I really hated this book.

I can't even begin to understand why this book is so widely popular. I felt no connection to any of the characters, except perhaps, Kate. She's just about the only one that saw the negative effect that Christian had on Ana and she tried to steer Ana away from him. She told him that Christian was no good for her. This is the one good character.

Christian was controlling, jealous, consuming, completely moody, and toxic. Time and time again he emphasizes how he "controls Ana" and how she "only belongs to him." He says this in a toxic and possessive way, not a protective way. She goes out with a friend and he is overcome with jealousy but then in turn he's allowed to keep in contact with ex-lovers and it's 100% allowed. I guess because he says he's "trying" that all of his abusive behaviors are overlooked.

Ana clearly states that she doesn't want him to punish her, says that she wants him to stop but she won't give him the satisfaction. She talks again and again about how this lifestyle isn't for her and that she wants nothing to do with it. She only considers it because she wants to be with this main. She puts up with pain because he enjoys it. Christian sees her as an object that he can use how and when he sees fit. Ever since she has been with him she is constantly crying.

There's so much abuse mentally/emotionally and occasionally physically (when she clearly states that she wants him to stop) that I cannot even begin to appreciate this book in any way. It sickens me that so many women overlook this and instead obsess over how perfect Christian Grey is. I think it's a terrible book for women to be reading. You shouldn't be in a relationship that makes you afraid or uncomfortable. You shouldn't be in a relationship with someone that is constantly controlling you and showing possession of you.

If I could rate lower than 1 star, I would.. but 1 is the lowest I can go.