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Chapter 8 #2
Return to Grace Street
New game. New rules.
Warning: This is not a fairy tale love story nor is it a BDSM romance. This is a story about facing the darkness within. The man written within the pages of this book is obsessive, possessive and broken, and he gets off on mind fucking his lovers. He's an anti-hero with an abusive past who often times pushes too hard in his quest to win his own sick game. The fainthearted, closed-minded and squeamish need not read any further. Contains graphic sex, total power exchange, and situations that may elicit discomfort or trigger past memories of abuse. For mature readers aged 18+
Abandon. Denial. Surrender.
Victor tried to stay away; he couldn't. He tried to start a new chapter and only wasted his time. He did his best to keep his demons at bay, but it proved to be an impossible task. Now Mr. Black is back to take what's his and face-off with the one player who beat him at his own game. Only this time he aims to win, even if his methods mean risking everything, including his job, reputation and sanity.
Having moved past the heartbreak and physical torture that Mr. Black put her through, Elsa's life is back on track. With a new love in her life and her future secure, she's horrified and angry when he reappears, threatening his wrath if she doesn't play his twisted game again. But despite being haunted by his dark, untold secrets, she's a different woman now. Stronger than before and far more resilient. And more importantly, determined to make her own rules.
This time around, both participants are on equal ground. They will play with such passion and ferocity, their very existence is threatened because in their eyes, there can be only one winner and there is no conceding when your mental and physical freedom is at stake.
Warning: This is not a fairy tale love story nor is it a BDSM romance. This is a story about facing the darkness within. The man written within the pages of this book is obsessive, possessive and broken, and he gets off on mind fucking his lovers. He's an anti-hero with an abusive past who often times pushes too hard in his quest to win his own sick game. The fainthearted, closed-minded and squeamish need not read any further. Contains graphic sex, total power exchange, and situations that may elicit discomfort or trigger past memories of abuse. For mature readers aged 18+
Abandon. Denial. Surrender.
Victor tried to stay away; he couldn't. He tried to start a new chapter and only wasted his time. He did his best to keep his demons at bay, but it proved to be an impossible task. Now Mr. Black is back to take what's his and face-off with the one player who beat him at his own game. Only this time he aims to win, even if his methods mean risking everything, including his job, reputation and sanity.
Having moved past the heartbreak and physical torture that Mr. Black put her through, Elsa's life is back on track. With a new love in her life and her future secure, she's horrified and angry when he reappears, threatening his wrath if she doesn't play his twisted game again. But despite being haunted by his dark, untold secrets, she's a different woman now. Stronger than before and far more resilient. And more importantly, determined to make her own rules.
This time around, both participants are on equal ground. They will play with such passion and ferocity, their very existence is threatened because in their eyes, there can be only one winner and there is no conceding when your mental and physical freedom is at stake.
Paperback
First published December 30, 2014
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618 people want to read
About the author
Ella Dominguez
133 books1,577 followers
Ella is a self-proclaimed lover, dreamer, and wanderer who is unequivocally obsessed with ukuleles and unicorns. She is a respiratory therapist by day and a writer by night. While she refuses to be confined by genre labels, she believes her talent best lies in writing passion-filled, ethnically diverse, suspenseful novels. More of an avid reader than an author, she is committed to writing the stories that the characters in her head tell her to.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
August 25, 2017
★★★★ ½! Return to Grace Street, book 2 of 2. A complex BDSM relationship with the enigma Mr. Black taunted by a serial killer!
Books in Chapter 8 duet should be read in order:
Book 1: Grace Street
Book 2: Return to Grace Street
Book 1 & 2: Chapter 8: Complete set - Bonus scenes, epilogue & alternate ending!
I read book one, then switched to box set. Here is my review for book 2:
Grace Street, book 1 opens up to Elsa Cassidy embarking on an affair with a mysterious stranger, Mr. Black only to discover that he is Victor Laurenzo, a prominent FBI criminal profiler and she is chapter 8 in a devious journal he’s keeping. While the volatile Mr. Black dominates and taunts her sexually, tapes their encounters and notes his journal, Ella tries to get to know the man behind the façade...
Return to Grace Street, book 2 picks up some time after books 1’s shocking ending. Victor is back, still taunted by a serial killer. And Elsa has grown a back bone so this time around there will be give and take in their game. It’s time to get to know the man behind Mr. Black!
Nine words to describe Mr. Black or Victor Laurenzo: Unpredictable, commanding, complex, sinister, possessive, secretive, manipulative, broken and remote.
Nine words to describe Elsa Cassidy: Strong, smart, self-doubting, trusting, easy-going, curious, reflective, meek and resilient.
Chapter 8: Complete set, told from dual POVs is the unraveling of a twisted relationship founded on obsession, secrets, guilt, need and self-perseverance. Ending comes with bonus scenes, extended epilogue and an alternate ending!
Addictive and suspenseful plot! Engaging story-telling! Complex, calculating and controlling hero!
***
Hero rating: 4.5 stars
Heroine rating: 4 stars
Sexual tension rating: 4.5 stars
Sex scenes rating: 4.5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 5 stars
Plot rating: 4.5 stars
Dialogue rating: 5 stars
Storytelling rating: 5 stars
Story ending rating: 4.5 stars
**********************************************
Overall rating: 4.5 stars
Would I recommend this series: Yes.
Would I re-read this series: Maybe later.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
ARC provided to me by author Ella Dominguez in exchange for an honest review.
April 12, 2016
After an eighteen-month separation, we return to Victor (aka Mr. Black) and Elsa. Knowing he couldn’t give Elsa what she needed, Victor did everything in his power to keep his distance from her but ultimately his strength waned. We find Elsa continuing her life engaged to another man, but she still hasn’t fully broken free of Victor’s hold. It isn’t until the night of her engagement party when she is reunited with none other than the man who haunts her dreams.
“I had a real run in with someone named Mr. Black once. He was a real son-of-a-bitch. You very much remind me of him.”
Of course, Victor is not satisfied with how things ended and he is now determined to continue their game, but Victor just has to convince Elsa to play. From the beginning, Elsa wanted more information about Victor – to get to know the real man, but he always insisted on “his house, his rules.” This time, Elsa has rules of her own that Victor must abide; however, will Elsa be able to protect what remains of her heart? Will she win at Victor’s game?
“But if Mr. Black had taught her anything, besides how to stalk someone, it was that there was no Prince Charming waiting to rescue her from her mundane life, and fairy-tales were for the weak-minded.”
The connection between Victor and Elsa is uniquely them – it is combustible in every way and when it comes to the bedroom, it is off the charts! Victor is a commanding Dominant who will not tolerate being topped from the bottom. He is also a man who doesn’t place limits on sexual pleasure. Elsa craves what Victor offers and accepts it all.
“Teeth grazed her clit and the tip of a tongue circled around and around. Open your eyes so that you know who’s going to make you come.”
In this conclusion, we get to learn much more about Victor’s past. With these truths revealed, Victor and Elsa’s connection deepens and Elsa is confident that she has enough light to share with Victor. What ensues is a tumultuous path of give and take with each pushing their limits. As Victor accepts his dark side, he needs his Chapter 8 more than ever.
Throughout this series, I was enthralled by Victor and Elsa. I completely felt Elsa’s need for probe Victor’s past in an effort to pierce his heart, all the while knowing that she is probably setting herself up to fail. Then there’s Victor’s mercurial nature – appearing strong in his suits, smoking a cigarette yet fighting back his deviant urges. Their allegiance to each other is admirable and I loved how they are so utterly flawed. The best they can hope for is their own brand of happily ever after.
This series is my reintroduction to Ella Dominguez’s books and I truly enjoyed every word. Her writing is gripping and she remained true to her characters until the very end, which I greatly admire! If you’re looking for a book that offers character development and real soul searching with a touch of mystery, you will enjoy this series.
Chapter 8 Series:
*An ARC was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
September 25, 2015
AGAIN~5+stars~ you dirty, sexy man.
OH AGENT LAURENZO I'D LET YOU DO ALL THOSE ROUGH
DELICIOUS THINGS TO ME!
OK, NOW THAT'S OUT OF THE WAY, I THINK YOU GET IT.
My personal opinion is this was fantastic! Right up my
alley. I don't think there is much more or anything for
that matter to say...I don't want one thing given away on
accident. I almost forgot, Elsa, (Chapter 8)is a
feisty redhead, and you will love her. She is the only
chapter to play Victor's game as well as he does. She
believes there's good in Victor and she's determined to
figure him out and his secrets are his and his alone and
he has NEVER told anyone.
You have been warned in the sypnosis about this book, and it
definitely needs it. This has such a mixture of everything and
is everything from disturbing, dirty, and suspenseful but is
so very good.
OH AGENT LAURENZO I'D LET YOU DO ALL THOSE ROUGH
DELICIOUS THINGS TO ME!
OK, NOW THAT'S OUT OF THE WAY, I THINK YOU GET IT.
My personal opinion is this was fantastic! Right up my
alley. I don't think there is much more or anything for
that matter to say...I don't want one thing given away on
accident. I almost forgot, Elsa, (Chapter 8)is a
feisty redhead, and you will love her. She is the only
chapter to play Victor's game as well as he does. She
believes there's good in Victor and she's determined to
figure him out and his secrets are his and his alone and
he has NEVER told anyone.
You have been warned in the sypnosis about this book, and it
definitely needs it. This has such a mixture of everything and
is everything from disturbing, dirty, and suspenseful but is
so very good.
April 4, 2018
Return to Grace Street is a dark and super fucked up kind of romance. No really it is. If you want hearts, flowers, rainbows, and balloons.. stick to the lucky charms cereal and fluffy romance novel shit. Don't even look at this book.
One thing I need to know while reading this book: ARE VICTOR AND ELSA GONNA BUILD A SNOWMAN AND LIVE HAPPILY EVER AFTER?!?
Okay, first off, Elsa.. you are an annoying twat sometimes. Why can't you be like the cartoon version of yourself and let it go .. and say that the cold doesn't bother you anyway? Why do you have to frustrate the hell out me?!?! WHY!? God, I get that you wanted to help Victor... but can you stop acting like a bafoon every once in a while?!?! I wanted to slap her with a smart stick almost throughout the entire book.
Then there's Victor.. oh man. He is still a fucked up person.. and I still didn't see eye to eye with him. BUT HOT DAMN THE SMUT PEOPLE! However, I still don't condone how he treated Elsa nor the other "Chapters" beforehand.. but I am happy to sort of get closure on how he became who he was. Ya know?
Overall, it was a good book. I can't say that it was better than the first one. It was definitely an eye opener thought and it sort of helps you understand how people are in a different world/way. Seeing how they treat the person they care about it always interesting to me. Plus, I had to give Elsa her credit for sticking by the man. So props to you girl.
One thing I need to know while reading this book: ARE VICTOR AND ELSA GONNA BUILD A SNOWMAN AND LIVE HAPPILY EVER AFTER?!?
Okay, first off, Elsa.. you are an annoying twat sometimes. Why can't you be like the cartoon version of yourself and let it go .. and say that the cold doesn't bother you anyway? Why do you have to frustrate the hell out me?!?! WHY!? God, I get that you wanted to help Victor... but can you stop acting like a bafoon every once in a while?!?! I wanted to slap her with a smart stick almost throughout the entire book.
Then there's Victor.. oh man. He is still a fucked up person.. and I still didn't see eye to eye with him. BUT HOT DAMN THE SMUT PEOPLE! However, I still don't condone how he treated Elsa nor the other "Chapters" beforehand.. but I am happy to sort of get closure on how he became who he was. Ya know?
Overall, it was a good book. I can't say that it was better than the first one. It was definitely an eye opener thought and it sort of helps you understand how people are in a different world/way. Seeing how they treat the person they care about it always interesting to me. Plus, I had to give Elsa her credit for sticking by the man. So props to you girl.
May 11, 2018
3.5 stars
The story goes on 18 months after the end of the Grace Street. Although the book doesn't mention details of what happened in this period of time to Elsa and/or to Victor, information is given to us through references or memories. Ms. Dominguez wrote again about the game but in an upgraded version. I still couldn't connect to the heroes until close to the end and I still couldn't stop reading about them. I was again captive of the story and I was needing to know exactly what happened.
Elsa was broken after how the things ended in Grace Street. She is in another place now but she still chooses to play the game. This time with her terms. I like better this Elsa. She is not naive anymore and she set her rules on the table. She knows her power and she is using it.
Victor has changed. He is obliged to face the reality around him and he wants to in a way. I understand him better during this book since lots of secrets are coming out in the open.
The interactions among the heroes are still intense but the game is played in such a level that nobody can be trusted.
Close to the end of the book, I figured out what the game was about. Everything felt better once I got it and I felt kind of stupid that I couldn't see it earlier.
The end of the book was nice and all secrets were out, all truths were told! The most beautiful lines that I read in a long time came after the end of the book.
The first to apologize is the bravest. The first to forgive is the strongest. And the first to forget is the happiest!
The story goes on 18 months after the end of the Grace Street. Although the book doesn't mention details of what happened in this period of time to Elsa and/or to Victor, information is given to us through references or memories. Ms. Dominguez wrote again about the game but in an upgraded version. I still couldn't connect to the heroes until close to the end and I still couldn't stop reading about them. I was again captive of the story and I was needing to know exactly what happened.
Elsa was broken after how the things ended in Grace Street. She is in another place now but she still chooses to play the game. This time with her terms. I like better this Elsa. She is not naive anymore and she set her rules on the table. She knows her power and she is using it.
Victor has changed. He is obliged to face the reality around him and he wants to in a way. I understand him better during this book since lots of secrets are coming out in the open.
The interactions among the heroes are still intense but the game is played in such a level that nobody can be trusted.
Close to the end of the book, I figured out what the game was about. Everything felt better once I got it and I felt kind of stupid that I couldn't see it earlier.
The end of the book was nice and all secrets were out, all truths were told! The most beautiful lines that I read in a long time came after the end of the book.
The first to apologize is the bravest. The first to forgive is the strongest. And the first to forget is the happiest!
January 4, 2015
Have you ever read a book that you've put down often because you're afraid to read it to the end; scared of how it will end; unwilling to let the characters go; and unsure you will ever read something that brilliant again?
Return to Grace Street, the entire series, opened up a whole new segment of the Erotica genre. I never imagined I would love to read a dark emotional/psychological book. The characters were so rich because they were simultaneously complex and simply human.
Ms. Dominguez ties so many loose ends with book 2, allowing us to see how their dysfunctional relationship concludes. Every sentence grips you. She has an amazing narrative--succinct and lyrical; like the songs she suggests in the book.
I was both happy and sad to see this book end. Happy because I needed to know what's next for both of them. Once I got my answer, I was sad because I would no longer read the light, the dark, the kink, the jealousy, or the future of the pair.
This was a brilliant read. Every time I stopped reading a segment, I just kept sighing because I read pure genius.
I'm delighted I discovered Ms. Dominguez's books. She has become one of my favorites. I can't wait to read the rest of her books; past and present.
This series was the top book of 2014, and should be on everyone's to-be-read list for 2015.
Return to Grace Street, the entire series, opened up a whole new segment of the Erotica genre. I never imagined I would love to read a dark emotional/psychological book. The characters were so rich because they were simultaneously complex and simply human.
Ms. Dominguez ties so many loose ends with book 2, allowing us to see how their dysfunctional relationship concludes. Every sentence grips you. She has an amazing narrative--succinct and lyrical; like the songs she suggests in the book.
I was both happy and sad to see this book end. Happy because I needed to know what's next for both of them. Once I got my answer, I was sad because I would no longer read the light, the dark, the kink, the jealousy, or the future of the pair.
This was a brilliant read. Every time I stopped reading a segment, I just kept sighing because I read pure genius.
I'm delighted I discovered Ms. Dominguez's books. She has become one of my favorites. I can't wait to read the rest of her books; past and present.
This series was the top book of 2014, and should be on everyone's to-be-read list for 2015.
January 7, 2015
Holy Mother of… I’m STILL trying to put the words together for this review, and I BETA’d this….LOL
First of all, this is NOT a stand-alone and you HAVE to read the first one in order to even remotely understand this one.
Second, Elsa, I don’t care what other people may think, you’re a lucky girl…and I hate you for it. Just kidding…maybe. Not many get the chance to be stalked, spanked and loved by a ga ga gorgeous man such as Victor, even if Mr. Black shows up every now and then. Sorry you had to go through some of Mr. Black’s coo coo-ness, but be honest, you know you liked it a little.
Third, um….Mr. Black, I mean, Victor, Mr. Black, Sir…is it wrong that I wanted to be one of your Chapters? I mean, I probably would have totally failed and been dismissed within 2 weeks…but…(sigh).
Ok, all kidding aside, LOVED IT!!! Ella and her brilliance have done it again. She really got down to the “nitty gritty” and boy this DOES NOT DISAPPOINT.
To be continued….or not? You’ll have to read to find out ☺
First of all, this is NOT a stand-alone and you HAVE to read the first one in order to even remotely understand this one.
Second, Elsa, I don’t care what other people may think, you’re a lucky girl…and I hate you for it. Just kidding…maybe. Not many get the chance to be stalked, spanked and loved by a ga ga gorgeous man such as Victor, even if Mr. Black shows up every now and then. Sorry you had to go through some of Mr. Black’s coo coo-ness, but be honest, you know you liked it a little.
Third, um….Mr. Black, I mean, Victor, Mr. Black, Sir…is it wrong that I wanted to be one of your Chapters? I mean, I probably would have totally failed and been dismissed within 2 weeks…but…(sigh).
Ok, all kidding aside, LOVED IT!!! Ella and her brilliance have done it again. She really got down to the “nitty gritty” and boy this DOES NOT DISAPPOINT.
To be continued….or not? You’ll have to read to find out ☺
January 15, 2015
Leigh‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
5 STARS
I felt as if I waited forever for this book to be released, and it was so worth it. I could not put it down and felt completely wrung out when it was over.
Return to Grace Street didn’t just rehash or blindly extend the relationship between Elsa and Victor that started in the first book, but delved into Victor’s past to explain how Mr. Black came to be. With his Jeckyll and Hyde persona, I expected to continue my dislike of Victor/Mr. Black that I had during the first book. But hearing about his background truly humanized him, as did the growing affection and admiration he had for Elsa, which he grudgingly showed. Mr. Black was still a cruel and depraved monster, but Victor became a man that wanted to care for Elsa and I found myself actually liking him in a dark and seedy sort of way.
Elsa showed herself to be a strong woman in her own right, turning the tables on Victor and playing his game where she now had a hand in writing the rules. She showed the strength she had in being able to submit and caring for this man that she had every reason to despise.
Everything that Ella Dominguez puts down into words just amazes me. Her style is sultry and edgy. Her characters are not purely good, evil, strong, weak, or cruel, but rather a mix of dark and light. Her stories are not for those that have any triggers or are looking for a true romance, but rather show a darker side of a relationship that can be obsessive and destructive and all consuming.
Return to Grace Street was a sordid journey to an abyss where both parties managed to crawl through better together than they could apart. It was erotic and sexy and destructive at the same time, and wouldn’t let me go until the very end. The spark between Elsa and Victor was so consuming that it would be hard to imagine a complete life for either alone after experiencing these feelings together.
I’m thankful that Ms. Dominguez did not follow the current trend and drag this out into one more book. Elsa and Victor’s story was told completely in these two novels, and while I would like to visit them several years down the road, I am satisfied with how the story ended. If you feel the darkness descending and want to crawl into an obsessive world, Grace Street is for you.
5 STARS
I felt as if I waited forever for this book to be released, and it was so worth it. I could not put it down and felt completely wrung out when it was over.
Return to Grace Street didn’t just rehash or blindly extend the relationship between Elsa and Victor that started in the first book, but delved into Victor’s past to explain how Mr. Black came to be. With his Jeckyll and Hyde persona, I expected to continue my dislike of Victor/Mr. Black that I had during the first book. But hearing about his background truly humanized him, as did the growing affection and admiration he had for Elsa, which he grudgingly showed. Mr. Black was still a cruel and depraved monster, but Victor became a man that wanted to care for Elsa and I found myself actually liking him in a dark and seedy sort of way.
Elsa showed herself to be a strong woman in her own right, turning the tables on Victor and playing his game where she now had a hand in writing the rules. She showed the strength she had in being able to submit and caring for this man that she had every reason to despise.
Everything that Ella Dominguez puts down into words just amazes me. Her style is sultry and edgy. Her characters are not purely good, evil, strong, weak, or cruel, but rather a mix of dark and light. Her stories are not for those that have any triggers or are looking for a true romance, but rather show a darker side of a relationship that can be obsessive and destructive and all consuming.
Return to Grace Street was a sordid journey to an abyss where both parties managed to crawl through better together than they could apart. It was erotic and sexy and destructive at the same time, and wouldn’t let me go until the very end. The spark between Elsa and Victor was so consuming that it would be hard to imagine a complete life for either alone after experiencing these feelings together.
I’m thankful that Ms. Dominguez did not follow the current trend and drag this out into one more book. Elsa and Victor’s story was told completely in these two novels, and while I would like to visit them several years down the road, I am satisfied with how the story ended. If you feel the darkness descending and want to crawl into an obsessive world, Grace Street is for you.
December 31, 2014
What an emotional ride! I was lucky enough to be able to beta read Return to a Grace Street. It is hard to write one dark erotic romance extremely well, but then to follow it up with another that is as outstanding as the first? Very difficult. To be able to bring to life two characters who are fundamentally "broken" and watch as the pieces mold and meld back together takes true talent.
I fell in love with Victor and Elsa from book 1, which was my introduction to Ella Dominguez's work. I became so engaged and attached to these characters I couldn't stop turning the pages of Return to Grace Street to see where the road took them. This was such an emotional book, not only for the characters, but for me as a reader. Anger. Disgust. Rage, even. Frustration. Love. But most of all, hope. Hope that Elsa and Victor could overcome all the bad sh*t and come to some type of HEA. Or at least a satisfying resolution that two people as screwed up as these two could have. And I was not disappointed. As with Grace Street, I've added RTGS to my list of favorites of 2014 and to my top 25 favorite books ever read. I highly recommend it!
I fell in love with Victor and Elsa from book 1, which was my introduction to Ella Dominguez's work. I became so engaged and attached to these characters I couldn't stop turning the pages of Return to Grace Street to see where the road took them. This was such an emotional book, not only for the characters, but for me as a reader. Anger. Disgust. Rage, even. Frustration. Love. But most of all, hope. Hope that Elsa and Victor could overcome all the bad sh*t and come to some type of HEA. Or at least a satisfying resolution that two people as screwed up as these two could have. And I was not disappointed. As with Grace Street, I've added RTGS to my list of favorites of 2014 and to my top 25 favorite books ever read. I highly recommend it!
January 11, 2015
With these two characters you can't expect a simple knot and bow ending. They're complex and thus, so is their story...and ending. I loved the book and the way Ms. Dominguez didn't simplify or over dramatize the complications between these two. The book stayed true to who they were and I never reached a moment where I didn't want to know what was on the next page. Well done! I absolutely loved it.
January 17, 2015
5++ worthy stars from me.
Ella Dominguez... Lady I am completely enamoured by your brain! Where an earth do you think these things up!
Return to Grace Street capitulates the repercussions of fucked up DNA and the lasting effects a pysche inherits from the dregs of humanity that are parental lineage. Victor and Mr Black jostle for Elsa's compliance and affection, the push pull of degradation and humiliation and the need to hear her say the words "I Love You" again to win the game is what feeds both Victor and Mr Black.
Yet again though Elsa proves a worthy adversary playing the Game. Victor underestimates her, thinking he knows it all and nothing she could do would give her a winning hand. Go team Elsa!
Now I know there are going to be some reviewers that cannot get past the fact that Elsa ventures back to 2500 Grace Street. Heck even I struggled and wanted to call her an idiot! But deep down I understood, I got why she went back just enough to be able to continue reading their journey for playing The Game the second time around. I was both dreading it and excited by it, much the same as Elsa as she walked through that door!
Mr Black is still apparent and still vies to be top dog to hurt and humiliate Elsa but Victor also learns and does his best to reign him in. The Game is played in a more relaxed manner for want of wording it better, Victor hides nothing from Elsa so Elsa feels more equal to him but still has the underlying fear of Mr Black rearing his sadistic head.
Throughout RTGS the obvious pyschological impact of everything is ever apparent. Ella's writes with such a command and understanding of human traits and emotive conditions that her words are a literary, intellectual, erotic lesson with a side of suspense and thriller. In other words un-freaking-putdownable!
Ella really is a Queen B at delivering believable, completely messed up but totally 3 dimensional characters and situations that have you questioning your beliefs about what you could possibly handle in the same situations. You feel what they feel, you're scared of what they are scared off. You live what they are living whilst reading this.
For starters how in hell could someone 'like' Mr Black after what he did in Grace Street? Well I wouldn't say he is redeemed but I can say I understood and to just understand him then gives forth that feeling of the offer of forgiveness. And therein lies why this is a love story albeit dark. And as dark, fucked up and utterly disturbing as it is, Elsa and Victor truly are each other's halves.
This is not an easy book to read, the dynamics are massively contentious, the plot often savage, but the text is impassioned, the characters are scarily tough and brilliant and in layman's terms it is an absolutely bloody riveting dark erotic reading!
Ella Dominguez... Lady I am completely enamoured by your brain! Where an earth do you think these things up!
Return to Grace Street capitulates the repercussions of fucked up DNA and the lasting effects a pysche inherits from the dregs of humanity that are parental lineage. Victor and Mr Black jostle for Elsa's compliance and affection, the push pull of degradation and humiliation and the need to hear her say the words "I Love You" again to win the game is what feeds both Victor and Mr Black.
Yet again though Elsa proves a worthy adversary playing the Game. Victor underestimates her, thinking he knows it all and nothing she could do would give her a winning hand. Go team Elsa!
Now I know there are going to be some reviewers that cannot get past the fact that Elsa ventures back to 2500 Grace Street. Heck even I struggled and wanted to call her an idiot! But deep down I understood, I got why she went back just enough to be able to continue reading their journey for playing The Game the second time around. I was both dreading it and excited by it, much the same as Elsa as she walked through that door!
Mr Black is still apparent and still vies to be top dog to hurt and humiliate Elsa but Victor also learns and does his best to reign him in. The Game is played in a more relaxed manner for want of wording it better, Victor hides nothing from Elsa so Elsa feels more equal to him but still has the underlying fear of Mr Black rearing his sadistic head.
Throughout RTGS the obvious pyschological impact of everything is ever apparent. Ella's writes with such a command and understanding of human traits and emotive conditions that her words are a literary, intellectual, erotic lesson with a side of suspense and thriller. In other words un-freaking-putdownable!
Ella really is a Queen B at delivering believable, completely messed up but totally 3 dimensional characters and situations that have you questioning your beliefs about what you could possibly handle in the same situations. You feel what they feel, you're scared of what they are scared off. You live what they are living whilst reading this.
For starters how in hell could someone 'like' Mr Black after what he did in Grace Street? Well I wouldn't say he is redeemed but I can say I understood and to just understand him then gives forth that feeling of the offer of forgiveness. And therein lies why this is a love story albeit dark. And as dark, fucked up and utterly disturbing as it is, Elsa and Victor truly are each other's halves.
This is not an easy book to read, the dynamics are massively contentious, the plot often savage, but the text is impassioned, the characters are scarily tough and brilliant and in layman's terms it is an absolutely bloody riveting dark erotic reading!
December 30, 2014
Once again, I had the privilege of beta-reading Return to Grace Street for Ella, and I've gotta admit that my emotions are all over the place. This series was by far one of the darkest reads I've attempted. The warning definitely says it all: The fainthearted, closed-minded and squeamish need not read any further. If this has your interest piqued, then by all means, please continue...you will not be disappointed.
When I first met Victor I was quickly drawn to the tall, dark & handsome man just as Elsa was, but quickly learned that he was one half of a whole. His alter-ego, Mr. Black, always lingered below the surface, waiting to make his appearance. And oh, lord, did he. He was vicious & cruel, he was calculating & impulsive, but most of all, he was broken and needed mending. He left Elsa broken, and even though she tried to stay away from him, like a moth to a flame, she was drawn to him. At first she said it was due to the fact that he had laid out an ultimatum for her: play the game or face my wrath. But in reality, the truth was that he had embedded himself so deeply within her heart, she had no other option but to be drawn to him once again. But two broken pieces don't necessarily always fit together and can wind up getting hurt if you try and force those pieces to fit. Elsa & Victor's tumultuous relationship isn't for the faint of heart, it's not your everyday fairytale love story with the usual Happily Ever After, but being the hopeless romantic that I am, I'm so happy with their growth and love that they fought to be able to move forward. Together.
When I first met Victor I was quickly drawn to the tall, dark & handsome man just as Elsa was, but quickly learned that he was one half of a whole. His alter-ego, Mr. Black, always lingered below the surface, waiting to make his appearance. And oh, lord, did he. He was vicious & cruel, he was calculating & impulsive, but most of all, he was broken and needed mending. He left Elsa broken, and even though she tried to stay away from him, like a moth to a flame, she was drawn to him. At first she said it was due to the fact that he had laid out an ultimatum for her: play the game or face my wrath. But in reality, the truth was that he had embedded himself so deeply within her heart, she had no other option but to be drawn to him once again. But two broken pieces don't necessarily always fit together and can wind up getting hurt if you try and force those pieces to fit. Elsa & Victor's tumultuous relationship isn't for the faint of heart, it's not your everyday fairytale love story with the usual Happily Ever After, but being the hopeless romantic that I am, I'm so happy with their growth and love that they fought to be able to move forward. Together.
February 10, 2015
WOW !!! I am out of breath and speechless. What a emotional ride !!!!
Great job Ella !!! You had put so much effort to bring on life two broken people. Still I am in shock as hell. I can not collect all my thoughts about this book. I also can not compare Chapter 8 series to anything I have read before. This series is so much different.
Darkness in Victor`s mind and soul is so deep and strong. He allowed himself to be so cruel,sadistic sociopath to everyone in his world like there were guilty and he had to punish them. During whole book I thought I would not stand this dark side of their lives. Mostly I tried to gave up on them because everything seems to be so complicated I could not find any hope for them.
Victor. My beautiful, unemotional, unlovable, unpredictable, the most pessimistic broken boy. What can I say about him ? In my opinion he is his own worst enemy.
I loved what you have done with ending. From the beginning we knew there will not be fairy tail in this book but lets be honest they deserve to have shine and sunny days too.
I am glad it finished exactly the way you written it. You could not have ended it otherwise.
Ella Dominguez thank you for keeping me on edge of my nerves from start to finish .
I give you 5 stars.
Great job Ella !!! You had put so much effort to bring on life two broken people. Still I am in shock as hell. I can not collect all my thoughts about this book. I also can not compare Chapter 8 series to anything I have read before. This series is so much different.
Darkness in Victor`s mind and soul is so deep and strong. He allowed himself to be so cruel,sadistic sociopath to everyone in his world like there were guilty and he had to punish them. During whole book I thought I would not stand this dark side of their lives. Mostly I tried to gave up on them because everything seems to be so complicated I could not find any hope for them.
Victor. My beautiful, unemotional, unlovable, unpredictable, the most pessimistic broken boy. What can I say about him ? In my opinion he is his own worst enemy.
I loved what you have done with ending. From the beginning we knew there will not be fairy tail in this book but lets be honest they deserve to have shine and sunny days too.
I am glad it finished exactly the way you written it. You could not have ended it otherwise.
Ella Dominguez thank you for keeping me on edge of my nerves from start to finish .
I give you 5 stars.
January 17, 2015
If
wasn't your typical erotic romance, this book is not your typical HEA ending.
Mr. Black is back, but Victor has only was on thing on his mind: Elsa... and a surprise aside.
I loved the duality between Victor and Mr. Black, because human beings ourselves are full of different colours. Some may be darker, some lighter.
Ms. Ella always delivers us perfectly flawless human characters, with she does and exceptionally good; that what she does incredibly, amazingly perfect.
From Ella's sub's desires and Victor's pains, she does.
The most amazing part of the book was the ending. Nothing compared what I expected to be, which was a HEA, but I thought she was delivering us a sad one. It just so unexpected... and realistic.
Mr. Black, I'm gonna miss you, but Victor, I'll already do.
wasn't your typical erotic romance, this book is not your typical HEA ending. Mr. Black is back, but Victor has only was on thing on his mind: Elsa... and a surprise aside.
I loved the duality between Victor and Mr. Black, because human beings ourselves are full of different colours. Some may be darker, some lighter.
Ms. Ella always delivers us perfectly flawless human characters, with she does and exceptionally good; that what she does incredibly, amazingly perfect.
From Ella's sub's desires and Victor's pains, she does.
The most amazing part of the book was the ending. Nothing compared what I expected to be, which was a HEA, but I thought she was delivering us a sad one. It just so unexpected... and realistic.
Mr. Black, I'm gonna miss you, but Victor, I'll already do.
February 21, 2015
There is a special place in my heart for Victor. I don't really like him very much. He's a royal pain in the ass! I found myself wanting to put his fingers in a door jam and slam the door repeatedly on them (I'm not a violent, I swear). Having said all of that.....
This was an excellent ending to the story of Elsa and Victor. I don't even necessarily love them together. I think Elsa could do soo much better. The sum of any relationship is two equal parts and Victori sjust broken down and sad. However, you can't really help who you fall in love with, and Elsa fell hard for Victor. He had her at hello! He's her lobster. The point I'm trying to make is that Ella Dominguez thoroughly fucked with my mind. It's just a puddle of goo and I enjoyed it immensely! I'm on the Ella Dominquez train and I don't plan on getting off any time soon!
Oh one more thing....There was anal! Lots and lots of anal! *wink*4
This was an excellent ending to the story of Elsa and Victor. I don't even necessarily love them together. I think Elsa could do soo much better. The sum of any relationship is two equal parts and Victori sjust broken down and sad. However, you can't really help who you fall in love with, and Elsa fell hard for Victor. He had her at hello! He's her lobster. The point I'm trying to make is that Ella Dominguez thoroughly fucked with my mind. It's just a puddle of goo and I enjoyed it immensely! I'm on the Ella Dominquez train and I don't plan on getting off any time soon!
Oh one more thing....There was anal! Lots and lots of anal! *wink*4
January 15, 2015
A great second part of Return to Grace Street.
So after nearly being destroyed in the last book Elsa comes back for another go at being Victor/Mr Blacks chapter 8 but only if she can bring some of her own rules to the table to play his game.
I liked Elsa's character more in this book she was much stronger and more determined and she didn't just roll over and give in to Mr Black.
Elsa was guarding her heart this time round till she found out who Mr Black was then she might let him in again. Elsa wants to know all about Mr Black and he's not happy to tell her.
Victor tried his hardest to deny his love for Elsa but eventually......
A great 2 part serial.
So after nearly being destroyed in the last book Elsa comes back for another go at being Victor/Mr Blacks chapter 8 but only if she can bring some of her own rules to the table to play his game.
I liked Elsa's character more in this book she was much stronger and more determined and she didn't just roll over and give in to Mr Black.
Elsa was guarding her heart this time round till she found out who Mr Black was then she might let him in again. Elsa wants to know all about Mr Black and he's not happy to tell her.
Victor tried his hardest to deny his love for Elsa but eventually......
A great 2 part serial.
January 6, 2015
If in the first book Elsa was the moth to the flame in this offering Mr Black is the tiger burning bright but this time it is she that is wielding the torch that obsesses the beast.She is the flame.
While some writers bake us cookie cut heroes in neat rows to devour,this writer has created a Jekyll & Hyde monster that mothers warned their daughters about around camp fires in the black of night down through the centuries.
This book is sexily painful without requiring a session in the red room,Mr Black is the red room personified,he is the maniacal Christian Grey tenfold,thrice twisted & all the dirty colors in between.
All Hail Mr Black.
While some writers bake us cookie cut heroes in neat rows to devour,this writer has created a Jekyll & Hyde monster that mothers warned their daughters about around camp fires in the black of night down through the centuries.
This book is sexily painful without requiring a session in the red room,Mr Black is the red room personified,he is the maniacal Christian Grey tenfold,thrice twisted & all the dirty colors in between.
All Hail Mr Black.
January 8, 2015
Wow! This series is my favorite of Ella Dominguez's work, hands down. There was so much depth and development that it was easy to get lost in this dark world of lust, lies, and finally liberation. I was so set to hate Victor and trust me, there are a million reason to justify it. He is also his own worst enemy. I loved his transformation, I didn't think it was possible to like him and hope for his redemption but, yeah, I did. He is going down in history as one of my favorite irresistible jerk. Elsa also grew as a person and I was finally able to understand why she was so drawn to Victor and even Mr. Black a little. A real mindf*ck of a story and a must read series!
January 10, 2015
5 stars. I would of liked to see an Epilogue, i really wanted to see how they both took to the relationship and to see the struggles they fought between Victor & Mr Black throughout this.
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When is this going to be released?
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When is this going to be released?
March 21, 2018
This duology really opened my eyes to some things and I commend the author for making that happen. And I am still, twelve hours after I finished this book, not sure how I felt about it. It was enjoyable and really so fucked up that I didn't want to continue at the same time. So I also commend the author for making me feel that way at the exact same time. However, I will admit that even though I feel like this book was totally fucked, I could not put it down. I just NEEDED to know if Victor and Elsa ended up with a HEA. And it didn't matter the content I was reading, I was so invested in them that I could not stop reading.
I must say that Elsa was a totally infuriating character to read about. I cannot believe she took the things that she took in this book or in the first book either. All in the name of wanting to help Victor. She was a strong woman and that is exactly what Victor needed. But there is a thin line between strong and stupid. And she was boarding on stupid for such a long time. A few times she slipped over to that side of the line. And I know this was a book and it was all in the name of the end game. But still, it was so aggravating.
And Victor, he did get much much better in this book. He didn't hurt her as much as he did in the first book. But he still wanted to fuck with her head, and that is exactly what he did. It was hard to feel anything but sorrow for him. Throughout this entire book you learn about why he is the way he is. And he went through some seriously fucked up shit during his life. So you can't help but feel sorry for him and I guess kind of understand the way he acts? It still doesn't make it okay for the way he treated his past Chapters or Elsa.
I finished this book about 12 hours ago and decided I needed to think about this book before writing a review. Because I was so... I dont know the right word... irritated? exasperated? I don't know. But I knew I needed to think about everything a bit before I came on here to voice my opinion. And let me tell you, I am SO happy that I waited. Because this morning after waking up I seen a quote by Mr. Rodgers shared on social media. And most people know about him and how... influential he was. And that quote was:
"Love isn't a state of perfect caring. It is an active noun like struggle. To love someone is to strive to accept that person exactly the way he or she is, right here and now."
And damn, if that quote doesn't make me think of this book in a whole new light. I now understand more about why Elsa did what she did. Why she was okay with Victor AND Mr. Black. She knew she needed to accept the person that he was and the person he is includes Mr. Black. I couldn't see that while reading. But after reading that quote. Man, it just opened my mind. And I am now more understanding of the characters and what happened in this book. No, I don't think a lot of what happened was right. But yes, I do understand a little bit better.
I will say that this book is NOT for the faint of heart.
I must say that Elsa was a totally infuriating character to read about. I cannot believe she took the things that she took in this book or in the first book either. All in the name of wanting to help Victor. She was a strong woman and that is exactly what Victor needed. But there is a thin line between strong and stupid. And she was boarding on stupid for such a long time. A few times she slipped over to that side of the line. And I know this was a book and it was all in the name of the end game. But still, it was so aggravating.
And Victor, he did get much much better in this book. He didn't hurt her as much as he did in the first book. But he still wanted to fuck with her head, and that is exactly what he did. It was hard to feel anything but sorrow for him. Throughout this entire book you learn about why he is the way he is. And he went through some seriously fucked up shit during his life. So you can't help but feel sorry for him and I guess kind of understand the way he acts? It still doesn't make it okay for the way he treated his past Chapters or Elsa.
I finished this book about 12 hours ago and decided I needed to think about this book before writing a review. Because I was so... I dont know the right word... irritated? exasperated? I don't know. But I knew I needed to think about everything a bit before I came on here to voice my opinion. And let me tell you, I am SO happy that I waited. Because this morning after waking up I seen a quote by Mr. Rodgers shared on social media. And most people know about him and how... influential he was. And that quote was:
"Love isn't a state of perfect caring. It is an active noun like struggle. To love someone is to strive to accept that person exactly the way he or she is, right here and now."
And damn, if that quote doesn't make me think of this book in a whole new light. I now understand more about why Elsa did what she did. Why she was okay with Victor AND Mr. Black. She knew she needed to accept the person that he was and the person he is includes Mr. Black. I couldn't see that while reading. But after reading that quote. Man, it just opened my mind. And I am now more understanding of the characters and what happened in this book. No, I don't think a lot of what happened was right. But yes, I do understand a little bit better.
I will say that this book is NOT for the faint of heart.
January 17, 2015
5++ worthy stars from me.
Ella Dominguez... Lady I am completely enamoured by your brain! Where an earth do you think these things up!
Return to Grace Street capitulates the repercussions of fucked up DNA and the lasting effects a pysche inherits from the dregs of humanity that are parental lineage. Victor and Mr Black jostle for Elsa's compliance and affection, the push pull of degradation and humiliation and the need to hear her say the words "I Love You" again to win the game is what feeds both Victor and Mr Black.
Yet again though Elsa proves a worthy adversary playing the Game. Victor underestimates her, thinking he knows it all and nothing she could do would give her a winning hand. Go team Elsa!
Now I know there are going to be some reviewers that cannot get past the fact that Elsa ventures back to 2500 Grace Street. Heck even I struggled and wanted to call her an idiot! But deep down I understood, I got why she went back just enough to be able to continue reading their journey for playing The Game the second time around. I was both dreading it and excited by it, much the same as Elsa as she walked through that door!
Mr Black is still apparent and still vies to be top dog to hurt and humiliate Elsa but Victor also learns and does his best to reign him in. The Game is played in a more relaxed manner for want of wording it better, Victor hides nothing from Elsa so Elsa feels more equal to him but still has the underlying fear of Mr Black rearing his sadistic head.
Throughout RTGS the obvious pyschological impact of everything is ever apparent. Ella's writes with such a command and understanding of human traits and emotive conditions that her words are a literary, intellectual, erotic lesson with a side of suspense and thriller. In other words un-freaking-putdownable!
Ella really is a Queen B at delivering believable, completely messed up but totally 3 dimensional characters and situations that have you questioning your beliefs about what you could possibly handle in the same situations. You feel what they feel, you're scared of what they are scared off. You live what they are living whilst reading this.
For starters how in hell could someone 'like' Mr Black after what he did in Grace Street? Well I wouldn't say he is redeemed but I can say I understood and to just understand him then gives forth that feeling of the offer of forgiveness. And therein lies why this is a love story albeit dark. And as dark, fucked up and utterly disturbing as it is, Elsa and Victor truly are each other's halves.
This is not an easy book to read, the dynamics are massively contentious, the plot often savage, but the text is impassioned, the characters are scarily tough and brilliant and in layman's terms it is an absolutely bloody riveting dark erotic reading!
Ella Dominguez... Lady I am completely enamoured by your brain! Where an earth do you think these things up!
Return to Grace Street capitulates the repercussions of fucked up DNA and the lasting effects a pysche inherits from the dregs of humanity that are parental lineage. Victor and Mr Black jostle for Elsa's compliance and affection, the push pull of degradation and humiliation and the need to hear her say the words "I Love You" again to win the game is what feeds both Victor and Mr Black.
Yet again though Elsa proves a worthy adversary playing the Game. Victor underestimates her, thinking he knows it all and nothing she could do would give her a winning hand. Go team Elsa!
Now I know there are going to be some reviewers that cannot get past the fact that Elsa ventures back to 2500 Grace Street. Heck even I struggled and wanted to call her an idiot! But deep down I understood, I got why she went back just enough to be able to continue reading their journey for playing The Game the second time around. I was both dreading it and excited by it, much the same as Elsa as she walked through that door!
Mr Black is still apparent and still vies to be top dog to hurt and humiliate Elsa but Victor also learns and does his best to reign him in. The Game is played in a more relaxed manner for want of wording it better, Victor hides nothing from Elsa so Elsa feels more equal to him but still has the underlying fear of Mr Black rearing his sadistic head.
Throughout RTGS the obvious pyschological impact of everything is ever apparent. Ella's writes with such a command and understanding of human traits and emotive conditions that her words are a literary, intellectual, erotic lesson with a side of suspense and thriller. In other words un-freaking-putdownable!
Ella really is a Queen B at delivering believable, completely messed up but totally 3 dimensional characters and situations that have you questioning your beliefs about what you could possibly handle in the same situations. You feel what they feel, you're scared of what they are scared off. You live what they are living whilst reading this.
For starters how in hell could someone 'like' Mr Black after what he did in Grace Street? Well I wouldn't say he is redeemed but I can say I understood and to just understand him then gives forth that feeling of the offer of forgiveness. And therein lies why this is a love story albeit dark. And as dark, fucked up and utterly disturbing as it is, Elsa and Victor truly are each other's halves.
This is not an easy book to read, the dynamics are massively contentious, the plot often savage, but the text is impassioned, the characters are scarily tough and brilliant and in layman's terms it is an absolutely bloody riveting dark erotic reading!
January 3, 2015
Wow! I can't believe this journey is over. I counted down the days for this book to be released, and on Dec 30th, I counted down the hours until I could read this final chapter in the lives of Chapter 8 and Mr. Black. Let me start by saying I devoured this book. I mean, DEVOURED! I was shoveling the words in chunk by chunk, almost choking at times, but still keeping the same pace. I HAD to know what was in store for these characters. I was starving for the conclusion and boy did I enjoy it. EVERY. SINGLE. SECOND.
At times, reading this story was like watching a tornado barrel through a calm, peaceful town, destroying everything and everyone in its path. However, through the tornado, there were always a glimpses of the sun. Those powerful rays of light provided the necessary comfort, warmth and hope to continue through the rough, damaged terrain. In this final installment, Elsa is that very light; the light Victor has always seen and admired in her. However, in the beginning of this sequel, the audience gets a glimpse of just how close that light was to being completely snuffed out. Elsa has just experienced the lowest point in her life after walking out of the house on East Grace Street at the end of book one. She went through so much and now, a year and a half later, she has finally put the pieces of herself (somewhat) back together. But as we all know, being damaged leaves many scars. It also triggers a constant fear of being broken again...the realization that a reconstruction can never endure the same kind of pressure it was able to endure prior to its initial destruction. So when the recipe for Elsa's undoing finds his way back into her life, a comfortable, steady, easy future is no longer in Elsa's cards. Easy is no longer in Victor's cards either. Throughout the story, he experiences a significant amount of pain and hardship. With his Peach by his side (whether he wants her there or not), he goes to hell and back. Does this mean Victor and Elsa get their HEA though? The torture these characters cause themselves and each other is, at times, excruciating. Can two people truly overcome this kind of damage?
This novel is full of angst, sorrow, pain, and heartache. However, there is also love, compassion, kindness, courage, determination, and of course, passion. In true Ella Dominguez nature, the erotic nozzle was set to high and the intensity was pouring out full blast. Victor and Elsa heat up the pages and prove the chemistry they have is something that comes along once in a lifetime to those fortunate enough to find it. Chemistry, however, is clearly not a one-way ticket to their desired bliss. So what do Elsa and Victor do? What choices do they make? Where do they end up? If you want to know the answers, there is no need to suffer any longer. Do yourself a favor and get your hands on this final installment right now.
At times, reading this story was like watching a tornado barrel through a calm, peaceful town, destroying everything and everyone in its path. However, through the tornado, there were always a glimpses of the sun. Those powerful rays of light provided the necessary comfort, warmth and hope to continue through the rough, damaged terrain. In this final installment, Elsa is that very light; the light Victor has always seen and admired in her. However, in the beginning of this sequel, the audience gets a glimpse of just how close that light was to being completely snuffed out. Elsa has just experienced the lowest point in her life after walking out of the house on East Grace Street at the end of book one. She went through so much and now, a year and a half later, she has finally put the pieces of herself (somewhat) back together. But as we all know, being damaged leaves many scars. It also triggers a constant fear of being broken again...the realization that a reconstruction can never endure the same kind of pressure it was able to endure prior to its initial destruction. So when the recipe for Elsa's undoing finds his way back into her life, a comfortable, steady, easy future is no longer in Elsa's cards. Easy is no longer in Victor's cards either. Throughout the story, he experiences a significant amount of pain and hardship. With his Peach by his side (whether he wants her there or not), he goes to hell and back. Does this mean Victor and Elsa get their HEA though? The torture these characters cause themselves and each other is, at times, excruciating. Can two people truly overcome this kind of damage?
This novel is full of angst, sorrow, pain, and heartache. However, there is also love, compassion, kindness, courage, determination, and of course, passion. In true Ella Dominguez nature, the erotic nozzle was set to high and the intensity was pouring out full blast. Victor and Elsa heat up the pages and prove the chemistry they have is something that comes along once in a lifetime to those fortunate enough to find it. Chemistry, however, is clearly not a one-way ticket to their desired bliss. So what do Elsa and Victor do? What choices do they make? Where do they end up? If you want to know the answers, there is no need to suffer any longer. Do yourself a favor and get your hands on this final installment right now.
January 28, 2015
I'm usually one to write pretty detailed reviews, however for this one? I'm just not sure how to go about reviewing it without throwing out massive spoilers everywhere. I'm going to try and be as general as possible so as not to give anything away. Here are my thoughts in a nice list:
*I can't believe how excited I was to see Victor and Elsa "reunite". Before anything even happens there is a huge sense of dread, kinda like the calm before the storm, but you can't help being morbidly fascinated with this fucked up relationship.
*The Game. Wow. This time around might as well have included throwing punches, choke holds, and knife fights.
*Elsa's gradual realization of her power as herself.
*Victor's gradual realization of who and what he actually is compared to what he was lead to believe.
*The questions. Good grief! I was right there with Elsa when she just wanted to close her ears and beg him to stop, that she didn't really need him to reveal such personal and devastating information.
*Psychological thriller. Although there are so many genres represented in this story, I really liked how psychological this read turned out to be. It was fascinating to see a character who knows so much about psychology, especially criminal psychology, not be able to turn those skills inward to help himself.
*The ending. It was powerful, emotional, and raw. Perfect way to end this story.
I'll definitely be reading the bonus content from the boxed set as I'm VERY interested is seeing what other scenes Ella originally came up with, as well as I'm totally curious to see what the alternate ending is. Although, I'm pretty confident I would pick the one that was released. It just didn't seem like it could end any other way.
Ella Dominguez has very quickly risen up my list of favorite authors and I'm now finding myself purchasing anything she writes the second it's available. And never being disappointed by that decision.
*I can't believe how excited I was to see Victor and Elsa "reunite". Before anything even happens there is a huge sense of dread, kinda like the calm before the storm, but you can't help being morbidly fascinated with this fucked up relationship.
*The Game. Wow. This time around might as well have included throwing punches, choke holds, and knife fights.
*Elsa's gradual realization of her power as herself.
*Victor's gradual realization of who and what he actually is compared to what he was lead to believe.
*The questions. Good grief! I was right there with Elsa when she just wanted to close her ears and beg him to stop, that she didn't really need him to reveal such personal and devastating information.
*Psychological thriller. Although there are so many genres represented in this story, I really liked how psychological this read turned out to be. It was fascinating to see a character who knows so much about psychology, especially criminal psychology, not be able to turn those skills inward to help himself.
*The ending. It was powerful, emotional, and raw. Perfect way to end this story.
I'll definitely be reading the bonus content from the boxed set as I'm VERY interested is seeing what other scenes Ella originally came up with, as well as I'm totally curious to see what the alternate ending is. Although, I'm pretty confident I would pick the one that was released. It just didn't seem like it could end any other way.
Ella Dominguez has very quickly risen up my list of favorite authors and I'm now finding myself purchasing anything she writes the second it's available. And never being disappointed by that decision.
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January 1, 2015Absofreakingloutly Amazing!
I was on pins and needles to get my greedy hands on this book. The wait was SO worth it. Any book by Ella Dominguez is. The characters in this story are absolutely fascinating. Victor, a.k.a. Mr. Black, is so unique and mysterious. He's so resolved to that fact that he's broken beyond repair and hides behind the walls he's built. Elsa sees right through him though. I think she did from the very beginning. Even after he destroyed what they had together the first time around she still sees that light in him that he thinks doesn't exist. The story picks up 18 months after the end of the first book. Victor is still obsessed with Elsa and finally decides he won't stay away from her any longer. She's always belonged to him. Elsa, of course, is trying to move on without him but she's not really living. She's just existing. When he approaches her to play his game again she flat out refuses regardless of her feelings for him. After he makes her an offer she can't refuse though, she agrees to play his game one last time. She will not, however lose herself to it again. It's a new game, and Victor has a new set of rules, but guess what? So does she. If she's playing by a new set of rules, so is he. Her rules. Victor reluctantly agrees and the game begins. Again. But did it ever really end? Victor wants all of Elsa this time but he's going to have to work for it. If he wants Elsa to play this time he has to give her what he's never given anyone else. His secrets. And, oh what secrets they are. I loved learning how "Mr. Black" was born. What makes Victor tick and all those demons he's been hiding behind the guise of a successful Criminal Psychologist. The conclusion to this story is too good to give away anymore. Go one-click it. Now. Stop stalling. You know you want to.
I was on pins and needles to get my greedy hands on this book. The wait was SO worth it. Any book by Ella Dominguez is. The characters in this story are absolutely fascinating. Victor, a.k.a. Mr. Black, is so unique and mysterious. He's so resolved to that fact that he's broken beyond repair and hides behind the walls he's built. Elsa sees right through him though. I think she did from the very beginning. Even after he destroyed what they had together the first time around she still sees that light in him that he thinks doesn't exist. The story picks up 18 months after the end of the first book. Victor is still obsessed with Elsa and finally decides he won't stay away from her any longer. She's always belonged to him. Elsa, of course, is trying to move on without him but she's not really living. She's just existing. When he approaches her to play his game again she flat out refuses regardless of her feelings for him. After he makes her an offer she can't refuse though, she agrees to play his game one last time. She will not, however lose herself to it again. It's a new game, and Victor has a new set of rules, but guess what? So does she. If she's playing by a new set of rules, so is he. Her rules. Victor reluctantly agrees and the game begins. Again. But did it ever really end? Victor wants all of Elsa this time but he's going to have to work for it. If he wants Elsa to play this time he has to give her what he's never given anyone else. His secrets. And, oh what secrets they are. I loved learning how "Mr. Black" was born. What makes Victor tick and all those demons he's been hiding behind the guise of a successful Criminal Psychologist. The conclusion to this story is too good to give away anymore. Go one-click it. Now. Stop stalling. You know you want to.
January 13, 2015
This book picks up a year after Grace Street, book 1, ended. Elsa has spent a year trying to get over Victor, or rather Mr. Black. And Victor has tried to move on from his precious chapter 8. But once he learns of her plans to marry, he knows he has to have her one more time.
Their relationship has been complicated from the start. Elsa was always so strong and yet weak at the same time when it came to Victor. No matter how hard she tries to walk away, she just has to know more about the enigma that has made Victor the man he is today.
Victor believes that if he can get Elsa, the only one to beat him at his own game, to play one more time, he could finally win the game and be free of her. But there is something so different about her that is holding him captive. I wanted to hate him for everything he had done and his arrogance but the more I read, the more I began to see what Elsa sees. A man who had made assumptions about his life based on a story from his mother. His persona as Mr. Black becoming his shield against feeling the type of pain and loneliness he grew up with.
I read this story in one sitting because I was afraid to miss what came next. In typical Ella fashion, there were many twists in the storyline that kept you on the edge. I even talked or rather scold the character’s out loud on occasion. When I finished the book, I had to put it down and really digest what I had read before I could write a review. It was emotionally dark and was not a typical hearts and flowers romance. At the end, I was left wondering if they will truly survive and would love to have one more book to tie that up. But I loved it none the less. Ella’s books always hold me captive and leave me wanting more.
January 3, 2015
I may have said this in a prior review of one of Ella's other novels, but I have to be redundant and say it, again. Ella Dominguez NEVER, EVER disappoints me. I literally waited with baited breath for this sequel to "Grace St" groaned with disappointment when the release was delayed and snatched it up within seconds of learning it was live. Then had to wait a day until I had the time and attention to devote to it, in segments of reading.
"Return to Grace Street" was phenomenal. I am in awe of Ella's imagination and her ability to put it all on a story that hooks me in and doesn't let go, even after the story is over. I know I was barrelling through it to get to the end, and probably missed some of it, but this afternoon, will be going back to reread so I can get the full effect of the story.
Elsa and Victor's story is one of two people, hardened by life experiences, Victor, so much more than Elsa. Their relationship was hot, erotic, suspenseful, romantic and ultimately satisfying to me, the reader. Ella's stories always have a well developed background, they are not just episodes of coupling and snappy dialogue, although there is that and it is always right on point. The parallel stories sync in easily and are believable with the main characters and main story and serve to keep me captivated.
If you liked "Grace Street', you will love this one. Sometimes sequels can be disappointing, but I have never found that to be the case with an Ella Dominguez book.
Can't wait for your next one, Ella!
Review also posted on Amazon
"Return to Grace Street" was phenomenal. I am in awe of Ella's imagination and her ability to put it all on a story that hooks me in and doesn't let go, even after the story is over. I know I was barrelling through it to get to the end, and probably missed some of it, but this afternoon, will be going back to reread so I can get the full effect of the story.
Elsa and Victor's story is one of two people, hardened by life experiences, Victor, so much more than Elsa. Their relationship was hot, erotic, suspenseful, romantic and ultimately satisfying to me, the reader. Ella's stories always have a well developed background, they are not just episodes of coupling and snappy dialogue, although there is that and it is always right on point. The parallel stories sync in easily and are believable with the main characters and main story and serve to keep me captivated.
If you liked "Grace Street', you will love this one. Sometimes sequels can be disappointing, but I have never found that to be the case with an Ella Dominguez book.
Can't wait for your next one, Ella!
Review also posted on Amazon
January 2, 2016
I loved loved this book! * Spoiler Free!!!! *
Most books (maybe 95%) I read nowadays annoy me in one aspect. The hero acts like a dick and the heroin completely forgives in an instant. Here's the thing, I do love anti-heroes but really I like it when a girl stands up for herself and at least demands an apology and let's him know what he did was wrong.
This book was not like that. Our heroin Elsa did not make Victor think that anything that's happened is okay and I must say, the scenes written by the author showing his guilt were so well done. I didn't sympathise for him, but at least we felt te extent of his regret (in most book it's almost as though the heroes feel bad and in an instant they're forgiven
This book can be a psychological thriller but for me, it was a lot about love, acceptance, and to how much can you endure for love?
This book is set 1.5 years where the last book ended. You'd think that victor realized his mistake and wants to confess his love or something cute ? No no no. He seeks her out to play their game one last time.
This is where the story begins. But here, feelings are deeper, especially for him. We get more into Victor's psych. You will fall Inlove with victor and hate mr.black.
It's a fast paced intense book so you'll not want to put this one down!
I felt the connection and love between these two. I love that we were able to dig deep into Victor's mind.
Ahh I just loved itttt :) hope you guys do as well!
Most books (maybe 95%) I read nowadays annoy me in one aspect. The hero acts like a dick and the heroin completely forgives in an instant. Here's the thing, I do love anti-heroes but really I like it when a girl stands up for herself and at least demands an apology and let's him know what he did was wrong.
This book was not like that. Our heroin Elsa did not make Victor think that anything that's happened is okay and I must say, the scenes written by the author showing his guilt were so well done. I didn't sympathise for him, but at least we felt te extent of his regret (in most book it's almost as though the heroes feel bad and in an instant they're forgiven
This book can be a psychological thriller but for me, it was a lot about love, acceptance, and to how much can you endure for love?
This book is set 1.5 years where the last book ended. You'd think that victor realized his mistake and wants to confess his love or something cute ? No no no. He seeks her out to play their game one last time.
This is where the story begins. But here, feelings are deeper, especially for him. We get more into Victor's psych. You will fall Inlove with victor and hate mr.black.
It's a fast paced intense book so you'll not want to put this one down!
I felt the connection and love between these two. I love that we were able to dig deep into Victor's mind.
Ahh I just loved itttt :) hope you guys do as well!
March 27, 2016
I’m at a loss for words. I thought the first book did a number on me but just you wait until you start this one.
Return to Grace Streets will make you think and over think everything. I know Elsa is a smart woman but when Victor aka Mr. Black ended things in the last book; I was torn in still loving this man with his dark side to hating him with such passion when he hurt her. Now, I think I’m as fucked in the head as Mr. Black is. Being one of his chapters may might be the brightest thing I ever wanted but the experience he could give me is something I do never even fathom.
In a very twisted way Victor and Elsa are made for one another. He needs her to balance and archer him to this world and she needs his care and love the other way he can give her. They work and to hell with everyone else around them. I know Elsa’s family cares for her deeply but really it’s her decision and her decision alone.
The part that really got to me, as much as I want HEA for everyone the dark twisted side of me devoured the alt ending and craved every minute of it. I found my little corner to read and was oh so very satisfied. I always want an insight to the how everyone is after everything is settled but with Victor and Elsa I enjoyed the ending that Ms D left us with.
You always leave me satisfied and yet still want more, you evil woman
Return to Grace Streets will make you think and over think everything. I know Elsa is a smart woman but when Victor aka Mr. Black ended things in the last book; I was torn in still loving this man with his dark side to hating him with such passion when he hurt her. Now, I think I’m as fucked in the head as Mr. Black is. Being one of his chapters may might be the brightest thing I ever wanted but the experience he could give me is something I do never even fathom.
In a very twisted way Victor and Elsa are made for one another. He needs her to balance and archer him to this world and she needs his care and love the other way he can give her. They work and to hell with everyone else around them. I know Elsa’s family cares for her deeply but really it’s her decision and her decision alone.
The part that really got to me, as much as I want HEA for everyone the dark twisted side of me devoured the alt ending and craved every minute of it. I found my little corner to read and was oh so very satisfied. I always want an insight to the how everyone is after everything is settled but with Victor and Elsa I enjoyed the ending that Ms D left us with.
You always leave me satisfied and yet still want more, you evil woman
January 5, 2015
This was totally worth waiting for! These characters have become my favorites from this author. The chemistry is smoking hot, the sex scenes are original, the BDSM element feels genuine.... There is an actual plot and I always love the alpha male that has a twisted past and a blazing intelligence and deep down really wants a woman who submits in the bedroom but holds her own everywhere else. I also truly appreciate that this story was told in the two volumes required to tell it, instead of dragging it out over multiple books just for revenue (ahem, Sylvia Day and others.)
I am a big fan of this author and have read everything she has written. Her writing chops have really developed since her first books, and she just keeps getting better. However, the beta readers should have caught the typos or else she should hire a new editor!! There is no excuse for the wrong pronoun or words left out if multiple readers are seeing it before it goes live. I would love to beta-read for Ella to prevent this and allow her all the credit she deserves as a writer. I look forward to whatever she produces next.
I am a big fan of this author and have read everything she has written. Her writing chops have really developed since her first books, and she just keeps getting better. However, the beta readers should have caught the typos or else she should hire a new editor!! There is no excuse for the wrong pronoun or words left out if multiple readers are seeing it before it goes live. I would love to beta-read for Ella to prevent this and allow her all the credit she deserves as a writer. I look forward to whatever she produces next.
December 16, 2015
The Journey that was Victor and Elsa left me drained, but hopeful for their future. When I first began the journey with these two, I was angry, anxious and mostly out of breath. In the second part of their journey, my emotions ran the gamut. From jaw-dropping, to anger, to sadness, to hopeful, back to anger, then tears and more tears,and then MORE breath-holding.
My feelings were all over the place with these two. I will say one though, if you called Elsa weak, I'd have to say you're wrong on all counts. I think took the strength of an elephant to have put up with the shit Victor doled out. I mean a weaker person would not have given two f**ks about Victor's success or failure in life. I think that that's is the purest form of unconditional love there is. Or maybe...
At any rate, Grace Street and Return to Grace Street are going in my best read books collection. I would do you well to read them, too. Ella's covers are always a treat and this one is up there. And she can make you fall in love with characters, even though logic dictates you should hate them. Great job once again. Ms. Ella Dominguez. A MUST READ!!!
My feelings were all over the place with these two. I will say one though, if you called Elsa weak, I'd have to say you're wrong on all counts. I think took the strength of an elephant to have put up with the shit Victor doled out. I mean a weaker person would not have given two f**ks about Victor's success or failure in life. I think that that's is the purest form of unconditional love there is. Or maybe...
At any rate, Grace Street and Return to Grace Street are going in my best read books collection. I would do you well to read them, too. Ella's covers are always a treat and this one is up there. And she can make you fall in love with characters, even though logic dictates you should hate them. Great job once again. Ms. Ella Dominguez. A MUST READ!!!
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