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The Obscure London Library Where Famous Writers Go for Books

Tucked into a corner of St. James’ Square, the exterior doesn’t so much scream library as it murmurs anonymous guest house, a remnant of the building’s former life as a private residence. But like Dr. Who’s famous TARDIS spaceship, the library is seemingly bigger on the inside. One million books on 17 miles of shelves are spread out across a cluster of four different buildings, creating a labyrinthine maze that director Philip Marshall says draws Harry Potter comparisons from nearly every visitor—myself included. Read more

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Former London Home of English Novelist Thomas Hardy Lists for £995,000

On the main floor of the triplex unit there is a reception room with oversized windows, high ceilings, built-in shelving and a dining area, as well as an eat-in kitchen and a full bathroom with a soaking tub, the listing said. Upstairs, there are two bedrooms, a bathroom and a private roof terrace. A third bedroom is on the top floor. Currently featuring an office nook, the room has also been used as a study, according to the listing. There’s also a spacious private garden behind a wooden fence and with a dining area lined with trellises. Read more

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Historic London Home Once Occupied by Novelist Joseph Conrad Lists for £1.7 Million

A historic London home once occupied by the Polish-British writer Joseph Conrad—whose novella  “Heart of Darkness” inspired the 1979 epic film “Apocalypse Now”—is on the market for £1.7 million (US$2.3 million). Located in the city’s upscale Pimlico neighborhood, and a short walk from Victoria Station, the property spans 1,206 square feet over four stories, with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. Read more

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The home of Frankenstein author Mary Shelley is on sale for £1million

Michael Keating, Director of Dexters Bloomsbury says of the property: This bright first floor flat offers buyers the opportunity to purchase a piece of history in one of London’s most historic neighbourhoods. Close to Russell Square tube station and King’s Cross, Marchmont Street has a wide array of pubs, cafes and second-hand bookstores. Read more

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Who They Was by Gabriel Krauze

To the growing genre of drug-riddled fiction—Irvine Welsh, Denis Johnson, Joel Mowdy, Nico Walker—Krauze adds a flourish, a kind of harsh music, with his use of gang argot … A gritty read for its gore, drugs, and profanity, but possessed of a raw and honest eloquence. Read more

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