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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The State We're In: Maine Stories - Thryft
Ann Beattie | Scribner

The State We're In: Maine Stories

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Goodreads rating: 3.02

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If you're drawn to complex characters and the intricacies of human relationships, 'The State We're In' could be your next great read. Ann Beattie's mastery of the short form shines through as she interweaves tales of women at different life stages, all linked by the setting of Maine. It's not just about place; it's a deep dive into personal narratives that shape our perceptions and emotional landscapes. Perfect for those who appreciate the subtleties of story-telling and the profound truths hidden in seemingly mundane interactions.
Home Safe
Elizabeth Berg | Random House

Home Safe

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Goodreads rating: 3.52

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If you've ever faced the daunting task of rebuilding your life after a significant loss, Elizabeth Berg's "Home Safe" will resonate with you. Berg has a gentle way of infusing warmth and relatable characters into her narrative, making you feel less alone in your journey. It's more than a story; it's a friend who understands the complexities of the heart.
Our Gang
Philip Roth | Jonathan Cape

Our Gang

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Goodreads rating: 3.38

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"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.
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.
Seven Types of Ambiguity
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Elliot Perlman | Faber

Seven Types of Ambiguity

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Goodreads rating: 4.01

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If you appreciate novels that aren't just tales but journeys through the human psyche, "Seven Types of Ambiguity" might just captivate you. Perlman's skillful intertwining of perspectives envelops you in a web of emotional and intellectual intricacies. It's a novel where the richness of character depth and the philosophical musings on modern life are as stimulating as the plot twists themselves. This book could be a gem for someone who delights in a substantial, thought-provoking read that lingers long after the last page is turned.
Music for Torching - Thryft
A.M. Homes | Granta Books

Music for Torching

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Goodreads rating: 3.7

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"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.
Great Circle
Maggie Shipstead | Doubleday

Great Circle

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Goodreads rating: 4.11

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If you're drawn to stories of bold adventures and complex, trailblazing characters, "Great Circle" is a journey you shouldn't miss. Through Marian Graves' life, which arcs like the flight path she's determined to conquer, you'll experience a poignant quest for freedom. Spanning eras and intertwining with Hadley Baxter's modern-day Hollywood, the novel invites you on an exploration of ambition and identity that resonates long after the final page.
The Spinning Heart
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Ryan Donal | Black Swan

The Spinning Heart

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Goodreads rating: 3.92

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"The Spinning Heart" resonates like a familiar tune hummed in the streets of Ireland. You'll find yourself wrapped in the intimate struggles of a town grappling with identity amidst economic fallout, each character's voice adding depth to the collective story. Donal Ryan's prose is a blend of dark humor and poignant tenderness that echoes long after the final page is turned.
East Fortune - Thryft
James Runcie | Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

East Fortune

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Goodreads rating: 3.61

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"East Fortune" offers an insightful and tender look into the lives of three brothers who confront life's unexpected turns. It's a relatable exploration of aging, identity, and the complexity of familial relationships. If you've ever felt at a crossroads or sought to understand the weave of luck and choice in shaping life, this book resonates with those themes beautifully. James Runcie's storytelling will draw you into the poignant reality of the Henderson brothers, which might mirror your own reflections on life.
Caramelo
Sandra Cisneros | Bloomsbury

Caramelo

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Goodreads rating: 3.93

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Caramelo is a treasure for anyone who appreciates storytelling that weaves family legacies with cultural tapestries. Sandra Cisneros paints a vibrant portrait of the Reyes family's yearly pilgrimage from Chicago to Mexico City, filled with sensory details that make you feel part of the journey. Her rich characters, especially the perspective of curious Lala, bring to life the complexities and colors of Mexican-American identity and heritage. If you're looking to get lost in a story that feels both intimate and grand, Caramelo promises to wrap you in its narrative like the treasured rebozo at its heart.
Lillian on Life
Alison Jean Lester | G.p. Putnam's Sons

Lillian on Life

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Goodreads rating: 3.46

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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.
Rituals - Thryft
Cees Nooteboom | Harvill Pr

Rituals

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Goodreads rating: 3.66

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If you're drawn to books that weave philosophical musings with everyday life, "Rituals" might captivate you. Cees Nooteboom's writing gracefully bridges the gap between the mundane and the profound, as it dissects the routines that give shape to existence. It's like peeling back the layers of ordinary activities to reveal the existential questions they're quietly asking.
Moses Ascending
Sam Selvon | Penguin

Moses Ascending

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Goodreads rating: 3.46

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"Moses Ascending" offers a relatable narrative packed with wit that unearths the complex layers of the immigrant experience. Selvon masterfully captures the cultural nuances and struggles that are as relevant today as they were back then, making it a timeless reflection on the pursuit of dreams amidst adversity. If you're keen on understanding the immigrant psyche with a blend of humor and reality, this is a book that delivers on all fronts.
Blessings - Thryft
Anna Quindlen | Random House

Blessings

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Goodreads rating: 3.63

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This book is a heartwarming story about the power of community and the unexpected paths life can take. The unique appeal of "Blessings" lies in its exploration of the secrets of the past and how they shape the present. You'll be captivated by the beautifully crafted characters and their journeys of personal change. Anna Quindlen's masterful storytelling will leave you reflecting on the meaning of family and the choices that define us. Get ready for a touching and thought-provoking read that will warm your heart and remind you of the importance of love and forgiveness.
Oscar and Lucinda
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Peter Carey | Faber Faber Ltd

Oscar and Lucinda

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Goodreads rating: 3.73

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"Oscar and Lucinda" is a tale that will transport you to the 19th-century seascape bridging England and Australia, entangling you in a deeply human story of passion, ambition, and the complexities of faith and love. It's not just the historical details that will captivate you, but the sheer unpredictability of Oscar and Lucinda's journey, both physical and emotional, that renders this book a classic. If you enjoy vivid historical settings combined with intricate human relationships, this might just be your next favorite read.
Terrorist
John Updike | Penguin Books

Terrorist

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Goodreads rating: 3.17

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If contemporary social issues intrigue you, "Terrorist" by John Updike may just be the riveting yet profound read you're looking for. This novel carries you into the depths of a young man's transformation, encapsulated by Updike's signature beautiful prose. As much as it is a tale of one's path to extremism, it's also a subtle exploration of the society that serves as the backdrop for such a journey.
Testimony : A Novel - Thryft
Anita Shreve | Little, Brown And Company

Testimony : A Novel

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Goodreads rating: 3.58

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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.
Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage
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If you've ever felt adrift in your own life, as if the anchors of friendship and certainty have slipped away, Murakami's "Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki" explores this terrain with a delicate mix of melancholy and mystery. There's something haunting about Tsukuru's quest to understand his past, and the narrative takes you deep into the intricacies of human relationships. This book isn’t just a story; it’s an experience, weaving the abstract and the concrete, the magical and the mundane, into a tapestry that might just resemble the complexities of your own life.
The House of Sleep
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Jonathan Coe | Penguin Books

The House of Sleep

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Goodreads rating: 3.94

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"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.
Selected Stories - Thryft
José Y. Dalisay Jr. | The University Of The Philippines Press

Selected Stories

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Goodreads rating: 3.11

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This book would be a great read for anyone interested in exploring the diverse nuances of Filipino life and culture. Through the masterful storytelling of Jose Y. Dalisay Jr., each story captures a unique snapshot of different aspects of Filipino society. From the struggles of everyday people to the complexities of relationships and the impact of historical events, these stories offer a rich and immersive experience. The author's writing style is both vivid and thought-provoking, making this collection a must-read for those who enjoy exploring different cultures through literature.
American Wife - Thryft
Curtis Sittenfeld | Black Swan

American Wife

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Goodreads rating: 3.77

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If you're drawn to stories of personal conflict and political intrigue, "American Wife" could be a compelling read for you. This book dives into the life of a woman thrust into the spotlight, challenging her beliefs and her marriage. The character of Alice Blackwell offers a deeply nuanced perspective that resonates with the real-life complexity of being closely linked to power, making it a thought-provoking experience that might echo with your own views on identity and personal agency.
The Association of Small Bombs - Thryft
Karan Mahajan | Vintage

The Association of Small Bombs

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Goodreads rating: 3.57

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This book could be a gem for you if the human side of tragic events intrigues you. Karan Mahajan delves deep into the psyche of terrorism's aftermath, not just on victims, but on the perpetrators as well. The narrative is fearless and empathetic, making "The Association of Small Bombs" a profound read that addresses the complexities of political violence and its far-reaching consequences. It could change the way you perceive the news, empathy, and justice.
The Gathering
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Anne Enright | Vintage Books

The Gathering

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Goodreads rating: 3.12

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"The Gathering" might just resonate with you if the dynamics of family and the intricacies of past events unfolding in the present intrigue you. Through Enright's gifted storytelling, you'll explore themes of love, disappointment, and the inescapable nature of family bonds. It's a journey through generational secrets with prose that's as haunting as it is beautiful—an Irish tale that feels both traditional and innovative.
Serious Men - Thryft
Manu Joseph | Harper Collins

Serious Men

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Goodreads rating: 3.77

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"Serious Men" will resonate with anyone who's ever felt stuck in life, dreaming of something greater. Manu Joseph manages to weave humor and poignancy to tell the story of Ayyan Mani, a man whose schemes of breaking free from societal chains are as audacious as they are entertaining. This book might just make you laugh, think, and root for an underdog who's playing a high-stakes game.
Until I Find You - Thryft
John Irving | Ballantine Books

Until I Find You

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Goodreads rating: 3.66

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I would not recommend this book to any user as it lacks any redeeming qualities. The plot is dull, the repetitive story arc is unoriginal, and the characters are uninteresting. The author tries to create amusing aspects but fails miserably resulting in a tedious read. Steer clear!
Mrs Zhivago of Queen's Park
Olivia Lichtenstein | Orion

Mrs Zhivago of Queen's Park

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Goodreads rating: 2.98

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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.
A Cannibal in Manhattan - Thryft
Tama Janowitz | Picador

A Cannibal in Manhattan

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Goodreads rating: 3.23

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You might find "A Cannibal in Manhattan" to be a wildly entertaining satire that cleverly flips the script on what we consider "civilized" versus "primitive". Through Mgungu's eye-opening experiences in New York, the book pokes fun at both the simplicity of island life and the absurd complexities of urban high society. If you enjoy a narrative that marvels and mocks at the same time, this novel's sharp wit and social commentary will not disappoint.
The Rum Diary
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Hunter S. Thompson | Scribner / Simon & Schuster

The Rum Diary

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Goodreads rating: 3.84

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Dive into Thompson's early work with 'The Rum Diary,' which offers a gritty, evocative glance into the debauched life of a young journalist in Puerto Rico. It's a wild ride blending romance and corruption, sure to resonate if you appreciate vivid storytelling with a heavy dose of hedonism and an unfiltered view into the human psyche.
Pure
Andrew Miller | Sceptre

Pure

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Goodreads rating: 3.6

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"Pure" transports you to the brink of the French Revolution. Imagine walking through Paris as it balances on the edge of monumental change, with a story that encapsulates the transformation of the era. Through the eyes of Jean-Baptiste Baratte, you'll engage with a narrative that's as much about the physical task of clearing Les Innocents as it is about the societal decay. It cleverly interweaves personal struggle, societal upheaval, and the poignant reminder that progress often comes with a price. If you're intrigued by historical fiction that digs deep into the undercurrents of change, this is a thought-provoking journey you wouldn't want to miss.
The Final Testament of the Holy Bible
James Frey | John Murray Publishers

The Final Testament of the Holy Bible

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Goodreads rating: 3.77

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If you're someone who thrives on provocative literature that blurs the lines between sacrilege and sincerity, "The Final Testament of the Holy Bible" is an audacious choice. James Frey's narrative might shake your core beliefs and challenge the boundaries of conventional spirituality. You may find its unorthodox portrayal of a contemporary Messiah both jarring and enlightening, offering a fresh lens on faith in the modern world.
The Guy Not Taken
Jennifer Weiner | Atria Books

The Guy Not Taken

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Goodreads rating: 3.48

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If you've ever caught yourself pondering the 'what-ifs' of love and life, Jennifer Weiner's "The Guy Not Taken" might resonate deeply with you. Each story weaves through the complex tapestry of human relationships, using humor and pathos that speaks to the heart. You will find yourself in the shoes of characters that feel remarkably real, as they navigate the nuances of love, loss, and the pivotal moments that define their lives. This book could be a delightful journey for anyone who cherishes stories that reflect our shared human experiences with a tender touch.
Veronika Decides to Die
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If you've ever felt like something essential is missing despite having it all, "Veronika Decides to Die" might resonate deeply with you. Paulo Coelho's storytelling magic takes you on a journey with Veronika that is as much about societal norms and mental health as it is about the personal quest for meaning in life. It's a thought-provoking read that can change your perspective on what it means to truly live, challenging the fine line between insanity and insight.
Bolinas - Thryft
Thomas M. Barron | Garbage Wagon

Bolinas

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Goodreads rating: 4.36

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Bolinas is a page-turner for mystery lovers, with a plot that keeps readers guessing until the end. The unique small-town setting and unusual characters add to the book's appeal.
In Between the Sheets - Thryft
Ian McEwan | Vintage

In Between the Sheets

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Goodreads rating: 3.29

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"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.
Everything I Don't Remember
Jonas Hassen Khemiri | Scribner Uk

Everything I Don't Remember

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Goodreads rating: 3.73

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If you're drawn to stories that challenge the conventional narrative and offer a puzzle you feel compelled to solve, "Everything I Don't Remember" is a fascinating pick. You'll be immersed in an inquisitive journey, piecing together the life and mysterious death of a young man. It's a mix of investigative prose, engaging wit, and deep reflection on how we remember people, perfect for readers who love a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant whodunit.
Stern Men - Thryft
Elizabeth Gilbert | Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Stern Men

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Goodreads rating: 3.45

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Stern Men is a heartwarming tale of a young girl's journey to find her place in a small fishing community in Maine. The book beautifully portrays the intense and often savage nature of the fishing industry while weaving in themes of love and unlikely friendships. Elizabeth Gilbert's unique and engaging writing style brings this unforgettable story to life and makes it a must-read for anyone looking for a charming and heartwarming tale of life on the coast.
Jasmine - Thryft
Bharati Mukherjee | Virago

Jasmine

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Goodreads rating: 3.47

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"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.
Western Lane
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Chetna Maroo | Picador

Western Lane

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Goodreads rating: 3.5

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Empty string
Bernice Bobs Her Hair and Other Stories
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F. Scott Fitzgerald | Penguin

Bernice Bobs Her Hair and Other Stories

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Goodreads rating: 3.92

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For lovers of the Roaring Twenties and its complexities, Fitzgerald's "Bernice Bobs Her Hair and Other Stories" delivers that coveted glimpse into the era's social mores, its youthful rebellion, and the poignant undercurrents of ambition and desire. Diving into these stories is like stepping into a perfectly aged photograph, where the sepia tones are brightened by Fitzgerald's perceptive and beautifully crafted storytelling.
The Chemistry of Tears
Peter Carey | Faber & Faber

The Chemistry of Tears

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Goodreads rating: 2.96

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If you're into stories that blend the poignancy of loss with the intricacies of clockwork, "The Chemistry of Tears" is a compelling pick for you. Peter Carey masterfully mixes the story of a grieving horologist with the historical tale of an automaton, creating a layered narrative that speaks to the heart and the imagination. It's an exquisite exploration of how we seek solace and meaning amidst the machinery of life and death.
The Reluctant Fundamentalist
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Mohsin Hamid | Mariner Books

The Reluctant Fundamentalist

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Goodreads rating: 3.73

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In stock: Very Good

"The Reluctant Fundamentalist" is a compelling narrative that takes you on a journey through the complexities of identity and the immigrant experience. Mohsin Hamid's storytelling, framed as a conversation in a Lahore cafe, offers a perspective not often found in Western literature. The novel's introspective dive into the protagonist's life before and after a world-changing event will resonate if you're intrigued by themes of belonging, love, and cultural divide.
The Hundred Secret Senses
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Amy Tan | Harper Perennial

The Hundred Secret Senses

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Goodreads rating: 4.0

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The way Amy Tan weaves the spiritual with the everyday makes "The Hundred Secret Senses" quite compelling. It's not just a story about sisters or family dynamics; it's about how the past, and sometimes even the supernatural, can shape our lives in ways we don't expect. Kwan’s unfaltering belief in the supernatural, set against Olivia’s desire for normalcy, creates a fascinating contrast that could deeply resonate with anyone who's grappled with family differences and the search for self-understanding.
The Widower
Ray Kluun, Kluun  | Pan Macmillan

The Widower

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Goodreads rating: 3.24

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"The Widower" might resonate with you if you've ever faced immense loss and found yourself adrift, seeking solace in transient escapes. Kluun doesn't just recount a story of grief; he delves into the chaotic process of finding a new normal when your world has been irrevocably altered. Dan's raw and relatable odyssey—geographical and emotional—could offer a profound sense of companionship and understanding to anyone navigating their own sea of grief.
The Transit of Venus - Thryft
Shirley Hazzard | Viking

The Transit of Venus

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Goodreads rating: 4.0

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"The Transit of Venus" stands as a profound exploration of relationships and mortality, carried by Hazzard's exquisite prose. It's a book that immerses you in the lives of its characters, and their complex emotional landscapes will resonate deeply. The novel's timeless themes and intricate narrative structure make it an engrossing read for those who appreciate literary depth and elegance.
The Quarry
Iain Banks | Hachette

The Quarry

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Goodreads rating: 3.61

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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.
The Travelling Tea Shop
Belinda Jones | Hodder & Stoughton

The Travelling Tea Shop

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Goodreads rating: 3.65

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Imagine a road trip with a twist of sweetness, both in the company you keep and the treats you bake. "The Travelling Tea Shop" is a delightful mix of culinary adventure, the complexities of family dynamics, and the unexpected ingredients of love. It's as comforting as your favorite dessert, with enough heart to satisfy anyone looking for both warmth and a dash of escapism. If you’ve got a taste for food-inspired stories and cross-country journeys, you'll find this book a recipe for joy.
The Fountainhead
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Leonard Peikoff, Ayn Rand  | Signet Book

The Fountainhead

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Goodreads rating: 3.88

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"The Fountainhead" might just change the way you think about individualism and creativity. It's a deep dive into the philosophy of Objectivism but woven through the intricate lives of compelling characters. If you enjoy novels that challenge societal norms and celebrate the strength of human spirit, Ayn Rand's portrayal of Howard Roark as the epitome of principled living against all odds could be inspiring. This isn't just a story; it's a manifesto for those who dare to dream and do differently.
Youth
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J.M. Coetzee | Vintage

Youth

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Goodreads rating: 3.78

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"Youth" by J. M. Coetzee is a deeply intimate portrayal of a young man grappling with his aspirations and the stark reality of life. As you dive into the protagonist's introspective journey from South Africa to London, you might find echoes of your own search for meaning amidst the chaos of adulthood. The novel's clear, poignant prose and the relentless quest for artistic and personal authenticity could resonate with anyone who's ever felt adrift in their formative years.
Uncommon Type
Tom Hanks | Dutton

Uncommon Type

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Goodreads rating: 3.43

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If you're charmed by Tom Hanks's on-screen presence, imagine how his creativity translates into writing. "Uncommon Type" is a mosaic of America, its quirks, and its humanity, with Hanks's wit and heart stringing each story together. It's perfect for anyone who enjoys narratives that feel both grand and intimate, familiar yet wondrous.
A Long Way Down
Nick Hornby | Penguin Books

A Long Way Down

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Goodreads rating: 3.44

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Nick Hornby’s "A Long Way Down" could be a match for you if you appreciate stories that blend wit with weightier themes. It's not just a novel—it's a raw, sometimes uncomfortably humorous look at life, choices, and the not-so-simple act of living. The balance of Hornby's humor with moments of sincere reflection could make you ponder your perspectives just as much as it entertains you.

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.