Exit to Eden


Exit to Eden is a 1985 novel by Anne Rice, initially published under the pen name Anne Rampling, but subsequently under Rice's name.
The novel explores the subject of BDSM in romance novel form. The novel also brought attention to Rice's published works that differed from the type of writing she was better known for, such as her Sleeping Beauty series under yet another pen name. Additionally, a film adaptation in 1994 differed greatly from the book, with a new major storyline and several new characters added.
Each chapter in the novel is narrated in the first-person by either Lisa or Elliot; the narrator is announced at the head of each chapter.

Plot summary

Lisa Kelly manages an isolated BDSM resort called The Club that offers its high-end clients an exclusive setting in which they can experience the life of a Master or Mistress. Prospective submissive slaves, paid at the end of their term at Eden, are presented at auctions by the most respected Trainers from across the world. As Head Female Trainer and co-founder Lisa gets the first pick of the new slaves and chooses Elliot Slater—with whom she shares immediate and undeniable chemistry that intensifies throughout their time together, eventually resulting in love.

Film adaptation

A film version, Exit to Eden, was produced by Savoy Pictures in 1994, starring Dana Delany and Paul Mercurio in the roles of Lisa and Elliot. However, the film was heavily rewritten by the studio as a buddy-cop comedy, using new characters played by Dan Aykroyd and Rosie O'Donnell. The film was almost universally panned by critics.