"Only Time Will Tell" is the first installment in Jeffrey Archer's Clifton Chronicles series. The story is set in England and revolves around the complexities of family dynamics and social class, focusing on the life of Harry Clifton. As the protagonist, Harry grows up in a poor neighborhood and discovers his remarkable talent for singing. The narrative explores his journey, as well as the significant impact his family's past has on his future.
The novel delves into the lives of the Clifton family and their connections to the affluent Barrington family. Tensions arise from secrets, misunderstandings, and the influence of social status during early 20th-century Britain. Various characters contribute to an intricate web of relationships that shape Harry's identity and aspirations.