Books

London: Jonathan Cape, 1953. [Spy thriller] FIRST EDITION, Second Impression. Octavo (20 x 13cm), pp.218; [2], blank. Publisher's black cloth-effect paper over boards, decorated with heart motif to upper, lettered in red to spine, lower edge untrimmed, housed in a leather-spined clamshell box. Provided with a later plain brown paper jacket with printed labels. Contents clean with no ink writing. Covers with acceptable wear, a few light marks, bump to crown and extremities, lettering a little rubbed/dulled. Very good. The novel which introduced the world to British secret agent James Bond 007. Armorial bookplate of Anthony Fanshawe Royle, Baron Fanshawe of Richmond, KCMG (1927-2001), former Guards Officer and SAS Commando, later MP for Richmond, a Foreign Office minister and Conservative Party Vice Chairman under Margaret Thatcher. Gilbert, Jon. Ian Fleming: The Bibliography A1a (2).

"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.