Written over a decade later "The Return: Nightfall" () picks up where the last novel left off with Elena now in the care of Stefan. Damon has become possessed by the evil fox-demon Shinichi and his twin sister Misao who have been invading the town using mystical and evil Malach. Elena struggles to adjust back to her human form after having spent so much time in the spirit world. She later changes back to her human self but simultaneously loses her angel powers. Stefan is captured by the possessed Damon who later lures Elena and Matt in a brutal trap. After saving Damon from the horrible Malach that has taken over his body the duo take on Shinichi and Misao who are planning and killing Bonnie and Meredith. After saving her friends Elena embarks on a journey with Matt and Damon to free Stefan from the brutal Dark Dimension.