Avid readers and fans of erotica can hardly have missed the brouhaha over Fifty Shades of Grey, the surprise bestseller by E.L. James.
It’s been written about in The Huffington Post, ABC News has covered it, NPR has debated whether or not it’s sexist, the NY Times has written it up as an “S & M Cinderella” story, and it’s already in pre-production to be adapted into a film.
So what’s it all about? From Audible:
Erotic, amusing, and deeply moving, the Fifty Shades Trilogy is a tale that will obsess you, possess you, and stay with you forever.
When literature student Anastasia Steele goes to interview young entrepreneur Christian Grey, she encounters a man who is beautiful, brilliant, and intimidating. The unworldly, innocent Ana is startled to realize she wants this man and, despite his enigmatic reserve, finds she is desperate to get close to him. Unable to resist Ana’s quiet beauty, wit, and independent spirit, Grey admits he wants her, too—but on his own terms.
Shocked yet thrilled by Grey’s singular erotic tastes, Ana hesitates. For all the trappings of his success—multinational businesses, vast wealth, a loving family—Grey is a man tormented by demons and consumed by the need to control. When the couple embarks on a daring, passionately physical affair, Ana discovers Christian Grey’s secrets and explores her own dark desires.
Please note: This audiobook contains graphic adult content.
Fans of the Story of O, erotica and edgy, adult romance will want to check out Fifty Shades of Grey in Audible format—but probably with headphones in place!