I remember reading ‘Dr No’ and ‘Casino Royale’ in my early 20s, and I wondered what it would be like trying to read a James Bond book these days given all of the social awareness that’s developed (and maybe regressed?) over the last couple of decades, let alone 70 years. I’m quite surprised that ‘From Russia With Love’ had any redeemable qualities whatsoever. Fleming is really good at describing environments and people’s appearances. At times he gets carried away and becomes a bit too descriptive, but he really grounds the reader in the setting. There were even some genuine instances of tension, particularly near the end. The plot is ridiculous, but the incidental moments are what make it so readable.

The big drawbacks - and they are big - are the near constant expressions of sexism and racism. It almost feels unforgivable even for the 1950s when this was written, particularly the not-so-thinly veiled advocacy (or at least acceptance) of sexual assault and domestic violence. I’d totally understand if someone couldn’t read this based on those elements alone.

Most characters are pretty one-dimensional, but there are surprising examples of Bond’s introspection that you don’t really get in the films. He gets nervous, frustrated and has doubts; these are not traits usually associated with the film character. By the end, I felt really in a groove with the writing. Dare I say I may read another one? I hear ‘Moonraker’ is good. 🚀