Copy provided by Smart Pop via Net Galley for an honest review.3.5 StarsI think at this point we're all pretty much sick of the subject of Fifty Shades. For me, it's the negativity surrounding the trilogy and the gall of people to behave like children when it comes to this subject. I was so very tired of politely ignoring all of the people out there who used Fifty as their first foray into erotica/BDSM/or even romance and proceeded to belittle and shame anyone remotely connected to it. So when I saw this, I decided that I wasn't quite sick enough of the subject, especially when it was authors of erotica/BDSM/romance, and the like and also just a few really intelligent people. I wanted to know what their thoughts were, how they felt when they saw the series take off like it did. And I was really interested to hear some objective opinions that didn't stray into the 'evil EL James' territory.Honestly, some of this was really great and insightful stuff...not just in regards to the EL James trilogy, but to the publishing industry for erotic books. Some of these authors, while not necessarily praising James, at least give a nod to what her books did for writers of erotic literature as well as smut. I think it would be hard to argue the fact that a bit of the taboo has been lifted due to the popularity of Fifty. And I love how this shows a few professionals that show some respect for an amateur author who not only sparked a huge controversy, but opened up the reading world to public scrutiny in this manner.While there were a lot of positive comments and short kudos, there are also a few in here that aren't afraid to speak negatively. Some are very objective, they state their case in a very 'writer-ish' manner, keeping it fairly PC so as not to lose readership. While others...made me laugh my ass off, because their sarcastic little stories simply screamed of jealousy and resentment. Tasteless, not so well hidden insults to James age, appearance, and sex life...hmmm, reminds me of a few tasteless, class-less authors I've heard about lately. Oh, wait! It's the same people! I applaud the fact that there are some people who can state their reaction to this series and author without bashing the opinions of thousands upon thousands of readers...be their opinions positive or negative, in regards to the author's talent, the saleability of her books, or her intentions. I think this is a great collection for lovers or haters of this trilogy. It's more an insight into the mind of the individuals that write our guilty pleasures, written in an intelligent and enlightening manner, for the most part. If you still can't get enough Fifty, or haven't read it and wonder what the fuss is about, this could alleviate some of your curiosity...or spark some more!!!
