Picking up a couple months after On her Majesty's Secret Service leaves off You Only Live Twice is the better half. Again the story is very slow in developing, but not too the point where you are bored. The novel takes place almost entirely in Japan and presents some interesting insights into the Japanese culture of that time.The story itself revolves around Dr. Shatterhand (maybe the worst doctor's name ever) and his Castle of Death (an awesome name for a castle!). Dr. Shatterhand is a Swedish scientist that has created a botanical garden full of deadly plants and fish. This concentration of deadly things piques the interest of the local population interested in honorable suicide. Bond is hired to stop it.
While the story is interesting I truly enjoyed the descriptions and origins provided by Fleming for all of the dangerous plants in the garden. While most were unfamiliar general outdoorsy types would recognize the poison ivy and oak, along with the castor beans and others listed. Maybe its just me but I think it would be cool to visit a garden like that, albeit in a safe manner. And who wouldn't want a lake filled with piranhas!
If you want to know more about the origins of James Bond, and his history as a young lad than you should read this book, namely the second to last chapter...
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