What Are Contemporary Books
What Are Contemporary Books?
I want to note that I do not get paid to do these posts, I just love authors and the book industry. However, they do take time and energy to create. If you want to donate a few dollars to my coffee fund, which keeps this blog going, you can do so here: https://venmo.com/AshleyHasty or here: http://paypal.me/hastybooklist.
Books are like a vast universe, each one a unique world waiting to be explored. They come in a multitude of categories, catering to every taste, interest, and mood. Among these categories, contemporary books stand out as a popular genre, offering readers a glimpse into the modern world and its myriad complexities.
Contemporary literature encompasses stories set in the present day or recent past, reflecting the current social, cultural, and political landscapes. These books capture the essence of contemporary life, addressing relevant issues and themes that resonate with readers. From poignant tales of love and loss to gripping narratives of societal change, contemporary fiction offers a diverse range of experiences for readers to immerse themselves in.
Within the realm of contemporary literature, there exists a rich tapestry of sub-genres, each with its own distinct flavor and appeal. One such sub-genre is contemporary romance, which explores the intricacies of relationships in today's fast-paced world. From heartwarming rom-coms to steamy love stories, contemporary romance novels captivate readers with their relatable characters and emotional depth.
Another sub-genre within contemporary literature is contemporary mystery and thriller, which keeps readers on the edge of their seats with suspenseful plots and unexpected twists. These books often delve into the darker aspects of society, exploring crime, corruption, and the pursuit of justice in a modern context.
Contemporary literary fiction is yet another sub-genre that delves into the human condition with nuance and insight. These novels eschew conventional plot structures in favor of character-driven narratives, offering profound reflections on life, identity, and the human experience.
Contemporary young adult (YA) fiction is also immensely popular, resonating with readers of all ages with its coming-of-age stories and exploration of adolescent themes. From dystopian adventures to slice-of-life dramas, contemporary YA literature captures the essence of youth culture in the digital age.
In addition to these sub-genres, contemporary literature encompasses a wide range of other categories, including contemporary fantasy, contemporary science fiction, and contemporary romance fiction, each offering its own unique blend of imagination, innovation, and insight into the human condition.
In essence, contemporary books serve as a mirror to our modern world, reflecting its complexities, challenges, and triumphs. Whether exploring the intricacies of love and relationships, unraveling thrilling mysteries, or delving into the depths of the human psyche, contemporary literature continues to captivate readers with its diverse array of voices and stories.
18 Best Contemporary Books
Contemporary Romance:
For more contemporary romance novels, check out this list of contemporary romance authors.
The Hating Game by Sally Thorne
Author Interview with Sally Thorne
Plot: Lucy and Joshua, coworkers who share a bitter rivalry, find themselves competing for the same promotion while navigating their growing attraction to each other.
Setting: Modern corporate environment.
What Readers Like: The witty banter, the enemies-to-lovers trope, and the palpable chemistry between the protagonists make this book a delightful romantic comedy.
The Flatshare by Beth O'Leary
Plot: Tiffy and Leon share a flat but have never met, as they work opposite shifts. They communicate through notes, slowly building a connection that transcends their unconventional living arrangement.
Setting: London, contemporary urban setting.
What Readers Like: The unique premise, charming characters, and heartwarming romance make this book a standout in the contemporary romance genre.
Contemporary Mystery/Thriller:
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
Plot: On their fifth wedding anniversary, Amy Dunne disappears, and all signs point to her husband, Nick, as the prime suspect. As the investigation unfolds, secrets and lies come to light, revealing the dark underbelly of their seemingly perfect marriage.
Setting: Small town in Missouri.
What Readers Like: The gripping plot twists, unreliable narrators, and psychological depth make this book a page-turner that keeps readers guessing until the very end.
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
Plot: A group of women in a seaside town becomes embroiled in a web of secrets and scandals surrounding a murder at a school trivia night.
Setting: Coastal community in Australia.
What Readers Like: The complex characters, witty dialogue, and exploration of themes such as motherhood, friendship, and domestic violence make this book a compelling and thought-provoking read.
Contemporary Literary Fiction:
Normal People by Sally Rooney
Plot: Connell and Marianne navigate the complexities of their on-again, off-again relationship as they transition from high school to college and beyond.
Setting: Ireland, contemporary urban and rural settings.
What Readers Like: The raw honesty, intimate portrayal of characters, and exploration of class, love, and mental health make this book a poignant and relatable coming-of-age story.
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Author Interview with Delia Owens.
Plot: Kya Clark, known as the "Marsh Girl," grows up isolated in the marshes of North Carolina. When a local man is found dead, she becomes the prime suspect, and her past comes to light through a series of flashbacks.
Setting: Coastal North Carolina.
What Readers Like: The atmospheric setting, lyrical prose, and blend of mystery, romance, and coming-of-age elements make this book a captivating and immersive read.
Contemporary Young Adult (YA) Fiction:
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
Plot: Hazel Grace Lancaster, a sixteen-year-old cancer patient, meets and falls in love with Augustus Waters, a fellow cancer survivor, at a support group. Together, they navigate the challenges of illness, love, and loss.
Setting: Contemporary Indianapolis.
What Readers Like: The authentic portrayal of teenage emotions, the witty dialogue, and the exploration of life's big questions make this book a poignant and unforgettable read for both teens and adults.
Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
Plot: Eleanor, a quirky outsider, and Park, a half-Korean misfit, form an unlikely bond over comic books and mixtapes on the school bus, navigating the ups and downs of first love amid family dysfunction and societal prejudice.
Setting: 1980s Omaha, Nebraska.
What Readers Like: The unconventional love story, authentic characters, and sensitive exploration of issues such as bullying, poverty, and identity make this book a timeless and relatable coming-of-age tale.
Contemporary Fantasy:
American Gods by Neil Gaiman
Plot: Shadow Moon, a recently released convict, becomes embroiled in a conflict between old gods and new gods as he accompanies the enigmatic Mr. Wednesday on a cross-country journey across America.
Setting: Contemporary America.
What Readers Like: The blend of mythology, folklore, and contemporary culture, as well as the richly drawn characters and thought-provoking themes, make this book a modern classic in the fantasy genre.
Ninth House by Leigh Bardugo
Plot: Galaxy "Alex" Stern, a young woman with the ability to see ghosts, is recruited to Yale University's secret societies, where she investigates occult activities and dark forces threatening the balance between the living and the dead.
Setting: Contemporary Yale University campus.
What Readers Like: The dark, atmospheric setting, complex characters, and blend of supernatural elements with real-world institutions make this book a gripping and immersive urban fantasy thriller.
Contemporary Science Fiction:
The Martian by Andy Weir
Plot: After being left for dead on Mars during a manned mission, astronaut Mark Watney must use his ingenuity and resourcefulness to survive while NASA and his crewmates work to rescue him.
Setting: Mars and space.
What Readers Like: The gripping survival story, humor, and scientific accuracy make this book a thrilling and engaging read, appealing to both science fiction enthusiasts and general readers alike.
Station Eleven by Emily St. John Mandel
Plot: In the aftermath of a devastating pandemic that wipes out most of humanity, a traveling theater troupe navigates a dangerous world haunted by memories of the past, exploring themes of art, resilience, and the enduring power of human connection.
Setting: Post-apocalyptic North America.
What Readers Like: The lyrical prose, interwoven narratives, and poignant exploration of humanity's capacity for both destruction and renewal make this book a haunting and ultimately hopeful meditation on survival and civilization.
Contemporary Satire/Humor:
Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan
Plot: When Rachel Chu accompanies her boyfriend, Nick Young, to his home in Singapore for a wedding, she discovers his family's extravagant wealth and navigates the complexities of high society and familial expectations.
Setting: Singapore and contemporary Asian diaspora.
What Readers Like: The hilarious social commentary, opulent settings, and colorful characters make this book a delightful and entertaining romp through the world of the ultra-rich.
Dear Committee Members by Julie Schumacher
Plot: Written in the form of letters of recommendation, the novel follows Jason Fitger, a beleaguered English professor, as he navigates academic politics, personal crises, and the absurdities of university life.
Setting: Contemporary academia.
What Readers Like: The sharp wit, biting humor, and satirical take on the bureaucratic absurdities of higher education make this book a laugh-out-loud read for anyone who has experienced the world of academia.
Contemporary LGBTQ+ Fiction:
Call Me By Your Name by André Aciman
Plot: Set in 1980s Italy, the story follows the passionate summer romance between seventeen-year-old Elio Perlman and twenty-four-year-old graduate student Oliver, exploring themes of desire, identity, and the complexities of love.
Setting: Northern Italy.
What Readers Like: The sensual prose, evocative setting, and nuanced exploration of sexuality and desire make this book a beautifully written and emotionally resonant portrayal of first love.
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
Plot: When Alex Claremont-Diaz, the son of the U.S. President, has a public feud with Prince Henry of Wales, they are forced to stage a fake friendship for the media. As they spend time together, their animosity turns to attraction, leading to a secret romance that could upend both of their lives.
Setting: Contemporary America, England, and Europe.
What Readers Like: The charming characters, witty banter, and heartwarming romance, as well as the exploration of themes such as identity, politics, and the pressures of public scrutiny, make this book a delightful and uplifting read.
Contemporary Women's Fiction:
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert
Plot: Drawing on her own experiences as a writer, Elizabeth Gilbert explores the nature of creativity and offers practical advice and inspiration for living a creative life.
Setting: Contemporary world.
What Readers Like: The empowering message, engaging storytelling, and insightful reflections on the creative process make this book a must-read for anyone seeking to tap into their own creative potential.
Where'd You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple
Plot: When eccentric architect Bernadette Fox disappears just before a family trip to Antarctica, her fifteen-year-old daughter, Bee, sets out to unravel the mystery of her mother's disappearance by piecing together clues from emails, documents, and testimonies.
Setting: Seattle, Washington.
What Readers Like: The quirky characters, inventive narrative structure, and satirical take on contemporary life, as well as the exploration of themes such as identity, family dynamics, and the pursuit of creative fulfillment, make this book a hilarious and thought-provoking read.
Each of these contemporary books offers readers a unique and compelling journey into the complexities of the modern world, whether through romance, mystery, literary fiction, young adult themes, fantasy, science fiction, historical settings, satire, LGBTQ+ narratives, or women's fiction. With their diverse characters, richly drawn settings, and thought-provoking themes, these books continue to captivate readers and resonate long after the final page is turned.
