What is the title of Ken Follett's historical fiction novel published in 2025?

The historical fiction novel by Ken Follett published in 2025 is titled 'Circle of Days'. This title refers to the cyclical nature of time and the monumental structure at the heart of the story.

Who is the author of the novel 'Circle of Days'?

The author of 'Circle of Days' is Ken Follett, a Welsh author known for his historical and thriller novels.

Which actor is credited with reading the audio version of 'Circle of Days'?

The audio version of 'Circle of Days' is read by Richard Armitage, an English actor recognized for his work in film, television, and stage.

What is the primary genre of 'Circle of Days'?

The primary genre of 'Circle of Days' is historical fiction, a genre that blends historical events and settings with fictional narratives and characters.

Which publishing house released 'Circle of Days' in the United States?

Grand Central Publishing, an American book publisher, released 'Circle of Days' in the United States.

When was 'Circle of Days' officially published?

The official publication date for 'Circle of Days' was 23 September 2025.

What is the total page count of 'Circle of Days'?

The novel 'Circle of Days' has a total page count of 752 pages, indicating a substantial length typical of historical sagas.

What is the ISBN for 'Circle of Days'?

The ISBN (International Standard Book Number) for 'Circle of Days' is 978-1538772775. An ISBN is a unique commercial book identifier used by publishers, booksellers, libraries, and internet retailers for ordering, listing, and stock control purposes.

What historical period serves as the setting for Ken Follett's 'Circle of Days'?

Ken Follett's 'Circle of Days' is set in the Neolithic period, specifically around 2500 BCE, which is the era when the ancient monument of Stonehenge was created.

What personal connection does Ken Follett have to Stonehenge, which inspired his novel?

Ken Follett's personal connection to Stonehenge dates back to his childhood when he visited the site with his family. Later, his wife, Barbara Follett, worked on transforming the historical landmark into a public site during her tenure as Minister for Culture, Tourism and the Creative Industries from 2008 to 2009.

What specific book sparked Ken Follett's interest in writing a novel about Stonehenge?

Ken Follett's interest in writing a novel about Stonehenge was specifically sparked when he encountered the 2022 book 'How to Build Stonehenge' by archaeologist Mike Pitts.

What methods did Ken Follett employ for his research process while writing 'Circle of Days'?

For his research process, Ken Follett drove around Salisbury, England, and utilized his imagination to envision how people lived, what they called themselves, and the motivations behind building Stonehenge during prehistoric times.

Who were the consultants for Ken Follett's 'Circle of Days' project?

The consultants for Ken Follett's 'Circle of Days' project included archaeologist Mike Pitts, whose book inspired the novel, and Phil Harding, another archaeologist.

When was the publishing deal for Ken Follett's next novel, 'Circle of Days', announced?

The publishing deal for Ken Follett's next novel, 'Circle of Days', with Hachette Book Group was announced on May 13, 2024.

When did Hachette announce the expected release date for 'Circle of Days'?

Hachette announced the expected release date of September 23, 2025, for 'Circle of Days' on October 15, 2024.

Which publishers are responsible for releasing 'Circle of Days' in the United States and the United Kingdom?

Grand Central Publishing is responsible for publishing 'Circle of Days' in the United States, while Quercus is the publisher for the United Kingdom.

When and where was the cover for 'Circle of Days' exclusively revealed?

The cover for 'Circle of Days' was exclusively revealed by 'People' magazine on March 12, 2025.

How is society structured in the prehistoric setting of 'Circle of Days'?

In the prehistoric setting of 'Circle of Days', society is divided into various tribes, with their names reflecting their primary roles, such as miners, herders, woodlanders, and farmers. This tribal division suggests a specialized and interdependent community structure.

What is the purpose of the wooden Monument in the novel's setting?

The wooden Monument serves as a central gathering place where the people meet each season for religious rites and festivities, which are led by priestesses. This indicates its significance as a spiritual and communal hub.

Who is the primary protagonist of 'Circle of Days', and what is his background?

The primary protagonist of 'Circle of Days' is Seft, who is introduced as a former flint miner. He joins the herder community to escape his abusive family, suggesting a journey of seeking refuge and a new life.

Who does Seft partner with in the story?

Seft partners with Neen, a girl to whom he was immediately attracted during a previous Rite. This partnership likely forms a significant romantic or collaborative element in the narrative.

What is Joia's role and ambition in 'Circle of Days'?

Joia, Neen's younger sister, finds her calling as a priestess. Her ambition is further highlighted when the wooden Monument is destroyed, as she becomes determined to rebuild it in stone, signifying a desire for permanence and spiritual renewal.

What environmental challenge do the people face in 'Circle of Days'?

The people in 'Circle of Days' face a severe drought, which leads to widespread starvation and causes unwillingness among the tribes to share their dwindling resources. This environmental crisis exacerbates existing tensions.

Who leads the farmers, and what conflict arises with the herders?

The farmers are led by Troon, a character described as misogynistic and violent. Under his leadership, tensions escalate, leading to war against the herders, indicating a significant inter-tribal conflict driven by power and resources.

What did Bethany Latham of 'Booklist' observe about the plot of 'Circle of Days'?

Bethany Latham of 'Booklist' observed that 'Circle of Days' features a familiar Ken Follett plot with a large cast of characters focused on advancement, assuring readers that they 'will find the epic tale they seek.' This highlights the novel's adherence to Follett's established narrative style.

What were Holly Smith's criticisms of 'Circle of Days' in the 'Washington Independent Review of Books'?

Holly Smith of the 'Washington Independent Review of Books' offered an ambivalent review, criticizing 'Circle of Days' as 'wildly oversimplified,' noting its usual casting of overt heroes and villains, and describing the dialogue as 'clunky.' These points suggest a less nuanced approach to character and narrative.

What is the overall subject matter of 'Circle of Days' as indicated by its setting?

The overall subject matter of 'Circle of Days' revolves around the prehistoric era and the monumental undertaking of building Stonehenge, exploring the lives, conflicts, and spiritual beliefs of the people who lived during that time.

What is the significance of the 'Circle of Days' title in relation to the novel's plot?

While the source does not explicitly state the significance, the title 'Circle of Days' likely refers to the cyclical nature of seasons, religious rites, and the passage of time in the Neolithic period, as well as the circular structure of Stonehenge itself, which is central to the plot.

How does the destruction of the wooden Monument impact the character Joia?

The destruction of the wooden Monument profoundly impacts Joia, leading her to become determined to rebuild it in stone. This event serves as a catalyst for her character's development and her commitment to her role as a priestess.

What role do priestesses play in the society depicted in 'Circle of Days'?

Priestesses play a significant leadership role in the society depicted in 'Circle of Days', as they are responsible for leading the religious rites and festivities that occur seasonally at the wooden Monument. This suggests their importance in the spiritual and social fabric of the community.

What kind of conflicts are explored in the plot of 'Circle of Days'?

The plot of 'Circle of Days' explores various conflicts, including personal struggles like Seft escaping an abusive family, environmental challenges such as a devastating drought leading to resource scarcity, and inter-tribal warfare instigated by figures like Troon against the herders. These conflicts highlight the harsh realities of prehistoric life.

How does Ken Follett typically craft his literary sagas, according to Philip Zozzaro?

According to Philip Zozzaro of 'Library Journal', Ken Follett typically crafts his literary sagas by populating them with compelling characters, a characteristic that 'Circle of Days' is noted to continue. This approach helps to engage readers in long-form narratives.

What common elements of Ken Follett's writing style are present in 'Circle of Days', as noted by Bethany Latham?

Bethany Latham of 'Booklist' noted that 'Circle of Days' features common elements of Ken Follett's writing style, including a large cast of characters and a focus on advancement, which combine to create an epic tale. This consistency in his work is often appreciated by his readership.

What specific criticisms did Holly Smith raise regarding the characterization in 'Circle of Days'?

Holly Smith specifically criticized the characterization in 'Circle of Days' for its 'usual casting of overt heroes and villains,' suggesting a lack of complexity or subtlety in the portrayal of its characters. This implies a clear distinction between good and evil roles.

What aspect of 'Circle of Days' did 'Kirkus Reviews' find particularly pleasing for fans?

'Kirkus Reviews' found the novel's 'dramatic, complex imagining of the origins of Stonehenge' to be particularly pleasing for fans. This indicates that the historical reconstruction and the narrative surrounding the monument's creation are strong points of the book.

What is the significance of the year 2500 BCE in the context of the novel?

The year 2500 BCE is significant in the context of the novel because it is the specific prehistoric period when the story is set, coinciding with the time when Stonehenge was being constructed. This precise historical anchoring grounds the fictional narrative.

How do the different tribes interact during times of crisis in 'Circle of Days'?

During times of crisis, specifically a drought that causes starvation, the different tribes in 'Circle of Days' exhibit tension and an unwillingness to share resources. This highlights the challenges of cooperation and survival in a harsh prehistoric environment.

What does the character Troon represent in the narrative of 'Circle of Days'?

The character Troon, described as a misogynistic and violent leader of the farmers, represents a source of conflict and aggression in the narrative of 'Circle of Days', particularly in his instigation of war against the herders. He embodies the darker aspects of human nature and tribal conflict.

What is the language in which 'Circle of Days' is written?

The language in which 'Circle of Days' is written is English.

Where was 'Circle of Days' published geographically?

'Circle of Days' was published in the United States.

What is the general description of 'Circle of Days' provided in the short description?

The general description of 'Circle of Days' is that it is a 2025 historical fiction novel by Ken Follett. This concise summary provides the core information about the book.

What is the name of the website where more information about 'Circle of Days' can be found?

More information about 'Circle of Days' can be found on Ken Follett's official website, ken-follett.com.

Circle Of Days Wiki: Echoes of the Megaliths: Ken Follett's Neolithic Saga

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The Novel

A Journey into Prehistory

Circle of Days is a historical fiction novel penned by the acclaimed Welsh author Ken Follett. Published in 2025 by Grand Central Publishing, this work transports readers to the Neolithic period, a pivotal era in human history, focusing on the monumental construction of Stonehenge.^[1] It stands as a testament to Follett's enduring ability to craft expansive narratives against significant historical backdrops.

Publication Overview

For Master's students analyzing literary works, understanding the publication context is crucial. Here are the key details for Circle of Days:

Attribute	Detail
Author	Ken Follett
Audio Read By	Richard Armitage
Language	English
Genre	Historical fiction
Publisher (US)	Grand Central Publishing
Publisher (UK)	Quercus
Publication Date	23 September 2025
Publication Place	United States (and United Kingdom)
Pages	752
ISBN	978-1538772775

The Stonehenge Context

The novel's setting in the Neolithic period, specifically during the creation of Stonehenge, offers a rich canvas for exploring themes of human ingenuity, societal organization, and spiritual belief. Stonehenge, an enduring enigma, provides a powerful focal point for Follett's narrative, allowing him to weave a fictional account around one of humanity's most impressive prehistoric achievements.

Background

Genesis of Inspiration

Ken Follett's connection to Stonehenge dates back to his childhood visits with family. Later, his wife, Barbara Follett, as Minister for Culture, Tourism and the Creative Industries (2008-2009), was involved in transforming the historical landmark into a public site.^[2] However, the direct impetus for Circle of Days came from archaeologist Mike Pitts' 2022 book, How to Build Stonehenge. Follett remarked, "I saw it and I thought, 'That sounds like a Ken Follett story; building Stonehenge,' So I looked into it, and the more I learned about this place, the more intrigued I became."^[3] This highlights the interplay between personal history, public engagement, and scholarly work in sparking creative endeavors.

Rigorous Research & Consultation

True to his meticulous approach to historical fiction, Follett undertook extensive research for Circle of Days. This involved driving around Salisbury, the region surrounding Stonehenge, to immerse himself in the landscape and envision the prehistoric environment. He engaged his imagination to reconstruct the daily lives, social structures, and motivations of the people who inhabited the area during the Neolithic era. The project benefited from the expertise of consultants, including the aforementioned archaeologist Mike Pitts and fellow archaeologist Phil Harding, ensuring a degree of historical plausibility within the fictional narrative.^[2]

Release

The Publishing Journey

The publication of Circle of Days was formally announced on May 13, 2024, when Ken Follett signed a publishing deal with Hachette Book Group for his forthcoming novel.^[4] Subsequently, on October 15, 2024, Hachette confirmed the anticipated release date of September 23, 2025. The novel was slated for publication in the United States under the Grand Central Publishing imprint and in the United Kingdom by Quercus, demonstrating a coordinated international release strategy for a major literary work.^[5]

Public Unveiling

A significant milestone in the book's pre-publication marketing was the exclusive cover reveal by People magazine on March 12, 2025.^[6] Such exclusive reveals are common strategies in the publishing industry to generate early buzz and anticipation among readers, leveraging popular media outlets to reach a broad audience ahead of the official release.

Plot

Prehistoric Society & Rituals

Set in 2500 BCE, Circle of Days immerses the reader in a prehistoric society structured around distinct tribal roles: miners, herders, woodlanders, and farmers. These communities convene seasonally at the wooden Monument, a central site for religious rites and festivities, presided over by priestesses. This societal framework establishes a complex interplay of interdependence and potential conflict, characteristic of early human settlements.^[1]

Central Characters & Narrative Arcs

The narrative unfolds through the experiences of several key protagonists, whose lives become intertwined amidst the challenges of their era:

Seft: A former flint miner, he seeks refuge from an abusive family by joining the herder community. His journey represents themes of escape, adaptation, and the search for belonging.
Neen: A herder, she forms a partnership with Seft, indicating the formation of new social bonds and alliances across traditional tribal lines.
Joia: Neen's younger sister, Joia discovers her calling as a priestess, embodying spiritual leadership and a vision for the future. Her determination to rebuild the Monument in stone after its destruction becomes a central driving force of the plot.

The narrative is further propelled by significant challenges, including a devastating drought that exacerbates inter-tribal tensions and resource scarcity. A major conflict arises from the aggressive actions of Troon, a misogynistic and violent farmer, who wages war against the herders. These elements collectively explore themes of survival, leadership, inter-group dynamics, and the enduring human ambition to create lasting structures, both social and physical.^[1]

Reception

Positive Acclaim

Early critical responses to Circle of Days largely lauded Ken Follett's characteristic storytelling prowess. Philip Zozzaro, writing for Library Journal, commended Follett's skill in "creating literary sagas populated by compelling characters," noting that this novel continues that tradition.^[7] Similarly, Bethany Latham of Booklist recognized the familiar Follettian structure of a large cast focused on advancement, assuring readers that they "will find the epic tale they seek" within its pages.^[8] These reviews highlight the novel's adherence to the author's established strengths, promising an engaging and expansive narrative.

Nuanced Perspectives

While generally positive, some reviews offered more critical insights. Holly Smith of the Washington Independent Review of Books, for instance, found the narrative "wildly oversimplified," pointing to the usual casting of overt heroes and villains and describing the dialogue as "clunky."^[9] Conversely, Kirkus Reviews, while acknowledging potential areas for critique, believed that fans would be pleased, characterizing the book as "a dramatic, complex imagining of the origins of Stonehenge."^[10] These varied perspectives underscore the subjective nature of literary criticism and the diverse expectations readers bring to a new work by a renowned author.

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Circle of Days Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not literary criticism or a substitute for reading the novel. The information provided on this website offers an academic overview of Ken Follett's "Circle of Days" but should not be considered a definitive literary analysis or a replacement for engaging with the primary text. Always refer to the original novel for its full narrative and thematic depth, and consult diverse scholarly sources for comprehensive critical perspectives. Never disregard the importance of direct engagement with a literary work because of information presented here.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Echoes of the Megaliths

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

The Novel 📖

🏛️ A Journey into Prehistory

📊 Publication Overview

🗿 The Stonehenge Context

Background 💡

🌱 Genesis of Inspiration

🔍 Rigorous Research & Consultation

Release 🗓️

✍️ The Publishing Journey

📰 Public Unveiling

Plot 📜

🌍 Prehistoric Society & Rituals

🎭 Central Characters & Narrative Arcs

Reception 🗣️

🌟 Positive Acclaim

⚖️ Nuanced Perspectives

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The Novel

A Journey into Prehistory

Publication Overview

The Stonehenge Context

Background

Genesis of Inspiration

Rigorous Research & Consultation

Release

The Publishing Journey

Public Unveiling

Plot

Prehistoric Society & Rituals

Central Characters & Narrative Arcs

Reception

Positive Acclaim

Nuanced Perspectives

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice