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Exploring the Best Jeffrey Archer Books: A Goodreads Reader Ranking
Jeffrey Archer, a name synonymous with captivating storytelling, has built a remarkable career penning bestselling novels admired globally. From political landscapes to intricate revenge plots and compelling family dramas, his books resonate with a broad audience. With over 275 million copies sold, deciding where to start can be daunting. This article delves into the top 10 most-read Jeffrey Archer books, according to Goodreads reviews, providing insight into his most beloved works. Discover the most popular novels by this acclaimed author and see which titles stand out among readers.
10. Cometh the Hour (The Clifton Chronicles #6)
35,376 ratings
As the sixth book in The Clifton Chronicles, Cometh the Hour intensifies the trials of the Clifton family. Set in the 1970s, the narrative delves into the ethical quandaries of Giles Barrington’s political decisions, Harry Clifton’s crusade to liberate a Soviet author, and a looming threat to Emma Clifton’s endeavors within the National Health Service (NHS). The book marks a pivotal juncture, resolving several plotlines that have unfolded over the preceding years.
9. The Prodigal Daughter (Kane & Abel #2)
40,868 ratings
Following the triumph of Kane & Abel, Archer continued the saga with The Prodigal Daughter. This novel revisits the life of Florentyna Rosnovski, Abel’s daughter from the original story, as she rises in politics and business. This narrative explores ambition, gender dynamics, and power, showing Archer’s engagement with American political life. It is celebrated for its extension of the original plotline.
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8. A Prisoner of Birth
40,717 ratings
A Prisoner of Birth stands out as one of Archer’s finest standalone thrillers. This modern version of The Count of Monte Cristo follows Danny Cartwright, a man wrongly convicted of murder and imprisoned. Inside prison, he plans an escape and seeks vengeance against the group that framed him.
The book combines courtroom drama, identity changes, and well-placed revelations, making it a favorite among fans and one of Archer’s most-praised standalone novels.
7. Be Careful What You Wish For (The Clifton Chronicles #4)
41,377 ratings
By the fourth novel in the series, the Clifton and Barrington families are well-developed in Archer’s saga. In Be Careful What You Wish For, the story concentrates on family affairs, corporate treachery, and repercussions of choices made.
Here, The Barrington Shipping Company nears collapse due to a takeover attempt. In Succession-like fashion, the storyline contains political and family conflict. Clifton fans embrace this novel for its organized plot and surprises.
6. Not a Penny More, Not a Penny Less
44,346 ratings
Not a Penny More, Not a Penny Less, Archer’s debut novel, tells a story of deceit motivated by real-life monetary issues. After a ruthless millionaire scams four men, they decide to reclaim their money to the exact penny.
It is a heist story with an academic, an art dealer, and a French aristocrat uniting as partners. The novel displays Archer’s talent for plots filled with justice and irony.
5. Nothing Ventured (William Warwick #1)
48,643 ratings
In 2019, Archer released the novel, Nothing Ventured, following the career of William Warwick, a character created by Harry Clifton in The Clifton Chronicles. This twist was praised by fans, who enjoyed Warwick’s career growth in the Metropolitan Police.
This storyline investigates art theft, family secrets, and high-society scandals. Readers celebrated the opening of this saga.
4. Best Kept Secret (The Clifton Chronicles #3)
50,254 ratings
Best Kept Secret, which is set between 1945 and 1957, explores Britain as the Clifton family adjusts to the post-war world. Harry Clifton thrives as a novelist and Emma heads the Barrington enterprise as the pair face new enemies, family conflicts, and moral problems.
The historical setting and Hugo Barrington’s legacy were praised by readers. As the series unfolds, the twists and stakes increase.
3. The Sins of the Father (The Clifton Chronicles #2)
65,429 ratings
Archer moves the plot to courtroom drama and family secrets in this compelling second volume. Harry’s true paternity is questioned, and he fights in court for approval.
The Sins of the Father, with its mistaken identity, legal mystery, and forbidden relationships, sets the foundation for the family drama to come later in the series.
2. Only Time Will Tell (The Clifton Chronicles #1)
93,311 ratings
With Only Time Will Tell, Archer’s series began in 2011. This story follows Harry Clifton as he journeys from Bristol in the 1920s to World War II. It set the premise for a seven-part saga with class divides, love affairs, and dark secrets.
The book captures the reality of historical events with its cliffhangers and characters. Fans view this as the best place to start with Archer’s work.
1. Kane & Abel (Kane & Abel #1)
127,520 ratings
At the top of the list is Kane & Abel, Archer’s most popular work and the book that cemented his fame in literature. This follows William Lowell Kane, the son of a Boston banker, and Abel Rosnovski, a Polish immigrant. Their paths cross and clash as their rivalry unfolds over decades.
Fans note its intricate planning and pleasing conclusion as highlights. In 1985, CBS adapted the book into a miniseries.