Set in the time when the second World War was about to begin, this novel explores the life of Harry Clifton, the protagonist. Only Time Will Tell: 1 (The Clifton Chronicles) is the introductory novel of The Clifton Chronicles series, which is a venture of the bestselling author Jeffrey Archer. The plot trails the path of Harry Clifton's underprivileged life, his background and his upbringing. Like many of Archer's previous books, this novel makes use of certain recurring themes such as power, money and financial hardships.

The conflict in this novel is brought about by the vague fatherhood of Harry and situations that question the very authenticity of his parenthood. People other than Harry seem to know more about his parents that he ever did. The explanation that his father is long dead seems unconvincing to a person who has to live life the hard way. The book reflects the mind of Harry as he questions himself whether he really is the son of Arthur, a dock worker, or the son of someone completely different.