Ken Follett's Never is a thrilling political drama that expertly weaves multiple global narratives into a tense, interconnected plot. Critics praise the novel's rich characters and intricate storytelling. However, some note an occasional slow pace and overly detailed descriptions. Overall, it’s a compelling read for fans of international intrigue and high-stakes scenarios.

Fans of geopolitical thrillers and intricate narratives will be captivated by Ken Follett’s Never. Readers who appreciate Tom Clancy's The Hunt for Red October or Robert Harris's Munich will find Follett’s masterful storytelling and layered characters similarly engrossing. Ideal for those who relish high-stakes drama and global intrigue.

Never by Ken Follett is a geopolitical thriller that follows spies, diplomats, and world leaders as they confront global terrorism, navigate complex international relations, and work to prevent an escalation of tensions between the US, China, and North Korea from culminating in nuclear war. The narrative spans multiple continents, interweaving subplots of espionage, diplomacy, and personal struggles. The book contains depictions of sexual violence, statutory rape, human trafficking, misogyny, PTSD, racism, and terrorism.

Suspenseful / Mysterious / Dark / Challenging / Emotional

Ken Follett

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Never and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Never Summary and Study Guide

Background

Never Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “DEFCON 5: Lowest State of Readiness”

Prologue-Part 1, Chapter 9

Never Prologue-Part 1, Chapter 9 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 10-19

Never Part 1, Chapters 10-19 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “DEFCON 2: Above Normal Readiness”

Part 2 Never Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “DEFCON 3: Increase in Force Readiness”

Part 3 Never Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “DEFCON 2: One Step from Nuclear War”

Part 4 Never Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “DEFCON 1: Nuclear War Is Imminent or Has Begun”

Part 5 Never Part 5 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Never Character Analysis

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Themes

Never Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Never Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Never Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Never Essay Topics

Never

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Never?

Reading Age

Book Details