The Claiming of Sleeping Beauty - book discontinued by Audioworks - review by Experiment

This book was written by none other than the famous Anne Rice who first published the book under the pseudonym A.N. Rocquilere. This was her first step into outright erotica, though you'd never know it from the skill and mastery she presents on every page. For those who aren't fans of the recent rise in popularity of vampires, they need have no worry. Here, Rice abandons her usual vampire themes and instead offers an original take on a classical tale. While she may have left the vampires at home, Rice still manages to bring her unique and effective writing style to this erotic trope.

In this novel, Rice takes the classic story of Sleeping Beauty and sets it in an erotic foreground. Rather than waking up from a kiss, she is awakened through penetration from a handsome prince. As a reward for his heroic saving of the kingdom, Beauty is taken as a "slave" by the Prince to his own kingdom.

The first way in which I believe this book is superior to something like 50 Shades of Grey is that it has a much more accurate view of sadomasochistic relationships. In this novel, there are clear boundaries and limitations. It is explained early in the novel that the "slaves" cannot experience any real harm; nothing that is done to them can be permanent or draw blood. They are also only kept for a certain amount of time before being released back to their homes. Because of that, I think the novel will appeal more to people who are into sadomasochism.

As Beauty is taken to this kingdom, she is introduced to all sorts of sexual activities and fetishes.

The cover of the novel that is pictured on the site is not the cover of the book that I received. I received a reprint of the novel that has been given an updated cover. I think it's actually an improvement. Rather than featuring a topless woman, the cover now simply features white sheets with a black background. The most illicit thing about the cover is the pink lettering of "50 Shades of Grey."

I absolutely love this novel and can't wait to devour the next 2 in the series. Where Rice excels is that she manages to balance really erotic scenes with just enough plot to keep you wanting to read on.