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Contemporary Fiction

Here in our Contemporary Fiction section at Thryft, discover compelling narratives from groundbreaking authors that challenge, entertain, and inspire us. From thought-provoking tales to emotional sagas, find your next page-turner here!

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Fiesta - Thryft

Fiesta

$8.68 $3.90 55% off

$8.68 $3.90 55% off

If the depth of human emotion wrapped in sparse, impactful writing appeals to you, then Hemingway's "Fiesta" is your kind of read. Its characters epitomize the post-war disillusionment and their hedonistic quest against the backdrop of the running of the bulls in Spain makes for an intense, yet introspective experience.
Simply Love - Thryft
Mary Balogh | Dell

Simply Love

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

78% off est. retail
"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."
And We Sold The Rain - Contemporary Fiction From Central America - Thryft
Rosario Santos | Four Walls

And We Sold The Rain - Contemporary Fiction From Central America

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.56

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

This book could be a good read for you if you are intrigued by the untold stories of Central America's tumultuous past. Through powerful narratives, the author brings to light the harsh realities of massacres, guerrilla warfare, and the effects of a fragile economy on the oppressed. Prepare to be moved by the enduring spirit of the characters as they navigate through family life, depression, and the fight for justice.
Memories of the Ford Administration
John Updike | Gardners

Memories of the Ford Administration

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.3

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

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.
Girl at War: A Novel
Sara Nović | Random House Trade Paperbacks

Girl at War: A Novel

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$8.90

"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.
For Love And Honor - Thryft
Candis Terry, Cathy Maxwell, Lynne Hinton  | Avon Books

For Love And Honor

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.41

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

37% off est. retail
For Love And Honor is a heartwarming collection of stories that highlight the bravery and sacrifice of military heroes. Each story showcases the love and devotion they have for their countries and the women they love. Readers who enjoy heartwarming and emotional love stories set against the backdrop of war will find this book to be an uplifting and inspiring read.
Hotel Juliet - Thryft
Belinda Seaward | John Murray

Hotel Juliet

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.23

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

81% off est. retail
Hotel Juliet could be a good read for anyone interested in a story that explores identity, memory and love. The book takes you on a journey from Britain to Africa over 20 years, as Memory embarks on a quest to find out why she left Africa as a child. Belinda Seaward's novel also explores the experiences of Max, the coffee planter, and Elise, Memory's adoptive mother. The poignant love triangle story, coupled with pathos and tragedy, makes for a compelling and memorable read that will stay with you long after you've finished the book.
Sucking Shrimp
Stephanie Theobald | Flame

Sucking Shrimp

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 2.67

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

72% off est. retail
"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.
Another World
Pat Barker | Penguin Uk

Another World

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

If you're drawn to stories that dive into the shadows of the past, "Another World" could captivate you. Pat Barker masterfully weaves the stark realities of a war veteran with the complex dynamics of a modern family. As the characters struggle to reconcile with history both personal and shared, you might find yourself reflecting on how the echoes of the past persist in our own lives.
The Road to Wanting
Wendy Law-Yone | Chatto & Windus

The Road to Wanting

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.51

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

86% off est. retail
"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 Oligarch's Wife - Thryft
Anna Blundy | Random House Uk

The Oligarch's Wife

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.33

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

89% off est. retail
This book would be a good read for someone who loves dramatic narratives filled with complex characters. The Oligarch's Wife takes you on a journey into a world of immense wealth and ruthless ambition. The most captivating aspect is the entangled lives of the two women who must navigate their relationships with the enigmatic Oligarch. The book delves deep into the dark underbelly of power and poses intriguing questions about the cost of ambition. Prepare to be engrossed in this gripping tale of power, betrayal, and the complexities of human relationships.
Trouble In Paradise - Thryft

Trouble In Paradise

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

If you're someone who enjoys a blend of mystery and the allure of an exotic backdrop, "Trouble in Paradise" might just transport you to that corner of the world where secrets are as plentiful as the scenic views. It's a thrilling escape that manages to capture the essence of intrigue within captivating surroundings.
The Things We Did for Love - Thryft
Natasha Farrant | Penguin Group

The Things We Did for Love

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.55

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

69% off est. retail
A poignant story of love and sacrifice amidst war. Arianne and Luc navigate a precarious romance in a village torn between resistance and collaboration with German forces. Farrant's writing immerses readers in the devastating effects of WWII, offering a nuanced portrait of what people do for love in the most trying of times.
Duo : The Narrowboat Girl/Water Gypsies - Thryft
Annie Murray | Pan Books

Duo : The Narrowboat Girl/Water Gypsies

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.38

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

76% off est. retail
If the intertwining of history, romance, and the unique setting of England's canal community piques your interest, then *"Duo: The Narrowboat Girl/Water Gypsies"* by Annie Murray will be a compelling read for you. Murray offers a glimpse into the lives led on the narrowboats, rich with detail and emotion, which is sure to resonate with anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a personal touch.
Web of Love - Thryft
Mary Balogh | Dell

Web of Love

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

76% off est. retail
"Web of Love" is a must-read for lovers of historical romance. Mary Balogh masterfully weaves together a tale of loyalty, friendship, and forbidden love. The unique feature of the book is the intense conflict between the two male protagonists for the heart of the female lead. The scandal that ensues keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. Highly recommended for fans of steamy romance novels.
Every Man for Himself
Beryl Bainbridge | Carroll & Graf

Every Man for Himself

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.48

$8.90

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.
Margot & Me - Thryft
Juno Dawson | Hot Key Books

Margot & Me

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

78% off est. retail
"Margot & Me" might surprise you with its depth. It's not just a tale of teen angst, but a layered exploration of how our perceptions of people change with understanding their past. As you follow Fliss uncovering her grandmother’s wartime secrets, you'll be drawn into a story that dances between eras and emotions, teaching about forgiveness, love, and the complexities of family ties.
River angel - Thryft
A. Manette Ansay | William Morrow

River angel

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.53

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

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

The Gardens of Kyoto

$15.90 $10.90 31% off

Goodreads rating: 3.43

$15.90 $10.90 31% off

71% off est. retail
If you find the intermingling of personal memory and history fascinating, then "The Gardens of Kyoto" could be deeply resonant for you. Kate Walbert masterfully weaves a tale that explores the complexity of loss and love against the backdrop of war. This novel has a lyrical quality to it, with a narrative that's as delicate and intricate as the Japanese gardens it's named after. It's a journey through a landscape of the heart that might stay with you for a long time.
A Distant Connexion - Thryft
Petra Nash | Harlequin Mills & Boon

A Distant Connexion

$1.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$1.90

46% off est. retail
The Wall: A Modern Fable
William Sutcliffe | Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

The Wall: A Modern Fable

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

"The Wall" is a poignant modern fable that echoes our collective fears about isolation and the necessity of human resilience. If you find yourself drawn to stories that reflect on societal issues through an individual's struggle, this book could offer you both a mirror and a window. Its stark, powerful narrative will likely stay with you, prompting deeper reflection on the walls we encounter in life, both literal and metaphorical.
The Man Who Was Late
Louis Begley | Ballantine Books

The Man Who Was Late

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.33

$9.90 $6.90 30% off

67% off est. retail
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.
Freud's Sister
Christina E. Kramer, Goce Smilevski  | Penguin Books Usa

Freud's Sister

$12.90 $9.90 23% off

Goodreads rating: 3.49

$12.90 $9.90 23% off

If you're intrigued by the intersection of history and fiction, "Freud's Sister" is a compelling dive into the often-unheard narrative of Adolfina Freud. The novel isn't just about what might have happened, it's about giving a voice to those overshadowed by greatness. You'll find yourself immersed in the cultural tapestry of early twentieth-century Vienna and moved by the poignant what-ifs that history often ignores. The emotional depth and historical context make it a thought-provoking read.
Dancer
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Colum McCann | Phoenix

Dancer

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

73% off est. retail
"Dancer" artfully weaves the grace and intensity of ballet with the poignant journey of Rudolf Nureyev, a master of movement who leapt beyond the confines of his circumstances. Colum McCann's skillful prose lifts Nureyev's story off the pages, making it a dance in itself. If you're drawn to narratives of perseverance, artistry, and the complex sacrifices for excellence, this novel will resonate deeply with you.
The Dark Room
Sold out
Rachel Seiffert | Heinemann

The Dark Room

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

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.
The Accusation
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Bandi, Deborah Smith  | Profile Books

The Accusation

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$8.90

60% off est. retail
"The Accusation" isn't just any book—it's a rare glimpse into the ostensibly opaque North Korea, penned by an author risking it all to shine light on their experiences. The narratives here aren't just stories; they're acts of bravery, signals of defiance, and whispers of hope that crossed borders to reach you. It's a read that challenges, educates, and grips you with the raw truth of human endurance under the most watchful eye imaginable.
Property
Sold out
Valerie Martin | Abacus

Property

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

76% off est. retail
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.
The Raiders
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Harold Robbins | Pocket

The Raiders

$44.90

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$44.90

90% off est. retail
If you're enticed by stories of grandeur and the intricate plays of high-stakes power, "The Raiders" by Harold Robbins could just be the book to captivate you. Robbins is known for weaving narratives that transport readers into worlds of opulent lifestyles and relentless ambition. The novel's exploration of wealth and influence makes it a satisfying read for anyone who enjoys a dive into the complexities of success and dominance.
Pao
Sold out
Kerry Young | Bloomsbury Usa

Pao

$14.90 $5.90 60% off

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$14.90 $5.90 60% off

80% off est. retail
"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.
After the Last Dance : Two women. Two love affairs. One unforgettable story - Thryft
Sold out
Sarra Manning | Sphere

After the Last Dance : Two women. Two love affairs. One unforgettable story

$5.99

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$5.99

63% off est. retail
Recommended for readers who enjoy unconventional love stories. Unique feature is the connection between two women separated by time and the unexpected events that unfold in their lives.
In the Skin of a Lion - Thryft
Sold out
Michael Ondaatje | King Penguin

In the Skin of a Lion

$13.51

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$13.51

"In the Skin of a Lion" is an excellent read for those who are interested in historical fiction. This book beautifully illustrates Toronto's past and the stories that shaped its present. You will fall in love with the characters and their intertwined lives. Michael Ondaatje's lyrical writing makes it a must-read for fans of literary fiction.
The Mathematics Of Love - Thryft
Sold out
Emma Darwin | Headline Review

The Mathematics Of Love

$3.88

Goodreads rating: 3.12

$3.88

78% off est. retail
THE MATHEMATICS OF LOVE is a beautifully written novel that explores how love can transform even the most broken of people. The unique aspect of this book is the use of mathematics to understand relationships. This book is recommended for anyone who loves a passionate love story that is both heartwarming and heartbreaking.
Waterland
Sold out
Graham Swift | Vintage International

Waterland

$7.90

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$7.90

76% off est. retail
Waterland could be a great read for someone looking to explore the intersection of personal and collective history. Swift's vivid imagery and intimate storytelling put the reader on the banks of the Fen, while grappling with questions of knowledge, loss, and storytelling itself. This book is a must-read for fans of the historical fiction genre.
Icy Sparks - Thryft
Sold out
Gwyn Hyman Rubio | Penguin Books

Icy Sparks

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

82% off est. retail
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.
Four Fires - Thryft
Sold out
Bryce Courtenay | Viking

Four Fires

$13.35

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$13.35

71% off est. retail
"Four Fires" is a heart-warming story that showcases the strength of the human spirit. Through the lives of the Maloney family, readers are reminded that no matter how difficult life can be, resilience and perseverance can help overcome any challenge. Bryce Courtenay's beautiful writing style and attention to detail accurately depict life in small-town Australia in the 1950s. This book is perfect for anyone in need of a feel-good read that highlights the importance of family, love, and determination.
Black Dogs : A Novel - Thryft
Sold out
Ian McEwan | Anchor

Black Dogs : A Novel

$7.40

Goodreads rating: 3.45

$7.40

67% off est. retail
This book is a great read for those who enjoy literary fiction that explores complex relationships and historical events. McEwan's ability to weave together personal and political narratives is stunning, and the book's exploration of the lingering effects of trauma is particularly poignant. If you enjoy introspective, character-driven stories that tackle weighty themes, this is a book for you.
Radiance Of Tomorrow - A Novel - Thryft
Sold out
Ishmael Beah | Sarah Crichton Books

Radiance Of Tomorrow - A Novel

$6.09

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$6.09

76% off est. retail
Radiance of Tomorrow could be a good read for those interested in post-war life and the struggles that come with trying to rebuild a community from the ground up. The novel offers a poignant look at the fragility of life and the importance of perseverance in the face of uncertainty. Ishmael Beah's hauntingly beautiful writing style transports readers to a distant world where two friends must summon the courage to navigate a new reality.
The South
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Colm Tóibín | Picador

The South

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.66

$8.90

61% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for someone looking for a story about an individual's journey of self-discovery and creative passion. Toibin's immersive storytelling and his portrayal of a complex protagonist with strengths and flaws make for an engaging and thought-provoking read.
Women of Algiers in Their Apartment - Thryft
Sold out
Clarisse Zimra, Assia Djebar, Marjolijn De Jager  | University Of Virginia Press

Women of Algiers in Their Apartment

$9.46 $6.62 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.56

$9.46 $6.62 30% off

84% off est. retail
"Women of Algiers in Their Apartment" is an impactful read for those interested in exploring the lived experiences of oppressed women, particularly those in postcolonial societies. Assia Djebar's writing style is both innovative and lyrical as it illuminates the struggles faced by Algerian women - from being cloistered to grappling with the implications of reticence, the connection of language to oppression and the impact of war on both women and men. This book's strength lies in its unapologetic portrayal of the plight of urban Algerian women as they navigate a postcolonial society that has denied and subjugated them even as it celebrates the liberation of men. Highly recommended for those interested in women's stories of struggle and victory.
Do Not Say We Have Nothing
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Madeleine Thien | Granta Books

Do Not Say We Have Nothing

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

64% off est. retail
"Do Not Say We Have Nothing" might resonate deeply if you're intrigued by the personal sagas set against momentous historical events. Madeleine Thien masterfully intertwines music and silence, giving you a read that feels like a haunting melody about devotion and survival amidst the turbulent waves of China's Cultural Revolution. It's an emotionally rich journey that has captured the hearts of readers, evidenced by its Man Booker Prize shortlist recognition.
A Gambler's Magic - Thryft
Sold out
Emma Craig | Love Spell

A Gambler's Magic

$2.72

Goodreads rating: 4.3

$2.72

83% off est. retail
A Gambler's Magic could be a good read for someone who enjoys western romance novels that feature themes of spiritual redemption and the power of love to heal. The unique aspect of this book is its inclusion of gambling as a way for the characters to find redemption. Readers may appreciate the complex and flawed characters, as they navigate their way through their emotional turmoil.
The Kite Runner
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Khaled Hosseini | Bloomsbury

The Kite Runner

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.35

$8.90

37% off est. retail
You might find "The Kite Runner" incredibly moving if you're interested in stories that weave personal redemption with the vivid backdrop of a nation's turbulent history. Khaled Hosseini's rich narrative reveals not just the bond and betrayal between two boys, but it also opens a window into Afghanistan's soul. It's one of those rare novels that captures heartbreak and hope, with characters that linger with you well after the last page.
A God in Ruins - Thryft
Sold out
Kate Atkinson | Black Swan

A God in Ruins

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$9.90 $4.90 51% off

76% off est. retail
If you're drawn to stories that blend historical depth with personal narratives, "A God in Ruins" could captivate you. Kate Atkinson's talent shines through in her portrayal of Teddy Todd's life, spanning the heroics of war to the challenges of peace. The book's celebrated prose and the emotional resonance it carries could make it not just a novel but an experience for you, as it delves into the burdens carried by those who survive and the generations that follow.

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.