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The Masks of Under #2
King of Shadows
Some call him a madman. Others call him a warlock. Both are true.
But if it wasn’t for Aon, I’d be dead. I was mere seconds away from dying by Edu’s hands when the King of Shadows appeared in a flash of lightning, saving me from Edu’s murderous plans.
Now I’m under his protection, living in his home. The more time I’m forced to spend with him, the more I start to piece together the puzzle of why Aon and Edu are at war.
Despite how everyone else seems to hate Aon, there’s something that pulls me towards him—like gravity, refusing to let go. My heart is telling me to believe what he says is true, yet there’s this prickle of warning in the back of my skull cautioning me against falling for the King of Shadows.
In the world of Under trusting the wrong person can get you killed. Only the strong survive out here, and that’s what I intend to do.
Survive.
But if it wasn’t for Aon, I’d be dead. I was mere seconds away from dying by Edu’s hands when the King of Shadows appeared in a flash of lightning, saving me from Edu’s murderous plans.
Now I’m under his protection, living in his home. The more time I’m forced to spend with him, the more I start to piece together the puzzle of why Aon and Edu are at war.
Despite how everyone else seems to hate Aon, there’s something that pulls me towards him—like gravity, refusing to let go. My heart is telling me to believe what he says is true, yet there’s this prickle of warning in the back of my skull cautioning me against falling for the King of Shadows.
In the world of Under trusting the wrong person can get you killed. Only the strong survive out here, and that’s what I intend to do.
Survive.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 26, 2019
591 people are currently reading
769 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Ann Kingsley
66 books2,449 followersKathryn has always been a storyteller. Years of scriptwriting for performances on stage and for tourism in Boston led her to writing romantically dark, fantastical tales, which was an obsession of hers that began once seeing The Phantom of the Opera at a young age.
When she isn’t penning new villainous leads, she works in video game development. There, she has been everything from Creative Director to Chief of Staff, Design Manager, Executive Producer, and Principal Writer for various companies in the industry.
She shares her antique home with three very fluffy animals and one very patient and loving husband.
When she isn’t penning new villainous leads, she works in video game development. There, she has been everything from Creative Director to Chief of Staff, Design Manager, Executive Producer, and Principal Writer for various companies in the industry.
She shares her antique home with three very fluffy animals and one very patient and loving husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
December 16, 2024
An electrifying fantasy (romantic horror?) that dives deep into a dangerous world where trust is as rare as safety.
This second in the series was so much better than the first. Lydia is caught between two powerful foes, Aon, the mysterious King of Shadows, and Edu, a relentless enemy who refuses to listen to reason. Aon’s dual nature as both savior and villain makes you question whether he’s worthy of trust or if he’s hiding a darker truth.
✔️Urban fantasy
✔️Strong fmc
✔️Huge age gap - he’s 2000+ years older.
✔️Violent
✔️Parallel universe
✔️Smokin HOT
✔️Brutal cliffhanger
The hero is a lighter version of Kane from Heat by R. Lee Smith, he's not always likable, but there's just something about him.
This series has been recently updated with on-page graphic intimacy, and additional chapters, so don't let those older reviews stop you from diving in. This one is HOT.
This second in the series was so much better than the first. Lydia is caught between two powerful foes, Aon, the mysterious King of Shadows, and Edu, a relentless enemy who refuses to listen to reason. Aon’s dual nature as both savior and villain makes you question whether he’s worthy of trust or if he’s hiding a darker truth.
✔️Urban fantasy
✔️Strong fmc
✔️Huge age gap - he’s 2000+ years older.
✔️Violent
✔️Parallel universe
✔️Smokin HOT
✔️Brutal cliffhanger
The hero is a lighter version of Kane from Heat by R. Lee Smith, he's not always likable, but there's just something about him.
This series has been recently updated with on-page graphic intimacy, and additional chapters, so don't let those older reviews stop you from diving in. This one is HOT.
January 31, 2025
31/1/25
I’m currently rereading this entire series as I bloody devoured and adored it back when I first dived in. It’s one that I was fan-girling over so hard and was an easy five star read back then. My one and only complaint was the lack of any serious spice between Lydia & Aon. So obviously when I heard it was being re-released with all of that delicious content that I so desperately wanted of course I’m going to purchase the whole series in paperback to reread and then have as book trophies for my shelves. This for me is now perfect and the total cherry and I enjoyed rediscovering all of the magic once more. This author is an auto-buy for me and I adore everything i pick up of there’s. This is still a top-tier series for me and I highly recommend reading if you’re after a unique fresh fantasy read.
This was all sorts of fabulous and I was salivating to get started here. I had a couple to read on my list before this and it nearly killed me to wait but the anticipation definitely lived up to my internal hype and I'm all sorts of digging "King of Shadows" and would go as far as to say this is my stand out series so far this year.
This begins exactly where we left things in the previous instalment and Lydia still seemed very fearful and wary where it concerned Aon and his unknown intentions towards her, while this was an understandable reaction from her I did want her to come to the realisation faster that despite his violent actions in her dreams he had never harmed her in any real physical sense. Not only that he also assured her repeatedly that he has no plans to do so considering her fragile human state.
So Aon, (that is who I am concentrating on in this review as Lydia got the stage last time around) well he does so love his mind games and employs this strange quirk of his constantly around Lydia. Sometimes throwing all etiquette and rules to proper social behaviour and norms out of the door.
Aon certainly dances to his own piper and does seem mostly unaware of his unusual and improper conduct around others. There is at times an almost devilishly wicked but almost fun vibe to Aon's encounters with Lydia its almost like he finds her a breath of fresh air in his long mundane existence, an anomaly, if you will, one he is compelled to analyse and dissect (metaphorically of course)
"King Of Shadows" was very slow burn in nature and also wasn't that graphic, when it comes to the encounters between Lydia and Aon a lot is left to your own imagination this was not an issue for me at all: the chemistry here was still through the actual roof and pulsated off the page I could still feel the carnal tension and developing emotion between Lydia and Aon in actual spades.
I mentioned previously how much I adored Lydia now Aon also gets the seal of approval from moi.
He is just so wickedly delicious with a large hint of bad that just left me panting in his wake, Lyd never really stood a chance here. I also should mention that the old-world prose and descriptions of this fantastical new world were so vivid and real that I could actually picture Under in my mind.
I felt like I had been dropped into an episode of The Twilight Zone or even a very macabre alternate wonderland.
So let us talk about Aon's supposed madness: well this to me came across as a somewhat forgetful and eccentric nature more than likely brought about by his advanced age rather than any insanity or psychosis itself, I found this an extremely endearing and somewhat charming quality to him: In fact, there were even times that Aon reminded me very much of a gorgeous and delicious Mad Hatter.
So, this has some of the best world-building I've experienced to date, it was brilliant and just ever so entertaining indeed. The old-world prose mixed with a huge dash of steampunk just worked for me on every level. The writing itself is also second to none and I devoured every single word, this really was in a league all of its own and that ending, my god I need that next book like right now people. This series so far has been amazing and I'm sorry for my waffling on but I am just so in love here. Think it's a tad obvious by now that this one gets my stamp of approval.
So before I toddle off On a side note, I did appreciate that sneak peek of book three very much appreciated. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "King Of Shadows (The Masks of Under #2)" All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
I’m currently rereading this entire series as I bloody devoured and adored it back when I first dived in. It’s one that I was fan-girling over so hard and was an easy five star read back then. My one and only complaint was the lack of any serious spice between Lydia & Aon. So obviously when I heard it was being re-released with all of that delicious content that I so desperately wanted of course I’m going to purchase the whole series in paperback to reread and then have as book trophies for my shelves. This for me is now perfect and the total cherry and I enjoyed rediscovering all of the magic once more. This author is an auto-buy for me and I adore everything i pick up of there’s. This is still a top-tier series for me and I highly recommend reading if you’re after a unique fresh fantasy read.
This was all sorts of fabulous and I was salivating to get started here. I had a couple to read on my list before this and it nearly killed me to wait but the anticipation definitely lived up to my internal hype and I'm all sorts of digging "King of Shadows" and would go as far as to say this is my stand out series so far this year.
This begins exactly where we left things in the previous instalment and Lydia still seemed very fearful and wary where it concerned Aon and his unknown intentions towards her, while this was an understandable reaction from her I did want her to come to the realisation faster that despite his violent actions in her dreams he had never harmed her in any real physical sense. Not only that he also assured her repeatedly that he has no plans to do so considering her fragile human state.
So Aon, (that is who I am concentrating on in this review as Lydia got the stage last time around) well he does so love his mind games and employs this strange quirk of his constantly around Lydia. Sometimes throwing all etiquette and rules to proper social behaviour and norms out of the door.
Aon certainly dances to his own piper and does seem mostly unaware of his unusual and improper conduct around others. There is at times an almost devilishly wicked but almost fun vibe to Aon's encounters with Lydia its almost like he finds her a breath of fresh air in his long mundane existence, an anomaly, if you will, one he is compelled to analyse and dissect (metaphorically of course)
"King Of Shadows" was very slow burn in nature and also wasn't that graphic, when it comes to the encounters between Lydia and Aon a lot is left to your own imagination this was not an issue for me at all: the chemistry here was still through the actual roof and pulsated off the page I could still feel the carnal tension and developing emotion between Lydia and Aon in actual spades.
I mentioned previously how much I adored Lydia now Aon also gets the seal of approval from moi.
He is just so wickedly delicious with a large hint of bad that just left me panting in his wake, Lyd never really stood a chance here. I also should mention that the old-world prose and descriptions of this fantastical new world were so vivid and real that I could actually picture Under in my mind.
I felt like I had been dropped into an episode of The Twilight Zone or even a very macabre alternate wonderland.
So let us talk about Aon's supposed madness: well this to me came across as a somewhat forgetful and eccentric nature more than likely brought about by his advanced age rather than any insanity or psychosis itself, I found this an extremely endearing and somewhat charming quality to him: In fact, there were even times that Aon reminded me very much of a gorgeous and delicious Mad Hatter.
So, this has some of the best world-building I've experienced to date, it was brilliant and just ever so entertaining indeed. The old-world prose mixed with a huge dash of steampunk just worked for me on every level. The writing itself is also second to none and I devoured every single word, this really was in a league all of its own and that ending, my god I need that next book like right now people. This series so far has been amazing and I'm sorry for my waffling on but I am just so in love here. Think it's a tad obvious by now that this one gets my stamp of approval.
So before I toddle off On a side note, I did appreciate that sneak peek of book three very much appreciated. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "King Of Shadows (The Masks of Under #2)" All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
June 15, 2019
Re-read 15th June 2019.
I’m ready for books 3 and 4 now 🤗🤗🤗
Original review.
I had mixed feelings on the previous book King of a Flames. But Aon intrigued me enough to make me carry on.
And I’m so glad I did. I really enjoyed this book.
Originally this series was three long books which the publisher decided to cut to six short books. For me personally I would have preferred the three long ones. Or certainly a long first book to allow us to settle into the series.
So for me it was a mistake to cut the first book.
But anyway I digress.
Having read both books I’m hooked and absolutely loving this series. Aon is a fabulous, complex, misunderstood character and I can’t wait for the next book.
“I will test your limits. I will tempt you and trick you. I will toy with you. I fear I do very much love to play games.” Aon’s voice was the cutting edge of a blade, sharp and dangerous. “But you may always refuse me. That is my promise to you. My vow.”
Lydia impressed me in the first book. Here she annoyed me a little just because I wanted her and Aon to move forward. She was dragging her heals and I just wanted to give her a push. It’s safe to say this is a slow burn and the sexy times are mild and often happen off page. Making this suitable for the YA market.
The world building again is wonderful. And while it’s obvious about half way in what’s going to happen with Lydia. The journey itself was fun.
I have to say this book went further than I’d expected. I’d just assumed it would have ended on the street (I’m trying not to make this a spoiler review) and the rest would be the start of the next book. So that was a pleasant surprise.
I was a little worried when I heard it ended on a cliffhanger. So while I’m desperately waiting for the next book I’m left wondering if I’m missing something. The problem is I don’t consider it a cliffhanger since we knew how it was going to end.
Unless of course I’m missing something?
Now I’m wondering what I’ve missed. I suppose only the next book will answer that question.
I’m ready for books 3 and 4 now 🤗🤗🤗
Original review.
I had mixed feelings on the previous book King of a Flames. But Aon intrigued me enough to make me carry on.
And I’m so glad I did. I really enjoyed this book.
Originally this series was three long books which the publisher decided to cut to six short books. For me personally I would have preferred the three long ones. Or certainly a long first book to allow us to settle into the series.
So for me it was a mistake to cut the first book.
But anyway I digress.
Having read both books I’m hooked and absolutely loving this series. Aon is a fabulous, complex, misunderstood character and I can’t wait for the next book.
“I will test your limits. I will tempt you and trick you. I will toy with you. I fear I do very much love to play games.” Aon’s voice was the cutting edge of a blade, sharp and dangerous. “But you may always refuse me. That is my promise to you. My vow.”
Lydia impressed me in the first book. Here she annoyed me a little just because I wanted her and Aon to move forward. She was dragging her heals and I just wanted to give her a push. It’s safe to say this is a slow burn and the sexy times are mild and often happen off page. Making this suitable for the YA market.
The world building again is wonderful. And while it’s obvious about half way in what’s going to happen with Lydia. The journey itself was fun.
I have to say this book went further than I’d expected. I’d just assumed it would have ended on the street (I’m trying not to make this a spoiler review) and the rest would be the start of the next book. So that was a pleasant surprise.
I was a little worried when I heard it ended on a cliffhanger. So while I’m desperately waiting for the next book I’m left wondering if I’m missing something. The problem is I don’t consider it a cliffhanger since we knew how it was going to end.
Unless of course I’m missing something?
Now I’m wondering what I’ve missed. I suppose only the next book will answer that question.
March 25, 2019
First off, I am just going to say Lydia is my spirit animal. Christ on a cracker I LOVE her character! The whole scene with Otoi...GOLD. Pure gold. (lol)
This book was just as enjoyable as book one. The writing remains top notch. It was well paced. The amazing world and character building continues. The cast of intriguing secondary characters grows. I'm completely #shipping Lydia and Aon. We even get some sexy times (PG 13) but still very sexy. Last, that ending...gaah! I need book three NOW...
However, I had one teensy little issue. Not even an issue per se, more disappointment regarding how a married couple behaves in Under. That said, UNDER doesn't have the same rules and rituals of humans, so I am trying to just roll with it. (lol)
April 30, 2019
The follow up to King of Flames sees the very human Lydia separated from her friends and at the mercy of Aon, the King of Shadows. Lydia is struggling to understand how Under works but is under no doubt that Edu, the King of Flames will kill her in a heartbeat . The problem is shes now at the not so tender mercy of Aon, who has never pretended not even in nightmares to be sane. Aon is full of tricks and happily indulges in mind games but no matter how strange or frightening everything is Lydia is determined not to lose herself and meet every challenge head on !
I thoroughly enjoyed finding out about Under and why everything there is the way it is. Not the usual fantasy and certainly chock full of unique characters and situations. My only slight niggle was this the second book takes a powerful male who previously has been portrayed as the villain and turns him into the romantic hero which reminded me of A Court of Mist and Fury. There the similarities end as this can be quite bleak with dire atrocities alluded to and trust me I really wouldn't fancy eating a meal in Under.
Ok I will admit as things became clearer I did have an uncanny feeling just where the plot was going so please my fellow reader be prepared for a cliff hanger which has me sat here thinking I need the next book now !
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
I thoroughly enjoyed finding out about Under and why everything there is the way it is. Not the usual fantasy and certainly chock full of unique characters and situations. My only slight niggle was this the second book takes a powerful male who previously has been portrayed as the villain and turns him into the romantic hero which reminded me of A Court of Mist and Fury. There the similarities end as this can be quite bleak with dire atrocities alluded to and trust me I really wouldn't fancy eating a meal in Under.
Ok I will admit as things became clearer I did have an uncanny feeling just where the plot was going so please my fellow reader be prepared for a cliff hanger which has me sat here thinking I need the next book now !
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
April 22, 2019
OMFG...a bloody cliffhanger. Are you for reals right now!
This series is amazing, I can't lie. It is awesome. I loved it, I cried a little at the end , it's just so good. I need book three asap. It's so good. I literally cannot find one bad thing about it, well except the cliffhanger ending, that sucks.
You have got to read this book. Totally amazing.
This series is amazing, I can't lie. It is awesome. I loved it, I cried a little at the end , it's just so good. I need book three asap. It's so good. I literally cannot find one bad thing about it, well except the cliffhanger ending, that sucks.
You have got to read this book. Totally amazing.
June 29, 2019
I am fangirling over Kathryn Ann Kingsley. I absolutely love her storytelling, her creativness, her world building and her artwork. Such amazing talent!
The tone is slightly different in this book. In the first book I was freaked out by the horrors. In this book I learned to love the horrors. Beautiful character building with Aon and an undeniable strong bond between Aon and Lydia. If there's ever a best book couple poll it would have to go to Aon and Lydia.
Lydia and Aon. Artist Kathryn Ann Kingsley
April 26, 2019
Fuck yes! I need more.
More of Lydia and her fresh spirit and strong will. More of Aon and his sexy playfulness and cruel sadism. More of their crazy chemistry!
Everything was too confusing. It was all too much. Aon was all at once compassionate and a monster, hunting her in the shadows and consoling her in the light. A gentleman and a beast, who was asking permission to do terrible things to her.
I love how Kingsley managed to make all her characters so incredibly multi-dimensional. How in one second, you despise their existence and want to rip their throat out, and the next you want nothing more than to dig deeper into their mind and, in one case, their *cough* pants *cough*.
Yeah, yeah, it's obviously Aon I'm talking about. I'm a total goner. I didn't stand a chance against his questionable charme. He's the epitome of an anti-hero, you don't want to crush on someone like him, but do anyway because underneath all his violence and power and fiendishness, there's... something. Something vulnerable, something noble and worth saving. I'm just glad Lydia sees it the same way and manages to lure out this gentle, playful side of him.
"It's incredibly weird that you can be inside of my dreams, by the way."
"Perhaps I was not there. Perhaps you were merely dreaming of me on your own. Your dark pursuer and savior all at once," Aon mused playfully.
"Really?"
"No."
Lydia glared at him.
And that ending, man... I'm actually expected to wait an entire month for the sequel now? Cruel. That's just cruel.
However, I'm sure in the end, it'll be worth the wait.
May 31, 2019
A roller coaster
That pretty much defines this book.
This. WHat? Huh?!
Hold it right there! Stop! Just Staph!!
I know I said to wait till the series ends but y'all I recant that statement. You need to jump on this band wagon as fast as your tiny reader wallets can get you cause Aon is precious of all precious and NEEDS to be shared with others.
The world needs this pure ray of sunshine!
Hah! see what I did there?
No. You don't. Cause you haven't read it yet!!
This was the best book I've read so far and if book one was what reeled me in, this one might as well have cemented my staying. I quite seriously am not going anywhere, I am addicted and will probably relapse if I don't get my fix soon!
It really had everything, there was humor, a badass lead, an absolutely precious "hero", epic world building and fantastic writing, I am in LOVE!
July 17, 2019
At the end of book one, Lydia escapes Edu (the King of Flames) only to find herself in the clutches of Aon (the King of Shadows). As his prisoner/guest, she discovers that only some of his horrific reputation is true. Tension builds between the two of them while the rest of Under wonders what is going on. In the end, the Oracle claims
I am loving this series so far. Most of this book is devoted to developing the relationship between Aon and Lydia. I ship them so much even though Aon has some significant character flaws. The end is a HUGE cliffhanger. I am already invested and hooked, so I simply must dive into the next book immediately. Eek, I can't wait to find out what happens!
I am loving this series so far. Most of this book is devoted to developing the relationship between Aon and Lydia. I ship them so much even though Aon has some significant character flaws. The end is a HUGE cliffhanger. I am already invested and hooked, so I simply must dive into the next book immediately. Eek, I can't wait to find out what happens!
April 12, 2019
Aon chuckled. “I am quite jealous that you were dreaming of some other man dismantling you. I have not made an appropriate impression upon you, I see. I must try harder next time.”
Aon is by far and away the creepiest love interest I’ve read this year and I’m here for it.
This book ends on a cliffhanger so there’s that.
February 27, 2023
Let’s say… 3.75, rounded up.
Maybe I’m getting sentimental in my old age, but that last chapter made me CRY. 😭
This is still too PG and not dark enough for my tastes. Lydia is still annoying, and squeaks way too much for an almost 30-yo woman. The writing could use some more polishing. And I am NOT a fan of the predictable AF 'chosen one' trope (honestly, that’s an understatement). But! This was much better than the first book, especially the second half. Now let’s see if Lydia doesn’t fuck it all up.
Also… So far, Aon has got to be KAK’s softest villain. 🥺 Lydia doesn’t deserve him. 🔪
Maybe I’m getting sentimental in my old age, but that last chapter made me CRY. 😭
This is still too PG and not dark enough for my tastes. Lydia is still annoying, and squeaks way too much for an almost 30-yo woman. The writing could use some more polishing. And I am NOT a fan of the predictable AF 'chosen one' trope (honestly, that’s an understatement). But! This was much better than the first book, especially the second half. Now let’s see if Lydia doesn’t fuck it all up.
Also… So far, Aon has got to be KAK’s softest villain. 🥺 Lydia doesn’t deserve him. 🔪
November 27, 2020
“From you, I will have everything.”
Did I just find a new book boyfriend? I'm pretty sure I'm officially obsessed with Aon and his madness.
“If I did not find you worth my time, you would not be occupying so much of it.”
I also honestly didn't think their relationship would be this cute and sensual at the same time. Aon is also such a softy to her, but still so full of sexiness🔥The only thing that could make it better would be full sex scenes🤷
May the Ancients lay damned in their prison until this world ceased to be. For Aon had loved her.
😭😭😭
“It is in memory of the friendship we once shared that I will answer you thusly. I have decided after long efforts…this world is no longer worth saving. And if it is to be destroyed, then I shall not see it wither into indignancy. I shall see it burn.”
“For millennia I have had to listen to you all whimper and whine like children about how I seek to destroy this world. Heed me now, Priest, and know that you have not once seen me try.”
“Know that I will be the death that will rain down upon all you have made.”
Yaaass baeeee!! Do I finally get to see an Aon killing spree?🤞
For that day so long ago when he had taken Qta’s life, he had demanded Qta make for him a queen. He had demanded he build someone to love him. Qta refused, and Aon murdered him in his rage.
In the desire to love, and more importantly, to be loved, he had destroyed the world.
This writing is beyond perfection, especially in the epilogue, which I think I reread about 5 times. 🙌 please let Aon go into a murderous rage🤞
Did I just find a new book boyfriend? I'm pretty sure I'm officially obsessed with Aon and his madness.
“If I did not find you worth my time, you would not be occupying so much of it.”
I also honestly didn't think their relationship would be this cute and sensual at the same time. Aon is also such a softy to her, but still so full of sexiness🔥The only thing that could make it better would be full sex scenes🤷
May the Ancients lay damned in their prison until this world ceased to be. For Aon had loved her.
😭😭😭
“It is in memory of the friendship we once shared that I will answer you thusly. I have decided after long efforts…this world is no longer worth saving. And if it is to be destroyed, then I shall not see it wither into indignancy. I shall see it burn.”
“For millennia I have had to listen to you all whimper and whine like children about how I seek to destroy this world. Heed me now, Priest, and know that you have not once seen me try.”
“Know that I will be the death that will rain down upon all you have made.”
Yaaass baeeee!! Do I finally get to see an Aon killing spree?🤞
For that day so long ago when he had taken Qta’s life, he had demanded Qta make for him a queen. He had demanded he build someone to love him. Qta refused, and Aon murdered him in his rage.
In the desire to love, and more importantly, to be loved, he had destroyed the world.
This writing is beyond perfection, especially in the epilogue, which I think I reread about 5 times. 🙌 please let Aon go into a murderous rage🤞
June 22, 2019
I really loved this!
The first book had so much potential and it was totally carried off in this book.
I read that the first two books were originally one big book and I think I would have preferred it if they were.
Nevertheless, tgis book both expands on the intriguing world of Under and focuses on the development of the relationship of Aon and Lydia. And I loved every second of it. They are just the sort of couple I love.
And that epilogue damn near broke my heart.
My only criticism is the fade to black sex scenes. That felt a bit lame and out of place considering the dark and adult theme of the books. They are certainly not YA (thank goodness) so it felt like a bit of a cop out to not see how they bond closer through the act.
I did read on another review the author cut the scenes and was going to release them in her blog, so I'll have to look into that.
With the rise of Reverse Harem Academy books and Bully Romance, both of which I have no interest in, saturating the RH market, I'm actually enjoying discovering some new non RH series!
The first book had so much potential and it was totally carried off in this book.
I read that the first two books were originally one big book and I think I would have preferred it if they were.
Nevertheless, tgis book both expands on the intriguing world of Under and focuses on the development of the relationship of Aon and Lydia. And I loved every second of it. They are just the sort of couple I love.
And that epilogue damn near broke my heart.
My only criticism is the fade to black sex scenes. That felt a bit lame and out of place considering the dark and adult theme of the books. They are certainly not YA (thank goodness) so it felt like a bit of a cop out to not see how they bond closer through the act.
I did read on another review the author cut the scenes and was going to release them in her blog, so I'll have to look into that.
With the rise of Reverse Harem Academy books and Bully Romance, both of which I have no interest in, saturating the RH market, I'm actually enjoying discovering some new non RH series!
April 1, 2019
OMG... 5 STARS ALL FOR AON!
Again a slow start but then it got me in a way i can't describe...
Even without the explicit sex scenes the book is so sexy, the slow burn was just perfect...
Damn you cliffhanger, my question is when will book 3 be published!??
Again a slow start but then it got me in a way i can't describe...
Even without the explicit sex scenes the book is so sexy, the slow burn was just perfect...
Damn you cliffhanger, my question is when will book 3 be published!??
April 1, 2019
Well, naturally, this book picks up where Book 1 ended with a cliffhanger, folks. Again, since this is not an ARC, I simply don’t have the time, thanks to a full literary dance card of ARCs requiring my attention, to dissect and really analysis this second on-going sequel of the Masks of Under series. Just know this one unfolded at a much slower pace, with the heroine getting to know up close and personal the one king everyone else seemed to completely misunderstand. Not that he was as harmless or innocent as a sweet cuddly puppy, people. No, this guy had a dark alpha male side to him, that’s for certain. I was just pleased as punch we were shown a side that gave this creature a heart that was motivated by remorse and redemption. Ultimately, too, a heart that beat with love for this leading lady.
The clear shocker was the cliffhanger ending, even though you were given a big clue what was about to go down. Better brace you anyway, because it was heartbreaking. Good goggly goop, I can’t wait to see what arises out of that HUGE cliffhanger twist. I think a certain someone is going to show them all how the game is truly meant to be played. Yeah, their world is about to be rocked and likely saved at the same time. Here's to hoping we see the tables turned in a very big way.
Title: King of Shadows, Series: Masks of Under (Book 2), Pages: 225, author: Kathryn Ann Kingsley, not a stand-alone, must read books in order, much slower paced than the first book, a few very steamy scenes, HUGE cliffhanger ending, complex cast of characters.
Book 1 - King of Flames (Part 1)
Book 2 - King of Shadows (Part 2)
(These comments are based on a Kindle Unlimited version. This is not a detailed ARC review.)
The clear shocker was the cliffhanger ending, even though you were given a big clue what was about to go down. Better brace you anyway, because it was heartbreaking. Good goggly goop, I can’t wait to see what arises out of that HUGE cliffhanger twist. I think a certain someone is going to show them all how the game is truly meant to be played. Yeah, their world is about to be rocked and likely saved at the same time. Here's to hoping we see the tables turned in a very big way.
Title: King of Shadows, Series: Masks of Under (Book 2), Pages: 225, author: Kathryn Ann Kingsley, not a stand-alone, must read books in order, much slower paced than the first book, a few very steamy scenes, HUGE cliffhanger ending, complex cast of characters.
Book 1 - King of Flames (Part 1)
Book 2 - King of Shadows (Part 2)
(These comments are based on a Kindle Unlimited version. This is not a detailed ARC review.)
June 5, 2019
Writing this review as I'm halfway through the third book, but I am absolutely loving this series. If you love urban fantasy/paranormal romance with a dash of horror, I think these would be right up your alley.
Aon, the lead (anti)hero, is a sadist. He's not a good guy, but...he wants to help fix what he'd broken—which is their world. So that's some good, right? I think so. As Shrek would say, he is like an onion. He has layers. **Snicker** He's a guy that you sympathize with, even while you cringe at the atrocities he commits. But...he loves Lydia. She's perfect for him, and while he delights in darker things (pain), he is careful with her mortal body. Makes me question my morals when I love a guy like Aon. But...I love Kane from Heat by R. Lee Smith, so... **Cough**
My only disappointment with this series is that the love scenes are closed doors. I didn't know that going into this. I do want to say that I found out that the sex scenes were actually written and removed, and can be found and read on her website as bonus content. I just wish she had kept them in as I love to read those more intimate/tender moments that bring the characters closer together. Personal preference, and it in no way took away my enjoyment of this series. There is plenty of sexual tension and steamy kisses.
Anyway! Highly recommended! Amazing world building, beautiful writing, and so much characterization. Kathryn painted a beautiful world full of life and more. I'm hooked.
Aon, the lead (anti)hero, is a sadist. He's not a good guy, but...he wants to help fix what he'd broken—which is their world. So that's some good, right? I think so. As Shrek would say, he is like an onion. He has layers. **Snicker** He's a guy that you sympathize with, even while you cringe at the atrocities he commits. But...he loves Lydia. She's perfect for him, and while he delights in darker things (pain), he is careful with her mortal body. Makes me question my morals when I love a guy like Aon. But...I love Kane from Heat by R. Lee Smith, so... **Cough**
My only disappointment with this series is that the love scenes are closed doors. I didn't know that going into this. I do want to say that I found out that the sex scenes were actually written and removed, and can be found and read on her website as bonus content. I just wish she had kept them in as I love to read those more intimate/tender moments that bring the characters closer together. Personal preference, and it in no way took away my enjoyment of this series. There is plenty of sexual tension and steamy kisses.
Anyway! Highly recommended! Amazing world building, beautiful writing, and so much characterization. Kathryn painted a beautiful world full of life and more. I'm hooked.
July 27, 2019
For those of you that have just grabbed this book... go back get book 3.. your gonna need it!
This story is just so engrossing! I'm completely involved with the characters. This author has splendid talent writing characters that you hate to love but catch yourself doing it anyway. I feel like the flaws exhibited by the characters actually make them more lovable. As the reader you eventually wonder how messed up you are because you are totes falling for the bad guy, or at least that's the way it seems. There is a madness in the story here where you never honestly know where exactly you stand, or where anyone stands, or if they are even standing.
This book starts right where book 1 leaves off. Lydia gets taken by Aon and they come to an agreement. He offers her protection and answers questions about Under and in exchange she willingly helps him with his research in the library. I'm just going to come out and say, Aon and his brutality and his honesty... I'm so gone for his character! He is so honest.. you know he is telling the truth.. and at the same time you can't help but hope he is joking. I loved that we got so much more world building here in book 2. This book did not fall into dreaded middle book syndrome. We got tons of information in book 2 as well as riveting relationship building between multiple different characters.. As fate begins shaping Lydia and Aon's future things go all kinds of awry.. That ending tho.. heart freaking broken!!
Of course I will be starting book 3 asap.. like yesterday.. I can't wait to see how we are gonna pull this out!
This story is just so engrossing! I'm completely involved with the characters. This author has splendid talent writing characters that you hate to love but catch yourself doing it anyway. I feel like the flaws exhibited by the characters actually make them more lovable. As the reader you eventually wonder how messed up you are because you are totes falling for the bad guy, or at least that's the way it seems. There is a madness in the story here where you never honestly know where exactly you stand, or where anyone stands, or if they are even standing.
This book starts right where book 1 leaves off. Lydia gets taken by Aon and they come to an agreement. He offers her protection and answers questions about Under and in exchange she willingly helps him with his research in the library. I'm just going to come out and say, Aon and his brutality and his honesty... I'm so gone for his character! He is so honest.. you know he is telling the truth.. and at the same time you can't help but hope he is joking. I loved that we got so much more world building here in book 2. This book did not fall into dreaded middle book syndrome. We got tons of information in book 2 as well as riveting relationship building between multiple different characters.. As fate begins shaping Lydia and Aon's future things go all kinds of awry.. That ending tho.. heart freaking broken!!
Of course I will be starting book 3 asap.. like yesterday.. I can't wait to see how we are gonna pull this out!
April 9, 2019
This story picked up right where the first one stopped. Lydia is fighting for her life and she has no idea how to defeat Edu but he is out for her and wants her dead. Then she gets help from Aon who saves her minutes before she is to die. Lydia isn't sure why he saved her but she is grateful for him saving her.
Now Lydia is under his protection because she is living with him and he is her protector. The more time she spends with him the more she is beginning to put together the pieces as to why Aon and Edu hate each other. This hatred that they have comes from way back and as Lydia digs she is starting to see that both Aon and Edu have a side to them that she would never have guessed.
What is going to happen to Lydia? Will Aon be able to keep her safe? What does Edu have planned for them all? I need book three like ASAP!
Now Lydia is under his protection because she is living with him and he is her protector. The more time she spends with him the more she is beginning to put together the pieces as to why Aon and Edu hate each other. This hatred that they have comes from way back and as Lydia digs she is starting to see that both Aon and Edu have a side to them that she would never have guessed.
What is going to happen to Lydia? Will Aon be able to keep her safe? What does Edu have planned for them all? I need book three like ASAP!
April 26, 2019
This series is good as shit.
Wow.
Wasn't bored at any part, I adore Lydia, Aon totally stole my heart with his cool-as-shit clawed GAUNTLET HAND BRO!! A gauntlet! We stan! Even harder than in book 1!
That ending, man, that ending.
We are gonna get some bomb-ass PLOT next book bro, May 28th here I come!!
Wow.
Wasn't bored at any part, I adore Lydia, Aon totally stole my heart with his cool-as-shit clawed GAUNTLET HAND BRO!! A gauntlet! We stan! Even harder than in book 1!
That ending, man, that ending.
We are gonna get some bomb-ass PLOT next book bro, May 28th here I come!!
May 14, 2019
Wow, I was not expecting this book to be as good as it was, it sucked me in and I gobbled it up.
Lydia is fast becoming a fav heroine of mine, she has managed to strike a balance between holding her own but not overconfident and stupid.
Looking forward to getting my hands on book 3 especially with how it ended
Lydia is fast becoming a fav heroine of mine, she has managed to strike a balance between holding her own but not overconfident and stupid.
Looking forward to getting my hands on book 3 especially with how it ended
Want to read
June 14, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/14/2019)! 🎁
March 25, 2019
I'm so in love with King Of Shadows. It begins right where King Of Flames end. Lydia is now a "guest" of Aon's. Nothing is as she was told. Everything is different with Aon. He isn't as the others say. He isn't how he projected himself in her dreams.
Lydia is still just as determined as ever to make it home. She's so fierce and brave. She lives with a madman, with the man who makes everyone tremble in fear. Yet things are not as they appear. I'm so freaking happy that I was right about Aon. He's mine ladies, back off! That's all I'll say on him.
I enjoyed King Of Shadows much more than King Of Flames. I understand so much more of the world and the characters. Each person surprised me, some was good surprises others were bad. I'm bouncing in my seat needing the next book. I can't wait to find out what happens now!!!!
Lydia is still just as determined as ever to make it home. She's so fierce and brave. She lives with a madman, with the man who makes everyone tremble in fear. Yet things are not as they appear. I'm so freaking happy that I was right about Aon. He's mine ladies, back off! That's all I'll say on him.
I enjoyed King Of Shadows much more than King Of Flames. I understand so much more of the world and the characters. Each person surprised me, some was good surprises others were bad. I'm bouncing in my seat needing the next book. I can't wait to find out what happens now!!!!
March 26, 2019
As a guest of Aon, Lydia is still trying to piece together the macabre world of Under. She is safe now from King Edu but still cautious.
Aon has an air about him that not only frightens Lydia but also pulls her toward him. He has a reputation of being a sadist and a madman but Lydia sees another side to him as well. A gentleman who has patience with her and her smart mouth. You can feel their emotions and chemistry.
The scene with Otoi was epic!! Loved her human badazz side!
Evil is still lurking in the shadows with his comrades for the perfect opportunity to strike. GASP...Omygosh! My heart!
King of Shadows is definitely my favorite so far in this series! I'm hooked! I would suggest reading the King of Flames first.
I can't wait for the third installment, Queen of Dreams!
Aon has an air about him that not only frightens Lydia but also pulls her toward him. He has a reputation of being a sadist and a madman but Lydia sees another side to him as well. A gentleman who has patience with her and her smart mouth. You can feel their emotions and chemistry.
The scene with Otoi was epic!! Loved her human badazz side!
Evil is still lurking in the shadows with his comrades for the perfect opportunity to strike. GASP...Omygosh! My heart!
King of Shadows is definitely my favorite so far in this series! I'm hooked! I would suggest reading the King of Flames first.
I can't wait for the third installment, Queen of Dreams!
April 1, 2019
This book picks up right where the first book ended, in the heart of the Under. This book is fast-paced from beginning to end and there were so many twists and turns I couldn’t put it down. I HAD to know what happened to Lydia. She is still determined to get home but makes a concession living with Aon the “madman” of the Under. He isn’t like what the others say about him or how he was portrayed in her dreams. I’m just going to say this now, I liked this book better than the first one. I got sucked into the world of the Under more in this book and I didn’t want to leave. I can’t wait for the third installment of the series!!
April 7, 2019
I still stand by what I said in my review for the first book, that they should have been combined into one book. But man this book is really where it gets interesting. I went from thinking "I'll give it a try since I read the first one" to "I need the third book now!". This book really is where the whole story really begins. This first book is important for world building but this is the one where you start to really care about the characters.
May 27, 2019
OMSqueee
OMSquee! Dark and Delicious.... son is a bit of a bully but man oh man, that monster has a heart! This book was all that and a bag of chips... chips that if you eat just one you're craving more... give me the more! Next book please, and oh by the way yeah, you should read it!
OMSquee! Dark and Delicious.... son is a bit of a bully but man oh man, that monster has a heart! This book was all that and a bag of chips... chips that if you eat just one you're craving more... give me the more! Next book please, and oh by the way yeah, you should read it!
June 13, 2020
I am in love with this series! I am going back and throwing this review out there, since I apparently only starred it on my Kindle App. 3 books in with the 4th set to drop any day and the series just keeps getting better! If you like Urban Fantasy, especially the twisty, shake your mind and tempt your heart kind - then you NEED to read The Masks of Under.
December 15, 2019
The madness continues, and if anything gets even more crazy!
PS- Me personally, I want to read all of the goriness- but I also want to read the sex scenes. We keep getting the build up but not the deets!
PS- Me personally, I want to read all of the goriness- but I also want to read the sex scenes. We keep getting the build up but not the deets!
April 8, 2019
Sooo good. Read both really fast! Can't wait bring on the next one!
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