50 Shades of Grey: Book 1

50 Shades of Grey by E.L James is a book for the 21st century. Contrary to popular opinion it is a good read and allows the reader to explore a whole new world beyond their own mind.

E.L James, Author of 50 Shades of Grey

Following the popular trends is sometimes what a journalist has to do to really understand the societies interests. In some cases this can be watching a genre you don't particularly enjoy or an experience you want to know more about. In this instance it is a book that is dragging us into modern day life one housewife at a time. It is not just aimed at housewives and mothers but all of society, however an amusing joke advert for the book (shown at the end of this) says otherwise...

In this case, I chose to embark on a whole new journey and read #1 New York Times Bestseller 50 Shades of Grey. Not having read much of this genre, if any, I had a long way to go to understand how E.L James came up with the inspiration for the trilogy.

In a previous interview she mentioned that she got inspiration from Stephenie Meyer and her Twilight Saga and originally posted it online as Twilight fanfiction.

Th book tells the story of Anastasia Steele and how from a chance encounter she meets successful entrepreneur Christian Gray and the connection in instantaneous. The couple both have demons to overcome, hers being the introduction to a life of BDSM and his being his fear of commitment.

The story is as it appears online, a graphic book of sexual encounters but there is so much more to it than what people say. Having read 50 Shades of Grey myself, the story is a typical romance. There is an attraction between two adults, both have their issues to overcome if the relationship is to survive. Granted if I was in her position I would probably run for the hills but I understand why she chooses to do what she does.

Yes it is true at times I was reading through almost closed eyes because some of the content is so out there but you have to admire E.L James for getting it out there and rumour has it she has tried most of the acts within the book with her husband, how is that for research?

My Personal Choice
for Christian Gray

For a woman to get so inspirted and to write a trilogy of this nature and for it to take off as it has is a fantastic achievement, James has never written a book before these three and I think you will agree that no matter what your overall opinion of the book, that it is a real eye opener for anyone who dares to read it. I was hooked due to the nature of the story line and the darker side of the book is just a part of life. However, as a friend said to me, no author writes the whole truth about every day life or there would be a few pages dedicated to taking trips to the loo!

Having finished the story today I find myself completely involved with the characters and what is going on, it is left at a cliff hanger and leaves the author wanting to know what happens next. I literally reached straight for 50 Shades Darker to begin the next part of an epic journey.

The story is well written and thorough and a real insightful masterpiece in my eyes. I look forward to reading the sequels 50 Shades Darker and 50 Shades Freed.

I am aware that some people may not agree with my opinion and that is fine, I am just explaining that as a journalist, I can see what all the fuss is about it and I am completely on board with this trilogy!

If you are a fan of the books then you're in for a real treat as the film rights have been sold and the movies are on the way. Who are they going to cast as Christian Gray? I think it should be Matt Bomer...just look at him. He's perfect for it!

Victoria V.L Walker