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Jeffrey Archer

Jeffrey Howard Archer, is a British author and former politician. He is known for his crime, mystery, and thriller novels, including the popular Clifton Chronicles series, Kane and Abel and A Prisoner of Birth. His books have sold around 330 million copies worldwide.


Quick Facts

  • Has written over 30 novels.
  • Served a prison sentence for perjury and perverting the course of justice.
  • His books have sold over 275 million copies worldwide.
  • Created a popular saga, the Clifton Chronicles.
  • Was appointed a life peer by Queen Elizabeth II in 1992.
  • His works have been translated into more than 60 languages.

Background

Archer was born in 1940 in London, England. Having attended Oxford University, he later worked as a fundraiser for a number of charities, before embarking on a political career which saw him become a Member of Parliament at the age of 29, and later a peer of the realm. In 1974, financial troubles caused him to start writing, leading to the publication of his first novel, Not a Penny More, Not a Penny Less, in 1976. Since then, he's primarily known as a author, having written several best-selling novels including Kane and Abel, The Prodigal Daughter, and First Among Equals. His writing style is characterized by compelling character studies and intricate, suspenseful plots. He has also been involved in screenwriting and playwriting, adding to his diverse literary portfolio.

Writing Style and Impact

Archer's writing is known for its complex and engrossing plots, which often feature twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. His characters are realistic and well-developed, and his work often explores themes of ambition, betrayal, and redemption. His books are noted for their fast pace and their ability to grip the reader from the first page. His work has sold millions of copies worldwide, cementing his reputation as one of the foremost writers of thriller novels.

Notable Works

  • Kane and Abel (1979)
  • The Prodigal Daughter (1982)
  • First Among Equals (1984)
  • A Matter of Honour (1986)
  • The Fourth Estate (1996)
  • The Clifton Chronicles series (2011-2017)