Books

London: Foyle [The Book Club], 1956-1966. [James Bond] COMPLETE BOOK CLUB EDITIONS. 11 volumes. Octavo (20 x 14 x 26cm). Publisher's hardbacks in illustrated dust-wrappers. The entire run of the popular British book club editions, which began in 1956 with 'Live and Let Die'. In total eleven of the fourteen James Bond titles were issued in this format and this set is complete as published. No inscriptions or ink names. Page edges are clean, with the earlier books slightly dusty but free from the heavy spotting often seen. Jackets are clean and fresh with some light wear to edges and extremities. Near fine to fine copies throughout. Becoming difficult to assemble in anything approaching fine condition. Ian Fleming's books were offered in this cheaper format, usually one year after the Cape first editions- some share the same Jonathan Cape artwork, but after the 'Thunderball' painting was damaged while on loan in America, Cape would no longer lend out their original art; as such the…

"Diamonds Are Forever" by Ian Fleming follows James Bond as he embarks on a mission to infiltrate a diamond smuggling operation. The novel begins with Bond assigned to track down and disrupt a pipeline of smuggled diamonds from Africa to America, which threatens to destabilize global diamond markets. Bond assumes the identity of a diamond smuggler named Peter Franks and follows the trail from London to New York. Along the way, he encounters a series of adversaries, including the menacing gangsters Jack and Seraffimo Spang, who control the criminal diamond network. Bond also crosses paths with Tiffany Case, a beautiful and complex woman involved in the smuggling operation. Their relationship evolves as Bond navigates a world of deception, facing danger and betrayal at every turn. As Bond delves deeper into the criminal underworld, he discovers the elaborate mechanisms behind the diamond smuggling operation, uncovering a web of corruption, double-crosses, and high-stakes gambling. His pursuit leads him from New York to Las Vegas and ultimately to the rugged landscape of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Throughout the novel, Fleming weaves a narrative that combines thrilling action sequences, espionage, and the allure of a luxurious yet treacherous world. Bond's trademark wit, resourcefulness, and courage are put to the test as he confronts adversaries and risks his life to dismantle the criminal syndicate. In the climax, Bond confronts the Spang brothers in a showdown in the Nevada desert, where he resolves to bring down the operation and prevent the diamonds from financing international crime. "Diamonds Are Forever" offers readers an exciting journey through the world of espionage and crime, showcasing Bond's ability to navigate treacherous situations and outwit his enemies while maintaining his suave demeanor and commitment to duty. The novel captures the essence of Fleming's iconic character and remains a thrilling installment in the James Bond series.