So, I heard about this book through the grapevine and really didn't think anything of it. Middle aged women reading a risque book. I thought, congratulations for stepping out of your shell, now go make some use of your newly found sexuality. Then a friend that I really trust told me I should read it.

Me? No. I have better books on my book list. She claimed that it had reignited her and her husband's sex life and that they had even tried some of the things in the book. Big whoop, just handcuffs right? Well I was glad they had found a way to enjoy married life.

So, naturally, the nagging got to me and I picked up the book. Imagine a young, single girl reading this book at Panera while having a salad on her lunch break. Yup, that was me.

It takes a few chapters to get into the "dirty" stuff, but it does get there. It starts out with an innocent, romance novel style, easing the reader into what is about to get a whole lot more fun than "she grasped his member". By the time it got to the good stuff, I was hooked.

The book is sexy, kinky, and very descriptive. If you get uncomfortable reading about sex, you may want to find another book or read in the privacy of your own home.

Many have criticized the book for being poorly written and not really tackling the BDSM lifestyle and responsibilities/commitments. I agree, this book isn't your classic American novel with rich plots and monologues that can be dug into. This book is exactly what you expect it to be, an erotic romance novel with kinky twists and turns. If you don't expect it to win awards, you'll be fine.

Beware: You WILL be hooked! Give yourself the time to read because you won't want to put this one down.

I think it would be fun to read it aloud with a partner and give some of the things a try like my friend did.

Try reading this with your partner and then trying some things out! Way to spice up married life!

The first book of the Fifty Shades trilogy is sexy, fun and risk-ay. It should by no means be taken as a model for all BDSM play or BDSM relationships, but rather as a fictional story just like any other love story. If you are looking for a trashy romance novel or something sexy to read with a partner, I do think this book will do the trick. If you are looking for something with a bit more substance, truth, or a professional writing style, I would recommend looking elsewhere.

Overall, I feel this book is great for a general, experimental audience. Read it with your significant other to spice things up in the bedroom.