Books

Proof copy of the fifth James Bond novel. This copy is from the library of Fleming bibliographer Jon Gilbert, with his bookplate loosely inserted. Gilbert records a print run of 75 copies and states "a tiny number appear to have survived". Gilbert's description notes that there was a change in text on page 94. Apparently "two early trade readers... had raised issues over the lesbian scene which was subsequently toned down a little". The earlier text commences "In all respects. She is very beautiful. Naïve but obedient". This was replaced with "The woman said grudgingly, 'She is very beautiful. She will serve our purpose...'" Additionally, there are two states of the wrappers. Gilbert notes that "the 'Uncorrected Proof' text may be stamped to the front cover, although the copy viewed did not feature this wording". He also states there are 235 pages (a misprint for 253 pages). Gilbert's later unpublished research notes that there is a state comprising 249 pages. The present copy has 253 pages. Octavo. Original green wrappers with publisher's device repeated in white, spine and wrappers lettered in black. Housed in a custom black morocco-backed folding box. Ownership signature of Jon Gilbert to inside front wrapper. Slight lean to spine, minor toning to wrappers, repair to front joint, a few spots of foxing to edges: a very good copy. Gilbert A5a.

"From Russia, with Love" by Ian Fleming is a spy thriller featuring James Bond, the iconic British Secret Service agent. In this novel, Bond is assigned a perilous mission by MI6 to acquire a Soviet encoding machine, the Spektor, and to discern the true intentions behind the offering of this seemingly valuable device. The story begins with a depiction of the intricate planning by the clandestine Soviet agency SMERSH, which devises an elaborate plot to discredit and assassinate James Bond. Their strategy involves using a beautiful Russian cipher clerk, Tatiana Romanova, to lure Bond into a web of deceit. Bond is dispatched to Istanbul, where he is tasked with making contact with Tatiana and retrieving the Spektor. As Bond arrives in Istanbul, he becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of espionage and deceit. Tatiana, seemingly defecting from the Soviets, offers to provide the Spektor to the British, seeking asylum in return. However, Bond soon realizes that this apparent defection is part of a meticulously crafted scheme. His mission turns perilous as he discovers that Tatiana's involvement is orchestrated by SMERSH, aiming to eliminate Bond as part of their intricate plan to damage British intelligence. The novel follows Bond's encounters with various adversaries, including Red Grant, a skilled and ruthless assassin tasked with eliminating him. Bond faces life-threatening situations and engages in daring maneuvers to outwit his enemies, relying on his resourcefulness and skills to survive. Fleming's narrative is filled with suspenseful twists and turns, intricate plotting, and Bond's characteristic blend of charm, intelligence, and bravery. The story builds to an intense climax aboard the Orient Express, where Bond confronts Grant in a thrilling and deadly showdown. "From Russia, with Love" is a classic espionage novel that showcases the danger, intrigue, and high-stakes world of Cold War espionage. It remains a beloved entry in the James Bond series, celebrated for its gripping storyline, intricate plotting, and the depiction of Bond's cunning and resilience in the face of formidable adversaries.