Books

New York: The Macmillan Company, 1954. [Bond] FIRST US EDITION. Octavo (21 x 14cm), pp.176. Bound in original dark green cloth boards in the pictorial dust-jacket designed by Leo Manso. Priced to the front flap ($2.75) but with both corners clipped, as was the publisher's method. No inscriptions, discreet ink stamp beneath flap, used jacket has some tape strips to reverse side, minor touch-up in places, spine a little sunned. Shows well; an inexpensive copy of the first edition. Author's first novel. Gilbert A2b (1.2).

"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.