Who knew my first post would be on this book. I've finished about 70% of the first book having purchased it despite the poor reviews from other customers and the reception/criticism it received from various newspapers. I simply had to find out why this book was creating such a buzz.
The only thing I can fathom for the success of this series is the BDSM aspect of it (or excellent marketing strategies). As mentioned before by other readers, the main protagonist is not a character that one can easily identify with and honestly, not a very likable creature. The male, an unbelievable hero as a 27 year old billionaire who's a proficient pilot, feeding the hungry, 'control freak', dominating man.
The writing is juvenile and at times, painful (no pun intended to the BDSM aspect). While I intend to complete the first book, I've no intention of purchasing the second and third of the series. This is one of the few books I've had to choke down, typically I devour a story, completely immerse myself in the world the author creates. I adore finding a good storyteller, a wordsmith, someone who has the talent to build worlds so colorful that you live the story. You will not find that with E.L. James. Sorry.
Don't get me wrong, I'm a fan of erotica, I'm a fan of BDSM. Shades of Grey may be a good choice who's unfamiliar with both, however, I'd not recommend it.