"Only Time Will Tell" is another great story from the master story teller, Jeffrey Archer. This is just volume 1 of what is termed as "The Clifton Chronicles". Another one of his books which you cant put down until the last page and keep you eagerly waiting for the sequel or volume 2.
Story revolves around the main character Harry Clifton from the age of 5 to the age of 21 with the events etched between 1920(end of WW1) and 1940s(onset of WW2) in the dockyards and streets of Bristol. All the characters are brilliantely etched and the author unfolds the events as seen from the shoes of each character namely Harry Clifton, Maise Clifton, Old Jack Tarrant, Giles and Emma Barrington. Almost the entire story takes place in Bristol wherein Harry is born in a poor family and is made to believe that his father died as a war hero. Harry’s mother Maisie Clifton is shown as a very strong character who boldly faces and wades through all obstacles in life to ensure Harry pursues his studies and lead a better life. This is one amongst the few characters that will remain etched in the reader’s memory for a long time.
Another character that will make an everlasting impact is the old Jack Tarrant who lives a secluded life trying to forget his gory experiences in WW1. But in fact he is a hero who saved 11 lives and won the Victorian Cross as honor. He is the most influential character in Harry’s life who motivates him to continue in school, concentrate on the studies and makes him believe in himself. To top it all he is one of the few characters apart from Uncle Stan and Hugo Barrington who knows how Harry’s father died. Surprise is whether the person who died was Harry’s real father or not is another twist that unfolds as the story paces ahead.
It takes around 21 years for Harry to find out the truth about his father and shockingly the truth comes out the very day of his marriage with Emma Barrington. Harry’s entire world come crashing down. Harry’s relationship with his best friends Giles Barrington and Deakins and their life at Bristol Grammar School are so beautifully etched. Author also takes us through Emma’s feelings towards Harry and the way they end up inseparable.
Climax feels a bit abrupt and the readers will end up asking questions like what happened to Maisie, where is Emma and whats happened to her life. I believe thats where the author successfully makes the reader eagerly await Volume 2.
This book is a must read for all Jeffrey Archer fans.