Dr. No

by Ian Fleming
Dr. No cover
Good Books rating 4.2
Thriller/Suspense
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 9065
  • Added: 2025-12-23
  • Updated: 2026-01-01
  • ISBN: 9780063445635
  • Publisher: William Morrow Large Print
  • Published: 2025-07-15
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

James Bond is sent to Jamaica to investigate the disappearance of a fellow agent, only to find himself entangled in a web of danger and intrigue. The island's beauty belies its deadly secrets, and Bond soon discovers that the enigmatic Dr. Julius No is at the heart of the mystery. With his signature blend of charm and lethal efficiency, Bond teams up with a local fisherman and a mysterious beachcomber to unravel the truth. Their journey leads them to confront a terrifying legend known as 'the Dragon,' and Bond must ultimately face a grueling test designed by the sadistic Dr. No himself. This thrilling adventure showcases Bond's resourcefulness and courage as he battles against a formidable foe in a race against time.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2026-01-01
mixed 3.80

The book is fun and entertaining but lacks the depth and plausibility of earlier novels. It is criticized for its racist and sexist elements.

The reviewer finds Dr. No to be an enjoyable read, highlighting its pulpiness and entertainment value. However, they note that it lacks the depth and plausibility of earlier James Bond novels. The book is criticized for its racist and sexist elements, which detract from the overall experience. Despite these flaws, it remains a fun and engaging adventure.

Quick quotes

    Dr. No was still fun in all its racist, sexist, cheesy pulpiness

    it lacked the details and thin veneer of plausibility that earlier novels had

    boy has it aged poorly

Reddit - r/JamesBond · 2021-09-29
entertaining 4.00

Dr. No is not the best Bond novel but it is one of the most entertaining. It refines and expands the pulp elements of previous stories.

The reviewer on Reddit finds Dr. No to be a standout in the Bond series, not necessarily the best but certainly one of the most entertaining. They appreciate how it builds on the pulp elements introduced in earlier novels, making it a thrilling read. The reviewer suggests that while it may not be the most sophisticated Bond story, it excels in delivering an engaging and enjoyable experience. The novel's ability to capture the essence of Bond's adventures is highlighted, making it a memorable entry in the series.

Quick quotes

    Dr. No isn't the best Bond novel, but it is probably the most entertaining.

    I love how it refines and expands the pulp elements of Live and Let Die.

    It's a thrilling read that captures the essence of Bond's adventures.

Coffee Addicted Writer · 2021-09-29
underrated 4.50

Dr. No deserves more praise than it received from critics in 1958. It is an underrated gem in the Bond series.

The reviewer from Coffee Addicted Writer argues that Dr. No has been unfairly criticized and deserves better recognition. They believe it is an underrated gem in the Bond series, offering a unique and compelling story. The reviewer appreciates the novel's ability to stand out among other Bond adventures, highlighting its strengths and the enjoyment it brings to readers. They suggest that the initial negative reception was unwarranted and that the novel has a lot to offer.

Quick quotes

    Dr. No might not be the best James Bond story, but it deserves better praise than what it received from critics in 1958.

    Calling it nasty is a disservice to the novel's engaging narrative.

    It's an underrated gem in the Bond series.

Amazon · 2021-09-29
excellent 4.50

Dr. No is one of the best novels in the James Bond series. It is a must-read for fans of the character.

The reviewer on Amazon highly recommends Dr. No, calling it one of the best novels in the James Bond series. They believe it is a must-read for fans of the character and a great starting point for those new to Fleming's work. The reviewer praises the novel's ability to capture the essence of Bond's adventures, making it an enjoyable and thrilling read. They suggest that the novel's strengths lie in its engaging narrative and the way it brings Bond's world to life.

Quick quotes

    Absolutely one of the best novels of flaming on 007!

    If you like James Bond, this is a must-read.

    A great starting point for those new to Fleming's work.

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