Title: Be Careful What You Wish For
Author: Jeffrey Archer
First published March 11, 2014
387 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9781250034489 (ISBN10: 1250034485)
Rating: 4.11
Overview
In Jeffrey Archer’s captivating novel, Be Careful What You Wish For, the Clifton and Barrington families face new challenges that threaten to tear them apart. Emma Clifton is determined to take over as chairman of the Barrington Shipping Company, but her plans are threatened by the scheming Major Alex Fisher, who is determined to ruin the company’s reputation.
Meanwhile, Harry and Emma’s daughter falls in love with a fellow student, but their happiness is threatened by the meddling of Jessica’s future mother-in-law and her conniving friend, Lady Virginia Fenwick. As the families navigate these treacherous waters, they soon realize that their actions have unforeseen consequences that could destroy everything they hold dear.
About the Author
Jeffrey Howard Archer, also known as Baron Archer of Weston-super-Mare, is a multi-talented English author and former politician. He has had an impressive career as a Member of Parliament and deputy chairman of the Conservative Party, and was even bestowed with a life peerage in 1992.
However, his political journey was marred by multiple controversies that eventually led to his conviction for perverting the course of justice, resulting in imprisonment. Despite this setback, he found success in other fields such as writing, where he dabbles in various forms such as novels, plays, and short stories.
On a personal note, he is happily married to Mary Archer, a distinguished scientist who specializes in solar power.
Editoral Review
Be Careful What You Wish For is the fourth book in The Clifton Chronicles series, written by bestselling author Jeffrey Archer. This novel was first published on March 11, 2014, and it falls into the genre of historical fiction, with a touch of mystery and family drama.
Like other books in the series, it centers on the Clifton and Barrington families, and their intermingling lives, secrets, and dramas. The novel opens in Bristol, England in 1957 with the sudden death of a wealthy businessman, leaving his company and fortune behind.
With suspicion arising as to whether the death was natural or due to foul play, a series of plot twists begins that takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the world of politics, business, and personal relationships. The main characters in the novel are Harry Clifton, a successful writer; his wife Emma, who has her own aspirations in life; Lady Virginia Fenwick, a scheming socialite who goes to great lengths to maintain her lifestyle; and Giles Barrington, Emma’s brother who holds an important political position.
These characters and their relationships become more complicated as they are tested by scandal, greed, and power. The novel is set in the mid-twentieth century, a time of great political and social upheaval in the UK.
The author weaves historical events and cultural norms of the era into the story, conveying a sense of realism that serves as a backdrop for the characters’ lives. One of the prominent themes of the book is the consequences of ambition, which is explored through the choices and actions of the main characters.
Archer’s writing style is engaging and entertaining, with fast-paced and suspenseful scenes that keep readers turning the pages. The quality of the writing in Be Careful What You Wish For is undeniably high.
Archer’s characters are well-developed, and the pacing of the plot is expertly crafted. The story’s multiple perspectives and intricate plot structure make it intriguing and thought-provoking.
The author’s ability to entwine historical events with fiction is seamless and creates an immersive reading experience. However, the book has some limitations, particularly with regards to its predictability.
Archer follows a familiar pattern of storytelling that can be easily anticipated at times. The novel’s complex plot structure may also make it difficult for readers unfamiliar with the series to keep up.
Overall, Be Careful What You Wish For is a superb work of historical fiction that explores the intricacies of ambition, power, and love in a compelling way. The novel’s strengths far outweigh its limitations, making it a must-read for fans of the genre or the series.
Therefore, we recommend this book to anyone looking for a thrilling and well-written historical fiction that delves into the complexities of human relationships. Based on its quality, entertainment value, and relevance, we would give it a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
