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!

567 Results

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

567 Results

No results

Grey Area
Will Self | Atlantic Monthly Press

Grey Area

$10.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$10.90

Unit price
per

59% off est. retail
If you delight in satirical takes on contemporary existence, Will Self's "Grey Area" will tickle your intellect. With its sharp wit and incisive social commentary wrapped in the cloak of dark humor, this book is for readers who love to ponder the peculiarities of our time. The stories stretch reality to shine a light on our collective follies, making "Grey Area" a compelling read with a bite.
Study for Obedience
Sarah Bernstein

Study for Obedience

$9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.01

$9.90

Unit price
per

49% off est. retail
If you're captivated by the psychological depths of human nature and its susceptibilities, "Study for Obedience" might just be your next gripping read. Sarah Bernstein doesn't shy away from the uncomfortable, delivering a narrative that's both thought-provoking and disquieting, perfect for those who appreciate a story that challenges the moral compass.
A Little Life - A Novel - Thryft
Hanya Yanagihara | Vintage

A Little Life

$12.19

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.28

$12.19

Unit price
per

If you crave a story that grips your heart tightly and lingers long after you've turned the last page, "A Little Life" is that emotionally heavy but profoundly moving read. It's an immersive journey that explores the complexities of human relationships, the weight of past traumas, and the enduring power of friendship. Just a heads-up: it's not a light read, so be prepared for a narrative that's as challenging as it is rewarding.
The Reading List

The Reading List

$9.90

Unit price
per

$9.90

Unit price
per

49% off est. retail
"The Reading List" weaves together the enchanting tale of two strangers finding solace and connection in a shared journey through books. As Mukesh and Aleisha dive into each story, they inadvertently embark on a path of self-discovery and companionship. This book is a heartfelt reminder of how literature can be a catalyst for friendship, healing, and new beginnings. It's perfect for anyone who believes in the transformative power of stories to touch lives and bring people closer.
David's Story
Zoë Wicomb | Kwela Books

David's Story

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.37

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

"David's Story" delves into the complex layers of South African history and identity. Zoë Wicomb weaves a narrative that's as personal as it is political, providing a unique lens into the struggles of the country's past. It's a fitting book for anyone seeking to understand the human side of apartheid's legacy through the eyes of compelling, richly detailed characters.
Charming Billy
Alice McDermott | Delta Trade Paperbacks

Charming Billy

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.48

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

73% off est. retail
"Charming Billy" isn't just a book, it's a heartfelt journey through the intricacies of family lore, dashed hopes, and the ties that bind a community. With Alice McDermott's deft storytelling, you'll find yourself immersed in the tender, yet unflinching examination of the ripple effects one man's life—and death—can have. It's a story that stays with you, illuminating the strength and fragility of human connections. If you're drawn to tales told with lyrical prose and deep empathy, let "Charming Billy" be your next read.
The Commitments
Roddy Doyle | Vintage

The Commitments

Regular price $8.90 $6.90 22% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.93

Regular price $8.90 $6.90 22% off

Unit price
per

59% off est. retail
The Commitments is a great read for music lovers who enjoy stories of determined youth. The unique Irish setting and witty humor make for a fun and engaging experience. Readers will appreciate the characters' passion for music and their journey towards success.
Slumdog Millionaire
Vikas Swarup | Pocket Books

Slumdog Millionaire

$8.26

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$8.26

Unit price
per

Imagine life's grittiest moments teaching you the answers to a high-stakes quiz show. That's what Ram's story unfolds. "Slumdog Millionaire" draws you into a rags-to-riches tale with an unconventional twist. It's a vibrant tour of India’s intense class struggles, emotions, and serendipity that's both educational and uplifting. The book winnows through life's chaos with tales of pure resilience, making it a captivating read for those who love narratives where every hardship teaches a vital lesson.
You Deserve Nothing
Alexander Maksik | John Murray

You Deserve Nothing

Regular price $8.90 $6.90 22% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.56

Regular price $8.90 $6.90 22% off

Unit price
per

58% off est. retail
"You Deserve Nothing" is a gripping story that explores the relationship between Will, a charismatic teacher, and his students in an international high school in Paris. The book offers a unique perspective on the complexities of moral dilemmas faced by teachers and the coming of age experiences of their students. Readers will be captivated by the forbidden romance between Will and Marie, a story that is both alluring and deeply uncomfortable. It is an excellent read for anyone interested in exploring the boundaries between power, sexuality, and morality.
Mrs Zhivago of Queen's Park
Olivia Lichtenstein | Orion

Mrs Zhivago of Queen's Park

Regular price $8.90 $4.90 45% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 2.98

Regular price $8.90 $4.90 45% off

Unit price
per

71% off est. retail
If you're looking for a blend of humor and poignancy wrapped in a story of self-discovery, "Mrs Zhivago of Queen's Park" might just be your cup of tea. Imagine navigating through the complexities of modern relationships and finding what truly makes you tick. This book, with its engaging prose and relatable protagonist, offers a candid exploration that many find both entertaining and insightful.
The Human Stain - Thryft
Philip Roth | Vintage

The Human Stain

$7.39

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$7.39

Unit price
per

The Human Stain is a powerful commentary on the long-lasting effects of racism and society's obsession with sex and scandal. Through the lens of Coleman Silk's life, the reader is taken on a journey of self-discovery, discrimination, and the search for redemption. This book is perfect for those who enjoy complex characters and thought-provoking themes told through beautiful prose. It is a masterpiece that will leave you questioning the myths and realities of the American dream.
The Emperor's Children - Thryft

The Emperor's Children

Regular price $12.90 $3.90 70% off

Unit price
per

Regular price $12.90 $3.90 70% off

Unit price
per

90% off est. retail
This book is a captivating exploration of the intertwining lives of three friends in New York City. The author skillfully captures the complexities of ambition, friendship, and the pursuit of success. With its richly drawn characters and engrossing storyline, The Emperor's Children immerses readers in a world of glamour, self-discovery, and the consequences of unexpected decisions. A must-read for anyone seeking a beautifully observed novel that delves into the hopes, dreams, and challenges of a generation navigating adulthood in a fast-paced city.
The Alphabet Sisters - Thryft
Monica McInerney | Penguin Group Australia

The Alphabet Sisters

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.75

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

87% off est. retail
The Alphabet Sisters would be a great read for someone who enjoys heart-warming stories of family reconciliation. The book's unique and distinctive feature is its focus on sibling relationships, highlighting the complexities and beauty that come with familial bonds. The author, Monica McInerney, does a great job of drawing readers in with her relatable characters and vivid imagery. Overall, The Alphabet Sisters is a well-written and emotional tale of forgiveness and love.
Good Harbor - A Novel - Thryft
Anita Diamant | Scribner

Good Harbor - A Novel

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.29

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

83% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for someone who is looking for an emotional and uplifting story about the power of friendship during difficult times. Good Harbor is a beautifully written novel that explores the lives of two women who form an unlikely friendship while facing their own personal struggles. The book is particularly powerful in how it deals with the topic of cancer, showing a realistic portrayal of the challenges patients face, but also offering hope and optimism. Additionally, the novel has strong themes of creativity and the writing process, making it an excellent choice for anyone interested in literature and the arts. Overall, Good Harbor is a truly inspiring story that will leave readers feeling moved and empowered.
Weather: A Novel
Jenny Offill | Granta Books

Weather: A Novel

$8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.54

$8.90

Unit price
per

Weather is a unique novel that explores the impact of climate change and the limitations of human capabilities. Lizzie, a librarian, is hired to answer letters from individuals concerned about the decline of western civilization and climate change. Through this, Lizzie realizes the extent of what she can do to help others. This book is recommended for those interested in climate change and human resilience.
Use Me - Thryft
Elissa Schappell | Harper Perennial

Use Me

Regular price $6.90 $3.90 43% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.48

Regular price $6.90 $3.90 43% off

Unit price
per

84% off est. retail
"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.
Love and Misadventure
Lang Leav | Andrews Mcmeel Publishing

Love and Misadventure

$3.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$3.90

Unit price
per

84% off est. retail
Love & Misadventure could be a good read for those who have experienced the rollercoaster ride of love. Lang Leav's evocative poetry beautifully captures the complexities of love and heartbreak, taking readers on a personal yet universal journey. Her ability to express profound emotions in simple yet powerful words will resonate with anyone who has loved and lost. Prepare to be moved by the raw honesty and hope that shines through this collection.
S.
John Updike | Fawcett Crest

S.

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.35

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

64% off est. retail
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 Water-Method Man - Thryft
Irving John | Black Swan

The Water-Method Man

Regular price $7.90 $3.90 51% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.37

Regular price $7.90 $3.90 51% off

Unit price
per

83% off est. retail
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.
Cowboys Are My Weakness : Stories - Thryft
Pam Houston | Washington Square Press

Cowboys Are My Weakness : Stories

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.08

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

82% off est. retail
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 Curator - Thryft
Jacques Strauss | Vintage

The Curator

Regular price $9.90 $4.90 51% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.49

Regular price $9.90 $4.90 51% off

Unit price
per

72% off est. retail
Recommendation: "The Curator" could be a good read for anyone interested in a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of the consequences of a family massacre in rural South Africa. With a strong focus on the impact of the past on the present, this book delves into themes of obsession, family dynamics, and the search for redemption. Through its authentic portrayal of the country's history, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of life in South Africa.
Here and Beyond: 12 Stories
Cyril Wong | Ethos Books

Here and Beyond: 12 Stories

$8.26

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.64

$8.26

Unit price
per

Recommendation: This anthology of twelve stories from diverse Singaporean authors offers a captivating exploration of the human experience set against the backdrop of a bustling city. Each story delves into the emotional journeys of protagonists, from negotiating personal identities in a globalized world to contemplating the meaning of existence. Whether you seek realistic tales or surreal narratives, this collection promises to enchant and provoke introspection, making it a must-read for anyone interested in diverse voices and universal themes.
Brazzaville Beach
William Boyd | Penguin Canada

Brazzaville Beach

Regular price $10.90 $5.90 46% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.95

Regular price $10.90 $5.90 46% off

Unit price
per

67% off est. retail
If you're looking for a story that blends the excitement of scientific discovery with the depth of personal introspection, "Brazzaville Beach" will captivate you. The novel's intertwining of Hope Clearwater’s personal journey with the tumultuous politics of a corner of Africa offers a rich tapestry of conflict and contemplation. Boyd’s masterful narrative will make you ponder the complexities of life and our place in the world.
Love's Rough Journeys
David W.F. Wong | By Author

Love's Rough Journeys

$3.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 2.5

$3.90

Unit price
per

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.
My Idea of Fun: A Cautionary Tale
Will Self | Penguin Books

My Idea of Fun: A Cautionary Tale

$10.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.53

$10.90

Unit price
per

If you're drawn to stories that blend the macabre with biting satire, "My Idea of Fun" could intrigue you. Will Self delivers a tale that's as much about growing up as it is about the grotesque allure of mentorship gone awry. You might find it captivating how Self explores the darker sides of human desire and ambition through the eyes of a young, impressionable protagonist.
Moreover - Thryft
Miles Kington | Penguin Books, Limited

Moreover

Regular price $8.68 $3.90 55% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.0

Regular price $8.68 $3.90 55% off

Unit price
per

If you revel in the playfulness of language, "Moreover" is a treasure trove of wit and verbal ingenuity. Kington's dexterity with words will not only tickle your funny bone but also give your mind a delightful workout. This gem from 1983 remains a testament to the timeless pleasure of cleverly crafted language.
Ten Days in the Hills
Jane Smiley | Knopf

Ten Days in the Hills

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 2.56

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

85% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the interplay of personal stories against a backdrop of the glamorous yet often superficial world of Hollywood, "Ten Days In The Hills" could captivate you. Jane Smiley weaves a narrative that's both an escape and a mirror, reflecting real desires and complexities within relationships. It's like eavesdropping on a group of intriguing characters; each with their own cache of hopes, regrets, and ambitions coming alive amidst the tranquil yet ironically chaotic setting of the Hollywood hills.
The Girl With the Louding Voice
Abi Daré | Dutton

The Girl With the Louding Voice

$13.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.42

$13.90

Unit price
per

"The Girl with the Louding Voice" speaks volumes about resilience and empowerment, even in the face of adversity. It's a testament to the human spirit, showcasing Adunni’s journey as she navigates through societal challenges with unwavering determination. If you're looking for inspiration wrapped up in a moving story, Adunni's tale will not only pull at your heartstrings but also ignite a fire within to chase after your own dreams.
Yeonnam-Dong's Smiley Laundromat

$17.90

Unit price
per

If you ever long for a gentle reprieve from the rush of the modern world, "Yeonnam-Dong's Smiley Laundromat" might just be the sanctuary you need. With its heartwarming tales, it wraps you in a cozy blanket of simple joys and the subtle beauty found in daily life. It's like a quiet conversation with an old friend that leaves you feeling uplifted and refreshed.
About a Boy - Thryft
Nick Hornby | Penguin Books, Limited (uk)

About a Boy

$3.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.79

$3.90

Unit price
per

76% off est. retail
"About a Boy" by Nick Hornby is a must-read for anyone looking for a heartwarming story about an unlikely friendship. The story of Will, a carefree and wealthy man, and Marcus, an awkward and lonely 12-year-old boy, is both hilarious and heartwarming. Hornby's writing is witty and relatable, and he captures the essence of growing up and finding oneself with delightful precision. Fans of David Nicholls and Mike Gayle will love this book. Overall, "About a Boy" is a delightful read that will make you laugh, cry, and appreciate the power of friendship.
Pigeon English - Thryft
Stephen Kelman | Bloomsbury Publishing

Pigeon English

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.52

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

Product Description Eleven-year-old Harrison Opoku, the second best runner in Year 7, races through his new life in England with his personalised trainers - the Adidas stripes drawn on with marker pen - blissfully unaware of the very real threat around him. Newly-arrived from Ghana with his mother and older sister Lydia, Harri absorbs the many strange elements of city life, from the bewildering array of Haribo sweets, to the frightening, fascinating gang of older boys from his school. But his life is changed forever when one of his friends is murdered. As the victim's nearly new football boots hang in tribute on railings behind fluorescent tape and a police appeal draws only silence, Harri decides to act, unwittingly endangering the fragile web his mother has spun around her family to keep them safe. About the Author Stephen Kelman was born in Luton in 1976. After finishing his degree he worked variously as a warehouse operative, a careworker, and in marketing and local government administration. He decided to pursue his writing seriously in 2005, and has completed several feature screenplays since then. Pigeon English is his first novel; he is currently working on his second.
By the River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept

$8.90

Unit price
per

If you're in search of a story that delves into the depths of self-discovery, intertwining love with spiritual enlightenment, then Paulo Coelho's book could resonate deeply with you. It's a journey that promises not just an escape but an exploration of life's greater meaning through the lens of an old romance rekindled under mystic circumstances. Coelho's narrative weaves the mystical with the everyday, inviting you to question the boundaries of your own spiritual path.
Quarantine
Jim Crace | Farrar Straus Giroux

Quarantine

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.68

Regular price $8.90 $5.90 34% off

Unit price
per

"Quarantine" plunges you into an unforgiving historical landscape, interweaving the lives of its flawed yet compelling characters with the evocative power of Crace's prose. The book may resonate deeply if you're fascinated by human resilience and the existential struggles within historic spiritual settings. It's like embarking on a pilgrimage through the pages, one that promises to confront the very essence of faith and humanity.
The Finkler Question
Howard Jacobson | Bloomsbury

The Finkler Question

Regular price $8.90 $8.26 7% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 2.84

Regular price $8.90 $8.26 7% off

Unit price
per

68% off est. retail
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.
Something Special - Thryft
Iris Murdoch, Michael McCurdy  | Vintage

Something Special

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.03

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

85% off est. retail
If you enjoy tales that unearth the intricate dance between aspirations and the oft-hard lines of reality, "Something Special" might resonate deeply with you. Iris Murdoch's distinctive charm is woven throughout this narrative, capturing the essence of a young woman's longing for 'something more' amidst the cultural backdrop of 1950s Dublin. This short story, unique in Murdoch's oeuvre as it treads into the short form, provides an intimate gaze into a single, defining moment that brims with sly humor and a hint of melancholy.
The English Major
Jim Harrison | Grove Press

The English Major

Regular price $10.90 $7.90 28% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.61

Regular price $10.90 $7.90 28% off

Unit price
per

68% off est. retail
If you've ever felt like hitting the reset button on life, "The English Major" could be a companion for your own journey. Cliff's humorous and peculiar venture to rename the states offers a reflection on personal reinvention. It's a midlife crisis road trip wrapped in wry wit and a contemplative look at what it means to start over, making it especially relatable if you're in the mood for a tale about self-discovery and second chances.
River angel - Thryft
A. Manette Ansay | William Morrow

River angel

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.53

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

89% off est. retail
"River Angel" isn't just another book; it's a journey into the complexities of belief and the ways a single event can ripple through an entire community. If you're searching for a read that combines mystery with a deep dive into human relationships and spirituality, A. Manette Ansay's nuanced treatment of these themes will surely captivate you. It's for anyone looking to ponder the presence of miracles in our modern world.
J.M. Coetzee

Elizabeth Costello

$12.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.48

$12.90

Unit price
per

If you savor narratives that are as thought-provoking as they are eloquent, "Elizabeth Costello" is a book that will resonate with you. Coetzee's masterful storytelling emerges through speeches that delve deep into the protagonist's experiences, providing a reflective and often haunting insight into the art of storytelling itself. It's a novel for those who appreciate layers of meaning and the complexities of a writer's existence.
Money for Nothing - Thryft

Money for Nothing

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

84% off est. retail
If you're looking for a delightful escape, "Money For Nothing" offers a jaunt into classic Wodehouse wit. The tangled misadventures of its vibrant cast will charm you with humor that transcends time. It's the British comedy of errors that you didn't know you needed, complete with quirky aristocrats and shrewd schemers.
Safety - Thryft
Tegan Bennett Daylight | Vintage

Safety

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.07

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

86% off est. retail
"Safety" is a gripping novel that explores the complexities of love and its devastating consequences. Tegan Bennett Daylight portrays the insecurities and vulnerability of young adulthood with deft touches and a keen eye. Readers will be drawn to the relatable characters and their struggles with relationships and self-worth. The unique quality of this book is its powerful portrayal of the "safety" that individuals often seek in relationships and the unforeseen dangers that can arise. Anyone looking for an emotionally charged novel about love and its complexities will enjoy "Safety".
Our Fathers
Andrew O'Hagan | Faber And Faber Ltd.

Our Fathers

Regular price $8.90 $4.90 45% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.59

Regular price $8.90 $4.90 45% off

Unit price
per

"Our Fathers" by Andrew O'Hagan would resonate with you if you're drawn to the complex weave of family legacies against a backdrop of societal change. It's not just a narrative; it's a deep dive into the Scottish psyche, the clash between old and new, and the personal introspection that comes with caring for a dying relative with a storied past. This book wraps you in the poignancy of reflecting on both personal and national identity, with prose that's as mesmerizing as the land of Scotland itself.
Wish You Were Here
Jodi Picoult | Hodder & Stoughton

Wish You Were Here

$5.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$5.90

Unit price
per

82% off est. retail
If this past year has left you reflecting on the unexpected turns life can take and the beauty in finding oneself amidst chaos, Jodi Picoult's "Wish You Were Here" could resonate with you. It's an evocative exploration of our times, wrapped in a story that promises both the warmth of humanity and the thrill of unforeseen adventure. Picoult's narrative could offer you a companionable mirror to your own thoughts and feelings about these uncertain times.
Second Chances - Thryft
Martina Reilly | Sphere

Second Chances

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.42

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

Unit price
per

88% off est. retail
"Second Chances" explores the complicated nature of forgiveness when confronted with past tragedy. Martina Reilly's novel is a heartfelt exploration of the emotional healing that can take place when we confront our past traumas and find the strength to let them go. Highly recommended for readers seeking a poignant and emotional read that isn't afraid to tackle tough themes head-on.
Memories of the Ford Administration
John Updike | Gardners

Memories of the Ford Administration

Regular price $8.90 $4.90 45% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.3

Regular price $8.90 $4.90 45% off

Unit price
per

If you're keen on political history with a twist of personal narrative, John Updike's "Memories of the Ford Administration" could pique your interest. Updike provides a deep dive into the turbulence of the '70s, yet serves it with a side of intimate confessions and human frailties that could make you reflect on the often blurred lines between our public and private lives. It's a thought-provoking read that combines the political with the personal in a way only Updike can.
Love Me - Thryft
Garrison Keillor | Faber & Faber

Love Me

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.22

Regular price $5.90 $3.90 34% off

Unit price
per

71% off est. retail
Recommendation: "Love Me" is a heart-warming tale of a writer's journey to get back on track with his passion for writing. The protagonist's transition to a newspaper column gives the reader humor and an interesting twist, making it a great read for anyone who is looking for a light, romantic comedy with a unique plot.
Until I Find You - Thryft
John Irving | Bloomsbury Publishing Plc.

Until I Find You

Regular price $6.90 $3.90 43% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.66

Regular price $6.90 $3.90 43% off

Unit price
per

95% off est. retail
Until I Find You could be a good read for someone who enjoys complex family dynamics and coming-of-age tales. The book uniquely explores the search for a missing parent and the influence of relationships with older women on the protagonist's life. John Irving's rich detail and emotional depth are pervasive throughout the book, making it a recommended read for those who appreciate such writing styles.
In the Garden of North American Martyrs
Tobias Wolff | Ecco Pr

In the Garden of North American Martyrs

$8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$8.90

Unit price
per

Tobias Wolff's mastery at painting life's complexities in short sharp bursts makes "In the Garden of North American Martyrs" a compelling read. Each story offers a unique glimpse into the human condition, revealing our shared vulnerabilities and moments of quiet desperation. If you intrigue on the subtleties of human behavior under duress, these stories might just echo long after you turn the last page.
All Families Are Psychotic
Douglas Coupland | Flamingo

All Families Are Psychotic

Regular price $8.90 $6.90 22% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.7

Regular price $8.90 $6.90 22% off

Unit price
per

Imagine sitting down to a family reunion, and instead of the usual small talk, you're swept up in a hurricane of hilarity, heartbreak, and the wildest drama you can imagine. That's "All Families Are Psychotic" for you. Coupland crafts a story that weaves together the outrageous with the intimately relatable, allowing you to laugh and gasp in equal measure while nodding along at the truth of his observations. It's dysfunction served with a side of love, reminding us that no family is perfect but in the craziness lies a peculiar strength.
Last Night In Twisted River - A Novel - Thryft

Last Night In Twisted River - A Novel

Regular price $7.90 $3.90 51% off

Unit price
per

Regular price $7.90 $3.90 51% off

Unit price
per

87% off est. retail
This book would be a great read for anyone who enjoys thrilling and heartwarming stories. Last Night in Twisted River takes you on a journey through 1950s New Hampshire to Toronto, following the lives of a father and son who become fugitives. The author's voice shines through, captivating readers with his storytelling skills. With its unique storyline and unforgettable characters, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression.
White Lightning
Justin Cartwright | Sceptre

White Lightning

Regular price $8.90 $4.90 45% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.48

Regular price $8.90 $4.90 45% off

Unit price
per

"White Lightning" isn't just a story, it's an introspective odyssey. As a motorcycle messenger embarks on a journey of self-discovery through painting his bike, you'll be drawn into his poignant recollections of love, loss, and the persistent quest for meaning. Cartwright's narrative offers a novel glimpse at Englishness with humor, sharp insight, and a touch of the exotic. If you appreciate tales that grapple with the essence of life, this book could be a compelling companion for your own contemplations.

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.