Books

London: Jonathan Cape, 1953. [Spy thriller] FIRST EDITION, second Impression, Jacket B, export copy, also bibliographer's copy. Octavo (20 x 13cm), pp.218; [2]. Publisher's black cloth-effect paper over boards, decorated with heart motif to upper, lettered in red to spine, pictorial dust-wrapper priced at 10/6. This copy was originally sold in Johannesburg, SA (bookseller ticket to pastedown). No inscriptions, some spotting/toning (likely from climate), jacket with some nicks and tears, chipped at crown. Very good. Bibliographer Jon Gilbert's file copy (printed bookplate and pencil notes within). His encyclopaedic guide to the works of Ian Fleming (2012) won the 16th Breslauer Prize for bibliography. This printing is twice as scarce as the first. Gilbert A1a (2.2).

"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.