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Literary Fiction Books

Immerse yourself in our Literary Fiction collection at Thryft, featuring works by revered authors and fresh voices alike. Discover stories that explore the depths of human experience and provoke thoughtful reflection. Ideal for both established aficionados and newcomers eager to explore the literary world.
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My Mother, Madame Edwarda, The Dead Man
Yukio Mishima, Austryn Wainhouse, Georges Bataille  | Penguin Books

My Mother, Madame Edwarda, The Dead Man

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$8.90

If you're intrigued by the raw interplay of sexuality and existential philosophy, Georges Bataille's work will likely resonate with you. "My Mother, Madame Edwarda, The Dead Man" explores the edges of human experience, pushing boundaries with a blend of profanity and sanctity. His prose is not for the faint-hearted, but for those seeking literature that challenges moral conventions and explores the depths of personal experience.
Blonde Venus
Paula Byrne | William Collins

Blonde Venus

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.24

$8.90

47% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the glamour of old Hollywood and the often painful cost of fame, "Blonde Venus" provides a compelling narrative. Paula Byrne's portrayal of Madou, inspired by Marlene Dietrich, captures the paradox of beauty and celebrity in a story that's as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. It's a must-read for those intrigued by the complexities of a mother-daughter relationship shadowed by stardom.
All About Sarah
Pauline Delabroy-Allard | Vintage

All About Sarah

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.46

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

If you've ever felt like life was monotonously ticking away, "All About Sarah" could offer an exciting jolt. It vividly depicts how a single, charismatic individual can turn everything upside down, making you feel every heartbeat of its chaos and fire. Sarah’s character is a force that might inspire you to find the extraordinary in your ordinary.
All the Light We Cannot See
Anthony Doerr | Fourth Estate

All the Light We Cannot See

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.31

$8.90

Imagine being immersed in the lives of Marie-Laure, a blind French girl, and Werner, a young German soldier, as their paths collide amidst the devastation of World War II. "All the Light We Cannot See" offers a beautifully crafted narrative that illuminates the human spirit's resilience. If you're drawn to stories that weave history and heartbreak with a touch of hopeful luminosity, this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Anthony Doerr is a radiant choice for you.
Swimming Home
Deborah Levy | And Other Stories

Swimming Home

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.41

$9.90

60% off est. retail
"Swimming Home" seems to weave a delicate tapestry of human frailty and emotional turbulence. If you're drawn to stories that strip away the veneer of everyday life to expose the raw and sometimes painful reality beneath, this might resonate deeply with you. Levy's literary craftsmanship transforms a seemingly idyllic setting into a stage for psychological unraveling, making for an intense, yet beautifully written read.
Terra Amata
J.M.G. Le Clézio | Penguin Books Ltd

Terra Amata

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.62

$9.90

"Terra Amata" offers a poetic, deeply immersive journey into the essence of human existence through the eyes of Chancelade. Its vivid descriptions of the natural world and meditations on our connection to the earth will resonate with anyone looking to find profundity in the everyday. This read would suit those who love rich, sensory language and existential contemplation.
The Map and the Territory
Michel Houellebecq | Vintage Books

The Map and the Territory

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$8.90

If the blend of art-world satire and a peculiar crime narrative intrigues you, "The Map and the Territory" could be the captivating read you're looking for. Houellebecq's skill in weaving existential threads with dark humor offers an experience that's both intellectually stimulating and bizarrely entertaining. It's a book that's likely to linger in your thoughts, much like an enigmatic painting that keeps drawing you back for another look.
The Girl at the Lion D'Or
Sebastian Faulks | Vintage

The Girl at the Lion D'Or

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.59

$8.90

If you're enticed by historical settings woven with poignant love stories, "The Girl at the Lion d'Or" might just tug at your heartstrings. Sebastian Faulks's writing transports you to a 1930s France that's both charming and melancholic, making the ill-fated romance between the young waitress and the married man an emotionally rich journey. It's a vivid portrayal of love, longing, and the societal constraints of the time.
In Our Strange Gardens
Barbara Bray, Michel Quint  | Penguin Books Ltd

In Our Strange Gardens

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.49

$11.90

61% off est. retail
"In Our Strange Gardens" offers a gripping narrative that burrows deep into the human condition, particularly when faced with unimaginable choices. It's a poignant look at the bonds formed under duress and a reflection on the values that persist even in the bleakest circumstances. If you're drawn to stories that challenge moral compasses and explore the complexities of friendship and survival, this book will resonate with you deeply.
Trespass
Rose Tremain | Random House Export

Trespass

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.58

$8.90

Trespass weaves together the complexities of strained family dynamics and the influence of an external force that unsettles the fragile balance. Rose Tremain masterfully depicts the tension that arises when past resentments re-emerge, making it a compelling read for those interested in deep character study and the human psyche's delicate equilibrium.
I Love You Too Much
Alicia Drake | Picador

I Love You Too Much

$11.90 $9.90 17% off

Goodreads rating: 3.44

$11.90 $9.90 17% off

67% off est. retail
"I Love You Too Much" by Alicia Drake brings you into the heart of Paris through the eyes of young Paul. If you've ever felt invisible in a world obsessed with appearances, this book will resonate with you. Paul's journey deals with the poignant realities of growing up and seeking love, all set against a backdrop of Parisian elegance that often feels cold to a boy just looking for warmth. This narrative might just change the way you see the city of lights and the pains of adolescence.
The Elegance of the Hedgehog
Alison Anderson, Muriel Barbery  | Gallic Books

The Elegance of the Hedgehog

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$8.90

'The Elegance of the Hedgehog' is a gem for anyone interested in exploring the deeper intricacies of human nature and the stark contrasts of social class under the veneer of a bustling Paris. With its rich character development, the novel hooks you into the lives of two very different individuals united by their disdain for the shallow life scripts laid out for them. This book digs beneath the surface, offering a poignant, sometimes witty contemplation of existence, art, and beauty. If you appreciate novels that aren't just stories, but deep reflections that stay with you, Rene and Paloma's journey promises to be a memorable one.
Customer Service: The Contemporary Art of the Novella
Bruce Benderson, Benoît Duteurtre  | Melville House

Customer Service: The Contemporary Art of the Novella

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.26

$8.90

Imagine you've lost something indispensable: your precious smartphone, and the only way to retrieve it is to navigate the nightmarish labyrinth called customer service. "Customer Service" satirizes this all-too-familiar modern struggle with sharp wit and relentless humor. It's short, at just 74 pages, so it's perfect if you're looking for a quick read that mirrors the absurdity of our tech-reliant lives through the lens of a writer praised by the likes of Samuel Beckett and Milan Kundera. Duteurtre's unique voice is sure to provide both laughter and a critical eye on daily conveniences.
The Uncommon Reader
Just Arrived
Alan Bennett | Faber And Faber

The Uncommon Reader

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.73

$8.90

51% off est. retail
If you've ever thought royalty stick solely to tradition and protocol, "The Uncommon Reader" will charm you with its delightful premise of the Queen herself becoming enamored with the world of books. Alan Bennett spins a tale that's both subversive and heartwarming, inviting you to ponder the transformative power of reading. It's a short read, but it's rich with wit and a gentle nudge to rediscover your own love for literature.
Consolation - Thryft
Anna Gavalda | Chatto & Windus

Consolation

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.54

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

"Consolation," more than its title suggests, is a journey through the merits of reflecting on past loves and the potential for rebirth in unexpected places. As Charles's world tumbles, Gavalda expertly weaves the beauty of human connections, with characters that are as flawed as they are endearing. This novel promises to touch your heart with its profound take on life's unpredictable ability to heal us. If you've loved and lost, this book is a balm, reading as an ode to the resilience of the human spirit.
Remedy - Thryft
Anne Marsella | Clearway Logistics Phase 2-3

Remedy

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.14

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

74% off est. retail
Remedy would be a good read for someone who enjoys witty, character-driven novels set in charming locations. This book offers a unique perspective on Parisian life that is not often portrayed in literature. The protagonist, Remedy, is a relatable and endearing character who navigates her way through various experiences with humor and introspection. The book's mix of spirituality and romanticism will resonate with readers seeking inspiration and enlightenment.
Hector and the Search for Lost Time
François Lelord | Penguin Books

Hector and the Search for Lost Time

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

77% off est. retail
If time has ever felt like a fierce current sweeping you along, "Hector and the Search for Lost Time" could be a beacon of understanding for you. Hector's travels and insights provide a charming narrative that explores universal concerns about time in a light, philosophical manner. Reading it offers a chance to pause and reflect, just like Hector, on how to savor the present.
The Red Collar
Jean-Christophe Rufin, Adriana Hunter  | Europa Editions

The Red Collar

$12.90 $10.90 16% off

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$12.90 $10.90 16% off

For those who savor tales of unyielding loyalty and the human spirit, "The Red Collar" could resonate deeply with you. The backdrop of post-World War France combined with the emotional bond between a man and his dog creates an evocative narrative. It's a story that celebrates profound connections and the complexities of redemption, all wonderfully framed by Rufin's poetic touch.
Elegance - Thryft
Kathleen Tessaro | Harpercollins Publishers Ltd

Elegance

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.42

$3.90

82% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for you because it takes you on a journey of personal transformation through the lens of elegance. It shows how a simple discovery of a second-hand book can have a profound impact on one's life. As Louise takes Madame Dariaux's advice to heart, her life begins to change in unexpected ways, teaching us that true elegance goes beyond appearances. With its mix of fashion advice, personal anecdotes, and self-discovery, this book is a delightful and inspiring read for anyone looking to rediscover themselves and embrace their own unique elegance.
Hector and the Secrets of Love
François Lelord, Lorenza García  | Penguin Publishing Group

Hector and the Secrets of Love

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.46

$3.90

This book is a heartfelt exploration of the complexities of love. With a blend of fairy tale wisdom and sharp wit, it takes readers on a globetrotting adventure alongside Hector, a French psychiatrist, and Clara, the love of his life. As they both investigate the secrets of love, this novel will make you reflect on the nature of love and its profound impact on happiness. Get ready to be enchanted by this feel-good story that will leave you pondering the mysteries of the human soul.
The Complete Wild Body
Bernard Lafourcade, Wyndham Lewis  | Black Sparrow Press

The Complete Wild Body

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

75% off est. retail
This isn't your average read; it's a literary odyssey that delves deep into the physicality and the primal aspects of human existence. It's a ticket into a lush and untamed mental wilderness that could resonate with anyone looking to explore the depths of their senses and instincts. If you crave a narrative that gnaws at the raw edges of being, "The Complete Wild Body" could be a compelling companion.
Man's Estate
André Malraux | Penguin Books Ltd

Man's Estate

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$8.90

"Man's Estate" immerses you in the complexities of a revolutionary struggle, connecting deeply with the human condition. Malraux masterfully weaves philosophical inquiry with the raw emotions and actions of individuals in the throes of societal upheaval. A compelling read for those who appreciate historical dramas that also serve as a canvas for exploring existential themes.
You Deserve Nothing
Alexander Maksik | John Murray

You Deserve Nothing

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.56

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

58% off est. retail
"You Deserve Nothing" is a gripping story that explores the relationship between Will, a charismatic teacher, and his students in an international high school in Paris. The book offers a unique perspective on the complexities of moral dilemmas faced by teachers and the coming of age experiences of their students. Readers will be captivated by the forbidden romance between Will and Marie, a story that is both alluring and deeply uncomfortable. It is an excellent read for anyone interested in exploring the boundaries between power, sexuality, and morality.
Dear Reader
David Bellos, Paul Fournel  | Pushkin Collection

Dear Reader

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.47

$10.90

If you find yourself chuckling at the peculiarities of the literary world, "Dear Reader" is a treasure trove of wit that will resonate with you. Blending the nostalgia of old publishing with the digital shake-up, it treats the industry's evolution with humor and heart. Imagine lifting the curtain to peek backstage of the book world—this read does it with a wink and a smile.
Tender Is the Night
F. Scott Fitzgerald | Harper Collins

Tender Is the Night

$6.90

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$6.90

Imagine diving into the world of the 1920s French Riviera, where the allure of wealth and status intertwines with the complexities of the human psyche. "Tender Is the Night" by F Scott Fitzgerald is not just for fans of the Jazz Age glitz but for those who seek a deeper reflection on how our facades often cover deeply fractured personal lives. Fitzgerald's personal struggles breathe authenticity into this tale, making it a poignant exploration of love, disillusionment, and the all-consuming nature of idealism gone awry.
The Three Musketeers - Thryft

The Three Musketeers

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Let the daring escapades of d'Artagnan and the Three Musketeers transport you to a world of honor, adventure, and loyalty. Join this band of brothers as they face off against the cunning Cardinal de Richelieu and his agents, including the enigmatic Milady de Winter. With its thrilling duels and romantic twists, The Three Musketeers is a timeless tale of friendship and heroism that will keep you hooked till the very end. Jump into this classic masterpiece and unleash your inner Musketeer!
How I Became Stupid - Thryft
Martin Page | Penguin Books

How I Became Stupid

$3.57

Goodreads rating: 3.39

$3.57

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

Candide

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$3.90

60% off est. retail
Candide is a great read for those who appreciate satire and dark humor. Voltaire uses the story of Candide to expose the hypocrisy of human nature and challenge the overly optimistic philosophy of his time. The book comments on religion, politics, social class, and more, all while keeping readers engaged with its fast-paced plot and witty dialogue.
A Year In The Merde - Thryft

A Year In The Merde

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

This book is perfect for anyone looking for a hilarious and eye-opening look into the quirks and idiosyncrasies of French culture. Through witty anecdotes and laugh-out-loud moments, Stephen Clarke takes you on a journey through the joys and challenges of being a Brit in France. From navigating French meetings to dealing with grumpy Parisian waiters, this book will entertain and educate you about life in the merde.
Hector and the Search for Happiness
François Lelord | Penguin Books

Hector and the Search for Happiness

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.48

$8.26

65% off est. retail
"Hector and the Search for Happiness" might just be the uplifting read you need. As Hector journeys across the globe, you'll be invited to explore various cultures and their notions of happiness. It's a light, yet meaningful narrative that's perfect for anyone who enjoys introspective adventures with a good dash of charm. The simplicity and optimism of Hector's discoveries are likely to leave you reflecting on your own happiness long after you turn the final page.
A Simple Heart - Thryft
Charlotte Mandell, Gustave Flaubert  | Melville House

A Simple Heart - The Art of the Novella

$4.90

Goodreads rating: 3.45

$4.90

A Simple Heart could be a good read for those who enjoy poignant stories with a focus on the details of everyday life. This novella, written by Gustave Flaubert, is a touching tribute to a servant woman's search for love. The virtuosic gift for telling detail and the emphasis on bourgeois life make this book a great example of realism. The book's unique feature is its ability to showcase how beauty is the object of the author's efforts.
Le Mariage
Diane Johnson | Plume

Le Mariage

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.09

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

75% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the elegance and intricacies of French culture, "Le Mariage" could be a delightful escape. With its rich tapestry of family secrets and the charming backdrop of a French chateau, the book is a warm invitation to explore the depths of tradition and the complexities of love and connection between two intertwined families. It might be the perfect read for those moments when you yearn for a touch of romance and culture-rich narrative.
The Man Who Planted Trees
Jean Giono, Norma Goodrich, Wangari Maathai  | Chelsea Green

The Man Who Planted Trees

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$8.90

64% off est. retail
If you're looking for a book that encapsulates hope and the power of individual action, "The Man Who Planted Trees" could be a heartwarming choice. This story is not just a testament to environmental stewardship, but also a meditative reflection on how perseverance and one man’s simple commitment can yield life-changing results for the planet. Its succinct narrative is a poetic reminder that even the smallest actions can lead to a ripple effect of positive change.

Dive Deeper into the Literary Realm

At Thryft, our Literary Fiction collection brings you an array of gripping narratives and powerful prose. We curate books that challenge, provoke, and inspire readers to think beyond the ordinary. From time-tested classics to modern masterpieces, each piece offers a new journey into the complexities of life and humanity. Whether you're seeking a profound story or a gentle reminder of life's beauty, our selection is here to enrich your reading experience.