Riven Rock

by T.C. Boyle
Riven Rock cover
Good Books rating 4.08
Historical Fiction
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Technical
  • ID: 10167
  • Added: 2026-01-16
  • Updated: 2026-01-16
  • ISBN: 9781408826799
  • Publisher: A&C Black
  • Published: 2011-07-01
  • Reviews: 3

Riven Rock is a poignant tale of love and madness, based on the real-life story of Stanley McCormick and Katherine Dexter. Stanley, heir to the Reaper fortune, marries Katherine, a woman of immense power and beauty. Their love is tested when Stanley is diagnosed with schizophrenia and confined to the isolated mansion of Riven Rock. Despite his condition and the strictures imposed by his psychiatrists, Katherine remains steadfast in her belief that he will one day return to her. The novel is rich in historical detail, capturing the essence of the turn-of-the-century America and the societal changes of the time. /n/n The story explores themes of love, mental illness, and the societal constraints of the era. Katherine's advocacy for women's suffrage and Planned Parenthood adds a layer of historical significance to the narrative. The book is a profound exploration of human resilience and the enduring power of love in the face of adversity.

Reviews
Amazon · 2026-01-16
Great 4.00

They find the story fascinating and the characters complex and intriguing. The writing style is engaging and holds the reader's attention.

This reader has always enjoyed T.C. Boyle's writing and finds Riven Rock to be no exception. They are particularly drawn to the three main characters, finding them complex and intriguing. The story is fascinating, and the writing style is engaging, making it a compelling read. The historical context adds depth to the narrative, enhancing the overall reading experience.

Quick quotes

    I've always loved T.C. Boyle's writing and this one doesn't disappoint.

    It's a fascinating story with three complex and intriguing main characters.

    The historical context adds depth to the narrative.

Pixel Ladies · 2019-03-26
Good 3.75

They appreciate the fictionalized account of the marriage between an MIT graduate and the heir to the International Harvester fortune. The novel provides a unique perspective on a historical period.

This reviewer finds Riven Rock to be a compelling fictionalized account of a notable historical marriage. The novel offers a unique perspective on the early 20th century, exploring the dynamics of a complex relationship against the backdrop of societal norms and psychiatric treatment. The storytelling is engaging, and the historical detail adds richness to the narrative.

Quick quotes

    Riven Rock: the fictionalized account of the marriage between an MIT graduate and the heir to the International Harvester fortune.

    The novel provides a unique perspective on a historical period.

    The storytelling is engaging, and the historical detail adds richness to the narrative.

BookReporter · 1999-01-01
Excellent 4.50

They consider this one of Boyle's best novels, praising its depth and complexity. The historical context is vividly brought to life.

This reviewer believes that Riven Rock is a standout among Boyle's works, highlighting its rich historical detail and intricate character development. They appreciate how the novel delves into the complexities of early 20th-century psychiatric treatment and the societal norms of the time. The story is both engaging and thought-provoking, offering a unique perspective on a fascinating period in history.

Quick quotes

    RIVEN ROCK is a very, very good book.

    It is, perhaps, T. C. Boyle's best novel yet.

    The novel delves into the complexities of early 20th-century psychiatric treatment.

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