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Only Time Will Tell cover art

Only Time Will Tell

By: Jeffrey Archer
Narrated by: Roger Allam, Emilia Fox
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Publisher's Summary

Ambitious and addictive, Only Time Will Tell is the first novel in Jeffrey Archer’s The Clifton Chronicles, beginning the epic tale of Harry Clifton, a working-class boy from the docks of Bristol. Read by Emilia Fox, known for her role in Silent Witness, and Roger Allam.

It is 1920, and against the backdrop of a world ravaged by conflict, Harry’s story begins with the words ‘I was told that my father was killed in the war’. Harry’s existence is defined by the death of his father and he seems destined to a life on the docks until a remarkable gift wins him a scholarship to an exclusive boys school and entry into a world he could never have envisaged.

Over the course of twenty years, as the Second World War and the fight against Hitler draws nearer, Harry will learn the awful truth about his father’s death and of his own connections to a powerful shipping family, the Barringtons. And in doing so, he will change his destiny forever . . .

Richly imagined and populated with remarkable characters, The Clifton Chronicles will take you on a powerful journey, bringing to life one hundred years of family history in a story neither you, nor Harry, could ever have dreamt of.

Continue the bestselling series with The Sins of the Father and Best Kept Secret.

©2011 Jeffrey Archer (P)2011 Macmillan Publishers

What listeners say about Only Time Will Tell

Average Customer Ratings
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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Great book

I loved this book. the story was so griping. I first found it a few years ago as a free book. After losing my password I couldn't get on for a long time, but this book has always been on my mind and I'm so happy I'll be able to continue along with the story.

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  • Overall
    4 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars
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    4 out of 5 stars

Good Storyline

Good storyline but I didn't realise it was part 1....my fault probably but you need part 2 to see how story ends. Terribly British accents of the narrators takes a bit of getting used to as well.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Really enjoyed it

A great listen and well read too. Itching to get into Book 2 of the series.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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  • Kim
  • 30-08-2016

Really enjoyed the story

Loved it. So much in the book, like the characters. Looking forward to volume 2

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1 person found this helpful

  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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Really enjoyed this book.

I was pleasantly surprised with this title. Found I couldn't stop listening. The story and narration really brought the characters to life. I have now purchased more books in the series and look forward to hearing more of the ongoing saga.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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  • Liz
  • 30-10-2016

Most enjoyable

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes - easy listening and a great involved story.

What about Roger Allam and Emilia Fox ’s performance did you like?

Really fabulous narrating and loved the accent of Roger Allam in particular.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

brilliant

very interesting story. very well written of course and very well narrated. no foul language. keeps the reader wondering what will happen next. a few unexpected twists, especially at the end. I would strongly recommend it. thank you Michael Connelly

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
  • Performance
    4 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Want a great story that really hooks you?

If you could sum up Only Time Will Tell: Clifton Chronicles, Book 1 in three words, what would they be?

Thoroughly enjoyed this book, all the characters, the storyline, the narrator just a great read had me listening 100% - happily enjoying the story and all of a sudden it finishes at a gripping part - have to quickly download part 2!!

What did you like best about this story?

How you get to know the characters & start to have real empathy for them

Have you listened to any of Roger Allam and Emilia Fox ’s other performances? How does this one compare?

No I havent' but certainly excellent work

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Quite a few

Any additional comments?

Must read

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2 people found this helpful

  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Brilliant story. Hooked line and sinker.

The narrators are to be highly recommended. I look forward to the next Clayton Chronicles.

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

great read

i admit i only got this book because it was free, but it was an absolute "page turner" will be investing in the others in the series

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