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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.
Lit fic lovers will devour these mysterious reads.
By Grace Felder
Looking for a good book to jumpstart your reading habit?
Meet the woman who inspired Virginia Woolf's most fanciful novel.
See which of his books belong on your TBR list.
Enter now to win 3 brand new books.
Check out the cinematic classics that started out as novels.
These works deserve a whole lot more attention.
By Orrin Grey
Don't be put off by the term "literary fiction."
Tensions reach unbearable heights in these dark explorations of the human psyche, the inescapability of our pasts, and more.
“If literary romance is your genre, this book is for you.” —Men Reading Books
The best of an imprint that digs deep into lost classics.
Take a trip from the streets of Tokyo to the seaside villages of Japan.
By Jenni Reid
The Roaring 20s was a time of true change for a world that had just recovered.
Stories don’t feel the same the second time around.
By Abby Ausmus
“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.”―Virginia Woolf
By Nicole Klett