Books

London: Jonathan Cape. 1957. [Spy Thriller] Reissue (First Edition thus, fourth printing overall), bibliographer's copy. Octavo (20 x 13cm), pp.218 [2]. Publisher's black cloth-effect paper over boards with red titles to spine and 'Heart' design to upper. With the pictorial green 'playing card' dust-jacket illustrated by Pat Marriott (uncredited on this impression), priced at 13s 6d. Contents and edges clean, ink date to free endpaper, jacket with a few small nicks, some abrasion to top of rear panel, closed triangular tear to front fold/flap. Very good. Jon Gilbert's file copy, with his pencilled notes, bookplate and ownership signature. His comprehensive guide to the works of Ian Fleming (2012) won the 16th Breslauer Prize for bibliography. An important edition, designated 'new edition' by the publisher; this is the first appearance of this striking and long-lived dust-wrapper design, which was in print until the 1980s. Gilbert A1a (4).

"Casino Royale," penned by Ian Fleming and published in 1953, introduces readers to James Bond, the iconic British spy known for his charm, wit, and penchant for danger. The story unfolds as Bond is assigned a mission to bankrupt Le Chiffre, a Soviet agent and treasurer for a criminal syndicate, at a high-stakes baccarat game in the Casino Royale in France. Bond navigates a treacherous world of espionage, encountering deceit, betrayal, and violence while trying to outwit Le Chiffre. Along the way, he crosses paths with Vesper Lynd, a complex and enigmatic woman whose involvement complicates his mission. As Bond confronts perilous situations and faces adversaries, he must rely on his cunning and resourcefulness to emerge victorious in this thrilling tale of espionage and intrigue.