Divided into two parts, Outerbridge Reach interweaves in part one the narratives of the principal characters leading up to the beginning of the race. In the second part of the novel the race itself serves to connect the quest undertaken by Owen with the personal crisis confronting Anne in her relationship with Strickland. Similar to his other novels, Outerbridge Reach is intricately structured, incorporating a variety of thematic variations and contrasting locales. The novel maintains a consistent level of intensity and builds to a climatic resolution as Owen's voyage and Anne's affair come to an abrupt and pitiful end.

Noteworthy in the novel is Stone's use of language to enhance both narrative flow and characterization. Alternating between expressive prose and vernacular speech, Stone is particularly adept at creating vivid imagery and convincing dialogue. As a novelist, Stone is highly influenced by film and the texture of the narrative...