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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Jerusalem Commands
Michael Moorcock | Phoenix

Jerusalem Commands

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Goodreads rating: 4.25

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If you're after an adventure through the tumultuous early decades of the 20th century, embodied by a protagonist who’s as flawed as he is fascinating, "Jerusalem Commands" could be just what you're looking for. Pyat's picaresque journey through the interwar years is a blend of historical insight and pure escapism, offering a front-row seat to the era's defining moments through the eyes of an undeniably charismatic anti-hero.
The Pearl
John Steinbeck | Pearson Schools

The Pearl

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Goodreads rating: 3.56

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82% off est. retail
If you're drawn to tales that blend simplicity with deep life lessons, Steinbeck's "The Pearl" is a must-read. You'll journey with the protagonist as the blessing of sudden fortune reveals its true nature as a curse, a narrative filled with symbolism and themes as relevant today as when it was penned. This novel is a short but powerful parable on the corrupting nature of wealth and the true cost of ambition, perfect for an afternoon of profound reflection.
Burning Walls for Paper Spirits
Just Arrived
Ann Ang | Pagesetters

Burning Walls for Paper Spirits

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Goodreads rating: 3.86

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50% off est. retail
This feels like poetry for anyone who has ever looked at an ordinary object and sensed a strange, private life inside it. Ann Ang writes with wit and sharp originality, turning clutter, paper, rain, and walls into something intimate and haunting. If you like poems that are playful on the surface but quietly devastating underneath, this one will likely stay with you.
The Emperor's Children - Thryft

The Emperor's Children

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90% off est. retail
This book is a captivating exploration of the intertwining lives of three friends in New York City. The author skillfully captures the complexities of ambition, friendship, and the pursuit of success. With its richly drawn characters and engrossing storyline, The Emperor's Children immerses readers in a world of glamour, self-discovery, and the consequences of unexpected decisions. A must-read for anyone seeking a beautifully observed novel that delves into the hopes, dreams, and challenges of a generation navigating adulthood in a fast-paced city.
Exploring English 1 - Thryft

Exploring English 1

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Goodreads rating: 4.56

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87% off est. retail
Exploring English 1 could be a good read for someone who is interested in Irish literature, or for someone who wants to understand more about the history and evolution of English language teaching. This anthology of short stories introduces the work of some of Ireland's most famous writers, and has been cherished by generations of Irish students. Reading this book could be a nostalgic trip down memory lane for some, while for others it is an excellent way to familiarize themselves with the works of Irish writers in the English language.
Made of Wood - Flying Colours
Julie Haydon | Cengage Learning Australia

Made of Wood - Flying Colours

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Goodreads rating: 0.0

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If you've ever been curious about the secret life of wood before it becomes the everyday items surrounding you, "Made of Wood" could offer you a delightful peek behind the curtain. Julie Haydon takes you through the process with simplicity and clarity, making this perfect for anyone interested in the craftsmanship of wood or passionate about sustainable sourcing and the lifecycle of materials.
Old Wives' Tales - Thryft

Old Wives' Tales

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Old Wives' Tales is a fascinating exploration of traditional knowledge, science, and superstition. Nicolette Yeo dives into the origins and meanings behind common old wives' tales, providing readers with an eye-opening glimpse into the intersection of modern life and ancient wisdom. This book is perfect for anyone interested in folklore, history, or cultural studies.
What Maisie Knew - Thryft
Henry James | Penguin Books

What Maisie Knew

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Goodreads rating: 3.41

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If you're intrigued by the complexities of family dynamics and the resilience of youth, "What Maisie Knew" could be a poignant pick for you. Henry James masterfully portrays the world through the eyes of a perceptive yet vulnerable child, offering a compelling narrative that tackles the theme of innocence corrupted by adult selfishness and moral ambiguity. It's an exploration of maturity and self-awareness that's as insightful today as it was at the time of its publication.
Jude The Obscure
Thomas Hardy | Wordsworth Editions

Jude The Obscure

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Goodreads rating: 3.83

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51% off est. retail
"Jude the Obscure" might resonate with you if you've ever felt held back by the circumstances of your birth or a rigid society. It's a powerful exploration of ambition, the constraints placed by class, and the personal cost of societal defiance. Thomas Hardy’s prose brings a raw realism to Jude's struggles, evoking empathy for his yearnings and the complexities of human relationships. You'll find it especially poignant if you've faced similar frustrations or find solace in literature that doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of life.
Grey Area
Will Self | Atlantic Monthly Press

Grey Area

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Goodreads rating: 3.65

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74% off est. retail
If you delight in satirical takes on contemporary existence, Will Self's "Grey Area" will tickle your intellect. With its sharp wit and incisive social commentary wrapped in the cloak of dark humor, this book is for readers who love to ponder the peculiarities of our time. The stories stretch reality to shine a light on our collective follies, making "Grey Area" a compelling read with a bite.
Married Woman
Just Arrived
Manju Kapur | Faber

Married Woman

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Goodreads rating: 3.29

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This is a sharp, intimate read for anyone drawn to stories about identity, desire, and the life people perform versus the life they ache for. Astha feels deeply real, and her restlessness gives the novel its emotional pull. It’s especially compelling if you like layered, socially observant fiction that explores marriage, sexuality, and the cost of wanting more.
Indecent Exposure
Tom Sharpe | Pan

Indecent Exposure

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Goodreads rating: 4.12

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Indecent Exposure isn't just a novel, it's a comedic escape. Tom Sharpe whisks you away to Piemburg, dousing serious themes with outrageous humor and biting satire. The absurdity of the characters' quests is a nod to the masterful British traditions of Wodehouse and Waugh, yet it's tinged with a sharp political edge that resonates deeply. Dive in for a riotous, thought-provoking laugh.
Two - Thryft
Sebastian Beaumont | Millivres Prowler Group

Two

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Goodreads rating: 4.17

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82% off est. retail
Beaumont, Sebastian
Skagboys
Just Arrived
Irvine Welsh | Vintage Books

Skagboys

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Goodreads rating: 4.04

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87% off est. retail
If you've ventured through the grimy alleyways of Trainspotting and craved more, "Skagboys" brings you the genesis of those unforgettable characters. Meet Mark Renton and his mates before they fully descended into Edinburgh's heroin abyss. Irvine Welsh serves an unflinching prequel that's as much about the zeitgeist of the 1980s as it is about the characters' harrowing choices. It's Welsh at his visceral, provocative best – a must-read for anyone who finds beauty in the darkest corners of human experience.
The Reading List

The Reading List

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49% off est. retail
"The Reading List" weaves together the enchanting tale of two strangers finding solace and connection in a shared journey through books. As Mukesh and Aleisha dive into each story, they inadvertently embark on a path of self-discovery and companionship. This book is a heartfelt reminder of how literature can be a catalyst for friendship, healing, and new beginnings. It's perfect for anyone who believes in the transformative power of stories to touch lives and bring people closer.
Freedom
Jonathan Franzen | Fisicalbook

Freedom

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Goodreads rating: 3.79

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72% off est. retail
If you've ever questioned the complexities of love, marriage, and personal freedom, then Franzen's "Freedom" could resonate deeply with you. It's a mirror held up to the nuance of contemporary relationships, reflecting on the intricacies of family dynamics, and the paradoxes of the freedoms we cherish. The characters are deeply flawed, relatable, and their struggles are articulated with a raw honesty that might just redefine the way you see life's arbitrary happenings.
The Return of the Native
Thomas Hardy | Wordsworth Editions

The Return of the Native

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Goodreads rating: 3.88

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If you're drawn to the interplay of passionate characters and evocative landscapes, Hardy's "The Return of the Native" might just be your next great read. It's more than just a tale of love and longing; Hardy weaves the environment of Egdon Heath into the story as a powerful force that shapes the destiny of his characters. The book will pull you into a world where human emotions and the natural world are inextricably linked.
Weather: A Novel
Jenny Offill | Granta Books

Weather: A Novel

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Goodreads rating: 3.54

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Weather is a unique novel that explores the impact of climate change and the limitations of human capabilities. Lizzie, a librarian, is hired to answer letters from individuals concerned about the decline of western civilization and climate change. Through this, Lizzie realizes the extent of what she can do to help others. This book is recommended for those interested in climate change and human resilience.
Of the Farm
John Updike | Random House Publishing Group

Of the Farm

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Goodreads rating: 3.49

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78% off est. retail
'Of the Farm' might resonate with you if you've ever grappled with the complexities of family dynamics and the profound sense of identity tied to where one grows up. Updike's finesse in literature blooms in this short novel, painting the subtleties of human relationships with a poignant brush. And if the brevity of a good story appeals to you, the concise pages are likely to leave a lasting impression without overstaying their welcome.
The English Major
Jim Harrison | Grove Press

The English Major

Regular price $10.90 $7.90 28% off

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Goodreads rating: 3.61

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68% off est. retail
If you've ever felt like hitting the reset button on life, "The English Major" could be a companion for your own journey. Cliff's humorous and peculiar venture to rename the states offers a reflection on personal reinvention. It's a midlife crisis road trip wrapped in wry wit and a contemplative look at what it means to start over, making it especially relatable if you're in the mood for a tale about self-discovery and second chances.
Imposters at the Gate: A Novel About Private Equity
Aseem K. Giri | Tusk Pubinc

Imposters at the Gate: A Novel About Private Equity

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Goodreads rating: 2.67

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If you're intrigued by the high-stakes drama of Wall Street and the complexities of personal ideologies clashing with career ambitions, "Imposters at the Gate" could be a compelling read for you. It weaves financial expertise with the narrative flair of a seasoned capitalist's tumultuous journey, all set against an intriguing backdrop of political undertones. Perfect for someone who enjoys a tale where big money and profound personal convictions collide.
Tomas
James Palumbo | Quartet Books

Tomas

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Goodreads rating: 3.03

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If you're the kind of reader who appreciates a quick escape with deep undercurrents, "Tomas" is your perfect pocket companion. It's a daring little tome that packs a punch, with the power to transport you to places that challenge your perceptions. Ideal if you're looking for a read that doesn't just entertain but also confronts and questions.
White City Blue
Tim Lott | Penguin

White City Blue

Regular price $8.90 $6.90 22% off

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Goodreads rating: 3.39

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If you've ever wondered how life's milestones can strain old friendships, "White City Blue" might resonate with you. Frankie Blue's story is a relatable saga about coping with change and the way our bonds are stretched by new chapters. Lott crafts a poignant narrative that digs deep into the complexities of loyalty and growth, inviting you to reflect on your own relationships.
Inventing The Abbotts And Other Stories - Thryft
Sue Miller | Phoenix/orion

Inventing The Abbotts And Other Stories

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Goodreads rating: 3.51

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This collection by Sue Miller dives into the complex fabrics of relationships, the kind that typically sit beneath the surface, unspoken yet felt. Her stories resonate deeply with readers who appreciate mature looks at love, longing, and the intricacies of human connections. If you've ever found your heart tangled in the 'what-ifs' of past and present relationships, these narratives will echo within you.
A Fool's Alphabet
Sebastian Faulks | Vintage

A Fool's Alphabet

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Goodreads rating: 3.28

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If you appreciate a narrative that isn't linear but instead pieces together a life like a puzzle, then "A Fool's Alphabet" could intrigue you. The unique structure, with chapters corresponding to different places alphabetically, provides a literary journey that offers small revelations about Pietro Russell's character with each stop. It's like savoring a mystery where each chapter is a clue to understanding the whole person.
Disgrace
Just Arrived

Disgrace

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Disgrace by J.M. Coetzee is a thought-provoking novel that delves deep into the human psyche, exploring themes of morality and redemption amidst controversy, disgrace and violence. The protagonist, David Lurie's character arc from arrogance to remorse and self-realization is an impressive journey that readers of literary fiction will appreciate. The complex father-daughter relationship and its resolution in the face of adversity is the standout feature that makes this book a must-read.
Yellow Dog
Martin Amis | London : Jonathan Cape

Yellow Dog

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Goodreads rating: 2.79

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If you're looking to delve into the complexities of modern manhood with a sharp wit, "Yellow Dog" by Martin Amis could be just what you need. The intertwining stories of five men, including a biting take on a fictional modern-day monarch, will give you a rich exploration of personal crises and societal expectations. It's a challenging read, but one that could provoke thought on the ways men cope with the pressures of the contemporary world.
The Reader
Bernhard Schlink, Carol Brown Janeway  | Phoenix

The Reader

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Goodreads rating: 3.79

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57% off est. retail
"The Reader" resonates deeply with anyone interested in the complexities of human emotions against the backdrop of history. It's more than a tale of love; it's a profound reflection on intergenerational legacy and the weight of collective guilt. Bernhard Schlink offers a narrative that is both intimate and monumental, exploring how history's darkest times infiltrate personal lives and relationships. If you're drawn to stories that grapple with moral ambiguity and the power of redemption, this is a book that will linger with you.

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.