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Contemporary Fiction

Here in our Contemporary Fiction section at Thryft, discover compelling narratives from groundbreaking authors that challenge, entertain, and inspire us. From thought-provoking tales to emotional sagas, find your next page-turner here!

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The Hope Factory
Lavanya Sankaran | Headline Publishing Group

The Hope Factory

$8.90 from $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.39

$8.90 from $6.90 22% off

57% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"The Hope Factory" isn't just a compelling dive into the contrasts of modern India, it’s a mirror reflecting personal ambition against the backdrop of societal limitations. Anand's struggles to expand his business are relatable to anyone who has chased a dream, only to encounter the complex entanglements of wealth, ethics, and survival. Kamala's story brings a poignant perspective on the razor-thin edge between aspiration and survival for the less fortunate. This book could be a powerful choice for readers who appreciate narratives where personal lives are inseparable from the larger socio-economic forces.
The Autobiography of My Mother
Jamaica Kincaid | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

The Autobiography of My Mother

$10.90 from $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$10.90 from $7.90 28% off

68% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're drawn to raw introspection and lyrical prose, "The Autobiography of My Mother" by Jamaica Kincaid could resonate deeply with you. It explores the complexities of constructing an identity amidst cultural and personal upheaval. The protagonist's poignant journey through life's varied stages on the island of Dominica is both culturally rich and emotionally stirring, underpinned by evocative descriptions that will transport you to another world. This novel may provide you with a profound connection to the human experience of searching for one's roots and place in the world.
Icy Sparks - Thryft
Gwyn Hyman Rubio | Penguin Books

Icy Sparks

$5.90 from $3.90 59% off

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$5.90 from $3.90 59% off

82% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

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 Water-Method Man - Thryft
Irving John | Black Swan

The Water-Method Man

$7.90 from $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.37

$7.90 from $3.90 61% off

83% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

Fred 'Bogus' Trumper is a wayward knight-errant in the battle of the sexes and the pursuit of happiness. He also happens to have a complaint more serious than Portnoy's. Yet he stubbornly clings to the notion that he'll make something of his life, and is about to commit himself to a second marriage that bears remarkable resemblance to his first.The Water-Method Man is a work of cosummate artistry and comic invention, bizarre imagery and sharp social and psychological observation.
Use Me - Thryft
Elissa Schappell | Harper Perennial

Use Me

$5.90 from $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.48

$5.90 from $3.90 51% off

84% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

"Use Me" is a poignant and introspective collection of stories that explores the complex emotions and experiences of being a woman. Each story is intimate and deeply personal, drawing readers into the inner lives of its characters. Schappell's writing is both artful and accessible, making this a perfect book for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted story that leaves a lasting impact. With its focus on the most profound experiences of a woman's life, this book is sure to resonate with many readers.
Young Jane Young A Novel - Thryft
Gabrielle Zevin | Algonquin Books

Young Jane Young A Novel

$10.90 from $4.90 55% off

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$10.90 from $4.90 55% off

82% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"Young Jane Young" is a book that resonates deeply, especially in today's climate. Gabrielle Zevin's storytelling channels the current zeitgeist with a sharp focus on women reclaiming their narratives amidst personal and political turmoil. If you're looking to dive into a novel that tackles contemporary issues with humor and heart, this could be the page-turner for you. It’s a witty exploration of resilience and redemption that could leave you both thoughtful and entertained.
The Girls at 17 Swann Street
Yara Zgheib | Macmillan Usa International Ed

The Girls at 17 Swann Street

$8.90 from $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$8.90 from $6.90 30% off

80% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"The Girls at 17 Swann Street" is not just a book; it's a deeply personal exploration of the challenge and recovery from eating disorders. When you read it, you feel the strength drawn from the solidarity among the women at the recovery house. Yara Zgheib's lyrical prose immerses you in Anna's internal battles and triumphs, making it a moving experience for anyone who values the resilience of the human spirit.
The Monk Downstairs
Tim Farrington | Harperone

The Monk Downstairs

$9.90 from $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.51

$9.90 from $7.90 28% off

64% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"The Monk Downstairs" isn't just a tale of unexpected roommates; it's a deep dive into personal transformations and the complexities of love and faith. If you're navigating the rough seas of real life, seeking meaning in the mundane, or just love the idea of second chances, this book's gentle humor and poignant moments could speak directly to your heart. Rebecca's journey might mirror your own skepticism, while Michael's struggle to reconcile his past with his present could challenge your own perspectives on life's purpose.
Leave Me - A Novel
Gayle Forman | Harperavenue

Leave Me - A Novel

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.66

from $8.90

In stock: Very Good

If you've ever felt overwhelmed by life's relentless demands, you'll find kinship in Maribeth Klein's story. "Leave Me" delves into the taboo fantasy of walking away from it all with an honesty that's as refreshing as it is stirring. Gayle Forman paints Maribeth's journey with such empathy and realism that you'll feel her liberation and struggle as if they were your own. This story isn’t just about the act of leaving; it’s about finding the strength to confront what you've been fleeing from and the transformative power of taking that leap.
The Hand That First Held Mine
Maggie O'Farrell | Headline Review

The Hand That First Held Mine

$8.90 from $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 4.04

$8.90 from $3.90 64% off

77% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

This book is a beautifully written exploration of love, motherhood, and the intertwining of lives across generations. With its vivid descriptions of 1950s Soho and the struggles of a contemporary artist, it offers a captivating story that will resonate with anyone who has ever questioned their identity or yearned for a deeper connection with the past. O'Farrell's exquisite prose and ability to capture the complex emotions of her characters make this a must-read for fans of literary fiction.
Lost for Words
Edward St. Aubyn | Picador

Lost for Words

$7.90 from $5.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 3.28

$7.90 from $5.90 25% off

58% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"Lost for Words" is perfect if you enjoy a biting satire that skewers the literary establishment with wit as sharp as a critic's pen. The cutthroat world of book awards, where celebrity often triumphs over substance, is laid bare, making you chuckle and cringe in equal measure. It's a reflective piece that will resonate if you've ever wondered about the real value of art versus its market-driven appraisal.
All Fall Down - A Novel
Jennifer Weiner | Atria Books

All Fall Down - A Novel

$8.90 from $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$8.90 from $7.90 20% off

72% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"All Fall Down" speaks to the heart of anyone managing the delicate balance of modern life's demands. It stirs empathy and offers an unflinching look at addiction in a setting where it's least expected. If you're drawn to stories exhibiting the fragility of seemingly perfect lives or seeking a narrative that delves into the complexities of personal struggle, Allison Weiss' journey will resonate with you and perhaps even provide a new perspective on the opioid crisis.
Angels
Marian Keyes | Penguin Uk

Angels

$8.90 $3.90 67% off

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$8.90 $3.90 67% off

76% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you've ever found yourself wondering if there's more to life, "Angels" will resonate with you. Marian Keyes crafts a story with humor and heart, where Maggie's impulsive leap into a new world mirrors the fantasies of escaping the everyday. Dive into this book for an adventure in self-discovery amidst the seductive chaos of Hollywood.
Dear Thief
Harvey Samantha | Random House

Dear Thief

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.44

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

"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.
Property
Valerie Martin | Abacus

Property

$8.90 from $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$8.90 from $6.90 30% off

58% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

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

he : A Novel

$8.90 from $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.90 from $3.90 64% off

78% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

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.
A Little Life
New
Hanya Yanagihara | Picador

A Little Life

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.34

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

This book is a raw and deeply emotional exploration of the complexities of friendship and the weight of trauma. It will stay with you long after you've turned the last page, leaving you with a profound sense of compassion and understanding. A Little Life is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit, reminding us that even amidst darkness, there is still hope and love to be found.
A Hologram for the King
Dave Eggers | Penguin Books

A Hologram for the King

$8.90 from $5.90 37% off

Goodreads rating: 3.29

$8.90 from $5.90 37% off

58% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"A Hologram for the King" might just resonate with you if you're interested in the real human cost of global economic changes. Eggers has a way of diving deep into the personal struggles of his characters, making their journeys both poignant and relatable. This novel is not just about the arid desert of Saudi Arabia, but also about the arid stretches of a life not fully realized. The story's setting alongside the tension between personal and professional crises could offer a compelling read for anyone who's faced with the uncertainties of the modern world.
Our Gang
Philip Roth | Jonathan Cape

Our Gang

$8.90 from $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.38

$8.90 from $6.90 30% off

In stock: Well Read

"Our Gang" by Philip Roth offers a razor-sharp satire of American politics that might appeal to you if you enjoy a blend of dark humor and historical critique. Roth's Trick E. Dixon is an exaggerated, yet eerily familiar political figure whose absurdity mirrors the cynicism and disillusionment of the era. With a flair for the outrageous, Roth dissects the mechanisms of power and public apathy, crafting a narrative that's as entertaining as it is scathing. This one's a gem for those who appreciate both literary prowess and biting social commentary.
The Story of a New Name: The Neapolitan Novels, Book Two
Ann Goldstein, Elena Ferrante  | Text Publishing

The Story of a New Name: The Neapolitan Novels, Book Two

from $14.90

Goodreads rating: 4.45

from $14.90

In stock: Very Good

If you were captivated by the vibrant and complex friendship in "My Brilliant Friend," you'll find "The Story of a New Name" equally immersive. Ferrante masterfully continues the journey of Lila and Elena against the backdrop of 1960s Naples, capturing the depths of their bond, the paths they navigate, and the raw reality of striving beyond one's origins. It's a continuation that twists and turns as profoundly as the friendship at its core.
Emily L. - Thryft
Marguerite Duras, Barbara Bray  | Flamingo

Emily L.

$8.90 from $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.67

$8.90 from $3.90 61% off

In stock: Well Read

If you've ever felt the ache of faltering love, Marguerite Duras' "Emily L." eloquently captures that raw emotion. The prose is almost poetic, every sentence heavy with meaning. As you lose yourself in the hypnotic rhythm of the characters' exchange, you'll find a strange comfort in the shared human experience of love and loss. This isn't just a read; it's a journey through the complexities of the heart.
Rise And Shine - Thryft
Anna Quindlen | Random House

Rise And Shine

$6.90 from $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.32

$6.90 from $3.90 56% off

68% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you are seeking a moving story about sisterhood, self-discovery, and growth, Rise And Shine by Anna Quindlen is a great choice. The novel explores the lives of two sisters, Bridget and Meghan Fitzmaurice, who are TV personalities. In the midst of a crisis, the sisters must come to terms with their own selfishness and the values they hold dear. The unique feature of this book is its portrayal of the complex bond between sisters and how it can inspire a life-changing transformation.
A Crackle of Flames, A Circle of Rainbow - Thryft
Muhammad Herwanto Johari, Zakaria Ali, Mohamed Latiff Mohamed  | Ethos Books

A Crackle of Flames, A Circle of Rainbow

$5.90 from $3.90 54% off

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$5.90 from $3.90 54% off

In stock: Very Good, Well Read

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.
Small Great Things: A Novel
Jodi Picoult | Ballantine Books

Small Great Things: A Novel

$8.90 from $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.36

$8.90 from $5.90 34% off

63% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"Small Great Things" is not just a legal drama; it's a profound journey through the intricacies of race and privilege in modern society. Jodi Picoult delivers a story that forces us to reflect on our own perspectives and biases. The characters are so richly drawn and their experiences so powerfully portrayed, you may find yourself questioning deep-seated beliefs. It's the kind of book that stays with you, nurturing growth and empathy long after the last page is turned. If you're up for both a gripping tale and a chance for introspection, this book is a compelling pick.
My House Is Falling Down - Thryft
Mary Loudon | April 30, 2020

My House Is Falling Down

$5.90 from $3.90 59% off

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$5.90 from $3.90 59% off

72% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

Recommendation: This captivating novel delves deep into the complexities of relationships, pushing the boundaries of love, fidelity, and self-discovery. With its raw honesty and dark humor, My House Is Falling Down is a thought-provoking exploration of what happens when unconventional desires collide with societal norms. Prepare to be captivated and challenged by this fearless and unflinching portrayal of the human heart.
The Road to Wanting
Wendy Law-Yone | Chatto & Windus

The Road to Wanting

$8.90 from $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.51

$8.90 from $6.90 30% off

75% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"The Road to Wanting" takes you on a profound emotional odyssey through the life of a character who has endured much and seeks solace. Wendy Law-Yone beautifully uncovers the veiled aspects of the East, blending the raw realities of exploitation with the healing grace of facing one's past. It's an evocative read that will resonate if you're interested in deeply personal narratives set against a backdrop of cultural turmoil.
Too Much Happiness
New
Alice Munro | Mcclelland And Stewart

Too Much Happiness

from $9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.83

from $9.90

In stock: Well Read

Alice Munro's "Too Much Happiness" weaves through the intricate tapestries of human emotions, making it an engrossing read for those who appreciate the subtleties of life's complexities. The interconnected stories invite reflection on personal journeys and the unexpected turns of fate, catering well to readers who revel in profound character studies and the bittersweetness of existence. Munro's mastery in short fiction offers a telescopic view into the human soul, making every story a compact cosmos of insight.
The Corporate Wife - Thryft
Elizabeth Harrington | Fontana

The Corporate Wife

$8.68 from $4.90 49% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$8.68 from $4.90 49% off

In stock: Well Read

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.
Diary of a Void
New
David Boyd, Emi Yagi, Lucy North  | Vintage

Diary of a Void

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.5

from $8.90

In stock: Like New

If you've relished reading "Convenience Store Woman" or "Breasts and Eggs," this book promises a similar deep dive into themes of gender and societal norms but with a subversive twist. Ms. Shibata's compelling journey will resonate with you – it's more than a story; it's a thought-provoking exploration that questions what you know about duty, life, and the pressures faced by women. Emi Yagi's "Diary of a Void" is a prizewinner for a reason; it's a narrative that blends humor with piercing social commentary, making it a must-read that challenges the status quo.
Snow Queen The
Michael Cunningham | Farrar, Straus And Giroux

Snow Queen The

$12.90 from $9.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 3.08

$12.90 from $9.90 25% off

63% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you enjoy delving into the complexities of the human soul and the pursuit of something greater amidst the struggles of life, "The Snow Queen" by Michael Cunningham might just resonate with you. It's not just about the brush with the divine or the gritty reality of urban life; it's about the characters' deeply personal journeys towards understanding, making it a meaningful read that could leave you contemplating long after the final page.
Serious Men - Thryft
Manu Joseph | Harper Collins

Serious Men

$11.59 from $4.90 59% off

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$11.59 from $4.90 59% off

84% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

"Serious Men" will resonate with anyone who's ever felt stuck in life, dreaming of something greater. Manu Joseph manages to weave humor and poignancy to tell the story of Ayyan Mani, a man whose schemes of breaking free from societal chains are as audacious as they are entertaining. This book might just make you laugh, think, and root for an underdog who's playing a high-stakes game.
Taipei
Tao Lin | Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group

Taipei

$8.90 from $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.33

$8.90 from $7.90 20% off

66% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"Taipei" might resonate with you if you're drawn to narratives that encapsulate the essence of millennial anxiety and the search for meaning in a hyperconnected world. Tao Lin crafts a story that's at once a candid portrayal of modern relationships and a broader commentary on contemporary life's peculiar mix of ennui and excess. The novel's raw honesty and Tao Lin's distinctive prose could give you a new lens through which to view the ordinary and the profound.
Into The Wind - Contemporary Stories in English - Thryft
Barrie Wade | Oxford University Press

Into The Wind - Contemporary Stories in English

$8.90 from $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.43

$8.90 from $3.90 56% off

91% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're keen on exploring narratives that delve into personal struggles against the larger backdrop of society, "Into The Wind" offers just that. With its focus on women's resilience, it demonstrates the complexity of individuality interwoven with cultural norms. It's particularly compelling for students, both enlightening and educational, perfect for those studying GCSEs who are looking to understand diverse perspectives and the nuance of human experiences.
The Finkler Question
Howard Jacobson | Bloomsbury Usa

The Finkler Question

$8.90 from $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 2.83

$8.90 from $6.90 30% off

74% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"The Finkler Question" could be a fantastic choice for you if you find yourself drawn to stories that combine wit with profound subject matter. Its blend of humor and heartbreak captures the complexities of life, exploring themes like aging, cultural identity, and the impact of past relationships on one's present self. Howard Jacobson's Booker Prize-winning work promises not just an engaging narrative but also a deep, reflective experience that stays with you long after you turn the last page.
River angel - Thryft
A. Manette Ansay | William Morrow

River angel

$8.90 from $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.53

$8.90 from $3.90 64% off

89% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"River Angel" isn't just another book; it's a journey into the complexities of belief and the ways a single event can ripple through an entire community. If you're searching for a read that combines mystery with a deep dive into human relationships and spirituality, A. Manette Ansay's nuanced treatment of these themes will surely captivate you. It's for anyone looking to ponder the presence of miracles in our modern world.
Hullabaloo in the Guava Orchard - Thryft
Desai | Gardners Vi Books Ams006

Hullabaloo in the Guava Orchard

$6.90 from $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.47

$6.90 from $3.90 56% off

74% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're into novels that mix humor with a touch of the magical, "Hullabaloo in the Guava Orchard" could be your next favorite escape. Kiran Desai crafts a world where the ordinary twists into the extraordinary, creating a delightful commentary on society and human nature. It's perfect if you need a good laugh blended with insightful observations of life in a small Indian community, all set under the canopy of a guava tree.
Something Special - Thryft
Iris Murdoch, Michael McCurdy  | Vintage

Something Special

$8.90 from $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.03

$8.90 from $4.90 51% off

81% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you enjoy tales that unearth the intricate dance between aspirations and the oft-hard lines of reality, "Something Special" might resonate deeply with you. Iris Murdoch's distinctive charm is woven throughout this narrative, capturing the essence of a young woman's longing for 'something more' amidst the cultural backdrop of 1950s Dublin. This short story, unique in Murdoch's oeuvre as it treads into the short form, provides an intimate gaze into a single, defining moment that brims with sly humor and a hint of melancholy.
The Association of Small Bombs - Thryft
Karan Mahajan | Vintage

The Association of Small Bombs

$10.86 from $4.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.57

$10.86 from $4.90 56% off

81% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

This book could be a gem for you if the human side of tragic events intrigues you. Karan Mahajan delves deep into the psyche of terrorism's aftermath, not just on victims, but on the perpetrators as well. The narrative is fearless and empathetic, making "The Association of Small Bombs" a profound read that addresses the complexities of political violence and its far-reaching consequences. It could change the way you perceive the news, empathy, and justice.
Lake Like a Mirror
Natascha Bruce, Ho Sok Fong  | Granta Books

Lake Like a Mirror

$8.90 from $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.31

$8.90 from $6.90 22% off

58% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If the complexity of human experiences intrigues you, "Lake Like a Mirror" could be a powerful read. The author, Ho Sok Fong, threads nine stories with a delicate touch, each revealing the inner turmoil and societal pressures faced by different women. Set against the rich backdrops of Malaysia and Taiwan, this collection not only provides a cultural voyage but also an intimate exploration of what moves us beneath the surface.
S.
John Updike | Fawcett Crest

S.

$5.90 from $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.35

$5.90 from $3.90 34% off

64% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're feeling a tad stuck in routine, "S." could be just the escape. It's not just about Sarah abandoning her comfortable life; it's a sharp and satirical look at the search for meaning beyond the picket fences that might mirror a yearning in many of us. Updike has a reputation for wit and depth, and you'll get plenty of both here as you journey with Sarah and possibly reflect on your own life's pilgrimage.
Five Days Left
Julie Lawson Timmer (author) | Arrow Books Ltd

Five Days Left

$8.90 from $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$8.90 from $6.90 22% off

In stock: Well Read

"Five Days Left" could resonate deeply if you're drawn to human drama and the intricate emotional journeys individuals face during pivotal moments in life. Mara and Scott's lives, connected through the virtual world, offer a somber yet beautiful lens into the sacrifices we make for love. It's a tale that invites reflection on our own choices and the fleeting nature of time.
The Travelling Tea Shop
Belinda Jones | Hodder & Stoughton

The Travelling Tea Shop

$8.90 from $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$8.90 from $6.90 30% off

In stock: Well Read

Imagine a road trip with a twist of sweetness, both in the company you keep and the treats you bake. "The Travelling Tea Shop" is a delightful mix of culinary adventure, the complexities of family dynamics, and the unexpected ingredients of love. It's as comforting as your favorite dessert, with enough heart to satisfy anyone looking for both warmth and a dash of escapism. If you’ve got a taste for food-inspired stories and cross-country journeys, you'll find this book a recipe for joy.
The Stone Diaries
Carol Shields | Fourth Estate

The Stone Diaries

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.89

from $8.90

In stock: Very Good

"The Stone Diaries" offers a heartfelt journey into the life of Daisy Goodwill Flett, providing a poignant window into a woman's soul across different stages of her life. It's a moving narrative that resonates with anyone interested in the complexities of identity, memory, and personal history. Shields masterfully crafts a story that's as much an introspective mosaic as it is a reflection on the universal stages of an individual's life, making it a captivating read for those who enjoy character-driven novels.
Alentejo Blue
Monica Ali | Doubleday

Alentejo Blue

$8.90 from $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 2.76

$8.90 from $6.90 22% off

In stock: Well Read

If you're the type who finds charm in the mosaic of human experiences, "Alentejo Blue" might be your next favorite. Monica Ali has woven the essence of Mamarrosa into the lives of characters so rich and real that you could feel the warmth of the sun-soaked village. It’s as if you’re there, experiencing the laughter, the secrets, and the dreams of its inhabitants. This book isn't just a read; it's travel by words.
Commonwealth - Thryft
Ann Patchett | Bloomsbury Paperbacks

Commonwealth

$8.90 from $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$8.90 from $3.90 61% off

73% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

'Commonwealth' would be a great read for fans of multi-generational family sagas. Ann Patchett skillfully weaves together the stories of two families and explores the themes of love, loss, and the consequences of one's actions. The unique feature of this book is the shifting POV between different characters. Readers will be captivated by the flawed, yet relatable characters and the complex relationships they share. Overall, 'Commonwealth' offers a poignant and beautifully written narrative that will stay with readers long after they finish the book.
What We Keep - Thryft
Elizabeth Berg | Arrow

What We Keep

$5.90 from $3.90 59% off

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$5.90 from $3.90 59% off

68% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

"What We Keep" would be a great read for someone who enjoys family dramas and stories of self-discovery. The author, Elizabeth Berg, beautifully depicts the complex relationships between sisters, mothers, and daughters. The book is centered around Ginny, who faces a painful confrontation about her choices in life and confronts surprising truths about those she thought she knew best. Berg's writing style is both emotional and compelling, leaving readers with a sense of intimacy with the characters.
TransAtlantic - Thryft
Colum McCann | Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

TransAtlantic

$8.90 from $4.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$8.90 from $4.90 51% off

81% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you’re someone who loves diving into the complex tapestry of history through personal lives and epic journeys, "TransAtlantic" is a book that could enchant you. McCann masterfully intertwines tales across time, from daring flights to political quests and the pursuit of freedom. His poetic prose and the deeply human stories at the heart of this novel make it a captivating read that not only entertains but also offers profound insights into the interconnectedness of our stories.
Girl in Hyacinth Blue
Susan Vreeland | Macmurray & Beck

Girl in Hyacinth Blue

$8.90 from $6.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$8.90 from $6.90 30% off

71% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you've ever felt captivated by the mysterious aura that surrounds a piece of art, "Girl in Hyacinth Blue" is for you. Susan Vreeland skillfully intertwines the past and present, reflecting on the profound impact art can have on various lives across centuries. Each story surrounding this painting is a brushstroke in an elaborate canvas, painting how beauty and humanity persist despite adversity. It’s a compelling voyage through time, and with every page, you might find a bit of yourself within the colors of this literary masterpiece.
Bloodletting & Miraculous Cures - Stories - Thryft
Vincent Lam | Anchor Canada

Bloodletting & Miraculous Cures - Stories

$8.90 from $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.52

$8.90 from $3.90 61% off

In stock: Well Read

This book is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the world of medicine. Through interconnected stories, Vincent Lam takes readers on a gripping journey into the lives of medical students and doctors, revealing the challenges, triumphs, and moral dilemmas they face. With a black humor that cuts through the intensity, Lam provides a brutally honest and realistic look into the medical profession, making this book an eye-opening and thought-provoking read.
The Believers
Zoë Heller | Penguin Books, Limited (uk)

The Believers

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.38

from $8.90

58% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"The Believers" takes you deep into the heart of a family shaken by a crisis. As Audrey grapples with her husband's secret past, you explore the complexities of love, truth, and the bonds we think are unbreakable. It's a thought-provoking read that remains tender and sharply observant, peeling back the layers of family and belief to reveal the chaos and compassion within.

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.