After an exciting but incredibly dangerous summer in Italy, James Bond is back at Eton and under strict instructions to NOT look for trouble.

As always, trouble finds him. His good friend Pritpal has received a letter from his crossword club teacher Mr Fairborn. It has already been opened by the principal as Mr Fairborn also sent a letter of resignation. It was very sudden and strange, and the principal is concerned.

After reading the letter, so is Pritpal. Not much of it makes sense. There are names of boys that don’t exist and a poem in the middle of it. The principal thinks Mr Fairborn has gone a bit mad. Pritpal sees it for what it is though. A coded message, needing to be deciphered to learn what has truly happened to his crossword club teacher.

James and one of his Danger Club friends begin to investigate as Pritpal works on the letter. The closer James gets to uncovering clues the more danger he finds himself in. He’s forced into a car accident, nearly drowns in a river, is shot at, threatened with a murderously sharp needle weapon that he knows has already killed one person, among a plethora of life threatening situations.

The villains are many – beginning with two brothers named after classical musicians but as deadly as vipers, who try and try again to take James down. There is a distinguished English gentleman, a Sir in fact, who is as devious as Dracula at midnight.

A Russian woman, dubbed the Grandmother by her subordinates, is tougher than them all rolled up together.

What do they all want? What are they trying to hide from James and his friends? An early computer, built in a secret location and heading to Britain’s enemies.

The clock is ticking while James tries to track down Mr Fairborn. Luckily an old friend called Red Kelly and his sister are keen to help.

This episode began a little slowly, but I’m glad I kept reading as it became the most in depth plot so far.

Clues, puzzles, ciphers, poems and luck are all in the mix of this Young Bond adventure. James’ past escapades have made him more confident about facing danger and it comes at him from all directions. Again and again his life is at stake, but like his confidence, his sense of right and wrong has grown too.

He’s determined not to give in and to do his best at saving lives. Double or Die brings full-on action, evil villains left, right and centre, and another girl who takes a shine to his daring and courage. 

Bring on the next adventure – Young Bond (4) Hurricane Gold!

Author – Charlie Higson

Age – 10+

Read more reviews for other Young Bond adventures (Click on a Cover)

(2007, Penguin, Crime, Murder, Mystery, Action, Friendship, Humour, Series, Courage, School, Historical, Secret, Danger, Computer, Eton, London, Poverty, Old friend, Payback, Kidnap)