Best Literary Fiction Book Recommendations

What is literary fiction, you may ask? Often described as "serious" literature (think the Great American Novel), literary fiction often doesn't fit neatly into the parameters of other genres, and is usually more character-driven than plot-driven. But don't let that lofty definition put you off—plenty of literary fiction is accessible, fascinating, and all the more interesting for its fully fleshed-out characters. In fact, some of the most popular books of all time are literary fiction.

At the same time, a literary fiction label doesn’t mean a novel can’t have elements of other genres—there’s plenty of books shelved as literary suspense, literary romance, or even literary fabulism. You can expect these kinds of novels to still have those genre traits, but with elevated writing styles and more character development.

Another hallmark of literary fiction is the prizes. From Booker Prize winners to National Book Award winners to Pulitzer Prize winners, literary fiction features the kind of writing that deserves all the accolades.

Intrigued? Dive in to our lists of recommended literary fiction books below.

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Prolific, acclaimed, and multi-faceted: three commonly-used descriptors of Dan Wakefield that any writer would sell their soul to be described as. 

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There’s more to discover outside of your favorite author’s six books.

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“The woods are full of regional writers, and it is the great horror of every serious Southern writer that he will become one of them.” ―Flannery O'Connor

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If you were looking for a list of books that will revolutionize your worldview, you've found it. 

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“In principle and reality, libraries are life-enhancing palaces of wonder.” —Gail Honeyman, Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine

Every Book by V.C. Andrews, In Order

It’s been said that much of her real life was just as tragic as the lives of the protagonists in her debut novel Flowers in the Attic. 

Angela Thirkell and Her 29 Adventures into Barsetshire

Writing so rich makes us wish we could live in Barsetshire too. 

Remembering Ellen Gilchrist, 1935-2024

The National Book Award Winner was known for her sharp writing.

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These picks are definitely “read by the fireplace” worthy. 

5 Books About Characters Navigating the Afterlife

“Just as when we come into the world, when we die we are afraid of the unknown. But the fear is something from within us that has nothing to do with reality. Dying is like being born, just a change.” —Isabel Allende

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Many of 2023's best movies were based on books.

A Death Doula Faces Life in This Charming Novel

The taboo subject of death becomes a reason to celebrate.