Once again resigned to her fate as a spinster, Eleanor is unhappily alone — until Dublin Helos reappears on her doorstep with an offer she can’t refuse.
This time, the stakes are higher than ever, and as the true extent of Dublin’s deception is revealed, Eleanor is forced to choose between trusting the one man she should fear above all else — or risk losing her soul, and heart, in the process.
I am a quirky writer from the US who dabbles in dark, paranormal and contemporary romance. My stories aren't always typical, but contain a little something for everyone.
3.5 stars. Another positive 3 star rating. I have some mixed feelings, but overall I enjoyed the romance.
I don't think I've ever read a romance like this one. Dublin was my favorite character in this book. Cold, calculated, aloof. Yet he redeems himself for Ellie:
“Love is an archaic concept, I must admit.” Dublin sighed, brushing his lips against my throat as he spoke. “But I suppose we could name it that. What I feel for you. Love, in a sense.”
There's subtext to his characterization that comes out through his actions, not words. I think his insults to Ellie's appearance in the last book was just him being an ass. He didn't know how to handle his attraction to Ellie and insults came easy to him. I also got the sense he wanted Ellie to recognize on her own his dedication to her, without having to spell it out. Though he does make much needed confessions:
“Do you want to know why? Because if my affections were the result of some twisted curse, I imagine I’d be easily wooed by a creature like your sister. I’d succumb with no resistance, hypnotized. But you…” Step by step, he advanced on me and there was no escape. “I resist you, and you tempt me further. There is no mindless surrender. You claw your way through me like poison. There is no ease with you. I’m tormented. In lust, you torment. In pain, you torment. In happiness even…you torment me.”
I liked that both characters came from old money. Their banter & flirting with one another was 'proper' in a charming way. With the ugly duckling trope, I actually appreciate Ellie never made a huge transformation into a swan. She stays herself, and Dublin slowly reveals he loves her as herself.
I have mixed feelings about other elements of the story. For whatever reason I became less engaged in the secret society aspect and plot. I was more invested in the romance between Dublin & Ellie. I occasionally skimmed because of the uneven pacing. Otherwise this was a good read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
“I gave you your life, Eleanor. I could concede that much. But your body? I don’t remember relinquishing my hold over it.”
Was definitely a journey to get through this book. My favorite parts were definitely the romantic ones, which were still pretty rare, but at least we finally got a confession out of him😅
“Love is an archaic concept, I must admit.” Dublin sighed, brushing his lips against my throat as he spoke. “But I suppose we could name it that. What I feel for you. Love, in a sense.”
He's not the most romantic or sweet hero, but he's loyal, and uber protective (well, from other people) and possessive, so I'll take what I can get😅. I'm glad he started softening for the heroine at times, even if it was just for a bit, but those times definitely gave me more hope for the future about what kind of lover and father he will turn out to be, which brings me to my next point, which is how disappointing it is that we don't even get to see him as a father or into their future together😭 like we went though this whole book for THAT moment, and the author deprived us of it😤.
I am happy that we finally get a HEA, because there were times I HIGHLY doubt we would, and they were heartbreaking moments, but fck I want to see more moments of them finally acting like parents and acknowledging that she's pregnant😭 the very, VERY, few moments where they talked or thought about the baby were so cute too, so I'm honestly low-key mad that there weren't more moments, or at least an epilogue, which I would probably have given this book 5 stars for.
Besides that, the plot itself was just okay. It did drag just a bit because of all the annoying riddles and secrets, and honestly, I was confused AF most of the time. Add into the story being non-stop go go go, where the characters are constantly moving or something is constantly wrong, I felt like I was just getting dragged in multiple directions, and I really wish everything would have slowed down for once. I was still entertained, but the pacing could have been better.
Overall, I did thoroughly enjoy this duet, although it could have been just a bit better at times. I liked that it was a unique take on vampire romance, add in a little Breaking Dawn vibes but with a lovable jerk as a hero instead (more of a jerk than lovable though). I'm also glad no one's personalities changed much either, especially because it wouldn't make sense for the hero to all of a sudden change after 500 years, so it was more realistic. They did have growth too, finally, even if it was only a bit, but it was good enough for me at least, although I'm not sure how others will feel about it🤔 Either way, I definitely recommend still!
Waiting for this book to be published is like waiting for Hell to freeze over. I wish Lana would share some updates on Chain Me... 🤔
. [spoiler] So finally, after 5 years, I got my hands on this book. I really remember loving the first book. It was pure dark intrigue and mystery. So many questions unanswered at the end of book 1, I expected a lot from this book.
The first quarter of this book felt like Eleanor and Dublin have been married for 50 years and constant bickering about nothing. Eleanor's angst got on my nerves. Literally nothing happened in the first half of the book. After 50%-ish, Dublin warms up to Eleanor but it feels fake. The blurb does not do justice to the story at all.
I'm disappointed. DNF 70%. I do appreciate Lana bringing out the sequel though, even after all this time! [/spoiler]
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I've been waiting 2 years for the sequel to come out and it didn't disappoint. My 3.5 stars is due to the fact that some of the questions that I had either weren't completely answered or were rushed, but that could be attributed to the fact that I forgot most of the details of the first book during this long wait. I would recommend re-reading the first book before reading Chain Me.
I can't wait anymore to read the sequel to drain me. I loved drain me and would love to know more about the story and our characters ❤❤hoping to reading it soon
DRAINed - CHAINed & SINfully BEAUTIFUL! The emotions that plague me throughout this beautifully written read was intoxicating and draining. The drama and nerve rattling twists had my heart pounding with raw gritty eyes from being glued to my kindle with an insatiable need to fill a void deep within my romantic heart and dreamy mind. It's so darn edgy and twisted with raw breath taking emotions that made me feel lonely, happy and searing pain infused with hunger, betrayal, angst, danger and passion that after all had been read I didn't quite know how to feel. I wanted to be happy but then a sadness clouded my heart leaving me sulking wanting more. I love this series and wouldn't change a word but my begging romantic heart just can't let Ellie & Dublin go. So fingers crossed maybe an Epilogue of sorts will be in the works to help calm the sad yet satisfying ending Chain Me left me with. It's dark hot and sinfully twisted that was impossible to put down.
I have loved this series ever since I first read Drain Me years ago when it was on Wattpad. I have loved that book so much that I have read it at least 3 times. I never thought I’d get a sequel, let alone one with a happy ending. I’m so glad that Eleanor and Dublin finally got to live the life they deserve and I got to witness their relationship bloom before my eyes.
Chain Me is an impressive sequel to the Drain Me book written in 2014. Yes I had been waiting patiently for the continuation of Dublin and Eleanor's journey through vampire contracts, family secrets, terminal illnesses, and the possible future that they could have together. And yes I may have emailed/texted the author a few times about the sequel, needing my Dublin fix.
"I want you, Eleanor Gray..."
And with that statement being said, I absolutely loved Dublin for putting himself out there with Eleanor and taking care of her personal safety since she had no regard for her own well being. Her character could be described as the 'tragic comic relief' to Dublin's high strung, stoic demeanor which cracks when the two are together. In both books we learn of Dublin's very violent/evil history that he has tried to move on from by resisting the urges to become the monster he once was. Enter Eleanor and the poor vampire just losses his sanity. I do think that in the beginning she had entered into the contract with Dublin so she could 'have some thrills' before her time expired. She lived a boring life and had nothing to lose. As for Dublin he had street cred to lose in the big, bad vampire world by being with her and trying to remain distant with his growing feelings towards the spinster. It is stressful at times feeling Dublin's tenuous hold on Eleanor being threatened as the 'monsters' in the vampire world have her on their radar.
It was frustrating (and heartbreaking) at times when Eleanor repeatedly thought that it must be a game or joke for Dublin to want her. She is good at belittling herself since almost everyone around her, family included, had put down her appearance to a point where I can understand why she wanted to be 'invisible'. She is anything but invisible to Dublin and I think she becomes the center of his existence. As their intimacy continues to grow Dublin becomes the caregiver when she is to sick to care for herself. Without calling it a committed relationship out loud it is evident that both are performing the roles of boyfriend/girlfriend. And I feel like poor, smitten Dublin would find it much harder to walk away from her then for Eleanor to leave him since she's got her hostile cat Mr. Tinkles to take care of. That cat is a mess!
The Ellie Gray chronicles is a remarkable, emotional love story that I hope Lana Sky will continue. I have fallen in love with Dublin and Eleanor's characters and the human/vampire world that they inhabit and I am greedy enough to ask for more please! Thank you Lana for making my year by releasing this satisfying sequel!
I was addicted and thoroughly entertained. It’s a sign when I sneak reading breaks at work. I liked Ellie a lot. Initially, she was a bit too prim and proper but very soon her real colours showed through and I liked her backbone and her poking of the bear- namely Dublin. I laughed out loud several times- even in public. I liked how she lied with her mouth but her interactions with Dublin were multilayered. He spoke volumes with his eyes and always knew when she lied. It was reminiscent of The Cruel Prince in this way- they never said what the meant but you knew by their actions. Their chemistry and banter were spot on and her inner voice (and that of her dead mother’s) helped form the depth of the story and her personality. It was so good! I wanted to read it again right away- knowing I missed some nuances give I read it so quickly.
The danger quality added to the story. I liked the other characters—Yulia, Raphael, especially Dmitri, but even the lesser characters like Saskia and Mikhail were interesting.
The ending came quick. I kept checking as we came close —- how was this going to resolve? But of course-it ended like it should have— I was satisfied but would have liked more... great job!
Oct 8, 21- reread. 4.5 stars.
It was good. It felt a little long close to the end of book 1 when I was pulled in multiple directions with a bunch of good books calling to me but then it picked up and I was sucked in again.
Book 2 was really great. I loved the little surprise. Jealous Dublin is extremely appealing and his tender moments with Ellie were just lovely. I liked learning more about his background and meeting Dmitri-who was extremely interesting and sly. Ellie was still pretty funny throughout. I liked how it all worked out even though it felt a bit rushed at the end. It says something when I managed to finish it when a bunch of new releases distracted me not to mention my crazy work schedule.
Dark, dangerous and delicious, I read both books over the span of a day and night. I couldn't have imagined a better ending! Can't wait to read more from this author
Chain Me (The Ellie Gray Chronicles Book 2) by Lana Sky
Eleanor (Ellie) Gray is still the dowdy Gray sister and she feels as if she always will be. A reclusive heiress who only ventures from the walls of Gray Manor to search for a ghost.
Dublin Helos is tall, blonde, beautiful and a broker of souls. He is cold to the touch with a temperament to match and who smells like winter.
Eleanor has been searching for any sign of Dublin ever since he disappeared. Following clues like breadcrumbs leads her to dead end after dead end. She goes to all his old haunts but comes up with nothing. After a meeting that doesn’t go according to plan, she thinks she sees a ghost but what she finds is a monster from her past. Dublin tried to stay away from her, he really did. When he comes back and finds that she is in danger yet again, he can’t help but step in. What happens when finding him brings up more questions than answers? When she does find out the truth will she stay, or will she run? Running is what Eleanor is good at, but Dublin is better at the chase.
Eleanor came to terms about dying like she thought she was supposed to until she meets Dublin and he opens her eyes to a world she never thought was possible. Instead of wanting to die, she wants to survive and live a life with him. The difference you see in Dublin with the first and second book made my heart hurt in so many ways. He was numb before he met her, and she melted his cold dead heart. She made him feel again and wasn’t ready for it. He took care of her and protected her when no one else would. They both think they are not good enough for the other. She has been in her sister’s shadow for so long that she doesn't feel beautiful. He feels like he is the monster she called him in the beginning but how can he be a when he has saved her and kept her safe? Two injured souls looking to belong.
Here we fucking go—book 2. I’m halfway through, and the plane scene is exactly what I wanted. Thank fuck they finally have a tender moment together. I’m swooning, turned on, and just loving it so far. I can forgive every shitty thing that happened before this, including Ellie constantly stuttering like an idiot, as long as they keep moving forward like this. Also, please don’t let it be true that he fucked Georgie. That would be unacceptable.
update: Now I’m utterly bewildered and confused—my head feels like it’s been fucked raw by words I can’t even begin to recognize. These characters are speaking in riddles, and it’s driving me nuts. I can’t understand a single thing they’re trying to say without first being thrown into a maze of riddles.
update: It feels so all over the place sometimes. Though I feel like this one is better because I get to see Ellie and Dublin becoming more like lovers. And the plot twist—confusing, alright—but I think I understand most of it. I also feel like there are still some plot holes here. I like Mero, though; that sad, brooding character is just my cup of tea. I love seeing a man go miserable without his lover. What a tragically fitting end for him
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Chain Me is the 2nd installment of The Ellie Gray Chronicles series, its a book that i have been waiting for for over 3 years, ever since i first read (Drain Me) the first installment in the series.
I was so excited to get my hands on it and to finally find out what happens next to two of the best written characters that i had ever read about, and i am so happy because this sequal delivered, it had everything that i hoped for and more.
As per usual Lana's writing style is addictive, smart and full of twists and turns that just sucks you in and keeps suprising you with every flick of the page, the character development for Ellie and Dublin was done perfetly and i loved all of their interactions with each other and how they grew and changed so much, i also loved all the other charchters involved especially Yulia and Raphael and was intreaged by them and wanted to learn more about them as well.
Also The ending of the book was perfect and soo worth all the wait.
This is the second book in The Ellie Gray Chronicles, a Dark Vampire Romance. Eleanor and Dublin's story is original, addictive, and intriguing. OMG! I love these characters! This is my favorite installment in the duet, and a great conclusion to their story. They are both complex characters. Dublin is an intriguing vampire, secretive, ruthless, and dark. He is an amazing antihero. Eleanor is a wonderful character. She is all at once, vulnerable and naive / strong and reckless. Good thing Dublin is there for her. She is a handful to take care of, even for Dublin! They are opposites attract, but they are more than perfect together. I love them both! The gothic world building is dark and complex. The storyline is captivating, filled with danger, and twists and turns. Bree Elain did a superb job with the narration. If you like original ghotic paranormal romance, this one is definitely for you.
Chain me is the sequel to Drain me and you must read this first before continuing. I hadn’t jumped on this book years ago so was happy to read them both back to back without the wait... Now to the review...Eleanor and Dublin continue to take us on a merry go round of feelings, and there’s more than enough suspense, steam & darkness to keep you turning the pages. That being said, I did find Eleanors self loathing a bit hard at times, and just wanted to shake her. Dublin still continues the hot/cold routine for most of this book, either that or I didn’t feel the connection as much as I’d like, however it’s still a really enjoyable read if a good vampire story is your kryptonite & I think even if you had to wait for this sequel you’d be pretty happy with the ride Lana has taken you on.
What an epic conclusion to Ellie and Dublin's story. A dark and captivating read / listen that has all the twistedness you would come to expect from Lana Sky. This story will rock your world, with an ending you will never see coming! Ellie and Dublin are doomed from the very beginning and there is no hope to be found - but that doesn't stop Dublin. Ellie is in denial and she can't even come to grips with her "cancer / tumor". I love to hate to love Dublin - he's sweet but hard and sensual and protective and omg! This is one of the best sequels with the most epic conclusion I've read! Incredibly written with great narration - I loved the ending but at the same time I never wanted it to end...gimmie more!
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review. *This review is based on the audio version of this read
Chain Me is the second instalment in The Ellie Gray Chronicles by Lana Sky. It is a gripping paranormal romance with vampires, mystery, tension, chemistry, spice, suspense, emotion, angst, drama, agendas, high stakes, heartache, danger, and surprising developments. After everything that has happened, Ellie Gray has once again resigned herself to her fate, and a lonely life- until Dublin makes her an offer she can’t refuse. But can he really be trusted? What happens makes for a captivating conclusion to this duet. But I am left with a few questions, which I hope means there will be more books coming- perhaps from different characters perspectives ---- like from Georgie, and Yulia? Ooooh, I sure hope so. I will need to investigate this possibility…..so stay tuned. Happy Reading…
Right after I finished Drain Me I knew I needed to instantly get Chain Me, I couldn't wait to continue Dublin and Ellie's story. ❤😍
I loved it, long story short, I loved it. Im sad its over cause its so good, one of my favorite Lana Sky books, for sure, but ugh im sad its over. I want more! I wanna see Lana Sky do another paranormal story as this one was Top Knotch.
I love Ellie and Dublin. I think Dublin has made the top list of my favorite Lana Sky Male Character (him and Dante from Cresendo). He's so sweet to Ellie and would trade his LITERAL soul to keep her safe. Ugh, an amazing follow up to Drain Me!
I still wish I could see more into the world of Ellie and Dublin, but at least they got a happy ending.
I will keep it short. But I was quite disappointed in this sequel. I thought the plot was flawed. I nearly laughed when mr Twinkle ended up being Adrara the witch, and she simply gave Eleanor a ring to counter the curse that made up the whole story. Gave me Spirited Away vibes, without it being Spirited Away.
Also why was Mero in the Gray tomb? It’s a shame because I loved the first Drain Me. Maybe due to me being younger. I just felt like this sequel was all over the place. Many things left untold making me wonder what was the point of mentioning it in the first place. For instance what is actually the purpose of this François? Even Dmitri’s story is scraped over.
A little disappointed but it’s a nice read for the Eleanor - Dublin romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
FINALLYYYYY... We got a confession from Dublin. I loved Dublin more in this, though he was closed off per se there were moments where he was soft towards Ellie. Gwadd... He's just so menacing, utterly possessive. I loved that we got romantic moments though they were very less, I enjoyed them none the less. I was really fucking glad that they go their HEA cuz there were times that wasn't guaranteed.
I'm giving this a 3 star, because I felt dragged in different directions regrading some things, like everything was happening in a blur. The plot was okay, But I felt like it was full like go,go,go into full speed that sometimes I got confused what I was reading with so much of riddles, secrets, characters and past tense. Wanted to love this one more but something was missing for me
I waited for years for this book and Lana Sky did not disappoint. I read Drain Me about two weeks ago to prepare and have a fresh mind for this book. CM was nothing like I imagined. There were secrets and things added that I was definitely not expecting but with Lana Sky, you can always expect the unexpected. Ellie and Dublin's story is one for the books and if you were a fan of them in DM then you will melt at their chemistry in CM. I would love to see more of their story and maybe see a spinoff with Raphael's story or even Georgie's own series. I can't wait for everyone to read this book and fall in love with Ellie and Dublin even more.
This is the second book in Dublin and Eleanor’s story and you need to read book one, Drain me first. I found it almost too easy to get swept up into this book and I thought that these characters were just incredibly compelling and complex. The story line is skillfully crafted and entices and bedevils you with an intense combination of powerful emotions, drama, sizzling steam, edge of your seat danger, nail-biting suspense and stunning twists that have all been enrobed in a decadent layer of rich, sinful darkness to form a absolutely delicious book and series that delivers a romance is beyond epic! This is my frank, freely posted review.
A slow torturing start. I hated it as I was reading it. Ellie was so annoying and the dynamic between her and Dublin was chafing. But once you get to a point in the book, I’m not sure if there was a better way to go about it. The annoying self doubt and weakness made sense. And once you are past that, which was about 80% through the book, it picked up and started to get good. Maybe the author could have condensed the whole annoying part and focused on the storyline of the last 20%. I would definitely give it 4stars if the beginning wasn’t so hard to get through.
After reading the first book I was not excited to read this one just because the first book dragged on for so long. But this book was so much better, the story was much more fun and exciting to follow. There was more romantic moments and overall the better book of the two. The only thing I would have wanted more of was the world building, some things like her being turned was talked about but never really tools how. Some small things like that and I still felt like at the end that I wanted more of a conclusion,because not all question had been answered. But aside for that I really liked this book.
Wanted to love this one more but something was missing for me. I love Lana Sky’s other work. I am still giving this a 3.5/4 though as it had some amazing parts but wasn’t sure if this wanted to be twilight or dark. It was light then dark. I listened to the audio version though and while the narrator was great she was very cheery. Sounds weird I know and I think that was to show the main characters utter lack of fear. Still liked this though and dont let my musings put you off. I think others will love and like I said I still enjoyed.
I loved the first part of this 2 book series, but with this final part i can call it a masterpiece. It is a gem from the pen of a brilliant storyteller. A delicious dark love touched with otherworldly magic. Doomed tragic despairing the story goes through a gamut of emotions and I felt every one of them as I sped through the pages. A love and a struggle like no other, what an amazing story. This is really a must read and deserves the 5 stars I gave it.
Oh how I love hate Dublin. He is the biggest ass you love to hate. I was confused as to why Ellie was sick...but then had the big ah hah moment. This story is so well written you find out so much about Dublins past. Ellie comes into her own and if any vampire deserves a HEA its definitely Dublin and Ellie. I hope your not done with Dublin and Ellie and we get more of them in then future but for a now this twisted dark love story will suffice. Thank you Lana again for another phenomenal story!