“Fifty Shades of Purple,” the latest novel from best-selling author Will E. Wildcat, is a knockout for those looking for something more than just gray upon gray.
I can already tell that Kansas State fans will be clamoring for a movie adaptation of “Fifty Shades of Purple.” Wildcat takes romance to a new level by exploring a complex relationship between a kindhearted soul in a college mascot costume and the football team’s biggest fan.
Navigating campus life, football games and an unnecessary amount of scenes that take place in the weight room (now we know how mascots get their muscles), “Fifty Shades of Purple” is a nuanced portrayal of life at K-State and it exposes the numerous secret desires of a college mascot.
While following the model of E. L. James, author of “Fifty Shades of Grey,” may seem like a trap that Wildcat could fall into, the author expertly avoids stereotypical character tropes by exploring what it means to hide behind a costume — literally, a giant cat costume.
This novel is a touching romantic comedy from start to finish, but Wildcat also brings heat to this novel. It gets almost as steamy as Manhattan does in the summer.
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I don’t want to spoil the sordid details for would-be readers of this novel, but know that you might want to set yourself up with a cold glass of Call Hall milk if things start to become too much for you.
While “Fifty Shades of Purple” is a must-read novel for any true K-State fan, I would be remiss if I didn’t discuss its problems.
At times, Wildcat rambles for endless pages about what it’s like for his main character to be a mascot, rather than focusing on the steamy romance blossoming at Bill Snyder Family Stadium.
Additionally, the mascot costume itself gets in the way of many of the more romantic scenes and is a clunky set piece at times rather than providing a true air of mystery.
However, these were just minor distractions for a book that I originally expected to be as bad as “A Jayhawk in Paris.” If you’re looking for a hot, saucy distraction from the end of the semester or a gift for your family this Easter Sunday, look no further than “Fifty Shades of Purple,” available in the K-State Campus Store or from online retailers.
Macy Davis is the culture editor for the Collegian and a senior in English. The views and opinions expressed in this review are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Collegian. Please send comments to opinion@kstatecollegian.com.
