The Women

by T.C. Boyle
The Women cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Biography and Memoir
Buy online
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 10169
  • Added: 2026-01-16
  • Updated: 2026-01-16
  • ISBN: 9780143116479
  • Publisher: National Geographic Books
  • Published: 2009-12-29
  • Reviews: 3

T.C. Boyle's 'The Women' offers a vivid and witty portrayal of Frank Lloyd Wright's life, as seen through the experiences of the four women who were integral to his story. From the Montenegrin beauty Olgivanna Milanoff to the tragic Mamah Cheney, each woman brings a different perspective to Wright's creative and tumultuous life. Boyle's signature style shines as he captures the essence of these women and the intricate dynamics of their relationships with the iconic architect. /n/n The novel delves into the complexities of love, ambition, and creativity, providing a multifaceted view of Wright's personal and professional life. Through the lens of these women, readers gain insight into the man behind the architectural genius, revealing a life filled with passion, conflict, and enduring legacy.

Reviews
Books Are My Favourite and Best · 2012-10-19
engrossing 4.50

The book is a dense and immersive read, with a rich narrative that captures the complexity of the characters and their relationships. The author's attention to detail and historical accuracy is commendable.

This novel is a deep dive into the life and relationships of its central figure, offering a nuanced portrayal of the women who were part of his world. The writing is dense and immersive, with a rich narrative that captures the complexity of the characters and their relationships. The author's attention to detail and historical accuracy is commendable, making it a compelling read for those interested in historical fiction. The story is told from a unique perspective, adding a layer of intrigue and depth to the narrative. The characters are well-developed, and their interactions are portrayed with a sensitivity that brings the story to life.

Quick quotes

    The Women is an immense book in so many ways.

    Not only is it a remarkably solid read (only 450 pages but there's no white space and the print is small).

    It's a dense, immersive read that captures the complexity of the characters and their relationships.

Reviews by Lola's Blog · 2010-02-26
captivating 4.75

The story is beautifully woven and fascinating from beginning to end. The central figure's romantic endeavors are almost unbelievable, adding a layer of intrigue to the narrative.

This review praises the novel for its beautifully woven story, which is fascinating from beginning to end. The central figure's romantic endeavors are almost unbelievable, adding a layer of intrigue to the narrative. The characters are well-developed, and their interactions are portrayed with a sensitivity that brings the story to life. The historical context is richly detailed, making it a compelling read for those interested in historical fiction. The author's writing style is engaging, and the story's pacing is well-balanced, keeping readers hooked until the very end.

Quick quotes

    The Women was a wonderfully woven story that fascinated from beginning to end.

    Wright was an intriguing man whose romantic endeavors are almost unbelievable.

    The characters are well-developed, and their interactions are portrayed with a sensitivity that brings the story to life.

The Guardian · Sarah Churchwell · 2009-03-06
mixed 3.50

The story is both entertaining and frustrating, offering a unique perspective on the life of a renowned architect. The narrative is engaging, but some aspects of the story may leave readers feeling unsatisfied.

Sarah Churchwell's review highlights the dual nature of the novel, which is both entertaining and frustrating. The story offers a unique perspective on the life of a renowned architect, with a narrative that is engaging and well-crafted. However, some aspects of the story may leave readers feeling unsatisfied, particularly the portrayal of the architect's failings. The characters are well-developed, and the historical context is richly detailed, making it a compelling read for those interested in historical fiction. The author's writing style is engaging, but the story's pacing and some of its plot points may not resonate with all readers.

Quick quotes

    Entertained and frustrated by the story of a great architect's failings.

    The novel offers a unique perspective on the life of Frank Lloyd Wright.

    The characters are well-developed, and the historical context is richly detailed.

Appears in Lists