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Drake Security #2
Smolder
I was hired to protect him, but will our smoldering attraction ignite into love?
When my hot headed brother found his fated mate, a deep, aching desire opened up inside of me for my own. Everyone knows dragons are covetous, jealous… possessive. I am all of these things, but never more so than when I set my eyes on Dempsey for the first time.
Beautiful. Awkward. Sweet. Shy. Perfect. My dragon wants to wrap himself around him the moment he bumps into me outside of his antique shop. Dempsey, however, is not as keen on that idea as my inner beast is.
He hired Drake Security for protection, and he needs it even more than he realized. Unfortunately, we specialize in brute strength and burning sh*t to the ground, and the problem Dempsey has is way out of our league.
Is he my fated mate or am I just so desperate for one that I’m falling for him too fast? Either way, I’ll move heaven and hell to protect him, even if the forces that are after him are unlike anything I’ve dealt with before.
I’ve spent thousands of years hoarding books and storing their words close to my heart. Will the love stories that live inside my soul be enough to woo him? Is it too much to hope that fate has chosen him for me?
**** Smolder is book 2 in the Drake Security series and has a reluctant fated mate, dragon shifters, book swooning, ancient mysteries, and magic. Each book can be read on its own, but is so much better if read in order. The series is all dragons, NO MPREG.
When my hot headed brother found his fated mate, a deep, aching desire opened up inside of me for my own. Everyone knows dragons are covetous, jealous… possessive. I am all of these things, but never more so than when I set my eyes on Dempsey for the first time.
Beautiful. Awkward. Sweet. Shy. Perfect. My dragon wants to wrap himself around him the moment he bumps into me outside of his antique shop. Dempsey, however, is not as keen on that idea as my inner beast is.
He hired Drake Security for protection, and he needs it even more than he realized. Unfortunately, we specialize in brute strength and burning sh*t to the ground, and the problem Dempsey has is way out of our league.
Is he my fated mate or am I just so desperate for one that I’m falling for him too fast? Either way, I’ll move heaven and hell to protect him, even if the forces that are after him are unlike anything I’ve dealt with before.
I’ve spent thousands of years hoarding books and storing their words close to my heart. Will the love stories that live inside my soul be enough to woo him? Is it too much to hope that fate has chosen him for me?
**** Smolder is book 2 in the Drake Security series and has a reluctant fated mate, dragon shifters, book swooning, ancient mysteries, and magic. Each book can be read on its own, but is so much better if read in order. The series is all dragons, NO MPREG.
303 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 17, 2023
314 people are currently reading
411 people want to read
About the author
Mika Nix
8 books299 followersMika Nix is the combined paranormal alter egos of USA Today Bestselling authors of MM romance, K.M. Neuhold and Mia Monroe.
As Mika, this dynamic duo plans to light fire to your kindle with their upcoming series, Drake Security, featuring swoony brooding dragon shifter brothers as they discover their fated mates. It’s a guaranteed thrill ride.
In their spare time, they…oh let’s be honest. They’re always writing. Follow along to stay connected to their shenanigans.
As Mika, this dynamic duo plans to light fire to your kindle with their upcoming series, Drake Security, featuring swoony brooding dragon shifter brothers as they discover their fated mates. It’s a guaranteed thrill ride.
In their spare time, they…oh let’s be honest. They’re always writing. Follow along to stay connected to their shenanigans.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 226 reviews
October 19, 2023
Two bookworms who are fated mates, one of them a dragon and the other a human with a problem and the dragon has to protect him. Absolutely perfect conditions. And the characters of Dempsey and Hemingway are really interesting and a perfect match.
The story itself is also good in terms of the idea, but the execution leaves a lot to be desired. Grmpf. That was disappointing, unfortunately. A few small scenes here and there that entertained me well but on the whole it drags on super annoying and boring.
Even the sexy moments are nice but can't hide the fact that the story just isn't interesting enough.
What I mean, there really are these little gems hidden here even if most of it is cheesy to no end.
“We could spend a million lazy afternoons just like this, wrapped up in each other, reading passages from our favorite books and then making love until we’re too exhausted to go on any longer.” One of those rumbly dragon purrs moves through his chest and out through his lips. “You just described paradise, as far as I’m concerned.” 😍
And then something like this is sucked into the boring by a "plot". A great pity. And I love these dragons. I really do. The first book was great and I'm curious to read how the other brothers find their beloved. But it will probably take time before I can bring myself to read another of these books.
The story itself is also good in terms of the idea, but the execution leaves a lot to be desired. Grmpf. That was disappointing, unfortunately. A few small scenes here and there that entertained me well but on the whole it drags on super annoying and boring.
Even the sexy moments are nice but can't hide the fact that the story just isn't interesting enough.
What I mean, there really are these little gems hidden here even if most of it is cheesy to no end.
“We could spend a million lazy afternoons just like this, wrapped up in each other, reading passages from our favorite books and then making love until we’re too exhausted to go on any longer.” One of those rumbly dragon purrs moves through his chest and out through his lips. “You just described paradise, as far as I’m concerned.” 😍
And then something like this is sucked into the boring by a "plot". A great pity. And I love these dragons. I really do. The first book was great and I'm curious to read how the other brothers find their beloved. But it will probably take time before I can bring myself to read another of these books.
March 6, 2023
This book is marginally better than the first, but that's not saying much.
Dempsey has more depth than Lake, but the overall character development is weak.
Hemingway is Nico minus the temper, plus his love of books.
The plot has potential. The idea of a cursed amulet lends itself to mystery, suspense, adventure.
Sadly, we get none of that here. Instead, this book is like a terrible theater performance: scene after repetitive scene featuring the same few actors speaking the same cliché lines.
Here are the brothers in Lord's office. And here they are in Hemingway's house. Oooh ... and now they're on a plane! And Nico is angry. Hemingway is protective. Arson makes a joke. Rinse, repeat. So flat and boring.
The story takes place in London, a random American town, and Cairo, but all the settings feel interchangeable.
It's like the authors spent half an hour googling Cairo: Pyramids? Check. Outdoor bazaar? Yes. Poverty, dust, and terrible traffic? One and done. It's offensive frankly.
Plus, the way the issue with the amulet is resolved is nonsensical.
Super cock for the win!
The authors aren't selling logic and complex ideas. They're selling fast food writing with one-dimensional characters and plenty of sex, hoping we don't notice the lack of thought, care, and research that went into this book.
I'm not remotely tempted to read book 3. My intelligence has been insulted enough, thanks.
Dempsey has more depth than Lake, but the overall character development is weak.
Hemingway is Nico minus the temper, plus his love of books.
The plot has potential. The idea of a cursed amulet lends itself to mystery, suspense, adventure.
Sadly, we get none of that here. Instead, this book is like a terrible theater performance: scene after repetitive scene featuring the same few actors speaking the same cliché lines.
Here are the brothers in Lord's office. And here they are in Hemingway's house. Oooh ... and now they're on a plane! And Nico is angry. Hemingway is protective. Arson makes a joke. Rinse, repeat. So flat and boring.
The story takes place in London, a random American town, and Cairo, but all the settings feel interchangeable.
It's like the authors spent half an hour googling Cairo: Pyramids? Check. Outdoor bazaar? Yes. Poverty, dust, and terrible traffic? One and done. It's offensive frankly.
Plus, the way the issue with the amulet is resolved is nonsensical.
Super cock for the win!
The authors aren't selling logic and complex ideas. They're selling fast food writing with one-dimensional characters and plenty of sex, hoping we don't notice the lack of thought, care, and research that went into this book.
I'm not remotely tempted to read book 3. My intelligence has been insulted enough, thanks.
February 18, 2023
2.5
this is cute but damn it’s dumb. the cuteness doesn’t override the stupidity. the curse was interesting but it was resolved in the most uneventful way.
the characters aren’t thought enough. i feel like this was rushed a lot. a big shame.
i’ve finally moved out of my house and i don’t have the time or the energy to write more, sorry!
this is cute but damn it’s dumb. the cuteness doesn’t override the stupidity. the curse was interesting but it was resolved in the most uneventful way.
the characters aren’t thought enough. i feel like this was rushed a lot. a big shame.
i’ve finally moved out of my house and i don’t have the time or the energy to write more, sorry!
December 15, 2024
3.5
Much prefered these MC's to the couple from book 1. There just seemed to be more about them and the story was more engaging with the curse and the involvement of the other family members also.
I also LOVED that they both hoard books, Hemingway's hoard room sounds amazing to me.
While I do like the human and dragon mate combo, the resolution to the curse felt a little too convenient for me to rate higher!
Much prefered these MC's to the couple from book 1. There just seemed to be more about them and the story was more engaging with the curse and the involvement of the other family members also.
I also LOVED that they both hoard books, Hemingway's hoard room sounds amazing to me.
While I do like the human and dragon mate combo, the resolution to the curse felt a little too convenient for me to rate higher!
January 13, 2025
This dragon had a book hoard 😩🥹♥️ obsessed with these shifters!!!
February 20, 2023
** 3.25 stars **
I liked this book more than the first in the series. The circumstances of the danger here had an interesting twist. I liked the MCs chemistry and shared interests. The first part of the book was very good. Then the story turned repetitive and sugary sweet. The resolution was bland and didn't match the build up to it. I was a tad disappointed. There was a hint for the next mate, and I am looking forward to reading the next in the series despite a bit of predictability.
I liked this book more than the first in the series. The circumstances of the danger here had an interesting twist. I liked the MCs chemistry and shared interests. The first part of the book was very good. Then the story turned repetitive and sugary sweet. The resolution was bland and didn't match the build up to it. I was a tad disappointed. There was a hint for the next mate, and I am looking forward to reading the next in the series despite a bit of predictability.
February 22, 2023
Nice second book, calm vibe with a couple of intellectual type guys who love books and antiques. There is some cute wooing in the beginning and lovely sweet phrases and quotes throughout. Couple #2 are more sweet and calm than the sassy and vibrant couple in book 1.
This is book 2 of a series. You could get away with reading this as a stand alone but i wouldn’t recommend it. The first book is super great and there is a lot of backstory that you’d be missing out on. Well paced, lots of great dialogue paired well with a balance of sexy times and action. It’s a big book at 309 pages, but flowed well and remained interesting.
Fun fantasy read, suspend reality and enjoy this entertaining book, but go back and start with book 1!
This is book 2 of a series. You could get away with reading this as a stand alone but i wouldn’t recommend it. The first book is super great and there is a lot of backstory that you’d be missing out on. Well paced, lots of great dialogue paired well with a balance of sexy times and action. It’s a big book at 309 pages, but flowed well and remained interesting.
Fun fantasy read, suspend reality and enjoy this entertaining book, but go back and start with book 1!
February 16, 2023
" Who cares what the world thinks? Most of the world needs an enema anyway."
I absolutely loved Hem and Dempsey's story. As a bookworm and a fellow hoarder of books, this book resonated with me more than the first one did. I can relate to Dempsey in so ,any ways, I really enjoyed his character. He was shy, and a bit awkward, but he didn't let people walk all over him. He stood up for himself when it counted even though he was scared. When he slapped Hem, I silently cheered for him, you go Dempsey!
The descriptions and the details of this universe are breathtaking, I adore learning what each of these dragons hoard for their future mates. I like learning more of their quirks and personalities. In this book we got more information into what other paranormal creatures exist in this world; Vampires, Witches, Werewolves, curses, ghosts.... And I'm sure there will be other creatures we learn about as the series goes on.
I adored Lake encouraging and supporting Dempsey in this book. They became so close and it was amazing reading about Dempsey's growth and journey. And of course we got to see more growling and protective dragons, who can't help but getting worked up over the littlest of things. Especially when it concerns their mates.
The curse aspect of this book was really intriguing to me, the brothers have never fought something they couldn't see or touch before, so it added a much different element to the overall story and added more to the plot. It was fascinating to read about what the authors chose to have happen to Dempsey in regards to the necklace. It was so interesting and made me excited to read more.
'i fell in love with books because they were a window into a life I would never have. They were an escape from the life I did have.'
I'm so excited to read more of what's to come in this story. I'm looking forward to reading Arson's book, which if I'm correct I think will be next!
*I received an early copy of this book and this is my honest review.*
I absolutely loved Hem and Dempsey's story. As a bookworm and a fellow hoarder of books, this book resonated with me more than the first one did. I can relate to Dempsey in so ,any ways, I really enjoyed his character. He was shy, and a bit awkward, but he didn't let people walk all over him. He stood up for himself when it counted even though he was scared. When he slapped Hem, I silently cheered for him, you go Dempsey!
The descriptions and the details of this universe are breathtaking, I adore learning what each of these dragons hoard for their future mates. I like learning more of their quirks and personalities. In this book we got more information into what other paranormal creatures exist in this world; Vampires, Witches, Werewolves, curses, ghosts.... And I'm sure there will be other creatures we learn about as the series goes on.
I adored Lake encouraging and supporting Dempsey in this book. They became so close and it was amazing reading about Dempsey's growth and journey. And of course we got to see more growling and protective dragons, who can't help but getting worked up over the littlest of things. Especially when it concerns their mates.
The curse aspect of this book was really intriguing to me, the brothers have never fought something they couldn't see or touch before, so it added a much different element to the overall story and added more to the plot. It was fascinating to read about what the authors chose to have happen to Dempsey in regards to the necklace. It was so interesting and made me excited to read more.
'i fell in love with books because they were a window into a life I would never have. They were an escape from the life I did have.'
I'm so excited to read more of what's to come in this story. I'm looking forward to reading Arson's book, which if I'm correct I think will be next!
*I received an early copy of this book and this is my honest review.*
February 5, 2023
"I could read so many books if I lived for thousands of years."
Oh my sweet Dempsey. Same girl same. If I asked you to find me a couple who are more suited for each other than Hemingway and Dempsey, I think you'd have your work cut out for you. This isn't an opposites-attract or grumpy sunshine pairing similar to book 1. No,this is a romance between two sweet as pie bookworms who are more like each other than not. It's amazing how much these two ended up having in common. Or, well, maybe not. There's a reason fate chose Dempsey as the perfect mate for Hemingway.
"What does he look like when he's absorbed in a good book? What does he sound like breathless from a kiss?"
Such a way with words that Hemingway. In fact those poetic words of his are part of how he woos a semi reluctant Dempsey. Poor Dempsey doesn't have the greatest self esteem when they first meet, but fear not! Hemingway makes it his mission to change that and with some help from the exuberant Lake I think he succeeds. All of this is done in addition to trying to figure out what in the supernatural hell could be after his precious mate.
I really enjoyed the sweetness of the romance between these two. It was adorable how much Hemingway's dragon was besotted as well. He didn't make it easy for Hemingway to deny who Dempsey was to him. These dragons are smarter than their bipedal halves it seems. Speaking of dragons, it appears the wanderer of the brothers Arson is going to be the next one to fall prey to fates plans and his mate is definitely going to be causing a stir among the family. I can't wait to see how it all plays out because I have a feeling it's gunna bring the drama and I'm 100% here for it!
Oh my sweet Dempsey. Same girl same. If I asked you to find me a couple who are more suited for each other than Hemingway and Dempsey, I think you'd have your work cut out for you. This isn't an opposites-attract or grumpy sunshine pairing similar to book 1. No,this is a romance between two sweet as pie bookworms who are more like each other than not. It's amazing how much these two ended up having in common. Or, well, maybe not. There's a reason fate chose Dempsey as the perfect mate for Hemingway.
"What does he look like when he's absorbed in a good book? What does he sound like breathless from a kiss?"
Such a way with words that Hemingway. In fact those poetic words of his are part of how he woos a semi reluctant Dempsey. Poor Dempsey doesn't have the greatest self esteem when they first meet, but fear not! Hemingway makes it his mission to change that and with some help from the exuberant Lake I think he succeeds. All of this is done in addition to trying to figure out what in the supernatural hell could be after his precious mate.
I really enjoyed the sweetness of the romance between these two. It was adorable how much Hemingway's dragon was besotted as well. He didn't make it easy for Hemingway to deny who Dempsey was to him. These dragons are smarter than their bipedal halves it seems. Speaking of dragons, it appears the wanderer of the brothers Arson is going to be the next one to fall prey to fates plans and his mate is definitely going to be causing a stir among the family. I can't wait to see how it all plays out because I have a feeling it's gunna bring the drama and I'm 100% here for it!
February 4, 2025
3.5 stars
Way better than the first book, but had to dock a few stars off because it made me question if I even like men. I'm in a reading slump and was too impatient to thoroughly enjoy the slowburn (I didn't really care about the big reveal, which was disappointing). This book narrowly escaped being boring af. There's only so many times I can stand a grown man growling under his breath before I dnf a novel. Putting this series down for now so I don't get annoyed by the repetitive plots/characters.
Way better than the first book, but had to dock a few stars off because it made me question if I even like men. I'm in a reading slump and was too impatient to thoroughly enjoy the slowburn (I didn't really care about the big reveal, which was disappointing). This book narrowly escaped being boring af. There's only so many times I can stand a grown man growling under his breath before I dnf a novel. Putting this series down for now so I don't get annoyed by the repetitive plots/characters.
February 17, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Smolder is the second book in Mika Nix’s Drake Security series and picks up with the second Drake brother finding love and his fated mate. I think the authors do a nice job here keeping the familiar beats from the first book — the client who turns out to be a mate, a threat that the Drakes must protect against,3 the mating rituals — while at the same time, giving this storyline enough differentiation from the first book to keep it interesting. You sort of have to just go with the explanation for why the guys suddenly take off for London together (or how they arrange a trip so fast they meet for the first time and then land in London 12 hours later). But if you can get past that sort of awkward start, this one really is an engaging story. The time the guys spend in London has a nice magical fairytale quality, with Hemingway spoiling Dempsey and showing him around the city. It gives them time to get to know each other and make a connection, as well as for us to get a sense of the threat Dempsey faces.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Smolder is the second book in Mika Nix’s Drake Security series and picks up with the second Drake brother finding love and his fated mate. I think the authors do a nice job here keeping the familiar beats from the first book — the client who turns out to be a mate, a threat that the Drakes must protect against,3 the mating rituals — while at the same time, giving this storyline enough differentiation from the first book to keep it interesting. You sort of have to just go with the explanation for why the guys suddenly take off for London together (or how they arrange a trip so fast they meet for the first time and then land in London 12 hours later). But if you can get past that sort of awkward start, this one really is an engaging story. The time the guys spend in London has a nice magical fairytale quality, with Hemingway spoiling Dempsey and showing him around the city. It gives them time to get to know each other and make a connection, as well as for us to get a sense of the threat Dempsey faces.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
June 23, 2024
⭐️: 4/10 🌶️: 3/5 😭: -/5 🤣: 1/5
Tropes:
🐉 Dragon shifters
💖 Bodyguard
🐉 Fated mates
💖 Found family
“What? Do I have sauce on my face?” “No. You have beauty and freckles and happiness on your face.”
(ESP) Luego de un inicio de serie muy bueno nos encontramos con este libro en el cual las inconsistencias ya no pueden ser soslayadas bajo el pretexto de ser la primera obra en conjunto de las autoras. Desgraciadamente son varias y bastantes obvias.
Es una historia bastante larga y se me hizo un tanto aburrida y repetitiva. Aún así es necesaria para continuar la serie cosa que pienso hacer en algún momento porque me he encariñado con los hermanos Drake.
(ENG) After a very good start to the series, we find ourselves with this book, in which inconsistencies cannot be avoided under the pretext of being the first joint work by the authors. Unfortunately, there are several and they are quite obvious.
It is a rather long story and I found it a little boring and repetitive. Nevertheless, it is necessary to continue the series, which I intend to do at some point, because I have grown fond of the Drake brothers.
“You make me feel like…” I shrug. “Better than a pile of treasured books.” “That good, huh?” “That good.”
Tropes:
🐉 Dragon shifters
💖 Bodyguard
🐉 Fated mates
💖 Found family
“What? Do I have sauce on my face?” “No. You have beauty and freckles and happiness on your face.”
(ESP) Luego de un inicio de serie muy bueno nos encontramos con este libro en el cual las inconsistencias ya no pueden ser soslayadas bajo el pretexto de ser la primera obra en conjunto de las autoras. Desgraciadamente son varias y bastantes obvias.
Es una historia bastante larga y se me hizo un tanto aburrida y repetitiva. Aún así es necesaria para continuar la serie cosa que pienso hacer en algún momento porque me he encariñado con los hermanos Drake.
(ENG) After a very good start to the series, we find ourselves with this book, in which inconsistencies cannot be avoided under the pretext of being the first joint work by the authors. Unfortunately, there are several and they are quite obvious.
It is a rather long story and I found it a little boring and repetitive. Nevertheless, it is necessary to continue the series, which I intend to do at some point, because I have grown fond of the Drake brothers.
“You make me feel like…” I shrug. “Better than a pile of treasured books.” “That good, huh?” “That good.”
Read
December 20, 20254.25 ⭐️
I liked this one a tad bit more than the first book. I think it’s because it has more depth to it.
Dempsey is very shy, inexperienced, and awkward, but he is equally fierce and protective. He is like a fluffy marshmallow, and Hemingway came up and just gobbled him up 🫠❤️ Oufff the steam!!! ❤️🔥
I liked the plot a bit more than the first one. Again, Lord is so intriguing to me, I just want to be inside of his head.
Anywayyy, I truly enjoyed this book, on to the next one!
I liked this one a tad bit more than the first book. I think it’s because it has more depth to it.
Dempsey is very shy, inexperienced, and awkward, but he is equally fierce and protective. He is like a fluffy marshmallow, and Hemingway came up and just gobbled him up 🫠❤️ Oufff the steam!!! ❤️🔥
I liked the plot a bit more than the first one. Again, Lord is so intriguing to me, I just want to be inside of his head.
Anywayyy, I truly enjoyed this book, on to the next one!
February 23, 2025
This was utterly delightful. I'm not typically a fan of dragons but since I enjoyed the first book well enough I thought I'd give this one a try and I'm so very glad that I did. Hemingway is wonderful. If you have to be a dragon, you'd best be hoarding books, is all I'm saying. The literary (and pop culture) references tickled me as well as the random historical tidbits. Basically, an excellent time was had and I'm looking forward to future books in the series.
reread: looooooove. dempsey is so great.
reread: looooooove. dempsey is so great.
February 28, 2023
4.25
I enjoyed this second one a tad more than the first and am looking forward to the next installments of this series! :)
Pros:
- Book hoarding
- Book hoarding
- Book ho- no for real, great hoarding, possessiveness, snuggliness, carrying, sneaky jewels on want-to-be-mate etc.
Cons:
- human MC once again read ten years too young o_O
- interesting how the previous brother understood zero pop cultural references and this book hoarder understands them all
- the conflict felt very stop and go
- "the SUV" (p. 29)
Let's try and choose a minimal amount of quotes
NSFW infos:
42 year old out gay antiquarian human (virgin)
> 2000 year old dragon "Clark Kent stunt double"
strict top/bottom dynamic
knotting once mated
Nicknames:
Birth name Evri
Hemingway -> Hem
mon bijou
I enjoyed this second one a tad more than the first and am looking forward to the next installments of this series! :)
Pros:
- Book hoarding
- Book hoarding
- Book ho- no for real, great hoarding, possessiveness, snuggliness, carrying, sneaky jewels on want-to-be-mate etc.
Cons:
- human MC once again read ten years too young o_O
- interesting how the previous brother understood zero pop cultural references and this book hoarder understands them all
- the conflict felt very stop and go
- "the SUV" (p. 29)
Let's try and choose a minimal amount of quotes
"Without an ounce of conscious thought, I watch in a daze as my hand moves towards Dempsey from behind, the ring pressed tightly in my palm. I slip the jewelry into his back pocket in one swift motion, yanking my hand back as quickly as I can." (p. 54)
"His words burrow into my chest, and I add them to my own personal hoard of my own I've started building. A hoard full of moments and memories of all the ways he's making me fall in love with him." (p. 191)
"I love you, Dempsey."
My heart jolts. The words should terrify me. No one has ever said them to me, and I thought I was perfectly fine with that until this moment. I thought I didn't need them, but I was so very wrong." (p. 193)
NSFW infos:
42 year old out gay antiquarian human (virgin)
> 2000 year old dragon "Clark Kent stunt double"
strict top/bottom dynamic
knotting once mated
Nicknames:
Birth name Evri
Hemingway -> Hem
mon bijou
January 15, 2024
The second book of the Drake Security series had a bit of a rocky start for me. Hemingway seemed to give into his impulses really easily, and I was very worried about the kind of tone the book would take because of that. His dragon was incredibly covetous (which makes sense), and seemed to take control more often than not. Considering they call Nico the hot head, I felt that title was far more appropriate for Hemingway.
But soon, most of that made sense. Hemingway was responding to a threat. He just didn't know it at the time. And Dempsey was very sure to let Hemingway know exactly when and how far to back off when needed.
Something I really liked about this book was the easy way Lake folded Dempsey into the mix. Lake supported Dempsey unconditionally as Dempsey navigated his new normal, and made him feel welcome. And while we have five blood-related brothers, the extended found family that they're building is lovely.
After the first book, I was anticipating an underlying plot that would tie the series together. And while that's not quite what's happening, each story does play into the next, creating a rich world with very vibrant characters.
Two brothers have met their mates, and there are three left. I'm really looking forward to seeing who encounters their mate next!
But soon, most of that made sense. Hemingway was responding to a threat. He just didn't know it at the time. And Dempsey was very sure to let Hemingway know exactly when and how far to back off when needed.
Something I really liked about this book was the easy way Lake folded Dempsey into the mix. Lake supported Dempsey unconditionally as Dempsey navigated his new normal, and made him feel welcome. And while we have five blood-related brothers, the extended found family that they're building is lovely.
After the first book, I was anticipating an underlying plot that would tie the series together. And while that's not quite what's happening, each story does play into the next, creating a rich world with very vibrant characters.
Two brothers have met their mates, and there are three left. I'm really looking forward to seeing who encounters their mate next!
February 10, 2023
I love Dragons and fated mates!!! Smolder is Hemingway and Dempsey story, this was sweet and I love the mystery of the story! Dempsey owns an antique store and hire Drake security to protect him, something strange is happening and he can’t explained it. It’s Hemingway’s turn to take a client and lucky him because from the moment he steps into the store he and his dragon knows there’s something special about Dempsey, they are in protective mode and wants to take care of Dempsey. It was fun to watching them dance around each other, I love how protective Hemingway is of Dempsey and how he is trying to woo his mate, I love fated mates and how they feel the pull to each other. The mystery surrounding Dempsey was really interesting and I definitely love Hem and Dempsey mating ritual. These two were perfect together!
February 11, 2023
Love letters
Hemingway and Dempsey are extra swoony. I think it’s because they both love and appreciate books so much, and the way Hem woos Dempsey is full heart eyes. But the way he protects Dempsey is all dragon.
“I will set this world and the next on fire if that’s what I have to do to protect you.”
I really enjoyed the adventure elements, and how it threw all the dragons for a loop. Dempsey, especially, tugged at my heart with the struggles he went through to find his forever love. I’m looking forward to spending more time with this adorably growly family and seeing who gets hit by fate next. I have a feeling it might have them all sniffing out more than they expect.
Hemingway and Dempsey are extra swoony. I think it’s because they both love and appreciate books so much, and the way Hem woos Dempsey is full heart eyes. But the way he protects Dempsey is all dragon.
“I will set this world and the next on fire if that’s what I have to do to protect you.”
I really enjoyed the adventure elements, and how it threw all the dragons for a loop. Dempsey, especially, tugged at my heart with the struggles he went through to find his forever love. I’m looking forward to spending more time with this adorably growly family and seeing who gets hit by fate next. I have a feeling it might have them all sniffing out more than they expect.
February 8, 2023
3.75 rounded up! I enjoyed being back in this world but I wasn’t connecting with Dempsey. The first one got me hooked from page one but I (sorry if this comes off mean) personally didn’t like that his disbelief that Hem wanted him lasted so long, it annoyed me how many times he put himself down. I’m glad Hem reassured him and cared for him but damn, he’s not my mate so I found it quite taxing.
All in all, I will definitely continue the series. I have a feeling Arsen is the next contender on fated mates (🐺au)
All in all, I will definitely continue the series. I have a feeling Arsen is the next contender on fated mates (🐺au)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 16, 2023
Smolder is the second book in this fantastic new dragon shifter series by Mika Nix. This book follows Dempsey and Hemingway's story. The book features bodyguards, dragons, sweet and sexy times, and all the feels. The book is really well written and has a good story. I couldn't stop reading and had to finish the book.
I am looking forward to more stories of the dragon brothers. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I am looking forward to more stories of the dragon brothers. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 18, 2023
Interesting characters, good story. I am enjoying this series very much. I stopped the other books I was reading to read this one because I knew it would be low angst entertainment and it was. Looking forward to Arson's story! As well as the rest of the brothers.
February 26, 2023
4.5 stars
Enjoying this series with each book that I've read so far!! So with all the talk about Valentino, I was so sure he was next but Arson is up next and no less fate deemed, maybe a wolf as his mate???
Enjoying this series with each book that I've read so far!! So with all the talk about Valentino, I was so sure he was next but Arson is up next and no less fate deemed, maybe a wolf as his mate???
June 14, 2023
A dragon bodyguard and a bookstore owner? Sign me up! I’m loving this co-written series by KM Neuhold and Mia Monroe! Hordes, lore, fated mates and action galore! I loved this installment. Every bookish nerds fantasy with some added spice! 5/5 would recommend, read again and buy a physical copy.
February 18, 2023
Das Ende war antiklimaktisch, leider.
August 11, 2023
Smoldering
This story is just as hot as book one. I am so hooked on this series and this book kept me interested the whole way through. I can't wait to get to book three.
This story is just as hot as book one. I am so hooked on this series and this book kept me interested the whole way through. I can't wait to get to book three.
February 13, 2025
Loved it, even better than book 1!!
February 19, 2023
Well, that was boring and flat…
Character development was already a big problem in the first book but the second one is even worse. What was so special about Hemingway, apart from his name? He loved old books… that’s basically his whole personality. And the second main, Dempsey didn’t do any better. He loved ancient things and apparently has self-esteem issues, though the authors were pretty confusing when it came to the reasons behind that thought.
In the beginning Dempsey says “People don’t stay with me. I’m dull. Too focused on my work.” Okay, please elaborate on that one. Who is “people”? As we get to know later on, Dempsey doesn’t have any friends because he is too focused on his work. So, it’s a choice, not a problem per se. He also says that he didn’t get with anyone because apart from lacking social skills it just never felt right with anyone. Doesn’t sound like he got shamed for “being dull” either but instead chose that option for himself. Later on in the book he suddenly claims that guys never saw him as a long-term option and didn’t want to get him into bed. So… whose fault is it now? The guys because they didn’t want to get with Dempsey or was it simply Dempsey’s decision to stay single because it never felt right to begin with? Also, him saying that the other guys never put in effort to get him into bed felt kinda weird considering he didn’t want to in the first place. Should they have forced him? I’m confused.
These characters lack in terms of a background story and they seem to be written within a few hours before the authors called it a day. What’s their motivation and inner conflict?! Hemingway said again and again that he will do anything to help Dempsey, wouldn’t even stop to burn the world down. But… he doesn’t do anything? The witch was the one who tried everything she could to help.
Oh, and there was something about Hemingway that really made me laugh. At one point during the story Hemingway suddenly and completely randomly says the following: “Protecting the planet is everyone’s responsibility”, as if he suddenly became Mr. Ecofriendly. It’s the same guy who has a private airplane to fly to London instead of using the same plane as everyone else. You know… for doing his part to save the planet. LMAO he reminded me of our politicians who preach about saving the planet and then fly with two separates airplanes instead of ONE.
Not even the plot with the cursed necklace could save the book in the end as it was totally uneventful and unnecessary? The ending was really anticlimactic. What purpose did that whole plotline have? Blah.
Did the authors even try? It doesn’t seem like it.
Character development was already a big problem in the first book but the second one is even worse. What was so special about Hemingway, apart from his name? He loved old books… that’s basically his whole personality. And the second main, Dempsey didn’t do any better. He loved ancient things and apparently has self-esteem issues, though the authors were pretty confusing when it came to the reasons behind that thought.
In the beginning Dempsey says “People don’t stay with me. I’m dull. Too focused on my work.” Okay, please elaborate on that one. Who is “people”? As we get to know later on, Dempsey doesn’t have any friends because he is too focused on his work. So, it’s a choice, not a problem per se. He also says that he didn’t get with anyone because apart from lacking social skills it just never felt right with anyone. Doesn’t sound like he got shamed for “being dull” either but instead chose that option for himself. Later on in the book he suddenly claims that guys never saw him as a long-term option and didn’t want to get him into bed. So… whose fault is it now? The guys because they didn’t want to get with Dempsey or was it simply Dempsey’s decision to stay single because it never felt right to begin with? Also, him saying that the other guys never put in effort to get him into bed felt kinda weird considering he didn’t want to in the first place. Should they have forced him? I’m confused.
These characters lack in terms of a background story and they seem to be written within a few hours before the authors called it a day. What’s their motivation and inner conflict?! Hemingway said again and again that he will do anything to help Dempsey, wouldn’t even stop to burn the world down. But… he doesn’t do anything? The witch was the one who tried everything she could to help.
Oh, and there was something about Hemingway that really made me laugh. At one point during the story Hemingway suddenly and completely randomly says the following: “Protecting the planet is everyone’s responsibility”, as if he suddenly became Mr. Ecofriendly. It’s the same guy who has a private airplane to fly to London instead of using the same plane as everyone else. You know… for doing his part to save the planet. LMAO he reminded me of our politicians who preach about saving the planet and then fly with two separates airplanes instead of ONE.
Not even the plot with the cursed necklace could save the book in the end as it was totally uneventful and unnecessary? The ending was really anticlimactic. What purpose did that whole plotline have? Blah.
Did the authors even try? It doesn’t seem like it.
October 29, 2023
When I saw some comments saying that this book seemed like a copy of the first one, I couldn't believe it. I thought it was an exaggeration and yes, it was a little exaggerated, but not a total mistake.
*The phrase "I can’t believe this is my life." It is repeated several times here and in the last book and possibly in the next ones.
*The incredulity of finding a mate is portrayed in the same way.
*The timing of the claim is not the same due to small details.
*Possessiveness attacks are a blatant copy.
*The revelation of my true name. Copied and pasted.
*The phrases of pride for the accumulated treasure are the same.
*The forest scene. For dad's sake, I got a tic in my left eye. Etc..............
I reiterate that they are not completely the same, since this book here is more boring. I'm the type of reader who gives every chance and then some. But this book was boring. When I wasn't repeating phrases and scenes from the first one, it was boring, repetitive, tiring and boring.
Another thing I don't understand is why these shifter characters are so clueless. It doesn't make sense to have such keen senses and not be able to identify your mates by smell or touch or whatever.
And how crazy is this to say that you should always trust your dragon, your refined shifters intuition and when the F*%$# of the predestined companion appears and your dragon warns you, the donkey says that he cannot trust his dragon that he He's just jealous of his brother and wants what he has. That was the biggest pain in my foot.
There's a lot wrong here. I only read this book because I was curious to know if it would be an evolution of the first one. I already had another one lined up to read, but no. And don't get me wrong, I like the authors' writing style. I like the plot. I like that it has a little action. I like that it's low anguish. But the development of the plot itself is completely uncreative.
Now I'm not sure if I want to read the next one. I think it could be different, since this time there are two different species of shifters. But I'm afraid. I'm in a shifter book phase. Paranormal. Predestined companion. Mpreg (which we don't have here, a shame). I haven't been having much luck lately.
*The phrase "I can’t believe this is my life." It is repeated several times here and in the last book and possibly in the next ones.
*The incredulity of finding a mate is portrayed in the same way.
*The timing of the claim is not the same due to small details.
*Possessiveness attacks are a blatant copy.
*The revelation of my true name. Copied and pasted.
*The phrases of pride for the accumulated treasure are the same.
*The forest scene. For dad's sake, I got a tic in my left eye. Etc..............
I reiterate that they are not completely the same, since this book here is more boring. I'm the type of reader who gives every chance and then some. But this book was boring. When I wasn't repeating phrases and scenes from the first one, it was boring, repetitive, tiring and boring.
Another thing I don't understand is why these shifter characters are so clueless. It doesn't make sense to have such keen senses and not be able to identify your mates by smell or touch or whatever.
And how crazy is this to say that you should always trust your dragon, your refined shifters intuition and when the F*%$# of the predestined companion appears and your dragon warns you, the donkey says that he cannot trust his dragon that he He's just jealous of his brother and wants what he has. That was the biggest pain in my foot.
There's a lot wrong here. I only read this book because I was curious to know if it would be an evolution of the first one. I already had another one lined up to read, but no. And don't get me wrong, I like the authors' writing style. I like the plot. I like that it has a little action. I like that it's low anguish. But the development of the plot itself is completely uncreative.
Now I'm not sure if I want to read the next one. I think it could be different, since this time there are two different species of shifters. But I'm afraid. I'm in a shifter book phase. Paranormal. Predestined companion. Mpreg (which we don't have here, a shame). I haven't been having much luck lately.
February 23, 2023
A very entertaining romance and couple
Rating: 4🌈
It’s that cover! Couldn’t resist. So while I wasn’t really buying into some of the themes the authors (K.M. Neuhold and Mia Monroe are Mika Nix) created in book one, I went on and picked up the second novel in the series, Smoulder.
Turns out, it’s missing most but not all of the elements I had issues with and I found this entertaining and a fast, enjoyable read.
For starters, this dragon brother’s character is one that I really found interesting and more nuanced. Whereas Nico was all hot headed , action without thought, Hemingway is almost his opposite. A collector of antiquities, gems, and, most importantly, books, Hemingway is a thoughtful and layered personality.
Dempsey Ryan, Drake Security’s newest client and Hemingway’s future mate here is a terrific character in his own right. In his early forties and a collector of rare and unusual items, especially books and jewels, his personality and interests are crafted by the authors to mesh well with Hemingway’s so their chemistry and instant attraction to each other makes sense on multiple levels.
The readers just like them together and we just get it. The strongest part of this story is the romantic relationship, with Hemingway’s attitude towards and attempts at wooing Dempsey.
The mystery that has Dempsey needing protection is probably the weakest part of the narrative. It builds backwards, filling in facts just when the reader is asking questions about where that aspect of the story came about. It feels hurriedly filled in instead of part of a plot. And the ending was anticlimactic for all the events and drama building up to it. While it was a nice surprise and added a new powerful character to the group, it wasn’t the ending that fit the storyline that lead up to it.
Smoulder finishes with a wedding, a new start for a couple I throughly loved, and a hint as to who’s going to be next in line for their mate and novel.
As much as I enjoyed this I’ll be heading into the next episode to see how it all goes down.
I’m recommending this book and romance.
Drake Security:
- [x] Hot Head #1
- [x] Smoulder #2
Rating: 4🌈
It’s that cover! Couldn’t resist. So while I wasn’t really buying into some of the themes the authors (K.M. Neuhold and Mia Monroe are Mika Nix) created in book one, I went on and picked up the second novel in the series, Smoulder.
Turns out, it’s missing most but not all of the elements I had issues with and I found this entertaining and a fast, enjoyable read.
For starters, this dragon brother’s character is one that I really found interesting and more nuanced. Whereas Nico was all hot headed , action without thought, Hemingway is almost his opposite. A collector of antiquities, gems, and, most importantly, books, Hemingway is a thoughtful and layered personality.
Dempsey Ryan, Drake Security’s newest client and Hemingway’s future mate here is a terrific character in his own right. In his early forties and a collector of rare and unusual items, especially books and jewels, his personality and interests are crafted by the authors to mesh well with Hemingway’s so their chemistry and instant attraction to each other makes sense on multiple levels.
The readers just like them together and we just get it. The strongest part of this story is the romantic relationship, with Hemingway’s attitude towards and attempts at wooing Dempsey.
The mystery that has Dempsey needing protection is probably the weakest part of the narrative. It builds backwards, filling in facts just when the reader is asking questions about where that aspect of the story came about. It feels hurriedly filled in instead of part of a plot. And the ending was anticlimactic for all the events and drama building up to it. While it was a nice surprise and added a new powerful character to the group, it wasn’t the ending that fit the storyline that lead up to it.
Smoulder finishes with a wedding, a new start for a couple I throughly loved, and a hint as to who’s going to be next in line for their mate and novel.
As much as I enjoyed this I’ll be heading into the next episode to see how it all goes down.
I’m recommending this book and romance.
Drake Security:
- [x] Hot Head #1
- [x] Smoulder #2
June 8, 2024
old post reposted
Mika Nix is the combined paranormal alter egos of K.M. Neuhold and Mia Monroe (their words--they also added bestselling, just saying). Mika's debut series is the Drake Security books, and it's second book is titled "Smolder."
["I was hired to protect him, but will our smoldering attraction ignite into love?
When my hot headed brother found his fated mate, a deep, aching desire opened up inside of me for my own. Everyone knows dragons are covetous, jealous… possessive. I am all of these things, but never more so than when I set my eyes on Dempsey for the first time.
Beautiful. Awkward. Sweet. Shy. Perfect. My dragon wants to wrap himself around him the moment he bumps into me outside of his antique shop. Dempsey, however, is not as keen on that idea as my inner beast is.
He hired Drake Security for protection, and he needs it even more than he realized. Unfortunately, we specialize in brute strength and burning sh*t to the ground, and the problem Dempsey has is way out of our league.
Is he my fated mate or am I just so desperate for one that I’m falling for him too fast? Either way, I’ll move heaven and hell to protect him, even if the forces that are after him are unlike anything I’ve dealt with before.
I’ve spent thousands of years hoarding books and storing their words close to my heart. Will the love stories that live inside my soul be enough to woo him? Is it too much to hope that fate has chosen him for me?"]
I liked the first book a lot better than this one, but this one was still so fun and sweet and spicy. There was a secret, magical danger lurking around, and Dempsey wasn't sold on his attraction to Hemingway (or Hemingway's attraction to him). But after some danger and dragons almost-hulking-out and romance in London, they slowly started to figure a few things out.
I can't wait for the rest of the series. I need all of these brothers to find love.
#hothead #smolder #drakesecurity #drakesecurityseries #mikanix #kmneuhold #miamonroe #paranormal #books #queerbooks #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
Mika Nix is the combined paranormal alter egos of K.M. Neuhold and Mia Monroe (their words--they also added bestselling, just saying). Mika's debut series is the Drake Security books, and it's second book is titled "Smolder."
["I was hired to protect him, but will our smoldering attraction ignite into love?
When my hot headed brother found his fated mate, a deep, aching desire opened up inside of me for my own. Everyone knows dragons are covetous, jealous… possessive. I am all of these things, but never more so than when I set my eyes on Dempsey for the first time.
Beautiful. Awkward. Sweet. Shy. Perfect. My dragon wants to wrap himself around him the moment he bumps into me outside of his antique shop. Dempsey, however, is not as keen on that idea as my inner beast is.
He hired Drake Security for protection, and he needs it even more than he realized. Unfortunately, we specialize in brute strength and burning sh*t to the ground, and the problem Dempsey has is way out of our league.
Is he my fated mate or am I just so desperate for one that I’m falling for him too fast? Either way, I’ll move heaven and hell to protect him, even if the forces that are after him are unlike anything I’ve dealt with before.
I’ve spent thousands of years hoarding books and storing their words close to my heart. Will the love stories that live inside my soul be enough to woo him? Is it too much to hope that fate has chosen him for me?"]
I liked the first book a lot better than this one, but this one was still so fun and sweet and spicy. There was a secret, magical danger lurking around, and Dempsey wasn't sold on his attraction to Hemingway (or Hemingway's attraction to him). But after some danger and dragons almost-hulking-out and romance in London, they slowly started to figure a few things out.
I can't wait for the rest of the series. I need all of these brothers to find love.
#hothead #smolder #drakesecurity #drakesecurityseries #mikanix #kmneuhold #miamonroe #paranormal #books #queerbooks #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
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