Darker: Fifty Shades Darker as Told by Christian  Darker: Fifty Shades Darker As Told by Christian, also referred to as Darker, is a 2017 erotic romance by British author, E. L. James. It is the fifth installment in the "Fifty Shades" novel series. The books were originally told by Anastasia Steele, the main protagonist, whereas "Darker: Fifty Shades Darker as Told by Christian" is told from the male character's point of view of the events of the second installment, "Fifty Shades Darker". The novel was released on 28 November 2017. After breaking up in "Fifty Shades of Grey", billionaire Christian Grey attempts to win back his lover, Anastasia Steele, after he punished her. Initially reluctant to resume the relationship, she only agrees under her own terms. As their relationship progresses, Christian's past and Anastasia's boss, Jack Hyde, threaten the couple. James announced that she was in the process of writing the novel on 10 September 2016.