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Elite of Elmwood #5
Unchained: The Dorms
Ainsley
Grayson Edwards is my best friend’s brother and so off-limits. There are a hundred reasons why we don’t make sense.
Not my type.
Moody AF.
Popular.
He’s bad.
During the day, it all seems so clear, but at night…my dreams paint a different picture.
He’s so damn serious, and I don’t care about anything except getting out of Elmwood until I get an unsettling text. The closer I get to Grayson, the more threatening they become.
Grayson
Ainsley Fischer’s the worst kind of temptation. She’s my sister’s best friend and the complete opposite of the girls I date.
Outspoken.
Cute and nerdy.
Dark.
She’s bad.
I shouldn’t have noticed her, and I could have stayed away if it wasn’t for that stupid kiss. Why the f*ck did I kiss her? But the more that I’m around her, the less I want to fight the urge to possess her.
She might have the key to unlock the chains I keep tight around my heart, but can she handle who I really am?
Trigger sexual assault, violence, addiction, drugs, drinking, swearing.
Grayson Edwards is my best friend’s brother and so off-limits. There are a hundred reasons why we don’t make sense.
Not my type.
Moody AF.
Popular.
He’s bad.
During the day, it all seems so clear, but at night…my dreams paint a different picture.
He’s so damn serious, and I don’t care about anything except getting out of Elmwood until I get an unsettling text. The closer I get to Grayson, the more threatening they become.
Grayson
Ainsley Fischer’s the worst kind of temptation. She’s my sister’s best friend and the complete opposite of the girls I date.
Outspoken.
Cute and nerdy.
Dark.
She’s bad.
I shouldn’t have noticed her, and I could have stayed away if it wasn’t for that stupid kiss. Why the f*ck did I kiss her? But the more that I’m around her, the less I want to fight the urge to possess her.
She might have the key to unlock the chains I keep tight around my heart, but can she handle who I really am?
Trigger sexual assault, violence, addiction, drugs, drinking, swearing.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 2, 2023
255 people are currently reading
490 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Weil
100 books1,713 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling author J.L. Weil lives in Illinois where she writes Teen & New Adult Paranormal Romances about spunky, smart mouth girls who always wind up in dire situations. For every sassy girl, there is an equally mouthwatering, overprotective guy. Of course, there is lots of kissing. And stuff.
An admitted addict to Love Pink clothes, raspberry mochas from Starbucks, and Jensen Ackles. She loves gushing about books and Supernatural with her readers.
She is the author of the International Bestselling Raven & Divisa series.
www.jlweil.com
An admitted addict to Love Pink clothes, raspberry mochas from Starbucks, and Jensen Ackles. She loves gushing about books and Supernatural with her readers.
She is the author of the International Bestselling Raven & Divisa series.
www.jlweil.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
November 12, 2024
This one defiantly went back to the roots and omg I loved it
Ainsley and greyson have some serious chemistry and issues that they both needed to get past. Hopefully the elite can protect everyone from what’s going on with Weston
Ainsley and greyson have some serious chemistry and issues that they both needed to get past. Hopefully the elite can protect everyone from what’s going on with Weston
December 26, 2023
read in 2 hours lol
I need more already can’t get enough of this series. Picked it up by accident but so glad I did.
I need more already can’t get enough of this series. Picked it up by accident but so glad I did.
June 5, 2023
so so good
I’ve been invested in this series since book 1 and I won’t lie when I say that I was chomping at the bit for Grayson’s story.
I wanted to be able to dig into his thoughts to really get to know him and his character. He may be quiet and dangerous but his inner monologue shows so much more. He cares for those around him but he doesn’t let himself bring down that wall. What he doesn’t realize is that Ainsley has been chipping away at him since they met.
Ainsley, I’ve loved her character throughout these books. She is such a great friend to Josie and I’ve loved seeing their relationship. Even in this book, the love between all of them is so clear. When things go sideways ( and 5 books in.. you knowwww the drama is coming), they all drop everything to see how they can help and protect.
Ainsley is staying with Josie and her family during Christmas vacation after she doesn’t get the warmest greeting from her own parents. The push and pull with Grayson just gets worse due to the forced proximity. After making it out of a very stressful situation, they give into those emotions after agreeing to a one time thing. We all know it doesn’t stop after that one night.
Along their love story there is the mystery of who is coming after the Elite again. There are threats, close calls, and pretty stressful movements that will keep you clutching your kindle and unable to stop until you get the answers.
I’ve been invested in this series since book 1 and I won’t lie when I say that I was chomping at the bit for Grayson’s story.
I wanted to be able to dig into his thoughts to really get to know him and his character. He may be quiet and dangerous but his inner monologue shows so much more. He cares for those around him but he doesn’t let himself bring down that wall. What he doesn’t realize is that Ainsley has been chipping away at him since they met.
Ainsley, I’ve loved her character throughout these books. She is such a great friend to Josie and I’ve loved seeing their relationship. Even in this book, the love between all of them is so clear. When things go sideways ( and 5 books in.. you knowwww the drama is coming), they all drop everything to see how they can help and protect.
Ainsley is staying with Josie and her family during Christmas vacation after she doesn’t get the warmest greeting from her own parents. The push and pull with Grayson just gets worse due to the forced proximity. After making it out of a very stressful situation, they give into those emotions after agreeing to a one time thing. We all know it doesn’t stop after that one night.
Along their love story there is the mystery of who is coming after the Elite again. There are threats, close calls, and pretty stressful movements that will keep you clutching your kindle and unable to stop until you get the answers.
May 25, 2023
Unchained by J.L. Weil is an absolute delight! Returning to the captivating world of the Elite was an exhilarating experience. From start to finish, I found myself completely engrossed in the lives of the characters and their thrilling adventures.
Grayson and Ainsely make for an irresistible couple. Their chemistry is palpable, and their interactions are filled with warmth, humour, and undeniable charm. Ainsely's feisty and sassy nature adds an extra layer of excitement to the story, perfectly complementing Grayson's broody exterior whilst having a caring and protective persona. I couldn't help but root for their love to conquer all obstacles.
Jennifer's exceptional storytelling skills shine through in Unchained. The intricate details, vibrant descriptions, and well-developed characters bring the story to life, leaving you longing for more.
While the journey of Grayson and Ainsely is filled with its fair share of drama, it only adds to the excitement and keeps the pages turning at a rapid pace. The pacing of the plot is excellent, ensuring a thrilling and enjoyable read from beginning to end.
J.L. Weil's talent as a writer is undeniable, and I highly recommend this book to anyone who craves a fun, fast-paced read that will keep you eagerly turning the pages. Get ready to be captivated by Elite's world once again!
Grayson and Ainsely make for an irresistible couple. Their chemistry is palpable, and their interactions are filled with warmth, humour, and undeniable charm. Ainsely's feisty and sassy nature adds an extra layer of excitement to the story, perfectly complementing Grayson's broody exterior whilst having a caring and protective persona. I couldn't help but root for their love to conquer all obstacles.
Jennifer's exceptional storytelling skills shine through in Unchained. The intricate details, vibrant descriptions, and well-developed characters bring the story to life, leaving you longing for more.
While the journey of Grayson and Ainsely is filled with its fair share of drama, it only adds to the excitement and keeps the pages turning at a rapid pace. The pacing of the plot is excellent, ensuring a thrilling and enjoyable read from beginning to end.
J.L. Weil's talent as a writer is undeniable, and I highly recommend this book to anyone who craves a fun, fast-paced read that will keep you eagerly turning the pages. Get ready to be captivated by Elite's world once again!
June 18, 2025
I am not okay after this book. Obsessed doesn’t even begin to cover it—this elite group has me in a chokehold, and I’m not asking to be released. The writing? Unexplainably amazing. The way the author wove together mystery, suspense, and heart-pounding emotion? Literal perfection.
Now let’s talk Grayson and Ainsley—the surprise of the series. They are everything. The angst, the sexual tension, the way I couldn’t sit still whenever they shared a scene? SPIC. Ainsley the quiet, unsung hero in her own life, was sensational in this read. I loved every moment of her finally getting the softness and love she so deserves—even in the middle of chaos. And Grayson… that boy?? STOP. His internal struggle, his protectiveness, his back-and-forth spiral into love—I ate up every bit of it. The man became her peace, her safety net, and I will never recover.
And these four men?? I say Brock is my day-one ride or die, but then Micah walks in, then Grayson… and I know Fynn is coming for my soul next. When will the pain end? Goodwillingly, NEVER. This series has officially claimed a permanent spot on my favorites shelf. 10/10 would lose my mind over it again.
Spoiler: that surprise intermixed within that storyline—Do I dare hope second generation coming?
Now let’s talk Grayson and Ainsley—the surprise of the series. They are everything. The angst, the sexual tension, the way I couldn’t sit still whenever they shared a scene? SPIC. Ainsley the quiet, unsung hero in her own life, was sensational in this read. I loved every moment of her finally getting the softness and love she so deserves—even in the middle of chaos. And Grayson… that boy?? STOP. His internal struggle, his protectiveness, his back-and-forth spiral into love—I ate up every bit of it. The man became her peace, her safety net, and I will never recover.
And these four men?? I say Brock is my day-one ride or die, but then Micah walks in, then Grayson… and I know Fynn is coming for my soul next. When will the pain end? Goodwillingly, NEVER. This series has officially claimed a permanent spot on my favorites shelf. 10/10 would lose my mind over it again.
Spoiler: that surprise intermixed within that storyline—Do I dare hope second generation coming?
August 17, 2023
okay so everyone knows that I love the grumpy ones almost as much as I love the jokesters in the group and since I loved Micha's book I figured I'd be just as obsessed with Greyson's.
While I still love my Greyson baby I feel like nothing was really added to his story. Somehow the story went entirely too fast and too slow at the same time. I wanted to know a little more about Greyson and Ainsley's past and see how they developed feelings over time rather than over winter break.
The suspense in this book was also not on the same level as the past elmwood books and it kinda just felt like we were rushing through these two.
nonetheless, i love this little world and we'll see how things end up in the next book
*also I still can't get over how much they refer to themselves as "The Elite"* *instant ick*
ALSO (spoiler warning)
While I do get a kick out of pregnancy tropes this is NOT the way I like them being handled (seriously it's really out of place).
While I still love my Greyson baby I feel like nothing was really added to his story. Somehow the story went entirely too fast and too slow at the same time. I wanted to know a little more about Greyson and Ainsley's past and see how they developed feelings over time rather than over winter break.
The suspense in this book was also not on the same level as the past elmwood books and it kinda just felt like we were rushing through these two.
nonetheless, i love this little world and we'll see how things end up in the next book
*also I still can't get over how much they refer to themselves as "The Elite"* *instant ick*
ALSO (spoiler warning)
While I do get a kick out of pregnancy tropes this is NOT the way I like them being handled (seriously it's really out of place).
June 10, 2023
I was very interested to see how this one was going to go seeing as they all seem to be coupling up.
I like grayson as a character, I do just wish we could more of his back story, I still feel like we don't completely know who he is and what he has been through.
Ainsley has always been a favourite of mine as well, it was cute to see these two come together. I do think we got to see so much more of her story and how much her relationship with Josie means so much to her.
This one had a lot of twists and turns but did feel very slow and very much unfinished which is why I rated it like this.
I just need more of this world and can't wait for what is next!
I like grayson as a character, I do just wish we could more of his back story, I still feel like we don't completely know who he is and what he has been through.
Ainsley has always been a favourite of mine as well, it was cute to see these two come together. I do think we got to see so much more of her story and how much her relationship with Josie means so much to her.
This one had a lot of twists and turns but did feel very slow and very much unfinished which is why I rated it like this.
I just need more of this world and can't wait for what is next!
July 18, 2023
Hello Grayson
I think this is my favorite story of the dorm series. Maybe he has something to do with you know surprise and towards the end but oh my God these two are just perfect for each other. All the crap they go through oh it is so worth it. This whole group of friends is like one big happy family with the support system that is uncanny. When you have a stalker on your heel watching your every move threatening you and everything else in mind God this book keeps you on your toes and you want to finish it like really quickly. This is my number one out of all the guys and Grayson fired
I think this is my favorite story of the dorm series. Maybe he has something to do with you know surprise and towards the end but oh my God these two are just perfect for each other. All the crap they go through oh it is so worth it. This whole group of friends is like one big happy family with the support system that is uncanny. When you have a stalker on your heel watching your every move threatening you and everything else in mind God this book keeps you on your toes and you want to finish it like really quickly. This is my number one out of all the guys and Grayson fired
June 8, 2023
Very interesting story
Ainsley is Josie's best friend, and Grayson is Josie's brother. They are opposites, or so they thought. The Elite has and will continue to be targets in this series. Only now, others are in real danger. Grayson doesn't think when gunshots ring out. He grabs Ainsley to save her life.
This is book 5 and the action is no less than in the first book. The characters are sex crazed youngsters, who know who they are and what they want. Well....all except Grayson and Ainsley
Love happens.
Read on my friends
Ainsley is Josie's best friend, and Grayson is Josie's brother. They are opposites, or so they thought. The Elite has and will continue to be targets in this series. Only now, others are in real danger. Grayson doesn't think when gunshots ring out. He grabs Ainsley to save her life.
This is book 5 and the action is no less than in the first book. The characters are sex crazed youngsters, who know who they are and what they want. Well....all except Grayson and Ainsley
Love happens.
Read on my friends
June 5, 2023
Unchained ❤
I loved how this storyline played out. Ainsley and Grayson are strong characters on there own, but put them together and they are dynamite. There chemistry is explosive and there tempers and stubbornness to match. These two had a crazy ride and a few bumps along there way. This was dramatic, traumatic, suspenseful, passionate and dangerous. A brilliant read and I can not wait for the next in the series and to read more from the Elite and the crew.
I loved how this storyline played out. Ainsley and Grayson are strong characters on there own, but put them together and they are dynamite. There chemistry is explosive and there tempers and stubbornness to match. These two had a crazy ride and a few bumps along there way. This was dramatic, traumatic, suspenseful, passionate and dangerous. A brilliant read and I can not wait for the next in the series and to read more from the Elite and the crew.
June 28, 2023
Only 1 thing missing.....
Let's start off I LOVED this addition. I've wanted their book for awhile and it was worth the wait. It was fun and exciting and I finished it super fast. The only thing I would have liked was a bit more of a refresher into the Sterling story. It had been awhile since I read Micah's book and I couldn't fully remember the villain from his book and what all had happened. Other than that, it was a great read!
Let's start off I LOVED this addition. I've wanted their book for awhile and it was worth the wait. It was fun and exciting and I finished it super fast. The only thing I would have liked was a bit more of a refresher into the Sterling story. It had been awhile since I read Micah's book and I couldn't fully remember the villain from his book and what all had happened. Other than that, it was a great read!
January 11, 2024
Grayson was everything I wanted and more. Ainsley is my soul sister I love her quirkiness and attitude. Together they are chef's kiss. I was wondering when we would see more of crazy Kate and the book didn't disappoint. Some parts were slightly predictable but didn't make the book any less enjoyable. I can't wait for Kenna and Fynn but also don't want the series to end I love the elite crew too much.
June 3, 2023
Grayson and Ainsley
I loved the story. But there was definitely some confusion with timelines. Like Ainsley would say a few days ago, then Grayson would say last night. I was definitely getting confused about how much time had passed. Also, we never heard what gift he bought her. The story felt a bit rushed.
I loved the story. But there was definitely some confusion with timelines. Like Ainsley would say a few days ago, then Grayson would say last night. I was definitely getting confused about how much time had passed. Also, we never heard what gift he bought her. The story felt a bit rushed.
June 8, 2023
Grayson and Ainsley have an interesting relationship. There are many twists and turns in this story that keep you reading and I really enjoyed it, but I am more looking forward to Finn's book. I know the author had issues with this book and I guess that is why I wasn't as engaged with it as I was with the others. Hopefully the next book will be better.
June 9, 2023
Continuing with the series of the elite
Ainsley is Jodie’s best friend and Grayson is her brother both denied feelings for each other but can let help the attraction to each other.
In true elite style there is a threat to them but again they overcome it with twists and turns.
Another brilliant book in the series highly recommend reading this book you won’t be disappointed
Ainsley is Jodie’s best friend and Grayson is her brother both denied feelings for each other but can let help the attraction to each other.
In true elite style there is a threat to them but again they overcome it with twists and turns.
Another brilliant book in the series highly recommend reading this book you won’t be disappointed
June 9, 2023
I absolutely enjoyed revisiting the Elmwood Academy. I loved the chemistry between Grayson and Ainsley. Ainsley is bold, lively no pushover. She has spark and touches of humor that compliments Graysons tough and protective personality nicely. Such an exciting and interesting story with plenty of mystery and lots of turns that just keep you throughly engaged and on the edge of your seat.
June 18, 2023
This is book 5 in the Elite of Elmwood Academy series and is about Grayson and Ainsley. Ainsley is Josie's best friend, and Grayson is Josie's brother. These two had a crazy ride and a few bumps along there way. Filled with mystery, action, chemistry, twists and turns. I cannot wait for the next book.
June 4, 2023
quick read
I haven’t read the others in the series due to some triggers but I just finished unchained and I enjoyed it. Fast paced, some action and a mystery. Makes me think the others would be worth a read.
I haven’t read the others in the series due to some triggers but I just finished unchained and I enjoyed it. Fast paced, some action and a mystery. Makes me think the others would be worth a read.
June 10, 2023
Ainsley and Grayson
The push and pull is great with these two. Neither plan to catch feelings for one another, but that’s how it goes. Add a stalker in the mix, some drama and you have a perfect storyline.
The push and pull is great with these two. Neither plan to catch feelings for one another, but that’s how it goes. Add a stalker in the mix, some drama and you have a perfect storyline.
June 11, 2023
The best friend brother troupe
I love me a best friends brother troupe. Ainsely and Grayson were electric. The chemistry was off the charts.
If you love a mystery, love and enemies to lovers dark romance this is the book for you.
I love me a best friends brother troupe. Ainsely and Grayson were electric. The chemistry was off the charts.
If you love a mystery, love and enemies to lovers dark romance this is the book for you.
June 25, 2023
Have been looking forward to this book since I finished the last and this did not disappoint. There will be action and mayhem and also a little bit of romance thrown in or at least this groups version of romance. Definitely worth the wait.
June 8, 2023
JL Weil!!! You never disappoint!! Love these characters and again could not put the book down!!! I need to know what happens next!!!!!!!
June 9, 2023
Seriously can't get enough
The elite are addicting and so are these books.... love love love them! Really need the conclusion to the series sooner than later!
The elite are addicting and so are these books.... love love love them! Really need the conclusion to the series sooner than later!
June 15, 2023
The hunt
Grayson and Ainsley's story comes with things I wasn't expecting. They are still on the hunt, as group, they are getting closer to tracking their prey.
Grayson and Ainsley's story comes with things I wasn't expecting. They are still on the hunt, as group, they are getting closer to tracking their prey.
June 21, 2023
I love how fast paced this book was and it really does pull you along with all the action! Ainsley and Grayson really have a dynamic spark! Can’t wait for more!
June 24, 2023
I absolutely loved Grayson and Ainsley's story. This series is really good and the elite are still at it. I loved every second and binged this book. Worth it!
July 1, 2023
This series was everything!!!
October 10, 2023
Predictable but good!
I really liked this one, it was intense and left me needing more! Grayson is so broody, but fiercely protective. So it was a bumpy way to figuring things out!
I really liked this one, it was intense and left me needing more! Grayson is so broody, but fiercely protective. So it was a bumpy way to figuring things out!
June 7, 2024
Awww!
This couple's story was a bit less adrenaline and action heavy, instead it focused on a more devious and psychologically dangerous foe.
This couple's story was a bit less adrenaline and action heavy, instead it focused on a more devious and psychologically dangerous foe.
May 22, 2025
Amazing!
Oh my, loved Ains and Graysons story, can"t to read the last book and all signs point to Flynn and Kenna
Oh my, loved Ains and Graysons story, can"t to read the last book and all signs point to Flynn and Kenna
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews