Books

Norwalk, CT: The Easton Press, [2005]. [Spy thriller] Collector's Edition, 'bound in genuine leather'. Octavo (19 x 13cm), pp.218. Printed on acid-neutral archival paper, with colour frontispiece of the original jacket artwork by Richard Chopping. Publisher's full brown hide, decoratively blocked in gilt, moire silk endpapers, ribbon marker, all edges gilt. Absolutely fine, with publisher' printed return address tucked in. The bibliographer's copy, with his pencilled ownership ('Jack' bulldog paperweight not included). This is a "well-produced library edition" which originally retailed at $54.70 (Fleming Bibliography, p.578). Books were sold exclusively through the Easton Press website or via their catalogue and are long-since sold out. Copies on the used market are genuinely scarce. Gilbert F8.

"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.