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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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K: The Art of Love - Thryft
Hong Ying | Penguin

K: The Art of Love

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.23

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

88% off est. retail
This book could be a good read if you're intrigued by passionate relationships forbidden by societal norms. Set in 1930s China, "K: The Art of Love" delves into the sensual exploration between Julian, a member of the Bloomsbury set, and Lin, the wife of a Chinese academic. As they navigate the Daoist Art of Love, their love story unfolds against the backdrop of a divided and conflicted country on the brink of war. It's a captivating tale that explores desire, cultural clashes, and the power of love to transcend boundaries.
Tender Rebel - Thryft
Johanna Lindsey | Avon

Tender Rebel

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

75% off est. retail
Tender Rebel is a historical romance novel set in the Highlands of Scotland. It tells the story of Roslynn Chadwick, a young woman who needs to get married to protect her wealth. She falls in love with the roguish Anthony Malory, but fears that his promises of passion will lead to disaster. This book is perfect for readers who enjoy steamy, adventurous romance novels set in exotic locations. The book is well-written and engaging, with vivid descriptions of the Scottish countryside and charming characters who will capture your heart.
The Storyteller
New
Jodi Picoult | Hodder Paperback

The Storyteller

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.3

$8.26

"The Storyteller" weaves complex characters into a narrative that explores the darkest corners of morality, forgiveness, and the weight of past secrets. It grips you as Sage's story unfolds, revealing the delicate balance between justice and mercy, and challenging your own perceptions of right and wrong. If you're drawn to novels that provoke thought and present ethical dilemmas amidst a deeply personal journey, Jodi Picoult's storytelling prowess in this book will not disappoint. It's a read that lingers long after the last page.
Memories of the Ford Administration
John Updike | Gardners

Memories of the Ford Administration

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.3

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

If you're keen on political history with a twist of personal narrative, John Updike's "Memories of the Ford Administration" could pique your interest. Updike provides a deep dive into the turbulence of the '70s, yet serves it with a side of intimate confessions and human frailties that could make you reflect on the often blurred lines between our public and private lives. It's a thought-provoking read that combines the political with the personal in a way only Updike can.
Ever After - Thryft
Graham Swift | Picador

Ever After

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.56

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

72% off est. retail
"Ever After" could resonate with your soul on a deeply personal level. Swift masterfully interlaces different stories, prompting moments of profound self-recognition. If you appreciate novels that gently draw you in and then surprise you with the depth of emotion and insight they evoke, this might just be your next favorite read. The critics rave about its intelligence and emotional depth, suggesting it could stir thoughts and feelings you thought were uniquely yours.
Sucking Shrimp
Stephanie Theobald | Flame

Sucking Shrimp

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 2.67

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

72% off est. retail
"Sucking Shrimp" offers an eclectic mix that might intrigue you if you're into vibrant storytelling with a touch of eccentricity. Stephanie Theobald crafts a narrative that threads the needle between offbeat humor and the strange allure of a foreign culture, all while toying with the idea of madness. It's a literary dish with a spice that could just captivate your palate.
Oh, Play That Thing - The Last Roundup
Roddy Doyle | Vintage Books Usa

Oh, Play That Thing - The Last Roundup

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.28

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

80% off est. retail
If you relish historical fiction teeming with wit, Roddy Doyle's "Oh, Play That Thing" will transport you to 1920s America alongside the clever, cheeky Henry Smart. Doyle weaves a captivating narrative blending adventure, crime, and music—jazz becomes Henry's baptism into a new world. A pilgrimage through a vividly drawn era, with a soundtrack by none other than Louis Armstrong, awaits you in these pages.
Beyond Recall - Thryft

Beyond Recall

$12.90 $3.90 70% off

$12.90 $3.90 70% off

76% off est. retail
"Beyond Recall" draws you in with a compelling blend of family secrets and timelines. It's not just for mystery enthusiasts, but also for those who appreciate a rich, character-driven narrative. The intertwining of past and present adds depth, making it an intriguing puzzle that beckons you to unravel it along with Chris Napier. If you've got a penchant for meticulously crafted stories that bridge generations, this could be a title you'll want to dive into.
Panama - Thryft
Eric Zencey | Farrar, Straus & Giroux

Panama

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.19

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

72% off est. retail
If you're someone who revels in a rich tapestry of history and mystery, "Panama" could be an exciting pick for your next read. The author, Eric Zencey, masterfully immerses you in the atmospheric lanes of 1890s Paris, blending real historical figures with fiction. It's not just a story; it's a period piece that unravels a potent mix of suspense and historical context surrounding the Panama Canal scandal, engaging you until the last page.
Silk
New
Ann Goldstein, Alessandro Baricco  | Canongate Publishing

Silk

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$8.90

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

A God in Ruins

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

Goodreads rating: 3.95

$10.90 $5.90 46% off

71% off est. retail
If you're drawn to stories that blend historical depth with personal narratives, "A God in Ruins" could captivate you. Kate Atkinson's talent shines through in her portrayal of Teddy Todd's life, spanning the heroics of war to the challenges of peace. The book's celebrated prose and the emotional resonance it carries could make it not just a novel but an experience for you, as it delves into the burdens carried by those who survive and the generations that follow.
Love Me Forever - Thryft
Johanna Lindsey | Avon

Love Me Forever

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

49% off est. retail
Love Me Forever could be a good read for romance fans who enjoy a story with unexpected twists and turns. The book depicts the challenges of a young heiress's journey to uncover true love amid a complicated family situation. The unique feature of this book is the way it portrays how love can blossom in situations where it is least expected. Readers will love the chemistry between the two main characters, Kimberly and Lachlan, and the way they navigate through outrageous circumstances to get to their happy ending.
The Oligarch's Wife - Thryft
Anna Blundy | Random House Uk

The Oligarch's Wife

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.33

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

89% off est. retail
This book would be a good read for someone who loves dramatic narratives filled with complex characters. The Oligarch's Wife takes you on a journey into a world of immense wealth and ruthless ambition. The most captivating aspect is the entangled lives of the two women who must navigate their relationships with the enigmatic Oligarch. The book delves deep into the dark underbelly of power and poses intriguing questions about the cost of ambition. Prepare to be engrossed in this gripping tale of power, betrayal, and the complexities of human relationships.
French Blues - Thryft
Paul Rambali | Vintage/ebury (a Division Of Random House Group)

French Blues

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.0

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

'French Blues' takes you on a personal journey through France, not just as a travelogue but as an introspective exploration of culture and self. Its vivid descriptions and thoughtful prose will resonate with anyone who's sought to understand a place beyond the surface, making it a great read for those who love travel with depth.
Welcome To The World Baby Girl - Thryft
Fannie Flagg | Vintage

Welcome To The World Baby Girl

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$3.90

80% off est. retail
Welcome to the World, Baby Girl! is a heartfelt story of Dena Nordstrom, a young TV interviewer, who battles emotional struggles while navigating the ups and downs of the media industry. Fannie Flagg's witty writing style shines through the unforgettable cast of characters, making this a page-turner till the end. Highly recommended for those interested in the media industry or anyone looking for a heartwarming read.
My Scandalous Viscount : Number 5 in series - Thryft
Gaelen Foley | Piatkus

My Scandalous Viscount : Number 5 in series

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

67% off est. retail
My Scandalous Viscount is perfect for readers who enjoy historical romance with a twist of mystery and suspense. The book is centered around the Inferno Club, a scandalous group of warriors, and follows Sebastian, Viscount Beauchamp, and his betrothed Carissa as they navigate a compromising situation and unravel dangerous secrets. The chemistry between the protagonists is palpable, and the connection they share despite their differences is the highlight of the book. Foley's writing is vivid and immersive, transporting readers to the sophisticated yet scandalous world of London society.
Wings - Thryft
Danielle Steel | Delacorte Press

Wings

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

89% off est. retail
Wings is an inspiring story of courage and determination as Cassie O'Malley overcomes gender discrimination to pursue her dream of flying. Set in a time when women had few opportunities to break into male-dominated careers, this book is a reminder that with perseverance and determination, anything is possible. It's a perfect read for anyone who loves stories of overcoming obstacles to achieve one's goals.
A Share of Earth and Glory - Thryft
Katherine Giles | Jove

A Share of Earth and Glory

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.36

$3.90

If you have a hunger for a tale that intertwires the intricacies of human desires with the lush tapestry of history, "A Share of Earth and Glory" might be your next great escape. Katherine Giles crafts a story where ambition is as potent as passion, set against a backdrop that breathes life into the romance. Perfect for a reader looking for a historical setting that doesn't skimp on the heat of a fervent love affair.
Icy Sparks - Thryft
Gwyn Hyman Rubio | Penguin Books

Icy Sparks

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.7

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

82% off est. retail
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 Dark Room
Rachel Seiffert | Heinemann

The Dark Room

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

If you're interested in a nuanced exploration of war's perennial shadows, "The Dark Room" is a compelling read. Rachel Seiffert’s debut captures the inheritance of trauma with eloquence, sliding through time to reveal how the past persistently molds the present. The restraint in her prose magnifies the emotional impact, making it a powerful narrative that’s hard to shake off. It's thoughtfully constructed, certainly for someone who appreciates subtlety and the lingering ghost of history.
Natchez Burning - Thryft

Natchez Burning

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

72% off est. retail
If you enjoy novels that marry deep-seated historical issues with edge-of-your-seat suspense, "Natchez Burning" is your next page-turner. Greg Iles doesn't shy away from the brutal history of the American South, weaving past and present in a narrative that's not just about a murder case but also fodder for examining personal and collective conscience. Dive in, and let the rich, morally complex landscape of Natchez, Mississippi, keep you up at night.
The Mammy
Brendan O'Carroll | Gardners Books

The Mammy

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

76% off est. retail
"The Mammy" is a book that charms with its blend of wit and warmth. Widowed Agnes Browne navigates life's ups and downs with a strength that's as inspiring as it is entertaining. If you enjoy a story that celebrates the human spirit with laughter and authenticity, you'll find yourself rooting for Agnes and her brood from the streets of Dublin.
The Royal Boil - Thryft
Paul Dowswell | Ladybird Books Ltd

The Royal Boil

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 3.33

$3.90

If you're looking for a book to help a child make the magical leap into reading, "The Royal Boil" could be a great choice. Its playful approach to sounds and letters is both educational and entertaining, offering a smooth transition from recognizing letters to understanding how they form words and sounds. It's not just a book; it's a reading companion for early learners.
Margot & Me - Thryft
Juno Dawson | Hot Key Books

Margot & Me

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

78% off est. retail
"Margot & Me" might surprise you with its depth. It's not just a tale of teen angst, but a layered exploration of how our perceptions of people change with understanding their past. As you follow Fliss uncovering her grandmother’s wartime secrets, you'll be drawn into a story that dances between eras and emotions, teaching about forgiveness, love, and the complexities of family ties.
Time's Arrow
Martin Amis | Vintage

Time's Arrow

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$8.26

"Time's Arrow" offers a unique reading experience that flips your perspective on time and morality. Amis crafts a story that rewinds through the protagonist's life, presenting a haunting narrative that converges history and personal identity. It's an intelligent and provocative exploration that becomes especially compelling as you near the crux of the tale, where past atrocities are eerily unearthed. This book might just change the way you perceive storytelling.
Kane & Abel
Jeffrey Archer | Harpercollins Publishers

Kane & Abel

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

72% off est. retail
"Kane & Abel" is the kind of novel that will keep you engrossed late into the night. Jeffrey Archer crafts a compelling narrative about destiny and the impacts of our choices, masterfully entwining the lives of two complex characters. It's a recommendation for you if you crave a story that delves into how ambition and animosity can shape lives over decades. The juxtaposition of Kane's and Abel's vastly different beginnings to where their lives intersect creates a tapestry of human experience that's hard to put down.
The First Casualty - Thryft
Ben Elton | Bantam Press

The First Casualty

$8.68 $3.90 55% off

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$8.68 $3.90 55% off

87% off est. retail
If you're captivated by the interplay between the grim realities of war and the moral complexities of justice, "The First Casualty" by Ben Elton is a book you'll find difficult to put down. Through the lens of a crime investigation during WWI, Elton masterfully explores profound truths about humanity in the face of conflict. Combining historical detail with suspense and ethical dilemmas, this novel is likely to stir both your heart and your mind.
The First Casualty - Thryft
Ben Elton | Bantam Press

The First Casualty

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

87% off est. retail
The First Casualty could be an excellent read for those interested in historical fiction, particularly about trench warfare during World War I. Ben Elton's novel captures the horrors of war in a gripping manner while also exploring important moral questions about justice and truth. Readers are bound to be moved by the story of Douglas Konig, a conscientious objector, whose investigation of a murder is set against the backdrop of one of the deadliest battles of the war. Overall, The First Casualty is a powerful work that offers profound insights into the human cost of war.
Amagansett
Mark Mills | Fourth Estate

Amagansett

$11.90 $5.90 50% off

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$11.90 $5.90 50% off

If mysteries wrapped in rich, historical tapestries intrigue you, "Amagansett" will be a rewarding read. Mark Mills merges the raw uncertainty of post-war American life with the timeless rhythm of a fishing town, producing a narrative as deep and unpredictable as the Atlantic waters it describes. It's a novel that not only entertains but immerses you in an atmospheric journey on the edges of the known and the uncharted.
The Hidden Child - Thryft

The Hidden Child

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

$10.90 $4.90 55% off

65% off est. retail
If you're a fan of seamlessly intertwining timelines, "The Hidden Child" promises a riveting ride through history and modern mystery. Camilla Läckberg's talent for crafting a psychological thriller that digs into Europe's darkest past while keeping you engrossed in a contemporary crime story is on full display. It's for readers who love complex characters, chilling secrets, and narrative threads that come together with satisfying precision.
Kiss Like You Mean It - Thryft
Louise Harwood | Pan Macmillan

Kiss Like You Mean It

$11.90 $4.90 59% off

Goodreads rating: 3.26

$11.90 $4.90 59% off

63% off est. retail
"Kiss Like You Mean It" is a heartwarming novel that is perfect for those who enjoy romance and comedy. The book tells the story of a woman who unexpectedly falls in love with her friend's brother, and explores the themes of second chances and self-discovery. Readers will enjoy the witty dialogue and relatable characters that make this book a joy to read.
The Home for Unwanted Girls : The Heart-Wrenching, Gripping Story of a Mother-Daughter Bond That Could Not Be Broken - Inspired by True Events - Thryft
Sold out
Joanna Goodman | Harper Paperbacks

The Home for Unwanted Girls : The Heart-Wrenching, Gripping Story of a Mother-Daughter Bond That Could Not Be Broken - Inspired by True Events

$8.98

Goodreads rating: 4.23

$8.98

68% off est. retail
This book is for anyone who loves emotional stories that tug at the heartstrings. Inspired by true events, "The Home for Unwanted Girls" captures the unbreakable bond between a mother and daughter, separated against their will. Set in 1950s Quebec, the book explores themes of love, secrets, and deceit, taking readers on a gripping journey filled with suspense and heartache. You'll be drawn into the lives of Maggie and Elodie, rooting for them as they navigate a world filled with adversity, and ultimately find the strength to reclaim their truth and family. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions as this compelling story unfolds.
Violeta
Sold out
Isabel Allende

Violeta

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.03

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

60% off est. retail
"Violeta" is like stepping into a sweeping historical tapestry, woven by the masterful Isabel Allende. If you're someone who relishes diving into expansive sagas that span generations, exploring the depths of a character's life from youth to old age, this story will captivate you. It's for readers who find beauty in the resilience of the human spirit, set against the backdrop of historical events.
Water for Elephants : a novel for everyone who dreamed of running away to the circus - Thryft
Sold out
Sara Gruen | Hodder Paperback

Water for Elephants : a novel for everyone who dreamed of running away to the circus

$6.93 $4.85 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$6.93 $4.85 30% off

72% off est. retail
Water for Elephants could be a good read for someone who enjoys historical fiction with a touch of romance and adventure. The book offers a unique insight into the life of circus performers during the Great Depression, and the bond between Jacob and Rosie the elephant is heartwarming. The book also deals with heavy themes such as animal cruelty and abuse of power, making it a thought-provoking read. Overall, the book's vibrant and realistic portrayal of circus life makes it a captivating page-turner.
Great Circle: A Read With Jenna Pick
Sold out
Maggie Shipstead | Vintage

Great Circle: A Read With Jenna Pick

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.1

$9.90

61% off est. retail
If you're drawn to narratives that intertwine bold adventures with deep personal quests, "Great Circle" could be an enthralling read for you. You'll soar through history alongside a pioneering woman who embodies grit and authenticity. As Marian Graves pursues her dream of flight driven by complex relationships and societal challenges, her story resonates on a profound level for anyone seeking a tale of self-discovery and unfettered ambition.
The Kite Runner. Movie Tie-In - Thryft
Sold out
Hosseini | Riverhead Books

The Kite Runner. Movie Tie-In

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.34

$8.26

The Kite Runner is a heart-wrenching story that explores the complexities of relationships, particularly the bond between childhood friends Amir and Hassan in Afghanistan. The book highlights the harsh realities of the political turmoil in Afghanistan and the profound impact it has on individuals and their relationships. The author's vivid descriptions of life in Afghanistan make the story come alive and leave readers with a better understanding of the country's troubled past. A must-read for anyone who enjoys powerful stories of friendship, betrayal, and redemption.
After the Last Dance : Two women. Two love affairs. One unforgettable story - Thryft
Sold out
Sarra Manning | Sphere

After the Last Dance : Two women. Two love affairs. One unforgettable story

$5.99

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$5.99

63% off est. retail
Recommended for readers who enjoy unconventional love stories. Unique feature is the connection between two women separated by time and the unexpected events that unfold in their lives.
Hothouse Flower - Thryft
Sold out
Lucinda Riley | Penguin

Hothouse Flower

$7.61 $5.33 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$7.61 $5.33 30% off

73% off est. retail
Hothouse Flower is a heart-warming tale of love, loss and healing that takes you on a journey through different countries and time periods. The novel's most unique feature is its vivid descriptions of exotic flowers and locations, which are sure to transport readers to another world. If you enjoy historical and romantic fiction, Hothouse Flower is a must-read.
The House on Paradise Street - Thryft
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Sofka Zinovieff | Short Books

The House on Paradise Street

$7.65

Goodreads rating: 3.89

$7.65

72% off est. retail
"The House on Paradise Street" is a good read for those interested in historical fiction. The book delves into 50 years of Greek history, with a focus on love, loss, and family. The most unique feature of this novel is the way it weaves together the personal journeys of the characters with the larger social and political history of Greece. Readers may appreciate the deep emotional resonance of the story as well as the author's skillful writing style that captures the complexities of human relationships and the impact of historical events on everyday lives."
The Mathematics Of Love - Thryft
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Emma Darwin | Headline Review

The Mathematics Of Love

$3.88

Goodreads rating: 3.12

$3.88

78% off est. retail
THE MATHEMATICS OF LOVE is a beautifully written novel that explores how love can transform even the most broken of people. The unique aspect of this book is the use of mathematics to understand relationships. This book is recommended for anyone who loves a passionate love story that is both heartwarming and heartbreaking.
Wings - Thryft
Sold out
Danielle Steel | Corgi Books

Wings

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$8.26

77% off est. retail
From small-town America to a world on the cusp of World War II, Wings is an uplifting story about one woman's fight to fulfil her dreams.From her family's dusty farmland airstrip near Chicago, Cassie O'Malley would look at the planes shimmering in the moonlight and feel the pull of taking to the skies. Her First World War veteran father Pat wanted his son to be a pilot, not his reckless red-haired daughter. But her father's partner Nick, fellow air ace, was willing to break all the rules and teach her to fly.When Cassie is invited to California to become a test pilot, her record-breaking flights make her a media darling. Risking her life, in a world preparing for the Second World War, she decides to chart her own course and pursue her own destiny, whatever it might cost her . . .
Lone Eagle - Thryft
Sold out
Danielle Steel | Corgi

Lone Eagle

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$8.26

54% off est. retail
Danielle Steel's fifty-first bestselling novel tells the story of an extraordinary man, the woman who loved him, and a bond so powerful it could never be broken. It is about finding the courage to let someone you love fly free....The phone call came on a snowy December afternoon. Kate was certain it was Joe, the brilliant, visionary man who had been her soulmate, her driving force since the night they met, almost thirty-four years before. What she got was the one call she had never wanted, and didn't expect. As the snow continued to fall, Kate's mind drifted back, to the moment when she and Joe first met. She had been just seventeen and he was young, powerful, dazzling, and different from any man she'd ever known.It was just days before Christmas, 1940. The war is raging in Europe when Kate Jamison makes her debut in New York City. In a room filled with the scions of East Coast society and the leading political figures of the day, it is Joe Allbright who catches Kate's eye. At twenty-nine, Joe is the brilliant protege of Charles Lindbergh, and already a legend in flying circles for his record-breaking speed and state-of-the-art airplane designs. All Kate sees is a tall, strikingly handsome man who seems at once awkward and larger-than-life, like a shining star -- just out of reach. Joe, too, is caught off balance by his response to Kate, seeing in this beautiful young woman vitality and youth, the lifelong soulmate he never expected to find. As the months pass, they will meet again, forging a bond that will set the course of both their lives. Kate will go off to study at Radcliffe. Joe will skyrocket to fame in modern aviation. Joe's planes are his life, his passion. But irresistibly drawn to her, like moth to flame, he always comes back to Kate. Even after the long, dark years of World War II, when Kate was sure she had finally lost him completely, Joe returns. Never willing to stay, always needing to fly away. As planes are for him, Joe is the passion in her life.When the war is over, at twenty-four Kate wants marriage and a family. Joe wants the world, his limitless horizons, and the unique aviation empire he is building. Unwilling to wait any longer, Kate moves on with her life. But when a chance encounter brings them together again, the time has finally come to make a choice, one that will have profound consequences for them both for the rest of their lives. Against a vivid backdrop of war and thrilling innovation, Danielle Steel breathes life into history, weaving an intensely human story that spans three decades, of two intensely different people who, in spite of themselves, are irrevocably woven into the fabric of each other's lives. With rare insight and emotional power, she brings to life a tale of unconditional love, sacrifice, and compromise -- the joining of two remarkable halves into a single, far more powerful whole. It is a novel of extraordinary grace and compassion from a master storyteller, perhaps the best story she has told.
Sharky's Machine - Thryft
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William Diehl | Ballantine Books

Sharky's Machine

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.72

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

64% off est. retail
Italy, 1944: A squad of American soldiers on a dangerous secret mission is ambushed and slaughtered . . . and a fortune in gold vanishes.Hong Kong, 1959: An aging American colonel, haunted by his wartime past, is brutally murdered in a luxurious brothel.Atlanta, 1975: The last survivor of the fatal World War II ambush in Italy is executed at point blank range in a parking lot.Blowing away a crazed, gun-wielding drug dealer on a crowded city bus gets police detective Sharky bounced from the narc squad into the dreaded dregs of the department--vice. That's where he stumbles on a high-priced call girl and her pimp who are fleecing rich johns in an even higher-priced blackmail scam. Together with his "machine" of hard-bitten vice squad veterans, Sharky closes in for a big sting. He doesn't count on falling for Domino, his alluring target. Or falling into the middle of the murderous design she's a part of--involving a hot presidential candidate, the shadowy multimillionaire who's backing him, and the ice-cold assassin they're using to wipe out the past . . . before it blows their future to hell."Every chapter crackles with sex, violence, and corruption."--The Washington Post"Fast-paced, attention-holding, hard-hitting."--Chicago Tribune"A slam-bang ending that should shock the most jaded thriller reader."--The Associated Press
Radiance - Thryft
Sold out
Shaena Lambert | Virago Press

Radiance

$6.40

Goodreads rating: 3.17

$6.40

65% off est. retail
Radiance is a powerful novel that explores the aftermath of the atomic bomb through the eyes of Keiko, a survivor who is forced to confront her past and navigate a new life in America. The novel's most unique feature is its ability to delve into the intimate emotional experience of its protagonist, which allows readers to connect with and empathize with the trauma of war and its devastating effects on individuals. Readers who enjoy powerful, character-driven stories that explore complex themes such as guilt and healing will find Radiance to be an engaging and thought-provoking read.
Amagansett - Thryft
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Mark Mills | Fourth Estate

Amagansett

$10.62

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$10.62

71% off est. retail
"Amagansett is a thrilling literary mystery that keeps you guessing until the end. The small town community becomes the main character in this novel, as generations of fishermen grapple with the arrival of outsiders and the changing times. Conrad Labarde is a fascinating protagonist, with his Basque heritage and war experience adding layers to his character. The novel tackles issues of class, race, and family secrets, all set against the backdrop of post-World War II Long Island. Mills' beautiful prose paints a vivid picture of Amagansett, making it a must-read for fans of atmospheric mysteries."
Fragrant Harbour - Thryft
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John Lanchester | Faber & Faber

Fragrant Harbour

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

62% off est. retail
If you have an interest in the ebb and flow of history as it affects individual lives, "Fragrant Harbour" might be right up your alley. It's more than just a story; it's an evocative tapestry of personal narratives set against the rich backdrop of Hong Kong's transformation. This book will draw you in with its deep dive into how a place's changing fortunes can shape destinies, offering a poignant look at the past century through intimate eyes.

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.