Fifty Shades of Mr Darcy - William Codpiece Thwakery

Yes, this is a book than exists. It is a parody of both Fifty Shades of Grey and Pride and Prejudice and describes itself as 'for people who love Pride and Prejudice and hate Fifty Shades of Grey.' As I fit both of those categories and I could use a bit of a giggle, I gave it a go.

This is usually the part of the review where I give a basic plot outline. I don't know if I really need to do it for this book. It's exactly what you think it is. An entertaining device is that it continues to break the fourth wall, mentioning things from Shades that wouldn't be around during the 1820s and then laughing at itself. 

Also, Mr. Collins is Phil Collins. And they have him quote his own songs repeatedly. It is much funnier than it should be.

As it is a parody novel, it does try a bit hard at times, making jokes out of nothing and doing its best to remain funny. However, it has some great material to work with and the juxtaposition of a horribly written pretty vulgar novel with the ultimate in manners and subtlety makes for some great lines. 

"Mr Darcy had made no protestations of love. In fact, he had made his intentions plain from the outset. 'I do not make love, Miss Bennet,' he had told her. 'I bonk. I have it off. I get my end away. I roger. I boff.'"

"Mr Bennet, you will, of course, be paying a visit to Mr Bingley when he comes into the neighborhood.'

Mr Bennet raised his eyes at last. 'If he shoots, plays pool or has a shed, I shall. If he is one of those newfangled metrosexuals, I shall not.'"

"Mr Darcy stared at her for a long moment. His brow creased, and his expression was pained, as if he was torn between two choices - a cheese sandwich vs tuna mayo, maybe, or between pride and desire.

All of a sudden, he stood and gave a curt bow.

'Laters, Baby,' he said stiffly, and turned upon his heel."

It's silly and short but good fun if you're in the mood for some laughs. If any of those quotes had you giggling, you should pick it up.