To mark the launch of brand new Bond world thriller The Hook and the Eye, a launch evening was mounted by author Raymond Benson and Ian Fleming Publications in London on October 7th 2025.
It was a top night with Raymond aptly flanked by a whole secret service of writers and authors – including Paul Duncan, Simon Ward, M. W. Craven, Ajay Chowdhury, Matthew Field, Samantha Weinberg and this bullet catcher – celebrating his latest foray into the world of 007 and Fleming.
Photo / Mark O’Connell
Set in 1952 on the cusp of the original Casino Royale (1953), The Hook and the Eye sees Benson focus on 007’s CIA pal and fellow Fleming adventurer, Felix Leiter.
Leiter is jobless, has left the CIA and is working for the Pinkerton Detective Agency. When he discovers a murder plot and a cabal of spies in the heart of Manhattan, Felix must escort the ‘impossibly beautiful’ Dora across America from NYC to Texas. Intrigue, adventure and deceit are like highway billboards, and Benson’s Bond-adjacent caper is a love story, a spy thriller and a love letter to Americana.
Photo / Mark O’Connell
After penning the influential and vital The James Bond Bedside Companion (1984), Raymond’s Bond reach later listed six continuation James Bond novels (beginning with 1997’s Zero Minus Ten), and now also includes short stories, computer games, role playing games and Bond film novelizations.
“I’m excited to bring this story to dedicated fans of Ian Fleming. It’s been a long time brewing!”
– Raymond Benson
Not only are Raymond’s Bond credentials without question, but his take on mid-century Americana, the backdrop of the States and his grip on US culture and politics are so well primed to assist Felix Leiter in this new project.
For more details on The Hook and the Eye click here.
Special thanks to Raymond Benson, the Ian Fleming family and Ian Fleming Publications.
Photo / Mark O’Connell
