Shadow Souls (Vampire Diaries: The Return Series #2)

by L. J. Smith

Overview

New York Times bestselling series

The Return: Shadow Souls is the sixth book in L.J. Smith’s New York Times bestselling Vampire Diaries series.

Elena Gilbert is once again at the center of magic and danger beyond her imagining. And this time, Stefan isn’t there to help. Stefan is held prisoner in the Dark Dimension—a world where vampires and demons roam free, and where humans are at the command of their supernatural betters. To save the man she loves, Elena is forced to trust her life to his handsome, but deadly brother Damon. Damon has never concealed his love for Elena, and as the tension between them rises, Elena must face a terrible decision: which brother does she really want to be with?

The Return: Shadow Souls is perfect for fans of the hit CW TV show The Vampire Diaries, as well as fans of the original New York Times bestselling series who can’t wait to see what happens next with Elena, Stefan, and Damon.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780061720819
Publisher:	HarperCollins
Publication date:	03/16/2010
Series:	Vampire Diaries
Pages:	599
Product dimensions:	5.40(w) x 8.30(h) x 2.00(d)
Lexile:	860L (what's this?)
Age Range:	14 - 17 Years

About the Author

L. J. Smith has written over two dozen books for young adults, including The Vampire Diaries, now a hit TV show. She has also written the bestselling Night World series and The Forbidden Game, as well as the #1 New York Times bestselling Dark Visions. She loves to walk the trails and beaches in Point Reyes, California, daydreaming about her latest book.

Editorial Reviews

Gr 9 Up—This second installment in a "Vampire Diaries" subseries picks up exactly where Nightfall (HarperTeen, 2009) left off. The evil kitsune twins, Shinichi and Misao, have descended on Fell's Church and inflicted pain and suffering on the community. Even the mighty Damon was tricked into helping them kidnap Stefan and imprison him in the "Dark Dimension." Damon regrets being involved in his brother's demise and agrees to take Elena with him to rescue Stefan from his hellish prison. This trip isn't easy and the riddlelike clues are twisted and confusing. They are joined by Meredith and Bonnie and enter the "Dark Dimension," a place where humans are the slaves of vampires, demons, and kitsunes. Allying themselves with all sorts of characters, they must find Stefan, launch a rescue mission, and somehow get themselves back to Fell's Church. Smith's tale lacks the intrigue and appeal of the original series. The plot is disjointed and confusing, making certain parts slow and difficult to follow. The most promising development is between Elena and Damon. Damon shows his vulnerability by revealing to Elena the true depth of his feelings for her. As they become closer, Elena must come to terms with her feeling for both brothers and where her love truly lies. Purchase where Smith has a fan base.—Donna Rosenblum, Floral Park Memorial High School, NY

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