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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LaVyrle Spencer
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Jove
Family Blessings
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Goodreads rating: 4.1
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The emotional New York Times bestseller from the author of Home Song and November of the Heart. Widowed at an early age, 44-year-old Lee Reston has overcome many obstacles to raise three children and build a successful business. When her eldest son is killed in a motorcycle accident, Lee turns to his 30-year-old best friend for comfort--and falls in love with him.
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William Diehl
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Ballantine
Books
Sharky's Machine
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Goodreads rating: 3.72
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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
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"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."
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Recommended for readers who enjoy action-packed, humorous mysteries featuring witty, strong female protagonists. Hard Eight is a thrilling adventure full of unexpected twists and turns, with Evanovich's signature humor and charming characters. Readers will enjoy following Stephanie Plum as she navigates the dangerous world of fugitive apprehension, all while trying to save a kidnapped child and keep her grandmother's neighbor from losing her home. The addition of the mysterious Ranger and the hilarious Lula make this an entertaining and enjoyable read for fans of the series and newcomers alike.
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Nicholas Sparks
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Grand
Central
Publishing
Dear John
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Goodreads rating: 4.04
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If you've ever wrestled with love and duty, "Dear John" might just resonate deeply with you. Nicholas Sparks is known for his ability to tug at heartstrings, and in this story, he explores the complexities of love when life and responsibility pull people in different directions. It’s a poignant examination of love, choice, and sacrifice that could leave you contemplating the true cost of commitment and the pain of lost love.
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Nora Roberts
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Berkley
Key of Knowledge
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Goodreads rating: 4.13
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This book could be a good read for someone who enjoys a blend of mythology, mystery, and romance. Nora Roberts creates a world where three women must work together to find three keys that unlock the souls of demigoddesses. The main character, Dana, is a passionate book lover with a dream of owning a bookstore. She is faced with a challenge that she must solve in four weeks. The book's most distinctive feature is the blend of mythology and modern-day challenges. Readers have described this book as an easy read that is difficult to put down.
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R.K. Narayan
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Time,
Inc
Book
Division
The Financial Expert
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Goodreads rating: 3.78
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This book is perfect for those who struggle with financial literacy but are interested in money management. Narayan uses relatable anecdotes from Indian life to bring clarity to complex financial concepts. The Financial Expert is the perfect blend of educational and entertaining, with a unique perspective that sets it apart from other books on finance.
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Nora Roberts
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Jove
Jewels of the Sun
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Goodreads rating: 4.22
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Jewels of the Sun could be a good read for anyone who enjoys a romantic novel with a touch of magic. This book is especially captivating in its portrayal of Irish mythology and how it influences the characters' lives. Aiden Gallagher, for instance, adds an extra flavor to the story with his knowledge and passion for his country's history and myths. Readers who love romance novels that are both emotionally and visually evocative would appreciate how the author brings Ireland to life with vivid imagery, details, and folklore.
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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.
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"We Are All Made of Glue" by Marina Lewycka could be the book that brings a smile to your face after a long day. With Georgie's quirky entanglement with her neighbor Mrs. Shapiro, it's a heartwarming blend of humor and mystery that you didn’t know you needed. It has a way of reminding us about the unexpected connections that can profoundly change our lives, all wrapped in a lively narrative that's as sticky and compelling as the adhesives Georgie writes about.
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Patrick Gale
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Harper
Perennial
The Aerodynamics Of Pork
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Goodreads rating: 3.6
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"The Aerodynamics Of Pork could be a good read for those interested in poignant family dramas. Set in Cornwall, this book explores the complexities of love and secrets that unravel during a music festival. The unique feature of the book is the creative way the author interweaves emotions with the scientific principle of aerodynamics, making it a one-of-a-kind read. Users can expect to be captivated by the characters' multidimensional personalities and their intricate relationships, leaving them with a sense of both heartache and hope."
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Per Petterson
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Vintage
Books
Out Stealing Horses
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Goodreads rating: 3.81
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Recommendation: Out Stealing Horses is a poignant story of reminiscence and sorrow that will leave you enchanted. Through Trond's memories of his 15th summer, the author paints a vivid picture of the events that shaped his life forever. Petterson's evocative prose and masterful storytelling are sure to resonate with readers who enjoy melancholic, character-driven narratives.
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Susan Elizabeth Phillips
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Hachette
This Heart Of Mine : Number 5 in series
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Goodreads rating: 4.08
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This book is a good read for fans of sports romance and those who enjoy heartfelt and romantic stories. The unique feature of this book is its portrayal of a struggling children's writer who falls in love with a gorgeous and famous football player whom she has always had a crush on. The book effectively captures the essence of unrequited love, and how it can unexpectedly lead to profound life changes.
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Julie Garwood
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Ballantine
Slow Burn : A Novel
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Goodreads rating: 4.07
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For readers who enjoy a thrilling romance mixed with danger and suspense, Slow Burn is a must-read. The author seamlessly blends action with emotion and creates relatable characters that will have readers on the edge of their seats. The unique aspect of the novel is the recurring bombings that keep the story moving at a breakneck pace, and the men who come to Kate's rescue are both charming and courageous. Overall, Slow Burn is a sensational novel that will appeal to those looking for a captivating romantic suspense story.
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Anita Shreve
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Little,
Brown
And
Company
All He Ever Wanted
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Goodreads rating: 3.21
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This book could be a good read for those who enjoy complex relationships and the darker side of love. With a focus on the protagonist's obsessive love for his wife, the story explores themes of desire, jealousy, and loss. Anita Shreve's writing style is intelligent and graceful, and the characters are unforgettable. It's a perfect choice for those who like reading emotional dramas that delve deep into human psyche.
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Ian Jack
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Granta
Granta 81
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Goodreads rating: 3.63
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As you seek fresh perspectives in contemporary fiction, "Granta 81" stands out as a compilation that captures the early 2000s literary zeitgeist. Woven through the pages are the unique styles and stories of celebrated authors at the dawn of their careers, inviting you to discover the diversity and dynamism that defined a generation of British novelists. This might just be the wellspring of inspiration you've been looking for, especially if you enjoy exploring different authors in one sitting.
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Cecelia Ahern
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Harper
Love, Rosie (Where Rainbows End)
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Goodreads rating: 3.94
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Love, Rosie is a heartwarming tale of two best friends who navigate their lives and feelings for each other through misunderstandings and distance. It offers a unique perspective on how love doesn't always follow a straight path and takes you on a rollercoaster journey of emotions. This book can be a good read for anyone looking for a relatable and realistic love story that explores the complexities of friendship, love, and the different challenges that come with them.
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Julie Garwood
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Simon
&
Schuster
Mercy
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Goodreads rating: 4.16
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"Mercy" is an exciting romantic suspense novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The chemistry between Theo and Michelle is palpable and the danger that surrounds them adds to the tension. The small-town setting and the plot twists are also noteworthy. This book is recommended for readers who enjoy a mix of romance and suspense.
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Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
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4th
Estate
Purple Hibiscus
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Goodreads rating: 4.18
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"Purple Hibiscus" could be a profound experience for you if you're drawn to stories that explore the complexities of family dynamics, personal growth, and political tension. As Kambili's narrative unfolds, you'll find yourself immersed in a world where love and tyranny coexist, prompting reflections on freedom, resilience, and the meaning of home. Plus, Adichie's prose is a delight to read—crafted with care and full of emotional depth.
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Eva Rice
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Review
The Lost Art of Keeping Secrets
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Goodreads rating: 3.96
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The Lost Art of Keeping Secrets is a charming and delightful read for those who love stories set in the past. It beautifully captures the essence of the 1950s, depicting a time of great change and social evolution. Penelope, the main character, is a relatable and endearing young woman navigating her way through life's challenges. Eva Rice's writing style is both elegant and captivating, making it hard to put this book down. Fans of historical fiction and coming-of-age stories will thoroughly enjoy this modern vintage classic.
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Kitty Neale
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Avon,
A
Division
Of
Harpercollins
Publishers
Ltd
Desperate Measures
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Goodreads rating: 4.11
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"Desperate Measures" could be a good read for someone who enjoys gritty dramas with a focus on revenge. The unique aspect of this book is the all-female cast seeking justice against the men who have wronged them. The author creates a raw and realistic portrayal of the women's struggles, delving into themes of trauma and loss, while also providing a gripping plot with suspenseful twists. Readers who enjoy complex characters and dark themes will find this book to be a thrilling read.
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The Dice Man could be a good read for those who are looking for a book that challenges the traditional notions of decision making. The book follows the journey of a bored psychiatrist who decides to let a roll of a dice make all of his decisions for him, leading to unexpected and sometimes dangerous outcomes. The book is entertaining, humorous, scary, shocking, and subversive, making it a perfect choice for those who want to break out of their comfort zones and explore new ways of thinking.
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Recommended for readers interested in social criticism. The book's unique feature lies in its satirical portrayal of the corrupt upper class and racial tensions in 1980s New York. It provides a scathing commentary on the societal decay of the era, making it a must-read for those who enjoy books that critique contemporary issues.
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Dermot Healy
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Faber
&
Faber
A Goat's Song
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Goodreads rating: 4.13
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A Goat's Song is a book for those who enjoy complex and introspective characters, as well as the unique setting of rural Ireland. The novel weaves through the past with a lyrical and haunting prose that captures the raw emotions of love, grief, and regret. Its beauty lies in the vivid and authentic portrayal of the Irish landscape, and the deep insights into the human psyche that Healy delivers with a masterful stroke.
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Ben Elton
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Bantam
Blind Faith
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Goodreads rating: 3.71
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Blind Faith is a thought-provoking commentary on the dangers of a society that values tradition and conformity above rational thought and individuality. It challenges readers to question their own beliefs and to consider the consequences of blindly following authority. The book's most unique and distinctive feature is its blending of elements of dystopian and satirical fiction, resulting in a darkly humorous but unsettling read. If you enjoy books that make you think and challenge your assumptions, Blind Faith is definitely worth reading.
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Janice Kulyk Keefer
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Harper
Paperbacks
The Ladies' Lending Library
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Goodreads rating: 2.6
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The Ladies' Lending Library is a captivating read that paints a vivid picture of a summer filled with rebellion, change, and self-discovery. Keefer beautifully weaves together the lives of the women in the Kalyna Beach cottage community, creating complex characters who struggle with societal expectations and their own desires. Through poignant storytelling, Keefer explores themes of love, loss, and liberation, making it a must-read for anyone looking for a powerful coming-of-age story.
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Lolly Winston
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Arrow
Sophie's Bakery for the Broken Hearted: A Novel
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Goodreads rating: 3.73
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"Sophie's Bakery For The Broken Hearted" could be a great book for readers who have lost a loved one and are looking for a heartwarming and uplifting story of hope and resilience. The book portrays the struggles of the main character Sophie, who tries to navigate life after her husband's death while dealing with her own inner turmoil. Through her journey, readers are taken on a rollercoaster of emotions that end in a fulfilling and optimistic way. The most unique and distinctive feature of the book is how it blends grief and humor with the central theme of baking, making it a light and cozy read, perfect for a reader looking for solace in difficult times.
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John Updike
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Everyman's
Library
Rabbit Angstrom : The Four Novels: Rabbit, Run, Rabbit Redux, Rabbit is Rich, and Rabbit at Rest
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Goodreads rating: 4.25
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Rabbit Angstrom, a series of four novels by John Updike, follows the life of Harry "Rabbit" Angstrom and his family as they navigate the frustrations and triumphs of American life over several decades. Updike's prose is fluid and lyrical, almost athletic, evoking a deep sense of nostalgia and familiarity. A great read for those who enjoy character-driven stories with beautiful writing.
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.
Contemporary Fiction refers to literature set in the current day, often exploring themes relevant to today’s societies, cultures and struggles. Contemporary Fiction mirrors the present world and its challenges.
Try Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Haruki Murakami and Sally Rooney, whose works bring unique voices to the genre, capturing and offering diverse perspectives on modern life. Also we stock popular, bestselling contemporary authors such as Taylor Jenkins Reid, Jojo Moyes and Mitch Albom here!
Yes, definitely! We believe in highlighting local and regional voices. Explore our collection of Asian Contemporary Fiction for novels by Singaporean and Asian writers.