For expanding everyday vocabulary at B2-C1 level, I recommend contemporary Dutch novels by authors such as Herman Koch, Saskia Noort, and A.F.Th. van der Heijden. Also consider non-fiction like opinion columns or magazines like De Correspondent. These sources use modern, daily language without simplifying the story.
Modern literary fiction from the past 20 years offers the best balance of natural dialogue and narrative. Herman Koch's "Het diner" is a popular choice: it uses sharp, conversational Dutch in a tense family setting. Saskia Noort writes psychological thrillers with lots of everyday dialogue and informal speech, excellent for picking up idioms and colloquial phrases. For a more literary style, try Tommy Wieringa or Griet Op de Beeck. Their prose is rich but still grounded in contemporary vocabulary. If you prefer non-fiction, read longform journalism from De Groene Amsterdammer or Vrij Nederland. These pieces teach formal yet accessible language used in debates and daily life.
Tradeoffs exist. Literary novels may include poetic or less common words, which stretch your vocabulary but might not be immediately useful. Thrillers and crime fiction (e.g., by Loes den Hollander) give you more direct conversational language. Translations of international bestsellers into Dutch are also fine, but they sometimes retain slightly unnatural phrasing. Stick to original Dutch works for authentic idiom.
To maximize learning, use an e-reader with a built-in dictionary so you can tap unfamiliar words instantly. Alternatively, read a chapter on paper and write down five new phrases per page. You do not need to understand every word; focus on recurring vocabulary. Aim for one book every three to four weeks. Consistent reading is key to advancing towards Dutch fluency, but it works best when combined with speaking practice.
Concrete next steps: pick one novel from the suggestions above, read the first chapter with a dictionary handy, and note 10 expressions you could use in your own conversations. After finishing, move to a different genre or a collection of columns to diversify your exposure.