
In a bustling New York bookshop, a modest collector named Robert Hooker finally secures the legendary “Unpublishable Memoirs” of Beau Brummel—a scandalous chronicle that has survived in only two copies worldwide. Just as he is about to slip the priceless volume into his pocket, a wealthy patron, John Fenn, outbids him with a staggering offer, snatches the book, and leaves Hooker humiliated and empty‑handed.
Fuelled by a mix of anger and ambition, Hooker decides to turn his lifelong love of rare books, art, and antiquities into a daring game of wits. Armed with encyclopedic knowledge, linguistic flair, and a talent for impersonation, he plots to out‑maneuver the very elite who once trampled him. The promise of reclaiming treasure—and the sheer thrill of watching the powerful stumble—drives him toward a bold, unconventional scheme that could reshape his modest life forever.
Language
en
Duration
~2 hours (126K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Al Haines
Release date
2012-02-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Subjects

1876–1952
A brilliant rare-book dealer and collector, he helped turn American literary manuscripts and first editions into prized treasures. His eye for history, showmanship, and scholarship made him one of the best-known figures in the world of books.
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