As a James Bond fan, I grew up watching the film, and later discovered the books. Much later, I learned about the author. This book provided new light on Mr. Flemming, which as a fan of trivia bits, I enjoyed immensely.
I do think there's missed opportunity not to promote the book with a tagline "Flemming by Shakespeare."

Nicholas Shakespeare’s “Ian Fleming: The Complete Man” is a chore to read, but one you’ll enjoy, especially if you’re a Bondophile. Unlike most biographies that offer significant dates, times, and settings, this one digs deep (and I mean DEEP) into Fleming’s psyche. Through this detailed history, you have a front row seat to the settings, situations, and characters that became Fleming’s James Bond stories. Who knew these works were not 100% fictional! Not a light read but a definite must-read if you love Bond… James Bond.

Review posted on Goodreads.....

"This fascinating biography of Ian Fleming amply demonstrates that the James Bond character is in many ways the alter ego of Fleming himself, and that the plots to the Bond novels are inspired by Fleming's own experience as a British agent. While casual readers may find the book to be a bit too detailed, devoted Bond fans will be delighted to learn about the intriguing (short) life that Fleming led, and his many shortcomings. Shakespeare seemingly leaves no stone unturned in trying to understand Fleming's inspirations as a novelist. This will likely be the definitive Fleming novel for a long time. Well worth a read. It's a real treat."