WOW! I have few words – and nothing but praise – for last night’s return episode of The Vampire Diaries! Our favourite characters of Mystic Falls exploded back onto the screen with somehow even more power and intensity than that with which they left us before the holidays! I don’t want to spoil anything for those who haven’t seen it yet, so I’ll be as vague with my praise as possible! 😉

First, HUGE props to the cast for yet another episode filled with electrifying performances across the board. There wasn’t a single slow moment where I could take a breather, nor was I ever not on edge from the episode’s opening segment to its final closing scene. I think I need to give an extra special shout-out to our leading lady, Nina Dobrev (Elena) and the always fun to watch Ian Somerhalder (Damon) for some of the most heart-wrenching and quietly emotional moments I’ve ever seen packed into a single episode. In fact, we got to see some pretty amazing performances from all of the regulars showcased last night – Paul Wesley (Stefan), Steven R McQueen (Jeremy), Kat Graham (Bonnie), Michael Trevino (Tyler), Joseph Morgan (Klaus), and Matthew Davis (Alaric). Everyone had a huge part to play in the events of the episode, and every single one of the actors turned in some truly magnificent performances. Even the smallest glance seemed heavy with meaning, and each one of those people made the entire episode incredibly enjoyable to watch. I’ve kept it on my PVR just so I can watch it a few more times before next week!

In addition to the acting, the plot got shoved forward in a number of ways, and I found that, once the end credits began to roll, I felt breathless with anticipation to see what happens next. What has Stefan got planned, and will he really let Damon help? What are the consequences of their actions toward Jeremy? How much is Tyler really aware of, and will Klaus continue to stay one step ahead of our heroes? Will Alaric find an excuse to land himself in the hospital so he can talk to that hot nurse again? 😉

And what of the Stefan/Elena/Damon love triangle? No matter how much it shifts, it still manages to stay triangular! Now it’s shifting again, and only time will tell what the repercussions of last night’s actions will be.

An amazing return to an intense season, and I can not wait for more! Welcome back, Vampire Diaries!