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 School Run - Thryft
Sophie King | Hodder & Stoughton Paperbacks

The School Run

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Goodreads rating: 3.41

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69% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for someone who enjoys stories with multiple characters and plotlines that intersect. The School Run offers a compelling drama that explores the interconnectedness of different people's lives. With a diverse mix of characters, readers can relate to their struggles and find themselves invested in how their individual stories will converge.
A Woman Of Bangkok - Thryft
Jack Reynolds | Editions Duang Kamol/d.k. Book House

A Woman Of Bangkok

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Goodreads rating: 3.59

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This book can be a good read for those interested in exploring the hidden and intriguing aspects of Bangkok's culture and society. With a raw and honest narrative, the authors reveal the true story of a woman in Bangkok and her tumultuous life. The unique selling point of this book is the candid nature of the story, which is often shocking and eye-opening. Readers will appreciate the vivid and detailed depictions of different parts of the city, as well as the emotional depth of the characters.
One For My Baby By Tony Parsons - Thryft

One For My Baby By Tony Parsons

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This book is a poignant tale of a father's deep love and bond with his child. The emotional journey and struggles of parenthood are beautifully depicted in this novel, making it a great read for anyone who appreciates heartfelt stories of love and family.
Debt to Pleasure
John Lanchester | Picador

Debt to Pleasure

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Goodreads rating: 3.74

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Imagine savoring an exquisitely prepared meal, each bite leading you deeper into a labyrinth of rich flavors and enigmatic reflections. "Debt to Pleasure" isn't just a feast for the palate; it's a banquet for the mind, artfully blending gastronomy with a tale that's as seductive as it is intellectually stimulating. If you have an appetite for eloquent prose and savory satire, this book promises to be a uniquely satisfying indulgence.
The Mother - Bertolt Brecht - Thryft
Bertolt Brecht | Grove Press

The Mother - Bertolt Brecht

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Goodreads rating: 3.6

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"The Mother" isn't just a piece of theatre; it's a gateway to historical and revolutionary consciousness. Brecht spins the tale of a simple working-class woman who becomes an emblem of change and hope amid the tumult of a Bolshevik revolution. For anyone interested in the intersection of personal growth and political upheaval or the potency of a mother’s love in the face of societal transformation, this book is a must-read.
Winnowing Memories

Winnowing Memories

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If you're intrigued by the transformation of education in Singapore, "Winnowing Memories" offers an intimate exploration. Reading this book is like walking through history with a learned guide. Lim Siew Yea's personal touch will make you appreciate the milestones that have shaped Singapore's gifted education system.
Transcendent Kingdom
Yaa Gyasi | Penguin

Transcendent Kingdom

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Goodreads rating: 4.1

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"Transcendent Kingdom" dives deep into the complexities of family, science, and faith. If you're seeking a raw and honest portrayal of the American immigrant experience and the impacts of addiction, this could be a stirring and poignant read for you. Yaa Gyasi's narrative is powerful in its exploration of grief and the quest for understanding – something that deeply resonates with anyone who has grappled with the aftermath of loss and the pursuit of purpose amidst chaos.
Welcome To The World Baby Girl - Thryft
Fannie Flagg | Vintage

Welcome To The World Baby Girl

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Goodreads rating: 3.91

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Welcome to the World, Baby Girl! is a heartfelt story of Dena Nordstrom, a young TV interviewer, who battles emotional struggles while navigating the ups and downs of the media industry. Fannie Flagg's witty writing style shines through the unforgettable cast of characters, making this a page-turner till the end. Highly recommended for those interested in the media industry or anyone looking for a heartwarming read.
Man in the Dark - Thryft

Man in the Dark

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Recommendation: "Man in the Dark" is a thought-provoking book that delves into the depths of a troubled mind, weaving together a haunting parallel reality and the painful aftermath of personal tragedy. Through the eyes of August Brill, this novel forces you to question the boundaries between imagination and reality, while navigating the complexities of grief and the power of storytelling. Auster's masterful prose will keep you engrossed until the very last page, leaving you contemplating the nature of existence and the healing power of human connection.
Eleven Minutes
Paulo Coelho | Harpercollinspublishers

Eleven Minutes

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Goodreads rating: 3.72

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If you're the kind of reader who appreciates the bold exploration of human emotions and sexuality through a narrative that's both provocative and enlightening, "Eleven Minutes" might be the book for you. Paulo Coelho takes you on an intense journey with Maria, challenging conventional perceptions of love and pleasure. It's an invitation to reflect on your own inner light and darkness, wrapped in the candid storytelling Coelho is celebrated for.
Desperate Characters - Thryft

Desperate Characters

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If you're hankering for a nuanced character study set against a backdrop of social decay, "Desperate Characters" might just be your next great read. Paula Fox's sharp prose cuts deep into the facade of a seemingly stable life, revealing the quiet desperation that can lurk beneath the surface of comfort and routine. It's a poignant reflection on personal and societal disintegration that still resonates today.
The Emperor
Ahmed Essop | Ravan Press

The Emperor

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Goodreads rating: 0.0

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Essop's "The Emperor" offers a profound look into the dynamics of power and the inevitability of change, set against a South African background. If you're interested in the interplay of political and personal narratives, this book will resonate with you. It's a unique lens on authority and revolution, infused with local color and context.
Whit, or, Isis Amongst the Unsaved
Iain Banks | Abacus

Whit, or, Isis Amongst the Unsaved

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Goodreads rating: 3.86

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"Whit, or, Isis Amongst the Unsaved" takes you along with Isis as she navigates the complexities of maintaining religious faith in an increasingly secular society. It's a perfect read for those who are intrigued by the intersection of tradition and contemporary life, and the personal challenges that come with upholding one's beliefs amidst societal indifference. The book's exploration of identity, community, and the struggle for spiritual meaning will resonate deeply, especially if you appreciate thought-provoking narratives with a strong, yet nuanced, lead character.
The Lake Shore Limited
Sue Miller | Bloomsbury

The Lake Shore Limited

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Goodreads rating: 3.37

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"The Lake Shore Limited" speaks to the part of us that ponders the 'what ifs' of our lives. It delves into the complexity of grief and the intricacies of human relationships with a delicate touch. Sue Miller's craftsmanship in weaving together different narratives around a central theme is both poignant and thought-proving. If you're in search of a story that captures the heartache of loss and the beauty of human connections, this could be a compelling choice for your next read.
The Perfect Story - Thryft
Low Kay Hwa | Goody Books Pte Ltd

The Perfect Story

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Goodreads rating: 4.04

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"The Perfect Story" resonates with anyone who appreciates the intense, often isolating pursuit of artistic creation. It delves deep into the psyche of a writer willing to surrender to his craft entirely. If you've ever been captivated by the dedication it takes to create something truly remarkable, you'll find this exploration of obsession and the blurred lines between reality and fiction both unsettling and fascinating.
Scottish Girls About Town - Thryft
Various | Gardners Books

Scottish Girls About Town

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Goodreads rating: 3.53

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Scottish Girls About Town is a must-read for anyone who loves short stories with a bite. The tales are saucy, sharp and showcase a fantastic range of voices from some of Scotland's most talented writers. You'll be taken on a rollercoaster of emotions from the hilarious to the heart-breaking. With one pound from every copy sold going to charity, you can feel good about indulging in this guilty pleasure!
Love and Garbage
Ivan Klíma | Penguin Group

Love and Garbage

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Goodreads rating: 3.67

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"Love and Garbage" offers a profound rumination on personal and political conflicts. It's a novel that delves into the complexities of love, art, and freedom under a repressive regime. If you're intrigued by the intersection of the intimate and the political, and if you enjoy narratives that reflect on the human condition and the challenges it faces, this book could resonate deeply with you. It's for readers who appreciate introspective storytelling with a backdrop of historical significance.
The Bone People
Keri Hulme | Picador

The Bone People

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Goodreads rating: 4.04

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"The Bone People" offers you a profound narrative journey, one that explores deep emotional landscapes and the intricacies of human relationships. It's a thought-provoking read for those who appreciate cultural depth and character-driven stories. The raw emotion, poetic prose, and cultural insights will linger with you long after the final page. If you seek a novel that delves into the complexities of the human spirit and the clash of cultures with a haunting beauty, this is it.
How the Dead Live - Thryft
Will Self | Penguin Books

How the Dead Live

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Goodreads rating: 3.58

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"How the Dead Live" isn't your typical ghost story; it's for those who like their supernatural laced with acid satire. Will Self takes you on a bizarre journey through an afterlife full of as much, if not more, vibrancy and vulgarity as life itself. If you appreciate a narrative that challenges the norms with sharp humor, Lily Bloom's post-mortem adventures are sure to entertain and provoke thought.
The Gathering
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.
Dear Reader
David Bellos, Paul Fournel  | Pushkin Collection

Dear Reader

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Goodreads rating: 3.47

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If you find yourself chuckling at the peculiarities of the literary world, "Dear Reader" is a treasure trove of wit that will resonate with you. Blending the nostalgia of old publishing with the digital shake-up, it treats the industry's evolution with humor and heart. Imagine lifting the curtain to peek backstage of the book world—this read does it with a wink and a smile.
The Ocean Of Ambition - Thryft

The Ocean Of Ambition

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If you're someone who appreciates poetry that finds the profound in the everyday, "The Ocean Of Ambition" could speak to you. Koh Buck Song captures everyday moments and magnifies their significance, gently nudging you to consider the wider picture of our ambitions and the small wonders we overlook in our pursuit of them. It's a reminder to observe, reflect, and find meaning in the simple things, which, in today's fast-paced world, could be just the respite you need.
Freedom
Jonathan Franzen | Fisicalbook

Freedom

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Goodreads rating: 3.79

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

White City Blue

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Goodreads rating: 3.39

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If you've ever wondered how life's milestones can strain old friendships, "White City Blue" might resonate with you. Frankie Blue's story is a relatable saga about coping with change and the way our bonds are stretched by new chapters. Lott crafts a poignant narrative that digs deep into the complexities of loyalty and growth, inviting you to reflect on your own relationships.
Every Man for Himself
Beryl Bainbridge | Carroll & Graf

Every Man for Himself

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Goodreads rating: 3.48

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If the Titanic's tragic tale holds a morbid fascination for you, "Every Man for Himself" offers a deeply personal perspective on the disaster. Through the fictionalized account of a young man's life and the fateful journey, this book captures the essence of human nature when faced with life-and-death decisions. It's a riveting, emotionally charged read that puts a human face on a monumental historical event.
The Daughter Game - Thryft
Kate Long | Pan Macmillan Limited

The Daughter Game

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Goodreads rating: 2.9

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This book is perfect for fans of psychological thrillers. With unexpected plot twists and a dark, gripping atmosphere, readers will be hooked from the very beginning. The unique aspect of the book is the intricate web of lies and deception that characters weave, making it a page-turner until the very end.
How I Became Stupid - Thryft
Martin Page | Penguin Books

How I Became Stupid

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Goodreads rating: 3.39

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Ignorance is bliss, or so hopes Antoine, the lead character in Martin Page's stinging satire, "How I Became Stupid" a modern day "Candide" with a Darwin Award-like sensibility. A twenty-five-year-old Aramaic scholar, Antoine has had it with being brilliant and deeply self-aware in today's culture. So tortured is he by the depth of his perception and understanding of himself and the world around him that he vows to denounce his intelligence by any means necessary in order to become stupid enough to be a happy, functioning member of society. What follows is a dark and hilarious odyssey as Antoine tries everything from alcoholism to stock-trading in order to lighten the burden of his brain on his soul.
The Monk Downstairs
Tim Farrington | Harperone

The Monk Downstairs

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Goodreads rating: 3.51

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"The Monk Downstairs" isn't just a tale of unexpected roommates; it's a deep dive into personal transformations and the complexities of love and faith. If you're navigating the rough seas of real life, seeking meaning in the mundane, or just love the idea of second chances, this book's gentle humor and poignant moments could speak directly to your heart. Rebecca's journey might mirror your own skepticism, while Michael's struggle to reconcile his past with his present could challenge your own perspectives on life's purpose.
A Week in December
Sebastian Faulks | Vintage Books

A Week in December

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Goodreads rating: 3.27

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If you fancy a snapshot of contemporary London with a sharp, satirical edge, Sebastian Faulks's "A Week in December" could be your next page-turner. It's been lauded for capturing the essence of an era marked by financial turmoil and social disconnect. The multiple storylines would appeal to those who enjoy character-driven narratives that reflect on the complexities of modern life.
Walking to Hollywood: Memories of Before the Fall
Will Self | Bloomsbury Uk

Walking to Hollywood: Memories of Before the Fall

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Goodreads rating: 3.03

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If you're into novels that stretch the bounds of reality and venture into the absurd, Will Self's "Walking to Hollywood" could be a thrilling read for you. Self takes you on a bizarre trip through a heightened version of our world, where the boundaries between personal narrative and fantastical elements blur, challenging your perceptions of celebrity, success, and madness. This book isn't just a read; it's a mind-bending experience.
Interlogue: Drama

Interlogue: Drama

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"Interlogue: Drama" offers a reflective experience blending philosophical thought with the rich tapestry of cultural interplay. The narrative weaves through various voices and scenes, creating a tapestry that's as intellectually stimulating as it is engaging. If you enjoy exploring deep themes through the prism of diverse perspectives and dialogues, this might just resonate with you.
Girl at War: A Novel
Sara Nović | Random House Trade Paperbacks

Girl at War: A Novel

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Goodreads rating: 4.01

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"Girl at War" doesn't simply acquaint you with the tragedies of conflict, it envelops you in the life of Ana Jurić, whose youthful innocence is shattered by war. This narrative captures a deeply personal account that resonates with universal truths about loss, identity, and the quest for peace. It's both profoundly intimate and staggeringly grand, ensuring you’ll carry Ana's story with you long after the last page.
Ghost Light
Joseph O'Connor | Vintage

Ghost Light

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Goodreads rating: 3.49

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"Ghost Light" could be a mesmerizing read for you if you're drawn to historical fiction that presents a mix of romance, personal struggle, and the rich tapestry of early 20th-century theatre life. Joseph O'Connor skillfully blends Molly Allgood's real-life enchanting yet difficult love story with the atmospheric backdrop of Dublin and London, offering a narrative that is as much about the endurance of the human spirit as it is about the mores of the time.
Sucking Shrimp
Stephanie Theobald | Flame

Sucking Shrimp

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Goodreads rating: 2.67

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"Sucking Shrimp" offers an eclectic mix that might intrigue you if you're into vibrant storytelling with a touch of eccentricity. Stephanie Theobald crafts a narrative that threads the needle between offbeat humor and the strange allure of a foreign culture, all while toying with the idea of madness. It's a literary dish with a spice that could just captivate your palate.
Normal People
Sally Rooney | Faber & Faber

Normal People

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Goodreads rating: 3.81

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"Normal People" delves deep into the complexities of human connection, making it an absorbing read for anyone who appreciates nuanced character development and the intricate dance of intimate relationships. Rooney's ability to capture the subtleties of emotion and the social dynamics at play between her protagonists, Connell and Marianne, offers a rich exploration of love's power and fragility. As the characters evolve from their small-town roots to university life, you experience their struggles and triumphs, making the narrative both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Boy Swallows Universe
Trent Dalton | The Borough Press

Boy Swallows Universe

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Goodreads rating: 4.34

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If life's complexities and surmounting overwhelming odds resonate with you, "Boy Swallows Universe" is your next must-read. It's a riveting journey with young Eli, whose resilience in the face of a turbulent family life and criminal underworld shows the raw power of hope. Dalton's storytelling is cinematic, teeming with gritty emotion—a novel that's both harrowing and heartwarming.
The Night in Question
Tobias Wolff | Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group

The Night in Question

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Goodreads rating: 4.16

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If you enjoy stories that challenge expectations and probe at the complexities of truth, "The Night in Question" will likely captivate you. Tobias Wolff's masterful storytelling roots itself in the darkly comical and the painfully real, creating not just a read, but an experience. His prose might leave you questioning your own perceptions, with twists that satisfy a yearning for both the intellectually profound and emotionally resonant.
The Bonfire of the Vanities
Just Arrived
Tom Wolfe | Picador

The Bonfire of the Vanities

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Goodreads rating: 3.92

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"The Bonfire of the Vanities" is sharp and unforgiving, with Tom Wolfe's keen observational wit slicing through the veneer of high society. If you're intrigued by the excesses of Wall Street and the unsavory appetite of media and politics for scandal, this novel offers a scathing critique that's both entertaining and thought-provoking. Plus, if you're into books with a strong sense of time and place that act as a social commentary, this might just be your next favorite read.
The Art of Fielding - Thryft

The Art of Fielding

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This book is perfect for anyone who loves baseball but also appreciates a deeply introspective exploration of life. Through the intertwined lives of the main characters, The Art of Fielding captures the essence of youth, ambition, and the struggles that come with it. The way it seamlessly weaves in baseball as a metaphor for life is truly remarkable. You'll find yourself rooting for these characters and pondering your own aspirations as you join them on their journey towards self-realization. Get ready for a heartfelt and thought-provoking read.
Little Fires Everywhere : A Novel - Thryft
Celeste Ng | Penguin Books

Little Fires Everywhere

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Goodreads rating: 4.07

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61% off est. retail
"Little Fires Everywhere" truly resonates with anyone who appreciates complex character dynamics and the often unspoken tension between societal expectations and personal desires. Celeste Ng delves into the intricacies of motherhood, adolescence, and the illusion of a perfect life in a way that's both relatable and thought-provoking, igniting a reflection on your own life's 'little fires'.
Shuttlecock
Graham Swift | Pan Books Ltd

Shuttlecock

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Goodreads rating: 3.35

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"Shuttlecock" isn't just for mystery aficionados. If you're drawn to psychological depth and the unraveling of personal histories, this story will grip you. It delves into the complexities of family and memory, challenging your perceptions and immersing you in an absorbing narrative. A read that's as much about the journey inward as it is about uncovering truths.
Symphony of Secrets
Brendan Slocumb | Anchor

Symphony of Secrets

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Goodreads rating: 4.27

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If the eloquence of music and the intrigue of a mystery novel are what normally captivates you, "Symphony of Secrets" might just be your next favorite read. It's a thrilling investigation into the complex fabric of legacy, talent, and deception that weaves together the past and the present, pulling you into a quest for justice and truth. Dive in and join Bern as he challenges historical narratives, making it a resonant tale for those who love to unearth buried truths.
Surveillance: A Novel - Thryft
Jonathan Raban | Pantheon

Surveillance: A Novel

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Goodreads rating: 2.79

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"Surveillance" might speak to you if you're intrigued by the tension between personal freedom and societal security — a theme that's only grown more relevant since 9/11. Jonathan Raban crafts a story that dives into the life of a journalist and single mother navigating this transforming world. It's darkly humorous and offers astute commentary on contemporary society, perfect for readers who appreciate a blend of wit and critical insight.
Paint It Black
Janet Fitch | Little Brown Paperbacks (a&c)

Paint It Black

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Goodreads rating: 3.5

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63% off est. retail
If you found the intensity of 'White Oleander' captivating, 'Paint It Black' is your next emotional exploration. Janet Fitch's evocative prose delves deep into the gritty '80s LA punk scene through Josie's eyes, whose poignant journey through love and grief may echo within for days. It's a raw, visceral narrative that doesn't shy away from the pain of being left behind, capturing the ache of loss with gritty authenticity.
Martin Bauman, Or, A Sure Thing
David Leavitt | Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Martin Bauman, Or, A Sure Thing

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Goodreads rating: 3.53

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80% off est. retail
If you're drawn to tales of creative ambition, marked by the complexities of personal and sexual identity, "Martin Bauman" might just captivate you. David Leavitt's portrayal of a young writer's quest for literary success in New York City is both a love letter to and a critique of the publishing world, with a mentor relationship that keeps you guessing. The novel's exploration of artistic yearning against the backdrop of relationships and self-discovery is a poignant narrative that could resonate deeply with anyone who appreciates rich character studies wrapped in the allure of literary pursuits.
The Man Who Was Late
Louis Begley | Ballantine Books

The Man Who Was Late

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Goodreads rating: 3.33

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This book would be a good read for those who appreciate introspective narratives that explore the complexities of love, identity, and the weight of the past. Set against the backdrop of post-war Europe, "The Man Who Was Late" delves into the enigmatic relationship between Ben, a Holocaust survivor, and Veronique, a married woman. The author's contemplative writing style captivates readers, immersing them in the characters' deep commitment and the emotional urgency of their stolen moments together. It is a poignant exploration of the human capacity for connection and the choices we make in pursuit of happiness.
Black Swan Green
David Mitchell | Sceptre

Black Swan Green

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Goodreads rating: 3.97

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59% off est. retail
Recommended for readers seeking authentic narratives of adolescence. Jason Taylor's candid narration about his struggles with bullying, a stammer and his family, set against major political events, creates a deeply moving and memorable read.
Double Vision
Pat Barker | Hamish Hamilton

Double Vision

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Goodreads rating: 3.54

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61% off est. retail
"Double Vision" could be a good read for those who enjoy historical fiction and exploring the psychological effects of war. The novel follows the story of a British war artist and his struggles with PTSD. Pat Barker's writing is sharp and vivid, bringing to life the emotional toll of war on individuals and society as a whole.
The White Stuff
Simon Armitage | Penguin Books

The White Stuff

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Goodreads rating: 3.52

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Simon Armitage's "The White Stuff" promises to be an enriching journey for anyone intrigued by the intersection of daily life and literary art. His background as a respected poet and his Yorkshire roots might infuse the pages with a unique blend of lyrical insights and northern English charm, perfect for readers who appreciate depth and local color in their prose.
A Fool's Alphabet
Sebastian Faulks | Vintage

A Fool's Alphabet

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Goodreads rating: 3.28

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If you appreciate a narrative that isn't linear but instead pieces together a life like a puzzle, then "A Fool's Alphabet" could intrigue you. The unique structure, with chapters corresponding to different places alphabetically, provides a literary journey that offers small revelations about Pietro Russell's character with each stop. It's like savoring a mystery where each chapter is a clue to understanding the whole person.

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.