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The Masks of Under #5
King of None
The Ancients are free, and all bets are off.
With the rise of the primordial creators of Under everything has changed. Our world is no longer the same, and neither is Aon.
I learned his dark secret the moment the sun peeked over the horizon for the first time in thousands of years. Every king and queen in Under used to be human—even Edu. But not Aon. He’s the only soul ever made by the Ancients, their firstborn and only son.
Now that they’ve been set free, he has no choice but to obey his makers and do what he has been created to do. Rule.
Aon, the King of Shadows, was a madman and a warlock. But he no longer exists. In his place is someone—something—far worse.
The King of All.
With the rise of the primordial creators of Under everything has changed. Our world is no longer the same, and neither is Aon.
I learned his dark secret the moment the sun peeked over the horizon for the first time in thousands of years. Every king and queen in Under used to be human—even Edu. But not Aon. He’s the only soul ever made by the Ancients, their firstborn and only son.
Now that they’ve been set free, he has no choice but to obey his makers and do what he has been created to do. Rule.
Aon, the King of Shadows, was a madman and a warlock. But he no longer exists. In his place is someone—something—far worse.
The King of All.
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 26, 2019
344 people are currently reading
490 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Ann Kingsley
66 books2,451 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 99 reviews
July 8, 2019
I just got back from a weeklong vacation and I am still in catch-up mode, so this review will be neither long nor overly detailed. 😄 Needless to say, I am still very much enjoying this series. However, this was probably my least favorite book so far. 🙈 Chalk it up to me being frustrated with the back-and-forth pace of Aon and Lydia's relationship. Chalk it up to me not loving certain events that took place in this book. 💔 Chalk it up to me not being a fan of one couple's story being dragged out over so many books. 🔚 Chalk it up to me finding Lydia and her "I don't know how I feel" attitude annoying. 😒 Just little things here and there made it less enjoyable for me.
That said, I adored Edu in this book. 💕 We thankfully get limited Kamira (who annoyed me SO much in the previous book). 🎉 The writing, plot, character development, all remain top notch.👍So yea, I am still enjoying the series overall, but I will admit I am happy that the next book is the last. 🔚 I am ready for "this" story to end and see what this author has up her sleeve for us next! 👀
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.
After how we left the previous book, I was more than ready to jump back into all that is Under.
Here Aon is a very different version of the Warlock Lydia originally fell for and Lydia has now evolved into what she always was meant to be the mother of monsters. In a bizarre turnabout of events, Edu is now one of Lydia's most staunchest allies and Aon seems to be a power-hungry despot with a god complex. Aon's most earnest wish along with the ancients is that Lydia takes her place at his side as his Queen. All he remembers from his years as the mad warlock is his connection to Lydia and how much he still adores her.
I raced through this and there were times I just felt so sorry for Aon. His actions were despicable and those of a tyrant but he just lacked the ability to connect to others in this instalment he was a much more ancient and colder version of himself. I also found that the heat factor was cranked up slightly here and I for one appreciated that. The King of None is very much a battle of wills between Lydia and Aon and they went head to head often throughout this. I am looking forward to finally reaching their end game in the final volume to come. This was so well written and engaging as expected. I am very much ready now for them to arrive at there final destination. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of King of None (The Masks of Under #5).
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.
After how we left the previous book, I was more than ready to jump back into all that is Under.
Here Aon is a very different version of the Warlock Lydia originally fell for and Lydia has now evolved into what she always was meant to be the mother of monsters. In a bizarre turnabout of events, Edu is now one of Lydia's most staunchest allies and Aon seems to be a power-hungry despot with a god complex. Aon's most earnest wish along with the ancients is that Lydia takes her place at his side as his Queen. All he remembers from his years as the mad warlock is his connection to Lydia and how much he still adores her.
I raced through this and there were times I just felt so sorry for Aon. His actions were despicable and those of a tyrant but he just lacked the ability to connect to others in this instalment he was a much more ancient and colder version of himself. I also found that the heat factor was cranked up slightly here and I for one appreciated that. The King of None is very much a battle of wills between Lydia and Aon and they went head to head often throughout this. I am looking forward to finally reaching their end game in the final volume to come. This was so well written and engaging as expected. I am very much ready now for them to arrive at there final destination. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of King of None (The Masks of Under #5).
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
dnf
July 14, 2019Is it bad when you want the heroine to get killed so you don’t have to listen to her thoughts anymore?
Now this has been a good series. Let’s be honest I wouldn’t have tried so hard to read this book if not. But this series has suffered all along from the books being cut from three to six.
This was the worst one and I struggled almost from the beginning. I was skimming very early on and continued skimming just to try and reach the end. I was forcing myself to read. It had become a chore and about half way in I just couldn’t face anymore.
Why did I not quit earlier?
I wanted to but while books 1, 3 and 5 have been disappointing. Books 2, 4 and I hoped 6 have made up for it.
If I thought there was a chance I could read 6 and skip this book I would.
I’m sorry. I really wanted to finish this but it’s been days. I even stopped and read other books in between. Reading became a chore and I was forcing myself to read to try and finish it. It got to the point I was dreading picking up my kindle.
So I’m tapping out.
Now this has been a good series. Let’s be honest I wouldn’t have tried so hard to read this book if not. But this series has suffered all along from the books being cut from three to six.
This was the worst one and I struggled almost from the beginning. I was skimming very early on and continued skimming just to try and reach the end. I was forcing myself to read. It had become a chore and about half way in I just couldn’t face anymore.
Why did I not quit earlier?
I wanted to but while books 1, 3 and 5 have been disappointing. Books 2, 4 and I hoped 6 have made up for it.
If I thought there was a chance I could read 6 and skip this book I would.
I’m sorry. I really wanted to finish this but it’s been days. I even stopped and read other books in between. Reading became a chore and I was forcing myself to read to try and finish it. It got to the point I was dreading picking up my kindle.
So I’m tapping out.
November 29, 2020
5 Stars!
I don't know who I like more, crazy Aon or tyrant Aon. I do know that I want both though🤷😌
I don't know who I like more, crazy Aon or tyrant Aon. I do know that I want both though🤷😌
July 10, 2019
Damn, this author can write. This was so good. Loved every second of it, was it a teensy bit repetitive, yes it was but it was hell of a good book. Can't wait for book six!
July 14, 2019
First of all: I did not enjoy this.
Granted, I don't believe this book was written for actual enjoyment, but damn, this was a struggle at times...
I feel like this installment was the one that has suffered most by the fact that this series which was initially planned as a trilogy was split into six books instead, as it was completely lacking any positive emotions. All there was, was irritation, tragedy, desperation and dreariness. No respite from all those negative feelings and now I feel utterly drained.
And that's exactly why I'm feeling so torn right now. Because I don't think me being such a thin-skinned wuss should have a negative influence on my rating of this book. After all, this is still an amazing series. The storytelling is fabulous, the world-building so freaking imaginative and unique. And those characters... I haven't been this invested in anything for a long, long time.
So I'm going to ignore my gloomy mood this has brought about and critizise instead something that really bothered me throughout the book, hence "only" 3 stars: the narration.
I guess it isn't a good sign when you find yourself enjoying the side characters a lot more than a heroine you've been secretely girl-crushing on for four entire books, but hoo boy, Lydia grated on my nerves... All her repetitive inner rambling was aggravating and tiresome. Where has the strong-willed, resilient woman gone? All she kept telling me (over and over and over again) was how drawn she was to Aon despite the fact that he was a soulless bastard, and how she didn't know if she would be able to resist him...
The interactions between her and Aon weren't any better. Repetitive. Irritating. And after a while, boring.
It literally hurts me to leave my review at this, so I'll try to end it on a positive note:
Despite my disappointment with this installment, I can't wait to get my hands on the last book of this series. I can't wait to see what else Kingsley's evil, sadistic mind has in store for us.
I'm just hoping for a happy end. I don't think I could stomach anything else.
July 20, 2019
Cliffhanger ending.
July 15, 2019
I love this series. I don't want to post my opinions and spoil things for others. I will say I can't wait till the last book to see how this all ends.
January 8, 2020
How does it happen that 5 books in, and the stakes keep getting upped more and more each time?
My poor weak little heart can't take this, and the cliffhanger ending!
My poor weak little heart can't take this, and the cliffhanger ending!
July 9, 2019
"Isn't that such the nature of life? To not know what you have, until the moment it is gone?"
I tried to be very careful not to write any spoilers
In the previous episode Under had finally been restored to its full beauty. There was hope, cause for celebration ~ until once again our newest Queen was viewed as less than.
Aon in his grief and anger at the betrayal against his sweet Lydia sought vengeance. He would show no mercy. No thought to the consequences of his actions. Justice would be served by his hand.
In doing so he destroyed the one being that held Unders darkest evils in chains, dooming Under once again to be nothing more than the playground of the Ancients and its inhabitants reduced to nothing but fodder to be tossed about and discarded.
And so the King has risen with one goal - to acquire his Queen
(Not sure how well that is working out for him)
I'm a bit torn. I understand the ancients are not all there mentally. But really what do they hope to gain with their actions? If you break all your toys you have nothing ...
Aon has undergone some changes ... He is still the same sadistic ruler though now slightly more? How can he not understand that if he follows through with his plan it will not be HIS Lydia that stands at his side?
Lydia... I know not where her strength comes from though I do understand her drive. Why lie to yourself when the truth is just as painful, maybe even less? She knows there is always a choice, maybe not the easiest or with the preferred results but it is still HER choice. The problem is can she survive long enough to find a way to fix this?
I need to know how this ends.
It took me a bit to fix the review (it is hard to type when you can't breath) - The weight on my chest has eased some though I am still haunted by the losses and the choices that lie ahead ... I do not see any as a win
This is the fifth book in a series of six -
No, they are not standalone -
Yes, they are a must-read series!
I tried to be very careful not to write any spoilers
In the previous episode Under had finally been restored to its full beauty. There was hope, cause for celebration ~ until once again our newest Queen was viewed as less than.
Aon in his grief and anger at the betrayal against his sweet Lydia sought vengeance. He would show no mercy. No thought to the consequences of his actions. Justice would be served by his hand.
In doing so he destroyed the one being that held Unders darkest evils in chains, dooming Under once again to be nothing more than the playground of the Ancients and its inhabitants reduced to nothing but fodder to be tossed about and discarded.
And so the King has risen with one goal - to acquire his Queen
(Not sure how well that is working out for him)
I'm a bit torn. I understand the ancients are not all there mentally. But really what do they hope to gain with their actions? If you break all your toys you have nothing ...
Aon has undergone some changes ... He is still the same sadistic ruler though now slightly more? How can he not understand that if he follows through with his plan it will not be HIS Lydia that stands at his side?
Lydia... I know not where her strength comes from though I do understand her drive. Why lie to yourself when the truth is just as painful, maybe even less? She knows there is always a choice, maybe not the easiest or with the preferred results but it is still HER choice. The problem is can she survive long enough to find a way to fix this?
I need to know how this ends.
It took me a bit to fix the review (it is hard to type when you can't breath) - The weight on my chest has eased some though I am still haunted by the losses and the choices that lie ahead ... I do not see any as a win
This is the fifth book in a series of six -
No, they are not standalone -
Yes, they are a must-read series!
Want to read
November 8, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/8/2019)! 🎁
January 22, 2020
4.5 Stars
At what point will Aon be irredeemable? How far will he have to take it to the point of no return.
This series is so good, and the characters are all so amazing, i'm at a loss at how this will all get wrapped up. I'm feel for Lydia
On the last book i go ** EEEKKK**
At what point will Aon be irredeemable? How far will he have to take it to the point of no return.
This series is so good, and the characters are all so amazing, i'm at a loss at how this will all get wrapped up. I'm feel for Lydia
On the last book i go ** EEEKKK**
January 11, 2020
Dream haunter Aon returns chasing down Lydia to be his queen. I miss Q but I like how she's now embraced her powers and has a bit of a sadistic streak. The chase was entertaining and you can tell the king of all is OLD. They were pets or children to him. The whole thing was entertaining. Not much was accomplished but it was enjoyable and I'm looking forward to seeing how the series ends. Favourite character was Edu. The guy has grown alot and without Ylena there was a whole another side to him. I love these characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2019
So many mixed feelings about this series, but I can say without reservation that it is a worthwhile read...yes all 6 books.
Kingsley masterfully mixed between heart-wrenching inner turmoil, dialogue that moves the plot, and action scenes that kept you on the edge of your seat. This book and the one prior in particular took the reader into the weeds, working through Lydia’s conflicting emotions, ideas about fate, love, sacrifice...which truly has me pondering the condition of someone (Aon/Noa) who had lived for eons. How would that corrupt the mind? Skew one’s sense of reality?
I’ll admit, this genre rarely asks its readers to do this kind of thinking. Or perhaps I’m too wrapped up in the plot to notice those types of breadcrumbs. But here, I found myself captivated with more than the A-plot. I wanted to read more about the likes of Lyon and Kamira, Edu and his valor and past loves. I appreciate that Kingsley wove the plights and backstories of these supporting characters into the plot, lest we get bored by Lydia and Aon.
Now...I wish. I wish I wish that we got the big payoff of seeing Aon be Aon at the end of this book. After the first two books, I came to adore the push and pull between these two. The spark. The banter....And instead it just felt like a bit of a fizzle at the end. I wanted fireworks! I read 5.75 books in anticipation of a little revisit of his brand of villainy ...so I felt a little bit short changed.
Kingsley masterfully mixed between heart-wrenching inner turmoil, dialogue that moves the plot, and action scenes that kept you on the edge of your seat. This book and the one prior in particular took the reader into the weeds, working through Lydia’s conflicting emotions, ideas about fate, love, sacrifice...which truly has me pondering the condition of someone (Aon/Noa) who had lived for eons. How would that corrupt the mind? Skew one’s sense of reality?
I’ll admit, this genre rarely asks its readers to do this kind of thinking. Or perhaps I’m too wrapped up in the plot to notice those types of breadcrumbs. But here, I found myself captivated with more than the A-plot. I wanted to read more about the likes of Lyon and Kamira, Edu and his valor and past loves. I appreciate that Kingsley wove the plights and backstories of these supporting characters into the plot, lest we get bored by Lydia and Aon.
Now...I wish. I wish I wish that we got the big payoff of seeing Aon be Aon at the end of this book. After the first two books, I came to adore the push and pull between these two. The spark. The banter....And instead it just felt like a bit of a fizzle at the end. I wanted fireworks! I read 5.75 books in anticipation of a little revisit of his brand of villainy ...so I felt a little bit short changed.
July 14, 2019
First off, this is an amazing series. It is well written, the world building is excellent, the characters are complex and well drawn and there's good pacing.
Lydia and Aon's relationship is so nuanced and I have loved following heir love story.
However, this installment is definitely my least favourite. Lydia and Aon are the main focus for me in this series, and like Lydia, we as readers struggle to reconcile what Aon has now become. He says he's his true self, but he is essentially programmed by the Ancients. Like Lydia, I'm not sure I could ever root for him, or them in the same way, because he does not appear to truly love her anymore, he's just desperately trying to cling hold to her. The same behaviour is eched in Lyon. He'd never consider killing Kamira with out the Ancients influencing him.
The next book is the final one and I really hope that there is a HEA and that, if the Aonwe came to know and love truly aosnt going to return, then this new man has a drastic personality shift!
Lydia and Aon's relationship is so nuanced and I have loved following heir love story.
However, this installment is definitely my least favourite. Lydia and Aon are the main focus for me in this series, and like Lydia, we as readers struggle to reconcile what Aon has now become. He says he's his true self, but he is essentially programmed by the Ancients. Like Lydia, I'm not sure I could ever root for him, or them in the same way, because he does not appear to truly love her anymore, he's just desperately trying to cling hold to her. The same behaviour is eched in Lyon. He'd never consider killing Kamira with out the Ancients influencing him.
The next book is the final one and I really hope that there is a HEA and that, if the Aonwe came to know and love truly aosnt going to return, then this new man has a drastic personality shift!
August 2, 2019
Aon destroyed the world for Lydia. Now the world that she knew as Under, has reverted to its previous landscape from the dark times when the Ancients roamed it. With their presence, Aon has changed and is not the man that Lydia fell in love with...and he is hunting her.
Ok so there was a little adjustment to this new Under and its rules, etc. I felt like we had just started to understand Under as it was and now things are all different. I find it a little ironic that the old Under didn't have a sun and was literally dark all the time, but the new Under has a blazing sun out most of the time, but its people are experiencing their darkest times. Aon and the Ancients want Lydia to give up and prostrate herself before them, but she's a stubborn feisty woman! I hope she continues to hold out despite Aon's relentlessness. I can't wait to dive into the next book to see.
Ok so there was a little adjustment to this new Under and its rules, etc. I felt like we had just started to understand Under as it was and now things are all different. I find it a little ironic that the old Under didn't have a sun and was literally dark all the time, but the new Under has a blazing sun out most of the time, but its people are experiencing their darkest times. Aon and the Ancients want Lydia to give up and prostrate herself before them, but she's a stubborn feisty woman! I hope she continues to hold out despite Aon's relentlessness. I can't wait to dive into the next book to see.
July 14, 2019
5 stars
I'm starting to believe that my obsession with these books is a little unhealthy. But then I read the next one and I stop caring. I mean, have you read them ? A little obsession is good for you sometimes.
I'm starting to believe that my obsession with these books is a little unhealthy. But then I read the next one and I stop caring. I mean, have you read them ? A little obsession is good for you sometimes.
November 17, 2024
This is the 5th book in the series and I have been fortunate enough to have arc read all of them so far. I fell in love with this universe and Lydia’s story from the very beginning. Watching the relationships evoke, dissolve and end has been a rollercoaster of a ride and I love it.
King of None was no exception, Kingsley brought out all the feels and emotions, and once again I was on the edge of my seat to finish this. My only issue is what felt like a lack of climax on this book, perhaps it could have been combined with the next book, but it felt a bit too short. But overall it was great.
King of None was no exception, Kingsley brought out all the feels and emotions, and once again I was on the edge of my seat to finish this. My only issue is what felt like a lack of climax on this book, perhaps it could have been combined with the next book, but it felt a bit too short. But overall it was great.
May 24, 2022
I like Aon, but it's starting to get a bit annoying...
Anyway, a great series still. And I'm really curious how it will all end.
Anyway, a great series still. And I'm really curious how it will all end.
March 21, 2025
Intense plot-twist
- I would like to thank Netgalley and Second Sky for the eARC -
BOOK 5/6 in the MASKS OF UNDER series
Wow. This was even more intense than the previous ones, and I don't say that lightly. It's going to be hard to describe how this book made me feel without spoilers but I'll try. Basically, the new villain introduced in this one definitely turned my brain upside-down - as well as Lydia's, I believe. I really liked this plot-twist and how it played into the political and romantic intrigue. It was a very nice and surprising change of plans for the story and I was there for it. This book was even darker for it and I loved that. Lydia is, as always, amazing with dealing with all that's been thrown at her, and I really like seeing her come into her new power and station. I'm excited to see what will happen in the finale because I've lost my breath and I need to catch it, please.
I recommend this series if you like dark fantasy romance!
"For her, he had destroyed the world. For her, he had destroyed himself."
TW: violence, death, murder, blood, sexual content, sexual assault, sexual violence, war, torture, assault, abuse
- I would like to thank Netgalley and Second Sky for the eARC -
BOOK 5/6 in the MASKS OF UNDER series
Wow. This was even more intense than the previous ones, and I don't say that lightly. It's going to be hard to describe how this book made me feel without spoilers but I'll try. Basically, the new villain introduced in this one definitely turned my brain upside-down - as well as Lydia's, I believe. I really liked this plot-twist and how it played into the political and romantic intrigue. It was a very nice and surprising change of plans for the story and I was there for it. This book was even darker for it and I loved that. Lydia is, as always, amazing with dealing with all that's been thrown at her, and I really like seeing her come into her new power and station. I'm excited to see what will happen in the finale because I've lost my breath and I need to catch it, please.
I recommend this series if you like dark fantasy romance!
"For her, he had destroyed the world. For her, he had destroyed himself."
TW: violence, death, murder, blood, sexual content, sexual assault, sexual violence, war, torture, assault, abuse
July 3, 2019
Once again, Lydia, the heroine, finds love can be a deadly thing. She’s faced unbelievable, unimaginable odds and circumstances since we first met her in book 1, King of Flames. Now the heat is really turned up, as she has to do battle with a cold, calculating, seemingly unbeatable adversary who seems destined to love her to death. It looks like Lydia will have to dig deep into her own bag of paranormal abilities and tricks to prove love truly can conquer even the most savage beast. With a never give up, never surrender attitude, this always stays true to herself heroine proves you can’t keep a good woman down. She’s also proven time and time again she’ll sacrifice herself for the good of others.
Aon, the hero, is in rare form here, folks. To say he’s not himself is quite an understatement. According to this self proclaimed King of everything, he’s right as rain and now reigns over every nook, cranny, living and even undead creature in the land of Under. He’s feared by everyone, even those courageous enough to attempt to stand up against him. Lydia is helping lead the charge in this dangerous rebellion, all while desperately wanting to destroy and save Aon at the same time.
Lydia is looking and feeling quite differently herself, my fellow fans of The Masks of Under series. She’s shifted in a powerful makeover of her own enabling her to face off and down a man claiming to love her for eternity and beyond. But there are some big, ancient problems standing in the way of this main couple’s HEA.
It was quite shocking to see this resurrected version of Aon of old up close and personal. Better brace yourself because unexpected, gruesome murder and mayhem come as easy to him as breathing. I kinda sorta hated him at times. You just have to keep in mind there is a lot of history and elements into play here that put an unexpected spin on things. My heart broke but at the same time was filled with hope at a glimpse we were given that someone was still fighting to break free and make things right.
Here’s to hoping all this turmoil will be ancient history when the Ancients get their just rewards. Yeah, I can’t wait for the clock to run out on them and a great reckoning kicks in. I think that would be a great wrap up to this completely captivating series. There’s one more book yet to be released to find out how it all actually ends.
P.S. If you hurry, you can read this series as part of Kindle Unlimited.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: King of None, Series: The Masks of Under (Book 5), Author: Kathryn Ann Kingsley, Pages: 214, not a stand-alone, must read all books in order, graphic/at times very gruesome fight scenes, no love triangle, no OW/OM drama, not together as a couple in this book.
Book 1 - King of Flames
Book 2 - King of Shadows
Book 3 - Queen of Dreams
Book 4 - King of Blood
Book 5 - King of None
(One more book 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).
Aon, the hero, is in rare form here, folks. To say he’s not himself is quite an understatement. According to this self proclaimed King of everything, he’s right as rain and now reigns over every nook, cranny, living and even undead creature in the land of Under. He’s feared by everyone, even those courageous enough to attempt to stand up against him. Lydia is helping lead the charge in this dangerous rebellion, all while desperately wanting to destroy and save Aon at the same time.
Lydia is looking and feeling quite differently herself, my fellow fans of The Masks of Under series. She’s shifted in a powerful makeover of her own enabling her to face off and down a man claiming to love her for eternity and beyond. But there are some big, ancient problems standing in the way of this main couple’s HEA.
It was quite shocking to see this resurrected version of Aon of old up close and personal. Better brace yourself because unexpected, gruesome murder and mayhem come as easy to him as breathing. I kinda sorta hated him at times. You just have to keep in mind there is a lot of history and elements into play here that put an unexpected spin on things. My heart broke but at the same time was filled with hope at a glimpse we were given that someone was still fighting to break free and make things right.
Here’s to hoping all this turmoil will be ancient history when the Ancients get their just rewards. Yeah, I can’t wait for the clock to run out on them and a great reckoning kicks in. I think that would be a great wrap up to this completely captivating series. There’s one more book yet to be released to find out how it all actually ends.
P.S. If you hurry, you can read this series as part of Kindle Unlimited.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: King of None, Series: The Masks of Under (Book 5), Author: Kathryn Ann Kingsley, Pages: 214, not a stand-alone, must read all books in order, graphic/at times very gruesome fight scenes, no love triangle, no OW/OM drama, not together as a couple in this book.
Book 1 - King of Flames
Book 2 - King of Shadows
Book 3 - Queen of Dreams
Book 4 - King of Blood
Book 5 - King of None
(One more book 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).
July 10, 2019
Possible spoilers
This fifth installment, dang, it had me feeling so much despair and hope. There's no beating the king of all; we see how powerful he truly is. Even though Lydia has officially grasped her power, I felt the despair that the people of under could not or would not survive. Hate towards the ancients. Anger towards the unfairness of it all. But also, I cling to that glimmer of hope that all will be well even though it really doesn't look that way. There's fire in those that rebel and Lydia keeps hers. I love the way these books have been written; the writing itself is solid and so engrossing. The author truly knows how to weave such a tale and of such a magnitude that I am in awe. These books have only gotten better; the vivid descriptions really pull you in. The dialogue, the storyline and all is well executed and flows naturally. The narrative is still done from multiple perspectives (more so in this book than the others which also serves to pull the reader in). The dynamics of this world are excellent. there's lots of conflict! I find, as the books go on, that I really care for those I hated and have resentment towards those I cared for. I still embrace them all! There is no explicit sex still but recall that this is a romance at It's heart- even though this particular book had a lot more fights. While there is a lot of action, I really didn't find it to be graphically violent (gory) - at least not more so than any of the other books. Mild profanity same as you found in the others.
there is a bit of a cliffhanger- same as the rest of the books. all in all, highly entertaining. The books are not finished but I've become quite invested through time. Cheers to the author for a series that has really grown in me
This fifth installment, dang, it had me feeling so much despair and hope. There's no beating the king of all; we see how powerful he truly is. Even though Lydia has officially grasped her power, I felt the despair that the people of under could not or would not survive. Hate towards the ancients. Anger towards the unfairness of it all. But also, I cling to that glimmer of hope that all will be well even though it really doesn't look that way. There's fire in those that rebel and Lydia keeps hers. I love the way these books have been written; the writing itself is solid and so engrossing. The author truly knows how to weave such a tale and of such a magnitude that I am in awe. These books have only gotten better; the vivid descriptions really pull you in. The dialogue, the storyline and all is well executed and flows naturally. The narrative is still done from multiple perspectives (more so in this book than the others which also serves to pull the reader in). The dynamics of this world are excellent. there's lots of conflict! I find, as the books go on, that I really care for those I hated and have resentment towards those I cared for. I still embrace them all! There is no explicit sex still but recall that this is a romance at It's heart- even though this particular book had a lot more fights. While there is a lot of action, I really didn't find it to be graphically violent (gory) - at least not more so than any of the other books. Mild profanity same as you found in the others.
there is a bit of a cliffhanger- same as the rest of the books. all in all, highly entertaining. The books are not finished but I've become quite invested through time. Cheers to the author for a series that has really grown in me
July 10, 2019
The Masks of Under series takes place in the dark monstrous world of Under. It is the story of Lydia, taken from earth and thrust into a twisted gory world controlled by a group of beings known as the Ancients. There is a lot of violence and gore similar to what you’d find in comic books and adult anime. If you’re new to the series you should definitely start at the beginning- the books should be read in order.
Book 5 King of None reveals a horrifying twist in Aon and Lydia’s relationship. The Ancients are playing a sickening game with Lydia’s life and the lives of the other kings and queens of Under. Now that the Ancients are free Aon becomes his true self – the King of All and this is not good. Their relationship turns toxic as he forces Lydia to surrender to his will and the will of the Ancients. Lydia knows it’s inevitable but she can’t help fight back all the while wondering if the Aon she fell in love with is still somewhere inside the King of All. I like how Lydia really comes into her own in this book. I did have trouble with the violence between Aon and Lydia and what Aon does to Ylena, Edu's empath (I don't understand how Lydia could love someone who is so vicious and clearly unstable) but I need to know how this story ends and what game the Ancients are playing. Can’t wait to find out how the series ends!
Book 5 King of None reveals a horrifying twist in Aon and Lydia’s relationship. The Ancients are playing a sickening game with Lydia’s life and the lives of the other kings and queens of Under. Now that the Ancients are free Aon becomes his true self – the King of All and this is not good. Their relationship turns toxic as he forces Lydia to surrender to his will and the will of the Ancients. Lydia knows it’s inevitable but she can’t help fight back all the while wondering if the Aon she fell in love with is still somewhere inside the King of All. I like how Lydia really comes into her own in this book. I did have trouble with the violence between Aon and Lydia and what Aon does to Ylena, Edu's empath (I don't understand how Lydia could love someone who is so vicious and clearly unstable) but I need to know how this story ends and what game the Ancients are playing. Can’t wait to find out how the series ends!
August 2, 2019
4.5 stars. The greatness continues here in book 5 and man am I so glad I waited on Book 6 to come out before getting this far in the series. This book takes on a whole new tone and really brings out the heart wrenching need and hopelessness of their situation. I mean what would you choose? Would you choose to serve in order to achieve everlasting peace and possibly happiness but maybe loose a part of yourself in the meantime? Or would you choose to suffer, even if all those you care about around you had to suffer also in order to not have to face that unknown.. in order to not be broken? I feel like series in a weird roundabout way is almost built upon some really interesting foundations that our society as we know it could be simplified down to. What do you choose to do for love?
I read love stories all the time with heros and heroines that are willing to sacrifice anything for love. I mean that is the basis of stories and myths dating all the way back to the B.C. And then you have Lydia who won't.. she won't bend the knee, she won't give up a piece of herself or sacrifice her friends for love. I can't help but love her. What a unique concept to want love so bad but also be unwilling to waiver in "how" you want it.
I can't wait to see how the author is going to iron some of this out.. I feel like it may shake me up even more than Im already shook and Im so excited about it!
I read love stories all the time with heros and heroines that are willing to sacrifice anything for love. I mean that is the basis of stories and myths dating all the way back to the B.C. And then you have Lydia who won't.. she won't bend the knee, she won't give up a piece of herself or sacrifice her friends for love. I can't help but love her. What a unique concept to want love so bad but also be unwilling to waiver in "how" you want it.
I can't wait to see how the author is going to iron some of this out.. I feel like it may shake me up even more than Im already shook and Im so excited about it!
July 9, 2019
Kathryn Ann Kingsley has sucked me into her world of The Masks of Under effortlessly with her addictive writing style, and frankly I CANNOT get enough, so when I finish each book I'm chomping at the bit for the next one. Not only that, it's a series that I know I will be reading over & over again even after it's finished in it's entirety. Now, King of None is the 5th book in this series which is filled with so many layers, so seriously, YOU HAVE TO READ BOOKS 1-4 FIRST AND IN ORDER to understand all that has taken place. This book was the most intense book yet, as I was on the edge of my seat the whole time I was reading, not to mention, I didn't put it down for even one second to do anything else. There's so much going on, things that I'm not even willing to talk about as it would give spoilers away in my opinion, but OMG! You don't want to miss even one page. The twists, OH THE TWISTS! They were filled with turns, while the turns were all twisted up, and things I NEVER thought would happen, well, they happened, so I seriously just dropped f-bombs until I couldn't drop them anymore. For every questions answered, 20 more popped up in its place, so I can honestly say that I have no clue as to what is going to happen next, but I'm totally here for it! This is an AWESOME series, and trust me, you want to one click this bad boy! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
July 1, 2019
To say I am utterly devastated would be an understatement. I've done nothing but cry and stare at the pages. Kathryn Ann Kingsley has completely and thoroughly wrecked me. I'm lost, adrift with no idea how to carry on. A bit dramatic, but so true. Everything has been leading up to this point. Aon. Lydia. Lyon. Edu. Kamira. As well as all the others, the truth is finally revealed and it is devastating.
Through this entire series, so far, I've loved seeing Lydia become stronger and stronger. More intune with herself. She fully embraces her marks and magic now. For she has no choice. Aon is not who we fell in love with. I honestly had to put the book down a few times just to breathe. What he has become is worse than what he ever was. My heart hurts for him. He doesn't want this, yet it is the price he is forced to pay.
My heart is bleeding out. I need the next book like an addict needs their next high. King Of None will destroy you, leave you hopeless, and wishing for a better outcome.
Through this entire series, so far, I've loved seeing Lydia become stronger and stronger. More intune with herself. She fully embraces her marks and magic now. For she has no choice. Aon is not who we fell in love with. I honestly had to put the book down a few times just to breathe. What he has become is worse than what he ever was. My heart hurts for him. He doesn't want this, yet it is the price he is forced to pay.
My heart is bleeding out. I need the next book like an addict needs their next high. King Of None will destroy you, leave you hopeless, and wishing for a better outcome.
July 9, 2019
This one was hard to read. A whirlwind of emotions. Lydia, staying true to herself, really stood her ground, I loved seeing the turmoil and trouble she went through to really stick to her guns and not give in.. I would've given myself up to Aon way before she did! Enjoyed knowing that even though it was futile, she still stood up to fight. Bloody great character. Edu is growing on me. I was worried he was going to be the love interest at the beginning which put me off! Anyway, strong female leads in books are tough to find and she's totally up there with Kate Daniel's, so I implore you to give this series a chance! Again, hands down amazing writing, full of emotions and characters that I'll miss!
Can't wait for the next book.
Can't wait for the next book.
July 9, 2019
4.5 Stars
This was just ok for me, not my favorite of the series (that was King of Shadows). The truth is finally revealed, yay!!! It is truly heartbreaking when it comes to light. Lydia is so strong throughout the series but she really comes into her own in this book. My heart really broke for Aon, he doesn’t want any of this but it his price to pay. I can’t wait for the final installment of this series!!! What will this author do to wrap up her first series?
This was just ok for me, not my favorite of the series (that was King of Shadows). The truth is finally revealed, yay!!! It is truly heartbreaking when it comes to light. Lydia is so strong throughout the series but she really comes into her own in this book. My heart really broke for Aon, he doesn’t want any of this but it his price to pay. I can’t wait for the final installment of this series!!! What will this author do to wrap up her first series?
July 10, 2019
I do so enjoy this series.
This has been such a unique story that there is nothing that I can really compare it to. At the heart of it all, I find that I really like how everything is shaded in greys. Intentions are good but still lead to bad actions while bad acts are committed for the best of reasons. Forgiveness, hope, perseverance, friendship, and love have me determined to see this through until its conclusion. I'm really hoping for a happy ending here.
This has been such a unique story that there is nothing that I can really compare it to. At the heart of it all, I find that I really like how everything is shaded in greys. Intentions are good but still lead to bad actions while bad acts are committed for the best of reasons. Forgiveness, hope, perseverance, friendship, and love have me determined to see this through until its conclusion. I'm really hoping for a happy ending here.
July 10, 2019
Addicting
This series is honestly the best I've read
It keeps u in suspense but doesn't have everyone give up so easily like all the others I've read. It's on the edge of your seat story and u will be left with wanting more. This series is a must read.
This series is honestly the best I've read
It keeps u in suspense but doesn't have everyone give up so easily like all the others I've read. It's on the edge of your seat story and u will be left with wanting more. This series is a must read.
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