30 Books Like Exciting Times

Ottessa Moshfegh's novel about a young woman attempting to escape life's emptiness through a year-long drug-induced sleep, exploring themes of grief and alienation.

Meg Wolitzer's novel tracing the lives of six friends from a summer camp for the arts into adulthood, examining ambition, envy, and the bonds of friendship.

Edan Lepucki's psychological thriller about two women entangled in art, motherhood, and secrets in Los Angeles, blurring the lines between truth and deception.

Edna O'Brien's novel following two Irish girls leaving their rural home for Dublin, exploring themes of friendship, sexuality, and the search for independence.

Miranda Popkey's novel composed of dialogues between women over two decades, delving into desire, shame, and the complexities of female experience.

Jennifer Egan's Pulitzer-winning novel connecting diverse characters across time, exploring themes of music, time, and the transformative nature of life.

Marcy Dermansky's darkly comic novel about entangled relationships between a student, her professor, and her mother, satirizing wealth, privilege, and desire.

Kiley Reid's novel addressing race and privilege through the story of a young Black babysitter accused of kidnapping while working for a well-intentioned white family.

Rufi Thorpe's novel about an unlikely friendship between two misfit teens, exploring violence, identity, and the search for acceptance in suburban California.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's story of a Nigerian woman immigrating to America, tackling themes of race, love, and identity across continents and cultures.

Susan Choi's novel set in a 1980s performing arts high school, exploring adolescent love and manipulation, and challenging perceptions of truth and memory.

Lauren Groff's exploration of a marriage over two decades, revealing differing perspectives and hidden secrets, examining love, creativity, and ambition.

Julie Buntin's novel about a teenage friendship marked by intensity and tragedy, reflecting on the lasting impact of formative relationships and loss.

Jeffrey Eugenides' novel centered on a love triangle among recent college graduates, exploring intellectual pursuit, mental health, and the search for meaningful connection.

A novel delving into the intricacies of love and place, examining how environments shape relationships and personal growth.

A book exploring the significance of quality and authenticity in creation, whether in art, relationships, or personal endeavors.

David Nicholls' story following two people on the same day each year over two decades, capturing the evolution of friendship, love, and missed opportunities.

Haruki Murakami's nostalgic tale of love and loss in 1960s Tokyo, following a college student's complex relationships and emotional maturation.

Sally Rooney's novel about the profound yet complicated relationship between two Irish teenagers as they navigate social dynamics, love, and personal growth into adulthood.

A novel exploring the intimate and revealing conversations that occur in the quiet hours, delving into secrets, relationships, and self-discovery.

Megan Nolan's raw portrayal of a young woman's obsessive and destructive relationship, examining themes of desire, self-worth, and vulnerability.

A story about a woman navigating traditionally male-dominated spaces, exploring gender roles, identity, and the search for authentic connections.

Brit Bennett's novel about twin sisters who choose different racial identities, exploring themes of family, identity, and the lasting impact of choices across generations.

Anna Burns' stream-of-consciousness novel set in Northern Ireland, depicting a young woman's struggle with rumor and harassment amidst political unrest.

Brit Bennett's debut novel about a young woman coping with grief and a life-altering decision, exploring community, secrets, and the paths not taken.

Lily King's novel about a struggling writer navigating love, grief, and creative ambition in her early thirties, capturing the uncertainty of artistic pursuit.

Coco Mellors' novel depicting a whirlwind marriage between a young British painter and an older American advertising executive, exploring love, art, and self-destruction.

Elif Batuman's novel following a Turkish-American freshman at Harvard navigating language, culture, and first love, blending humor and introspection.

Maggie Shipstead's novel about a ballerina who helps a Soviet dancer defect, exploring the sacrifices and passions within the world of professional dance.

A story exploring personal and professional growth through challenges and unexpected lessons, highlighting resilience and adaptability.