Book Review for: Fifty Shades Freed
Written by: EL James
Vintage Books
ISBN: 978-0-345-80350-4
Avail: print and ebook
3.5 Stars
James pens an engaging story that proves happiness is
something to fight for with "Fifty Shades Freed." Anastasia marries
Christian, but immediately finds his lifestyle uncomfortable. Complicating
matters is Jack Hyde's pursuit to ruin Christian's life. Despite mounting
problems, can Ana and Christian stay together, or will they be torn apart for
good?
The story starts with Ana and Christian on their honeymoon. Security
is heightened due to Jack Hyde being free. When the couple comes home, they
face increasing challenges – Ana's wanting to retain her sense of individuality
and worth, Hyde's capture then escape, and Ray's accident. As the challenges
mount, will the stress tear the couple apart?
James' style is easy to read, though the novel is written in
the first person, present tense. While I'm used to the style now, there are
times when it slows down the storytelling.
James' strength is character development. Christian's
journey will tug on the reader's heartstrings as he struggles with self-worth
and insecurity. Ana is steadfast and the one constant in his life that offers
hope.
While several events occur that are meant to be challenges
to the characters' change of relationship, they felt contrived and forced,
including the events surrounding Jack. The plot isn't as fluid as in previous
books, but the character growth proved compelling and worth the read.
The novel is intended for mature readers with sexually
charged erotic scenes. Overall, "Fifty Shades Freed" is a satisfying conclusion
to the series.
Author EL James' Website: http://www.eljamesauthor.com
