A copy of the newest addition to the “Fifty Shades of Grey” series has been reported missing just days before its scheduled worldwide release by publishing company Penguin Random House, The Independent reports.
The new novel, entitled “Grey,” currently sits at number one on the Barnes and Noble bestsellers list. While the book has announced a June 18 release date, there is a possibility that the book will find its way online beforehand.
The latest installment delves more into Christian Grey’s past. E.L. James announced the book’s release date on June 1 on Instagram.
“Fifty Shades” has sold more than 125 million copies worldwide. At the height of its popularity, the novel was being sold at one copy per second around the world, according to The International Business Times.
Penguin Random House declined to comment on the ongoing investigation, according to The Independent. Some saw the incident as a publicity stunt.
The scenario is eerily reminiscent to the leak of the last Harry Potter book in 2007, when bloggers leaked spoilers of the final installment just days before its official release.