What happens when you crossover one of the most popular novel of all time and the current hottest selling item in the publishing industry? That's right, you'll get Fifty Shades of Mr Darcy of course. As I did not get the chance to read the Fifty Shades trilogy yet nor do I plan to though I know how the story goes, please note that my review may come across as slightly bias against E. L. James's erotic best-seller and by extension this mash-up fiction.
In this parody of Pride and Prejudice, readers are transported into the world of Jane Austen's Regency period with a twist. Unlike the polite society manners from the original classic, the characters undergo a complete transformation more suited to modern times. Elizabeth Bennet embody some characteristics of Anastasia Steele where she is depicted as innocent and naive of the ways of the world. Fitzwilliam Darcy is more like the rich billionaire Christian Grey who indulges in kinky sex and has a filthy mind. No, he is definitely not the gentleman that Jane Austen pictured in her novel.
The story more or less follow the important plots of Pride and Prejudice and at times pokes fun at the reader and the current publishing climate. Even Mrs Bennet is not spared and is obsessed in getting her daughters laid rather than worrying about their marriage prospects. Mr Bennet does not figure much in the story nor does Kitty. Mr Whackem (Wickham) is not quite a wicked villain but nevertheless he did lead young ladies astray with the promise of work in his publishing firm. He successfully turn Lydia's head who now aspires to be a feminist and modern business executive. Phil Collins of Genesis band also make a cameo appearance as singer turned vicar to Lady Catherine de Burgh. Lady Catherine is still the domineering character we love to hate but she is given a complete makeover. She is a leather-clad dominatrix and the reason why Mr Darcy was pulled into the world of BDSM in the first place.
Full of sexual innuendos, double entrendres, crude and vulgar language, the book does not take itself seriously and certain parts can be quite confusing and does not make sense. However there are some hilarious scenes that I laughed at such as Lizzy's inner monologue where she converses with her subconscious and 'inner slapper' and keep us entertained on her real thoughts. What I dislike most is the portrayal of Lady Catherine and the way she treats Mr Darcy as her sex slave.
In conclusion, if you like satire and have read Fifty Shades of Grey you might want to give it a try. You may not look at household appliances in the same way again. Jane Austen purists and those who do not have the fortitude to stomach this over-the-top and silly parody should avoid it at all costs. Finally, be prepared to be blown away about what the shades referenced in the title represent as it is not what it seems.
Oh my goodness! Can't say that I'll read it, but I appreciate knowing what the book is like.
ReplyDeleteThanks!