Elle Returns: The Sequel

The Elle Series #2

by Ditter Kellen

A young girl’s escape from a life of horrific abuse...and the killer from her past that continues to haunt her...

Elenore Griffin is finally free of the abuse she’s suffered most all her young life. But some demons never die, and the road to freedom is laced with a new kind of pain. To break free, Elenore must confront her troubled past head-on.But deep beneath the trauma lies something dark and dangerous.With every buried memory she unearths, Elenore finds herself more and more trapped in a web of lies and deceit, leading up to a fatal, earth-shattering collision with the killer who haunts her.This is her life. This is her story.

Genres: Thriller, Dark, Psychological Thriller, Abuse, Mystery, Mental Illness, Suspense

380 pages, Paperback

Published October 19, 2019

About the author

Ditter Kellen is the USA Today Bestselling Author of Mystery-Thriller-Suspense-Christian Thriller Novels. She loves spinning edgy, heart-pounding stories that will leave you guessing until the very end.

When she's not writing, Ditter spends her days creating hair and skincare products, using organic ingredients. Her products have been proven to work and are used by Ditter on a daily basis.

A devoted wife, mother and Christian, Ditter resides in Florida with her husband, son, and many unique farm animals. She adores French fries and her phone is permanently attached to her ear.

You can find Ditter's books and skincare products at Ditterkellen.com/shop. Or on her app, where shopping is made easier! https://rb.gy/v2786

Reviews

[Cathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

2nd book in the series and recaps the final scenes of Eleanor's escape from yet another awful situation, her return home and the discovery of what her mind has been hiding from her. I found this one less pacey than book one and a little less exciting. A situation develops to up the pace later in the story and bring Elle out of herself, but I wonder how long this story can be dragged out.

3.5 Stars

[Roxanne Bujold · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was intense. From the very first chapter, Elle Returns pulls you in and refuses to let go. It’s raw, heartbreaking, and deeply unsettling at times, but at its core, it’s a story about survival and resilience.

Elle’s journey is brutal, and reading about everything she endured was painful. But what stood out most to me was her strength. No matter how much she had suffered, she kept fighting. The author doesn’t sugarcoat anything, which makes her story feel all the more real. The message here is clear: trauma leaves scars, but it doesn’t have to define a person. Watching Elle try to reclaim her life, even when it felt impossible, was both inspiring and heartbreaking.

One of the most touching parts of the book was Elle’s relationship with Sarah, Evan’s daughter. After everything Elle had been through, she didn’t think she could ever love or trust again. But Sarah gave her a new reason to keep fighting and to believe in the possibility of happiness again. It’s a beautiful reminder that even after the worst experiences, there’s still hope for connection and healing.

That being said, one thing that didn’t completely work for me was the romance. The detective was willing to risk everything for Elle, and while I understand why she needed someone to believe in her, his feelings developed so quickly. I couldn’t help but question how realistic it was. If I were in his shoes, would I throw away my entire career and future for someone I just met? Probably not. I was rooting for Elle to find safety and a way out, but I wish their connection had been given more depth to make it feel more natural.

Despite that, Elle Returns is a gripping and emotional read. It’s not easy to get through because of the heavy themes, but it’s a powerful story that leaves an impact. If you’re looking for something intense and thought-provoking, this book is definitely worth reading, just be prepared for a tough journey.

[✴ Cindy ✴ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is for the entire trilogy.

If you liked ST Abby's Mindf*ck series, you'll probably love this series as well.

Elle is a twenty year old girl who has been abused in every way imaginable since she was eight years old. It's graphic enough to get the point across without being gratuitous. I appreciated that. The story opens with her at twenty years old and several men are missing from around their small rural town. The police suspect her father and a new detective to the town, Evan, comes to their farm to ask questions. His protective tendencies come out in full force when he sees a girl in a rag of a dress and shoes that are so worn her feet are coming out of the sides.

If I told you more, it would ruin the experience of the story. I recommend anyone who likes a survivor to triumph to read this series. And let me say that the ending had me smiling with satisfaction. I truly didn't see it coming.

[Billie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A young girl’s escape from a life of horrific abuse...and the killer from her past that continues to haunt her...
Elenore Griffin is finally free of the abuse she’s suffered most all her young life. But some demons never die, and the road to freedom is laced with a new kind of pain. To break free, Elenore must confront her troubled past head-on.But deep beneath the trauma lies something dark and dangerous.With every buried memory she unearths, Elenore finds herself more and more trapped in a web of lies and deceit, leading up to a fatal, earth-shattering collision with the killer who haunts her.This is her life. This is her story.

This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building that adds so much to the story.
Can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Carly Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elle Returns by Ditter Kellen
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Please check your trigger warnings before starting this book. In the sequel to "I am Elle", Elenore Griffin continues the harrowing journey as she seeks freedom from a life of severe abuse. Now liberated from her tormentors, Elenore confronts lingering demons from her past, unearthing buried memories that entangle her in a complex web of lies and deceit. This novel delves into themes of resilience, the enduring impact of past traumas, and the relentless pursuit of justice.

I could not start this book fast enough. The cliffhanger from "I am Elle" was driving me insane. I had to know what happened. This is another fast-paced, action-packed thriller. I was absolutely riveted. I don't want to spoil anything, but I can't recommend this series enough.

[Billie Wiley · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Elle Returns” by Ditter Kellen is an absolutely riveting sequel that takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster! Elenore Griffin's journey continues as she grapples with the aftermath of her traumatic past, and Kellen masterfully captures the raw intensity of her struggle for freedom. The plot twists are both shocking and brilliantly executed, keeping you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Kellen's ability to delve deep into the psyche of her characters makes this book not just a thriller, but a profound exploration of resilience and redemption. If you loved “I Am Elle”, you'll be blown away by “Elle Returns”. It's a must-read for anyone who enjoys a gripping, thought-provoking story!

Now on to “Elle Unleashed”!

[Vanessa · Rating 1 out of 5]

Half of the book was just repeating information given in the first book, and then it veers from the main story into a whole new story and doesn't finish either, just ends with the promise of a third book. No thanks. And these books are so short too. There's no reason to make it a series. I won't be buying the next one.

[Leanne ~ Tales From The Heart · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story picks up right from the finale of the previous book. Can Elle/Eleanor really leave her past behind or will she remain damaged? Evan needs her in more ways than one. Will a tragic event tip her over the edge or make her stronger? The author has managed to add some light to the darkness of this tale. I'm looking forward to grabbing the next in this series.

[Stephanie Rumbarger · Rating 5 out of 5]

All three books were absolutely phenomenal. Beautifully written, I really felt for Elle. I loved the characters. Highly recommend!

[Kasey Young · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75!!!! Def the Walmart version of Lana from the mindfck series

[Nadia Stephens · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elle Returns is book 2 of the Elle series By Ditter Kellen filled with suspense and twists and turns. I thought book 2 would pick up where book 1 ended but it went in a totally different direction from what I thought but it does continue from book 1. Book 2 seemed more about Elenore adapting past and her situation with Elle. This is one of those books where you have to read the set to enjoy. I would’ve given 5 stars had I got to read Elle killing someone.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Serena Buffaloe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ready to read #3 ALREADY !!!!

Wow !!!!
This book was an epic read !!! After the 1st book, I truly didn't think that Ditter Kellen could make it even More alluring . But she did !!!
This book made me feel all kind of ways . Happy , sad, expectant , hopeful. Then sad again. Then Happy !!! I hope Elle gets her Man !!!

[Buttercup1201 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elenore is finally free in part 2 of the series. We learn more about Elenore and Elle and how they deal with the memories. This book had me on edge from the beginning. Ditter Kellen has written a another wonderful traumatic thriller. Reading about what Elenore went through is heart breaking and how she manages to stay alive and fight is unbelievable.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Anuschka-Marie' · Rating 5 out of 5]

Could not put it down from the first page. Liked how Elenore tried so hard to be normal and how the detective tried to help her. But the twists in the story really kept you on your toes, not sure what will happen. Can't wait for more

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[buzy_reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elle Returns begins where I Am Elle ended with Evan walking into the graveyard basement. Elenore seeks justice for herself after years of abuse at the hands of powerful men.

Elenore’s only had the love from her father who sold her body to men who raped and abused her. From the age of eight Elenore was conditioned for a life of abuse. Elenore grew to fear men because the men that she interacted with wanted sexual favors from her.

Narrator:
Lia Frederick is a fresh name in the narrator industry. I enjoyed her performance. She brought this story and it’s characters to life. I love finding and exploring new narrators. While she’s not new to the industry she is a name I’m not familiar with. I will certainly listen to more of her audiobooks if I come across one with her name on it.

Overall:
The content is still dark and haunting, but not as bad. I didn’t react the same way I did the first time upon reading about the abuse Elenore suffered. It’s partly due to the nature of this installment focusing on the aftermath.

The sequel isn’t as much of a psychological thriller as it is a book about adapting and moving forward. I’m not disappointed just surprised. This sequel didn’t head in the direction I expected at all considering all that transpired in the previous book.

[Ashley Hedden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elle Returns: Elle Series Book Two was another great psychological thriller by Ditter Kellen. Elenore is finally free of all the abuse she’s endured in her short life. Unfortunately all the pains and demons don’t go away easily. In order for her to be free, she must face her past head-on. Beneath all her trauma lies something extremely dark and dangerous. I love reading Elle’s story and how she tries to regain control of her life. I can’t wait to read more by Ditter Kellen.

[Pat Eroh · Rating 5 out of 5]

While there was no cliffhanger in the first book, the story ended in such a manner that screamed for more. So here it is. And this one is absolutely captivating! I thought the first book was riveting but this book is more so. I did not want to put this book down. Read the first book, it is really good anyway and then read this one. You will be glad you did. This story touches on the most horrific crimes against.children. A strong stomach is necessary. But unfortunately, this is what happens in the real world. The author did a great job in both books.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Johnetta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Could not put it down!

Oh the twists and turns. Sad to have to wait for book three. At the end of book one I wasn’t sure what to expect for our detective Evan. Glad to know he’s with us as we learn more about him and Eleanor. I must admit I didn’t see the direction of this second book but I’m really enjoying it. I don’t want to give anything away, but the characters are strong, flawed, and just trying to survive. I find the book to be well written and I highly recommend you read it, but of course read book one first!

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is brilliant. I was drawn into this story from the get-go. I suggest reading the first book prior to reading this one just so you fully understand where Elle is in her life and why. I also suggest getting comfy before starting to read, because no matter how difficult the story may be at times it’s a page-turner and a book that I didn’t want to put down till I had finished it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request, and have voluntarily left this review. How does darkness grow in a person? Is it always there or is grown by mistreatment and pain. Eleanor has survived her ordeal and now she has a chance at a new life. Once again an evil man tries and may succeed to take everything away from her. Elle has different plans. You'll find yourself listen much longer then you intended as the suspense build. Looking forward to the next book.

[Scarolet Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am Elle: The Sequel: A Psychological Thriller by Ditter Kellen is a great story to read. This is a great middle story to read and I can not wait to read book number three. i recommend this story to all who love reading about thrillers and suspense.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Heather Bane · Rating 5 out of 5]

As usual Ditter Kellen delivered a great book. The story is well written and kept my attention. I definitely recommend reading.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in this series and just as good as the first one. It caught me back up and kept me along for the ride to the end. very well written . Looking to see what will be in the next one!!

[Dianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I finished the first book "I am Elle" and this sequel in one day and, although the subject matter was horrifying, I could not wait to see how or if Elle prevails. This author really pulls you in!!!! Will definitely read the third book and want to now look up other titles by Ditter Kellen.

[Beatrice Followill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Must read

In this sequel Elle finally gets a second chance at life, to be able to live without fear , Evan and Sarah fulfills a void that she needed, til Elle has to resurrect to right a wrong.

[Sharon Nolan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elle Returns

This second book is FANTASTIC just like the first book. With reading each page the Supence keeps you reading to find out what is going to happen next.
I can't wait to the 3rd book comes out
..I LOVE THIS SERIES ♡♡♡

[Brandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Roller coaster.

This book had my emotions all over the place. I can’t wait for book 3. I hope it’s a HEA.

[Stacy Fazenbaker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elle Returns is the second book in the I Am Elle series. I gave Elle Returns 4 stars. This one was not quite as good as the first, but it was still okay! I was still completely invested in the story like I was with the first book.

Elenore and Evan pick up right where they left off in Elle Returns. This time we get a little information about Evan and his past. He gets some news that changes his life. Elenore begins to adjust to a somewhat "normal" life. As normal as she can have considering what she has gone through. It is hard to say much about this one without spoiling the first in the series.

I recommend Elle Returns if you liked I Am Elle. I read both of them in just a few days, because I needed to know what happened to Elenore and Evan. Elle returns has some of the same trigger warnings as the last book, but the scenes are not quite as graphic as they were previously. Elle Returns also ends on a cliff hanger, just as the previous book did. It will leave you wanting more of the story!!

[Peter Turner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the first novel, I am Elle. but this one, Elle Returns, not quite so much but it's still well written. The opening chapters seemed a bit of a stretch of reality but after that it soon settled down. It seemed a bit shorter than the first but on a kindle it can be hard to tell how long a book is. However, when the ending came I went "where's the rest of the story" but when I saw it had 378 pages I realised that I'd stayed up late again to finish it. That by definition makes it a page-turner. This time the ending for me had an unexpected twist. I recommend this book but read them in order.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sheila's Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝐀𝐦 𝐄𝐥𝐥𝐞
This is an emotional story about Elenore, who was traumatically abused in a way no child could come back from.We first see Elenore at age 20. Her father is under investigation in the case of several local men's disappearance, and we eventually learn more about her past as the case unfolds.
Book one concludes with a cliffhanger..

𝐄𝐥𝐥𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐬
This book picks up right where the first one finishes.
Here, we find Elenore, who must confront her demons, to break free from her past, or will her mind fracture? I was totally invested in this story.

𝐄𝐥𝐥𝐞 𝐔𝐧𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝
This book brings us full circle and ends with a satisfying twist I didn't see coming.

Fans of ST. Abby's Mindf*ck will love this series.

All 3 books are available on Kindle Unlimited.