Discover 10 Unforgettable Contemporary Fiction Books of the Decade
Book RaiderIf your bookshelf is overflowing with dust-clad tales from yesteryears and you're itching for something a bit more current, we've got you covered. Hold on to your reading glasses, my friend! We've pulled together a list of some of the most unforgettable contemporary fiction novels of the decade that are bound to shake up your literary palette and remind you that no, not all books these days are about teenagers and dystopian futures.
Get ready for a smorgasbord of characters, plots, and settings that reflect our modern times. From tales that unfold over social media to narratives grappling with racial tensions, climate change, and everything in between. These are the books that have set the literary world ablaze, spurred late-night discussions, and left readers epically book hungover. Who says literature is dead? Certainly not us!
A Man Called Ove
by Fredrik Backman
Why A Man Called Ove is on this list: This book fits perfectly into our list because it's one of those unique contemporary novels that's adored by countless readers, with a compelling plot and unforgettable characters that stick with you, long after you've turned the last page. Plus, it's been a major hit this decade and has become an essential part of many book-lovers' collections.
A Man Called Ove is the story of a curmudgeonly old man who finds his solitary world turned on its head when a boisterous young family moves in next door. This is not just a grumpy guy next door story - it has depth, introspection, and naggingly relatable life insights woven into it. That might sound heavy, but the book actually has quite a gentle pace and an endearing sense of humor.
What readers like: Readers appreciate A Man Called Ove for its blend of comedy and tragedy - the ability it has to make you laugh one minute and pull at your heartstrings the next. People also love Backman's exceptionally charming protagonist, Ove, who, despite his seemingly hard exterior, is a character that's easy to care for and root for. The book's warm and uplifting story, coupled with its interesting study of human nature and relationships, have drawn many readers in, and kept them hooked from cover to cover.
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The Woman in Cabin 10
by Ruth Ware
Why The Woman in Cabin 10 is on this list: Ruth Ware struts onto the contemporary fiction stage and makes herself at home. The Woman in Cabin 10 is a dramatic masterpiece served up with a heaping plateful of mystery that will send chills down your spine. It’s no wonder that this book has earned its spot as one of the most unforgettable reads of the decade.
Say hello to travel journalist Lo Blacklock as she boards a boutique luxury cruise and gears up for what she believes will be a straightforward assignment. Her expectations hop off the ship as she believes she bore witness to a murder. Couple that with no missing persons reports and extremely uncooperative witnesses, and you have a hair-raising narrative hardened into a rambunctious read.
What readers like: Readers love the wild roller coaster ride of suspense and intrigue that Ruth Ware has molded in this story. The gradual build-up to the climax through first-class dialogue is highly appreciated. Fans of the mystery genre have especially praised the book's enigmatic, yet satisfying resolution.
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Big Little Lies
by Liane Moriarty
Why Big Little Lies is on this list: Big Little Lies has made a name for itself as one of the standout contemporary fiction books of this decade. Written by well-known author Liane Moriarty, it masterfully balances the charm of daily life with thrilling suspense, putting it squarely on our list of unforgettable books.
Welcome to the world of three unique women, each on a collision course with life, packing secrets as devastating as they are relatable. Sounds fun, right? This isn't just a book about secrets, friendships, and kindergarten politics, though. At its heart, Big Little Lies touches on issues of domestic violence, societal expectations, and the age-old question: Can you ever really know someone?
What readers like: Readers of Big Little Lies are captivated by Moriarty's gripping storytelling. Simple moments, like school pickups and coffee chats, are woven with suspense and tension you never thought they could hold. Fans are also drawn to Moriarty's razor-sharp wit and uncanny ability to weave larger societal issues into the fabric of the story, without ever losing the plot or the characters' relatability. Ever felt the need to keep reading just one more chapter? Prepare to lose some sleep over this one.
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Little Fires Everywhere
by Celeste Ng
Why Little Fires Everywhere is on this list:
'Little Fires Everywhere' settles you comfortably into the town of Shaker Heights, all neat and tidy, and then hits you unexpectedly with secrets, suspicions, and unforeseen emotions lurking beneath the surface. Just when you start wondering 'What could possibly go wrong in such a perfect little town?', the book answers that question in ways you'd never guess.
What readers like: Readers, we're definite you'd cherish this one for its blend of everyday life with intriguing little mysteries, and most especially for Celeste Ng’s knack of pulling at your heartstrings when you least expect it. Talk about the perfect combo to get you hooked - compelling characters that seem so real, you'd probably start imagining them living next door, and a story line that packs a punch in the feels. Happy reading, folks!
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The Girl on the Train
by Paula Hawkins
Why The Girl on the Train is on this list: This psychological thriller has taken the genre to another level in contemporary fiction. With its massive popularity and unforgettable storyline, this book certainly has left a deep mark on this decade.
This gripping novel revolves around the life of Rachel, a commuter who becomes obsessed with a couple she observes from her train window, fantasizing about their perfect life. But things take a twisted turn when the woman from the 'perfect couple' goes missing and Rachel finds herself entangled in the investigation. The narrative explores the unreliability of memory while delivering a chilling narrative that keeps the readers on edge.
What readers like: Readers were captivated by the complex and flawed characters, the unexpected plot twists, and the masterful way in which Hawkins portrays the dark sides of human nature. The suspense and thrill throughout the book have made it a favorite among lovers of mystery and drama.
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All the Light We Cannot See
by Anthony Doerr
Why All the Light We Cannot See is on this list: This gem ticks all the boxes for the unforgettable contemporary fiction category. It gives a semi-fresh take on World War II scenario, injecting some magical elements, and is filled with rich, linear narratives that will let your imagination fly.
The narrative follows a blind French girl, Marie-Laure, and an orphan German boy, Werner, whose paths collide in occupied France as they both try to survive the devastation of World War II. Doerr's descriptions are so powerful and evocative, you'll feel like you've been transported directly into the smoke-filled air of the war-torn streets.
What readers like: Readers applaud the beautifully intertwined storylines and brilliantly constructed characters, making it hard to put the book down. It's all about the subtle human experiences amidst the war chaos, mixed with a dash of magic, which creates a roller-coaster of emotions for any reader willing to step into the world created by Doerr.
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The Goldfinch
by Donna Tartt
Why The Goldfinch is on this list: Serving up a sumptuous uncommon blend of art, friendship, love and loss, The Goldfinch has all the ingredients to make it one of the most memorable contemporary fiction books of the decade.
The Goldfinch ensnares you in the distinctive, intricate weave of its plot: a young boy in New York City, Theo Decker, miraculously survives an accident that takes the life of his mother. Abandoned by his father, he is taken in by a wealthy family. He is drawn to a small, mysteriously captivating painting that soon pulls him into the underworld of art. Trust us, it's like a thrilling roller coaster ride through an art gallery.
What readers like: Readers are drawn to the beautifully crafted characters placed in extraordinarily challenging situations. The setting is a lively panorama of human experience, with a parrot who'll be your new favourite literary pet. Plus, let's not forget about Tartt’s word wizardry, which will keep any reader entranced till the very end.
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Circe
by Madeline Miller
Why Circe is on this list: With Circe, Madeline Miller casts a completely refreshing spell on the decade's literature. It captures the irreplaceable essence of contemporary fiction by breaking boundaries, blending old myths with a fresh narrative style.
Circe is a magic-infused narrative that introduces us to Circe, the not-so-popular sister of the sun god Helios. Right from the get-go, we don't really expect much from her, do we? But surprise, surprise, she discovers magic powers and rises to be one of the most formidable witches in history. The twist? This witch has nerves of steel and a huge heart. The story unfolds enchantingly, as Circe navigates love, loss, and some really ticked-off gods out to get her.
What readers like: Fans of this book cherish it not just for its magical story, but also for its tender depiction of Circe's growth as a person, or should we say, goddess. Miller has an uncanny knack for breathing life into ancient tales, making readers' hearts skip a beat with well-timed surprises. The narration is as soothing as a grandmother's lullaby, yet as gripping as your favorite thriller. If you're into strong characters, artful storytelling, and a good dash of magic, then Circe could very well be your next best read.
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A Little Life
by Hanya Yanagihara
Why A Little Life is on this list: A Little Life rose to fame as the book that made everyone tear up. As part of the contemporary fiction genre, it characterizes the human experience in an astoundingly accessible way while hitting readers right in the 'feels'. It's so unforgotten, make sure you have a box of tissues at hand when you dive into it.
The book ropes you into the lives of four college classmates moving to New York. But it quickly zeroes in on Jude, a person with a traumatic past, as the central character. As the narrative shifts back and forth in time, you'll unravel the heartbreaking yet intriguing story of Jude's past. While it does help you examine some really tough aspects of human life, it does so without over-romanticizing the harsh realities.
What readers like: Readers absolutely love and value the depth of character development in A Little Life. They rave about Yanagihara’s ability to portray raw and heavy emotions with such sensitivity that you feel deeply connected to the characters. Despite the melancholy overtones, readers enjoy its realistic depiction of friendship and resilience which strongly resonates with them.
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Educated
by Tara Westover
Why Educated is on this list: A little bit memoir, a little bit sociological study, 'Educated' stands out as a contemporary fiction hit that has definitely made its mark. It's dominated book clubs, reading lists, and dinner conversations for good reason. It's quite unlike anything you've read in the past decade.
Imagine growing up without any formal education and then ending up with a PhD from Cambridge University. Sounds like fiction, doesn't it? Well, that's exactly the journey Tara tells in 'Educated'. Raised in a strict and abusive household in rural Idaho, Tara's thirst for knowledge leads her on an incredible, uphill journey of self-discovery.
What readers like: Readers can't stop praising this book's raw honesty and painful beauty. Westover’s brutal, unforgiving recounting of her unconventional life has garnered serious respect. Plus, her prose is clear and evocative. Readers say it's like you're right there with her, gritting your teeth through the tough times and cheering her on during the triumphs.
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