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Probably one of the more ridiculous novels in the Fleming cannon. It definitely seemed more misogynistic and racist than some prior entries, but it also just seemed like a very absurdist take on the character and the Bond universe. I believe that Fleming had actually wanted to kill off Bond at the end of From Russia With Love, but was convinced to revive the character. I find it interesting that this novel would be the first after his revival. In fact, I even wonder if Fleming meant to see how far he could push the boundaries of believability in this work. From the sex kitten Bond girl to the ludicrous Dr. No to the endurance test that Bond is forced to undergo near the end, the narrative is truly weird. It definitely wasn't good, but it might have been great in a very off-kilter way.
At the very least, it contains the blueprint for the Bond movies. Up until this novel, there were no truly weird villains. Doctor No is the first iteration. Born with his heart on the wrong side of his body, half-German, half-Chinese, hands removed and replaced with metal pincers: it all starts here. Couple that with Doctor No's penchant for extremely elaborate ways of killing his enemies and you have the recipe for the films. An interesting piece of history.
At the very least, it contains the blueprint for the Bond movies. Up until this novel, there were no truly weird villains. Doctor No is the first iteration. Born with his heart on the wrong side of his body, half-German, half-Chinese, hands removed and replaced with metal pincers: it all starts here. Couple that with Doctor No's penchant for extremely elaborate ways of killing his enemies and you have the recipe for the films. An interesting piece of history.