Many of us have wondered how much of the entertaining escapades of 007 portrayed in Ian Flemings books, are founded in fact. The series of silver screen 007s, whether with smooth Casanova style or rugged charm, overcoming or outwitting an endless variety of villains in fabulous locations, has only increased the sense of myth. Now, the Moneypenny Diaries reveals all. Dr Westbrook has been fastidous in her research, as attested by the copious footnotes, which unquestionably link the events in Miss Moneypenny's diaries to the Cuban missile crisis. The extracts from the diaries themselves, provide a unique insight into the world of the secret service, the personality of Mr Bond, and the stress of working undercover. Miss Moneypenny herself comes to vividly to life, proving to be an engaging and adventurous personality with a great deal of personal and professional integrity, and the odd moment of Bridget Jones angst too. During her lifetime she clearly inspired her niece, whose fascination and affection for her aunt leap out of the page. At the end Dr Westbrook lets on that she is now editing the next volume of here aunt's journals, and I closed this book in expectation of another volume of rivetting reading to look forward to - hopefully soon!