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The Masks of Under #4
King of Blood
The kings and queens of Under have returned…
My magic has woken the most dangerous beings in Under’s history. As they take back their thrones, the rivalries between them could drag us all into war.
Aon tried to prepare me for this moment, by unleashing the powers inside me and teaching me to fight.
But his methods were more vicious than I could ever imagine. The passion between us still burns bright. But I can never forgive the way he sacrificed my friend without hesitation or remorse.
Now, as a deadly struggle begins, my relationship with Aon is utterly broken. I stand alone… and unprotected.
But I am no longer a helpless mortal, facing down enemies with unimaginable power. I am one of them—the Queen of Dreams.
To save my life and heal this world, I must make deadly new allies. But will my bond with Aon—and the love I can no longer deny—turn all of Under against me?
I just need to determine whether he’s an ally…or the worst enemy Under has ever seen.
My magic has woken the most dangerous beings in Under’s history. As they take back their thrones, the rivalries between them could drag us all into war.
Aon tried to prepare me for this moment, by unleashing the powers inside me and teaching me to fight.
But his methods were more vicious than I could ever imagine. The passion between us still burns bright. But I can never forgive the way he sacrificed my friend without hesitation or remorse.
Now, as a deadly struggle begins, my relationship with Aon is utterly broken. I stand alone… and unprotected.
But I am no longer a helpless mortal, facing down enemies with unimaginable power. I am one of them—the Queen of Dreams.
To save my life and heal this world, I must make deadly new allies. But will my bond with Aon—and the love I can no longer deny—turn all of Under against me?
I just need to determine whether he’s an ally…or the worst enemy Under has ever seen.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 18, 2019
431 people are currently reading
566 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Ann Kingsley
66 books2,453 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 120 reviews
June 13, 2019
4.5 StarsBook four of a six book series and I am still really enjoying this story. I'll keep this short and sweet as I have already reviewed the three previous books and don't want to sound like a broken record. The writing, pace, and plot all remain top notch. Edu got his head out of his ass (finally). The prophecy we've heard so much about comes to pass in a twist. Part of which I had already guessed, but part of which broke my heart.
All the Kings and Queens have arisen. Lydia remains a strong heroine. Aon a sexy sadist you can't help but love. SIDE NOTE: I still think these books would have been that much better with sex scenes...grumble. (lol) I'll also admit that I find myself a little frustrated with the one step forward...five steps back pace of Lydia and Aon's relationship. I get it, there are six books and we can't have them happily ever after at the end of book one. But for a reader (at least this one) it gets a bit...I don't know...frustrating? Tiresome? Repetitive?? How many times is something going to separate them when they JUST got back together?? However, that goes with the territory when you have six books dedicated to the same couple's story. Last, we again end on a crazy cliffhanger and I will sit
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.
So with King of Blood book 4 in this series, we are back where we left off previously. Can Lydia find it within to forgive Aon for his past crimes, committed despite his nature ultimately to protect her?
So when Lyd in true bad-ass style forces Aon's hand and outplays the master laying all his vulnerabilities bare in front of an unwanted audience my heart kind of broke slightly. This end game also forces Lydia herself into choosing one or the other hence the attitude from her corner.
Well played warlock I salute your devious nature even if it slightly backfired.
We also get to see Aon's madness erupt so violently and also unexpectantly when he kinda loses it not believing anyone person least of all the woman he adores could feel anything remotely real and true for him. My heart really did hurt at that moment it was just so tragically sad. For such a self-possessed individual he lacks the confidence in his own allure to retain her affection for him he also doesn't believe he is worthy of such a prize as she. We also did get to experience a much more loving and playful side of Aon which I especially appreciated.
Q; I adore that hilarious sidekick he has all the best one-liners and I love everything about him including his interactions with Aon, so funny. More kings and Queens are added to the overall mix agitating the pot and that ending was just so explosive. The two reveals regarding the prophecy I did actually guess though I wasn't expecting it to go down quite the way it did. Despite guessing It didn't take away my enjoyment, I'm still fully onboard and invested. Love this series and can't wait for the next instalment after that cliffhanger ending.
An observation and it is only an opinion: but I do think this would be even better with all the X-rated stuff included, Aon and Lydia have such chemistry and I do so love me a sadist. I also know I can read it on the author's website and I most definitely do indulge myself there but it would be so much better if included. This series and Under have such a dark vibe that It really doesn't seem like it would be out of place. Despite that, I am still hard-core fangirling this series it is fantastic and one I highly recommend. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of King of Blood (The Masks of Under #4).
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.
So with King of Blood book 4 in this series, we are back where we left off previously. Can Lydia find it within to forgive Aon for his past crimes, committed despite his nature ultimately to protect her?
So when Lyd in true bad-ass style forces Aon's hand and outplays the master laying all his vulnerabilities bare in front of an unwanted audience my heart kind of broke slightly. This end game also forces Lydia herself into choosing one or the other hence the attitude from her corner.
Well played warlock I salute your devious nature even if it slightly backfired.
We also get to see Aon's madness erupt so violently and also unexpectantly when he kinda loses it not believing anyone person least of all the woman he adores could feel anything remotely real and true for him. My heart really did hurt at that moment it was just so tragically sad. For such a self-possessed individual he lacks the confidence in his own allure to retain her affection for him he also doesn't believe he is worthy of such a prize as she. We also did get to experience a much more loving and playful side of Aon which I especially appreciated.
Q; I adore that hilarious sidekick he has all the best one-liners and I love everything about him including his interactions with Aon, so funny. More kings and Queens are added to the overall mix agitating the pot and that ending was just so explosive. The two reveals regarding the prophecy I did actually guess though I wasn't expecting it to go down quite the way it did. Despite guessing It didn't take away my enjoyment, I'm still fully onboard and invested. Love this series and can't wait for the next instalment after that cliffhanger ending.
An observation and it is only an opinion: but I do think this would be even better with all the X-rated stuff included, Aon and Lydia have such chemistry and I do so love me a sadist. I also know I can read it on the author's website and I most definitely do indulge myself there but it would be so much better if included. This series and Under have such a dark vibe that It really doesn't seem like it would be out of place. Despite that, I am still hard-core fangirling this series it is fantastic and one I highly recommend. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of King of Blood (The Masks of Under #4).
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
June 18, 2019
My expectations are high after all the prophecy said...
..that a king would rise to destroy me, and a friend would be my undoing.
Is Rxa that king?
If so who’s the friend?... Evie?
Those were my thoughts before I started reading. I won’t tell you if I was right or wrong.
I’ll admit my expectations were high going into this and it did not disappoint.
Lydia’s life since arriving on Under has not been easy. And it’s about to become worse.
She’s now the Queen of Dreams. And she can now admit she’s in love with Aon. Despite the fact that she might not like him very much.
With Under now safe the slumbering kings and queens are rising. But is the threat over?
I’m not making this a spoiler review. I’ll just say this was the book I wanted and now I can’t wait for the next book.
This is firmly aimed at the YA market and that’s fine. Personally I felt it would have benefitted from some hot and heavy Lydia and Aon scenes. But I understand that would greatly reduce its market. Either way this is turning out to be an addictive series.
..that a king would rise to destroy me, and a friend would be my undoing.
Is Rxa that king?
If so who’s the friend?... Evie?
Those were my thoughts before I started reading. I won’t tell you if I was right or wrong.
I’ll admit my expectations were high going into this and it did not disappoint.
Lydia’s life since arriving on Under has not been easy. And it’s about to become worse.
She’s now the Queen of Dreams. And she can now admit she’s in love with Aon. Despite the fact that she might not like him very much.
With Under now safe the slumbering kings and queens are rising. But is the threat over?
I’m not making this a spoiler review. I’ll just say this was the book I wanted and now I can’t wait for the next book.
This is firmly aimed at the YA market and that’s fine. Personally I felt it would have benefitted from some hot and heavy Lydia and Aon scenes. But I understand that would greatly reduce its market. Either way this is turning out to be an addictive series.
November 29, 2020
4.25 Stars
If Lydia can stop giving speeches of how she didn't want or never planned to be Queen of Dreams, that would be great🙃
If Lydia can stop giving speeches of how she didn't want or never planned to be Queen of Dreams, that would be great🙃
June 30, 2019
This book has been out for a week and I am only just reading it. This is odd for me because I loved the first two and pre-ordered the third because of how the first two delivered. Unfortunately the third book was mediocre, didn't enjoy it at all. Luckily this certainly upped the ante. I was not expecting it to end this way and I can't wait to see what happens next.
June 21, 2019
Fuck.
Yup, that's my review.
June 24, 2019
Just wow.
This really is one of the best series I have binge read this year.
The world building is so vast and original and even four books in I feel we have so much to learn.
It was so much fun meeting the other Kings and Queens from Under as they awoke. They are all so vivd and with their own quirks and personalities.
The characterisation is top notch across the characters. This is one of the most important things for me in a book: that the characters are believable and well drawn, with a clear character arc. I'm not saying I'm always happy with where the characters end up (this series just keeps damn near breaking my heart, only to repair it, only to break it again) but never once is it not believable.
Aon and Lydia have become one of my favourite book couples. They are so fantastic tother and the relationship has gone on such a journey and I just believe in it. Aon's characterisation is masterfully done, as you just love the guys, despite the way he is.
This books ends with pretty much everything going to shit and I can't wait to see how it all goes down. The first chapter preview of the jetx book broke my heart again, but I have faith for a HEA!
So glad I don't have such a huge wait for the next one. Highly recommend this series!
This really is one of the best series I have binge read this year.
The world building is so vast and original and even four books in I feel we have so much to learn.
It was so much fun meeting the other Kings and Queens from Under as they awoke. They are all so vivd and with their own quirks and personalities.
The characterisation is top notch across the characters. This is one of the most important things for me in a book: that the characters are believable and well drawn, with a clear character arc. I'm not saying I'm always happy with where the characters end up (this series just keeps damn near breaking my heart, only to repair it, only to break it again) but never once is it not believable.
Aon and Lydia have become one of my favourite book couples. They are so fantastic tother and the relationship has gone on such a journey and I just believe in it. Aon's characterisation is masterfully done, as you just love the guys, despite the way he is.
This books ends with pretty much everything going to shit and I can't wait to see how it all goes down. The first chapter preview of the jetx book broke my heart again, but I have faith for a HEA!
So glad I don't have such a huge wait for the next one. Highly recommend this series!
July 3, 2019
What just happened? I'm going crazy. I'm dying over here! I have one week to go before the next book comes out.
Kathryn Ann Kingsley blindsided me! Punched me in the gut and left me breathless. This was the best book of the series. I have to go back and read the last few chapters again. It's that good. Maybe this time I won't scream.
July 22, 2019
Still trying to decide if she can forgive Aon for killing Nick, Lydia is faced with a new challenge as the other kings and queens of Under begin to awaken, and not all of them are welcoming. Even though she has restored balance to their world, it seems someone is still willing to risk their destruction by harming Lydia.
I'm enjoying this series very much. I love Aon. I just want to squeeze him and give him the love he has been so desperate to feel for thousands of years. Lydia is well suited to his character and I'm hooked on finding out how their relationship develops. The ending of this book shakes things up a bit, so it should be interesting to see where the author decides to take us next. I can't wait to find out.
I'm enjoying this series very much. I love Aon. I just want to squeeze him and give him the love he has been so desperate to feel for thousands of years. Lydia is well suited to his character and I'm hooked on finding out how their relationship develops. The ending of this book shakes things up a bit, so it should be interesting to see where the author decides to take us next. I can't wait to find out.
July 28, 2019
4.5 stars
August 1, 2019
I love this series. One of the best series I have read this year. This author.. this story.. I fell like I'm caught in a web, there is no escape. I'm not sure how this author manages to keep my OCD at bay but despite not knowing every little detail.. I'm so caught up in the tale, that I am just cruising along enjoying the ride. The prophecy ya'll.. the prophecy wrecked me.
As far as action packed this book was mild for the most part.. until you know things happened.. I'm desperately trying not to let anything slip. Lydia is just starting to embrace her role as Edu realizes he has been mistaken thinking she isn't her own person. Lydia out smarts Aon and gets his truths only to become even more entangled in him as the story progresses. She sees his madness and still loves him. The kings and Queens are awakening all over now and what characters they are! This author has a gift for writing characters with different, flamboyant, breath taking personalities. I can't wait for you guys to meet our new crew. All of this.. and Aon and Lydia grow even closer.. but Aon knows the ball will drop at any time.. And then it does.. and it not only drops but causes a meteor shower of apocalyptic proportions!
This ending.. I'm so broken by it and at the same time hella excited to be moving forward.. Come on Book 5.. "Run and let me catch you "... *shivers deliciously..*
As far as action packed this book was mild for the most part.. until you know things happened.. I'm desperately trying not to let anything slip. Lydia is just starting to embrace her role as Edu realizes he has been mistaken thinking she isn't her own person. Lydia out smarts Aon and gets his truths only to become even more entangled in him as the story progresses. She sees his madness and still loves him. The kings and Queens are awakening all over now and what characters they are! This author has a gift for writing characters with different, flamboyant, breath taking personalities. I can't wait for you guys to meet our new crew. All of this.. and Aon and Lydia grow even closer.. but Aon knows the ball will drop at any time.. And then it does.. and it not only drops but causes a meteor shower of apocalyptic proportions!
This ending.. I'm so broken by it and at the same time hella excited to be moving forward.. Come on Book 5.. "Run and let me catch you "... *shivers deliciously..*
August 12, 2020
Wowed! Okay.. well again holding off my opinion until the last book of this series.. but damn things are getting deep...whew!
Okay off to book 5..
Overall rating:
4* ~ A Good Read
Okay off to book 5..
Overall rating:
4* ~ A Good Read
January 11, 2022
To tell the truth, I wasn’t a big fan of how this one ended. It all felt incredibly rushed and not properly planned out. The “baddie” felt incredibly underwhelming, all that was going through my head was “???what???”. Because of this, all his actions and what occurred because of them also felt lame.
That being said, I still like this series, I’m still incredibly interested in seeing where it goes, I’m just a tad disappointed in how this one turned out.
Also, side note but in my previous reviews I hadn’t yet mentioned my love for Lyon so I thought it best to do so now. I love this man, he’s perfect, I’m glad we saw quite a bit of him in this one, he is my king, ily bby kiss kiss
That being said, I still like this series, I’m still incredibly interested in seeing where it goes, I’m just a tad disappointed in how this one turned out.
Also, side note but in my previous reviews I hadn’t yet mentioned my love for Lyon so I thought it best to do so now. I love this man, he’s perfect, I’m glad we saw quite a bit of him in this one, he is my king, ily bby kiss kiss
June 22, 2019
I’ve reviewed the other books but I will say that this one is so far my favorite!!! The original story line is captivating from the very beginning. I love Lydia’s fiery spirit, the development of the characters. Hello Edu?! And the twists at the end! Oh my. Didn’t see it coming and I love every second of it. READ THIS BOOK!!!
December 15, 2019
3.75
Damn the Ancients! Can poor Lydia get a damned break??
Damn the Ancients! Can poor Lydia get a damned break??
December 21, 2020
Let me start by saying that, yes I still love Kingsy's books and yes im still enjoying this series. However, this book was so...slow. Almost agonizingly so, to the point I found myself skimming through some of the dialogue (yup new characters, no i don't care about their intentions) The ending (the last 15% or so) made it worth it though. I bought the entire series up front, so of course I'm going to read the next book but a part of me just wants to cut it out and go to the last (not doing it though). The writing is good, i love it, even if it seems I don't. Part of me feels that maybe I've just burnt myself out trying to read all the books Kingsley writes in one go, but I also feel that nothing is going to hold a candle to her Harrow Fair series. I feel like that series is just a better more well written version of this one to be honest. I personally feel that I could have done without much of what happens in this book and we could have condensed it with one of the others easily, but whatever. I'm along for the ride and interested to see where the next two books are going to take us.
June 21, 2019
Slower than the others in the series, but still good
Things I really liked- this series is so unique and there is no end to this authors imagination. I really liked seeing the creativity and interaction of the characters. This unique world in itself has not been disappointing.
Things that frustrated me- There was a TON of talking and very little action. I was becoming frankly a little bored with the introduction of more and more characters. I would have liked to see more growth with Lydia. The ending also left the book feeling incomplete/ I wasn’t entirely thrilled with the main antagonists reasonings (of this book not the overarching evil). I just felt it lacked real motivation for the character to do what it did- I honestly was eye rolling a little bit.
With all this being said the first two books in this series were definite five stars for me and though this book kind of slumped I am really looking forward to finishing the series.
Things I really liked- this series is so unique and there is no end to this authors imagination. I really liked seeing the creativity and interaction of the characters. This unique world in itself has not been disappointing.
Things that frustrated me- There was a TON of talking and very little action. I was becoming frankly a little bored with the introduction of more and more characters. I would have liked to see more growth with Lydia. The ending also left the book feeling incomplete/ I wasn’t entirely thrilled with the main antagonists reasonings (of this book not the overarching evil). I just felt it lacked real motivation for the character to do what it did- I honestly was eye rolling a little bit.
With all this being said the first two books in this series were definite five stars for me and though this book kind of slumped I am really looking forward to finishing the series.
June 10, 2019
If you haven’t read the first three books of this series, well, you’ll need to get right on that, folks. Otherwise, you will completely be lost here. There is a whole lot of history of past events that have unfolded up to this point and another jaw dropping big reveal that leads to a major cliffhanger ending in book 4, King of Blood. The tide and tables get turned in a whole new way that will put this main couple’s newly declared love to the ultimate test.
With at least four new characters added to the mix in this book alone, Lydia, the heroine, is still struggling to figure out who is friend or foe. Then just when she thinks she’s finally got a handle on it, the cards get shuffled again. You see, she may have found herself at the top of the heap in this strange new world, but there always seems to be someone ready to knock her right off it and put her under in the land of Under.
Aon continues to be the protective dark knight we never expected. You have to admit there is something extremely hot about a leading man ready to burn his world to the ground when his love for his woman is at stake.
A big portion of this storyline still has these two circling around each other as Lydia tries to come to terms with what he has done and what she needs to do next. If it wasn’t enough saving Under from itself, she’s now got another life changing decision to make.
Lydia isn’t one to back down from a challenge or fight though. She and her trusty snake sidekick Q will figure out what to do, even if it kills her. She’s proven before she’ll sacrifice herself if that’s what it takes. A cat and very clever mouse game is likely going to ensue very soon, all while the magical world of Under tries to rise above the chaos and havoc that has just been unleashed upon them. I, for one, can’t wait to find out what happens next!
Title: King of Blood, Series: The Masks of Under (Book 4), Author: Kathryn Ann Kingsley, Pages: 225, not a stand-alone, must read books in order, paranormal, alpha protective avenger type hero, tough/sassy/caught in the crosshairs heroine, some graph violence/death, unexpected cliffhanger twist, to be continued, available on Kindle Unlimited.
Book 1 - King of Flames
Book 2 - King of Shadows
Book 3 - Queen of Dreams
Book 4 - King of Blood
(Two more books to come!)
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review. There is no affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/PR firm.)
With at least four new characters added to the mix in this book alone, Lydia, the heroine, is still struggling to figure out who is friend or foe. Then just when she thinks she’s finally got a handle on it, the cards get shuffled again. You see, she may have found herself at the top of the heap in this strange new world, but there always seems to be someone ready to knock her right off it and put her under in the land of Under.
Aon continues to be the protective dark knight we never expected. You have to admit there is something extremely hot about a leading man ready to burn his world to the ground when his love for his woman is at stake.
A big portion of this storyline still has these two circling around each other as Lydia tries to come to terms with what he has done and what she needs to do next. If it wasn’t enough saving Under from itself, she’s now got another life changing decision to make.
Lydia isn’t one to back down from a challenge or fight though. She and her trusty snake sidekick Q will figure out what to do, even if it kills her. She’s proven before she’ll sacrifice herself if that’s what it takes. A cat and very clever mouse game is likely going to ensue very soon, all while the magical world of Under tries to rise above the chaos and havoc that has just been unleashed upon them. I, for one, can’t wait to find out what happens next!
Title: King of Blood, Series: The Masks of Under (Book 4), Author: Kathryn Ann Kingsley, Pages: 225, not a stand-alone, must read books in order, paranormal, alpha protective avenger type hero, tough/sassy/caught in the crosshairs heroine, some graph violence/death, unexpected cliffhanger twist, to be continued, available on Kindle Unlimited.
Book 1 - King of Flames
Book 2 - King of Shadows
Book 3 - Queen of Dreams
Book 4 - King of Blood
(Two more books to come!)
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review. There is no affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/PR firm.)
June 17, 2019
I can't - my heart can't take anymore.
"We are far more than the stories that are told of us, my beautiful sister. I cannot wait to see what stories they tell of you. "- Ini
Lydia is beginning to settle? Into her role as Queen of Dreams. No, her world isn't getting any less dangerous just more expected?
As the void slowly recedes and Under becomes the world it once was new threats come to existence and lines are clearly drawn between friend and foe. Well, maybe not so clearly. Lydia's casual approach at life (or death in this case) makes sense. She can't change what is and despite events that, at first glance, seem like senseless violence Lydia sees beyond the black and white. The perpetrator believed what they were doing was for a greater purpose. How can she condemn someone for acting on what they believed served the greater good of all?
"Into the darkness of my mind, my soul, I stare. Nothing shall gather within the shadows. In the twisting nettles, the briars, the thorns. I feel the pain that makes me whole. Balm not the biting sands that sting my flesh, for in that sorrow is my joy. "- Aon
This passage holds so much meaning.
Aon has suffered so much loss. He has always been the black sheep, the feared and unwanted. And now we see it may have been for valid reasons.
He portrays himself as cold, cruel, and untouchable yet for his
Lydia, he will remove his mask
He will sacrifice the world to protect her.
'That through all the fear and the horror, you would not succumb to hopelessness in the face of death and suffering. "-Aon
If only he knew how true his words would become.
The king of blood. So beautiful. So righteous. He is the keeper of the peace. The final words of wisdom. He has the power to bring unity to Under or to destroy all that he perceives as warped. He holds the chains of the ancients.
I'm not risking spoilers.
I will say this may be the most intense and suspenseful episode yet.
Emotionally this was the hardest one for me.
I cried those heart wrenching silent tears. I screamed "please no!" countless times. Held my breath praying the worst would not come to pass.
As I write these words my heart still lies shattered at my feet. Broken and battered.
If you risk one new author
Try one new series
Let it be this one
Do not pass this series up!
"We are far more than the stories that are told of us, my beautiful sister. I cannot wait to see what stories they tell of you. "- Ini
Lydia is beginning to settle? Into her role as Queen of Dreams. No, her world isn't getting any less dangerous just more expected?
As the void slowly recedes and Under becomes the world it once was new threats come to existence and lines are clearly drawn between friend and foe. Well, maybe not so clearly. Lydia's casual approach at life (or death in this case) makes sense. She can't change what is and despite events that, at first glance, seem like senseless violence Lydia sees beyond the black and white. The perpetrator believed what they were doing was for a greater purpose. How can she condemn someone for acting on what they believed served the greater good of all?
"Into the darkness of my mind, my soul, I stare. Nothing shall gather within the shadows. In the twisting nettles, the briars, the thorns. I feel the pain that makes me whole. Balm not the biting sands that sting my flesh, for in that sorrow is my joy. "- Aon
This passage holds so much meaning.
Aon has suffered so much loss. He has always been the black sheep, the feared and unwanted. And now we see it may have been for valid reasons.
He portrays himself as cold, cruel, and untouchable yet for his
Lydia, he will remove his mask
He will sacrifice the world to protect her.
'That through all the fear and the horror, you would not succumb to hopelessness in the face of death and suffering. "-Aon
If only he knew how true his words would become.
The king of blood. So beautiful. So righteous. He is the keeper of the peace. The final words of wisdom. He has the power to bring unity to Under or to destroy all that he perceives as warped. He holds the chains of the ancients.
I'm not risking spoilers.
I will say this may be the most intense and suspenseful episode yet.
Emotionally this was the hardest one for me.
I cried those heart wrenching silent tears. I screamed "please no!" countless times. Held my breath praying the worst would not come to pass.
As I write these words my heart still lies shattered at my feet. Broken and battered.
If you risk one new author
Try one new series
Let it be this one
Do not pass this series up!
June 20, 2019
King of Blood is the 4th book in the continuing series of The Masks of Under, so I just want to say from the get go that YOU MUST READ BOOKS 1-3 FIRST & IN ORDER! If you don't, you will have absolutely NO CLUE as to what is going on. See, Kathryn Ann Kingsley is a diabolical genius, and her twists are layered upon more twists, so I actually do nothing more than drop f-bombs when it comes to experiencing the story. At the end of each book, that's when I step out of my f-bomb dropping box, and call her colorful metaphors because she's constantly leaving me on the side of a cliff dangling in the wind with some questions answered, but 10 more asked for each one answered. And this is why I'm not giving any sort of description in my own words, because frankly, I'm not down with spoilers even if they're by accident, so I'm paranoid as all hell that I'll give some away if I try. I do know that there are more characters introduced, so I'm more suspicious, because I rested on my laurels and got burned badly. I can say this, expect the unexpected, because anytime I believe Ms. Kingsley will zig, she completely zags so I'm throwing my hands up in surrender, and just dying inside waiting for all the books to be released so I'm finally in the know. I'm 100% addicted to this series that I NEVER saw coming, and HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
June 11, 2019
When will Lydia and Aon's suffering be enough? These two have been through hell. Aon's was of his own making, but with heartbreaking reasons. Lydia's is due to being a puppet to the Ancients. Kathryn Ann Kingsley blew everything we thought we knew from us. I have no idea where this is going, though I have a small inkling.
Kathryn Ann Kingsley's writing makes it feel as if you are there in Under suffering the fate that Lydia and the rest are. I couldn't be dragged away from this book for a second! Each character evolves throughout each book, making the ones you hated before to the ones you understand and like now. The unknown, not necessarily secrets but basically the unknown destiny, that was revealed blew my mind. One must never forget prophecy.
I was blown away and NEED MORE! I have to know what's in store for Lydia and Aon plus all those in Under. I have to know. I'm on the edge of my seat ready to dive right back into this fecked up yet magical world of Under.
Be prepared for heartbreak, love, hope, and betrayal.
Kathryn Ann Kingsley's writing makes it feel as if you are there in Under suffering the fate that Lydia and the rest are. I couldn't be dragged away from this book for a second! Each character evolves throughout each book, making the ones you hated before to the ones you understand and like now. The unknown, not necessarily secrets but basically the unknown destiny, that was revealed blew my mind. One must never forget prophecy.
I was blown away and NEED MORE! I have to know what's in store for Lydia and Aon plus all those in Under. I have to know. I'm on the edge of my seat ready to dive right back into this fecked up yet magical world of Under.
Be prepared for heartbreak, love, hope, and betrayal.
June 18, 2019
5 stars
I really can't remember the last time I was so damn happy and obsessed with a series. Maybe the first time I started reading ,some 7 or 8 years ago, and I began discovering everything.
Seriously. These books. It's like the author had the recipe to my favorite book ever and started this series.
Lydia is so awesome I can't even. Q is the best sidekick ever. And all other wicked book boyfriends will forever pale compared to Aon.
In this book we get to meet the other Kings and Queens of Under and each of them was so odd and extraordinary. The author's imagination is damn impressive.
I never know what to expect from these books. One minute I'm laughing my ass off and the next I'm gripping my Kindle in dismay.
My only complaint is that I want them to be longer, damn it .
And now I wait again for the next one. *shouts in frustration*
I really can't remember the last time I was so damn happy and obsessed with a series. Maybe the first time I started reading ,some 7 or 8 years ago, and I began discovering everything.
Seriously. These books. It's like the author had the recipe to my favorite book ever and started this series.
Lydia is so awesome I can't even. Q is the best sidekick ever. And all other wicked book boyfriends will forever pale compared to Aon.
In this book we get to meet the other Kings and Queens of Under and each of them was so odd and extraordinary. The author's imagination is damn impressive.
I never know what to expect from these books. One minute I'm laughing my ass off and the next I'm gripping my Kindle in dismay.
My only complaint is that I want them to be longer, damn it .
And now I wait again for the next one. *shouts in frustration*
June 23, 2019
Incredible fourth installement. Many twists and many turns as usual.
To be honest [spoiler]
this book was way too happy go lucky for a mid way of a series book. So even though everyone was enjoying themselves in the book-at least as much as they can in Under- I had a foreboding feeling through out all the book.
BUT this is an amazing continuation to the series and an ending for the book I was not expecting at all and a twist I didn't even think about.
I mean I knew who the villain was going to be, the king to rise and who the friend who would be the downfall was, but I wasn't counting how much of a downfall for all of Under is going to be.
Can't wait for the next book. Really excited with this series.
To be honest [spoiler]
this book was way too happy go lucky for a mid way of a series book. So even though everyone was enjoying themselves in the book-at least as much as they can in Under- I had a foreboding feeling through out all the book.
BUT this is an amazing continuation to the series and an ending for the book I was not expecting at all and a twist I didn't even think about.
I mean I knew who the villain was going to be, the king to rise and who the friend who would be the downfall was, but I wasn't counting how much of a downfall for all of Under is going to be.
Can't wait for the next book. Really excited with this series.
July 12, 2019
1. I am a HUGE FAN of this story, it's delicious and complex as well as cleverly written. (Initially Book 1 had me struggling a bit with all the information and characters but I am glad I continued and read the next book and the next....)
2. The writing is ... I can't explain it. This series should just be read. This part of one line "...but for that she had drawn flame from the spent candle that was his soul.''Completely touched all my feels and I was bowled over.
3. I love how Aon loves Lydia, it's almost pure. I had read another review that said Aon's love was almost obsessive and I can see that but there is a reason why and it transcends the obsessive nature of it.
4. That scene with the Ancients finally speaking to Lydia, so damn clever, I cant wait to read Book 5!!
2. The writing is ... I can't explain it. This series should just be read. This part of one line "...but for that she had drawn flame from the spent candle that was his soul.''Completely touched all my feels and I was bowled over.
3. I love how Aon loves Lydia, it's almost pure. I had read another review that said Aon's love was almost obsessive and I can see that but there is a reason why and it transcends the obsessive nature of it.
4. That scene with the Ancients finally speaking to Lydia, so damn clever, I cant wait to read Book 5!!
June 17, 2019
Ok I will admit I worried I would not like this series but was interested in the blurb , now I will admit after the first book I was hooked and each of the books so far have pulled me in just as fast as the first one did.
The King of Blood is awake and now Lydia and the rest have to see if he will be after blood of everyone or an ally , this is the 4th book of 6 and we learn more about how strong Lydia really is even after all she has gone through and is going through.
The other kinds and queens need to learn from her and pull their heads out of their bottoms .
Please let the next one come out soon because I already need my next read of the Under
The King of Blood is awake and now Lydia and the rest have to see if he will be after blood of everyone or an ally , this is the 4th book of 6 and we learn more about how strong Lydia really is even after all she has gone through and is going through.
The other kinds and queens need to learn from her and pull their heads out of their bottoms .
Please let the next one come out soon because I already need my next read of the Under
June 20, 2019
Now this is more like it!
Book 4 is well structured and answers some of those nagging questions that I felt Book 3 muddled through. As the relationship between Lydia and Aon grows deeper so do the tests and trials they have to endure.
King of Blood satisfied my curiosity about the rest of the royalty in Under and the twist at the end was not what I expected! No spoilers in this review but seriously persevere and read Book 4 this series does not disappoint!
Book 4 is well structured and answers some of those nagging questions that I felt Book 3 muddled through. As the relationship between Lydia and Aon grows deeper so do the tests and trials they have to endure.
King of Blood satisfied my curiosity about the rest of the royalty in Under and the twist at the end was not what I expected! No spoilers in this review but seriously persevere and read Book 4 this series does not disappoint!
June 23, 2019
Absolutely bloodly phenomenal. I have no idea how i stumbled upon this book but this top notch writing has completely slayed me. I've binged the whole series and its fantastic.
No spoilers but my ideas about the king and the friend were wrong! Normally books are pretty predictable but this just threw me off course.. mainly who the friend was!
Aon, he is my love. Twisted and dark. Oh, I just can't get over him. Lydia is the freaking best. Doesn't take shit and keeps rolling with the punches. Definitely pick this book up as you won't regret it!
I wish there were a few steamy scenes between Aon and Lydia, and that is my only complaint 😁😁
No spoilers but my ideas about the king and the friend were wrong! Normally books are pretty predictable but this just threw me off course.. mainly who the friend was!
Aon, he is my love. Twisted and dark. Oh, I just can't get over him. Lydia is the freaking best. Doesn't take shit and keeps rolling with the punches. Definitely pick this book up as you won't regret it!
I wish there were a few steamy scenes between Aon and Lydia, and that is my only complaint 😁😁
June 25, 2019
What an amazing series. I have finished all 4 books in a matter of days. It would have been less if it werent for my job and the need to sleep. This is an excitinf series that keepa you on the edge of your seat. I wasnt sure I would enjoy it, but I am!! I cannot wait for the rest of the series and am excited to just found out that they are being released a recors speeds!
If you like a fantasy story with a world parallel to ours with a truly cruel and lovely romance, this is a story you will enjoy.
If you like a fantasy story with a world parallel to ours with a truly cruel and lovely romance, this is a story you will enjoy.
July 8, 2019
Gearing up for an epic ending
Wow so much is going on in this fourth installment, I don't even know where to start! All the kings and queens wake in this book! Lydia is learning her way through being a queen, aon is learning humility, edu is learning calm and forgiveness, everyone else is seeing facets of aon they did not realize he had such as why he did all the things he has done.
The story arc has really started showing itself and I'm loving it; each book before have been lead ups so that we may fully understand this world and those that inhabit it. Each book in its own right has been interesting but as a whole, well for a lack of a better term, it's gearing up to something huge! Aon!
Wow so much is going on in this fourth installment, I don't even know where to start! All the kings and queens wake in this book! Lydia is learning her way through being a queen, aon is learning humility, edu is learning calm and forgiveness, everyone else is seeing facets of aon they did not realize he had such as why he did all the things he has done.
The story arc has really started showing itself and I'm loving it; each book before have been lead ups so that we may fully understand this world and those that inhabit it. Each book in its own right has been interesting but as a whole, well for a lack of a better term, it's gearing up to something huge! Aon!
June 18, 2019
Cannot wait for the next book....
I seemed to have tumbled down into this new and original exciting world and it is only getting better. What a rollercoaster of a book when you literally cannot predict what is coming at each turn of the page. I am very surprised and gratefully enthralled with this series. Great 4th book...can't wait for the next one (seriously I can't wait).
I seemed to have tumbled down into this new and original exciting world and it is only getting better. What a rollercoaster of a book when you literally cannot predict what is coming at each turn of the page. I am very surprised and gratefully enthralled with this series. Great 4th book...can't wait for the next one (seriously I can't wait).
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