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!

139 Results

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

139 Results

No results

No results

Songbirds
Christy Lefteri | Manilla Press

Songbirds

from $10.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.03

from $10.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If "The Beekeeper of Aleppo" moved you with its potent storytelling, "Songbirds" by Christy Lefteri will resonate deeply with your heart once more. The novel pairs the beauty and hardship of life with the poignant journey of those searching for a better place in the world. It's a richly emotional read that offers insight into the complexities of love, displacement, and the silent struggles often unnoticed by society.
In the Name of Honour - Thryft
Richard North Patterson | Pan Macmillan

In the Name of Honour

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.89

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

This book is for those who appreciate an enthralling mix of suspense, military drama, and legal thrills. "In the Name of Honour" takes you on a rollercoaster ride through the trauma of war and the complexities of loyalty and friendship. The distinctive feature of this book lies in its ability to explore the consequences of the high cost of war on both soldiers and their families, delving into the depths of the human psyche. Prepare to be captivated by the riveting courtroom drama that unfolds, as the characters navigate through secrets and emotional turmoil.
he : A Novel - Thryft
John Connolly | Hodder & Stoughton Ltd

he : A Novel

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.0

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

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

Human Traces

from $5.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.68

from $5.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Human Traces" takes you on a thoughtful journey back in time, where you'll traverse the evolving landscape of psychiatric understanding alongside richly drawn characters. For anyone fascinated by the intricacies of the human mind and the bonds that tie us together through the ages, Sebastian Faulks' blend of historical detail and psychological exploration makes this book a nuanced read that's both informative and deeply human.
Cold Blood - Thryft

Cold Blood

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.75

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

"Cold Blood" is an adrenaline-filled and gripping Arctic thriller that follows Nick Stone and his team of ex-servicemen as they trek towards the North Pole. The book is a must-read for fans of the genre, with its vivid descriptions of the icy terrain, tense action scenes, and unexpected plot twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats. McNab's writing packs a punch, making it a perfect read for anyone who craves a thrilling adventure.
TransAtlantic - Thryft
Colum McCann | Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

TransAtlantic

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.82

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you’re someone who loves diving into the complex tapestry of history through personal lives and epic journeys, "TransAtlantic" is a book that could enchant you. McCann masterfully intertwines tales across time, from daring flights to political quests and the pursuit of freedom. His poetic prose and the deeply human stories at the heart of this novel make it a captivating read that not only entertains but also offers profound insights into the interconnectedness of our stories.
In Evil Hour - Thryft
Gabriel García Márquez | Pan Books

In Evil Hour

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.43

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

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

Drowning Ruth

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.75

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

If you enjoy unraveling deep-seated mysteries embedded in historical contexts, "Drowning Ruth" won't disappoint. Christina Schwarz masterfully weaves suspense through decades, immersing you in the rigid social landscapes of early 20th-century Wisconsin. The book offers a gripping exploration of the repercussions of silence and the weight of secrets. It's a haunting narrative that stays with you, perfect for those who appreciate the persistence of the past and its intrusion into the present.
Only a Promise - Thryft
Mary Balogh | Piatkus

Only a Promise

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.98

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Only a Promise" is a great pick for historical romance fans who enjoy a complex and flawed hero. Ralph Stockwood is haunted by the deaths of his friends and struggles to move on, making his relationship with Chloe, a woman who wants to escape her past, all the more compelling. Balogh's prose is exquisite and her characters are well-developed, making this a must-read for fans of the genre.
The Storyteller
New
Jodi Picoult | Pocket Books

The Storyteller

from $5.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.3

from $5.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"The Storyteller" takes readers on a journey of redemption and forgiveness. Picoult's masterful storytelling reveals the intricacies of relationships and the power of forgiveness. The book is recommended for readers who enjoy tales of personal growth and exploring complex moral issues.
All Our Shimmering Skies
Trent Dalton | Harpercollins - Au

All Our Shimmering Skies

from $22.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.95

from $22.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you're drawn to tales that blend the harsh realities of history with the whimsy of magic, "All Our Shimmering Skies" could be a mesmerizing journey for you. Through the perilous adventures of Molly Hook in war-torn Darwin, you’ll find the pure resilience of the human spirit against a backdrop of both historical and magical elements, woven together by Trent Dalton’s vibrant prose. It’s a compelling mix that could satisfy both a love of gritty historical context and lyrical storytelling.
Run Me to Earth
New
Paul Yoon | Simon & Schuster

Run Me to Earth

from $9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.68

from $9.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

"Run Me to Earth" by Paul Yoon is an exquisite journey through the agony and resilience in the shadows of war. Yoon's craftsmanship in portraying delicate human connections amidst the violence of 1960s Laos captures a haunting beauty that's hard to find in historical fiction. If you're moved by tales of survival, the intertwining destinies of Yoon's characters will stay with you, making you ponder the depths of human fortitude.
The Yellow Birds
Kevin Powers | Sceptre

The Yellow Birds

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.74

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

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.
Property
Valerie Martin | Abacus

Property

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.69

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

Valerie Martin's "Property" offers a profound narrative that immerses you in the antebellum South, weaving a story that reveals the harrowing realities of ownership and autonomy. This gripping novel provides insight into the personal and societal chains that bind both owner and owned, delivering an enthralling and resonant experience that will leave you pondering long after the last page. With validation from literary giants like Toni Morrison, it promises substance that could challenge and captivate you in equal measure.
River angel - Thryft
A. Manette Ansay | William Morrow

River angel

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.53

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"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.
Warlight - Thryft
Michael Ondaatje | Vintage

Warlight

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.61

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

Recommendation: Warlight is a remarkable novel that takes you on a captivating journey into post-war London, where a young boy, Nathaniel, finds himself caught up in a world of mystery and intrigue. Through the elegant prose of Michael Ondaatje, you will be drawn into a web of family secrets and lies, as Nathaniel uncovers the truth about his mother's past. This book's unique appeal lies in its ability to seamlessly blend history, imagination, and memory, creating a beautifully melancholic and engrossing narrative. If you are a fan of thought-provoking historical fiction that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the haunting power of the past, then Warlight is a must-read for you.
Stern Men - Thryft
Elizabeth Gilbert | Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Stern Men

Regular price $4.90 from $3.90 Save up to 45%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.45

Regular price $4.90 from $3.90 Save up to 45%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

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.
Kane & Abel
Jeffrey Archer | Harpercollins Publishers

Kane & Abel

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.33

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Kane & Abel" is the kind of novel that will keep you engrossed late into the night. Jeffrey Archer crafts a compelling narrative about destiny and the impacts of our choices, masterfully entwining the lives of two complex characters. It's a recommendation for you if you crave a story that delves into how ambition and animosity can shape lives over decades. The juxtaposition of Kane's and Abel's vastly different beginnings to where their lives intersect creates a tapestry of human experience that's hard to put down.
Pao
Kerry Young | Bloomsbury Usa

Pao

from $14.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.69

from $14.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Pao" is a novel with heart and heritage, plunging you into a vibrant, gritty Jamaica far from the postcards. Kerry Young delivers a poignant narrative told through the eyes of Pao, a character caught between the roles of a criminal godfather and a tender-hearted man. This read promises more than just thrills; it's an exploration of identity and a front row seat to a historical juncture in Jamaica's story. The allure of Pao's duality, matched with the rich backdrop of cultural fusion, gives this book a distinctive flavor that's both enlightening and entertaining.
The Reluctant Fundamentalist
New
Mohsin Hamid | Mariner Books

The Reluctant Fundamentalist

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.73

from $8.90

Unit price
per

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.
Simply Love - Thryft
Mary Balogh | Dell

Simply Love

Regular price $4.90 from $3.90 Save up to 45%

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.98

Regular price $4.90 from $3.90 Save up to 45%

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Simply Love could be a good read for those who enjoy historical romance with complex characters. The story delves into themes of societal judgment, healing from past trauma, and the depth of love. Readers will appreciate the unconventional romance between Anne, a single mother haunted by a scandalous past, and Sydnam, a war-scarred reclusive veteran. Balogh's writing captures the nuances of the characters' emotions, creating a satisfying read for those who enjoy multi-layered romance novels."
Vinegar Hill - Thryft
A. Manette Ansay | Harper Perennial

Vinegar Hill

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.39

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Vinegar Hill" is more than just a journey back to 1972 Wisconsin; it's a deep dive into the resilience of the human spirit. As you navigate through Ellen Grier's life, you're sure to resonate with her plight—living under the weight of oppressive in-laws and a community bound by harsh, judgmental faith. Ellen's struggle for self-determination and her courage in the face of grim realities promise to inspire and provoke thought about the battles we all fight for personal freedom.
The Story of a Brief Marriage
Anuk Arudpragasam | Granta Books

The Story of a Brief Marriage

from $10.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.81

from $10.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

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

from $6.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

Irene Sabatini's "The Boy Next Door" could captivate you if you're drawn to rich narratives that interweave personal relationships with historical upheaval. As Zimbabwe unravels, so does the forbidden bond between Lindiwe and Ian, posing a tension that not only reflects societal divides but also the resilient nature of love and youth. It's a tale that promises both the intimacy of budding romance and a front-row seat to a country's poignant struggle.
The Arrangement : Number 2 in series - Thryft

The Arrangement : Number 2 in series

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.89

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

Recommended for fans of historical romance with complex characters. The unique feature of this book is its portrayal of a war hero who is grappling with blindness and the aftermath of war. The chemistry between the two main protagonists is palpable and their story of redemption through love will leave readers feeling uplifted.
Help
Kathryn Stockett | Penguin Group

Help

from $3.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.47

from $3.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you're into stories that delve into deep social issues with a light yet gripping touch, "Help" is an excellent choice. Kathryn Stockett masterfully gives voice to characters that are usually left voiceless, creating an empathetic and thought-provoking narrative that challenges the status quo. It's a moving tribute to friendship and bravery in the face of injustice.
A Season of Leaves
Catherine Law | Preface Publishing

A Season of Leaves

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.87

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you’re the type who loves to sink into stories that feel like elegant tapestries of emotion and memory, "A Season of Leaves" could be your next treasure. Catherine Law's journalistic keenness translates into richly painted scenes and complex characters. It's the kind of book that invites you to reflect on your own seasons of change as you turn its pages.
The Arrangement - Thryft

The Arrangement

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.89

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

"The Arrangement" is a touching and enthralling story that revolves around a conflicted war hero, Vincent, and a remarkable woman, Sophia, who helps him see the light of love. Balogh delves into the nuances of the Regency era and creates appealing characters that leave an indelible mark on the reader's heart. The story is imbued with heart, humor, and sensual pleasure, making it a compelling read that explores the redemptive power of love.
Only a Promise : Ralph's Story - Thryft

Only a Promise : Ralph's Story

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.98

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

"Only a Promise" is a heartwarming historical romance that follows Ralph and Chloe's journey. The unique feature of the book is the unusual bargain that forms the foundation of their marriage. The readers will be captivated by the promises made by these two characters and how they navigate their way through challenging circumstances. If you're a fan of historical romance novels filled with passion, this book is definitely for you.
City On Fire - Thryft
Garth Risk Hallberg | Knopf

City On Fire

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.4

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

This book would be a good read for someone who enjoys epic, sprawling narratives set in vibrant and gritty cities. City On Fire captures the essence of 1970s New York City, painting a vivid picture of the interconnectedness of its inhabitants. With multiple characters and storylines, it weaves together a tapestry of love, art, power, and betrayal. It's a mesmerizing journey that will make you feel like you're wandering the streets of NYC yourself, immersed in its energy and chaos.
City Of Joy - Thryft
Dominique Lapierre | Arrow/children's (a Division Of Random House

City Of Joy

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.24

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

This book is a powerful testament to the indomitable human spirit, showcasing the unwavering determination of individuals in the face of extreme poverty and despair. Through the stories of Mother Teresa, Stephen Kovalski, and Max Loeb, the book takes us on an emotional journey that will inspire and challenge readers to reevaluate their own lives. City of Joy is a captivating and heart-wrenching read that will ultimately leave you with a renewed sense of hope and faith in humanity.
Brazzaville Beach
William Boyd | Penguin Canada

Brazzaville Beach

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.95

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

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.
The Road to Wanting
Wendy Law-Yone | Chatto & Windus

The Road to Wanting

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.51

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"The Road to Wanting" takes you on a profound emotional odyssey through the life of a character who has endured much and seeks solace. Wendy Law-Yone beautifully uncovers the veiled aspects of the East, blending the raw realities of exploitation with the healing grace of facing one's past. It's an evocative read that will resonate if you're interested in deeply personal narratives set against a backdrop of cultural turmoil.
The Dark Room
Rachel Seiffert | Heinemann

The Dark Room

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.72

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you're interested in a nuanced exploration of war's perennial shadows, "The Dark Room" is a compelling read. Rachel Seiffert’s debut captures the inheritance of trauma with eloquence, sliding through time to reveal how the past persistently molds the present. The restraint in her prose magnifies the emotional impact, making it a powerful narrative that’s hard to shake off. It's thoughtfully constructed, certainly for someone who appreciates subtlety and the lingering ghost of history.
Daughters of Cornwall - Thryft
Fern Britton | Harpercollins

Daughters of Cornwall

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.09

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

"Daughters of Cornwall" is an intriguing tapestry that interweaves past and present. If you’re drawn to stories that delve into family secrets and the complex ties that bind generations, then this tale of discovery and hidden truths set against the picturesque backdrop of Cornwall will captivate you. Britton's storytelling has a warmth that brings characters to life, promising an absorbing escape into the resilience and mysteries of familial bonds.
My Scandalous Viscount : Number 5 in series - Thryft
Gaelen Foley | Piatkus

My Scandalous Viscount : Number 5 in series

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.85

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

My Scandalous Viscount is perfect for readers who enjoy historical romance with a twist of mystery and suspense. The book is centered around the Inferno Club, a scandalous group of warriors, and follows Sebastian, Viscount Beauchamp, and his betrothed Carissa as they navigate a compromising situation and unravel dangerous secrets. The chemistry between the protagonists is palpable, and the connection they share despite their differences is the highlight of the book. Foley's writing is vivid and immersive, transporting readers to the sophisticated yet scandalous world of London society.
The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared
New

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

Imagine feeling trapped by age, but your spirit is irrepressible, craving just one more streak of mischief. This book offers not just a rollicking adventure but weaves a tapestry of 20th-century history through the eyes of an unlikely protagonist. Allan’s journey is a testament to the idea that it's never too late for a little rebellion or an unexpected life chapter, making it a delightfully inspiring read for anyone feeling hemmed in by the tick of the clock.
Sparta
Roxana Robinson | Picador

Sparta

from $10.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.78

from $10.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

Recommendation: Sparta could be a good read for someone interested in understanding the complexities of readjusting to civilian life after serving in the military and the toll it can take on one's mental health. The book provides a unique perspective on the Marine Corps ethic and the challenges of returning to civilian life. The most distinctive feature of the book is its ability to capture the range of emotions experienced by those who have served in combat. Overall, it's a thought-provoking and gripping novel that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Pure
Andrew Miller | Sceptre

Pure

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.6

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Like New

"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.
Friendswood : A Novel - Thryft
Rene Steinke | Riverhead Books

Friendswood : A Novel

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.24

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

"Friendswood" is a great pick for readers who enjoy complex and emotional family dramas. Steinke's exploration of the aftermath of a tragic industrial leak and the effects it has on the town's residents is compelling and heart-wrenching. The book's unique feature lies in its ability to intricately weave together the lives of multiple characters, allowing the reader to understand the impact of the event from various perspectives. If you are a fan of stories that explore the resilience of communities during times of crisis, "Friendswood" is a must-read.
Everything Is Illuminated
New
Jonathan Safran Foer | Penguin Books

Everything Is Illuminated

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.89

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"Everything Is Illuminated" weaves together humor and pathos in a tale that is as much about the journey as it is the destination. Jonathan Safran Foer’s inventive storytelling and his play with language make for a read that not only confronts historical tragedies but also explores the intricacies of human connections. This book resonates with readers who appreciate a narrative that is both emotionally rich and linguistically playful.
Memories of the Ford Administration
John Updike | Gardners

Memories of the Ford Administration

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.3

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

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.
Anil's Ghost : A Novel - Thryft
Michael Ondaatje | Vintage

Anil's Ghost : A Novel

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.58

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

If you're drawn to novels that meld rich prose with deep emotional currents, Michael Ondaatje's "Anil's Ghost" might be your next favorite read. You'll be transported to the heart of Sri Lanka's civil war, experiencing the turmoil through the eyes of a forensic anthropologist on a haunting quest. The book offers not just a compelling mystery, but also a profound exploration of identity and the enduring impact of heritage.
The Dew Breaker - Thryft
Edwidge Danticat | Vintage

The Dew Breaker

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.81

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"The Dew Breaker" isn't just a regular narrative; it’s a poignant exploration of guilt and redemption. If you're looking for a story that probes deep into the human psyche and the shadows of history, this one by Edwidge Danticat will move you. The book offers a look into the complex lives of immigrants, and the long reach of the past into the present. It could provoke thought on the implications of one's actions and the potential for change and forgiveness.
Shantaram
New
Gregory David Roberts | Abacus

Shantaram

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.27

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

Shantaram is a fantastic read for those seeking a thrilling adventure into the gritty underworld of Bombay. The story, based on a true story, follows an Australian fugitive's journey into the depths of the criminal underworld where he finds purpose, love, and moral redemption. Roberts' prose is both gripping and poetic, and readers will be drawn into the vividly described world of Bombay and its inhabitants. If you're looking for a tale of epic adventure, moral conflict, and unlikely redemption, this book is for you.
Apeirogon
New
Colum McCann | Bloomsbury Publishing

Apeirogon

from $9.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.25

from $9.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

If you're intrigued by narratives that weave political conflict with personal stories, "Apeirogon" could be a profound experience for you. Colum McCann delicately approaches the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through the lens of two fathers united by unimaginable loss. The novel's structure is as unique as its story, promising a reading experience that mirrors the boundlessness of its title. It's a book that not only tells a story but also invites reflection on empathy, peace, and the ties that bind us, even amid division.
The Rice Mother
Rani Manicka | Hodder

The Rice Mother

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.16

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

"The Rice Mother" unfolds as richly as a tapestry, with Lakshmi's poignant story etching itself into your heart. As you turn each page, you'll find yourself steeped in the vivid cultural backdrop of Malaya, wrestling with the complexities of familial devotion and the harsh realities of poverty. It's a narrative that's as resilient and powerful as the matriarch it portrays, sure to resonate with anyone who appreciates family epics told with raw honesty and lush detail.
Icy Sparks - Thryft
Gwyn Hyman Rubio | Penguin Books

Icy Sparks

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

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.7

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

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

This book would be a great read for someone interested in understanding the experience of living with Tourette's Syndrome. The novel provides an intimate portrayal of Icy's journey to self-acceptance and her struggles with being an outcast in her Appalachian community. The story also offers a poignant commentary on the importance of accepting others' differences and celebrating what makes each of us unique.
All Our Shimmering Skies
New
Trent Dalton | Harper Collins

All Our Shimmering Skies

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.95

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Very Good

"All Our Shimmering Skies" is a beacon of hope and beauty amid the backdrop of WWII Darwin. Dalton's prose intimate with nature's mysticism will transport you. If you crave a story that marries the gritty reality of war with the metaphysical, this novel could well become the next cherished piece on your shelf. It's for those who seek an immersive escape into the depths of human resilience and the awe of the natural world.
Shantaram
New
Gregory David Roberts | Abacus

Shantaram

from $8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.27

from $8.90

Unit price
per

In stock: Well Read

Recommendation: - Shantaram is a captivating novel that takes you on a thrilling journey through the dark underbelly of Bombay. Based on a true story, this book combines high adventure, moral purpose, and great storytelling to create an unforgettable reading experience. With its gritty authenticity and rollercoaster plot, Shantaram is perfect for readers who seek an action-packed tale that delves into the complexities of human nature and the power of redemption.

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.