As we particularly remember Ian Fleming today on what would be another celebration of his May 28, 1908, birthday, it is most fitting that James Bond has returned.

Carte Blanche, the Ian Fleming continuation novel by best-selling author Jeffery Deaver, made a grand appearance via special event put on by publisher Hodder & Stoughton.

Deaver himself arrived in a red Bentley Continental GT not too far removed from the car James Bond owns and drives in the book (sand obvious 007 markings, of course). Bond-girl in form-fitting leather garb, accompanied separately on motorcycle.

First copies of Carte Blanche were individually hand-delivered by Royale Marine Commandos, dropping from repelling ropes anchored to rafters high above the floor in St Pancras International. Ian Fleming’s great-niece, actress Lucy Fleming, made remarks on behalf of the family.

Once again, top marks to publisher Hodder & Stoughton for not only staging an event most befitting the James Bond icon, but for producing an exceptionally well polished video for promotion and posterity.