Staff Pick
This is where you start the James Bond series. If you only want to read one Ian Fleming novel, Casino Royale is the one to read, although after you read it, you might want to read more. The films may have begun with Dr. No, but Fleming's novels began with Casino Royale. Read the adventures of a different Bond than the one portrayed on the big screen (although, Daniel Craig seems to be the most accurate to Fleming's character). He's a bit more rough around the edges and uses his wits much more than Q's gadgets. Casino Royale is a dark, fast-paced, beautiful spy novel that had no idea what it was starting when it was published. Recommended By Jeffrey J., Powells.com
Synopses & Reviews
Synopsis
In the novel that introduced James Bond to the world, Ian Fleming's agent 007 is dispatched to a French casino in Royale-les-Eaux. His mission? Bankrupt a ruthless Russian agent who's been on a bad luck streak at the baccarat table. One of SMERSH's most deadly operatives, the man known only as -Le Chiffre, - has been a prime target of the British Secret Service for years. If Bond can wipe out his bankroll, Le Chiffre will likely be -retired- by his paymasters in Moscow. But what if the cards won't cooperate? After a brutal night at the gaming tables, Bond soon finds himself dodging would-be assassins, fighting off brutal torturers, and going all-in to save the life of his beautiful female counterpart, Vesper Lynd. Taut, tense, and effortlessly stylish, Ian Fleming's inaugural James Bond adventure has all the hallmarks that made the series a touchstone for a generation of readers.