👨👩👧👧 Series : The Clifton Chronicles
👨👩👧👧 Author : Jeffrey Archer
👨👩👧👧 Genre : Multi-Generational Saga
👨👩👧👧 Publication : Harper Collins
👨👩👧👧 Format : paperback
4.6🌟/5
Blogpost by Dhanu
Some of us may often wonder about the lives of the high-class people, the so-called aristocrats. They may seem to live lavish lifestyles, residing in grand buildings in posh areas. They give the impression of having everything sorted and well settled, and leading a problem-free life without giving any hint of emotions or feelings.
Well, you may see things other way once you get to know about their realistic lives and inner turmoil. The Clifton Chronicles, a compelling multi generational saga, serves as a threshold to prove our assumptions wrong. After all, they are also human beings whose polished version of life alone is visible to the public.
The series consists of seven books starting from the pre World War II era. The storyline travels throughout the twentieth century, portraying the life of working class and aristocrat families, the Cliftons and the Barringtons. The story of the first novel begins during the 1920s with the pile of their unfolded family secrets. Whereas, the seventh and last novel ends in the early 1990s tracks down the political intrigue of England and its persona, which are quite sensational of the time.
The series holds the three generational story of the protagonist, Harry Arthur Clifton, who is a successful author. It is narrated from multiple points of view to portray family disputes, love, loss, business treachery and major political events in twentieth century England. The major characters who make this series so compelling are Harry Arthur Clifton, Emma, Giles and Grace (the Barrington offsprings), Old Jack, Maisie Clifton, Hugo Barrington, Alex Fisher, Virginia Fenwick, Sebastian Arthur Clifton and Samantha. They give the remarkable presence throughout the series.
Each book has the numerous events that eventually bring the antagonists to play their wickedness in each plot progression. Archer knows his readers well. He does not include unnecessary stretches of scene or details that might bore them.
The writing style is one such absolute charm crafted by the author. He has used the narrative technique to present the generational story of Clifton throughout the series. It kept me engaged until the last book of the series. The language used in this series is uncomplicated and handled well enough for the beginners. It helps the reader to comprehend the changes over the period between 1920s and 1990s.
However, you may sometimes feel a drift in certain areas of the plotline, especially after the fourth book. But it is quite common in series with many books. So, take your time to come back to this absolute brilliance of Archer. I took three and half years to complete this series and had ample breaks after completing each book.
Hence, I would like to suggest this series to experience a unique glimpse into the multi-generational saga of two families navigating the challenges of their times.
Have you read ‘The Clifton Chronicles’? Share your favorite character in the comments below!
My favorite character from the series is Grace Barrington. Though her presence has been minimal compared to others, she has narrowed down her lifepath and travelled all along alone. She is witty person and has strong opinion on the matters, she gets herself involved.
Quote:
It may have been inconsiderate of me not to respond to those who had only kindness in their hearts, but sometimes an abundance of sympathy can be more overwhelming than solitude.
Only Time Will Tell
Affiliate Disclosure
All reviews and opinions are honest, independent, and not influenced by affiliate partnerships.
Discover more from Dhanu The Literarian
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
