Fifty Shades Freed

In the last installment of this trilogy, the intensity and chemistry stay strong. Once again, although there is sex and more sex, the strength of this book lies in the underlying theme of unconditional love and the strong relationship between Christian and Anastasia. It is terrific to learn the outcome, but also slightly sad as now there is no more of this beguiling and totally addictive couple. As their journey continues, Ana and Christian continue to grow - Ana standing firm against Christian and Christian with his inimitable, totally sexy style, trusting more and controlling less. As the drama rolls forward, be prepared to shed a few tears, as there are some very poignant moments. In short a fantastic finale with a satisfying end that leaves no loose ends but does leave the reader wanting more. Recommended for those who like character-driven novels and well-plotted stories. Beware, very descriptive sexual scenes.

Vintage - 592 pages - April 17, 2012 - ISBN: 0345803507

When unworldly student Anastasia Steele first encountered the driven and dazzling young entrepreneur Christian Grey it sparked a sensual affair that changed both of their lives irrevocably. Shocked, intrigued, and, ultimately, repelled by Christian's singular erotic tastes, Ana demands a deeper commitment. Determined to keep her, Christian agrees.

Now, Ana and Christian have it all - love, passion, intimacy, wealth, and a world of possibilities for their future. But Ana knows that loving her Fifty Shades will not be easy, and that being together will pose challenges that neither of them would anticipate. Ana must somehow learn to share Christian's opulent lifestyle without sacrificing her own identity. And Christian must overcome his compulsion to control as he wrestles with the demons of a tormented past.

Just when it seems that their strength together will eclipse any obstacle, misfortune, malice, and fate conspire to make Ana's deepest fears turn to reality.

1. Anastasia makes many references to the fact that she has to get used to being wealthy and does not seem to readily accept Christian's money as hers. What do you think her reasons are for this? Given the same circumstances how do you think you would react? Discuss the cultural implications of wealth.

2. In many ways this is a typical love story with the typical dance of getting to know the other person and bridging the gap between differences. Discuss the sacrifices made by Christian and Anastasia. Do you feel they sacrificed equally? Did love change one more than the other? What fears do you think they harbored?

3. Discuss the character flaws of Christian, especially in relation to his background. Do you think he was too damaged to love and trust? Why do you think he was so controlling and jealous? Do you think he tries to push or manipulate her? Why or why not?

4. Discuss the role "Mrs. Robinson" played in his life and his need for her. He makes many references to the fact that she saved him - why do you think he feels this way? How do you think his life would be different without her? Why do you think she has difficulty letting go of her relationship with Christian?

5. Christian also makes many references to the crack whore who was his mother. His exposure to her was brief but very potent and lasting. Discuss her impact on him and how she contributes, if at all, to his need for control, his inability to trust and his issues with keeping Anastasia safe.

6. Where did all of Christian's anger come from? Do you think Anastasia provoked him deliberately?

7. Discuss the balance of power between Anastasia and Christian. Did Christian's wealth play into this? Why do you think Christian so willingly gave his money to Anastasia; always emphasizing everything he had was now hers? Did this shift the balance of power? What was the source of Anastasia's power?

8. What was your feeling about the portrayal of women in this book? Discuss the significance of Christian's actions toward his previous subs? Discuss Anastasia's strength and its impact on Christian.

9. Do you think the book is making a statement about any larger issues? In what ways does the book explore honesty or deception?

10. What was it about Anastasia that was different from Christian's other subs? Why do you think he fell in love with her? What do you think the novel suggests about the different types of love - romantic love, family love?

As with the other two books in this trilogy this one is about love, forgiveness, trust, compromise and how the past haunts and shapes the future. It is also about setting boundaries and learning to trust. E. L. James continues to draw the reader in with strong character development and solid plotting. This is not a stand-alone book and the trilogy should be read in order.