Review – Riven

Jerry B. Jenkins, multiple mega-best-selling author, best known for the high-octane Left Behind series, took a creative right turn into character-driven fiction to write Riven, a novel he calls “the book of his heart,” which reveals a story line he couldn’t forget. Riven was inspired by a crucifix Jenkins saw at a Catholic retreat center more than twenty years ago. That crucifix birthed an unforgettable story in Jenkins with a unique plot and message. Riven is a Christian novel-with a Christian message painted in bold, unforgettable words.

While the book begins at Adamsville State Penitentiary’s death row, the story rewinds seventeen years to chronicle the lives of unassuming Pastor Thomas Carey, his wife Grace, their family, and an ill-fated young man named Brady Wayne Darby. Darby’s star-crossed girlfriend, Katie, his mother and little brother, Petey complete the major cast characters. Alternating chapters and scenes follow Carey and Darby until their lives intersect in an unforeseen, unpredictable, astounding way guaranteed to shock the reader and bring them to tears.

Although Carey and Darby come from different generations and dissimilar walks of life, each struggle with personal issues that bring them to the mercy seat of Christ-at different times for different reasons. Polar opposites, Carey’s idealism and frustration and Darby’s impulsive decision making because of a loveless, uncaring upbringing, reflect the struggles and often tragic consequences of real life. Complete texts of several classic hymns are cited. Don’t gloss over them, as they are integral to the story.

Some reviewers think Jenkins departure from action-oriented writing to a character-driven style is a wrong choice-in my opinion it is not. The character development of Carey and Darby is essential to understanding the story and its powerful ending. It’s a story of life, compassion, redemption, and the high cost of sin. Riven doesn’t fit into a niche or genre’, but I believe it is slated to become a classic. Jenkins has created in Riven, what Mel Gibson created in the movie The Passion-the reality and humanity of the cross. It will stay with the reader long after the last page is turned.