A belated review of this 398 page book price at £20 which tells the true story of a unit of authorised looters, set up by Lt Commander Ian Fleming RNVR, who would steal enemy intelligence. They were called IAU ( Intelligence Assault Unit ) or better known as the 30 AU to be later disbanded in January 1946.

This well-researched historical book opens with abbreviations, acronyms & maps, also has a 19 page end index and 23 pages of acknowledgement/source notes. Within the 334 pages of narrative there is reference to Fleming's later Bond books. It covers all aspects of World War II history with Fleming fleeting in and out of the tale. It takes 138 pages just to get to 30 AU's first 'abortive' mission on 19 August, 1942.

At its centre is 8 pages of b&w photos - 1st of uniformed Fleming in Room 39 of Admiralty House as it looks at his relationship with Admiral John Godfrey ( later his basis for Bond's boss M ).The last photo page sees the author on the Dr No set talking with Sean Connery and below one with wife Ann at his holiday home of Goldeneye in Jamaica.

This author describes Fleming as "both drunken Smyth ( in short story Octopussy ) and young Bond, who like him lost his father. He can see himself in the present, as a decaying old sinner, and in the past, as a cleansing hero."

Must admit didn't read all about the main subjects, the brave 30 AU but if you are a fan of WWII historical books then this one is for you.

1. By Ian Fleming
2. By John Gardner
3. By Raymond Benson
4. By Charlie Higson
5. By
   Jeffery Deaver
   Sebastian Faulks
   Kate Westbrook
   Christopher Wood
6. Biographies
7. Other related 007 Books
8. Lists:
• a to z
• by date
• by author

Just the BOND BOOK FACTS ... now here.

© SH   007 Bond Supplement - MMXIII
( NB. This is a James Bond fan's website and any contribution used is appreciated. )
© James Bond Films: Eon Productions Ltd, Danjaq LLC, United Artists, MGM, Columbia Pictures.