It seems that it would be appropriate for a best-selling novel to have a sequel. Naturally Hollywood and the publishing community at large would like to capitalize on a healthy, successful franchise; but to elect the husband of the enormously popular series to play the role of scribe is a bit unexpected.

To follow up to E.L. James’ wildly successful “Fifty Shades of Grey” book, The Hollywood Reporter informs us that E.L. James’ husband will be the new author of the script for the sequel. “Niall Leonard, who is married and has two sons with the British author, is an author himself, in addition to being a screenwriter.” Guess it’s all in the family for this brood.

The Hollywood Reporter goes on to include that Leonard himself has been a writer for British TV shows Air Force One Is Down and Wire in the Blood, among other projects. Also the author of the Crusher book series, Leonard aided in the writing of the first script for the Fifty Shades series, but was not officially credited.

From the nascent mind of E.L. James, it is no wonder that her partner would share an equally enthusiastic approach to the art of screenwriting, particularly such evocative subject matter.

Producer Michael De Luca wrote of Niall: “Niall is an outstanding writer in his own right, with multiple established credits, and we are lucky to have him join Team Fifty.” E.L. James, whose real name is Erika Leonard (as in Niall Leonard, her husband) has maintained a strong amount of creative control over her books, while working alongside Universal.

So far, the first film earned an astounding $568.8 million worldwide. Producers and the studio alike, are banking on the fact that audiences will be hungry for more shades of Grey. This time, the tale will be told with twist of male.