To save the two vampire brothers who love her, Elena Gilbert sacrificed her life. Now that a supernatural force has brought Elena back from the dead, all handsome and brooding Stefan wants is to keep her safe. But when he is lured away from Fell's Church, the brilliant and powerful Damon seizes the chance to defeat Elena, unaware of the danger looming over them both. An evil creature has entered the city and is gaining strength. Capable of taking over Damon's mind at any time at will, the creature is also drawn to Elena and the new power she has acquired. However, it strives for more than Elena's power: it longs for her death.