Die Another Day

The story, without spoilers

Bond's search for a traitor takes him from North Korea to Iceland, with the risk of a catastrophic war behind the pursuit. He encounters allies and assassins while trying to untangle deception and revenge. The journey makes his own vulnerability part of the danger.

This is Benson's adaptation of the 2002 film, not a seventh original Bond novel. It follows The Man with the Red Tattoo in publication year, but readers should distinguish its screen storyline from the final independent mission in Benson's six-book run.

Can I start here?

Yes, if you want the film in novel form. You do not need the Union trilogy to understand this adaptation. For Benson's original fiction, begin with Zero Minus Ten rather than a film novelisation.

What stands out

The contrast between North Korea and Iceland gives the adventure a recognisable geographical frame. Its status as Benson's final film novelisation also makes it a separate choice from his final original Bond book.

Who wrote it

Benson wrote The James Bond Bedside Companion before becoming the first American commissioned to write Bond; his official work includes Die Another Day. He wrote six original Bond novels and three film novelisations.

Where it fits in Bond’s life

Die Another Day follows its film’s story and screen continuity. Read this author’s film adaptations separately from Fleming’s originals.

Content notes

Adult readers. Captivity, betrayal, assassination, revenge and the threat of war.

Setting

• North Korea
• Iceland

Main characters

James Bond, The traitor Bond is pursuing, The film’s allies and assassins.