Title: Forever and a Day
Author: Anthony Horowitz
First published May 31, 2018
320 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780062872807 (ISBN10: 006287280X)
Rating: 3.88
Overview
Secrets lurk beneath the waves, but this time the sea has uncovered a deadly mystery. James Bond, agent 007, has been murdered in Marseille, and a new agent must take his place.
The fight against organized crime demands a new weapon, and James Bond’s successor must earn their license to kill. This is the story of how a legend was born, set against the unforgiving backdrop of the French Riviera’s criminal underworld.
About the Author
Anthony Horowitz is a renowned author, often mentioned in the same breath as Enid Blyton and Mark A. Cooper, as one of the most original and best spy-kids writers of the century.
He has been writing since he was a child, starting at the age of eight, and professionally since he turned twenty. His books featuring the character Alex Rider have been highly successful.
Horowitz is also recognized for creating the award-winning detective series Foyle’s War, as well as the gripping event drama Collision. He has written episodes for several other TV shows such as Poirot, Murder in Mind, Midsomer Murders, and Murder Most Horrid.
Horowitz has been the patron of the East Anglia Children’s Hospices since 2009.
On January 19, 2011, the estate of Arthur Conan Doyle announced that Horowitz would write a new Sherlock Holmes novel. This was a significant endorsement as it was the first time that such an effort has received official approval from the estate.
The new novel was called the House of Silk.
Editoral Review
Anthony Horowitz has done it again with his latest James Bond novel, Forever and a Day. Published on May 31, 2018, this espionage thriller is a prequel to Ian Fleming’s Casino Royale and is the ninth book in the James Bond series to be written by Horowitz.
Horowitz, who is an English novelist and screenwriter, has an impressive resume which includes the popular Alex Rider series and being the only writer authorized by the Ian Fleming estate to write James Bond novels. His writing style is fast-paced and full of action, which is fitting for a novel about one of the most popular spies in literary history.
Forever and a Day takes place in the 1950s and begins at the French Riviera where James Bond is sent to eliminate a dangerous crime lord. However, things take a deadly turn, and Bond’s mission becomes more complicated than expected.
He must navigate a web of lies, betrayal, and intrigue to complete his mission and keep himself alive. Horowitz masterfully creates a world that is both familiar and fresh.
The characters are well-developed, and the pacing is spot on, making the reading experience thrilling throughout. The setting is described vividly, and Horowitz does an excellent job of embedding the story with historic and cultural significance, providing us with an insightful look into post-war Britain.
One of the strengths of the book is its exploration of Bond’s past, providing us with a deeper understanding of the character. We see Bond as a more vulnerable and human character, which is a welcome change from his usual portrayal as an infallible super spy.
Critics may argue that Horowitz’s take on Bond is too by-the-book and lacks the creativity and unpredictability that Fleming was known for. However, it is important to note that Horowitz has created a novel that is suited to both Bond enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Another minor flaw in the book is that while the characters are well-developed, some of the minor characters lack substance and can feel like mere placeholders. Overall, Forever and a Day is an excellent addition to the James Bond series, and Horowitz has done a commendable job handling a beloved character.
The book is engaging, thrilling, and a page-turner from beginning to end. With interesting characters, great pacing, and an absorbing plot, this book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good spy novel.
Therefore, we would recommend this book to both Bond fans and those who enjoy spy novels. If you’re looking for a book that is action-packed, suspenseful, and full of intrigue, Forever and a Day is the book for you.
We would give this book a solid 4.5 out of 5, and it definitely deserves its place on your bookshelf.
