'...all because of a few old women and their birds.'

A criminal mastermind is interrupted in his plans by ornithologists. In getting rid of them in ways only criminal masterminds can, he knocks of British SS personnel and has Bond unleashed on him. A more human Bond than the movie Bond, but just as effective.

The story proceeds quickly and easily, but the background and characters are not varied and described enough to create a convincing atmosphere. The 'brave giant' it was sad to see killed off, and the fight with the giant squid was disappointingly short. The bird-s*** plot of the book would not make Hollywood, it had to be embellished with radioactivity and the CIA.

Next up: on her majesty's service...