TALK OF THE DEVIL is out now

Talk of the Devil: The Collected Writings of Ian Fleming is out now in the U.S. and UK. Conceived by Ian Fleming Publications, the book had previously only been available as part of an expensive collection of the Fleming novels. Below is the U.S. cover and a description.

A fascinating collection of rarely seen journalism and other writings by Ian Fleming, author of the James Bond series. Ian Fleming was best known for bringing to life the legendary character of James Bond, one of the most beloved and enduring icons of our time, but he was perhaps even more interesting than his creation. His career in Naval Intelligence and extensive travels around the world gave Fleming a keen eye and the authority to write on a wide range of topics beyond Bond’s adventures. 

This collection contains a selection of journalism and other writings by Fleming, covering his wartime experiences, reflections on crime and espionage, and the process of writing his novels, among other topics. Readers will feel like they are right beside Fleming, immersed in his world as he works to meet the deadline for his next Bond novel, or participates in a mortifying golf tournament, or befriends an octopus in his beloved Jamaica. A black-and-white photo insert gives dimension to the man behind the myth, bringing life to his words and providing a unique glimpse into Fleming’s world.

You can purchase Talk of the Devil at Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk, or directly from Ian Fleming Publications.

IFP announces THE SOLDIER AND THE CHRISTMAS TREE

Ian Fleming Publications has announced a new publication for release in September. Below are details.

Announcing a Festive Adventure: The Soldier and the Christmas Tree

We know it’s too early to be thinking about Christmas, but with the 80th anniversary of V.E. Day today there is no better time to reveal our new title, which is set both during the war and during the most wonderful time of the year! Publishing in autumn 2025, this heartwarming tale is inspired by the true story of how Ian Fleming was instrumental in bringing the first Christmas tree to Trafalgar Square.

It wasn’t just a rescue mission anymore. It was a race.

It is 1942, three weeks before Christmas, and the war is blazing over London. Arthur Pryor is sent on a top secret mission to Germany-occupied Norway as part of a highly-trained unit. He does not know why Commander Ian Fleming has sent them, or what they will find there. All he knows is that he must make it home to his son before Christmas day. He promised.

The Soldier and the Christmas Tree is a heartwarming tale of family and war, inspired by the true story of the first Christmas tree to be placed in Trafalgar Square, due in large part to the covert actions of James Bond creator Ian Fleming and his commando unit during the Second World War.

From the streets of London to the forests of Norway, this is an adventure filled with the horrors of war and the magic of Christmas. 

Written by Ian Fleming Publications Publishing Director Simon Ward, this perfect seasonal read also includes an essay on the real-life historical incident.

You can pre-order The Soldier and the Christmas Tree HERE.

LINK: James Bond - the 'final' Jonathan Cape editions

Our friend Peter Crush is back with a look at the final Jonathan Cape hardcover printings of the Ian Fleming James Bond novels. All four parts are below:

James Bond - the 'final' Jonathan Cape editions: (Part 1)

James Bond Last impressions Part 2: Firsts & Lasts side-by-side

The 'last impressions' (Part 3): Dr No to Thunderball - compared

Ian Fleming 'last impressions' (part 4): The final four books!

This inspired me to have a look at my own "final" hardcovers. I picked these up in 1987 during my first trip to England. Not a complete set, but all still in beautiful condition.

Keep 'em coming, Peter!

IAN FLEMING PUBLICATIONS announce 2025 releases

Ian Fleming Publications has revealed its upcoming releases for 2025 on its website. Among new eBooks and audiobooks will be Talk of the Devil, a collection of Ian Fleming's writing that has only been available as part of an expensive set. The book will be published on April 22 in the UK by Ian Fleming Publications and in the U.S. by HarperCollins.

For the full announcements, click below:

WHAT'S COMING IN 2025

LINK: Advance printings: Why I don't think we've found them all...

Another breakthrough post by our friend Peter Crush at James Bond First Editions. This time Peter tells us about advanced printings of the Fleming Bond books. This is all new to me! Click the headline or the image below to learn all about them.

LINK: Boots 'Booklovers' books - amongst the 'very first,' of the 1sts

Another knockout post by Peter Crush at James Bond First Editions. I had never heard of the Boots Booklovers editions. Now I know all about them! Click the headline link or the image below to learn all about them yourselves.

New CASINO ROYALE published in Poland

Ian Fleming's Casino Royale is published today in Poland by Skarpa Warszawska. The book was last published in Poland in 2006. Below is the cover art. Hopefully, the other books will follow soon.

Marcin Tadera of jamesbond.org.pl for the info and image.

New IAN FLEMING hardcovers available now

Ian Fleming Publications has released all 14 James Bond novels in new hardcover editions. The books have cover art by Michael Gillette and each contains archival material from the IFP vaults.

The new Ian Fleming hardcovers are available in bookstores across the UK. The rest of the world can buy them via the Ian Fleming Publications website (there's an option to buy the complete set) or via Amazon.co.uk.

CASINO ROYALE Collector's Edition

Ian Fleming Publications is offering a special edition of their new Casino Royale hardcover featuring gilt-silver sprayed edges. Only 250 are being produced. Purchase by clicking the image below.

IFP reveals new Bond covers by MICHAEL GILLETTE

Ian Fleming Publications has revealed the cover art for their new hardback editions of all 14 original Ian Fleming James Bond novels to be released on October 3, 2024. The new covers are created by Michael Gillette. You can get a closer look at each on the IFP website.

According to IFP, each book will also include a range of specially selected archival material relating to Ian and his time writing his 007 adventures. The books are available for pre-order at Amazon.co.uk.

LINK: Deciphering Fleming: Uncorrected proofs

Here's an excellent article by Peter Crush about Ian Fleming proofs. Click the headline or the image below to have a read at James Bond First Editions.

New IAN FLEMING hardcovers coming in October

Ian Fleming Publications announced today, Ian Fleming's birthday, new hardcover editions of the Fleming books with cover art by Michael Gillette. Below is the full press release.

New 007 Hardbacks Coming This year

Today, May 28th, is Ian Fleming’s birthday and to mark the occasion we’re thrilled to share news of an exciting project with you.

On October 3rd later this year, we’ll be publishing new hardback editions of all fourteen of Fleming’s original Bond stories. From Casino Royale right through to Octopussy, get ready to clear some space on your shelves for these beautiful tomes. 

The covers (to be revealed at a later date) for these prestige hardback editions will feature brand new art from legendary designer Michael Gillette, as well as bonus content. Publishing Director Simon Ward says, “I remember seeing Michael Gillette’s James Bond cover designs in a bookshop window in 2008. They were instant classics and became defining editions for a whole generation of fans. We’ve long wanted to partner with Michael again and we’re thrilled that day has finally come. We believe he’s put together something very special and can’t wait to share these all-new designs with the world.”

Speaking about this project, Michael shared the following:

“I’m very excited to see this set released. It was wonderful to make the 2008 set, and to get a second opportunity is a great honour. I hope that fans and new readers will sense the love and thought with which they were created.”

Michael shared this image as a taste of what’s to come. © Michael Gillette 2024.

All fourteen hardbacks are available to pre-order now from the links below, and we look forward to sharing the covers with you soon…

Casino Royale - IFPL | Amazon UK
Live and Let Die - IFPL | Amazon UK
Moonraker  - IFPL | Amazon UK
Diamonds are Forever - IFPL | Amazon UK
From Russia with Love - IFPL | Amazon UK
Dr. No - IFPL | Amazon UK
Goldfinger - IFPL | Amazon UK
For Your Eyes Only - IFPL | Amazon UK
Thunderball  - IFPL | Amazon UK
The Spy Who Loved Me - IFPL | Amazon UK
On Her Majesty's Secret Service - IFPL | Amazon UK
You Only Live Twice - IFPL | Amazon UK
The Man with the Golden Gun - IFPL | Amazon UK
Octopussy and the Living Daylights - IFPL | Amazon UK

IFP and Penfold mark GOLDFINGER anniversary

Ian Fleming Publications announced today new tie-in merchandise to mark the 65th anniversary of Ian Fleming's Goldfinger. Details below.

Goldfinger took out his driver and unpeeled a new ball. He said, “Dunlop 65. Number One. Always use the same ball. What's yours?” “Penfold. Hearts.”

Today marks a full 65 years since the first publication of Ian Fleming’s novel Goldfinger. A tale that revolves around of some of the finer things in life beginning with ‘G’ (gold, golf and Galore, Pussy), Fleming’s seventh Bond story features perhaps the most famous game of golf in literature.

In celebration of its anniversary, the team at Ian Fleming Publications have partnered with Penfold, the iconic British golfing brand, to create two products that celebrate Fleming’s love of the sport.

Featuring both a golf journal and a writer’s pouch, both are designed with functionality and style in mind, whether you’re using them out on the green before cocktail hour or at your writing desk in Jamaica.

As you know, James Bond has a handicap of 9. Perhaps these tasteful new products from Penfold will help you do even better.

You can read more about the collection here.

IFP announces releases for 2024

Ian Fleming Publications have announced their plans for 2024. Full press release below.

IFPL Announcement – What We Have Planned For 2024

As we make our way through the cold and blustery days of January, instead of lighting our 70th cigarette of the day, let’s instead look ahead to what’s coming in 2024. We’re very excited to share with you our plans for the year ahead and stay tuned for some surprises in the months to come…

Our first 2024 title to announce is a new eBook-only omnibus that collects Raymond Benson's six original Bond novels together into a single eBook.

James Bond: The Raymond Benson Years includes the classic books Zero Minus Ten, The Facts of Death, High Time to Kill, DoubleShot, Never Dream of Dying and The Man with the Red Tattoo.

James Bond: The Raymond Benson Years will be published on 26 February. It is available for pre-order HERE.

Next up, we're thrilled to announce that on 6 June, just in time for King Charles' official birthday, we'll be publishing a paperback edition of Charlie Higson's Sunday Times bestselling On His Majesty's Secret Service. The paperback edition will feature some exclusive new content, and we'll be sharing the new cover soon. As with the hardback, all royalties from the new edition will continue to go to support the work of the National Literacy Trust.

2024 marks 60 years since the publication of Ian Fleming's classic children's story about a flying car and the adventure of a lifetime, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. To celebrate this anniversary, we'll be publishing a new paperback edition of this beloved tale on 13 June. Aimed at young readers and featuring brand new illustrations, it's not the only thing we have planned this year to celebrate the world’s most famous flying car... Keep an eye on the skies, as we'll be revealing both the illustrator and cover of the new paperback version soon!

In time for James Bond Day in October, we'll be releasing fourteen beautiful new hardback editions of Ian Fleming's original Bond stories. From Casino Royale to Octopussy, start clearing some space on your shelves! Stay tuned for word on some exciting surprises, including the artist of the new covers...

That concludes the titles we'll be publishing ourselves, but we'd be remiss not to mention the titles coming from our partners too.

The first issue of a new blockbuster Bond comics run, penned by superstar writer Garth Ennis (The Boys, Preacher) was published 17 January.  In Your Cold, Cold Heart the humour is black, the blood is red and the drinks are crystal clear. Order your copy of James Bond: 007 (2024) #1 online or from your local comic shop, and issue #2 will be out in February.

Don't miss the second instalment in Kim Sherwood's explosive Double O series, A Spy Like Me, publishing in the US on 23 April and the UK on 25 April from HarperCollins. Johanna Harwood, Agent 003, is on the hunt – for revenge and for James Bond…

Our friends over at the Folio Society also have something special in store for you this year, but our lips are sealed for now.

Finally, our team is working hard to improve our online web shop. This year we'll be adding the option to buy eBooks of our titles direct from us - after purchase these will be distributed by email via BookFunnel, and will be available to download and send to your preferred device. We're also working to expand the areas we ship to, beyond just the UK & USA. Keep an eye on our socials for announcements of when both eBooks and expanded shipping options are live.

P.S. We recommend you start work on your golf game…

Thank you, IFP, for keeping the Bond flag flying!

Anniversary BONDS for 2024

HAPPY NEW YEAR and welcome to another year of The Book Bond. Here's a rundown of the Bond novels that will be celebrating notable anniversaries this year. Break out the bookmarks and champagne!

70th Anniversary

Ian Fleming's second Bond novel brings 007 to the United States on the trail of gangsters and pirate treasure. Live and Let Die was published by Jonathan Cape in the UK on April 5, 1954.

60th Anniversary

Ian Fleming sends James Bond to Japan in You Only Live Twice, published by Jonathan Cape in the UK on March 26, 1964. It was released in the U.S. in August by the New American Library.

40th Anniversary

John Gardner planned to take a break after his inital three book contract, but 1984 saw the suprise publication of his fourth Bond, Role of Honor, relased by Putnam in the U.S. in September and Jonathan Cape in the UK on October 4.

30th Anniversary

John Garder nears the end of his run with his 13th orginal Bond adventure, SeaFire, first published in the UK by Hodder & Stoughton in August 1994 and by Putnam in the U.S. in September. 

25th Anniversary

My favorite Raymond Benson Bond novel, High Time To Kill, turns 25 this year. The book was published in the UK by Hodder & Stoughton on May 6, 1999. The U.S. edition from Putnam (pictured here) was published on June 7, 1999.

10th Anniversary

Steve Cole continues the Young Bond series with his debute novel, Shoot To Kill, which finds young James in action in Hollywood. The book was released in the UK by Random House on November 6, 2014. There was no U.S. release.

Happy reading!

Season's Greetings from IAN FLEMING PUBLICATIONS

Ian Fleming Publications has signed off for the year with a lovely Christmas card and some parting words via their Moneypenny newsletter.

Trust that our 2024 strategy is approved and ready to put into action. I do believe I’ll be able to share some of it with you in January – we have some exciting missions planned. 

With this year marking the 60th anniversary of On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, it’s fitting to leave you with some festive words from Fleming himself:

They were having a party up there, celebrating something. What fun these rich folk had, to be sure! And then Bond remembered. But of course! It was Christmas Eve! God rest ye merry gentlemen, let nothing ye dismay! Bond's skis hissed an accompaniment as he zigzagged fast down the beautiful snow slope. White Christmas! Well, he'd certainly got himself that!

Wishing all a Merry Christmas and Season's Greetings from The Book Bond. I'll see you next year!

IAN FLEMING: THE COMPLETE MAN released in UK

This week sees the release in the UK of the new biography, Ian Fleming: The Complete Man by Nicholas Shakespeare.

A fresh portrait of the man behind James Bond, and his enduring impact, by an award-winning biographer with unprecedented access to the Fleming family papers.

Ian Fleming's greatest creation, James Bond, has had an enormous and ongoing impact on our culture. What Bond represents about ideas of masculinity, the British national psyche and global politics has shifted over time, as has the interpretation of the life of his author. But Fleming himself was more mysterious and subtle than anything he wrote.

Ian's childhood with his gifted brother Peter and his extraordinary mother set the pattern for his ambition to be 'the complete man', and he would strive for the means to achieve this 'completeness' all his life. Only a thriller writer for his last twelve years, his dramatic personal life and impressive career in Naval Intelligence put him at the heart of critical moments in world history, while also providing rich inspiration for his fiction.

Nicholas Shakespeare is one of the most gifted biographers working today. His talent for uncovering new material that casts fresh light on his subjects is fully evident in this masterful, definitive biography.

You can purchase Ian Fleming: The Complete Man now at Amazon.co.uk. The U.S. release is set for March 12, 2024.

The grave of IAN FLEMING

The enigmatic Arthur Dark of the YouTube channel Hollywood Graveyard visits the grave of Ian Fleming in part one of his trip to England. Fleming shows up at 08:03. I love these videos.

LINK: Double O Seventy - A report for the 70 Years of James Bond 007 celebration

Our friend Ajay Chowdhury reports on the 70th Anniversary celebration event in London. Check it out at From Sweden With Love.

70TH ANNIVERSARY editions released today

Today sees the release of Ian Fleming Publications all-new 70th Anniversary reprints of the classic James Bond novels by Ian Fleming. The set also includes his two non-Bond novels Thrilling Cities and The Dimond Smugglers. Fans have been overall positive about the new cover art. Less so about the "sensitivity" edits. But it's great have these books still and print and still as popular as ever 70 years after the first appearance of James Bond in Casino Royale. Raise a glass to 007!

You can purchase these new editions at Amazon.co.uk.