Amazon has bought the rights to produce James Bond novels in North America as the online giant takes a step closer to becoming a publisher.

The online retailer has signed a 10 year deal for both print and e-book rights for all the 007 titles written by Ian Fleming after a previous contract with Penguin expired.

Amazon will begin reissuing the titles beginning in the summer.

Ian Fleming Publications managing director Corinne Turner said: “We believe that Amazon Publishing has the ability to place the books back at the heart of the Bond brand, balancing traditional publishing routes with new technologies and new ways of reaching our readers.”

Since the Bond books’ first publication the books have sold over 100 million copies worldwide.

Amazon Publishing director, business development, rights and licensing Philip Patrick said: “Amazon Publishing offers signature authors a new life for great backlist titles. Fleming is the perfect fit.”

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