London
THE ADMIRALTY IN LONDON was a primary destination for Royal Navy officers during Richard Bolitho’s lifetime, after returning from sea or prior to assuming a new commission. Still others would haunt the imposing structure in search of employment, hoping for a ship. Richard and later his nephew Adam spend considerable time there over the course of their careers in the Alexander Kent novels.
London itself is a recurring character in the novels, including the wine shop in St James, where Richard arranges for wine stores in advance of departing on voyages that often last for long periods of time. Uniforms and other personal items are purchased, as the Bolithos move about the city on foot or by carriage.
It is London where much of Richard’s personal life away from Falmouth plays out in drawing rooms and inns.