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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Walking to Hollywood: Memories of Before the Fall
Will Self | Bloomsbury Uk

Walking to Hollywood: Memories of Before the Fall

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Goodreads rating: 3.03

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If you're into novels that stretch the bounds of reality and venture into the absurd, Will Self's "Walking to Hollywood" could be a thrilling read for you. Self takes you on a bizarre trip through a heightened version of our world, where the boundaries between personal narrative and fantastical elements blur, challenging your perceptions of celebrity, success, and madness. This book isn't just a read; it's a mind-bending experience.
Entering Normal - Thryft
Anne D. LeClaire | Orion Paperbacks

Entering Normal

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Goodreads rating: 3.55

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"Entering Normal" is an evocative pick for anyone who's seeking a story of resilience and the transformative power of unexpected relationships. Anne D. LeClaire has a way of delicately exploring the depths of human emotion, ideal for those who appreciate narratives about starting anew and forming bonds that transcend life's challenges. This tale of two contrasting women finding common ground in a small town will reel you in with its heartfelt exploration of loss, motherhood, and the quest for belonging.
Super-Cannes - Thryft
J.G. Ballard | London: Flamingo

Super-Cannes

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Goodreads rating: 3.7

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"Super-Cannes" is for those who love probing beneath the glossy surface of utopias. Ballard's Eden-Olympia is a playground for the elite, but it slowly spirals into something much darker. It's a powerful social commentary on modern capitalism masked as a psychological thriller. If you're drawn to books that offer a razor-sharp dissection of the human psyche within seemingly perfect worlds, this one will grip you as the layers peel away to reveal the unnerving truth lying beneath.
The Garlic Ballads - A Novel - Thryft

The Garlic Ballads - A Novel

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The farmers of Paradise County have been leading a hardscrabble life
unchanged for generations. The Communist government has encouraged them to
plant garlic, but selling the crop is not as simple as they believed.
Warehouses fill up, taxes skyrocket, and government officials maltreat even
those who have traveled for days to sell their harvest. A surplus on the
garlic market ensues, and the farmers must watch in horror as their crops
wither and rot in the fields. Families are destroyed by the random
imprisonment of young and old for supposed crimes against the state. The
prisoners languish in horrifying conditions in their cells, with only their
strength of character and thoughts of their loved ones to save them from
madness. Meanwhile, a blind minstrel incites the masses to take the law
into their own hands, and a riot of apocalyptic proportions follows with
savage and unforgettable consequences. The Garlic Ballads is a powerful
vision of life under the heel of an inflexible and uncaring government. It
is also a delicate story of love between man and woman, father and child,
friend and friend—and the struggle to maintain that love despite
overwhelming obstacles.


Authors: Mo Yan, Howard Goldblatt
Publisher: Arcade
Publication Date: 2012
The Year's Best Science Fiction Twenty-Ninth Annual Collection

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If you love exploring diverse realms and complex ideas, this collection is a treasure trove. It's perfect for dipping into a variety of the year's top sci-fi narratives, handpicked for their creativity and vision. You'll be introduced to the forefront of speculative fiction, where each story offers a unique adventure that reflects the best the genre has to offer.
Blame - Thryft
Simon Mayo | Penguin Random House

Blame

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Goodreads rating: 3.74

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Recommendation: "Blame" is a thought-provoking read that tackles important issues such as social injustice and resilience in the face of adversity. This YA suspense thriller is a must-read for those who enjoy stories of overcoming insurmountable obstacles and defying societal expectations. The unique premise of the book, where the characters are imprisoned due to the crimes of their parents, adds a distinctive edge to this captivating story. Simon Mayo's writing style is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end."
The Originals - Thryft
Cat Patrick | Egmont Electric Monkey

The Originals

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Goodreads rating: 3.81

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This book would be a captivating read for fans of dystopian novels with a unique twist. The story follows three clones living secret lives as one person, but when love enters the picture, everything changes. Cat Patrick’s "The Originals" explores themes of identity, deception, and the power of love in a world where being true to oneself comes with dire consequences. Prepare to be swept away on a thrilling and emotional journey as the secrets behind the clones are unraveled.
Searching for Sky - Thryft
Jillian Cantor | Bloomsbury Childrens

Searching for Sky

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Goodreads rating: 3.72

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Recommendation: Searching for Sky is a heart-wrenching tale of a young girl, Sky, who is forced to leave her home and embark on a journey to find her beloved friend, River. The book is a powerful depiction of survival and love in a world that can be both harsh and beautiful. It is recommended for readers who enjoy emotional stories of human resilience and determination.
Double Cross
Malorie Blackman | Penguin

Double Cross

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Goodreads rating: 4.13

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"Double Cross" will grip you with its raw portrayal of a world entangled in racial tension and gang violence, seen through the eyes of Tobey and Callie Rose. It's a powerful narrative that combines the personal and the political, relevant for those who appreciate stories that reflect on societal issues and the impact of individual choices. If you are drawn to books that challenge perceptions and offer a profound commentary on human nature, Malorie Blackman's storytelling will not disappoint.
Dear Mr. President : Stories and a Novella - Thryft
Gabe Hudson | Vintage

Dear Mr. President : Stories and a Novella

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Goodreads rating: 3.65

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If you're drawn to the surreal juxtaposition of gritty war realism and fantastical elements, "Dear Mr. President" would intrigue you. Gabe Hudson stitches together the absurdity of war-induced transformations—physical and psychological—through humor that's as unsettling as it is sharp. It's a read that promises to challenge your perceptions of war's impact with an imaginative twist.
Hello America - Thryft
J.G. Ballard, Tim White| Triad/panther

Hello America

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Goodreads rating: 3.36

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Envision being on an expedition across a desolate America, rediscovered—a landscape transformed by climatic upheavals. J. G. Ballard's "Hello America" offers such an adventure wrapped in social commentary and vivid imagery. If the idea of exploring a world both familiar and alien excites you, where the ruins of a once-great civilization prompt reflection on our own, this book could seize your imagination.
The Queen in Hell Close
Sue Townsend | Penguin Books

The Queen in Hell Close

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Goodreads rating: 3.59

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If you enjoy a good laugh wrapped in sharp satire, Sue Townsend's "The Queen in Hell Close" serves it up with glee. Imagine upending the world of the British royals and placing them in everyday, humdrum life on a council estate. It gives a playful yet biting perspective on class and society that you might find both humorous and thought-provoking.
Tumble and Fall - Thryft
Alexandra Coutts | Square Fish

Tumble and Fall

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Goodreads rating: 2.96

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Tumble and Fall follows three teenagers as they navigate their lives in the face of an impending asteroid strike. The book explores themes of love, friendship, and family, reminding readers to make the most of the time they have. With its compelling characters and powerful message of hope, Tumble and Fall is a must-read for anyone looking for a thought-provoking and emotional journey.
Up in the Air
Walter Kirn | Hodder & Stoughton

Up in the Air

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Goodreads rating: 2.88

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"Up in the Air" resonates with the modern professional who's always on the go, where airports and hotels feel like second homes. If you've ever felt both liberated and trapped by your career, Ryan Bingham's journey – physically and emotionally aloft – could echo your own search for meaning amidst the miles. It's a smart, humorous look at the oddities of corporate culture and the pursuit of a life less ordinary.
Oh, Play That Thing - The Last Roundup
Roddy Doyle | Vintage Books Usa

Oh, Play That Thing - The Last Roundup

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Goodreads rating: 3.28

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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.
The Life and Opinions of Maf the Dog, and of His Friend Marilyn Monroe

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If the glitz and glam of 20th-century Hollywood, combined with a unique narrative twist sounds intriguing to you, then diving into "The Life and Opinions of Maf the Dog, and of His Friend Marilyn Monroe" will be a treat. Witnessing events and changes from the perspective of Marilyn Monroe's canine companion offers you a fresh lens on history and celebrity culture, making this book a distinctive read that cleverly blurs the lines between fiction and reality.
Shoplifting from American Apparel
Tao Lin | Melville House

Shoplifting from American Apparel

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Goodreads rating: 3.14

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"Shoplifting from American Apparel" offers a raw slice of contemporary urban life through the eyes of an introspective young writer. It's a book that delves into the existential musings of the millennial generation, crafting a narrative that's both strikingly mundane and deeply reflective. If you're interested in a glimpse into the subcultures of modern America and the internal dialogues that shape our perceptions of success and morality, then this novella by Tao Lin might just resonate with you.
The Loneliness Of Distant Beings - Thryft
Kate Ling | Little, Brown Books For Young Readers

The Loneliness Of Distant Beings

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Goodreads rating: 3.47

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This young adult science fiction novel blends interstellar travel with a heart-warming romance, exploring the theme of loneliness in a unique and perceptive way. The book's standout feature is its vivid and detailed world-building, which immerses readers in a thrilling intergalactic adventure. Overall, The Loneliness of Distant Beings is a recommended read for anyone looking for a poignant and captivating sci-fi love story.
Another Night, Another Day - Thryft
Sarah Rayner | Macmillan

Another Night, Another Day

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Goodreads rating: 3.7

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If the complex tapestry of human emotions intrigues you, 'Another Night, Another Day' is a journey you'd want to embark on. Sarah Rayner crafts a poignant narrative about overcoming personal struggles, through the supportive bond formed among individuals who were once just strangers. It showcases the power of connection and the beauty of finding solace in shared experiences, wrapped in a story that's both moving and relatable.
Girls with Sharp Sticks - Thryft
Suzanne Young | Simon Pulse

Girls with Sharp Sticks

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Goodreads rating: 3.95

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If you're a fan of thrilling mysteries with unexpected twists and a touch of subversion, "Girls with Sharp Sticks" is the perfect book for you. Join Mena and her friends as they uncover the secrets of Innovations Academy, a seemingly perfect boarding school. This gripping tale will keep you at the edge of your seat with its high-octane drama and thought-provoking ethical questions. Get ready for a chilling and empowering read that will leave you rooting for these brave girls until the very end.
The Bone Clocks - Thryft
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David Mitchell | Sceptre

The Bone Clocks

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Goodreads rating: 3.84

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Recommended for fans of surrealist fiction and engaging narrative. Immerse yourself in a world of murderous feuds and precognition phenomena through the eyes of Holly Sykes, as David Mitchell delivers a spellbinding masterpiece that meditates on mortality and chronicles our self-devouring times.
The Power
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Naomi Alderman | Little, Brown And Company

The Power

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Goodreads rating: 3.76

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"The Power" by Naomi Alderman could be a thrilling read for anyone who enjoys dystopian fiction with a radical twist. It turns societal norms on their head, giving women the ability to cause pain or even death with a flick of the fingers. This book will make you view the world through a startling new lens as it delves into the implications of a complete power shift between genders. It's a narrative that's as engaging as it is thought-provoking, perfect for readers looking for a story that challenges the status quo.
In the Country of Last Things - Thryft
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Paul Auster | Faber And Faber

In the Country of Last Things

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Goodreads rating: 3.91

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This book is a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction. With its spare and ritualistic prose, it creates a chilling reflection of our own world. The author's masterful storytelling keeps you hooked until the very end, leaving an indelible impact on your mind. Prepare to be haunted by the vivid imagery and thought-provoking themes that this book presents.
The Porcupine
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Julian Barnes | Vintage Books

The Porcupine

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Goodreads rating: 3.44

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If politics and courtroom dramas intrigue you, "The Porcupine" by Julian Barnes might just be the book you're looking for. Julian Barnes deftly explores the fall of totalitarianism in a gripping narrative that pits old regime against new in a battle of wits and wills. With its concise prose and insightful look at human nature, you're likely to find yourself engrossed in the strategic game between a fallen leader and the embodiment of a new era.
Klara and the Sun : The Times and Sunday Times Book of the Year - Thryft
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Klara and the Sun could be a good read for someone who wants to explore the complexities of love and AI in a rapidly-changing world. Through the eyes of Klara, an Artificial Friend with exceptional observation skills, the book delves into the concept of love and the challenges it poses in a society influenced by technology. Kazuo Ishiguro brings a unique perspective to this thought-provoking narrative, posing the question of what it truly means to love in a world where human emotions and artificial intelligence intersect.
Stone Mattress: Nine Tales
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Margaret Atwood | Nan A. Talese

Stone Mattress: Nine Tales

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Goodreads rating: 3.89

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For fans of Margaret Atwood's sharp wit and deep exploration of human psychology, "Stone Mattress: Nine Tales" offers a sumptuous platter. Each story is a testament to her ability to weave dark humor with insightful critiques of society, crafting narratives that are both engaging and provocative. The interconnected stories tug at the complexities of human relationships, and the collection stands as a fascinating glimpse into the eclectic range of Atwood's storytelling prowess.
Divided Kingdom - Thryft
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Rupert Thomson | Vintage

Divided Kingdom

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Goodreads rating: 3.48

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Divided Kingdom is a thought-provoking dystopian novel that presents a unique take on political divisions and societal decay. This book is recommended for readers who enjoy exploring political and social issues through fictional narratives. Rupert Thomson's writing style is both engaging and vivid, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the story.
Blind Faith - Thryft
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Ben Elton | 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.
More Than This - Thryft
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Patrick Ness | Walker Books

More Than This

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Goodreads rating: 3.95

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More Than This is a novel that explores the question of what happens after we die. It is filled with surprises and suspense as the protagonist navigates a world that may or may not be real. Recommended for readers who enjoy thought-provoking, mind-bending stories that keep you guessing until the very end.
Girls with Razor Hearts - Thryft
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Suzanne Young | Simon Pulse

Girls with Razor Hearts

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Goodreads rating: 3.8

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This book is a thrilling and subversive read that takes place in a near future where girls fight back against their oppressors. It explores themes of trauma, friendship, and the cost of freedom. You'll be captivated by the resilience and courage of the girls as they navigate a world that is both unwelcoming and cruel. Girls with Razor Hearts will empower and inspire you to stand up for what you believe in. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions and a powerful story that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.

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.