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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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Don't Miss This Year's Epic Historical Fiction Love Story

Fans of Cold Mountain will devour The End of Drum-Time.

11 Books by Pulitzer Prize Winning Author Alison Lurie 

“You can't write well with only the nice parts of your character, and only about nice things. And I don't want even to try anymore. I want to use everything, including hate and envy and lust and fear.” ―Alison Lurie

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With stories old and new, these gothic horror novels have the classic dark mood you love and the modern twists you can't resist.

All of Viet Thanh Nguyen's Books

“I never called myself a writer because it seemed so pretentious - a writer was what somebody else called you, a title bestowed.” -Viet Thanh Nguyen

10 Indigenous Authors You Should Read This Month

Celebrate Native American Heritage Month with a powerful read.

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The Day of the Dead celebrates those who have left us.

8 Books for Fans of Reservation Dogs

Spirituality meets coming of age in these beautiful tales.

[CLOSED] Giveaway: Win a Prize Pack of Alice McDermott Books

Including her newest book, Absolution, which is being published on October 31, 2023.

10 Books for Fans of Shonda Rhimes

"The best stories are often true…The narrative of human life is most beautiful when told truthfully and without boundaries.” —Shonda Rhimes

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Books on friendship that pay tribute to the families we choose