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The Masks of Under #3
Queen of Dreams
I died.
It was supposed to be the end of my story. But after Aon buried me in the Pool of the Ancients, I learned that Under wasn’t done with me yet.
Even though I escaped death the first time, there’s a prophecy predicting my demise, and it’s driving Aon mad. His desperation to protect me is dangerous, deadly, and I’m afraid of what he might do.
The void that threatens to destroy this world is receding, yet Under is still not safe. I can feel it in my blood, the warning that something terrible is coming. Something bigger and stronger than all of us.
But I am no longer the human girl merely fighting for survival. I’m different now, changed into something this world hasn’t seen in fifteen hundred years.
I am immortal, a queen of Under.
I am the Queen of Dreams.
It was supposed to be the end of my story. But after Aon buried me in the Pool of the Ancients, I learned that Under wasn’t done with me yet.
Even though I escaped death the first time, there’s a prophecy predicting my demise, and it’s driving Aon mad. His desperation to protect me is dangerous, deadly, and I’m afraid of what he might do.
The void that threatens to destroy this world is receding, yet Under is still not safe. I can feel it in my blood, the warning that something terrible is coming. Something bigger and stronger than all of us.
But I am no longer the human girl merely fighting for survival. I’m different now, changed into something this world hasn’t seen in fifteen hundred years.
I am immortal, a queen of Under.
I am the Queen of Dreams.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 28, 2019
507 people are currently reading
553 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Ann Kingsley
67 books2,462 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 143 reviews
May 26, 2019
This book hurt my heart so much...and I don't even want to talk about it. I just want to wallow. You suck Miz Kingsley...(lol) Not really...but you kind of do. ;D
Honesty, this will be a pretty brief review. This is book three out of six, and I have already commented on the writing, and pace, and plot. All of which remain outstanding. If the last three books stay the course, then this may very well turn out to be one of my favorite series of all time. All the characters here are so well written. With new ones being added every book. However, I will admit Edu's one track mind if starting to get a little annoying. Dude seems to be dumber than a box of rocks. (lol) That said, as I mentioned above we still have three more books to go, so a lot of stories are yet to be told and yours truly will wait
December 24, 2024
This review will have spoilers!
*3.5* I’m being generous with this rating because I really like the universe this author has created.
While I loved the first two books in this series, the third installment didn’t quite hit the same mark for me. Lydia’s rebirth wasn’t much of a surprise as it was foreshadowed often in previous books. Despite her new title, she remains ensnared between two formidable adversaries: Aon, the King of Shadows, and Edu, the relentless enemy who refuses to compromise.
✔️Urban fantasy
✔️Strong FMC
✔️Age gap (he’s 2000+ years older)
✔️Violent and gritty
✔️Parallel universe setting
✔️DARK
**Warning: Major spoilers ahead!**
🛑
🛑
🛑
Aon’s decision to kill Lydia’s best friend felt so wrong, and how can he be sure Nick is the friend who would betray her?! Additionally, his repeated physical and emotional harm, even when framed as “for her own good,” was VERY difficult to stomach.
In an attempt to get me to spread my proverbial wings, he autopsied me alive. He killed my best friend and made me watch.
*3.5* I’m being generous with this rating because I really like the universe this author has created.
While I loved the first two books in this series, the third installment didn’t quite hit the same mark for me. Lydia’s rebirth wasn’t much of a surprise as it was foreshadowed often in previous books. Despite her new title, she remains ensnared between two formidable adversaries: Aon, the King of Shadows, and Edu, the relentless enemy who refuses to compromise.
✔️Urban fantasy
✔️Strong FMC
✔️Age gap (he’s 2000+ years older)
✔️Violent and gritty
✔️Parallel universe setting
✔️DARK
**Warning: Major spoilers ahead!**
🛑
🛑
🛑
Aon’s decision to kill Lydia’s best friend felt so wrong, and how can he be sure Nick is the friend who would betray her?! Additionally, his repeated physical and emotional harm, even when framed as “for her own good,” was VERY difficult to stomach.
In an attempt to get me to spread my proverbial wings, he autopsied me alive. He killed my best friend and made me watch.
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.
Oh, this is just the best, it's turning into one of my stand-out favourite series EVER!!!! and let me tell you I have read a lot of books.
So where are we at now, this is book 3 with 3 more to go and every instalment of this is as different and also as good as the last one. Lydia is now Queen of Dreams, the mother of monsters and with her trusty sidekick of Q an inner monologue and now separate entity of her conciseness it's time to kick butt. Aon is trying his utmost to motivate Lydia to be self-sufficient and in charge of her own protection even if that means using methods that may be extremely unpleasant. Aeon himself is such a contradiction of extremities, the contrast between Aon's bloody inventive tortures and yes I do mean that literally and his loving regard and affection for his dragonfly was intense.
She also finally gets to see the man behind the mask.
This was such a page-turner and I couldn't put it down, I raced through in record time not wanting it to come to an end as I was having such fun and immersed in all that was under. We have a prophecy that leads to a jaw-dropping decision, a new player is also brought forth. Edu that sanctimonious tin can is still on the warpath and Lydia steps out from behind her Warlock and stands alone taking baby steps into her new world while also trying to make peace with Aon's actions. Adored everything here have no negatives at all it was stand-out bloody amazing from start to finish. All I need now is "King of Blood" can't bloody wait!!! I voluntarily reviewed a copy of Queen of Dreams (The Masks of Under #3).
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.
Oh, this is just the best, it's turning into one of my stand-out favourite series EVER!!!! and let me tell you I have read a lot of books.
So where are we at now, this is book 3 with 3 more to go and every instalment of this is as different and also as good as the last one. Lydia is now Queen of Dreams, the mother of monsters and with her trusty sidekick of Q an inner monologue and now separate entity of her conciseness it's time to kick butt. Aon is trying his utmost to motivate Lydia to be self-sufficient and in charge of her own protection even if that means using methods that may be extremely unpleasant. Aeon himself is such a contradiction of extremities, the contrast between Aon's bloody inventive tortures and yes I do mean that literally and his loving regard and affection for his dragonfly was intense.
She also finally gets to see the man behind the mask.
This was such a page-turner and I couldn't put it down, I raced through in record time not wanting it to come to an end as I was having such fun and immersed in all that was under. We have a prophecy that leads to a jaw-dropping decision, a new player is also brought forth. Edu that sanctimonious tin can is still on the warpath and Lydia steps out from behind her Warlock and stands alone taking baby steps into her new world while also trying to make peace with Aon's actions. Adored everything here have no negatives at all it was stand-out bloody amazing from start to finish. All I need now is "King of Blood" can't bloody wait!!! I voluntarily reviewed a copy of Queen of Dreams (The Masks of Under #3).
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
May 30, 2019
Man, this is getting seriously dark. I love it.
I really don't know what to make of my immense enjoyment of this series. What exactly is it that draws me in so effortlessly? Is it the characters? Most certainly the biggest strength of the series, yes, but it's so much more... The story, the universe, the imagery, the writing, the uniqueness of it all... Fuck if I know. Just gimme more!
I freaking adore Lydia. She's so level-headed, smart and resilient. After everything she's been put through since being dragged to the World of Under, she still manages to stand straight and find compassion for the people who've wronged her. I loved Q and their interactions. Their banter was hilarious and provided some very welcome comic relief in an otherwise pretty fucking tense and dark story.
"Why is it that I wound up anthropomorphizing my power into a jackass?"
"Says more about you than it does about me, Cupcake."
And Aon... after the first two books, I was certain that nothing he could do would possibly shock me anymore, but hoo boy, was I ever wrong. Kingley made good on her promise to not let him go soft. He's still the unhinged, despicable, sadistic fiend I love to hate and hate to love so much, and who makes my heart beat faster and my head explode. I'm such a sucker.
What a convoluted, complicated man. Torturing her, tearing out her heart, confessing his love to her and promising to do more, all in the same breath.
One point of criticism, though: I'd rather this book was a little longer, hence me withdrawing one star. Considering that Lydia spends probably more than half of the time confined in her special chamber, I really could've done with some more actual action afterward. I just wasn't fully satisfied before I got hit with yet another cruel cliffhanger.
Still, one of the best series I've come across in a long time. Can't wait for #4!
There was a surge of that familiar fear and delight that mixed together whenever he was around. He was a monster. But he was her monster.
June 16, 2019
The end pushed this up to 3*
I apologise now because this is more of a rant than a review.
I’ve said it before and yet here I am saying it again.
This series was written as 3 books. The publisher made the decision to cut them into 6. This in my opinion was a huge mistake. It was a mistake with the first book and it’s a mistake here.
You know when you read a book which seems slow in the beginning. You skim a little and get annoyed but then it picks up about half way. The second half makes up for the first and by the time you’ve reached the end you’ve forgiven the first half.
The problem here is we don’t get the second half. That’s now book 4.
This book wasn’t what I expected. It’s slow and repetitive Edu hates Aon. We know, we know.
I’m being harsh it’s not all bad. But I want the second half.
We find the true depths of what Aon has done and the reason Edu truly hates him.
There’s some lovely bits.
Aon leaned his head to whisper to her. “I would have you rise as my equal in this world. I would have you tear down all who stand in your way. I would have you build this forsaken world to be your throne. For I love you, and I think I always have…”
“Aon, you’re moping. Want to stab me a few more times to cheer yourself up?” Lydia smirked and nudged him.
“Edu will not touch you. No one will harm you again. No one but I.”
Lydia rubbed the back of her neck. “Well, isn’t that the worst superpower ever? ‘Hey, you’re good at handling massive amounts of the bullshit we throw at you. Here’s some more,’” Lydia griped sarcastically.
The end of the book and the opening chapter of the next book is fabulous. I can’t wait to read it (it’s out in 2 days).
I’m annoyed (incase you couldn’t tell) this book was cut. Why couldn’t we have the books as the author intended?
I apologise now because this is more of a rant than a review.
I’ve said it before and yet here I am saying it again.
This series was written as 3 books. The publisher made the decision to cut them into 6. This in my opinion was a huge mistake. It was a mistake with the first book and it’s a mistake here.
You know when you read a book which seems slow in the beginning. You skim a little and get annoyed but then it picks up about half way. The second half makes up for the first and by the time you’ve reached the end you’ve forgiven the first half.
The problem here is we don’t get the second half. That’s now book 4.
This book wasn’t what I expected. It’s slow and repetitive Edu hates Aon. We know, we know.
I’m being harsh it’s not all bad. But I want the second half.
We find the true depths of what Aon has done and the reason Edu truly hates him.
There’s some lovely bits.
Aon leaned his head to whisper to her. “I would have you rise as my equal in this world. I would have you tear down all who stand in your way. I would have you build this forsaken world to be your throne. For I love you, and I think I always have…”
“Aon, you’re moping. Want to stab me a few more times to cheer yourself up?” Lydia smirked and nudged him.
“Edu will not touch you. No one will harm you again. No one but I.”
Lydia rubbed the back of her neck. “Well, isn’t that the worst superpower ever? ‘Hey, you’re good at handling massive amounts of the bullshit we throw at you. Here’s some more,’” Lydia griped sarcastically.
The end of the book and the opening chapter of the next book is fabulous. I can’t wait to read it (it’s out in 2 days).
I’m annoyed (incase you couldn’t tell) this book was cut. Why couldn’t we have the books as the author intended?
November 28, 2020
4 stars!
Still really enjoying this series, but when I said I wanted to see more of Aon's madness, I didn't mean for it to be toward the heroine 🙃
Still really enjoying this series, but when I said I wanted to see more of Aon's madness, I didn't mean for it to be toward the heroine 🙃
May 29, 2019
Sadly this book did not wow me as much as the first two did. I felt like I was in a loop, the same thing happened over and over again. It was aggravating. I know Aon wants to protect Lydia but he is sadistic. I know Edu wants to kill Lydia because he hates everything Aon remotely likes. I knew all these things from the last book. I did not have to be told over and over again.
I know this is going to be a six book series so I really hope they don't become all repetitive cos that would suck.
I know this is going to be a six book series so I really hope they don't become all repetitive cos that would suck.
March 1, 2023
Well, this book sucked. The first few chapters were pretty much all I needed to read to decide that I won’t continue this series, but I managed to finish it — barely. There had been so much potential here, and then the story took all the wrong turns. 🤷♀️
I hated the ‘plot twist’ that I’d seen coming a mile away. I hated the way everyone kept running in circles like headless chickens, repeating themselves, instead of talking things through like adults. I hated Edu and his ‘smash now, think later’ attitude. I hated the immaturity of it all! It’s like KAK couldn’t decide on her target audience when she wrote this, and tried to include both the prepubescent girls and the adults. Young teenagers might be thrilled with the end result, but this adult was not impressed.
Lydia… I just couldn’t stand her in this volume, not even because of her new superpowers and her annoying AF, fantastic beasts-inspired, illusory sidekick (even though their conversations made me think I was reading a children’s book, and I considered dnf-ing it several times for that reason alone). No, I’m talking about her personality. She’s supposedly such a strong-minded character — so logical! so assertive! — but all I saw was a naive, 28 going on 15 yo woman who couldn’t make up her own mind, so she all but put it to a vote. 🙄
I liked Aon. He was the only intelligent person here, and a ‘villain’ in name only. Poor guy. He really deserved someone better. 😞
I think I should also mention all the parallels between this series and KAK’s Maze of Shadows. Aside from the urban fantasy elements in The Masks of Under, MOS’s references to The Labyrinth, and a few minor differences, the main plotline of these two is basically one and the same. MOS was darker, with on-page violence and sex; TMOU has a definite YA feel to it, and all the mature bits are glossed-over. MOS’s Valroy was a real piece of work; TMOU’s Aon is a misunderstood sweetheart with a too quick mind and too much time on his hands. Both series would’ve been much improved by cutting out the internal yapping of the h, and a general tightening the plot. I found the ending of MOS very disappointing, and I can already see the signs this series will follow a similar path, so I’d rather quit now before I waste any more of my time.
I hated the ‘plot twist’ that I’d seen coming a mile away. I hated the way everyone kept running in circles like headless chickens, repeating themselves, instead of talking things through like adults. I hated Edu and his ‘smash now, think later’ attitude. I hated the immaturity of it all! It’s like KAK couldn’t decide on her target audience when she wrote this, and tried to include both the prepubescent girls and the adults. Young teenagers might be thrilled with the end result, but this adult was not impressed.
Lydia… I just couldn’t stand her in this volume, not even because of her new superpowers and her annoying AF, fantastic beasts-inspired, illusory sidekick (even though their conversations made me think I was reading a children’s book, and I considered dnf-ing it several times for that reason alone). No, I’m talking about her personality. She’s supposedly such a strong-minded character — so logical! so assertive! — but all I saw was a naive, 28 going on 15 yo woman who couldn’t make up her own mind, so she all but put it to a vote. 🙄
I liked Aon. He was the only intelligent person here, and a ‘villain’ in name only. Poor guy. He really deserved someone better. 😞
I think I should also mention all the parallels between this series and KAK’s Maze of Shadows. Aside from the urban fantasy elements in The Masks of Under, MOS’s references to The Labyrinth, and a few minor differences, the main plotline of these two is basically one and the same. MOS was darker, with on-page violence and sex; TMOU has a definite YA feel to it, and all the mature bits are glossed-over. MOS’s Valroy was a real piece of work; TMOU’s Aon is a misunderstood sweetheart with a too quick mind and too much time on his hands. Both series would’ve been much improved by cutting out the internal yapping of the h, and a general tightening the plot. I found the ending of MOS very disappointing, and I can already see the signs this series will follow a similar path, so I’d rather quit now before I waste any more of my time.
December 23, 2019
So. It's well written. But I can't help but feel muddled about the events that transpired and the reasoning behind it.
In short I think everyone in this is a bit witless and willfully blind. I'm also pissed at the way things have fallen. Mainly I'm pissed at Lydia.
I can't wrap my head around someone who forgives their lover after murdering their best friend. You've known one guy for a few weeks. The other has had your back and been like a brother for five years.
I get it. This world is different in morals and values. I get that it was prophesied. I also get that aon is painted out to be this tragic loveless figure who only wanted love. I get he did it thinking to save Lydia.
I don't get why this is fine and forgivable. I don't get why everyone is like 'whatevs go fuck the warlock already' and how this somehow isn't disrespectful to Nick who did everything in his power to protect her and be there for her. I don't get why romantic love and sex is being put above the love Nick had for Lydia even if it wasn't romantic. I don't get why this is fine because everyone dies eventually. There were choices here and the worst ones were made.
Yes aon is a tragic sympathetic creature. He's also a cruel torturer who gets off on hurting people in the worst ways. He also murdered innocent people, including Nick, because he wanted or thought he was right to do so.
Yes it's sad. Sometimes though the weight of what someone has done is greater than whatever humanity they may have left. Like serial killers. Bad childhood doesn't outweigh the suffering and death they caused.
And it's for this reason I don't think I'll be continuing the series.
There's one rule to remember folks, bros before murdering, genocidal, cruel, sociopathic hoes.
In short I think everyone in this is a bit witless and willfully blind. I'm also pissed at the way things have fallen. Mainly I'm pissed at Lydia.
I can't wrap my head around someone who forgives their lover after murdering their best friend. You've known one guy for a few weeks. The other has had your back and been like a brother for five years.
I get it. This world is different in morals and values. I get that it was prophesied. I also get that aon is painted out to be this tragic loveless figure who only wanted love. I get he did it thinking to save Lydia.
I don't get why this is fine and forgivable. I don't get why everyone is like 'whatevs go fuck the warlock already' and how this somehow isn't disrespectful to Nick who did everything in his power to protect her and be there for her. I don't get why romantic love and sex is being put above the love Nick had for Lydia even if it wasn't romantic. I don't get why this is fine because everyone dies eventually. There were choices here and the worst ones were made.
Yes aon is a tragic sympathetic creature. He's also a cruel torturer who gets off on hurting people in the worst ways. He also murdered innocent people, including Nick, because he wanted or thought he was right to do so.
Yes it's sad. Sometimes though the weight of what someone has done is greater than whatever humanity they may have left. Like serial killers. Bad childhood doesn't outweigh the suffering and death they caused.
And it's for this reason I don't think I'll be continuing the series.
There's one rule to remember folks, bros before murdering, genocidal, cruel, sociopathic hoes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 19, 2019
Lydia is resurrected as the new Queen of Dreams, but all is not solved quite yet. She doesn't know how to unlock her powers and in order to help her, Aon believes he must torture her. Their budding romance takes another hit when he fulfills a prophecy to complete the job. Once her powers are unlocked, the Void stops growing and Under begins to restore itself. Oh, and Edu still wants to kill her.
This book fulfilled my expectations to move the plot along. I mean, we knew Lydia wasn't dead - she's the MC of the series. I assumed she would come back with some power and she did. I also expected that once Aon and Lydia admitted their feelings toward one another that there would be something to jeopardize their happiness - Aon's actions to unlock her powers did just that. Now the question is, when will she forgive him? And can the rest of Under stop trying to kill her long enough to enjoy having their world restore itself? I'll be reading the next book to find out.
This book fulfilled my expectations to move the plot along. I mean, we knew Lydia wasn't dead - she's the MC of the series. I assumed she would come back with some power and she did. I also expected that once Aon and Lydia admitted their feelings toward one another that there would be something to jeopardize their happiness - Aon's actions to unlock her powers did just that. Now the question is, when will she forgive him? And can the rest of Under stop trying to kill her long enough to enjoy having their world restore itself? I'll be reading the next book to find out.
June 1, 2019
3.5*
This book felt a bit slower than the first 2. We got some more info on some of the players, our Queen of Dreams was dealt a tough blow....poor Aon
Looking forward to the next one.
Would love these on audio
This book felt a bit slower than the first 2. We got some more info on some of the players, our Queen of Dreams was dealt a tough blow....poor Aon
Looking forward to the next one.
Would love these on audio
July 1, 2019
Weekend Binge!
I'm having a nice quiet weekend catching up on The Masks Of Under series.
I love this world Kathryn Ann Kingsley has created. Her writing is always engrossing and her characters are beautiful.
August 10, 2020
Wow, this was a bit of a tear jerker.. hmmm but I'm still going to hold my opinion a little longer but I will say that this book was a little better then the first two.. Well off to book four.. Seems like I'm in the thick of things now!
Overall rating:
3.5 ~ I like it
Overall rating:
3.5 ~ I like it
May 26, 2019
"Welcome to Under, Cupcake. Where everything is creepy and the murder party's the best party because the murder party never stops. " - Q
Lydia awakens from her death to find she is no longer the lowly mortal plaything of Under. Now she is its immortal pawn in a game she has no understanding of.
Betrayed, lost and feeling at the end of her rope Lydia finds that door number one may not have been the best choice after all.
I know I said this previously but it bears repeating Lyd's is one kick arse heroine. When it gets to be too much she takes a step back and with the use of humor and sarcasm and the rarely used ability common sense (my favorite) she tackles the things that can be changed and well deals with that which can not.
After Aon lost Lydia he honed his pain and emptiness into a fine blade of anger he intended to wield in retribution.
But when Lydia awakens as the new queen he immediately fears for her safety. Having heard the oracle's prediction he believes what he is doing is the right thing for Lyd. He accepts that his actions may cost him the one thing he ever truly desired.
"All the wrong things for all the right reasons. "
I truly love his character even with his sadistic tendencies.
I had to step back a couple of times to dry my eyes. You would think to be a queen would have given her some semblance of power but her life is even more of a living nightmare than when she was merely a mortal for the residents of Under to toy with.
Can she see past the pain and betrayal that seems to cast darkness on her every breath?
And Edu ... I want to shred him limb from limb!
Nothing turns out as I hoped
Okay that isn't quite true - Q - I totally want my own Q
Kingsley once again takes the reader on a journey into one of the most vivid and colorful worlds that I have had the pleasure of visiting. A uniquely creative cast that endears and enrages.
If dark fantasy is your genre this is one series not to be missed!
Lydia awakens from her death to find she is no longer the lowly mortal plaything of Under. Now she is its immortal pawn in a game she has no understanding of.
Betrayed, lost and feeling at the end of her rope Lydia finds that door number one may not have been the best choice after all.
I know I said this previously but it bears repeating Lyd's is one kick arse heroine. When it gets to be too much she takes a step back and with the use of humor and sarcasm and the rarely used ability common sense (my favorite) she tackles the things that can be changed and well deals with that which can not.
After Aon lost Lydia he honed his pain and emptiness into a fine blade of anger he intended to wield in retribution.
But when Lydia awakens as the new queen he immediately fears for her safety. Having heard the oracle's prediction he believes what he is doing is the right thing for Lyd. He accepts that his actions may cost him the one thing he ever truly desired.
"All the wrong things for all the right reasons. "
I truly love his character even with his sadistic tendencies.
I had to step back a couple of times to dry my eyes. You would think to be a queen would have given her some semblance of power but her life is even more of a living nightmare than when she was merely a mortal for the residents of Under to toy with.
Can she see past the pain and betrayal that seems to cast darkness on her every breath?
And Edu ... I want to shred him limb from limb!
Nothing turns out as I hoped
Okay that isn't quite true - Q - I totally want my own Q
Kingsley once again takes the reader on a journey into one of the most vivid and colorful worlds that I have had the pleasure of visiting. A uniquely creative cast that endears and enrages.
If dark fantasy is your genre this is one series not to be missed!
July 27, 2019
4.5 totally absorbed stars.. Man I hope this series keeps up the momentum! So far it has just kept getting better and better. I think I had to break down and ask myself what is wrong with me several times. How can what Aon is doing be right?.. Why are we still so lost for him. Its so crazy how the righteous in this story is so obviously the bad guy. We have prophecies that have been told that our characters think they have thwarted but can anyone really thwart fate.. I believe that our characters have needlessly suffered because I feel like its fixing to get real down under..
Lydia has been awakened.. and is more than she was, but also the same. Fighting her fate down to the very last breath.. literally. Because she is unable to accept her new role she has heaped needless suffering on top of herself.. and who better than to give it to her but the lord of darkness himself. In his mind Aon must protect Lydia at all costs until she accepts her fate and unlocks her powers even if it means causing her pain. Meanwhile Edu continues to plot his vengeance not caring if extracting it means the end of under for everyone..
Not going to lie I'm so ready for Lydia to woman up, embrace her role, and unleash the beast on most of these people here. Embrace the madness, revel in it and then rule it!! Can't wait for book 4!
Lydia has been awakened.. and is more than she was, but also the same. Fighting her fate down to the very last breath.. literally. Because she is unable to accept her new role she has heaped needless suffering on top of herself.. and who better than to give it to her but the lord of darkness himself. In his mind Aon must protect Lydia at all costs until she accepts her fate and unlocks her powers even if it means causing her pain. Meanwhile Edu continues to plot his vengeance not caring if extracting it means the end of under for everyone..
Not going to lie I'm so ready for Lydia to woman up, embrace her role, and unleash the beast on most of these people here. Embrace the madness, revel in it and then rule it!! Can't wait for book 4!
May 31, 2019
Just give me the next damn book.
I thought this was a trilogy and that this was the last book. That honestly the only reason I started this in the first place. I HATE waiting.
Genuinely.
Sincerely.
HATE IT.
So just, have some mercy, give me the damn book. Or better yet just give me the three massive tomes these books were originally written as. I promise I'll be done in less than one working week.
Just-
In other news:
Q sounds so cute and I love his art on Kathryn's blog! So Hades-y and demon-y xD
How crazy does it make me, that I want a voice in my head that would talk back to me, huh? HUH?
As Nick so eloquently puts it, "This sucks!"
Fast on the track of becoming a favourite series, I need those next books! (There's three more FYI)
July 28, 2019
I galloped through this one.
A lot is going on. A lot. So much to unpack. But mainly, the main theme in this is that freaking Edu is a stupid dumbass. I can’t stand him. Like he’s sooooooooo blind to his own bias he can’t see the details. He messes everything up in this story. He’s super annoying.
But Aon is also wow. There’s so much. He’s definitely intelligent but crazy. Like for real. I can’t believe what he did, but I also can. I also suspect that he was wrong, and it was in reference to the red head.
This book has some swoon moments though in all its fucked up monster glory.
I may take a break or I might go onto the next one. I don’t know.
A lot is going on. A lot. So much to unpack. But mainly, the main theme in this is that freaking Edu is a stupid dumbass. I can’t stand him. Like he’s sooooooooo blind to his own bias he can’t see the details. He messes everything up in this story. He’s super annoying.
But Aon is also wow. There’s so much. He’s definitely intelligent but crazy. Like for real. I can’t believe what he did, but I also can. I also suspect that he was wrong, and it was in reference to the red head.
This book has some swoon moments though in all its fucked up monster glory.
I may take a break or I might go onto the next one. I don’t know.
January 10, 2020
After how much I loved the previous book, this one was a little disappointing. The pace has sped up, Edu is still an idiot and everyone else is playing both sides. I love both Lydia and Aon, but Lydia was a coward and Aon was on a lovesick overprotective streak. It was getting a little annoying, but I'm curious about the end so will continue. Q is great too.
Issues I had with this one:-
Nick - Did he mean so little to Lydia or does she love Aon that much.
Prophecy - No one has ever stopped a prophecy and they are so up vague. The friend part made me laugh. Nick died and Aon sent Lyon as a 'friend'. Then there is Evie.
It got stupid but its a whole world of monsters and forgiveness all around and that.
Issues I had with this one:-
Nick - Did he mean so little to Lydia or does she love Aon that much.
Prophecy - No one has ever stopped a prophecy and they are so up vague. The friend part made me laugh. Nick died and Aon sent Lyon as a 'friend'. Then there is Evie.
It got stupid but its a whole world of monsters and forgiveness all around and that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2019
This author consistently keeps on track a complex cast of characters and an evolving, intricate storyline that keeps unfolding with surprising twists and turns with each new addition to this series. Please keep in mind you do need to read these sequels in order. So if this book has caught your eye, do yourself a huge favor and backtrack to Book 1. You will need and want to get the whole picture of what is at play and stake here starting from the very beginning. The adversarial personalities yet symbiotic relationship between many of these Greek god like beings will need to be fully understood to appreciate the long term plot development.
Queen of Dreams continues this saga with two intermixed plots filled with drama, relationship angst, some graphic bloody scenes, along with quite a bit of distraught, inward reflection as we watch these key characters struggle with what has happened and their apprehension of their unknown future.
Isolation, fear, acceptance, denial, sacrificial love, a blind thirst for revenge/control, forgiveness, and even death face off here as this mythical world continues to spiral into uncertainty. Then just when things come to an expected explosive showdown, a whole new element is introduced that leads us directly into book 4, King of Blood.
As for the heroine, she’s found herself in an unimaginable new position. She’s come a long way, baby, especially since book 1. Her future and new unexpected role has placed her directly in the Jekyll and Hyde hands of an immortal dark soul many have dubbed the loveless. He certainly proves nothing or anyone will stand in his way of dealing out his master plan. Seriously, brace yourself for some very drastic, jaw dropping measures. Casualties and collateral damage are necessary evils he’ll take on regardless of the consequences. His at times gruesome actions may be disturbing to some.
In each book, the writing has flowed seamlessly. Surprisingly, each storyline has had a different undertone to it, despite a reoccurring main theme. I can’t wait to find out what happens next in The King of Blood.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: Queen of Dreams, Series: The Masks of Under (Book 3), Author: Kathryn Ann Kingsley, Pages: 282, not a stand-alone, must read books in order, some graphic violence, resilient heroine, no OW/OM drama, no cheating, no love triangle.
Book 1 - King of Flames
Book 2 - King of Shadows
Book 3 - Queen of Dreams
Book 4 - King of Blood
(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.)
Queen of Dreams continues this saga with two intermixed plots filled with drama, relationship angst, some graphic bloody scenes, along with quite a bit of distraught, inward reflection as we watch these key characters struggle with what has happened and their apprehension of their unknown future.
Isolation, fear, acceptance, denial, sacrificial love, a blind thirst for revenge/control, forgiveness, and even death face off here as this mythical world continues to spiral into uncertainty. Then just when things come to an expected explosive showdown, a whole new element is introduced that leads us directly into book 4, King of Blood.
As for the heroine, she’s found herself in an unimaginable new position. She’s come a long way, baby, especially since book 1. Her future and new unexpected role has placed her directly in the Jekyll and Hyde hands of an immortal dark soul many have dubbed the loveless. He certainly proves nothing or anyone will stand in his way of dealing out his master plan. Seriously, brace yourself for some very drastic, jaw dropping measures. Casualties and collateral damage are necessary evils he’ll take on regardless of the consequences. His at times gruesome actions may be disturbing to some.
In each book, the writing has flowed seamlessly. Surprisingly, each storyline has had a different undertone to it, despite a reoccurring main theme. I can’t wait to find out what happens next in The King of Blood.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: Queen of Dreams, Series: The Masks of Under (Book 3), Author: Kathryn Ann Kingsley, Pages: 282, not a stand-alone, must read books in order, some graphic violence, resilient heroine, no OW/OM drama, no cheating, no love triangle.
Book 1 - King of Flames
Book 2 - King of Shadows
Book 3 - Queen of Dreams
Book 4 - King of Blood
(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.)
May 28, 2019
It was okay
I think I had too high of an expectation for this book and was thinking it would take on a different route than what it did. I imagined action and drama and chaos was going to erupt after Lydia woke up from the pool of ancients but really it was more of a “stepping-stone” type of book introducing Lydia’s new powers and the different changes in Under with a new dream leader around. Some backstories on the characters and the reasons why the way they are etc. was in there as well. Which is kind of understandable as there are 6 books in the series but still I guess I wanted MORE.
We all knew about Aon and Lydia’s feelings for each other and for them to have the chance to finally be together again after our hearts were broken in the last book and to see how they don’t really take it bummed me out... i mean I get why, with the whole best friend thing that happened but their relationship to me just felt awkward after awhile and I kinda lost sight of their whole bond thing they had going for them in the first two books.
Also OMG Nicky 😭😭
The story kind of seemed like it was repeating over and over again. Lydia being scared, Aon protecting her, Edu wanting to kill Lydia (AGAIN) it was tiring and I got so excited to start reading about a new character developing (Rxa) that I almost screamed in frustration because by that time he was introduced in his white winged flurry the book was over... like whyyy?! Turns out the next book is why.
I am hoping the fourth book brings some more vava voom to the story especially in bringing back our favorite sassy, sarcastic, bada** Lydia and not the shadow of herself she was in this book. Edu drove me absolutely crazy so I’m hoping Rxa puts him in his place more often. I mean a girls can hope. Also weird side note - I don’t trust Evie so I’m keeping an eye out for that one. I think in the end Aon went for the wrong “friend”.
MY FAV HIGHLIGHT OF THE WHOLE BOOK: we finally know what our favorite baddie looks like! 🖤
So yeah waiting on book 4 with high hopes.
I think I had too high of an expectation for this book and was thinking it would take on a different route than what it did. I imagined action and drama and chaos was going to erupt after Lydia woke up from the pool of ancients but really it was more of a “stepping-stone” type of book introducing Lydia’s new powers and the different changes in Under with a new dream leader around. Some backstories on the characters and the reasons why the way they are etc. was in there as well. Which is kind of understandable as there are 6 books in the series but still I guess I wanted MORE.
We all knew about Aon and Lydia’s feelings for each other and for them to have the chance to finally be together again after our hearts were broken in the last book and to see how they don’t really take it bummed me out... i mean I get why, with the whole best friend thing that happened but their relationship to me just felt awkward after awhile and I kinda lost sight of their whole bond thing they had going for them in the first two books.
Also OMG Nicky 😭😭
The story kind of seemed like it was repeating over and over again. Lydia being scared, Aon protecting her, Edu wanting to kill Lydia (AGAIN) it was tiring and I got so excited to start reading about a new character developing (Rxa) that I almost screamed in frustration because by that time he was introduced in his white winged flurry the book was over... like whyyy?! Turns out the next book is why.
I am hoping the fourth book brings some more vava voom to the story especially in bringing back our favorite sassy, sarcastic, bada** Lydia and not the shadow of herself she was in this book. Edu drove me absolutely crazy so I’m hoping Rxa puts him in his place more often. I mean a girls can hope. Also weird side note - I don’t trust Evie so I’m keeping an eye out for that one. I think in the end Aon went for the wrong “friend”.
MY FAV HIGHLIGHT OF THE WHOLE BOOK: we finally know what our favorite baddie looks like! 🖤
So yeah waiting on book 4 with high hopes.
May 29, 2019
Okay, let's get started with the obvious that some will miss. Queen of Dreams is the 3rd book in The Masks of Under series, SO YOU MUST READ King of Flames (Book 1) and King of Shadows (Book 2) IN ORDER! Now that I got that out of the way, I'll get on with it. This book picks right back up where King of Shadows left off, and no, I'm say a word since there's a book description out, because there's a lot of detail that I'm not so clear about, don't want to give up any spoilers, and I just don't wanna. Kathryn Ann Kingsley has definitely amped up the series at this point, and I'm all in, but I'm pissed as all hell since it seems like she's just teasing me with the stories now. She gives me just enough to answer a few questions while adding 50 new ones. There's so many twists going on right now that my f-bombs are not only dropping, but they're spinning like crazy on the way down. A LOT of crazy happenings are going on in Under, with a crazy amount of drama between Kings, yeah, you heart me, Kings, not Queens, because "Who run the world, girls!" And there may or may not be a new player or two on the board. Then ANOTHER, and even BIGGER cliffy ending to try & kill me dead as I was pushed to be left hangin'. Obviously I'm not dead yet, although I'm dying inside a little bit more each new cliffy in this series. So yeah, that's all the rambling I got, and hopefully this evil genius author won't keep me waiting long for the next installment! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
May 21, 2019
Soul crushing. Emotional. Heartbreaking. Twisted. Demented. How can one book produce all those emotions? I've no idea, but it did. I've been waiting on pins and needles for Queen Of Dreams. King Of Shadows left us in such a way, that we truly needed to know more. More we learned. More we witnessed. More pain. More love. More schemes. More everything.
Kathryn Ann Kingsley has created a world so unique and complex that sometimes it blows my mind. I LOVE the subtle hints of mythology she throws in Under. I love everything about this series. The writing and world keep me up late reading and wanting more. The characters are so complex and original. I'm lost in this world and loving every bit of this series.
Lydia has become what she feared. Yet she proves over and over why she was chosen to carry this burden. Aon must do all he can to protect Lydia, even if that means turning her against him. Edu is so blinded by hate and rage that he can see the facts staring at him in the face. I feel a war on the horizon, yet I'm scared what it means for each and everyone.
Queen Of Dreams went way above my expectations. I am already salivating for more. **I recommend reading these in order as they are NOT standalones**
Kathryn Ann Kingsley has created a world so unique and complex that sometimes it blows my mind. I LOVE the subtle hints of mythology she throws in Under. I love everything about this series. The writing and world keep me up late reading and wanting more. The characters are so complex and original. I'm lost in this world and loving every bit of this series.
Lydia has become what she feared. Yet she proves over and over why she was chosen to carry this burden. Aon must do all he can to protect Lydia, even if that means turning her against him. Edu is so blinded by hate and rage that he can see the facts staring at him in the face. I feel a war on the horizon, yet I'm scared what it means for each and everyone.
Queen Of Dreams went way above my expectations. I am already salivating for more. **I recommend reading these in order as they are NOT standalones**
May 28, 2019
5 stars
So, so happy I've found this series. It. Is. Damn. Good.
To make it easy for you,
If you like original and interesting new worlds,
If you like strong and funny main characters,
If you like fucked-up things,
And most importantly if you like romance where the love interest is a tortured anti-hero and kind of evil,
Then happy reading.
(if not, then I kinda' feel bad for you because you'll never know just how awesome these books are)
So, so happy I've found this series. It. Is. Damn. Good.
To make it easy for you,
If you like original and interesting new worlds,
If you like strong and funny main characters,
If you like fucked-up things,
And most importantly if you like romance where the love interest is a tortured anti-hero and kind of evil,
Then happy reading.
(if not, then I kinda' feel bad for you because you'll never know just how awesome these books are)
June 13, 2019
Really good lead female character
This whole series is interesting. The world it resides in is unique and ingenious. I really like how the lead female character is written. Often they're not a realistic mix, meaning even strong women have doubts, fears, etc. A lot of authors missed that or go in the other direction where you want to strangle the women for being such a cliche. Can't wait for the next one.
This whole series is interesting. The world it resides in is unique and ingenious. I really like how the lead female character is written. Often they're not a realistic mix, meaning even strong women have doubts, fears, etc. A lot of authors missed that or go in the other direction where you want to strangle the women for being such a cliche. Can't wait for the next one.
May 29, 2019
So much love
What can I say. I'm a gluten for punishment. The feels are too much. Q is my new best friend and I need book four yesterday.
What can I say. I'm a gluten for punishment. The feels are too much. Q is my new best friend and I need book four yesterday.
Read
September 12, 2024DNF. Too much plot when I was here for the sex.
May 31, 2019
This is the third installment in The Masks of Under series and it does not disappoint! My favorite book in the series so far!
This book starts right where the second book ends and just grabs your heart. I had to sit down and just process everything that happened before I could write this. Kathryn Kingsley has already proven that she can create an amazing and interesting world with characters that you care about. She really adds depth for Aon in this one though. His emotional range is so much deeper than you are originally led to believe. On the other side of that though is Edu. I don’t think he can get past his grudge with Aon, no matter what it will cost. I get tired of his one-track mind.
As long as Kathryn continues the series as she’s written the previous books, I have no doubt that The Mask of Under will become one of my favorite series!
This book starts right where the second book ends and just grabs your heart. I had to sit down and just process everything that happened before I could write this. Kathryn Kingsley has already proven that she can create an amazing and interesting world with characters that you care about. She really adds depth for Aon in this one though. His emotional range is so much deeper than you are originally led to believe. On the other side of that though is Edu. I don’t think he can get past his grudge with Aon, no matter what it will cost. I get tired of his one-track mind.
As long as Kathryn continues the series as she’s written the previous books, I have no doubt that The Mask of Under will become one of my favorite series!
June 7, 2019
I absolutely am in love with this series. I am a very particular reader and I struck gold with these books. I'm not ashamed to say that I finished the three books in one day. I love the relationship between Aon and Lydia, even though he has a really dark side she still accepts him, I get tired of reading some of these books and the girl will whine and want to change the love interest the whole book. She understands that even though he killed Nick it was because he was trying to save her. The book concept is also refreshing, I liked how she switched it up, that mythological creatures from earth derived from Under. The masks are cool too, the suspense was killing me to know what Aon looked like, and the "unveiling" scene did not disappoint. My ONLY complaint is that I wish the books were longer haha. I CANNOT wait until the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2019
Simply Epic
Seriously, this book and continuation of this series was simply epic! I absolutely loved it! I finished book two last night and went on to click book three not realizing it wasn't a complete series yet and I about three a tantrum like a toddler denied treats when I released it wasn't released yet... never mind the fact that it was just hours away, I was seriously disgruntled lol Lydia's character is amazeballs, I love her sass and humor so much. Aon is all misunderstood, Edu is a whole bag of d*cms and now I wanna cry that I have to wait for the next release (insert all the tears here) Definitely recommend this series!
Seriously, this book and continuation of this series was simply epic! I absolutely loved it! I finished book two last night and went on to click book three not realizing it wasn't a complete series yet and I about three a tantrum like a toddler denied treats when I released it wasn't released yet... never mind the fact that it was just hours away, I was seriously disgruntled lol Lydia's character is amazeballs, I love her sass and humor so much. Aon is all misunderstood, Edu is a whole bag of d*cms and now I wanna cry that I have to wait for the next release (insert all the tears here) Definitely recommend this series!
May 29, 2019
Another WOW
Holy cow this book was good... and heartbreaking at the same time. The pain inflicted upon both Lydia and Aon pulled all the heart strings. I cannot wait for the next book to see what happens next and find out more about our newly awoken King of Blood. And fingers crossed some happier times for our main couple. Aon needs his HEA. Even though he does terrible things in this book you still feel for him.
Holy cow this book was good... and heartbreaking at the same time. The pain inflicted upon both Lydia and Aon pulled all the heart strings. I cannot wait for the next book to see what happens next and find out more about our newly awoken King of Blood. And fingers crossed some happier times for our main couple. Aon needs his HEA. Even though he does terrible things in this book you still feel for him.
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