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Solving Stonehenge: A new understanding of the origin and purpose of the famous monument
118 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 21, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
January 27, 2026
Quick Summary: A thought provoking consideration on Stonehenge
My Review: Solving Stonehenge: A New Understanding of the Origin and Purpose of the Famous Monument by Allan David Beach is a non-fiction book that provides a "completely new understanding of the origin and purpose of Stonehenge." It is scheduled for release on 1/28/26.
About the Book: "...50 years of archaeological discoveries and forensic science have been assembled into a fascinating story of Stone Age motivation and achievement."
In My Own Words: The science, math and history of Stonehenge from one man's unique point of view
What I Liked:
- I appreciated Beach's theory related to the structure. He was frank on his position.
- Based on Beach's expressed history, I can definitely understand his long-standing desire to uncover the mystery of Stonehenge. I liked seeing how his past and present merged, giving birth (in a sense) to his chosen profession. He definitely spoke in the language of his field of expertise.
- I found his inclusion of visuals to be helpful. I was intrigued enough by what was shown that I began to conduct my own research.
My Final Say: Solving Stonehenge was a bit different than I expected. While it was informative, it can best be summed up by using the author's own words, "This book is about the development of lunar/tidal knowledge by intelligent and perceptive people and their attempt to extend the safety of maritime exploration in the face of the dangerous spring tides and safer neap tides."
Other: This book may appeal to some. It slants heavily toward forensic science and math, but for those who are captivated by all things Stonehenge, it should be an intriguing boon.
Rating: 3/5
Recommend: Yes +/-
Audience: N
Status/Level: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Format: 📱
Cover: +
Thank you to the author, to the publisher (Troubador), and to NetGalley for granting access to a digital ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review. I appreciate the opportunity.
My Review: Solving Stonehenge: A New Understanding of the Origin and Purpose of the Famous Monument by Allan David Beach is a non-fiction book that provides a "completely new understanding of the origin and purpose of Stonehenge." It is scheduled for release on 1/28/26.
About the Book: "...50 years of archaeological discoveries and forensic science have been assembled into a fascinating story of Stone Age motivation and achievement."
In My Own Words: The science, math and history of Stonehenge from one man's unique point of view
What I Liked:
- I appreciated Beach's theory related to the structure. He was frank on his position.
- Based on Beach's expressed history, I can definitely understand his long-standing desire to uncover the mystery of Stonehenge. I liked seeing how his past and present merged, giving birth (in a sense) to his chosen profession. He definitely spoke in the language of his field of expertise.
- I found his inclusion of visuals to be helpful. I was intrigued enough by what was shown that I began to conduct my own research.
My Final Say: Solving Stonehenge was a bit different than I expected. While it was informative, it can best be summed up by using the author's own words, "This book is about the development of lunar/tidal knowledge by intelligent and perceptive people and their attempt to extend the safety of maritime exploration in the face of the dangerous spring tides and safer neap tides."
Other: This book may appeal to some. It slants heavily toward forensic science and math, but for those who are captivated by all things Stonehenge, it should be an intriguing boon.
Rating: 3/5
Recommend: Yes +/-
Audience: N
Status/Level: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Format: 📱
Cover: +
Thank you to the author, to the publisher (Troubador), and to NetGalley for granting access to a digital ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review. I appreciate the opportunity.
February 5, 2026
📖 Full academic review here: Solving Stonehenge: An Academic Review
Solving Stonehenge is a rigorous, data-driven contribution to one of archaeology’s most enduring debates. Rather than offering a popular introduction, Allan David Beach—drawing on a lifetime in physics—argues for the serious integration of mathematics, astronomy, and archaeological evidence in interpreting Stonehenge. His focus on lunar cycles, orbital mechanics, and features such as the 56 Aubrey Holes makes this a demanding but intellectually rewarding read.
Beach is at his strongest when addressing methodology and correcting alignment data in light of post-1970 radiocarbon dating. However, large sections devoted to his experiences with peer-review resistance may feel slow for readers less interested in academic politics. This is not a beginner’s book, but those with an interest in archaeoastronomy or interdisciplinary approaches will find much to engage with.
Recommended for specialist and academically curious readers.
Solving Stonehenge is a rigorous, data-driven contribution to one of archaeology’s most enduring debates. Rather than offering a popular introduction, Allan David Beach—drawing on a lifetime in physics—argues for the serious integration of mathematics, astronomy, and archaeological evidence in interpreting Stonehenge. His focus on lunar cycles, orbital mechanics, and features such as the 56 Aubrey Holes makes this a demanding but intellectually rewarding read.
Beach is at his strongest when addressing methodology and correcting alignment data in light of post-1970 radiocarbon dating. However, large sections devoted to his experiences with peer-review resistance may feel slow for readers less interested in academic politics. This is not a beginner’s book, but those with an interest in archaeoastronomy or interdisciplinary approaches will find much to engage with.
Recommended for specialist and academically curious readers.
February 10, 2026
This was an interesting and thought-provoking read. Allan David Beach presents a fresh theory on the origins and purpose of Stonehenge, and it’s clear a lot of research and care went into shaping his argument. I appreciated how clearly he explains his ideas and the way he pulls together archaeology, forensic science, and mathematics to support his conclusions.
That said, this isn’t a particularly light read. At times, the technical detail slowed the pacing for me, and I found myself needing to pause and really absorb what was being presented. Readers who enjoy digging into the mechanics behind ancient structures will likely get more out of this than those looking for a more narrative-driven history.
Overall, Solving Stonehenge offers a compelling alternative perspective on a monument that has been studied endlessly. While it didn’t fully click for me in every section, it did spark curiosity and gave me a lot to think about; which I always appreciate in nonfiction.
That said, this isn’t a particularly light read. At times, the technical detail slowed the pacing for me, and I found myself needing to pause and really absorb what was being presented. Readers who enjoy digging into the mechanics behind ancient structures will likely get more out of this than those looking for a more narrative-driven history.
Overall, Solving Stonehenge offers a compelling alternative perspective on a monument that has been studied endlessly. While it didn’t fully click for me in every section, it did spark curiosity and gave me a lot to think about; which I always appreciate in nonfiction.
March 7, 2026
I was so fascinated to read about Stonehenge, as I live about 10 minutes from the monument. The author is so knowledgable about the history and science behind the stones that it can’t help but create a sense of awe and wonderment
However this book is definitely aimed more at specialists on the topic and people who want to dig deep into the mathematics. For me, an average reader with a slight interest in the purpose and myths of Stonehenge, it got a bit bogged down with detail and numbers
The ideas and viewpoints are definitly thought provoking, and I love hearing someone with so many years of research behind them passionately discussing their topic of expertise, but I can’t say this was too enjoyable for me
However this book is definitely aimed more at specialists on the topic and people who want to dig deep into the mathematics. For me, an average reader with a slight interest in the purpose and myths of Stonehenge, it got a bit bogged down with detail and numbers
The ideas and viewpoints are definitly thought provoking, and I love hearing someone with so many years of research behind them passionately discussing their topic of expertise, but I can’t say this was too enjoyable for me
February 13, 2026
This was an interesting new theory and collection of data presented. That being said, it was often bogged down with what I felt was too much technical jargon. It felt like I was being swamped with minute details and terms and it made me want to put the book down at points just to try and make sure I knew exactly what was being said. Again, good information, just maybe could be presented a little simpler for a wider audience.
*I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
*I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews