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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he : A Novel - Thryft
John Connolly | Hodder & Stoughton Ltd

he : A Novel

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Goodreads rating: 4.0

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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.
Where My Heart Used to Beat
Sebastian Faulks | Random House Uk

Where My Heart Used to Beat

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Goodreads rating: 3.67

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"Where My Heart Used to Beat" weaves a poignant narrative through the inner turmoil of Robert Hendricks, a character who feels so real, you'll find yourself immersed in his reflections on love, loss, and the scars of war. The dance between past and present in Faulks' storytelling can make the heart ache while igniting a deep appreciation for the complex tapestry of a life lived in the shadows of history. It's the kind of book that grips you subtly and is particularly resonant for anyone fascinated by the lasting effects of time on the human spirit.
Hothouse Flower
Lucinda Riley | Penguin

Hothouse Flower

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Goodreads rating: 4.01

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"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.
Where My Heart Used to Beat
Sebastian Faulks | Vintage

Where My Heart Used to Beat

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Goodreads rating: 3.67

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If historical depth and personal introspection intrigue you, 'Where My Heart Used to Beat' offers a poignant exploration. As you follow Hendricks's journey, you'll find yourself immersed in a narrative that weaves through the complexities of a life marked by war and love. Faulks crafts a story that not only captures the haunting echoes of the past but also holds a mirror to the human experience. A thoughtful read for those who appreciate a blend of history, psychology, and rich storytelling.
All Our Brave, Earthly Scars
Danielle Lim | Penguin Random House Southeast Asia

All Our Brave, Earthly Scars

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Goodreads rating: 4.15

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If you're drawn to stories that weave historical events with personal sagas, "All Our Brave, Earthly Scars" could really resonate with you. Danielle Lim crafts a narrative that binds the intimate with the expansive, exploring love's fragility against the backdrop of real-world disasters. The emotional depth and the exploration of elemental forces in human lives might just stir something profound within you.
Only Enchanting : Flavian's Story - Thryft
Mary Balogh | Signet

Only Enchanting : Flavian's Story

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Goodreads rating: 3.96

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"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.
Everything Is Illuminated
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Jonathan Safran Foer | Penguin Books Ltd

Everything Is Illuminated

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Goodreads rating: 3.89

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"Everything Is Illuminated" is a profound journey that intertwines humor with deep emotional resonance. If you're drawn to stories that explore the roots of family and self amidst the backdrop of history, this book is an incredible tapestry to lose yourself in. Foer's imaginative narrative structure and linguistic playfulness make for an unforgettable reading adventure.
The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared
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Imagine feeling confined, craving adventure despite a century of life behind you—that's Allan Karlsson for you. "The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared" offers humor and history woven into a story of rebelliousness against the mundane. It's an encouragement to embrace life's unpredictability and a reminder that it's never too late to start an adventure. If the idea of a daring escape and a rollicking journey tickles your fancy, Allan's story will be a delightful read.
New York - Thryft
Edward Rutherfurd | Century

New York

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Goodreads rating: 4.17

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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.
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close

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Recommended for readers who enjoy heart-wrenching stories about grief, love, and healing. Foer's poetic prose and unique storytelling style make this a must-read for anyone who enjoys literary fiction. The story follows nine-year-old Oskar on a quest to find a lock that could be opened by a key left behind by his father who died in 9/11. Along the way, Oskar meets various people and learns important lessons about life, love, and family.
Everything Is Illuminated
Jonathan Safran Foer | Penguin Books

Everything Is Illuminated

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Goodreads rating: 3.89

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If you're fascinated by the interplay between past and present, "Everything Is Illuminated" offers a deep, yet quirky exploration of ancestry. Foer's comedic and poignant narrative, woven through the perspective of a translator with a unique relationship to English, adds a layer of charming absurdity to the compelling quest of self-discovery. The blend of humor and pathos makes it a beautifully balanced read.
And the Mountains Echoed
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Khaled Hosseini | Riverhead Books

And the Mountains Echoed

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Goodreads rating: 4.07

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If you're in search of a story that resonates with the heart's capacity for love and the reverberations of our choices across generations, "And the Mountains Echoed" could be a powerful read for you. Khaled Hosseini has a gift for weaving complex relationships and emotional landscapes, which might just leave you with a new perspective on the ties that bind us. This book is likely to linger in your mind long after you turn the last page.
Great House
Nicole Krauss | Viking

Great House

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Goodreads rating: 3.49

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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 Rice Mother
Rani Manicka | Hodder

The Rice Mother

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Goodreads rating: 4.16

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"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.
Homer and Langley
E.L. Doctorow | Random House

Homer and Langley

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Goodreads rating: 3.63

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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 Storyteller
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Jodi Picoult | Hodder Paperback

The Storyteller

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Goodreads rating: 4.3

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"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.
Miss Burma
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Charmaine Craig | Grove Press Uk

Miss Burma

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Goodreads rating: 3.61

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Miss Burma is a compelling read for anyone interested in the resilience of family bonds against a backdrop of historical strife. Charmaine Craig weaves a rich narrative that offers a deeply personal look into Burma's complex political landscape. It's a thought-provoking novel that not only educates but also immerses you in the trials and triumphs of a family's journey through generations.
Freud's Sister
Christina E. Kramer, Goce Smilevski  | Penguin Books Usa

Freud's Sister

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Goodreads rating: 3.49

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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.
Woman on Fire
Lisa Barr | Welbeck

Woman on Fire

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Goodreads rating: 4.0

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You'll find "Woman on Fire" ignites a vibrant tapestry of human emotion and history's enigmatic twists around a remarkable piece of art. This read is laced with secrets that unravel through an intricate plot, ideal for your craving for depth with a side of romance and rejuvenation. It's the perfect spark for readers drawn to fiery heroines and the compelling power of artistry.
The Scent Of Lemon Leaves - Thryft
Clara Sánchez | Alma Books

The Scent Of Lemon Leaves

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Goodreads rating: 3.36

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The Scent of Lemon Leaves is a captivating novel that takes you on a journey of self-discovery in a picturesque Spanish village. It explores themes of friendship, love, loss and betrayal. The unique feature of the book is the unexpected plot twists that keep you engaged till the very end. If you enjoy stories of personal growth and emotional depth, this book is for you.
Everything Is Illuminated
New
Jonathan Safran Foer | Penguin Books

Everything Is Illuminated

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Goodreads rating: 3.89

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"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.
Quarantine
Jim Crace | Farrar Straus Giroux

Quarantine

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Goodreads rating: 3.68

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"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.
The Dead
New
Christian Kracht, Daniel Bowles  | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

The Dead

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Goodreads rating: 3.44

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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.
Shining Sea
Anne Korkeakivi | Little, Brown And Company

Shining Sea

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Goodreads rating: 3.6

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"Shining Sea" could resonate with you if family dynamics set against the backdrop of historical events pique your interest. Anne Korkeakivi crafts a narrative that's as expansive as it is intimate, delving into the complexities of the human spirit. Imagine being swept across time and space, witnessing personal triumphs and tribulations that feel incredibly real. This book might just be the emotional and historical journey you've been looking to embark on.
Silk
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Guido Waldman, Alessandro Baricco  | Vintage

Silk

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Goodreads rating: 3.85

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"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.
Neuland - Thryft

Neuland

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Goodreads rating: 3.91

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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.
Gravel Heart
Abdulrazak Gurnah | Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Gravel Heart

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Goodreads rating: 3.98

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"Gravel Heart" could resonate with you if you're interested in the intricacies of family dynamics and the struggle for personal identity. The protagonist's journey from Zanzibar to London offers a deep dive into the immigrant experience, making it a relatable read for anyone who's ever sought belonging between two worlds. Its vivid prose and emotional depth make the narrative both riveting and thought-provoking.
A Reunion of Ghosts
Judith Claire Mitchell | 4th Estate

A Reunion of Ghosts

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Goodreads rating: 3.43

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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.
Last of Her Name: A Novella & Stories
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Mimi Lok | Kaya Press

Last of Her Name: A Novella & Stories

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Goodreads rating: 4.11

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"Last of Her Name" stands out as a riveting assembly of stories that feels both intimate and expansive. It weaves a tapestry of experiences from different eras and locations, all while exploring the powerful themes of identity, memory, and the multitude of ways women navigate their lives amidst the pressures of history and culture. If you're someone who appreciates narratives that delve into the complexity of human connections and the personal as political, Mimi Lok's award-winning collection could be a profoundly moving read for you.
The Company You Keep
Neil Gordon | Picador

The Company You Keep

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Goodreads rating: 3.63

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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.
Water for Elephants
Sara Gruen | Hodder & Stoughton

Water for Elephants

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Goodreads rating: 4.11

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If you're looking to escape into a bygone era filled with passion, adventure, and an unlikely romance, then "Water for Elephants" can take you there. Sara Gruen's rich narrative whisks you away to the lively world of a 1930s circus, offering a tender story that unfolds with the same cadence and spectacle as the setting itself. It's a poignant journey through love, compassion, and resilience that'll leave you clutching the book long after the final page.
In the Unlikely Event - Thryft
Judy Blume | Picador: Pan Macmillan Australia

In the Unlikely Event

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Goodreads rating: 3.56

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"In the Unlikely Event is a memorable novel that portrays how the lives of different people interweave and change following a life-shattering incident. The author's unique writing style brings out different themes such as family, love, and friendship, and the effect that trauma can have on people's lives."
Numero Zero
Umberto Eco | Penguin Random House

Numero Zero

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Goodreads rating: 3.17

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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.
Water for Elephants
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Sara Gruen | Algonquin Books

Water for Elephants

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Goodreads rating: 4.11

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If the allure of 1930s circus life catches your fancy, Sara Gruen's "Water for Elephants" could be the escape you need. It's a vivid foray into an intense world of love, cruelty, and the fight for survival during America's hardest economic time. Reading about Jacob's unexpected journey, with its blend of gritty realities and the emotional resonance of finding one's true community, might just consume your imagination and heart, much like a high-flying trapeze act that leaves you aching for more.
The Dandelion Years
Erica James | Orion Books

The Dandelion Years

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Goodreads rating: 3.97

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"The Dandelion Years" by Erica James is a poignant journey into the past wrapped in a contemporary setting. If you cherish novels that merge history with the art of book restoration, illuminating life's delicate resilience like a dandelion in the breeze, this story is quietly powerful. It's a tender exploration of love and loss, perfect for anyone who believes in the eternal resonance of a heartfelt tale, especially when discovered among the pages of forgotten books.
A Shout In The Ruins - Thryft
Powers Kevin | Hachette

A Shout In The Ruins

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Goodreads rating: 3.64

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"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.
French Blues - Thryft
Paul Rambali | Vintage/ebury (a Division Of Random House Group)

French Blues

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Goodreads rating: 3.0

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'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.
Welcome To The World Baby Girl - Thryft
Fannie Flagg | Vintage

Welcome To The World Baby Girl

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Goodreads rating: 3.91

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

The Things We Did for Love

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Goodreads rating: 3.55

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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.
Amagansett
Mark Mills | Fourth Estate

Amagansett

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Goodreads rating: 3.71

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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.
Property
Valerie Martin | Abacus

Property

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Goodreads rating: 3.69

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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.
Icy Sparks - Thryft
Gwyn Hyman Rubio | Penguin Books

Icy Sparks

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Goodreads rating: 3.7

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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.
The First Casualty - Thryft
Ben Elton | Bantam Press

The First Casualty

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Goodreads rating: 3.94

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The First Casualty could be an excellent read for those interested in historical fiction, particularly about trench warfare during World War I. Ben Elton's novel captures the horrors of war in a gripping manner while also exploring important moral questions about justice and truth. Readers are bound to be moved by the story of Douglas Konig, a conscientious objector, whose investigation of a murder is set against the backdrop of one of the deadliest battles of the war. Overall, The First Casualty is a powerful work that offers profound insights into the human cost of war.
Panama - Thryft
Eric Zencey | Farrar, Straus & Giroux

Panama

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Goodreads rating: 3.19

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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.
Memories of the Ford Administration
John Updike | Gardners

Memories of the Ford Administration

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Goodreads rating: 3.3

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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.
Silk
Ann Goldstein, Alessandro Baricco  | Canongate Publishing

Silk

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Goodreads rating: 3.85

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"Silk" is a journey that's as delicate as it is daring, much like the fabric it's named after. This book not only offers an escape to a different time and place but stitches together the depths of love and the complexities of desire in a way that's bound to leave a lasting impression, just as the finest silk would on your skin. It's a read that could wrap you in its narrative, making it hard to put down.
Sucking Shrimp
Stephanie Theobald | Flame

Sucking Shrimp

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Goodreads rating: 2.67

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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 History of Love
Nicole Krauss | Penguin Books

The History of Love

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Goodreads rating: 3.92

Regular price $8.90 $3.90 56% off

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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.
The Mammy
Brendan O'Carroll | Gardners Books

The Mammy

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Goodreads rating: 4.1

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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.
The Pirate's Daughter - Thryft
Margaret Cezair-Thompson | Headline Publishing Group

The Pirate's Daughter

Regular price $11.90 $4.90 59% off

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Goodreads rating: 3.51

Regular price $11.90 $4.90 59% off

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65% off est. retail
"The Pirate's Daughter" is a beautifully written story that takes place in Jamaica, spanning over three decades of the country's history. The book offers an engaging narrative, full of passion, forbidden love, and the struggles of women fighting for survival, making it an excellent read for lovers of historical fiction. Margaret Cezair-Thompson's writing is poetic, which adds an entirely different layer to the story's depth and complexity. It is highly recommended for readers interested in a bit of adventure, history, and romance.

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.