Suggestions

[Lizzy800]

I am currently on the search of book suggestions, and wondered if anyone here could please help me find some. Books I have highly enjoyed in the past are Janet Fitch's 'White Oleander' and Thomas Christopher Greene's 'mirror lake'.
I am looking for something dark and beautiful, down to earth, realistic and preferably with a strong male narrative, though female narrative is possible. I also do not mind how controversial it is, but I do not want something that is entirely 'safe'.
Thank you in advance

 

[Stewart]

Not so much a male narrative, but dark and realistic and more, is Revolutionary Road by Richard Yates.

 

[beer good]

I haven't read any of the ones you mention, but how about Joyce Carol Oates? Usually female protagonists, but definitely dark, beautiful and down to earth... "We Were The Mulvaneys" or "You Must Remember This", for instance.

Another idea might be Philip Roth. "American Pastoral" is a good one.