on a journey that's as touching as it is hauntingly familiar.
How to Get Filthy Rich in Rising Asia
Mohsin Hamid | Hamish Hamilton

How to Get Filthy Rich in Rising Asia

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Goodreads rating: 3.82

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If you're drawn to stories of ambition and the often harsh realities of chasing wealth, Mohsin Hamid's novel will strike a chord. It's not just about making it big; it's a masterwork of storytelling that offers a profound commentary on desire, love, and the cost of success in a modernizing Asia. You'll find yourself rooting for the unnamed protagonist, while also pondering the very meaning of success in today's world.
The Last Illusion
Porochista Khakpour | Bloomsbury Publishing

The Last Illusion

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Goodreads rating: 3.37

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If you've ever felt like an outsider looking in, "The Last Illusion" might resonate with you deeply. Porochista Khakpour crafts a haunting yet beautiful tale of Zal, who grapples with his unconventional upbringing and the quest for identity amidst the buzzing chaos of New York City. The novel's blend of reality and magical realism might just stretch your perception of what it means to belong and become human.
The Bonfire of the Vanities
Just Arrived
Tom Wolfe | Vintage Books

The Bonfire of the Vanities

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Goodreads rating: 3.93

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Sherman McCoy is a WASP, bond trader and self-appointed 'Master of the Universe'. He has a fashionable wife, a Park Avenue apartment and a Southern mistress. His spectacular fall begins the moment he is involved in a hit-and-run accident in the Bronx. Prosecutors, newspaper hacks, politicians and clergy close in on him, determined to bring him down. The Bonfire of the Vanities is a caustic satire on the money-feverish Eighties. This exuberant novel cemented Wolfe's reputation as the foremost chronicler of his age.
Catching the Sun
Tony Parsons | Harper Collins Pub. (uk)

Catching the Sun

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Goodreads rating: 3.15

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Recommendations: - This book is a thrilling adventure that takes you on a journey to the beautiful island of Phuket, where you can experience the wonders of nature and the freedom to grow. Readers will be captivated by the Finn family's search for paradise, which becomes a journey of self-discovery. - "Catching the Sun" is a mesmerizing story that explores the resilience of a family facing both man-made disasters and the forces of nature. It highlights the power of love and the human spirit, making it a must-read for those seeking an emotional and transformative tale.
Born Free
Just Arrived
Laura Hird | Canongate Books

Born Free

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Goodreads rating: 3.7

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If you like your fiction funny, caustic, and painfully recognisable, this one really lands. It takes the ordinary mess of family life and turns it into something brilliantly tense, with sibling cruelty, generational clashes, and marital collapse all crackling on the page. Readers who enjoy sharp observation and dark humour will probably find it both hilarious and a little too close to home.
Jimtown Road
Dennis McFadden | Press 53

Jimtown Road

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Goodreads rating: 4.35

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If you're drawn to stories that unfold the intricate tapestries of small-town existence, "Jimtown Road" is a treasure trove just waiting to be discovered. McFadden's skillful storytelling transports you into the lives of characters that could be your neighbors, with quirks and secrets that resonate with the human experience. His award-winning prose promises a journey through the joys and tribulations that echo beyond the boundaries of Jimtown.
The Witch of Portobello
Paulo Coelho | Mcgraw Hill

The Witch of Portobello

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Goodreads rating: 3.56

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If you're at a crossroads in life or simply seeking a deeper understanding of your true self, "The Witch of Portobello" could resonate with you profoundly. Through Athena's enigmatic story, Coelho weaves the themes of self-discovery and authenticity with a magical touch that's both inspiring and thought-provoking. It might just challenge you to confront what it means to live passionately and authentically.
We Rose Up Slowly
Jon Gresham | Math Paper Press

We Rose Up Slowly

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Goodreads rating: 3.88

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If you're drawn to stories that offer glimpses into altered realities, where the mundane becomes otherworldly, "We Rose Up Slowly" might be just the book for you. Jon Gresham has a talent for capturing the essence of human desire amidst worlds falling apart, making you reflect on identity and connection in new, gravity-defying ways. It's a debut that promises to linger with you, like socks floating in a room where the rules have changed.
The Moroccan Daughter
Deborah Rodriguez

The Moroccan Daughter

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Goodreads rating: 3.64

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If you're intrigued by vivid cultural tapestries and the complexity of family dynamics, "Moroccan Daughter" is for you. Deborah Rodriguez delivers an engaging narrative that plunges you into the heart of Morocco, blending tradition with modern challenges. The book is a compelling choice for those who appreciate stories about personal strength, cultural identity, and the sometimes hidden ties that bind a family together.
Moth Stories
Leonora Liow | Ethos Books

Moth Stories

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Goodreads rating: 3.7

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"Moth Stories" strikes a deep emotional chord if you appreciate literature that delves into the complexities of human nature. Leonora Liow presents characters in vulnerable situations, inviting you to traverse the rugged terrain of their lives. With each story casting a light on different aspects of existence, from ambition to family dysfunction, this collection serves as a mirror to the resilient spirit we all share, making it a compelling read for those who are drawn to introspective and deeply human narratives.
The Long Song
Andrea Levy | Headline

The Long Song

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Goodreads rating: 3.8

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"The Long Song" is not just a historical narrative, it's a deep plunge into the lives of individuals who braved the era of slavery's end in Jamaica. Through the eyes of July, a slave girl, and the myriad characters around her, Andrea Levy spins a tale that's as rich in detail as it is in emotion. This story stands out with its intimate storytelling, offering a personal dimension to the grand, troubling canvas of history. If the past is a window to understanding the present, then this book is a clear pane looking back at a time of transformation and turmoil, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the roots of contemporary issues and the resilience of the human spirit.
Lost and Found
Just Arrived
Brooke Davis | Hachette

Lost and Found

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Goodreads rating: 3.4

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Millie Bird is a seven-year-old girl who always wears red wellington boots to match her red, curly hair. But one day, Millie’s mom leaves her alone beneath the Ginormous Women’s underwear rack in a department store, and doesn’t come back. Agatha Pantha is an eighty-two-year-old woman who hasn’t left her home since her husband died. Instead, she fills the silence by yelling at passers-by, watching loud static on TV, and maintaining a strict daily schedule. Until the day Agatha spies a little girl across the street. Karl the Touch Typist is eighty-seven years old and once typed love letters with his fingers on to his wife’s skin. He sits in a nursing home, knowing that somehow he must find a way for life to begin again. In a moment of clarity and joy, he escapes. Together, Millie, Agatha and Karl set out to find Millie’s mum. Along the way, they will discover that the young can be wise, that old age is not the same as death, and that breaking the rules once in a while might just be the key to a happy life.
A Reunion of Ghosts
Judith Claire Mitchell | 4th Estate

A Reunion of Ghosts

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Goodreads rating: 3.43

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If you relish a blend of sharp wit amid the gravity of life's darker moments, 'A Reunion of Ghosts' could be a satisfying read for you. The Alter sisters' interplay is not only an entertaining foray into familial bonds but also a lens into the impact of past generations. This book, with its clever spins on somber themes, might just validate the complexity of family ties and individual destiny, offering both laughter and profundity in every chapter.
Terms & Conditions
Robert Glancy | Bloomsbury

Terms & Conditions

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Goodreads rating: 3.78

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"Terms & Conditions" delves into the life of Frank, a man grappling with memory loss and the unsettling feeling that everything he knows is shifting beneath his feet. It's a thought-provoking read that cleverly intertwines the mundanity of contractual jargon with the protagonist's search for truth amid chaos. If you're looking for a novel that offers a mix of legal intrigue, dark humor, and the exploration of what makes us who we are, this book's unique narrative style and poignant questioning of life's real agreements will undoubtedly leave an impression.
The Uncommon Reader
Alan Bennett | Faber And Faber

The Uncommon Reader

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Goodreads rating: 3.73

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If you've ever thought royalty stick solely to tradition and protocol, "The Uncommon Reader" will charm you with its delightful premise of the Queen herself becoming enamored with the world of books. Alan Bennett spins a tale that's both subversive and heartwarming, inviting you to ponder the transformative power of reading. It's a short read, but it's rich with wit and a gentle nudge to rediscover your own love for literature.
Now That It's Over
O. Thiam Chin | Epigram Books

Now That It's Over

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Goodreads rating: 3.14

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"Now That It's Over" could provide a unique literary experience if you're interested in how life-altering events can abruptly change our destinies. This award-winning narrative intricately captures the emotional and physical devastation of a natural disaster, while also exploring the backstories and complexities of its characters' lives. It's a poignant read that could resonate deeply with anyone fascinated by the intertwining of personal histories and larger-than-life events.
Hot Milk
Just Arrived
Deborah Levy | Penguin

Hot Milk

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Goodreads rating: 3.48

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60% off est. retail
"Hot Milk is an extraordinary novel that powerfully depicts the complexities of female relationships and sexuality. With vividly descriptive language and dreamlike tones, this book will leave you spellbound and contemplating the power dynamics that exist among women. If you appreciate well-crafted literature that takes you on an emotional journey, then Hot Milk is an unmissable read."
Brick Lane
Ali Monica | Black Swan

Brick Lane

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Goodreads rating: 3.46

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"Brick Lane" isn't just a compelling narrative; it's a journey through the heart of an immigrant experience, bundled with the complex weaves of fate and self-determination. Monica Ali's characters are vivid and their stories resonate with authenticity. This novel could speak to you if you’re interested in the dynamics of cultural assimilation and the powerful arc of a woman's growth against the odds.
Wake Up, Sir!
Jonathan Ames | Pushkin Press

Wake Up, Sir!

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Goodreads rating: 3.76

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If you're drawn to the quirky charm of P.G. Wodehouse's stories, you'll find a clever and respectful nod to that world in "Wake Up, Sir!" Jonathan Ames serves up a contemporary tale that channels the whimsical and absurd spirit of classic Jeeves and Wooster escapades. It's a great fit if you're looking for laughs peppered with a touch of literary reverence.
The Emma Press Anthology of Love

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If you've ever found love elusive, surprising, or intertwined with the digital age's quirks, you'll connect deeply with this anthology. It's like a mosaic, each poem a shard reflecting different aspects of love in today's world—away from idealized romances towards something more real, more relatable. The voices here might just redefine what love means to you in the era of Tinder and Twitter.
Man Gone Down
Michael Thomas | Grove Press, Black Cat

Man Gone Down

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Goodreads rating: 3.24

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"Man Gone Down" could be a profound read for you if you're drawn to stories of personal struggle against socio-economic tides. Michael Thomas masterfully paints a portrait of a man caught between worlds, a theme that resonates with anyone who has battled to find their place in a society that often seems indifferent to their dreams. The protagonist's journey is not just a narrative but a mirror to the complexities of race, family, and ambition in modern America.
Delicious Foods: A Novel
James Hannaham | Back Bay Books

Delicious Foods: A Novel

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Goodreads rating: 3.81

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78% off est. retail
"Delicious Foods" is a powerful novel that tells the story of a mother's unwavering love for her son, and their struggle for freedom against a cruel system. The book is narrated by crack cocaine, which adds a unique and intriguing layer to the story. The characters are complex and well-drawn, and the prose is both poetic and gut-wrenching. This book is recommended for readers who appreciate intense and thought-provoking stories about the human condition.
The Faraday Girls
Monica McInerney | Ballantine Books

The Faraday Girls

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Goodreads rating: 3.82

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If you've ever felt both warmed and wounded by family ties, "The Faraday Girls" might resonate with you. Monica McInerney weaves a story that captures the complexities of familial love and the secrets that test those bonds. This book might just remind you of your own quirky relatives and the rollercoaster of emotions that come with big family gatherings. It's a story steeped in realism, drama, and the unraveling of past mysteries that could change everything.
UFO in Her Eyes
Xiaolu Guo | Vintage

UFO in Her Eyes

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Goodreads rating: 3.44

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If your curiosity leans toward how a rural setting grapples with the extraordinary, "UFO in Her Eyes" might just be the book for you. Xiaolu Guo intertwines the everyday with the bizarre, crafting a story that satirizes bureaucracy and transforms a simple farmer’s life into a spectacle. This mix of political commentary with a dose of the fantastic is sure to keep you pondering long after the last page.
The Reluctant Fundamentalist
Mohsin Hamid | Penguin Books

The Reluctant Fundamentalist

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Goodreads rating: 3.73

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69% off est. retail
"The Reluctant Fundamentalist" would resonate with you if you're into rich, thought-provoking tales. It's like a modern fable set in the post-9/11 world that challenges the reader to consider perspectives often left unexplored in mainstream narratives. The protagonist's internal conflict and the suspenseful, conversational style make it a compelling read that stays with you.
Liver and Other Stories
Will Self | Penguin

Liver and Other Stories

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Goodreads rating: 3.39

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If you're someone who enjoys deeply metaphorical stories that play with both language and structure, "Liver" might just be to your taste. It's a uniquely crafted tale that delves into the human condition by exploring the liver as more than an organ—but as a landscape of life's complexities. You might find it's a read that lingers with you, much like a rich aftertaste, encouraging profound thought about the interplay of life and body.
Numero Zero
Umberto Eco, Richard Dixon  | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Numero Zero

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Goodreads rating: 3.16

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If you're someone who delights in sharp-witted satire wrapped in a plot full of conspiracy theories and historical interplay, "Numero Zero" might just be your new favorite book. Eco teases the mind with his critique of media manipulation and the concoction of alternate histories, all while guiding you through a mysterious narrative that's as intellectually stimulating as it is entertaining.
Tender Delirium
Tania De Rozario | Math Paper Press

Tender Delirium

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Goodreads rating: 4.22

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This book could be a good read for you if you're looking for a collection of poetry and prose that fearlessly explores themes of love, longing, and societal norms. Tania De Rozario's Tender Delirium is a powerful and honest expression of queer desire, told through a confessional and often dark lens. With a mix of intensity and humor, this collection will captivate you and challenge your perception of what is considered "proper" subject matter in literature. It is a celebration of love and a rebellion against societal expectations, beautifully crafted by a talented writer.

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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.