Three vampires and I bonded for survival. It was supposed to save us. Instead, it's tearing me apart.
Our connection grows stronger every day, but so does my guilt. Hudson wants that second chance. Jax won't even look at me after I shattered his heart. And Nico? He's still carefully guarding his secrets.
I tell myself I can't fall for them. Vampires murdered my mother. No matter how much they tempt me, I can't bear the thought of her hating me for eternity.
Then I discover the horrifying truth: her ghost isn't at peace. She's trapped in the infernal realm, suffering endless torture while I've been falling for the very creatures I was trained to hunt.
There's only one way to free her soul, and it means descending into hell itself.
My three vampires insist on following me into a realm where no one returns alive.
As we face down demon after demon, I start to trust these three vampires. But it's my heart I'm not sure I should trust...
What happens when the monsters you swore to hate become the mates you can't live without?
To Hell and Back is the second book in the complete trilogy, Bound to the Vampires. This steamy paranormal romantasy delivers forced proximity in the most dangerous realm imaginable, where blood bonds deepen with every battle and three vampires will prove their devotion by walking through hell itself.
Addicted to stories without love triangles, Traci Lovelot writes fantasy/paranormal romance books featuring polyamorous Why Choose relationship styles where our leading lady lives HEA with ALL the guys. Because why choose?
Traci devours chocolate, writes under a pen name, and loves traveling to refill her imagination.
Hit the Follow Author button so Goodreads will email you every time Traci Lovelot releases a new book!
4.5/5 No Good Intentions is action-packed! Part two in this three-part series, it will keep you on your toes throughout, then leave you at one hell of a cliffhanger. Caught between a rock and a hard place, Mel and her coven mates stand alone against the DHA and are forced into the depths of the infernal realm. Even if they survive the journey, the chances of shifting the DHA’s views on vampires are low, but they are left with no choice.
This book has pushed us outside the enemies-to-lovers territory that book one lived in – Mel no longer holds the same feelings toward vampires, now seeing them as fellow witches instead of demons that must be put down. Instead, there is a focus on the rebuilding of Jax and Nico’s affections, a further rekindling of Mel and Hudson’s relationship, and the burgeoning feelings between Jax and Mel. Overarching it all is Nico’s refusal to acknowledge his attraction to Mel, and he holds himself apart, even from Jax.
If you like detailed descriptions of magical battles, this book is perfect. There are many intricacies in the workings of this universe – the different types of magic, how it is used, and rituals. Additionally, so much thought was put into the various demon types the coven faces in the infernal realm. Grab this book for the magic, stay for the romance.
Things heat up in book two, coming out hot right from the gates. The vampires still have that aphrodisiac bite that equates to an instant orgasm, which Mel accepts more than once. This book contains MF, MFM, and MMF scenes.
The cliffhanger on No Good Intentions is brutal, with multiple balls being left in the air. Luckily, the final book in the trilogy is set to be released in the first half of this year, so we will not be forced to wait too long to find where they fall.
There are different types of books: some of them are difficult to read, some of them just come and go without touching you, but some of them stay with you for a long time.
I love books with a stong FMC, who knows what she wants in life (even if sometimes ahe's confused about it), who stands her ground when needed, who is kind, loyal and caring. Mel is just like that. She had a lot of bad history with vampires, but she still bonded with them. It's interesting to see how the relationships that began in the first book are evolving in the second one.
Male characters are well-described. Their history is getting clearer with every chapter. We have a chance to know them and understand them better. And, knowing their history, we can see why they made different decisions. All characters are complicated just like people around us.
The plot is captivating and fast-paced. This book ends with a one hell of a cliff-hanger. But the author assures us that the third book is coming soon, so a little suspense won't hurt.
So, if you love paranormal/fantasy books with great characters, a lot of steam and a wonderful plot, pick this series right now!
I've recieved an ARC copy via StoryOrigin in exchange for an honest review.
Grab this book, now! If you thought book 1 was action packed, steamy, and full of twists and turns you definitely haven't seen anything yet! Mel continues to bond with her Coven as the prepare then enter the Infernal realm. What will they encounter? Is it possible for everyone to survive? What about what secrets lie within? Is Nico going to finally open up? I can't wait for book 3. Definitely a must read!
No good intentions at Traci Lovelot Delicious reverse harem like always by Traci Lovelot she does not disappoint me. You follow Mel and her men and the adventures they command. Definitely recommended, of course, if you haven't read anything by her yet. Our fae queen is a very nice Reverse harem to start with.
I am enjoying this series so far. It is entertaining me and the cliffhanger at the end of this one has me begging for more. The men in the harem are sexy and I am really enjoying the development of the relationship between Mel and her men.
I only had the book for two days so I am a little late. Sorry!! What a book!! What a story!! So much going on. So much action. I was engrossed from beginning to end but what an ending. There is also love and relationships building but Nico pretends he hasn't any feelings for the others. Loved it but I need to know what happens next.
I LOVED charmed and i LOVED buffy the vampire slayer so I LOVE this crossover with Mel's vampire coven series. You get all the good stuff witches, vampires, demons, deceit, action, war, coven's and so much more. I already loved the first book in this series and it gets even better in the second one. We pick up with their newly bonded coven ( temporarily ) and they are yet again being pushed into a new mission if they want to stay together and alive :D I am obsessed with the Kijo twins and Nico, i can't choose between who i like the most and the best thing is i don't even have to! How they always banter with eachother, the way they push eachothers buttons to get them to admit their feelings, is everything. I am very excited to continue reading and see where the story takes them and if they can stay together and stay alive.
Mel and her coven are facing an impossible decision that has implications far beyond them. While trying to outmaneuver the corrupt DHA, they are also attempting to form new bonds among themselves. It was a great story and I can’t wait till the next one. I did, however, toss my phone at the cliffhanger! To be fair, I was warned.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
ARC from Author - NO spoilers - Bk 2 in Trilogy with cliffhanger! NOT standalone, please read Bk 1. Adult read, lots of spice with MM within RH, Vampire, Witch, Demon, portals, second chance, biting, twins, World building.
I have been on tenterhooks waiting for Book 2 to come out since finishing the first, would the second be as good? would my high expectations be met? what about Nico? oh Nico! Could Mel truly overcome her hatred of Vampire? Well my anxiety was pointless, I was blown away by NGI! The first book was plot heavy, setting the scene and introducing you to the Realm with low Spice this is a balanced installment with ALL the feels. There is relationship progression but I am not divulging with whom or even by how many!
Mel, Hudson, Jax and Nico are forced into situations where they fight for survival, have to face their past both physically and mentally, decisions are made, for good or bad? Time will tell and you are with them every step of the way and it is one hell of a journey!
The World Building is fantastic, the differing aspects so atmospheric and some new characters just grab you by the heart strings and don't let go.
If you cannot tell by now, this has become one of my all time favourite series to date and I am champing at the bit for the release of Book 3 because Oh Boy! this cliffhanger is a biggy!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
After reading the first book, a match made in hell, I immediately bought the second book. The first had a grip on me and I needed to know how to plot and the characters relationship developed next. So far the twists have actually surprise me when normally I’m pretty good at guessing. In the first book there were definitely a few times where I guessed correctly but it didn’t bother me that to me it was “obvious “. Traci is so good at sprinkling pieces of backstory. It’s so hard to stop reading. The way Traci describes everyone’s feelings is amazing, sure because they all kind of keep their feelings in there is a fair amount of miscommunication happening, but they work it out mostly. I had no idea that Mel would undergo this big change. If I were to think ahead I would’ve expected it much later not when it happened. Honestly love, love, love .
This book had me by the fingernails. I wanted to know what happened next so badly I couldn’t put it down (expect, for you know, work). The coven is getting hit hard, the new characters add lots of depth, and Mel is learning just how badly she messed up in her BC life (before coven). Gah……I want to know what happens next so badly!
Book filled with crazy twists and turns, a teensy bit of angst and surprising ending. Definitely can’t wait to find out what happens to Mel and her coven! Love Traci’s books and writing! Keep them coming!
omg!the cliff hanger!!I'm so glad already have the last book in the trilogy!!can't wait to read when mel finally gets to have her way with all 3 of her coven mates!and hopefully saves her mom in the process.
I absolutely love Mel and her men. This coven has faced many obstacles and overcome all of them. The ending to this book was killer and I can’t wait for the final book.
Wow!! Just wow!! I don't even know what to say. I really enjoyed getting to know the characters more in this book. There's so much going on and that ending........
To Hell and Back, the second book in Traci Lovelot’s series, builds on the compelling foundation of A Match Made in Hell, taking readers deeper into a world where love, power, and darkness intertwine. This sequel intensifies the stakes with richer lore, heightened romantic tension, and a fresh set of supernatural dangers, all while exploring the evolving relationships and conflicts of Mel and her intriguing counterparts. Lovelot delivers a book that’s engaging, suspenseful, and filled with emotional depth—a solid entry that both expands the story’s universe and develops its characters.
Plot and World-Building In this installment, Mel finds herself entwined with a powerful vampire faction, leading to complications that force her to confront difficult choices and latent desires. Lovelot’s world-building is even more immersive here, with additional insight into the vampire hierarchies, their ancient customs, and their intricate politics. She skillfully crafts an atmosphere thick with tension and allure, bringing new locations and vampire strongholds to life with vivid descriptions. This book further deepens the lore introduced in the first installment, adding new supernatural elements and mysteries that give the story a sense of continuity and expansion.
Characters Mel’s character development shines in To Hell and Back, as she navigates new alliances and encounters even greater internal struggles. Her resilience and wit make her a relatable and engaging heroine, especially as she grapples with the moral ambiguity of her circumstances and her complicated attraction to those around her. The vampires themselves are richly detailed, with each character standing out due to their unique personalities, motivations, and history. Lovelot creates complex relationships between Mel and each vampire, avoiding one-dimensional romance by adding layers of psychological and emotional complexity. The central romantic tension builds in a way that’s both tantalizing and reflective of each character’s struggles, making it an intense, emotionally charged reading experience.
Themes Lovelot deftly weaves themes of loyalty, power, and identity into the storyline. Mel’s inner conflict between her humanity and her supernatural alliances is one of the most fascinating aspects of this book, as it forces her to confront what she truly values—and what she’s willing to sacrifice. Themes of forbidden love and self-discovery run strong throughout the novel, alongside explorations of trust and loyalty that are complicated by the politics of the vampire world. These themes add depth, creating a storyline that invites readers to consider the cost of power and the complexities of belonging in a world where trust is a precious commodity.
Writing Style and Pacing Lovelot’s writing is descriptive and engaging, with an atmospheric style that draws readers into every scene. Her knack for balancing romance and action is especially evident here, as the novel moves from moments of intense intimacy to suspenseful confrontations seamlessly. The pacing is mostly steady, though the book does slow down in parts as Lovelot expands on the lore and Mel’s internal conflicts. This slower pacing may feel slightly prolonged, but it also enriches the overall narrative by providing a deeper look into the characters and the intricate world they inhabit.
Why Four Stars? While To Hell and Back is a well-crafted, absorbing read, it has a few minor drawbacks. Certain plot developments are left open-ended or hinted at without much follow-up, possibly to set up future installments, which could feel unsatisfying for readers seeking resolution. Additionally, some romantic scenes, while intense and well-written, can feel repetitive, slightly detracting from the overall impact. However, these issues are relatively minor in an otherwise captivating novel that delivers on romance, character growth, and world-building.
Final Verdict For fans of the series, To Hell and Back is a rewarding continuation that elevates the stakes while adding layers of complexity to the characters and setting. With a balance of dark fantasy, romance, and supernatural intrigue, Lovelot offers a satisfying blend that keeps readers invested in Mel’s journey. This four-star sequel expands on everything that made A Match Made in Hell a great read while delving into darker, more complex territory. Lovers of paranormal romance and urban fantasy will find To Hell and Back an enthralling escape that promises even greater things to come in future installments.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I was given a digital copy, free. All opinions are my own. Wow! What a sequel! This was full of so much more of just about everything. More sexy times, bonding, danger, trouble with the DHA and surprises, I’m going to pause here to say that if you have not read the first one, don’t go any further. Go back and read the first one, it ends on a cliffhanger and this continues that story. It is so worth it.
The next mission that Demetri has for Mel and her vampire coven is equally as dangerous as running to California would be. But at least in California they would be safe, He tasks them with going into the Infernal Realm, find what is keeping the gates open and kill it if possible, bring back information if they can’t. Mel outright refuses – an untested charm and a shady DHA isn’t worth the risk on something that seems like a guaranteed suicide mission. Then while sitting on the wall she sees her mother’s ghost and discovers that she ‘s being tortured. Her mother’s ghost informs her that she can close the gates by killing the anchors.
**Tangent: It is at this point that Hudson shows how big of an ass he is by trying to emotionally manipulate Mel into going into the Infernal Realm
But, you can make sure others don’t suffer the same fate. Go with me, Mel, and I know Jax and Nico will follow. First it was the emotional blackmail asking if Mel wanted to atone for all of the vampires that she murdered. Then it was attempting to use her to get her other coven mates to go. I am not sure if there was another way to get them to go, but this? I just lost a lot of respect for Hudson. Instead of taking a step back to consider why all 3 of them were hesitant about going, he just pushed for his way-by any means necessary. End Tangent**
Each member is finding finding their way in the new coven, but Nico is still trying to keep himself apart from it all. Slowly he does start to up, giving pieces of his secret but holding on to the fear that he is just too dangerous for those he has come to love. Despite this, the coven bonds are strengthening. They are aware that he’s holding back, but decide to wait him out. With the news the Mel’s mother’s spirit is being tortured inside the infernal realm, they decided to go, but they don’t make it far before they are attacked, separated and their supplies run out. When they exit, they find that not only had they traveled further than they expected, much more time has passed. Everyone believed them to be dead. And instead of having months for their public coven joining they have days. Plus they have to crash the ceremony since the DHA has begun rounding up all of the vampires and has stripped Mel o her rank. But, that’s not the biggest surprise. Again, this ends on a cliffhanger. the first one ended on a less climatic part of the story. This one ends at a very pivotal moment, so many things are going on. There is a little bit of convenient storytelling that happens, it is noticeable but not distracting. And while the coven is in a good place with each other, I am concerned about what is going to happen next. I will be waiting -impatiently albeit- for the next one.
The madness continues in No Good Intentions, the second book in Mel's Vampire Coven series. This is one of those series that when you're not reading it, you forget exactly how epic it is, and when you pick it up again, it just blows your mind. This book was so awesome.
So Mel has grown and gotten over her prejudices about vampires, she truly believes she was wrong but it takes time. It helps that she's formed a coven with her vampires who she now totally trusts. Although, now there's even more relationship drama. Hudson has trouble adjusting, not only sharing Mel but he has a coven, not a unit so he needs to let go of the leader title. He works things out even if there was one moment when he said something mean to manipulate Mel and it pissed me off. Jackson is a dream, he is hot and adorable all rolled up in one. Because he's so easy-going and soft-spoken I forgot he has this quiet confidence that's sexy as heck. The major problem is Nico and his issues. The truth behind his aversion to forming a coven is revealed and I can understand how his thoughts would go that way but I think he still needs to give the coven a chance. It's obvious that while he's scared his heart is already in it. I hope he gets over it.
This book had, seriously, one of the best storylines. Not only in its uniqueness but the way Traci just threw plot twist after plot twist at us, I was in total shock for about a fourth of this book and constantly asking myself what is happening, and I still don't know. There were two of the biggest twists right there at the end that was full of betrayal and danger. Besides the plot, there are so many things to love about this book. I love that Nim and her coven are still an important part of the story. They bring the family aspect to the story. Also, more hellish creatures are introduced, hellbull, firestags, the cutest fox, hellsnakes, firebirds, and more. Then there's the coolest magic system which I still don't have a complete handle on. Arcane magic, innate magic, sigils, spells, charms, elementalists, and more. Just awesome.
No Good Intentions was fantastic, it gave off movie vibes. Like I was picturing everything in my head like a movie. The action scenes, the hellbeasts, those fire scenes that set this book on fire, and the magic, created a fully realized picture. I absolutely loved the plot but that ending... whyyyyyy? I know authors sometimes end on cliffhangers but why are they trying to kill their readers? This is the type of cliffhanger that's gonna drive me crazy. I need the next book and I hope the wait isn't too long.
Mel and her new vampire coven-mates are growing closer. She's come to trust them with her life. But some of them still have secrets and things holding them back from opening up fully to each other.
But their new coven is the least of their worries. The DHA has turned against them. And has sent them on a suicide mission to the infernal realm. Mel and her vampires decide to go through with the mission despite the risks, though. Because Mel needs to save her mom and they need to find a way to close the thresholds once and for all.
Mel made great strides in this one and because of liking her more, it made this one so much better.
I'm still loving the plot and the story as a whole. The world building is very rich and fascinating and I'm looking forward to seeing how it all plays out in the end.
I will say that the pacing was a little too slow in the beginning, though. It does get better later in the book, so I'm hoping the pacing in the final book will be better. We will see.
Mel and her guys are growing together and I like them all much better now. With the exception of maybe Nico, who is still very closed off from all of them. He has his reasons, and some of them are very good reasons. But I still want him to open up to them more.
The ending was a huge twist and cliffhanger! I honestly didn't expect that to happen, but I'm dying to know what happens next!
Overall definitely an improvement from the first book. I'm looking forward to what happens in the final installment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This is book number two and I feel you should read the first book to have some background to feel comfortable with this book and it characters. Mel has her own coven with three vampires, she is a witch. They are being given a rough time by the hierarchy at the demon Hunter Academy and decide to enter a rend in the fabric of time and space into the infernal realm. I don't like to give spoilers so I'll stop there. This book is well written by a seasoned author and the characters well thought out and good plot. The book is story driven and marches on at quite a pace. Now the sex scenes, well what can I say? Extremely well written, very hot some group sex as well as MM so maybe not one to be read by those with a more delicate palate to their erotica. Believe me, hot, hot, hot! The ending of the book where Mel goes into battle with an old flame leaves you on a cliff hanger and you will want to read the next book to tie up all the ends of this story. I enjoyed this book but was itching to read more.
Possibly even better than the first book; the ménage with Nico and Jax was hot, we finally got a reason for Nico’s standoffishness (although I thought it was weak tbh) but I disliked the ménage with Jax and Hudson and I foresee more of that going forward—sorry, you guys, I just can’t fathom getting a aroused with my sibling in the room, talking to me, let alone climaxing. I don’t think it’s different because they’re identical; some might say they see their sibling naked every time they look in a mirror, but I just fundamentally disagree. I actually have sisters who are identical twins, and I promise you they can tell each other apart, lol. In the mirror, in pictures, doesn’t matter. The book ends in another cliffhanger—disappointing, especially because I thought the plot was kinda meandering and coulda been wrapped up sooner if not for the 3-book planned arc.
The story picks up where book 1 left off. Not much changes (so most of my review is the same), and really I found this book a little annoying because it all felt a little slow/pointless.
Pros: The characters and their relationships (which progress in this book but still one character doesnt seem to open up AT ALL). Wasnt strickly M/F M/M. The world was also very interesting. A few details probably werent needed (sacred holidays/different types of magic... but there are details on all of the world-building in a reference section)
Cons: The politics? Seemed overly complicated. Also EVERYTHING seems to be defensive.... and the author/book constantly reminds you of why they are doing whatever it is. Once again ends on a bit of a cliffhanger.
Still really enjoying the story, i really like that the author explains/explores the fact that Nico and Mel have a similar and shared darkness. I like that Nico realizes that while Mel loves him, she also loves Jax & Hudson and wants to protect them. Even if that means protecting them from Nico, and knowing that he can trust her to do what needs to be done allows him to be vulnerable and open with her. Which makes it even deeper when the reason Nico isn’t open & vulnerable with Jax because he’s all goodness, and would put his love over his wellbeing. I think that is such a relatable concept, and i really enjoyed how their relationships were individual but they were also coming together as a unit.
Still wish the plot was deeper.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I loved to be back in Mel's story with her coven mates. Here, we start to dig in more into some of the background stories, and see the relations between all 4 coven mates deepen. I enjoyed it as much as the first book in the series, and all reverse harem lovers would likely enjoy this particular one too! Great world building, interesting characters, just enough angst and heat, and fluid writing. Wat else is there to wish for?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.