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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.
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
These underappreciated writers deserve your attention.
They're not bad—they're just written that way.
Learn more about the woman behind influential pieces of literature such as The Color Purple.
The Jazz Age literary icon who couldn't resist living to excess.
Strange worlds full of even stranger people.
Harrowing tales from Florida to Kentucky.
Find your next journey through the tumultuous lives of the gifted, obsessive, and unlikely individuals driven to success in these books like The Queen's Gambit.
By Kara Brand
A “Modern Prometheus” that left a timeless mark.