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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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Freud's Sister
Christina E. Kramer, Goce Smilevski  | Penguin Books Usa

Freud's Sister

$12.90 $5.90 54% off

Goodreads rating: 3.49

$12.90 $5.90 54% 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.
Quarantine
Jim Crace | Farrar Straus Giroux

Quarantine

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.68

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

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

Numero Zero

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.17

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

77% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the murky intersections of history, media, and conspiracy theory, Umberto Eco's "Numero Zero" will captivate you. It brings together historical intrigue and literary craft, pitting a down-and-out writer against the deep-seated political machinations of Italy. Anyone with an interest in how narratives are shaped and reshaped—and the power plays behind them—will appreciate this masterful tale.
The Tenth Muse
Catherine Chung | Little, Brown

The Tenth Muse

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$8.90

"The Tenth Muse" will resonate if you're drawn to stories that weave personal identity with professional pursuit, all while echoing the historical notes of WW2. Katherine's quest to solve an enigma in mathematics is as much about cracking complex proofs as it is about understanding her own life's intricate patterns. For anyone who appreciates a narrative that challenges the mind and heart, this novel is a rich tapestry of intellectual adventure and human struggle.
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close
Jonathan Safran Foer | Penguin Books

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.97

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

83% off est. retail
This resonates deeply with anyone who's lost a loved one, as Oskar's journey is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming. Through his eyes, the bustling city of New York transforms into a labyrinth of memories and emotions, each lock he encounters acting as a metaphor for unraveling the complexities of grief. Jonathan Safran Foer masterfully paints a portrait of a young boy's determination and the impact of collective tragedy with a touch of innocence that's both profound and uplifting.
Ever After - Thryft
Graham Swift | Picador

Ever After

$11.43

Goodreads rating: 3.56

$11.43

Bill Unwin, in his 50s, looks back over his life and past. From his university rooms, he studies old family diaries from the mid-Victorian era. Excerpts from the diaries throw light on his own life - his feelings of hurt, revenge and family betrayal.
Great House
Nicole Krauss | Viking

Great House

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.49

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

63% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the power of objects to hold memories and shape lives, "Great House" is something you should consider. Nicole Krauss weaves a story that transcends time and geography, entrusting a single writing desk with the deep emotional legacies of its owners. It's a literary journey through pain, longing, and remembrance that could give you a profound sense of connection with the characters and human history.
The Storyteller
Jodi Picoult | Hodder Paperback

The Storyteller

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 4.3

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

"The Storyteller" weaves complex characters into a narrative that explores the darkest corners of morality, forgiveness, and the weight of past secrets. It grips you as Sage's story unfolds, revealing the delicate balance between justice and mercy, and challenging your own perceptions of right and wrong. If you're drawn to novels that provoke thought and present ethical dilemmas amidst a deeply personal journey, Jodi Picoult's storytelling prowess in this book will not disappoint. It's a read that lingers long after the last page.
A Reunion of Ghosts
Judith Claire Mitchell | 4th Estate

A Reunion of Ghosts

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.43

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

If you relish a blend of sharp wit amid the gravity of life's darker moments, 'A Reunion of Ghosts' could be a satisfying read for you. The Alter sisters' interplay is not only an entertaining foray into familial bonds but also a lens into the impact of past generations. This book, with its clever spins on somber themes, might just validate the complexity of family ties and individual destiny, offering both laughter and profundity in every chapter.
We Need New Names
NoViolet Bulawayo | Back Bay Books

We Need New Names

$7.90

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$7.90

68% off est. retail
"We Need New Names" sings the song of displacement and resilience through the eyes of Darling, a young girl finding her path from a turbulent Zimbabwe to the complexities of America. Bulawayo's narrative is raw, evocative, and studded with a mix of youthful innocence and mature insight, offering you a layered, thought-provoking experience that stays with you long after turning the last page. This might resonate with you if you're looking for a story that captures the essence of bittersweet transition and the search for identity in a new world.
A Shout In The Ruins - Thryft
Powers Kevin | Hachette

A Shout In The Ruins

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.64

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

77% off est. retail
"A Shout In The Ruins" will resonate with you on many levels. Powers weaves a narrative that connects past and present, with a strong evocation of the American South during a tumultuous period. His focus on the emotional landscapes of his characters amidst the harsh realities of war and its long shadow will leave a lasting impression. If you appreciate historical depth entwined with existential musings on life's worth and the traces we leave behind, this novel is a must-read.
Only Enchanting : Flavian's Story - Thryft
Mary Balogh | Signet

Only Enchanting : Flavian's Story

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 3.96

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

75% off est. retail
"Only Enchanting: Flavian's Story" is a charming historical romance novel that will not disappoint readers who enjoy heart-melting love stories. Balogh creates a unique twist in Flavian's character which adds depth to the story, making it a perfect blend of romance and drama. The characters are well developed and the plot is engaging, filled with passion, love, revenge, and redemption. It will leave readers feeling enthralled and enchanted.
The Company You Keep
Neil Gordon | Picador

The Company You Keep

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

86% off est. retail
This could be a compelling read for you if you're fascinated by the complexity of personal convictions clashing with political ideologies. Neil Gordon weaves a narrative that is as much about familial bonds as it is about the haunting legacies of the past, particularly the radical movements of the Vietnam war era. Its insightful exploration into the repercussions of youthful idealism turned militant offers a thrilling journey for anyone intrigued by the intersection of personal history and political action.
Neuland - Thryft

Neuland

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

72% off est. retail
Neuland could be a good read for those interested in novels exploring identity, love, and self-discovery. The story depicts the wandering nature of Israelis and their search for their home, while exploring Inbar's journey of healing and finding love in South America. Nevo successfully weaves in the experiences of two generations to present a profound exploration of identity and second chances. Readers will love the book for its beautiful writing, adventure-filled plot, and the romantic love story that unfolds along the way.
Hothouse Flower
Lucinda Riley | Penguin

Hothouse Flower

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

81% off est. retail
"Hothouse Flower" could be really absorbing if you're into stories that straddle past and present. Lucinda Riley crafts a narrative that stitches together a family's history with the intricacies of a long-kept secret and its implications on the present. The novel's ability to transport you from the harshest conflicts of the Second World War to the intricate beauty of a Thai hothouse makes it a compelling read for anyone seeking depth and historical ties in their fiction.
New York - Thryft
Edward Rutherfurd | Century

New York

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.17

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Imagine being swept through the ages with intimate portraits of people who've shaped New York's heartbeat. Edward Rutherfurd's "New York" is a masterful journey linking personal stories and historical events, serving as a metaphor for the American experience itself. It's not just a read; it lets you live through the evolution of America's most iconic city. If you're fascinated by how individual lives intersect with grand historical narratives, this book is a portal through time.
Silk
Guido Waldman, Alessandro Baricco  | Vintage

Silk

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$9.90

"Silk" can be a delightful journey for anyone fascinated by historical fiction that intertwines commerce with an illicit romance. Alessandro Baricco delicately crafts an exquisite narrative that shuts the distance between France and Japan, enveloping you in the lush details of the past. If the interplay of forbidden desire and cultural intrigue resonates with you, this book is a fine yarn, spun with the precision of a silk weaver's loom.
Homer and Langley
E.L. Doctorow | Random House

Homer and Langley

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

69% off est. retail
Imagine stepping into a world where retreat from society becomes a profound journey. "Homer and Langley" is not just a tale of two brothers retreating from the world; it's a rich canvas that captures the essence of a changing America through the eyes of the recluses. Your curiosity will be piqued, as E.L. Doctorow skillfully intertwines historical events with the personal saga of the Collyer brothers, making their lives a metaphor for the struggle to find meaning amidst chaos.
The Dead
Christian Kracht, Daniel Bowles  | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

The Dead

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.44

$13.90

55% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the intermingling of history with a touch of the ominous, "The Dead" should be your next read. Christian Kracht crafts a narrative that doesn't just recount events but enfolds you with an atmospheric blend of cultural elements, from Germany to Japan, opening your eyes to a haunting version of the past. This isn't just a book; it's an immersion into a time where the cogs of global conflict were just beginning to turn, all through the lens of a film culture that feels both distant and eerily current.
The Rice Mother
Rani Manicka | Sceptre

The Rice Mother

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.16

$8.90

If you're drawn to rich, multigenerational tales, "The Rice Mother" is a must-read. It delves into deep familial bonds, marked by the scars of war and the pursuit of forgiveness across generations. You'll find yourself transported through time, experiencing both the beauty and the pain of interconnected lives. The emotional depth and cultural richness make it a captivating story that can resonate with anyone interested in the complexities of family and history.
My Scandalous Viscount : Number 5 in series - Thryft
Gaelen Foley | Piatkus

My Scandalous Viscount : Number 5 in series

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

67% off est. retail
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.
Human Traces
Sebastian Faulks | Vintage Books

Human Traces

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

If you're intrigued by the human mind and its complexities, "Human Traces" might resonate with you. This book weaves the personal and professional lives of two psychiatrists, exploring not only the evolution of their friendship but also their medical beliefs and ethical dilemmas. Faulks delivers a rich narrative that questions what it means to be both flawed and pioneering in a field that deeply impacts human lives.
Oh, Play That Thing - The Last Roundup
Roddy Doyle | Vintage Books Usa

Oh, Play That Thing - The Last Roundup

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.28

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

80% off est. retail
If you relish historical fiction teeming with wit, Roddy Doyle's "Oh, Play That Thing" will transport you to 1920s America alongside the clever, cheeky Henry Smart. Doyle weaves a captivating narrative blending adventure, crime, and music—jazz becomes Henry's baptism into a new world. A pilgrimage through a vividly drawn era, with a soundtrack by none other than Louis Armstrong, awaits you in these pages.
K: The Art of Love - Thryft
Hong Ying | Penguin

K: The Art of Love

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.23

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

88% off est. retail
This book could be a good read if you're intrigued by passionate relationships forbidden by societal norms. Set in 1930s China, "K: The Art of Love" delves into the sensual exploration between Julian, a member of the Bloomsbury set, and Lin, the wife of a Chinese academic. As they navigate the Daoist Art of Love, their love story unfolds against the backdrop of a divided and conflicted country on the brink of war. It's a captivating tale that explores desire, cultural clashes, and the power of love to transcend boundaries.
Amagansett
Mark Mills | Fourth Estate

Amagansett

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$11.90 $3.90 67% off

If mysteries wrapped in rich, historical tapestries intrigue you, "Amagansett" will be a rewarding read. Mark Mills merges the raw uncertainty of post-war American life with the timeless rhythm of a fishing town, producing a narrative as deep and unpredictable as the Atlantic waters it describes. It's a novel that not only entertains but immerses you in an atmospheric journey on the edges of the known and the uncharted.
The Mammy
Brendan O'Carroll | Gardners Books

The Mammy

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

76% off est. retail
"The Mammy" is a book that charms with its blend of wit and warmth. Widowed Agnes Browne navigates life's ups and downs with a strength that's as inspiring as it is entertaining. If you enjoy a story that celebrates the human spirit with laughter and authenticity, you'll find yourself rooting for Agnes and her brood from the streets of Dublin.
French Blues - Thryft
Paul Rambali | Vintage/ebury (a Division Of Random House Group)

French Blues

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

'French Blues' takes you on a personal journey through France, not just as a travelogue but as an introspective exploration of culture and self. Its vivid descriptions and thoughtful prose will resonate with anyone who's sought to understand a place beyond the surface, making it a great read for those who love travel with depth.
Bournville: A Novel in Seven Occasions
Jonathan Coe | Viking

Bournville: A Novel in Seven Occasions

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.78

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

If you've ever been fascinated by how big historical events impact ordinary lives, "Bournville" would be a delightful read for you. As you follow Mary across seventy-five years of British history, you'll relish the interplay of personal and societal transformation. The quaint chocolate factory setting adds a charming backdrop to a tale that expertly captures the essence of time's passage and the sometimes sweet, sometimes bitter taste of change.
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.
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.
Memories of the Ford Administration
John Updike | Gardners

Memories of the Ford Administration

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.3

$8.90 $3.90 56% 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.
Welcome To The World Baby Girl - Thryft
Fannie Flagg | Vintage

Welcome To The World Baby Girl

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$3.90

80% off est. retail
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.
Panama - Thryft
Eric Zencey | Farrar, Straus & Giroux

Panama

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.19

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

72% off est. retail
If you're someone who revels in a rich tapestry of history and mystery, "Panama" could be an exciting pick for your next read. The author, Eric Zencey, masterfully immerses you in the atmospheric lanes of 1890s Paris, blending real historical figures with fiction. It's not just a story; it's a period piece that unravels a potent mix of suspense and historical context surrounding the Panama Canal scandal, engaging you until the last page.
Another World
Pat Barker | Penguin Uk

Another World

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$10.90 $4.90 55% 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.
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.
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.
A Share of Earth and Glory - Thryft
Katherine Giles | Jove

A Share of Earth and Glory

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.36

$3.90

If you have a hunger for a tale that intertwires the intricacies of human desires with the lush tapestry of history, "A Share of Earth and Glory" might be your next great escape. Katherine Giles crafts a story where ambition is as potent as passion, set against a backdrop that breathes life into the romance. Perfect for a reader looking for a historical setting that doesn't skimp on the heat of a fervent love affair.
The Hidden Child - Thryft

The Hidden Child

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

65% off est. retail
If you're a fan of seamlessly intertwining timelines, "The Hidden Child" promises a riveting ride through history and modern mystery. Camilla Läckberg's talent for crafting a psychological thriller that digs into Europe's darkest past while keeping you engrossed in a contemporary crime story is on full display. It's for readers who love complex characters, chilling secrets, and narrative threads that come together with satisfying precision.
Beyond Recall - Thryft

Beyond Recall

$12.90 $3.90 70% off

$12.90 $3.90 70% off

76% off est. retail
"Beyond Recall" draws you in with a compelling blend of family secrets and timelines. It's not just for mystery enthusiasts, but also for those who appreciate a rich, character-driven narrative. The intertwining of past and present adds depth, making it an intriguing puzzle that beckons you to unravel it along with Chris Napier. If you've got a penchant for meticulously crafted stories that bridge generations, this could be a title you'll want to dive into.
The History of Love
Nicole Krauss | Penguin Books

The History of Love

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

78% off est. retail
This book is a beautiful exploration of the enduring power of love and the written word. It follows the intertwining stories of Alma Singer, a young girl searching for a cure for her mother's loneliness, and Leo Gursky, an old man reminiscing about lost love and the book that changed his life. The History of Love is a poignant and moving novel that will leave you reflecting on the depth and resilience of the human spirit.
Time's Arrow
Martin Amis | Vintage

Time's Arrow

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$8.26

"Time's Arrow" offers a unique reading experience that flips your perspective on time and morality. Amis crafts a story that rewinds through the protagonist's life, presenting a haunting narrative that converges history and personal identity. It's an intelligent and provocative exploration that becomes especially compelling as you near the crux of the tale, where past atrocities are eerily unearthed. This book might just change the way you perceive storytelling.
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.
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.
Violeta
Sold out
Isabel Allende

Violeta

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

60% off est. retail
"Violeta" is like stepping into a sweeping historical tapestry, woven by the masterful Isabel Allende. If you're someone who relishes diving into expansive sagas that span generations, exploring the depths of a character's life from youth to old age, this story will captivate you. It's for readers who find beauty in the resilience of the human spirit, set against the backdrop of historical events.
The Dark Room
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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.
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
Sold out
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.
Fragrant Harbour - Thryft
Sold out
John Lanchester | Faber & Faber

Fragrant Harbour

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

62% off est. retail
If you have an interest in the ebb and flow of history as it affects individual lives, "Fragrant Harbour" might be right up your alley. It's more than just a story; it's an evocative tapestry of personal narratives set against the rich backdrop of Hong Kong's transformation. This book will draw you in with its deep dive into how a place's changing fortunes can shape destinies, offering a poignant look at the past century through intimate eyes.
Wings - Thryft
Sold out
Danielle Steel | Corgi Books

Wings

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$8.26

77% off est. retail
From small-town America to a world on the cusp of World War II, Wings is an uplifting story about one woman's fight to fulfil her dreams.From her family's dusty farmland airstrip near Chicago, Cassie O'Malley would look at the planes shimmering in the moonlight and feel the pull of taking to the skies. Her First World War veteran father Pat wanted his son to be a pilot, not his reckless red-haired daughter. But her father's partner Nick, fellow air ace, was willing to break all the rules and teach her to fly.When Cassie is invited to California to become a test pilot, her record-breaking flights make her a media darling. Risking her life, in a world preparing for the Second World War, she decides to chart her own course and pursue her own destiny, whatever it might cost her . . .
Lone Eagle - Thryft
Sold out
Danielle Steel | Corgi

Lone Eagle

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$8.26

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Danielle Steel's fifty-first bestselling novel tells the story of an extraordinary man, the woman who loved him, and a bond so powerful it could never be broken. It is about finding the courage to let someone you love fly free....The phone call came on a snowy December afternoon. Kate was certain it was Joe, the brilliant, visionary man who had been her soulmate, her driving force since the night they met, almost thirty-four years before. What she got was the one call she had never wanted, and didn't expect. As the snow continued to fall, Kate's mind drifted back, to the moment when she and Joe first met. She had been just seventeen and he was young, powerful, dazzling, and different from any man she'd ever known.It was just days before Christmas, 1940. The war is raging in Europe when Kate Jamison makes her debut in New York City. In a room filled with the scions of East Coast society and the leading political figures of the day, it is Joe Allbright who catches Kate's eye. At twenty-nine, Joe is the brilliant protege of Charles Lindbergh, and already a legend in flying circles for his record-breaking speed and state-of-the-art airplane designs. All Kate sees is a tall, strikingly handsome man who seems at once awkward and larger-than-life, like a shining star -- just out of reach. Joe, too, is caught off balance by his response to Kate, seeing in this beautiful young woman vitality and youth, the lifelong soulmate he never expected to find. As the months pass, they will meet again, forging a bond that will set the course of both their lives. Kate will go off to study at Radcliffe. Joe will skyrocket to fame in modern aviation. Joe's planes are his life, his passion. But irresistibly drawn to her, like moth to flame, he always comes back to Kate. Even after the long, dark years of World War II, when Kate was sure she had finally lost him completely, Joe returns. Never willing to stay, always needing to fly away. As planes are for him, Joe is the passion in her life.When the war is over, at twenty-four Kate wants marriage and a family. Joe wants the world, his limitless horizons, and the unique aviation empire he is building. Unwilling to wait any longer, Kate moves on with her life. But when a chance encounter brings them together again, the time has finally come to make a choice, one that will have profound consequences for them both for the rest of their lives. Against a vivid backdrop of war and thrilling innovation, Danielle Steel breathes life into history, weaving an intensely human story that spans three decades, of two intensely different people who, in spite of themselves, are irrevocably woven into the fabric of each other's lives. With rare insight and emotional power, she brings to life a tale of unconditional love, sacrifice, and compromise -- the joining of two remarkable halves into a single, far more powerful whole. It is a novel of extraordinary grace and compassion from a master storyteller, perhaps the best story she has told.

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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.