‘Fifty Shades of Grey’: E. L. James’ Latest Novel Is Written From Christian Grey’s Perspective


E. L. James has announced a new Fifty Shades of Grey novel, which will debut on June 18. Unlike the other books in the series, the new novel, titled Grey, is told from Christian’s point of view.

The original trilogy, which includes Fifty Shades of Grey, Fifty Shades Darker, and Fifty Shades Freed, is narrated by Anastasia Steele.

A recent college graduate, Steele is intrigued by a successful businessman named Christian Gray — who she meets during a job interview. As Gray is also intrigued by Miss Steele, the interview quickly leads to something far more complicated — and erotic.

In the first novel, Grey introduces Steele to the BDSM lifestyle. Although she is initially reluctant, Steele eventually agrees to sign a contract — in which she consents to a submissive role in her relationship with Mr. Grey.

As discussed on E. L. James’ website, the unusual relationship is further complicated by Grey’s dark and mysterious past.

“For all the trappings of success—his multinational businesses, his vast wealth, his loving family—Grey is a man tormented by demons and consumed by the need to control.”

Throughout the trilogy, Christian Grey is clearly hesitant to reveal his feelings and emotions. However, as reported by Cosmopolitan, the new Fifty Shades of Grey novel is written from Grey’s perspective.

E. L. James confirmed the new point of view will allow readers to delve into Grey’s complicated mind.

“Christian is a complex character… Readers have always been fascinated by his desires and motivations, and his troubled past… Also, as anyone who has ever been in a relationship knows, there are two sides to every story. It’s been a great pleasure to return to my happy place — writing.”

Although the Fifty Shades of Gray trilogy was largely successful, selling more than 90 million copies, the books have been the subject of heated controversy.

The novels explicitly describes a sexual relationship between two adults — which includes bondage, dominance, and submission.

Anastasia Steele clearly consented to the unusual relationship, as she agreed to sign Christian Grey’s contract. However, critics have argued that Steele was coerced, as she was simply too naïve to understand the complexity of a BDSM lifestyle.

Some critics have asserted author E. L. James’ depiction of the BDSM lifestyle in general is seriously flawed. In an article, which was published by Hollywood Reporter, professional dominatrix Lady Velvet Steel explains.

“Christian Grey… is supposedly a dominant in ‘Fifty Shades.’ He isn’t a dominant. He’s a stalker. He breaks into Anastasia’s house, he bullies her friend, he buys her expensive gifts. He is constantly crossing boundaries. And S&M is all about respecting boundaries.”

E. L. James’ latest Fifty Shades of Grey novel promises to answer a lot of questions about Christian Grey’s emotions and state of mind. However, it is unclear whether it will address questions about the often criticized depiction of the BDSM lifestyle.

[Image via Shutterstock]

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