Only Time Will Tell

by Jeffrey Archer
Only Time Will Tell cover
Good Books rating 3.0
Historical Fiction
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  • ID: 6743
  • Added: 2025-11-29
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9788184989090
  • Publisher: MEHTA PUBLISHING HOUSE
  • Published: 2015-11-12
  • Reviews: 3

ONLY TIME WILL TELL follows the extraordinary life of Harry Clifton, beginning in 1920 with the revelation that his father died in war, though the circumstances remain unclear. As Harry grows up, he uncovers a web of secrets that challenge his understanding of his family and identity, particularly whether he is the son of a working-class dockworker or a wealthy shipping magnate. The novel spans two decades, from the aftermath of World War I to the brink of World War II, and explores Harry's choices between pursuing higher education at Oxford or joining the fight against Hitler's Germany. The richly drawn characters and historical backdrop make this an unforgettable tale of adventure and intrigue. This captivating story takes readers on a journey filled with suspense and emotion, leaving them with lingering questions about Harry's true heritage and the path he will ultimately choose. The narrative's depth and complexity make it a compelling read that resonates long after the final page.

Reviews
Books and Bluess · 2019-11-24
engaging 3.50

The novel becomes more engaging towards the end with its twists and turns, making it an enjoyable read despite some predictable elements.

The reviewer from Books and Bluess finds 'Only Time Will Tell' to be an engaging read, especially towards the end. They appreciate the twists and turns that make the novel more captivating. While some elements are predictable, the reviewer still finds the book enjoyable. The reviewer highlights the increasing engagement as the story progresses, making it a worthwhile read.

Quick quotes

    The twists and turns increase towards the end of the novel and make the novel more engaging.

    Some things are known to us as readers but the ...

    The twists and turns increase towards the end of the novel and make the novel more engaging.

Sam Still Reading · 2012-04-11
compelling 4.50

The story of Harry Clifton and his entanglement with the Barrington family is praised for its fantastic action and plot, making it a compelling read.

The reviewer from Sam Still Reading highly praises 'Only Time Will Tell' for its fantastic action and plot. They find the story of Harry Clifton and his entanglement with the Barrington family to be compelling and well-crafted. The reviewer appreciates the engaging narrative and the intricate plot that keeps the reader hooked. Overall, the sentiment is positive, with the reviewer clearly enjoying the book.

Quick quotes

    The story of Harry Clifton and his entanglement with the Barrington family.

    Part One of a trilogy.

    Strengths: Fantastic action and plot.

The Guardian · 2011-10-18
terrible 1.00

The novel is described as truly terrible, with the reviewer finding Archer guilty of writing a subpar book. The writing style is criticized for being simplistic and old-fashioned.

The reviewer from The Guardian is quite critical of Jeffrey Archer's 'Only Time Will Tell'. They describe the novel as truly terrible and find Archer guilty of writing a subpar book. The writing style is criticized for being simplistic and old-fashioned, reminiscent of Tom Brown's School Days. The reviewer finds the plot predictable and not particularly engaging. Overall, the sentiment is quite negative, with the reviewer clearly not enjoying the book.

Quick quotes

    In the case of Archer himself, I find him guilty as charged: this is a truly terrible novel.

    This is a truly terrible novel.

    A bit Tom Brown s school-days, rather predictable and not ...

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