New York (AFP) - He is the object of desire for millions of women the world over. And now Christian Grey, the enigmatic hero of best-selling erotic novels "Fifty Shades of Grey," is getting a sequel of his own.
Author EL James said Monday that she is publishing a new version of her sexually explicit novel, this time written from the point of view of the business tycoon and not temptress Anastasia Steele.
The new book, entitled "Grey: Fifty Shades of Grey as Told by Christian," will be published on June 18, the fictional character's birthday, the author announced on her website.
James said she has dedicated the book to the thousands of readers "who asked... and asked... and asked for this."
James's trilogy of books in the "Fifty Shades" series sold more than 125 million copies all over the world and was translated into more than 50 languages.
It has also spawned mega bucks at the box office.
In February, the first of the books was adapted into a Hollywood movie starring Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson scored the biggest box office opening of the month ever, and two follow-up films are scheduled for release in time for Valentine's Day in 2017 and 2018.
"Christian is a complex character," wrote James on her website, "and readers have always been fascinated by his desires and motivations, and his troubled past. Also, as anyone who has ever been in a relationship knows, there are two sides to every story."
The author says Christian is a man who exercises control in all aspects of his life. His world is neat, disciplined, and empty -- until the moment that Steele stumbles into his office.
"What is it about her that captivates him? Why can't he forget her? He is swept up in a storm of emotion he cannot comprehend and cannot resist," James wrote.
The new book will be published simultaneously by Vintage in the United States and Penguin Random House in Britain on June 18.
James's editor at Vintage Books said she was "incredibly excited."
"Fifty Shades of Grey is a love story that has enthralled readers in a way that few books have," said Anne Messitte.
"I can't wait for Fifty Shades fans to experience the work again from a perspective they have long desired," she added.
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