Unwind with These 9 Relaxing Literary Fiction Books
Book Raider"Let's agree on something, shall we? The world is a wildly chaotic place most times. And in the midst of all the commotion, you’re bagging groceries, or crunching numbers or cooking dinner while trying to get paint out of your three-year-old's ear, all this multitasking can make even the most resilient among us beg for a moment of respite.
Enter, the sanctuary of a good book. But not just any book, oh no. We're talking about literary fiction books that wrap around you like a cozy blanket, steeped in chamomile tea, offering an immersive experience that isn't about fast-paced action or mind-bending twists. These are books that massage your psyche, create a bubble of calm and make you go “Ah, that hit the spot”."
The Light of Paris
by Eleanor Brown
Why The Light of Paris is on this list: There's nothing like an epic journey of self-discovery in the romantic city of Paris to help you unwind after a long day. In the marvellous 'Light of Paris', Brown's masterful storytelling becomes the perfect mental message.
In this captivating tale, we meet Madeleine who is stuck in a loveless marriage and an unfulfilling life. Unexpectedly, she stumbles upon an old diary of her grandmother Margie, which tells tales of her adventures in Jazz Age Paris. Both women's stories intertwine, taking us on a liberating journey full of hope, heartache and, self-discovery.
What readers like: Readers have been dazzled by Brown's ability to elegantly create contrasting worlds and time frames. They enjoy the poetic quality of her writing, the rich development of characters and, of course, being whisked off to the dreamy city of Paris at every reading session.
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The Jetsetters
by Amanda Eyre Ward
Why The Jetsetters is on this list: The Jetsetters is a book that lets you escape to far-flung locales from the comfort of your cosy armchair. You navigate emotional rapids and explore complex relationships, all while keeping your feet up and sipping on a hot cuppa. Truly an exercise in relaxation and discovery.
When 70-year-old Charlotte wins a Mediterranean cruise, she decides to reunite her estranged children on the journey of a lifetime. The book follows the family through four European locales, uncovering an intricate web of secrets, rivalries, and strained bonds. Draped in a cloak of humor and warmth, the narrative is a perfect blend of the poignant and the fun, making for a splendidly tranquil read.
What readers like: Readers have raved about Amanda Eyre Ward's engaging storytelling that draws you in and makes you one with the quirkiest of her characters. They have venerated how even whilst portraying the complexities of relationships and dealing with life's taken-for-granted travails, the book remains a light, rejuvenating read. It’s also noted for making readers want to pack their bags and embark on their own grand (although probably less dysfunctional) family adventure.
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Transcendent Kingdom
by Yaa Gyasi
Why Transcendent Kingdom is on this list: Transcendent Kingdom slices through the nostalgic and sometimes frenzied pacing of day-to-day life to a place of introspection and internal dialogue. You'll find yourself unwinding as you enter a tranquil state of self-discovery, healing, and peace.
This novel combines a poignant family saga with the rigor of scientific inquiry. It follows the story of Gifty, a Ghanaian immigrant in America, as she navigates the complexities of faith, science, and the memories of her family she left behind. It's a beautiful deep dive into the psychology of an immigrant family, the conflicts between religion and science, and the struggle to find personal redemption.
What readers like: Readers rave about the novel's gorgeous prose and rich character development. They appreciate Gyasi's ability to handle heavy themes with grace, warmth, and a touch of wit. The book's intriguing themes and authentic exploration of a woman's inner life have resonated with many. It's a chance to relax and reflect, while being moved by a tale both deeply personal and universally relatable.
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Late in the Day
by Tessa Hadley
Why Late in the Day is on this list: Late in the Day, a brilliant work of Tessa Hadley, is as calm as a stress-relieving yoga session - it's a perfect book to unwind with. The detailed narrative and dash of wit make it a literary fiction you can't ignore.
This deeply engrossing book unearths the complex relationships between two couples who have been friends for decades. When one of them unexpectedly passes away, it sets off a chain reaction of emotions and reveals secrets they didn’t even knew existed. Yes, it's a bit like binge-watching a whole season of your favourite drama in your PJs, only better.
What readers like: Readers applaud this book for its richly drawn characters and subtle exploration of friendship and love. They appreciate the thoughtful prose, vivid descriptions, and the sarcastic yet insightful commentary on everyday life. Oh, and the plot twists? They'll keep you hooked like an addictive TV show. Only without the annoying ad breaks.
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The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet
by Becky Chambers
Why The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet is on this list: Looking for something to take you a long way from your to-do list? This one will transport you halfway across the universe. A perfect recipe for relaxation - just add tea.
Join a motley crew of space explorers on a wild ride through a universe teeming with strange creatures, exotic planets and oddball humour. Enjoy their journey to a small, angry planet way out in the cosmos. It’s a book that takes space travel, humanitarian themes and interpersonal relationships, throws them all into a blender, and serves up a smoothie of humour, heart, and thought-provoking goodness.
What readers like: Readers appreciate the lighthearted charm, spirited banter and unpretentious humanity of the diverse cast of characters. They're also seriously into the book's witty writing and richly detailed world-building, which make complex concepts like hyperspace travel and alien species feel easy as pie. The excellent storytelling makes our universe feel painstakingly real. One piece of advice: don't start this book on a work night, unless you're okay with showing up to work sleep-deprived the next day.
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Never Have I Ever
by Joshilyn Jackson
Why Never Have I Ever is on this list: This book is a great pick to loosen up with due to its mix of dark humor and heart-warming moments. The narrative is gripping from start to finish, but never stressful.
Never Have I Ever is a thrilling game of suburban truth or dare, where from the outside, everything seems perfect. However, Amy Whey's picturesque life takes a dark turn when a stranger tries to ruin it with a long-buried secret. But Amy isn't going to back down without a fight. This is a tale of a group of friends trying to hide their past, coming to terms with the truth, and protecting what's important to them.
What readers like: Readers appreciate the depth of the characters, the twisty plot, and the dark humor. Joshilyn Jackson's writing style is engaging that many have described as 'addictive'. It's a page-turner, but also kind of like a calm evening walk in the scary woods of humanity.
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American Dirt
by Jeanine Cummins
Why American Dirt is on this list: American Dirt takes you on an immersive, emotional journey that's so riveting you'll barely notice you're chilling out while you read it. Really, it's a two-for-one deal: a captivating story and a form of stress relief. Can't beat that, can you?
American Dirt is a novel about a bookstore owner in Acapulco, Mexico, who has to flee drug cartel violence with her son and make a perilous journey to the United States. It's a deeply eye-opening look at the struggles and hopes of migrants, vividly and compassionately brought to life through the nuanced storytelling skills of Jeanine Cummins.
What readers like: Readers absolutely love the emotional depth of the characters, the vivid descriptions that transport you right into the heart of the story, and the way it manages to handle a serious and complex topic with warmth, dignity, and even a dash of humor. It's the kind of book that feels rich and satisfying, like a well-made dark chocolate bar or a really superb pair of fluffy slippers.
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Things You Save in a Fire
by Katherine Center
Why Things You Save in a Fire is on this list: This book is both a refuge and a joyride, a perfect blend of light-hearted humor and heartfelt sentiment to loosen up with. No, it's not an actual spa, but this book drawing you in with warmth and solace for your harried soul, is as good as one.
The story revolves around a resilient female firefighter named Cassie, who faces moving back home to care for her ailing mother, only to stumble upon love in the most unexpected of places. It’s a journey about finding calm amidst life’s flames and finding love where you least expect.
What readers like: Reader folks delve into this book craving some good old-fashioned drama sprinkled with a healthy dose of romance and heartwarming relationships, not to mention a remarkable protagonist whose spirit will make you cheer, maybe even hopping off your couch. Did we also mention it's a perfect couch companion for your Netflix binges? Just so you know.
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Natalie Tan's Book of Luck & Fortune
by Roselle Lim
Why Natalie Tan's Book of Luck & Fortune is on this list: Just like a steaming bowl of comfort soup, this book is the perfect ingredient to unwind with. It's a soothing tale that combines a pinch of warmth, a spoon of family history, and a heap of self-discovery.
Coming home to San Francisco after seven years, Natalie Tan finds herself inheriting her grandmother's restaurant in the magical Chinatown. This, along with the daunting challenge of cooking three recipes from her grandmother's mysterious cookbook to help her troubled neighbors, takes Natalie on an unforgettable journey filled with surprises and self acceptance.
What readers like: Readers loved the beautifully crafted narrative filled with deep emotions, the vivid descriptions of food that can literally make your tummy rumble, and the sprinkling of enchanted realism. If you like a side of magical food with your heartwarming tale, you'll probably devour this book in no time.
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