This Was A Man - The Clifton Chronicles #7

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Title: This Was A Man
Author: Jeffrey Archer
Genre: Fiction, Drama
Pages: 400
Publisher: Pan Macmillan UK
ISBN-13:  978-1447252252

Rating: 4.4/5

The intense Clifton chronicle continues and ends(sadly) with the last book of the series, This Was a Man. The book takes the saga forward with heart touching moments scattered across the pages of this epic series, one like no other.

Emma rises high in her carer as she is appointed the Minister of Health by Margaret Thatcher's government. But this is not the end of the line for her. Meanwhile, Harry decides to begin his final William Warwick novel which he wants to accomplish as per his late mother's wishes. Giles finds out about Karin's secret and on the other hand, Lady Virginia refuses to get out of their lives. Little Freddie is a young boy now who idolizes Giles, primarily for his flair in cricket. Seb is busy tackling Desmond Mellor and Jim Knowles as they resurface again. Jessica wins her place at the prestigious Slade School of Fine Arts but unfortunately falls into bad company and risks her career being compromised. The story reveals certain secrets of the past and slows down towards the end, where Emma and Harry become great grandparents and are now at the dusk of their lives.

The book focuses on the careers and happenings of the Cliftons and Barringtons, of course, but it is noticeable that the author has slowed the pace down, understandably so. There aren't many twists and turns as the previous installments or shocking revelations as such. But that actually fell in perfectly with the story line, meaning the thrilling moments weren't missed. There is enough happening, leaving no scope for boredom. There are more addition of characters to the Clifton and Barrington families and it is more about the relationships between them this time. 

It goes without saying that the writing and narration are truly powerful. Being the last book of the series, the author clearly wished for a smooth ending and that is exactly what we have here. A quiet but fulfilling finale. Towards the end are some touching moments as the author pulls the curtain down on his grand creation with the retreating of characters. 

A fitting end to an extraordinary series from the master storyteller. Delighted to have traveled with the Cliftons and Barringtons on such an exciting journey.

I highly recommend the entire series for any book lover. Trust me, it is worth it.