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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This book could be a good read for someone who is captivated by the complexities of both the artistic world and personal relationships. Ethan Hawke's protagonist takes us on a rollercoaster of emotions as he navigates the wreckage of his personal life while immersing himself in the demanding world of theater. The raw and honest portrayal of shame, beauty, and faith, combined with Hawke's lyrical prose, makes this novel a captivating and thought-provoking read. It's a testament to the power of art in healing and finding one's way back to oneself.
Harvey Samantha
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Random
House
Dear Thief
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Goodreads rating: 3.44
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"Dear Thief" is one of those rare reads that entices you into the depths of human emotions and the complexities of a broken friendship. As the protagonist pours her heart out through letters that may never be read, you're invited to unpack a history of betrayal, and perhaps find a reflection of your own pasts and the power of forgiveness. Samantha Harvey has crafted a literary piece that is both intimate and profound, making it a compelling read for anyone who's ever longed to reconcile with the unchangeable.
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If you crave a story that grips your heart tightly and lingers long after you've turned the last page, "A Little Life" is that emotionally heavy but profoundly moving read. It's an immersive journey that explores the complexities of human relationships, the weight of past traumas, and the enduring power of friendship. Just a heads-up: it's not a light read, so be prepared for a narrative that's as challenging as it is rewarding.
Anne Korkeakivi
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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.
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"The Terranauts" offers you a window into what happens when human ambition and idealism clash with confinement and reality. You'll find yourself immersed in the lives of the characters as they navigate through psychological, social, and environmental challenges inside an artificial biosphere. It's a thought-provoking read that mirrors a reality show set against an ecological backdrop, raising questions about our place in the natural world and our interactions with each other.
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If you appreciate literary mastery and are intrigued by the intricate layers of the human psyche as reflected through artful storytelling, David Foster Wallace's "Oblivion" should be next on your reading list. This collection of stories showcases Wallace's exceptional ability to weave together deep introspection with vivid narrative, marking him as a revolutionary voice in modern fiction. His unmatched craftsmanship in dissecting modernity will captivate your mind and provoke profound contemplation.
Kazuo Ishiguro
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Faber
And
Faber
Limited
The Remains of the Day
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Goodreads rating: 4.14
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Imagine stepping into the polished shoes of Stevens, the quintessentially dedicated butler. Ishiguro's 'The Remains of the Day' offers a poignant look at what happens when loyalty clashes with personal convictions. As you dip into Stevens' memories, the elegance of the prose and the bittersweet nostalgia for a bygone era make this book a compelling portrait of a man's life and the choices that define it. It's a quietly powerful meditation on the human condition that's sure to resonate well after the final page.
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If you've ever been haunted by the unknown, "The Zahir" could be your next great read. Coelho weaves a captivating narrative that delves deep into the human spirit's quest for meaning. As the protagonist searches for his missing wife, he undertakes a journey that's as much about internal discovery as it is about unraveling external mystery. You might find it's more than a story; it could be a mirror into your own, often unspoken, yearnings.
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"Little Fires Everywhere" truly resonates with anyone who appreciates complex character dynamics and the often unspoken tension between societal expectations and personal desires. Celeste Ng delves into the intricacies of motherhood, adolescence, and the illusion of a perfect life in a way that's both relatable and thought-provoking, igniting a reflection on your own life's 'little fires'.
Haruki Murakami
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Vintage
Publishing
Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage
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Goodreads rating: 3.87
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If you've ever felt adrift in your own life, as if the anchors of friendship and certainty have slipped away, Murakami's "Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki" explores this terrain with a delicate mix of melancholy and mystery. There's something haunting about Tsukuru's quest to understand his past, and the narrative takes you deep into the intricacies of human relationships. This book isn’t just a story; it’s an experience, weaving the abstract and the concrete, the magical and the mundane, into a tapestry that might just resemble the complexities of your own life.
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If this past year has left you reflecting on the unexpected turns life can take and the beauty in finding oneself amidst chaos, Jodi Picoult's "Wish You Were Here" could resonate with you. It's an evocative exploration of our times, wrapped in a story that promises both the warmth of humanity and the thrill of unforeseen adventure. Picoult's narrative could offer you a companionable mirror to your own thoughts and feelings about these uncertain times.
Patrick Flanery
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July
4,
2019
Night for Day
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Goodreads rating: 3.29
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If you're drawn to the murky intersection of politics and art, "Night for Day" might resonate with you deeply. It's not just a historical exploration of the Red Scare's impact on Hollywood—it's a rich tapestry that evokes the paranoia and intensity of the era. Through its blend of real tension and allusions to both classic American and mythic literature, you'd experience a consuming narrative that mirrors the fear of complicity and the pain of exile, making it not just a novel but a cinematic journey through one of America's darker chapters.
Marcelle Bernstein
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Harpercollins
Publishers
Salka
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Goodreads rating: 3.2
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Salka plunges you into the throes of history, weaving personal struggles with the tapestry of wartime Europe. It's a tale that explores the depths of human endurance and the sparks of hope that persist in the darkest times. Anyone interested in historical dramas with rich character development will find Salka riveting.
Aylmer Maude, Louise Maude, Leo Tolstoy |
Vintage
Anna Karenina
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Goodreads rating: 4.1
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"Anna Karenina" might just redefine how you perceive passion, romance, and societal pressures. As you delve into Tolstoy's rich narrative, you'll find yourself immersed not just in the compelling tragedy of Anna and Vronsky's romance, but also in the intricacies of Russian social strata. It's a book that doesn't shy away from exploring the depths of the human condition, making it an enduring literary masterpiece that speaks volumes about love and sacrifice.
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If you enjoy a blend of whimsical prose and biting satire framed within the storied halls of Oxford, "Zuleika Dobson" could be an engaging read for you. Beerbohm masterfully paints the quirks and follies of university life, making it a delightful excursion into Edwardian-era literature that still resonates with contemporary audiences.
Muhammad Herwanto Johari, Zakaria Ali, Mohamed Latiff Mohamed |
Ethos
Books
A Crackle of Flames, A Circle of Rainbow
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Goodreads rating: 5.0
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If raw and unflinching poetry speaks to you, "A Crackle of Flames, A Circle of Rainbow" by Mohamed Latiff Mohamed may strike a chord. Each poem throbs with the visceral experiences of those cast aside in society. It’s poetry that doesn’t shy away from the bleak and somber realities, gripping readers with its intensity and truth. For anyone looking to explore a potent, socio-political commentary through verse, this could offer a compelling, immersive experience.
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If you're captivated by the psychological depths of human nature and its susceptibilities, "Study for Obedience" might just be your next gripping read. Sarah Bernstein doesn't shy away from the uncomfortable, delivering a narrative that's both thought-provoking and disquieting, perfect for those who appreciate a story that challenges the moral compass.
Andrea Yew
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Math
Paper
Press
In These Curved Spaces
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Goodreads rating: 4.23
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This book is a journey into the complex relationship between memory, time, and identity. Through exploring the gaps in our memories, it challenges us to think about how we construct our own stories and fill in the missing pieces. With its introspective and thought-provoking nature, "In These Curved Spaces" invites readers to reflect on the significance of memories and the ways in which they shape our sense of self.
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If you're drawn to stories that deeply explore the intersections of family, race, and the legacy of the American South, "Sing, Unburied, Sing" by Jesmyn Ward may resonate with you. The prose is poetic and immersive, making the characters’ struggles and internal worlds incredibly vivid. Especially in a time when examining the complexities of identity and belonging is more relevant than ever, Jesmyn Ward offers a narrative that is both a harsh reflection of societal issues and a tender tale of familial bonds.
Malcolm Bradbury
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Picador
Rates of Exchange and Why Come to Slaka?
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Goodreads rating: 3.75
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If you enjoy a mix of political satire with a dash of personal drama, "Rates of Exchange" would be right up your alley. Malcolm Bradbury weaves a story that not only tickles your funny bone with its absurdity but also offers a sharp critique of the sociopolitical landscape during a time of great change in Eastern Europe. The book's ability to put you in the shoes of a Westerner navigating the complexities and idiosyncrasies of Slaka is its most charming quality.
T. Coraghessan Boyle
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Penguin
Books
The Tortilla Curtain
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Goodreads rating: 3.66
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The Tortilla Curtain could resonate with you if you're intrigued by stories that delve into the complexities of societal issues with a mix of drama and humor. T.C. Boyle presents a thought-provoking narrative that lays bare the contradictions of the American Dream through the lens of two very different couples in California. It's a vivid exploration of the collision between privilege and desperation, begging reflection on the human cost of the pursuit of prosperity.
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"The Namesake" resonates deeply for anyone who's ever felt caught between worlds. Lahiri's prose is exquisite and precise, capturing the nuances of the immigrant experience and the search for identity. It's a poignant read that eloquently explores the complexities of family, tradition, and belonging.
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"On Beauty" will resonate with you if you enjoy dissecting the complexities of family dynamics and the idea of beauty in imperfection. Zadie Smith offers a vibrant and satirical look at academic pretensions, cultural clashes, and the stumbling humanity within us all. She writes with wit that cuts deep, yet somehow manages to cradle the reader’s heart with an understanding of life's true beauties — imperfections and all.
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If you're delving into A-Level English Literature, "Hard Times" is a Charles Dickens classic that will give you a taste of literary analysis and critical thinking. Its depiction of industrial Victorian England is profound, exploring themes of social injustice, utilitarianism, and the human condition. It's not just a study text; it's a rich, character-driven novel that resonates with the contemporary reader's sense of empathy and the search for meaning beyond materialism.
Just Arrived
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"Norwegian Wood" resonates on a deeply emotional level, capturing the essence of young love and the pains of growing up. As you wander through Toru's life, you might find yourself reflecting on your own past, the bittersweet memories, and the everlasting marks of first love. Murakami's storytelling weaves a hauntingly beautiful narrative that stays with you, long after turning the last page.
Jonathan Franzen
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Fourth
Estate
Paperbacks
The Corrections
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Goodreads rating: 3.84
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Franzen's "The Corrections" masterfully unravels the messy, intertwined lives of the Lambert family with sharp wit and deep insight. If you enjoy rich character development and a narrative that captures the absurdities of modern life, this may be the next book on your list. It's not just a story—it's a mirror to the quintessential American life, reflecting personal and societal struggles that resonate long after the last page is turned.
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"How to be Good" might tickle your fancy if you're into stories that satirize the complexities of contemporary life. Nick Hornby has a knack for capturing the absurdities of trying to be a moral person in a not-so-simple world. It's wittily observant, and you might find yourself both cringing and nodding along with the protagonist's dilemmas.
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If the complex layers of human memory and the haunting echoes of the past fascinate you, "When We Were Orphans" will resonate deeply. Ishiguro masterfully blends a detective's narrative with the poignancy of lost childhood, set against a backdrop of global turbulence. It's a read that invites introspection and offers a profound look at the impact of history on personal identity.
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"Terms & Conditions" delves into the life of Frank, a man grappling with memory loss and the unsettling feeling that everything he knows is shifting beneath his feet. It's a thought-provoking read that cleverly intertwines the mundanity of contractual jargon with the protagonist's search for truth amid chaos. If you're looking for a novel that offers a mix of legal intrigue, dark humor, and the exploration of what makes us who we are, this book's unique narrative style and poignant questioning of life's real agreements will undoubtedly leave an impression.
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If you're intrigued by the historical interplay between personal and political narratives, "Fear of Mirrors" offers a poignant exploration. Tariq Ali weaves the collapse of communism with a family's disintegration, using Vlady Meyer's losses as a lens to examine deep-rooted Marxist ideals and their impacts. This book stands out for its thoughtful approach to showcasing how large-scale political shifts can deeply affect individual lives and beliefs.
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If you're into design or the creative industry, "The Learners" is a must-read that delves into the world of advertising with a blend of humor and existential angst. Author Chip Kidd, known for his cover designs, crafts a narrative that's visually enriching and intellectually stimulating, perfect for those seeking both entertainment and insight into the creative process.
Wee Kiat
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Landmark
Books
Eat Company Sleep Bunk Berth
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This book would be a good read for someone interested in exploring the intricacies of modern Singaporean life. With its focus on the everyday experiences of its characters, readers can get a sense of what it's like to live in a bustling city while navigating the challenges of personal relationships and professional aspirations. The unique and distinctive feature of this book is the way it weaves together diverse perspectives to create a multifaceted portrait of Singaporean society.
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Vernon God Little
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"Sightseeing" is a journey through the heart and soul of Thailand, where each story unfolds a separate facet of life's complexities amidst cultural shifts. If you're drawn to narratives that weave together the personal and the societal, offering both a touch of humor and a profound examination of familial and romantic relationships, then Rattawut Lapcharoensap's poignant debut may resonate with you. It's not just a book; it's an immersion into an Edenic setting forever changed by modernity.
Elizabeth Harrington
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Fontana
The Corporate Wife
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If you find yourself intrigued by the intricacies of personal sacrifices for career advancement, 'The Corporate Wife' could resonate with you. Experiencing the life through the lens of a marriage tethered to corporate success in the early 90s offers not just a compelling narrative but also a thought-provoking commentary on societal expectations and personal identity. Elizabeth Harrington's exploration of this dynamic might just be the engrossing read you're looking for.
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If you've got a knack for tense, tightly wound narratives that brood on fate and morality, "No Country for Old Men" is a compelling journey you'll want to embark on. McCarthy's prose cuts to the chase with the precision of a hunter stalking prey, laying bare the darkness that can thrive in the human soul when faced with life-altering temptation. This isn't just a crime thriller; it's a poignant meditation on the erosion of ideals in the face of brutality, which may resonate deeply with you.
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If you're the introspective type who thrives on intellectual stimulation, "Elizabeth Finch" may resonate with you deeply. Julian Barnes has crafted a book that’s a testament to critical thinking and the power of a good teacher. Engaging with Elizabeth Finch's character is like attending the most profound of lectures, one that lingers and challenges long after the final page.
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"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.
Ferris Joshua Joshua Ferris
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Penguin
Books
Unnamed the Air Exp
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Goodreads rating: 3.33
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Imagine feeling trapped in your own body, compelled to walk without end. Ferris crafts a deeply human narrative surrounding Tim Farnsworth's life and strain on his marriage, as he's gripped by an inexplicable disorder. It's a raw exploration of the human condition, melding the absurd with the tragic. If you're drawn to character-driven stories that walk the fine line between reality and allegory, this might just resonate with you.
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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.
Haruki Murakami, Ted Goosen |
Harvill
Secker
Hear the Wind Sing: Pinball, 1973
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Goodreads rating: 3.53
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Diving into 'Wind/Pinball: Two Novels' is like exploring the seedlings of Haruki Murakami's expansive garden of fiction. You'll find the roots of his signature blend of the mundane and the extraordinary, stirring a sense of wonder and introspection. For fans of his later works, it's an intimate look back at where it all began, and for newcomers, an inviting gateway into his surreal world.
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If you have a fondness for rich storytelling, "The O. Henry Prize Stories 2017" could be a feast for your imagination. Every story is a standout, handpicked from a sea of literary talent. It's perfect for those short on time but hungry for varied and thought-provoking fiction. Plus, the insights from the authors themselves add a layer of depth to each piece that's sure to engage your literary palate.
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If you're drawn to the raw and unfiltered aspects of the human psyche, especially through the lens of the early 1970s, "Weird Fucks" by Lynne Tillman won't disappoint. It's a candid portrayal that offers rich, provocative snapshots of one woman's encounters with an array of men, laying bare the complexities of sex, desire, and identity. This book beckons to those who appreciate a deep dive into personal narratives that are as eccentric as they are enlightening.
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If you're a literature enthusiast who appreciates novels that delve into human relationships and societal norms, "Lady Chatterley's Lover" might become a true gem in your collection. D.H. Lawrence's elegant prose guides you through an emotional labyrinth, challenging class division and exploring passionate liberation. It's a love story, yes, but it's also a piece of literary history that broke barriers and continues to inspire conversations about the complexities of desire and connection.
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If you're drawn to stories with vivid historical settings and deep emotional undercurrents, "The Long Song" is a book that could resonate with you. Andrea Levy offers a window into the turbulent end of slavery in Jamaica, weaving a narrative that's as informative as it is moving. It's for anyone captivated by powerful storytelling that illuminates important, yet heartbreaking chapters of our past.
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This book is a heartwarming tale that explores the power of friendship and its ability to endure even the toughest of times. It beautifully portrays the bond between Lisa and Elliot, reminding us of the importance of having someone who always has our back. The emotional journey of these characters will leave you with a tear in your eye, but also a renewed sense of hope and the value of true friendship. A perfect read for those who appreciate stories about enduring connections and the resilience of the human spirit.
Charles Dickens
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Wordsworth
Editions
Limited
David Copperfield
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Goodreads rating: 4.03
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"David Copperfield" isn't just a novel; it's a journey through the ups and downs of life, reflected in the growth and trials of David himself. If you're drawn to rich character development and a story that encapsulates the human spirit, this Dickens classic promises to leave a lasting impression with its wit and emotional depth. It's a tapestry of experiences that illustrates the complexities of life, adorned with memorable characters who add color and warmth to David's tale. Curl up and prepare to be immersed in a story that celebrates resilience.
Michel Faber
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Canongate
Books
The Crimson Petal and the White
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Goodreads rating: 3.89
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"The Crimson Petal and the White" sweeps you into the grimy but beguiling underbelly of Victorian London, with a narrative that's both intimate and expansive. Sugar's story is a compelling dance on the tightrope between self-preservation and ambition. Michel Faber's rich prose and vivid character development make the 19th-century setting pulsate with life, offering a fresh lens on the era's society and moralities. It's for the historical fiction enthusiast who craves depth, detail, and a touch of darkness.
Lawrence Thornton
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Arrow
Books
Imagining Argentina
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Goodreads rating: 4.01
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"Imagining Argentina" stirs the heart with its blend of painful historical truths and the faint whisper of magical realism. Centering on the grim reality of the 1970s Argentine dictatorship, it manages to weave hope into the narrative in a way that's both lyrical and profound. If you're drawn to stories that make sense of the senseless and find beauty in the darkest of times, this book could be a deeply moving experience for you.
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If you've ever felt like an outsider looking in, "Eleanor Rigby" could resonate deeply with you. It's about the transformative power of unexpected relationships, and how even the loneliest people can find connection in the most unforeseen places. The protagonist's raw, relatable human experience is likely to tug at your heartstrings.
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.
In our Literary Fiction collection, you'll find works by both renowned authors like Salman Rushdie and Jhumpa Lahiri, as well as intriguing novels by emerging writers.
While Contemporary Fiction focuses on modern themes and everyday life, Literary Fiction prioritises narrative style, character depth, and emotional impact. If you're interested, explore our Contemporary Fiction collection for more modern tales.
Absolutely! Many authors combine literary fiction with elements of fantasy or historical fiction. You can explore genres like Fantasy or Historical Fiction for unique cross-genre books.
You can discover up-and-coming authors through our curated selection, where promising new voices are displayed alongside literary greats. Occasionally, check our Literary Fiction page for the latest additions.
Indeed, many literary fiction books delve into philosophical and existential themes. For more titles on such topics, visit our Literary Fiction Philosophy collection as well.