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Damned Mercenaries #2
Accidental Magic
Gargoyles are immune to Mage Magic, so why can I feel Rune in my veins?
Ever since the snarky mage kidnapped one of my fellow mercenaries, I haven’t been able to stop thinking about him. It’s like he’s under my skin somehow… or rather, under my stone.
Why did I have a dream about him being abducted if I’m not meant to save him? The problem is, the list of Rune’s enemies is a mile long, and no one else is all that broken up about his life being in danger.
I’m going to rescue him one way or another, even if it means getting myself caught in the process, even if he doesn’t really want to be saved, even if it’s the stupidest idea I’ve ever had.
The more I get to know him, the more I’m starting to think his sarcasm and bite is just a cover for the truth… he doesn’t trust anyone, and he has good reason not to.
As far as I know, gargoyles don’t have fated mates, and neither do mages, but the pull between us is undeniable. Maybe it has something to do with his magic or maybe fate has plans for us after all… but we need to find a way out of this prison before we can start to think about Happily Ever Afters…
Ever since the snarky mage kidnapped one of my fellow mercenaries, I haven’t been able to stop thinking about him. It’s like he’s under my skin somehow… or rather, under my stone.
Why did I have a dream about him being abducted if I’m not meant to save him? The problem is, the list of Rune’s enemies is a mile long, and no one else is all that broken up about his life being in danger.
I’m going to rescue him one way or another, even if it means getting myself caught in the process, even if he doesn’t really want to be saved, even if it’s the stupidest idea I’ve ever had.
The more I get to know him, the more I’m starting to think his sarcasm and bite is just a cover for the truth… he doesn’t trust anyone, and he has good reason not to.
As far as I know, gargoyles don’t have fated mates, and neither do mages, but the pull between us is undeniable. Maybe it has something to do with his magic or maybe fate has plans for us after all… but we need to find a way out of this prison before we can start to think about Happily Ever Afters…
228 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 6, 2026
74 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
Mika Nix
9 books307 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 54 reviews
March 16, 2026
3.5⭐️These are so easier to become distracted away from… but I always enjoy them while I’m reading. 🤷🏻♀️
February 10, 2026
Ich hab es in zwei Rutschen gelesen, es war nett, etwas antiklimaktisch am Ende, aber ich mag einfach die Charas. Zwischendurch hätte ich mir ein Kapitel aus Sicht der anderen Truppe gewünscht, weil sie halt schon sehr lange gemeinsam in der Zelle sitzen. Hab es gern gelesen, werde ich es nochmal lesen? Vermutlich nicht.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2026
This is the second book in the Damned Mercenaries series. It can be enjoyed as a standalone read but you will get more out of it if you read the series in order. This is the story of Rune and Atlas. Rune is a very powerful human mage that doesn't form bonds nor friendships. He has prickly demeanor meant to deliberately keep people away. In short, he is not a very likeable character in the beginning. But once you understand what he has gone through, your entire perception will change. Atlas is a gargoyle. As with all gargoyles, he is hard wired to protect and defend. He also has a sweet, marshmallow, inside. Atlas is contracted as a mercenary to the demon Auri. His found family is composed of his fellow mercenaries. When Rune is kidnapped and stripped of his magic; he realizes that his lifestyle of keeping people at arms length will mean that no one will be looking for him. He is all on his own. Luckily, Rune is wrong about that. As a gargoyle, Atlas is unaffected by magic. Yet he has a dream telling him that Rune is in trouble and that he needs help. Unable to let it go, Atlas feels compelled to help him. Good thing his fellow mercenaries don't mind helping out. This is their story. The book is very well written and easy to read. I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the authors and I am voluntarily leaving a review. I really enjoyed this book. Being held captive gave Rune a chance to really get to know Atlas. I liked how he slowly learned to trust Atlas. I am glad that Rune turned out to be good guy because I felt like Atlas deserved someone special who would adore and protect him. And Rune is up for the job. I especially enjoyed Rune's negotiation and interrogation of Auri to ensure that no one was taking advantage of Atlas. This was a fun book to read. I am looking forward to reading Roman's story next.
February 17, 2026
This was a bit slow. It was just Rune and Atlas in a prison cell for a few days and then they’re in love. And considering how standoff-ish Rune was in book 1, I expected him to put up more of a fight. And the main conflict was absolutely pointless. So anti-climactic. I’m not enjoying this series as much as Drake Security so far. Feels like more Mia Monroe and less K.M. Neuhold.
February 22, 2026
3.5 Great continuation for the series of misfit supernatural team. Meeting back up with the prickly sarcastic mage from the previous book Rune as he is kidnapped, causing the stoic gargoyle Atlas to get a bit of a wake up.
Less of the full team and more only one bed with a pair of fated mates to be. Poor Atlas is kinda blundering around trying to find Rune not sure why they have such a pull.
It was great to see Rune from his perspective after his appearance in the last book. Having him break down his walls and finally feel safe was great and he will be a great addition to the team for future books.
Cute couple and a good expansion on this supernatural world, fun read overall.
Less of the full team and more only one bed with a pair of fated mates to be. Poor Atlas is kinda blundering around trying to find Rune not sure why they have such a pull.
It was great to see Rune from his perspective after his appearance in the last book. Having him break down his walls and finally feel safe was great and he will be a great addition to the team for future books.
Cute couple and a good expansion on this supernatural world, fun read overall.
February 6, 2026
I love the books that this dynamic duo writes, they are always so good and full of characters you can't help but to adore.
This book is about Atlas, who is a gargoyle who dreams about a certain mage who made their life difficult on their last mission... What he can't figure out is why he's dreaming about the mage. One this is for certain though, he needs to save the man, no matter the cost.
Atlas and Rune are such a unique couple, and can I say a powerhouse couple too?! Rune was almost unstoppable without being bonded to Atlas, but now that they have a bond between them? Now they are both unstoppable.
I loved these two together! They didn't get together right away, which I really liked. Their relationship is more of a slow burn, which makes sense considering where the majority of the story takes place. I don't think it would've worked if the authors tried to rush their relationship, there needed to be that slow burn... Them gradually trusting one another and getting to truly know each other was when we got to see those bonds form between them.
I liked the commentary they have with each other, the snarky remarks, sarcastic jokes, heartfelt conversations, and so much more. All of it just made reading this story such a joy to read! I'm happy that Rune was able to figure things out with his captor, along with him finally letting others into his life. That's something I also really enjoyed was seeing these characters grow as individuals and also together as a couple.
I'm so excited for Roman's book, I can't wait to see who his mate ends up being!
This book is about Atlas, who is a gargoyle who dreams about a certain mage who made their life difficult on their last mission... What he can't figure out is why he's dreaming about the mage. One this is for certain though, he needs to save the man, no matter the cost.
Atlas and Rune are such a unique couple, and can I say a powerhouse couple too?! Rune was almost unstoppable without being bonded to Atlas, but now that they have a bond between them? Now they are both unstoppable.
I loved these two together! They didn't get together right away, which I really liked. Their relationship is more of a slow burn, which makes sense considering where the majority of the story takes place. I don't think it would've worked if the authors tried to rush their relationship, there needed to be that slow burn... Them gradually trusting one another and getting to truly know each other was when we got to see those bonds form between them.
I liked the commentary they have with each other, the snarky remarks, sarcastic jokes, heartfelt conversations, and so much more. All of it just made reading this story such a joy to read! I'm happy that Rune was able to figure things out with his captor, along with him finally letting others into his life. That's something I also really enjoyed was seeing these characters grow as individuals and also together as a couple.
I'm so excited for Roman's book, I can't wait to see who his mate ends up being!
February 9, 2026
I really do love this series!
So, the first thing I'll say is that despite this being book 2 in the series I think you could read it as a standalone. I don't recommend it, but that's more because the first book was great and why wouldn't you want to enjoy it lol. That being said, if you are a total maniac and like to read books out of order it's very much doable. I love it when a character gets a really good amount of personal development in a romance and this has that in buckets. Rune is... not a likeable character at first. He's antagonistic to pretty much everyone and he and Atlas don't have the most positive of introductions. Yet, by the end of the book I absolutely adored Rune. He's an intriguing character and someone who actually was capable of some self-reflection. You can truly understand why he is the way he is and while that doesn't excuse his behaviour (rude is rude) it explains it so that you can see it was truly a defence mechanism. Atlas is a total sweetheart. That man is just a giant teddy bear wrapped up in a gargoyle coating. He's sweet and kind and oddly squishable given he's a gargoyle. I have to admit I really liked that his rescue ended up turning into him needing a rescue too. It also set up the perfect time and space for he and Rune to actually get to know each other a bit and see that their mates. Just like the first book, the whole gang makes the book even better. The secondary characters (some of whom hopefully will soon be MCs) are fantastic. I can't wait for what's next!
So, the first thing I'll say is that despite this being book 2 in the series I think you could read it as a standalone. I don't recommend it, but that's more because the first book was great and why wouldn't you want to enjoy it lol. That being said, if you are a total maniac and like to read books out of order it's very much doable. I love it when a character gets a really good amount of personal development in a romance and this has that in buckets. Rune is... not a likeable character at first. He's antagonistic to pretty much everyone and he and Atlas don't have the most positive of introductions. Yet, by the end of the book I absolutely adored Rune. He's an intriguing character and someone who actually was capable of some self-reflection. You can truly understand why he is the way he is and while that doesn't excuse his behaviour (rude is rude) it explains it so that you can see it was truly a defence mechanism. Atlas is a total sweetheart. That man is just a giant teddy bear wrapped up in a gargoyle coating. He's sweet and kind and oddly squishable given he's a gargoyle. I have to admit I really liked that his rescue ended up turning into him needing a rescue too. It also set up the perfect time and space for he and Rune to actually get to know each other a bit and see that their mates. Just like the first book, the whole gang makes the book even better. The secondary characters (some of whom hopefully will soon be MCs) are fantastic. I can't wait for what's next!
January 27, 2026
Prickly perfect love
I loved this fated mates, mage-shifter, forced proximity romance. This well written story was delicious perfection and so good that I read it in one sitting. It included engaging dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and a captivating storyline with sweet moments, spicy spice, real life issues, imperfect characters, painful pasts, dangerous situations, evil actors, laughs, messy families, fate, supernatural creatures, and all the swoony love. Rune is a powerful human mage from a well-known bloodline but keeps to himself and has a few personal connections. Atlas is a gargoyle who is contracted as a mercenary to the demon Auri. Atlas, like all gargoyles, is driven to protect and defend. Rune and Atlas met in the previous book. Unfortunately, when Rune is kidnapped, he realizes his lack of connections means no one will be looking for him. But Atlas has felt connected to Rune since they met and knows that he’s in danger. When Atlas realizes Rune’s in trouble, there is nothing that will stop him from finding and rescuing him even if it means he’s trapped with Rune. To get to their HEA and escape from the magical prison, they’ll need to do some baggage unpacking, truth telling and take a leap of faith. Despite their differences these two are perfect for each other and their story made my heart so happy. I’m excited to read Roman’s story next. 4.5 stars.
I loved this fated mates, mage-shifter, forced proximity romance. This well written story was delicious perfection and so good that I read it in one sitting. It included engaging dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and a captivating storyline with sweet moments, spicy spice, real life issues, imperfect characters, painful pasts, dangerous situations, evil actors, laughs, messy families, fate, supernatural creatures, and all the swoony love. Rune is a powerful human mage from a well-known bloodline but keeps to himself and has a few personal connections. Atlas is a gargoyle who is contracted as a mercenary to the demon Auri. Atlas, like all gargoyles, is driven to protect and defend. Rune and Atlas met in the previous book. Unfortunately, when Rune is kidnapped, he realizes his lack of connections means no one will be looking for him. But Atlas has felt connected to Rune since they met and knows that he’s in danger. When Atlas realizes Rune’s in trouble, there is nothing that will stop him from finding and rescuing him even if it means he’s trapped with Rune. To get to their HEA and escape from the magical prison, they’ll need to do some baggage unpacking, truth telling and take a leap of faith. Despite their differences these two are perfect for each other and their story made my heart so happy. I’m excited to read Roman’s story next. 4.5 stars.
February 28, 2026
Entertaining But Lackluster
I was really excited for this book. Atlas is a total sweetie and Rune is… well the opposite of that. The two together made for a fun pairing and I did genuinely like their romance. The whole opposites attract theme was fun and we did get to see the softer side of Rune eventually.
What bothered me about this book is just how boring the actual plot was. 90% of the book takes place in a jail cell and consists a lot of Rune basically taking advantage of Atlas and his dedication to helping Rune.
The actual action in the book happens over maybe two pages and is over so quick it felt like a slap in the face. To build up a “war” and a bad guy the entire book only to have it over that quick just feels rude as a reader. I really wanted to love this book and I would have if more attention had been paid to drawing out the final battle / drama and giving our MMCs more time to show us how they genuinely fit together beyond the spicy ways.
I hope Roman’s book is an improvement! I’m excited to see who he ends up paired with. And I’m still holding out hope we eventually get an Auri book too.
Tropes: Fated Mates, Opposites Attract, Gargoyle Shifter / Mage, Forced Proximity, Dual POV, Found Family
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ 2/5
Relationship: MM
I was really excited for this book. Atlas is a total sweetie and Rune is… well the opposite of that. The two together made for a fun pairing and I did genuinely like their romance. The whole opposites attract theme was fun and we did get to see the softer side of Rune eventually.
What bothered me about this book is just how boring the actual plot was. 90% of the book takes place in a jail cell and consists a lot of Rune basically taking advantage of Atlas and his dedication to helping Rune.
The actual action in the book happens over maybe two pages and is over so quick it felt like a slap in the face. To build up a “war” and a bad guy the entire book only to have it over that quick just feels rude as a reader. I really wanted to love this book and I would have if more attention had been paid to drawing out the final battle / drama and giving our MMCs more time to show us how they genuinely fit together beyond the spicy ways.
I hope Roman’s book is an improvement! I’m excited to see who he ends up paired with. And I’m still holding out hope we eventually get an Auri book too.
Tropes: Fated Mates, Opposites Attract, Gargoyle Shifter / Mage, Forced Proximity, Dual POV, Found Family
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️ 2/5
Relationship: MM
January 27, 2026
- fated mates
- series
- forced proximity
- paranormal
This is the second in the Damned Mercenaries series, it's best read with first book but can be enjoyed as a standalone. I haven't seen many Gargoyles in paranormal romances, but the ones I have read, I've enjoyed. There is no preamble to this story, we are straight in with the action right from the start. I wasn't sure I liked Rune at first but I did come round to him once I found out his story. Atlas I did like from the start even if he did seem a little naive at times. I do love a good fated mates story and these two were a good match even if they didn't know each other all that well.
I liked the quiet moments with the two when they're together but I did feel that the bond was a bit out of the blue, especially when Rune never even wanted anything more than a one night stand and didn't even like Atlas before they were thrown together. It almost felt like he was using Atlas a little and I'm glad it didn't turn out that way because Atlas is super sweet and deserves everything good.
All in all I enjoyed the story, I liked being back in this world and really do look forward to more stories with this crew.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review
- series
- forced proximity
- paranormal
This is the second in the Damned Mercenaries series, it's best read with first book but can be enjoyed as a standalone. I haven't seen many Gargoyles in paranormal romances, but the ones I have read, I've enjoyed. There is no preamble to this story, we are straight in with the action right from the start. I wasn't sure I liked Rune at first but I did come round to him once I found out his story. Atlas I did like from the start even if he did seem a little naive at times. I do love a good fated mates story and these two were a good match even if they didn't know each other all that well.
I liked the quiet moments with the two when they're together but I did feel that the bond was a bit out of the blue, especially when Rune never even wanted anything more than a one night stand and didn't even like Atlas before they were thrown together. It almost felt like he was using Atlas a little and I'm glad it didn't turn out that way because Atlas is super sweet and deserves everything good.
All in all I enjoyed the story, I liked being back in this world and really do look forward to more stories with this crew.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review
February 11, 2026
I was excited about this match-up after meeting both of the characters in book one, Accidental Bond. Atlas is a gargoyle indebted to a demon and part of his mercenary crew. He is big and burly but is loyal, kind, and has a big, squishy heart. And he is having dreams about a rogue Mage who previously kidnapped one of his friends and is not sure why.
Rune is a powerful Mage, but is an untrusting loner. He is cocky, prickly, and powerful, but when someone manages to dampen his powers, he becomes vulnerable and in trouble. And keeping people at arm's length does not give him much hope that he will be rescued.
Surprisingly, Atlas cares enough to try to find him, even though that leads to more complications. Rune has not really had anyone on his side. And Atlas is kind and protective of him. I loved how their trust and bond gradually developed into something neither expected.
This is an MM story about an undeniable pull, a surprising bond, fate, trust, healing, and found family. This motley crew of mercenaries is fun. They are dangerous and effective, but also take care of their own.
Rune is a powerful Mage, but is an untrusting loner. He is cocky, prickly, and powerful, but when someone manages to dampen his powers, he becomes vulnerable and in trouble. And keeping people at arm's length does not give him much hope that he will be rescued.
Surprisingly, Atlas cares enough to try to find him, even though that leads to more complications. Rune has not really had anyone on his side. And Atlas is kind and protective of him. I loved how their trust and bond gradually developed into something neither expected.
This is an MM story about an undeniable pull, a surprising bond, fate, trust, healing, and found family. This motley crew of mercenaries is fun. They are dangerous and effective, but also take care of their own.
February 6, 2026
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Accidental Magic is the second book in Mika Nix’s Damned Mercenaries series, following a group of supernatural beings who work as mercenaries for a demon. We met both Atlas and Rune in the first book, Accidental Bond, which sets up the mild antagonism between them. I read Accidental Bond, but I’ll admit that I didn’t remember much about Rune or the specifics of what happened with him in the story to cause the conflict with the mercenaries. So I think a little refresher here as to what happened in the last book would have been helpful. I still think new readers can follow along here, but I think it would have been easier for me to jump back into the series with a little recap on the character dynamics.
I enjoy this group of characters and I think Nix has created a fun group here. We get a bit of a tease for what is next to come and I am looking forward to following along.
Read Jay's review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Accidental Magic is the second book in Mika Nix’s Damned Mercenaries series, following a group of supernatural beings who work as mercenaries for a demon. We met both Atlas and Rune in the first book, Accidental Bond, which sets up the mild antagonism between them. I read Accidental Bond, but I’ll admit that I didn’t remember much about Rune or the specifics of what happened with him in the story to cause the conflict with the mercenaries. So I think a little refresher here as to what happened in the last book would have been helpful. I still think new readers can follow along here, but I think it would have been easier for me to jump back into the series with a little recap on the character dynamics.
I enjoy this group of characters and I think Nix has created a fun group here. We get a bit of a tease for what is next to come and I am looking forward to following along.
Read Jay's review in its entirety here.
February 24, 2026
‘Accidental Magic’ is the second book in the ‘Damned Mercenaries’ series where we have previously met both Atlas and Rune. Atlas is a gargoyle who is contracted to a demon and Rune is one of the most powerful mages known. Rune is very standoffish and defiant but he has a very good reason for being so which we learn as their story plays out. I loved the lore in this series as how gargoyles come to exist in this universe. I don’t believe I’ve seen it before.
Atlas is oddly and strongly aware of Rune despite barely knowing him at the start of the book and due to a strong awareness of foreboding, he is convinced Rune is in danger and goes on a dogged investigation to find him. Unfortunately his feeling was correct and he discovers that Rune has been abducted by an unknown person. Atlas, who is usually immune to all forms of magic, finds himself curiously trapped with Rune and they work together to break free of their captor. This was a light and quick read and leaves you with a view into who the next member of their team who will find their fated mate.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Atlas is oddly and strongly aware of Rune despite barely knowing him at the start of the book and due to a strong awareness of foreboding, he is convinced Rune is in danger and goes on a dogged investigation to find him. Unfortunately his feeling was correct and he discovers that Rune has been abducted by an unknown person. Atlas, who is usually immune to all forms of magic, finds himself curiously trapped with Rune and they work together to break free of their captor. This was a light and quick read and leaves you with a view into who the next member of their team who will find their fated mate.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
March 5, 2026
The first book of this series was SO good, so I was very much looking forward to this one. However, the pacing was so slow and the main conflict of literally 3/4 of the book gets resolved in maybe 2 or 3 seconds. I've never seen that happen before and it really threw me off. Even one of the side characters said something like 'thats anticlimactic' and period, because then what was the point???
Also, mans made such a big deal out of being sore from engaging in spicy activity with some supernatural guy in the past who had a big 🍆 but then is magically able to take like a 12 or 13 inch apparently massive gargoyle 🍆 in like 3 seconds with no prep??? Not gonna lie, having a spell to get your h*le wet like that is c*nty though. Like even though that solved the problem of lube, does it stretch him out too??? It just seemed like that would HURT 😬 But the whole scene was super rushed and I would have loved to have it expanded over more than just a few minutes.
Lastly, idk why but mans just casually blending into the floor and walls as his power took me OUT 💀 No disrespect to the author, but can you imagine being in a supernatural world and that's your only power???
Also, mans made such a big deal out of being sore from engaging in spicy activity with some supernatural guy in the past who had a big 🍆 but then is magically able to take like a 12 or 13 inch apparently massive gargoyle 🍆 in like 3 seconds with no prep??? Not gonna lie, having a spell to get your h*le wet like that is c*nty though. Like even though that solved the problem of lube, does it stretch him out too??? It just seemed like that would HURT 😬 But the whole scene was super rushed and I would have loved to have it expanded over more than just a few minutes.
Lastly, idk why but mans just casually blending into the floor and walls as his power took me OUT 💀 No disrespect to the author, but can you imagine being in a supernatural world and that's your only power???
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a pairing Atlas and Rune make. Atlas is such a sweet gargoyle and is the perfect match for the prickly, snarky and very powerful mage Rune who happens to find himself in a precarious situation. Atlas feels the slightest of connections to Rune after a previous encounter and after seeking help from other supernaturals to assist in locating him, finds himself alongside Rune and unable to escape. It takes a lot of magic, ingenuity and help from many others before Rune and Atlas find themselves enjoying freedom again. If they just so happened to discover they were fated mates along the way - bonus! There’s steam mixed with sweet, some drama and action and a well deserved HEA for these two wonderful characters. Of course the characters from the first book aren’t left out and we get a sneak peek as to who gets their story told next. This is a very relaxing and enjoyable read that entertained from start to finish.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Second in series (Damned Mercenaries), best if read in order. Paranormal. Fated mates. Forced proximity. Slow burn. Found family. Dual POV.
For some reason gargoyle mercenary Atlas wakes one night knowing the powerful mage he once helped chase is now in danger. Rune should be able to take care of himself, but Atlas’s rescue ends up with them both in close quarters and trying some unique ways to escape.
This story is slow to build, but once Atlas and Rune are sharing close proximity it easily follows that as fated mates they are at their best once together. I enjoyed Rune’s confidence and Atlas’s kindness, and I wished there was more time spent on them getting to know each other before they became bonded. This was an entertaining story and I thought Rune’s backstory was compelling, if only we had gotten more about Atlas as well. Overall, this was a fun addition to the series and I am invested in seeing when the rest of the band of mercenaries get their HEA’s. 4.25
For some reason gargoyle mercenary Atlas wakes one night knowing the powerful mage he once helped chase is now in danger. Rune should be able to take care of himself, but Atlas’s rescue ends up with them both in close quarters and trying some unique ways to escape.
This story is slow to build, but once Atlas and Rune are sharing close proximity it easily follows that as fated mates they are at their best once together. I enjoyed Rune’s confidence and Atlas’s kindness, and I wished there was more time spent on them getting to know each other before they became bonded. This was an entertaining story and I thought Rune’s backstory was compelling, if only we had gotten more about Atlas as well. Overall, this was a fun addition to the series and I am invested in seeing when the rest of the band of mercenaries get their HEA’s. 4.25
March 6, 2026
"Lacy hands the person talking to me the bottle." Obviously should be, "Lacy hands the bottle to the person talking to me," but I can't stop seeing it as, "Lacy hands the person talking to me, the bottle."
'Rune wants to bond with me just to get his magic back? That’s a lot to consider.
“Bonding is for life, Rune. If it even works, we’ll be tied to each other for eternity.”
He nods, his expression determined. “It’s a chance I’m willing to take.”'
Doesn't even ask Rune if it's a chance HE wants to take? This, plus the blatantly willful blindness to the identity of the captor kinda irritates me. Unless I'm very wrong, which, at 61%, I'll soon discover.
"Atlas searches my eyes for a moment as his turn glassy. Shoot, this is a big deal for him. I’m not being too selfish though. I need my magic back to save us both. His life depends on it too."
I mean, it's been, what, two weeks at most? Give the other guys a chance.
Enjoyed it though. They tell a good story!
'Rune wants to bond with me just to get his magic back? That’s a lot to consider.
“Bonding is for life, Rune. If it even works, we’ll be tied to each other for eternity.”
He nods, his expression determined. “It’s a chance I’m willing to take.”'
Doesn't even ask Rune if it's a chance HE wants to take? This, plus the blatantly willful blindness to the identity of the captor kinda irritates me. Unless I'm very wrong, which, at 61%, I'll soon discover.
"Atlas searches my eyes for a moment as his turn glassy. Shoot, this is a big deal for him. I’m not being too selfish though. I need my magic back to save us both. His life depends on it too."
I mean, it's been, what, two weeks at most? Give the other guys a chance.
Enjoyed it though. They tell a good story!
Review of advance copy
"I still have no idea where such a strong connection with Rune originated, but I am sure that it’s beneficial right now."
This is book 2 in the Damned Mercenaries series by the writing duo of Mika Nix (Mia Monroe & K.M. Neuhold). It's also a spin-off of the series, Drake Security (or as I like to refer to it the Drake brothers).
Wow, I'm loving this series!!! The plots have been amazing and the characters are so diverse which, for me, makes for a great series of books to come. Can I take a minute to mention that book cover!?! It's fire!!!
Atlas is such a marshmallow and it makes me want a gargoyle of my own. Even though he and Rune, the powerful mage we met in book 1, didn't have an auspicious start... Atlas moved heaven and earth just to find him.
Roman's up next, I can't wait!!!
This is book 2 in the Damned Mercenaries series by the writing duo of Mika Nix (Mia Monroe & K.M. Neuhold). It's also a spin-off of the series, Drake Security (or as I like to refer to it the Drake brothers).
Wow, I'm loving this series!!! The plots have been amazing and the characters are so diverse which, for me, makes for a great series of books to come. Can I take a minute to mention that book cover!?! It's fire!!!
Atlas is such a marshmallow and it makes me want a gargoyle of my own. Even though he and Rune, the powerful mage we met in book 1, didn't have an auspicious start... Atlas moved heaven and earth just to find him.
Roman's up next, I can't wait!!!
February 7, 2026
3.5 rounded to 4 stars...will explain in a bit, but this is the second in the latest series by our two authors writing as Mika Nix. We get Rune, our very powerful Mage, and Atlas, our gargoyle mercenary 's story. We get a really good story with both being prickly (what's the joke about porcupines?), with fated mates, with dual povs, with force proximity. I love the various paranormals we have gotten so far...dragon, demon, mage, gargoyle. Of course Atlas' fellow Mercenaries from Hell, literally and figuratively, help with their rescue. And it turns out there is such a thing as a magic "peen" that led to smexy times, that "cured" Rune, that helped them escape. It's glorious. The speed bump for me is I really need more groveling from the baddie, sorry. All in all, a good PNR and I'm looking forward to Roman's HEA.
March 4, 2026
Accidental Magic - Atlas & Rune
“We might have to… increase our efforts.” “What does that mean?” Rune glances away, tucking a lock of his hair behind his ear. “Oh, you know, maybe a little more than kissing.” I hope my face doesn’t reveal how excited that sentence just made me. Mess around with the mage to get his magic back? Count me in. “Whatever you need, Rune.” He smiles, managing to look shy. “What a surprise you are,” he says, repeating his earlier words. “Back atcha.”
Sweet gargoyle Atlas can’t get seem to get mage Rune out of his mind. When he feels that Rune is in danger, he valiantly tries to help. As the two are confined, each must determine if their need to safely escape is worth the magical price they will need to pay!
Mika Nix continues to entrance readers with their supernatural romances!
“We might have to… increase our efforts.” “What does that mean?” Rune glances away, tucking a lock of his hair behind his ear. “Oh, you know, maybe a little more than kissing.” I hope my face doesn’t reveal how excited that sentence just made me. Mess around with the mage to get his magic back? Count me in. “Whatever you need, Rune.” He smiles, managing to look shy. “What a surprise you are,” he says, repeating his earlier words. “Back atcha.”
Sweet gargoyle Atlas can’t get seem to get mage Rune out of his mind. When he feels that Rune is in danger, he valiantly tries to help. As the two are confined, each must determine if their need to safely escape is worth the magical price they will need to pay!
Mika Nix continues to entrance readers with their supernatural romances!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such an enjoyable story! Atlas is such a protective sweetheart! When he feels Rune is in trouble, he does whatever it takes to help him regardless of his attitude the first time they met. Rune is so prickly and keeps to himself which is why when he finds himself in a bad situation, he doesn’t think anyone will be helping him. I loved watching these two get to know each other and learn their backstories. There was a whole lot more to Rune than what we got at first glance. I liked the suspense in this and how everyone pitched in to help. I was very happy how everything ended up going! Very enjoyable read and can’t wait for the next one! Very highly recommend! This is my honest opinion of this complimentary copy of this book
Review of advance copy received from Author
Damned Mercenaries book 2, Gargoyle Atlas, and Mage Rune. Superpowered chaos goblin Rune. Expansion of the world, I really enjoyed meeting more characters and seeing different uses, and types of magic. 100% for cage dancing merman. Atlas is solid and loyal is the best way. Something deeply confusing to Rune due to his horrible family and history. I did love the we have to 'use sex magic for ... reasons' it was 100% eagerly embraced by bother parties and neccesary. Rune ready to set Auri on his ass at even a hint of mistreatment of Atlas was wonderful. Eagerly awaiting the next instalment of Damned Mercenaries.
February 6, 2026
Atlas is a big, strong, sensitive, marshmallow of a gargoyle. Just don’t tell anyone, ok? His protective streak is a mile wide and fixated on one grumpy, irritating - and missing - witch. Rune is used to being an island, but sometimes you need help….even if you don’t want to admit it. When he finds himself being held captive, he isn’t going to get out on his own. These two work together and balance each other out. I loved this one! The ending is a bit anticlimactic, but it works out for the best in the end. Fantastic story.
February 6, 2026
Accidental Magic is a fun read by the awesome duo that is Mika Nix. We once again meet Auri’s ragtag group of supernatural treasure finders, but this story focuses on the gargoyle, Atlas, and his human mage, Rune. We met Rune first in Drax and Mac’s book, so it was quite enjoyable to get to meet up with him again and learn his story. And Atlas—for a man made of stone, he sure is a softie. This is a wonderful tale that includes lots of drama, magic, found family and fated mates. It can be read as a standalone, but honestly, why would you want to do that?
February 7, 2026
Rune and Atlas
Gargoyle Atlas can’t stop thinking about snarky mage, Rune for some reason. When Rune disappears, Atlas will do anything to find him and figure out why they’re connected.
These two were so fun. I loved watching them go toe to toe and fight their inevitable attraction. We find out how much of a cinnamon roll Atlas really is as he falls for the prickliest mage on the planet. The world building is pretty fascinating as well. I enjoyed learning more about different abilities of all the species. I can’t wait for the next one!
Gargoyle Atlas can’t stop thinking about snarky mage, Rune for some reason. When Rune disappears, Atlas will do anything to find him and figure out why they’re connected.
These two were so fun. I loved watching them go toe to toe and fight their inevitable attraction. We find out how much of a cinnamon roll Atlas really is as he falls for the prickliest mage on the planet. The world building is pretty fascinating as well. I enjoyed learning more about different abilities of all the species. I can’t wait for the next one!
February 8, 2026
Such a sweet gargoyle!
1st person POV Dual
Plot 4/5
Spice 1.5/5
Gargoyle/ Mage
Fated Mates
Trapped together
Grumpy/ Sunshine
Protective
Found Family/ Friends
Atlas is so sweet and protective! I just adored him! Rune is stand off ish but has good reason for being the way he is.
When Rune finds himself in a bit of a pickle and no magic to help himself he isn't sure what to do, he assumes no one is looking for him, little does he know fate had other plans in the form of a soft hearted gargoyle who will stop at nothing to get to Rune!
1st person POV Dual
Plot 4/5
Spice 1.5/5
Gargoyle/ Mage
Fated Mates
Trapped together
Grumpy/ Sunshine
Protective
Found Family/ Friends
Atlas is so sweet and protective! I just adored him! Rune is stand off ish but has good reason for being the way he is.
When Rune finds himself in a bit of a pickle and no magic to help himself he isn't sure what to do, he assumes no one is looking for him, little does he know fate had other plans in the form of a soft hearted gargoyle who will stop at nothing to get to Rune!
February 19, 2026
Phew were these two made for each other or what. Runes walls were built so high and so strongly it was almost a miracle to watch Atlas wiggle his was through. Once you find out about Runes past though it all makes sense. Once these two finally let their walls down and connect they were so sweet together, even if Rune is still a badass to everyone else. Only downside was that I guessed the protagonist early on and got a bit frustrated with how long it took the characters to figure it out. But the story wouldn’t have worked any other way either.
March 18, 2026
The series preceding this one was so great, but this second series has been a struggle to get through for me. This is a forced proximity fated mates romance between a Gargoyle, and a VERY powerful mage with a tragic backstory that should have had all the right ingredients… but the tragic backstory actually didn’t make me feel a thing, & I didn’t connect with the characters in any way… plus the found family was there but also… idk I just don’t feel anything for any of them 😅 maybe this is a me problem 🙃
the exception is Auri & his Cerberus inspired hell hound, Grim. THEM I do love.
the exception is Auri & his Cerberus inspired hell hound, Grim. THEM I do love.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is the second book in the Damned Mercenaries series by Mika Nix. It tells the story of mage Rune Delaport and Atlas the mercenary gargoyle. I really enjoyed the story and thought the two characters had great chemistry. Atlas is a cinnamon roll of a gargoyle. Rune is a snarky quirky mage with a tragic backstory. The focus is on the two leads but there is some interaction with the other mercenaries. Fans of mm paranormal romance will love this story.
I received an ARC prior to release.
I received an ARC prior to release.
February 6, 2026
More crazy shenanigans with the Damned Mercenaries. Atlas dreams that Rune is in trouble and, although he doesn't know why, feels the need to save him. Rune is in trouble. He has no idea who has kidnapped or why and he can't access his magic to free himself. I loved Rune's snark and Atlas's steady presence. They really do balance each other out. This was a fun, flirty story with twists, turns and intrigue. I loved it.
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