Jeffrey Archer is a prolific writer whose books have entertained and captivated readers for decades. His works range from tales of political intrigue to powerful family sagas, and everything in between. Whether you’re a fan who’s read all of Archer’s books or a newcomer to his writing, this guide will help you discover the best Jeffrey Archer books to read now.

The Early Works of Jeffrey Archer
Jeffrey Archer is one of the most renowned authors of our time. His books have sold millions of copies worldwide and have been translated into many languages. Archer’s writing career spans several decades, and his early works are a great place to start for readers who want to experience his development as a writer.
Archer’s early works are known for their engaging characters, gripping plots, and vivid descriptions. They are a testament to his storytelling abilities and his mastery of the craft of writing. Three standout early works that showcase Archer’s talent include:
Not a Penny More, Not a Penny Less
This novel tells the story of a group of strangers who are cheated out of their money by a con artist. Determined to get their revenge, they band together to take back what’s rightfully theirs. With tension, humor, and great characters, this is a must-read for fans of Archer’s early works.
Archer’s skill in creating dynamic characters is on full display in this novel. Each character is distinct and fully realized, with their own motivations and quirks. The plot is fast-paced and full of twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the very end.
Shall We Tell the President?
This political thriller imagines what might happen if a woman were elected President of the United States. When her plans to reshape the country’s economy draw the ire of powerful factions, she becomes the target of an assassination attempt, forcing her to use all her political savvy to survive. This book is a thrilling race against time that will keep you turning pages late into the night.
Archer’s ability to create tension and suspense is evident in this novel. The stakes are high, and the reader is kept on the edge of their seat as they follow the President’s struggle to stay alive. The political intrigue and behind-the-scenes maneuvering add depth to the story and make it a standout in the genre.
Kane and Abel
This sweeping family saga tells the story of two men, born on opposite sides of the world, whose lives become intertwined through war, business, and mutual enmity. With unforgettable characters and grandeur scope, this is a classic novel that has cemented Archer’s place in the literary canon.
Archer’s ability to create memorable characters is on full display in this novel. The two main characters, Kane and Abel, are complex and fully realized, with their own strengths and weaknesses. The story spans several decades and covers a wide range of historical events, making it a fascinating exploration of the 20th century.
Overall, Archer’s early works are a testament to his talent as a writer. They showcase his ability to create engaging characters, gripping plots, and vivid descriptions. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to Archer’s work, these books are a great place to start.
The Clifton Chronicles Series
Archer’s Clifton Chronicles series is a masterpiece of modern storytelling, spanning multiple decades and generations of a powerful family. This series is a must-read for anyone who loves epic family sagas and political intrigue. The six books in the series include:
Only Time Will Tell
The first book in the series introduces readers to Harry Clifton, a young man from a working-class family who dreams of making something of himself. Harry is a character whose determination and sense of morality will capture your heart from the first page.
As you follow Harry’s journey, you’ll be transported to the streets of Bristol, England in the early 1900s. You’ll experience the struggles of working-class families and the challenges that come with trying to break free from the social and economic constraints of the time.
But it’s not just the setting that makes this book so compelling. Archer weaves a complex web of family secrets, political intrigue, and personal drama that will keep you turning the pages long into the night.
The Sins of the Father
The second book in the series picks up where the first left off, following Harry’s rise to prominence and his family’s journey through a tumultuous time in history. This book is full of twists and turns that will keep even the most seasoned readers on the edge of their seats.
Set against the backdrop of World War II, The Sins of the Father explores themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and the cost of ambition. As Harry’s family becomes more deeply entangled in the political and social upheaval of the time, they must confront the consequences of their actions and the secrets they’ve been keeping.
Archer’s vivid descriptions of wartime England and the personal struggles of his characters make this book a true standout in the series.
Best Kept Secret
This third installment of the Clifton Chronicles takes readers on a journey through the 1970s and 1980s, exploring the family’s relationships and struggles against the backdrop of some of the most significant events in modern history. With memorable characters and complex plotlines, this book will leave you hungry for more.
As the Cliftons navigate the changing political and social landscape of the era, they must also confront their own personal demons. Secrets are revealed, relationships are tested, and the family’s future hangs in the balance.
Archer’s attention to detail and his ability to weave together multiple storylines make this book a true masterpiece of the genre.
Be Careful What You Wish For
This fourth book in the series takes the Clifton family into the world of high finance and political intrigue, weaving together a complex web of family drama, business dealings, and political corruption. If you’re a fan of Archer’s political thrillers, this book is a must-read.
As Harry becomes more deeply involved in the world of finance, he must navigate a dangerous landscape of backroom deals and cutthroat competition. Meanwhile, his family is facing its own set of challenges as they struggle to maintain their position in society and protect their legacy.
With its intricate plot and well-drawn characters, Be Careful What You Wish For is a gripping read from start to finish.
Mightier Than the Sword
The fifth book in the series continues the Clifton family’s journey, delving deeper into the politics and power plays of the era. With memorable characters and a sprawling plot that will keep you guessing until the end, this book is a real page-turner.
As the Cliftons confront new challenges and old enemies, they must also come to terms with the legacy of their past. Archer’s skillful storytelling and attention to detail make this book a standout in the series.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Clifton Chronicles or a newcomer to the series, Mightier Than the Sword is a must-read.
Cometh the Hour
The sixth and final book in the series brings the Clifton Chronicles to a dramatic close, tying up loose ends and bringing the powerful family saga to a satisfying conclusion. If you’re a fan of Archer’s storytelling, this book is a must-read finale to an epic series.
As the Cliftons face their greatest challenges yet, they must also confront the choices they’ve made and the consequences of their actions. Archer’s ability to weave together multiple storylines and bring his characters to life is on full display in this book, making it a fitting end to an unforgettable series.
Whether you’re looking for an epic family saga or a gripping political thriller, the Clifton Chronicles has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on one of the most compelling and memorable series of the past decade.
The Prison Diaries Trilogy
The Prison Diaries Trilogy by Jeffrey Archer is a must-read for anyone who wants to get a glimpse of what life is like behind bars. The books are a unique and gripping portrait of the author’s experiences during his time in prison.
Jeffrey Archer is a master storyteller, and his writing in these books is raw, honest, and captivating. His experiences in prison are chronicled in a way that is both shocking and enlightening, and readers are sure to be moved by his journey.
A Prison Diary: Hell
The first book in the trilogy, A Prison Diary: Hell, is a powerful and eye-opening account of Archer’s time in a notoriously brutal prison in the UK. The book takes readers on a journey through the harsh realities of prison life, from violence and brutality to boredom and monotony. Archer’s writing is vivid and visceral, and readers will feel as if they are right there with him in the cell.
But A Prison Diary: Hell is not just a book about the horrors of prison life. It is also a book about the human spirit and the power of resilience. Archer’s determination to survive and overcome the challenges he faces is truly inspiring, and readers will be left with a new appreciation for the strength of the human spirit.
A Prison Diary: Purgatory
The second book in the trilogy, A Prison Diary: Purgatory, picks up where the first book left off. In this book, Archer continues his journey through the prison system, confronting new challenges and learning more about himself and his fellow inmates.
One of the most striking things about A Prison Diary: Purgatory is the way that Archer is able to find meaning and purpose in his time behind bars. Despite the difficulties he faces, he is able to use his experiences to grow and learn, and his writing is a testament to the power of self-reflection and personal growth.
A Prison Diary: Heaven
The final book in the trilogy, A Prison Diary: Heaven, brings Archer’s journey full circle. In this book, readers get a glimpse of Archer’s final days in prison and his eventual release.
But A Prison Diary: Heaven is not just a book about freedom. It is also a book about redemption and the power of second chances. Archer’s writing is optimistic and uplifting, and readers will be left with a sense of hope and possibility.
Overall, The Prison Diaries Trilogy is a powerful and important work of literature. It is a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, and the power of writing to connect us with ourselves and others. If you haven’t read these books yet, then you’re missing out on one of the most compelling and thought-provoking works of non-fiction in recent memory. So what are you waiting for? Start reading today!
FAQs
What did Jeffery Archer get convicted for?
Despite having a successful career as an MP, Archer left his career in politics in 1974 after being involved in a financial scandal. Later, a newspaper accused him of hiring a sex worker and Archer filed a court case against them and subsequently won. However, years later, he was imprisoned for perjury and perverting the course of justice during the original trial.
When did Jeffery Archer release his first novel?
To avoid bankruptcy, Archer wrote his first novel, titled Not a Penny More, Not a Penny Less, in 1974.
How many novels has Jeffery Archer written?
Jeffery Archer has written over forty novels.
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