60 pages • 2 hours read
Never
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Book Brief
816
Novel • Fiction
Various Locations • Contemporary
2021
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
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
Reviews & Readership
115,243 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
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.
Who Should Read Never?
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.
115,243 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Abdul John Haddad
Abdul John Haddad
A Lebanese American spy with a deep understanding of Middle Eastern culture, working undercover against terrorist threats while coping with personal traumas.
Kiah
Kiah
A young widow and mother from a Chadian village facing difficult circumstances, whose resilience and decisive actions drive her to ensure a better future for herself and her son.
President Pauline Green
President Pauline Green
A capable and pragmatic US President navigating political challenges and personal uncertainties while leading her country during a time of global tensions.
Chang Kai
Chang Kai
A high-ranking Chinese intelligence officer balancing loyalty to his familial communist roots with his connections to Western influences amid internal political maneuverings.
816
Novel • Fiction
Various Locations • Contemporary
2021
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.