Full Circle - Book Review

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Danielle Steel’s novel Full Circle, first published in 1984, is a deeply emotional tale of self-discovery, resilience and the transformative power of love and forgiveness. The novel spans decades, exploring the life of Tana Roberts, a young woman who grows up during the turbulent 1960s and grapples with personal and societal challenges as she matures. Through Tana’s journey, Steel addresses themes of ambition, personal trauma, family relationships and the ever-evolving roles of women in society.

The story begins with Tana Roberts as a teenager in the 1960s, living with her glamorous but emotionally distant mother, Jean. Tana’s father is largely absent, leaving her yearning for connection and stability. Despite her privileged upbringing, Tana is a victim of sexual assault, a harrowing experience that deeply affects her relationships and self-perception.

As Tana grows older, she emerges as a determined and intelligent woman who channels her pain into her studies and career. She attends law school, defying societal expectations for women of her time and becomes a lawyer with a passion for advocating for women’s rights. Along the way, Tana navigates complex relationships, including a tumultuous romance with a charismatic but unreliable man, Harry.

The novel traces Tana’s journey over several decades as she experiences heartbreak, triumph and ultimately a sense of closure. The title Full Circle, reflects her journey from a vulnerable young girl to a self-assured woman who confronts her past and finds inner peace.

Set against the backdrop of the feminist movement, Full Circle explores the shifting roles and expectations of women in society. Tana’s decision to pursue a career in law is revolutionary for her time, highlighting the barriers women faced in male-dominated professions.

Through Tana’s journey, Steel addresses the tension between traditional gender roles and the aspirations of modern women. Tana’s mother, Jean, represents the older generation’s values – emphasising beauty, charm and dependence on men. In contrast, Tana embodies the feminist ideals of independence and self-reliance. This generational divide adds depth to the story, showing how societal norms evolve and the impact these changes have on personal relationships.



Tana’s experience with sexual assault is a pivotal moment in the novel, shaping her relationships and self-worth. Steel portrays the lasting effects of trauma with sensitivity, showing how it influences Tana’s choices and her reluctance to fully trust others.

Despite this, Tana resilience shines through. She channels her pain into her work, using her legal career to advocate for other women. Steel’s portrayal of Tana as a survivor, rather than a victim, is empowering and underscores the importance of finding strength in adversity.

Romantic relationships are a central theme in Full Circle particularly the complicated dynamic between Tana and Harry. Their relationship is marked by passion, betrayal and unfulfilled potential. Harry represents the allure of love but also its pitfalls – his inability to commit and his self-destructive tendencies mirror Tana’s struggle to reconcile her longing for connection with her need for stability.

Through this relationship, Steel explores the idea that love is not always enough to overcome personal shortcomings or incompatible values. Tana’s eventual realisation that she cannot save Harry is a turning point in her personal growth.

The novel also delves into the complexities of family relationships, particularly the strained bond between Tana and her mother. Jean’s superficiality and lack of emotional warmth leave Tana feeling isolated, but as the story progresses, Tana gains deeper understanding of her mother’s choices and vulnerabilities. This evolution mirrors Tana’s own journey toward self-acceptance and forgiveness.
Tana Roberts: Tana is the heart of the story – a character whose resilience and ambition make her relatable and inspiring. Steel portrays her as a multidimensional figure, combining vulnerability with strength. Tana’s journey from a traumatised teenager to a confident lawyer reflects her determination to overcome societal and personal obstacles.

Her flaws, particularly her tendency to seek validation in unhealthy relationships, make her relatable and human. Steel’s nuanced portrayal of Tana’s internal struggles adds emotional depth to the novel and makes her growth feel authentic.

Jean Roberts: Jean, Tana’s mother, is a complex character who initially appears shallow and self-centred. However, as the story unfolds, Steel reveals the insecurities and societal pressures that shaped Jean’s choices. Her relationship with Tana is fraught with misunderstandings, but by the end of the novel, there is a sense of reconciliation and mutual respect.

Harry: Harry is Tana’s primary love interest and one of the most intriguing characters in the book. Charismatic and passionate, he represents both the excitement and heartbreak of love. His inability to overcome his personal demons ultimately makes him an unsuitable partner for Tana. Harry’s arc serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of sacrificing one’s own well-being for a relationship.

Danielle Steel’s writing in Full Circle is characterised by her signature blend of emotional depth and accessibility. The third-person omniscient narration allows readers to gain insight into Tana’s thoughts and feelings, as well as the motivations of other key characters.

Steel’s prose is straightforward yet evocative, capturing the emotional nuances of Tana’s journey. Her use of detailed descriptions, particularly in scenes of personal trauma or romantic tension, immerses readers in the story. The pacing is deliberate, with each chapter contributing to Tana’s character development and broader themes of the novel.

The structure of the novel, spanning several decades, allows Steel to explore the long-term consequences of Tana’s choices and the societal changes that occur during her lifetime. This broader timeline gives the story a sense of scope and highlights the idea of life coming “full circle”.

Tana’s struggles with love, career and family resonate with readers, making her an engaging and sympathetic character. Steel’s exploration of the feminist movement and changing gender roles adds depth to the narrative and situates it within historical context. The novel’s portrayal of trauma, resilience and personal growth is both sensitive and empowering.

While the emotional journey is compelling, some aspects of the plot – such as Tana’s eventual success and self-acceptance – are predictable. Although characters like Jean and Harry are well-developed, others, such as Tana’s friends and colleagues, could have been given more depth to enhance the narrative.

Full Circle by Danielle Steel is a powerful and emotionally resonant novel that explores the complexities of personal growth, love and societal expectations. Through the character of Tana Roberts, Steel addresses universal themes of trauma, resilience and the pursuit of fulfilment.

The novel’s strength lies in its relatable protagonist and its ability to capture the nuances of human relationships. While some elements of the plot are predictable, the emotional depth and societal commentary make Full Circle a memorable and thought-provoking read. For fans of Danielle Steel and readers who enjoy stories of personal transformation, Full Circle is a timeless and inspiring tale.

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