A copy of the upcoming “Fifty Shades of Grey” sequel has been stolen, just over a week before publication day, publisher Penguin Random House said Wednesday.
The publisher said Kent Police in southern England are investigating the theft of a finished copy of E.L. James’ new book, “Grey.” It said it could not comment further because a police investigation is underway.
Kent Police confirmed that “officers are making inquiries after receiving a report that a book had been stolen” on Monday.
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The erotic “Fifty Shades” trilogy has sold more than 125 million copies, and a movie released this year has grossed more than $500 million worldwide.
The first three books followed the romance between S&M-loving young billionaire Christian Grey and college student Anastasia Steele.
“Grey,” the fourth in the series, tells the story from Christian’s point of view.
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Penguin Random House said “Grey” would be published as planned on June 18, Christian Grey’s birthday.
Piracy can be a major headache for publishers of best-selling books. In 2005, thieves stole copies of the much-anticipated “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” from a warehouse north of London and tried to sell them to tabloid newspapers.
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