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Books matching: contemporary fiction

100 result(s)

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Showing 1 - 10 of 100 
  1. #1

    A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
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    A Man Called Ove is a heartwarming story about a grumpy old man, Ove, who is grieving the death of his wife and contemplating suicide. However, his plans are constantly interrupted by new neighbors and various situations that force him to interact with the world around him. The book delves into Ove's past, revealing the reasons behind his grumpiness and showcasing his transformation as he forms unexpected connections with those around him. The writing style is described as charming, sweet, and humorous, with a balance between touching moments and light-hearted humor.

    He drives a Saab. He’s the kind of man who points at people he doesn’t like the look of, as if they were burglars and his forefinger a policeman’s flashlight. He stands at the counter of a shop where ...

  2. #2

    Normal People by Sally Rooney
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    'Normal People' by Sally Rooney follows the complex relationship between two young individuals, Marianne and Connell, as they navigate through high school and college years, dealing with issues of miscommunication, self-worth, and emotional struggles. The story delves into the intricacies of their evolving friendship and love, portraying realistic dialogues and character interactions that highlight the challenges faced by the protagonists as they grow and change over time. Rooney's writing style captures the uncertainties and vulnerabilities of the characters, creating a narrative that explores themes of love, friendship, and personal growth.

    She turns and walks down the hall. He follows her, closing the door behind him. Down a few steps in the kitchen, his mother Lorraine is peeling off a pair of rubber gloves. Marianne hops onto the coun...

  3. #3

    The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
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    "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a classic American novel set in the 1920s, depicting the excesses and struggles of the Jazz Age. The story follows the enigmatic Jay Gatsby who transforms himself to win back his lost love, Daisy Buchanan, showcasing themes of the corrupting influence of wealth and the elusive nature of the American Dream. Fitzgerald's writing style is praised for its clear, melodious prose with engaging rhythm, and the book is noted for its rich symbolism and portrayal of flawed and complex characters.

    He didn’t say any more, but we’ve always been unusually communicative in a reserved way, and I understood that he meant a great deal more than that. In consequence, I’m inclined to reserve all judgmen...

  4. #4

    A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
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    'A Gentleman in Moscow' by Amor Towles is a captivating tale following the life of Count Alexander Rostov, a Russian aristocrat placed under house arrest in a luxurious hotel in Moscow following the Russian Revolution. Despite his confinement, Rostov forms deep friendships, navigates the changing political landscape, and finds meaning and purpose within the confines of the hotel. The book spans several decades, offering a glimpse into Russian history from the revolution to the early 1950s, all seen through the eyes of the charismatic and resilient Count.

    Within the hour, he would be in the warm spring air striding along Tverskaya Street, his moustaches at full sail. En route, he would purchase the Herald from the stand on Gazetny Lane, he would pass F...

  5. #5

    Anxious People by Fredrik Backman
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    'Anxious People' by Fredrik Backman is a story that revolves around a bank robbery gone wrong, where the bank robber inadvertently takes a group of people hostage during an apartment showing. The novel delves into the lives of these characters, their personal dramas, and their interactions as they navigate through this unexpected situation. The writing style of the book is described as quirky, humorous, heartwarming, and filled with insightful observations about human nature and relationships. The plot unfolds in a small town in Sweden on New Year's Eve, with a mix of humor, pathos, and wise words about life and love.

    A bank robbery. A hostage drama. A stairwell full of police officers on their way to storm an apartment. It was easy to get to this point, much easier than you might think. All it took was one single ...

  6. #6

    My Brilliant Friend - The Neapolitan Novels by Elena Ferrante
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    "My Brilliant Friend" by Elena Ferrante is a captivating novel that follows the friendship between two intelligent girls, Elena and Lila, as they navigate the impoverished and violent setting of mid-twentieth century Naples. The story delves into their diverging paths in life, detailing Elena's academic pursuits and Lila's struggles with family obligations and early marriage. Through rich period details and intricate character development, the book explores themes of friendship, rivalry, societal expectations, and the complexities of growing up in a challenging environment.

    Elena Ferrante's writing style in "My Brilliant Friend" is praised for its ability to vividly capture the essence of childhood and adolescence, blending detailed descriptions with insightful reflections on life. The narrative, told from Elena's perspective, offers a child's view of the world while weaving in deeper themes of friendship, societal norms, and personal growth. The book sets the stage for a compelling quartet that delves into the evolving relationship between Elena and Lila against the backdrop of post-war Italy.

    Lila appeared in my life in first grade and immediately impressed me because she was very bad. In that class we were all a little bad, but only when the teacher, Maestra Oliviero, couldn’t see us. Lil...

  7. #7

    The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro
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    The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro is a poignant and introspective novel that follows the life of Mr. Stevens, a butler reflecting on his dedicated service at Darlington Hall. Through a series of memories and musings, the book delves into themes of loyalty, dignity, the impact of personal relationships, and the consequences of unwavering dedication to one's work. The narrative unfolds as Stevens embarks on a journey through England's countryside, providing a backdrop for his contemplation of past events and relationships, particularly with the housekeeper, Miss Kenton.

    Tonight, I find myself here in a guest house in the city of Salisbury. The first day of my trip is now completed, and all in all, I must say I am quite satisfied. This expedition began this morning al...

  8. #8

    My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh
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    'My Year of Rest and Relaxation' by Ottessa Moshfegh follows an unnamed narrator, a young woman in New York City who, after inheriting her parents' wealth, decides to spend a year in a drug-induced sleep, cutting off contact with the world. The book delves into themes of depression, escapism, and societal disdain, as the narrator navigates a year of numbness and self-imposed isolation, reflecting on relationships, privilege, and the pursuit of rest and relaxation. Moshfegh's writing style is described as dark, raw, and honest, capturing the protagonist's apathy and vulnerability, while also maintaining a sense of humor and quirkiness throughout the narrative.

    WHENEVER I WOKE UP, night or day, I’d shuffle through the bright marble foyer of my building and go up the block and around the corner where there was a bodega that never closed. I’d get two large cof...

  9. #9

    The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett
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    'The Vanishing Half' by Brit Bennett tells the story of light-skinned identical twins, Desiree and Stella, who leave their small town where lightness of skin is highly valued. Stella decides to pass as a white woman, while Desiree marries a dark man and returns to their hometown with her dark-skinned daughter. The novel explores the lives of the daughters of the twins, spanning from Louisiana to New York City, delving into themes of race, identity, family dynamics, and the consequences of choices made.

    The book is a multigenerational family saga that intricately weaves together the lives of the twin sisters, their daughters, and explores themes of racial identity, gender, family relationships, and the impact of societal norms. The writing is beautiful, the story thought-provoking, and the characters feel real, making it a compelling and immersive read that spans decades and various locations.

    The morning one of the lost twins returned to Mallard, Lou LeBon ran to the diner to break the news, and even now, many years later, everyone remembers the shock of sweaty Lou pushing through the glas...

  10. #10

    Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata
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    'Convenience Store Woman' by Sayaka Murata is a quirky and atmospheric novel that delves into the life of Keiko, a woman who has worked at a convenience store for 18 years. Keiko finds comfort and satisfaction in her job, despite societal pressures to conform and lead a more traditional life. The book explores themes of societal norms, individuality, and the struggle to fit in, all through the lens of Keiko's unique perspective. The writing style is described as fresh, simple, and emotionally charged, making it a quick and absorbing read that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

    A convenience store is a world of sound. From the tinkle of the door chime to the voices of TV celebrities advertising new products over the in-store cable network, to the calls of the store workers, ...

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