Books

London: Cape, 1953. A first edition, first printing published by Cape in 1953. A near fine book without inscriptions. A little light pushing to the spine tips. No foxing. A lovely copy. SIGNED and INSCRIBED to the front endpaper by the Author - 'To Lisl/Despite whose loving/care this book was/written/X/Ian/ In a very good+ unclipped first issue wrapper with no overprinting to the front flap of the wrapper. Some light chipping to the head of the spine. A little light handling marks to the rear panel. Ian Fleming first met Lisl Popper (then Lisa Jokl) at age nineteen during the "golden time" at Kitzbuhel in Austria in 1926. She was eight years older than Fleming, and worked a local cafe. Described as a "plain-looking Jewish girl", she and her friends first spotted young Fleming when he walked into their cafe and ordered coffee. As was usual for Fleming, he sat and read a book by himself. Lisl recalled his appearance "with sleepy blue eyes and a romantic face" - but his…

"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.