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Forgotten City #1

Monstrous Lies

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Thirty years ago the world as we know it was lost. Now humans live like rats, desperate for food and safety, the wall towering before us as a mocking reminder of what happened…

The wall that keeps the monsters locked away from us. The wall that keeps us safe.

The wall that every day I sneak through.

I thought I was safe in the light beyond it’s scarred concrete, I thought I knew the way of the world, but when night falls and I’m trapped beyond the wall the monsters come out to play. In an explosion of shadows, claws and tails. Their black eyes tracking me like prey until he comes.

Their leader… and he claims I'm his.

I play along, I bide my time, but as past and present collide I find my carefully laid survival plan unravelling. The secrets the monsters keep making me realise the wall might not be to contain the monsters inside, but to keep the truth from getting out.

But in that Forgotten City I find my purpose, my future. All the Monstrous Lies we were told coming unravelled and when they do sides must be chosen. Loyalties will be tested and the darkness might claim us all.

*Monstrous Lies is the first book in the Forgotten City Series, all the books feature different characters but to fully enjoy the series I suggest reading the series in order.*

373 pages, Hardcover

Published November 15, 2022

513 people are currently reading
1272 people want to read

About the author

K.A. Knight

94 books12.7k followers
K.A Knight is a Romance author from a little town in England. She writes the monsters you love to hate. The crazier the better.

She loves her fur babies, coffee and a good book. Katie also has an obsession with monster flicks, and plans to re-watch them all!

Facebook Reader Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/Katie...

Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/KatieKnightA...

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/katieknight...

http://eepurl.com/drLLoj

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Profile Image for Ꮗ€♫◗☿ ❤️ ilikebooksbest.com ❤️.
2,944 reviews2,673 followers
September 6, 2023
Man made monsters!



The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💙💚💜❤️
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌍🌎
Character development: 😟🙁☺️😍
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Dual Narration

The heroine: Aria - sixteen years ago, she was all alone in the world, tired and hungry, she was chased by a man who grabbed her when she was resting on the streets. She is not supposed to go on the other side of the wall, though she sees a hole in the wall to the abandoned city that she can fit through that he can’t. She sees orange eyes before passing out.

The Story: Sixteen years later, Aria’s job is a dangerous one. Thirty years ago, a war raged through the streets between the monsters and the humans. Until the humans figured out that they couldn’t win, so they abandoned the city and constructed a wall to keep the monsters within the city limits and keep the humans on the other side, hoping the monsters would starve. Every now and then they send people to check on the monsters, though once they go over the wall they are never seen again.

Though Aria regularly goes through to the other side of the wall. She gets orders for certain things and goes into the city during the daylight hours and gets those items and charges a premium for them. This stops her from ending up in a pleasure house like many girls her age. At night, they can hear the noises that come from the other side of the wall. Grunts, snorts and growls abound at night. It is when the monsters come out.

The Hero: Akuji - when Aria agrees to show a rich girl named Talia through the city, Akuji tracks them as they go through the city. He has seen Aria come into the city before and is obsessed with her bravery. He is the leader of the horde, and he protects her from afar. When Daria and her charge get caught in the city after dark, they are chased by animals and monsters. They separate and Daria ends up hurt in the middle of the city after dark. Akuji rescues her and claims her as his.

You can tell from the beginning that the place Talia wants to go in the city and retrieve research information is going to be at the center of how the monsters came to be. As soon as they arrive at that building Akuji mentions that is where he and his horde were created and kept until they escaped and rebelled.

I have to say, I like Akuji. He was a bit of a stalker at first, but I liked that he watched Aria and was impressed by her. He didn’t realize how attracted he was to her, since she wasn’t one of his people, but he liked how courageous and adventurous she was. Though it wasn’t long after he saves her that he starts really feeling things for her. The romance between them was great and like with all K.A. Knight books, the intimate scenes got plenty steamy.

The world building was pretty good as the city with the monsters has three groups of them, one is the warriors, one is the thinkers and the third is the group of more feral monsters who have given in to their inner beasts more than the other two groups. However, when the people outside the walls threaten them, the three groups come together.

I also like the fact that there ends up being three women inside the walls, one ends up with each of the three groups. Talia ends up with the leader of the thinkers and a third woman came through the wall saying she was going to be killed by her people because of what she knew about the monsters. She ends up with the mad king because the feral group was guarding the walls at the time.

This audiobook was told in dual points of view via dual narration. It was narrated by Tor Thom and Kasi Hollowell. Tor Thom is one of my favorite male narrators, his voice is super deep, and he sounds like a huge guy. His voice is perfect for a monster or an alien male. Kasi Hollowell sounds youthful, and she has a clear voice which is very pleasant.

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Profile Image for Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾.
2,313 reviews13.7k followers
Read
September 4, 2022
DNF at 34%
I think I may have let my expectations get the best of me with this one. A dystopian monster romance? DELICIOUS. But this was sadly just not for me. It was weirdly...fluffy, and I just couldn't connect to the characters for the life of me. Granted the insta thing may have had a bit to do with that, because I'm not an insta anything reader, so that didn't add to the appeal. I'm sure many will love this, I just don't think I was the reader for this one sadly.

No rating since I didn't finish
Profile Image for abbey willcox.
409 reviews23 followers
August 26, 2022
“It’s not the monsters beyond the wall I fear —
It’s the ones I live alongside.”

Akuji AKA Red, is the most dangerous , hottest, horniest 😉 (pun intended), panty melting, alpha monster i have come across! Do you like your monsters FIERCELY protective? Red is your monster 😍 he would literally rip anyone apart that would harm his human, Aria. I couldn’t stop laughing when Aria told him raw meat could make her sick, his reaction was hysterical 😂😂 as if it was going to jump of the plate and attack her. Aria is a badass from page one, I love her and was engrossed going on this epic adventure with her, I was honestly hooked from the first page. I couldn’t wait to see where KA Knight was taking us with this world of monsters and romance. Although, in my opinion. The real monsters aren’t the ones with big red horns, but the very being you see when you look in the mirror. Humans. Us.

“My people know their mate, their soul, when their eyes meet. I know your soul, Aria, and it belongs with mine.” - SWOON!! Red I adore you!!! 🥰🥰.


“You have the heart of a monster — strong, sure, loyal and fearless.”


Omfg 🤣😭 when Red asks Cato if he wants to date 😂😂 I haven’t laughed so hard in ages. If you know, you know 🥹😂❤️

This book is FULL ON action packed!! It doesn’t stop start till finish, it’s honestly brilliant. Back to Red… can we talk about his FORKED Tongue?! And the tail?! The things this monster does had me feeling HOTTT!! 🥵🥵 for real, the spice in this book is 10/10. I’m in love with red. Yes, I love a monster. And yes, I HATE humans!! They literally disgust me in this book…. Ohhhh and of course the tiger needs a shout out too, how cool though?! Again, if you know, you know 😉 and if you don’t? Well, what are you waiting for. Start reading!! Curiosity never killed this monster 😉😂
Profile Image for Intel Chicky Reads Romance (Kara Merideth).
2,251 reviews1,525 followers
November 6, 2022
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: dystopian
Angst: 😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥

Really enjoyed the storyline. Tons of action and super engaging from page one. Loved how they had met as children and he was tracking her their entire lives. Totally kick butt heroine with a hero that appreciates her for the fighter she is. The writing style doesn't resonate with me as much as I'd like, but the plot is so engaging, I know ill be coming back for more. I have a feeling the the books all run concurrently to this timeline, so ill be interested in how the author keeps everything fresh. Love the cover.

⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes be spoilers
Profile Image for Mandyloves2read.
1,763 reviews174 followers
August 29, 2022
This was a excellent monster PNR romance! I loved the characters the unique story was intriguing it’s dark dangerous and everything I love about this authors storytelling the world building is amazing I was completely transported to a different world with her descriptions and her writing this was a phenomenal story I can’t wait for the next book already!
Profile Image for Kelly Eudy.
326 reviews203 followers
August 20, 2022
10/10⭐️
5/5🔥

MF/dual POV/stand-alone/dystopian/pnr/monsters/tails&horns😉/mates/strong FMC/HEA

Monstrous Lies is the first book in the new Forgotten City series which will feature different couples, but still best read in order.

Thirty years ago, a wall was constructed to keep monstrous beast inside while all the humans were moved outside of the wall. Aria is from the slums where she does what she can to survive. She earns her ‘living’ [if you can call it that] by hunting down/retrieving lost and rare items and bringing them back to a collector for money. When she is asked to escort a research scientist, Talia, inside the wall, and she cant pass up the opportunity for the extra money. She’s to take Talia over the wall to retrieve old research files from the government research facility in the heart of the city. Aria usually sticks to the outer parts of the forgotten city but she knows as long as they make it back before dark, when the monsters come out to play, they should be fine.

Akuji is the leader of his people, his fellow monsters. Even though they are split into three territories, as the leader of the warrior territory, he is the biggest and the strongest. He has watched over Aria every day that she comes over the wall.. or technically under it. He cannot understand his obsession with her but he will protect her at all cost. When Aria comes through with someone else in tow, when she’s only ever come alone, he becomes more curious and follows her a little closer then he normally would. It’s just a matter of time before he will have to make his presence known anyways..he has to have her. He could imagine having anyone else as a mate.

After a shocking first meeting between Aria and Akuji, he takes her back to his refuge. She feels the same strong, overwhelming chemistry between them that he does and she can’t ignore. However, Akuji’s people no longer trust the humans and they do not find Aria’s presence in their home accommodating. As she spends more time with them they begin to see she’s not like the other humans. When she starts to hear the story of how the city fell from their side… the ‘monsters’ side…she really begins to question everything she thought she knew. Not to mention whatever may be found on the drive she and Talia were risking their lives to retrieve… maybe the monsters aren’t inside the wall after all…

For the love of monsters!! I loved everything about this book. Katie never ceases to blow me away with her plots and world building..but her smexyy scenes… lawddd have mercy! Now add in a tail and makeshift handlebars [horns 😈] Jesus..🥵🥵 Hello literal monster D. 🍆 Akuji was ensnared in everything that was Aria from the day he first laid eyes on her. He was extremely obsessive, possessive and protective, even though he knew Aria was a just as capable of a warrior as himself. [not to mention the giant fur baby that decides to adopt Aria 🐯😂] I love how the human/monster lifestyles and languages were portrayed. Aria explaining human slang to Akuji was very entertaining. I can’t wait to follow up with the next book!

-ARC Review-
Profile Image for FS Meurinne.
Author 2 books134 followers
August 26, 2022
This book is fantastic, the characters are amazing, the world-building is phenomenal, I enjoyed this so much, Red and Aria's story was everything I like in a good PNR. Aria is a strong heroine, and Red, I love this monster so much, they are perfect for each other, so broken yet they fit perfectly. The plot twists and rollercoaster ride this book gave me was brilliant. I need more, so much more, bring on the next one!



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Profile Image for Trip .
904 reviews30 followers
never-finished
April 22, 2025
DNF @ Pg 109, 36%

Honestly this book had a lot of potential and the world building is especially stunning, the desperation of humans & monsters. The wall, the slums, the dystopian and the remnants of the cities left over.

I was in awe at the start as the world comes to life on the page, as Aria explores and leads Talia. The details were incredible and the way animals have remained from the zoos & wildlife, scavenging among the wastes. Some great action scenes to start with the tigers and Aria comes across as a strong FMC which I adore.

Sadly the guy MC was rather flat for me, his personality seemed to depend on if he was with her or not. With her it's just pure lust and obsession with her, when among his people his supposedly some strong leader.

I don't know things just seemed to go down hill once these two officially meet/agree to work together. Aria randomly taming a Tiger, where did she find the meat? The food available among his people, yet things have been gone in the wastes - whose producing/creating this food. Raw meat was literally the only thing that made sense...

Also just started feeling very pushy with the list between them, connection felt forced and just rather disappointing. Since they were more interesting when just growing, getting to know each other.

The differences humans & monsters, history and truth - their cultures and fears. Sadly the fact he basically states he only likes her, hates the rest of the humans yet not given same opportunity as her.

Aria is quick to accept monsters, but that seemed fitting considering the way been treated by her own so she finds comfort in the wastelands.

Overall I'm just not invested in reading any further currently, as lost my interest. There's some great writing here though, just wasn't for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for dragonfly.
143 reviews2 followers
August 30, 2022
1,5/5
This gave me strong blue babarian vibes. It was a bit boring, some inconsistencies confused me and Red just was not my kind of guy.
Profile Image for Bryony .
610 reviews
June 29, 2023
DNF. He didn’t know what that term “fuck off” means in a non literal sense but he knows the term “badass” completely ruined my immersion.
Profile Image for Chelsie Lucas.
1,073 reviews22 followers
October 5, 2022
Is there anything KA Knight writes that I dont instantly love ??
No.
Is this a slightly fluffy read compared to her usual.
Yes.
Do I still love it. ??
HELL YEAH!!

I really like this world and am excited to see where it goes !!
Profile Image for dais.
851 reviews95 followers
August 25, 2022
❤️🔥ARC REVIEW🔥❤️
Release- August 26th
Pre Order- https://books2read.com/MonstrousLies

when I say I love everything that Katie writes… I mean I am BALLS DEEP in love with EVERYTHING that she writes!!!!
this was absolutely incredible.
it’s official, I’m in love with a seven foot, horned red monster. Red is a flirty, possessive, crazy, blood thirsty monster that will do absolutely anything for his human. I mean he will destroy anyone and everything to protect her.
He is also an absolute sex god, he is 100% a giver. I mean holy flipping hell that monster has magic monster dick or something.
Aria is a queen in every sense of the word. I love her strength and her huge heart. She’ll do anything to fight and protect the ones she loves and even more so she cares for the innocent and will move mountains to make sure they don’t get hurt. I adore her relationship with Red, they found their love, their home, their mate and their comfort in each other. one human and one monster but both broken and hurt by the disgusting treatment of humans.
My jaw was on the floor from those plot twists. Humans truly are the monsters in this world. It broke my heart learning about the disgusting things they’ve done to other humans and monsters. How could they be so cruel? How could they be so selfish? How could they be so destructive and careless of so many human/monster lives? That shit baffled me and reading about the awful ways they treated the monsters made me stomach turn.
That ending!!!! Omfg I knew it would end on a fat cliffhanger but fuck me I need book two RIGHT NOW. I am so bloody ready for it. I cannot wait to read what happens next!!!
Profile Image for Courtney.
1,312 reviews195 followers
September 5, 2022
Monstrous Lies

I Give this Book a 4/5 Star Rating.

HEA(?): Yes
Relationship Type: MF
Romance: 4/5
Heat: 3.5/5
Pacing: Mid
Drama: 4/5
Suspense: 3.5-4/5

I really enjoyed this book, loved the bonus scene! I hope there will me more books in this world! 😃
This series somewhat reminds me of a reverse Attack on Titan and I just devoured this! The concept of this universe is absolutely addictive!
Profile Image for Erika.
199 reviews7 followers
September 4, 2022
ARC Review

“𝐋𝐞𝐭 𝐦𝐞 𝐠𝐨!” 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬. “𝐒𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐝? 𝐍𝐨,” 𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐭. “𝐍𝐨𝐰 𝐠𝐨 𝐥𝐢𝐞 𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐚 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐠𝐢𝐫𝐥.”

Once again KA proves why she one of my favourites! Monstrous Lies is such a strong first book in this series. I loved the dystopian world, the fantasy romance and of course the hot monster smutt🥵

The story is filled with action until the very end, I love a good action fantasy. On top of the fact it had some comical moments! It kept me on edge and I was hooked from the first sentence!

And can we talk about how HOT Akuji (Red) is😮‍💨 This Alpha monster is to DIE for. His tail, horns and FORKED tongue 🥵🧎🏻‍♀️Aria is one lucky lady.

“𝐈’𝐦 𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐡 𝐨𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮, 𝐀𝐫𝐢𝐚, 𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐨𝐮𝐛𝐭𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐞𝐲𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧. 𝐈 𝐰𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐡 𝐨𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐢𝐬 𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐥𝐥, 𝐰𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮?”

As usual the smutt is phenomenal! Red’s dirty talk🤤😮‍💨 had me melting into a puddle. I loved Aria and Red together, such a perfect couple. I cannot wait for the next book in this series!

“𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞, 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐧𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐈 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐩𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐭. 𝐊𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐝𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈 𝐦𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐞𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐦𝐞.”
Profile Image for Krista.
78 reviews2 followers
August 20, 2022
The only thing that could be better then Katie coming out with a new book is Katie doing a monster book! Girl had me unlocking whole new things i didn't know about myself with this one. ☠️ The mix of these two completely different worlds was intriguing to watch unfold and I loved every minute. All I'm gonna say is horns, tails and a bonus scene that had me confusingly turned on 😂 just order it and enjoy that's it! Lol


Blurb
Thirty years ago the world as we know it was lost. Now humans live like rats, desperate for food and safety, the wall towering before us as a mocking reminder of what happened…

The wall that keeps the monsters locked away from us. The wall that keeps us safe.

The wall that every day I sneak through.

I thought I was safe in the light beyond it’s scarred concrete, I thought I knew the way of the world, but when night falls and I’m trapped beyond the wall the monsters come out to play. In an explosion of shadows, claws and tails. Their black eyes tracking me like prey until he comes.

Their leader… and he claims I'm his.

I play along, I bide my time, but as past and present collide I find my carefully laid survival plan unravelling. The secrets the monsters keep making me realise the wall might not be to contain the monsters inside, but to keep the truth from getting out.

But in that Forgotten City I find my purpose, my future. All the Monstrous Lies we were told coming unravelled and when they do sides must be chosen. Loyalties will be tested and the darkness might claim us all.

*Monstrous Lies is the first book in the Forgotten City Series, all the books feature different characters but to fully enjoy the series I suggest reading the series in order.*
Profile Image for Gabby (La Romantica).
297 reviews23 followers
August 27, 2022
This is for all of you who enjoy smutty monster romances where the MC falls in love before the FMC.

The series' first book, Forgotten City, follows some decadent Monster Alpha Males. You’ll learn about the story's plot and main characters in this first volume, which is also packed with a lot of spicy situations.

You'll fall in love with Akuji, who has been in love with Aria ever since he first saw her a very long time ago. Whereas we all know he was establishing his claim, he was secretly fascinated with her and stalking her to protect her.

So read this story if you enjoy possessive Monster Romances.
Profile Image for Naurarwen.
1,022 reviews8 followers
September 21, 2022
I do love a good monster romance and this is definitely one of them. Lots of action and a healthy dose of steam left me turning every page wanting more about Aria and Red. Aria is a human living in the slums, she does what she can to keep a roof over her head even if that means venturing inside the wall that keeps all the monsters away.

Red or Akuji, which is his real name is one of those monsters, but what if he isn’t as bad as the humans outside the wall who treat Aria like scum.

Really enjoyed the world and characters that the author, K.A Knight created and can’t wait to see what more there is to come in the future and this world.
Profile Image for Rachelle .
617 reviews51 followers
August 23, 2022
I loved the plot of this story. It gave off post apocalypse vibes. The real monsters were not who you'd think.

This is everything you'd expect out of a monster romance and more!

Aria and Akuji are the best. Their chemistry was fantastic; they were such a power couple! And that spice was next level! I loved how Aria found safety, strength and family amongst the monsters she was meant to fear. It was such a beautiful part of the story.

This was such a captivating story and had me hooked from the first page. The world building was fantastic! The plot, the action, the spice and romance, just all of it was perfectly done!
Profile Image for Sharon.
873 reviews10 followers
August 21, 2022
description

First of all thank you to WordSmith Publicity for providing me with an ARC of this book!

Katie is always an instant buy for me, no matter what she writes. So getting an ARC of her newest upcoming release is just such an amazing opportunity.

Let me start by saying that the monster genre is a fairly new one for me. I, obviously, have a ton of them on my TBR, but I haven't really ventured into those unfamiliar grounds. So this was as interesting for me as it would be for any new monster readers.

I'll try to keep this review as brief as possible. I don't think I can talk about much of the contents inside this book without spoiling important things, and we obviously don't want that.

Also, I normally annotate my ARC's, so I have some quotes to use later, but I was so sucked into the story that I didn't annotate until chapter 13. But hey, that's a good thing!


Imagine the world being split apart by a wall. Your whole life you see nothing but that wall. You can't go over it, you can't go near it. It's just there. Monsters live behind those walls, even though you've never seen one. Monsters live inside these walls as well, different monsters, but still monsters nonetheless.

But one day you find a way outside of those walls. You find there's a life beyond those walls and often venture into the destroyed city. The city were all of the destruction happened, years and years ago.

You don't stay after dark, you won't, you can't. That's when the monsters come out to play.


Imagine those monster behind those walls aren't the monsters people claim them to be. They might be red skinned, horned and have a tail sweeping behind them. But are they really the monsters the people claim them to be?

Aria is on a mission, it's different than her normal jobs. This time she's not alone. Although.. Is she ever really alone in the city beyond the walls?



❝You'll always have the truth from me, little human, even if you don't like it. Lies hurt worse than the stab of truthfulness.❞



This story is filled to the brim with action, strength, love and sex. If you've read any of Katie's books before, you know what to expect. Add in a monstrous mate and you got your hands full. Literally.

Akuji has a way with words. Like damn. I'm used to MMC's and their dirty talk, but this monster takes it to a whole other level. He's obsessed with Aria. We're talking OBSESSED, guys. Like slapping-my-chest-like-a-maniac-and-roaring-every-chance-I-get.



❝This is what being a mate means, Aria. That is why I fight, because letting you go would mean destroying myself.❞



It was extremely refreshing to have some characters who weren't ruined by human ways. They don't lie, they don't cheat. They're straight to the point, upfront and not afraid to say what they want, how they want it and when they want it. I. LOVED. IT.

These side characters? Amazing. They all have their own personality, and I really hope we'll see some of them in future books.

I hate that I can't talk about everything that happens in this book, because I HAVE THOUGHTS. There's so much going on, so much action (yes, inside and out side the nest). I couldn't put this down, I just had to know what would happen next.

The sole reason why this wasn't a 5-star read for me was because Aria was just a tad bit annoying. Like, this girl grew up poorer than poor, mistreated and unloved. And she still thinks 'I should return to the city behind the walls, back to the humans'. Bitch, what? You got a freaking mate, who is head over heels in love with you and worships the ground you walk on. (He also has a big dick and a freaking tail????) Why you thinking like that?!

That being said... She proved herself and I'm 100% back on team Aria and Akuji. She really went through some amazing character growth, so all is forgiven. Kind of. Yeah.

I'm extremely excited for the next book. Katie created an amazing world with a great storyline and extremely lovable and interesting characters.


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Profile Image for Joy  Avery.
1,309 reviews159 followers
September 12, 2022
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆    Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶

Angst: 💣💣💣     Plot: 📚📚📚📚📚

Cliffhanger? ❌️

Tropes: fantasy, monster romance, dark

Thirty years ago, the world as we knew it was lost. Now humans live like rats, desperate for food and safety. Now a wall separates humans from monsters. Aria sneaks through every day to find items lost to time by humans. Then her task on the other side takes too long and she becomes trapped. As the sun sets, the monsters come out to play and watch her every move with claws and tails showing. When their leader, Akiji or "Red" steps out, he claims she's his. Soon she realizes the wall was built to keep secrets from getting out. In the Forgotten City, she finds purpose and her future with Red. Lies will unravel and sides will be chosen. Loyalties are tested and darkness may claim everyone. 

This was one hot as hell read! I haven't read a lot of monster romance and I really need to change that. This author put in epic world building, action-packed scenes, the ultimate alpha male and some seriously hot scenes. If you love monster romance, then you really need this book in your life. This is my honest opinion, freely given. 
64 reviews1 follower
March 21, 2025
Podium audio through audible. Narrators: Kasi Hallowell and Tor Thom.

Great narrators that suck you into this dystopian monster romance in an instant with the badass FMC Aria and her struggles in this torn and dark dystopian world with monsters.
Aria is the FMC and Akuji (Red) is the MMC.

The plot is fast-paced with non-stop action that sucks you in and throw you a few mouth dropping moments and what in the F-moments also. Aria is an awesome kickass FMC that doesn't fall head over heels for the MMC(Akuji/Red) without some trust and time. 

We also get to meet some side-characters like sunny, Talia and Kaido. There is action, there is suspense, mystery and some major cultural differences between the Aria and Akuji/Red. And you realize that sometimes the monsters you think you know might not be who or what you thought!

Looking forward to the next installment with eagerness!
Profile Image for ❀ Crystal ✿ -  PEACE ☮ LOVE ♥ BOOKS .
2,532 reviews308 followers
January 8, 2023
This book reminded me a lot of the movie Doomsday-with just as much blood and action but a whole lot more monster smut and politics. After a crazy outbreak in the city that releases monsters, the humans build a wall to separate themselves. The two sides do not integrate, yet heroine Aria is one of few who’ve crossed the barrier and lived to tell the tale. Arias sort of an anomaly having crossed to the ‘other side’ countless times, unknown to her something or someone has made sure she’s stayed safe. With a lot of money on the line Aria is tasked with safely bringing someone right into monster central further than she’s explored before. Not only will she be entering new and unknown territory, the safety she’s known for years quickly turns to smoke.

Aria was an easy heroine to root for. She’s brave in the face of danger, even when shaking in her shoes. Something about the monster King appeals to her from the start and the two are not shy on testing the boundaries of their relationship. He’s a big burly obsessed alpha male whose all in from the start. Things do move rather fast and the book doesn’t take place over much time but there’s still a whole lot of unknowns that I’m sure will be answered as the series goes on. We do get a HEA for these two but there’s a bunch of human/monster politics creating chaos for them all still unanswered. I’m not surprised the humans were the bad guys in this book and they will likely start a war, hopefully the monsters can find some way to live in peace without stupid humans trying to control and use them.
Profile Image for Wealie.
433 reviews48 followers
December 19, 2025
3.5 stars - I liked the world building, but felt the characterisation was a little paint by numbers and the female protagonist did a lot of back and forth wavering that was a bit annoying and ham fistedly written.

It was nice to see a 'monstrous' love interest that actually cared about his human love interest's autonomy and made it clear that whilst he wanted her to stay, it was always her choice and didn't ever see her staying as a done deal, even after they had sex, until she said the words openly.

Ends on a mild cliff hanger for the wider series plot, but closes out the love story between the protagonist and her monster mate. I'm invested enough in the wider story that I will finish out the trilogy.
Profile Image for Rebecca Carsley.
534 reviews8 followers
August 30, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review

Katie Knight has definitely done it again!! Another phenomenal book to add to the collection. I absolutely love her creative mind and the dystopian worlds she creates for us to get lost in. I have yet to read a book by her that I have not fallen in love with. Every character she brings to life are always perfect and her couples are always perfectly matched.

This is Aria and Akuji’s story and it is fantastic. What’s left of society has closed themselves off from the larger city by building a wall to keep the alien creatures out. But what the government has failed to mention is that they are the ones responsible for the monsters that lurk on the other side of the wall. Aria struggles from day to day to belong, she works odd jobs finding things to keep from being used for other unsavory purposes like most other women from her part of the city. The only place Aria truly feels at home and at peace is when she’s in the monsters domain. Sent to help a scientist retrieve data from the other side of the wall she ends up meeting a monster face to face. Akuji I is the Leader of his clan and has been obsessed with Aria for a very long time and when they finally meet escaping a tiger attack their chemistry is instant.

This story will have you feeling all sorts of emotions and have you on the edge of your seat when things get intense and stressful for our main characters. Lots of twists and turns while lots of secrets get uncovered. Akuji is the definition of a protective and possessive alpha, and Aria is a strong and feisty FMC and neither are afraid to fight for what they believe is right and for those that they care about and love. Ends with a HEA for them but open ended to guide us to the next book. This book is a definite must read and I can’t wait to read the next book in series and see where Katie takes us next!! Absolutely phenomenal story!!
Profile Image for Denise.
1,435 reviews41 followers
September 8, 2022
3.5 Stars

I was a bit hesitant to start this one….characters with tails/horns usually aren’t my thing (yes, vampires and fae are ok 😉)… but I read & really enjoyed Ms. Knights champions series, so I gave it a go. It was pretty good (after I got over the tail and the MMC being red)…it was. However, very insta-lust. The setting has a dystopian feel, which I usually enjoy. That being said, should Ms. Knight make this a series and release another book…chances are pretty good that I will read it
Profile Image for Whatjodiereads.
51 reviews3 followers
August 23, 2022
ARC given for honest review.

This book had no right being this bloody good! This is the first book of this nature that I’ve read and to be honest I was a bit apprehensive but OMFG it’s was incredible like so good I actually can’t stop thinking about it.

This book portrays an apocalyptic dystopian world where monsters are trapped within city walls and treated disgracefully by the humans. But are the monsters really as bad as they seem?

This books almost a metaphor for what the world and society is actually like and how selfish and disrespectful the human race truly is, to me it was an incredible depiction.

Aria is such a strong, empathetic, badass character, she was the best! She entered the monsters world with no prejudice and with only kindness and love and she became one though her loyalty and resilience. She never let herself give up and was wildly selfless when it came to the monsters and her love for Akuji.

Akuji (red) was the most swoon worthy monster ever! He and his tribe were tortured, killed and banished by the humans yet he fell wildly madly in love with one, his love for Aria so incredibly powerful it was crazy and he really listened to her and trusted her and they became such an awesome team. He led his tribe with honourable leadership and even after everything the humans had done to him he was still hopeful for a future that they could all to live together and believed humans aren’t all bad.

The beauty that Katie described within the abandoned city wall was so transportive that you could almost imagine the beauty of a city being taken over by Mother Nature and transformed back from what the humans did.

I loved how kind and respectful the monsters way of living is it’s not the rich stay rich and the poor stay poor it’s we’re all equal we all deserve the same treatment and I love that! There also so respectful of the place they live, the wildlife and nature If only the humans could see. Realistically I’m saying that I loved all the morals of the so-called monsters.

Overall this book surprised me in the best way. It was such a powerful, incredible story and I cannot wait for the rest of the series to be out because in the simplest way it’s just so good! 🐯📚
Profile Image for Daniel Partridge.
23 reviews
September 24, 2022
So I read this book as I have been given an ARC for book 2 and this story is so good! I have read Den of Vipers previously by this author and yet again she delivers on spice but with a really good story too!
Profile Image for Christina Heppermann.
146 reviews3 followers
January 30, 2024
Really enjoyed the dystopian side of things and showing how humans can truly be monsters. Spice was high in this book, in fact sometimes I felt like the story was being pushed aside for it which is why I gave it 4 stars. Overall a good book
Profile Image for Jennifer G.
2,868 reviews54 followers
August 27, 2022
The world is separated by a wall. One side has monsters, the other humans. Aria lives forgotten and alone among the poorest of humans. Each day she crosses the wall to make her living. It's only enough. So when she's offered a small fortune to take another person with her she accepts the offer even knowing better. As could have been expected, it all goes wrong and Aria finds herself in the arms of the monsters. However, it soon becomes apparent that the title monsters were given to the wrong side of the wall. In the walled city, Aria finds love, family, and a community worth fighting for.

Impeccable worldbuilding, strong likable characters, and a solid plot with a message worth noting. Aria was a breath of fresh air. Neglected and alone but not bitter. She took what could have made her weak and grew strong. Her heart was pure and her loyalty couldn't be questioned. She was overall amazing. I mean, not every girl is adopted by a tiger. The monster king Akuji is fearsome and powerful; he's also protective and romantic. His confusion over her slang was adorable and his openness was swoon-worthy. Although I am not a fan of monster romance, he was an impressive hero. The storyline was excellent. Unfortunately, very believable too. I was completely caught up in the intrigue. The battle for the future will be a good one. It's not an easy task to tell a complete story and set up an interconnected series and this book managed it beautifully since we know the casts and the basic direction for the next two books.

*Is anyone else interested in their future babies? Will they be tinted red with tiny horns and little tails? Pink with clashing red hair? White with full-sized horns, a tail, and a spiked tongue? So many possibilities...
Profile Image for Nicole Greene.
811 reviews25 followers
September 7, 2022
Read this now or add this to your TBR list!

The story literally hooked me from the very first chapter. Very fast paced and all of your questions get answered.

I don't want to ruin this story but what I will say is this is about the humans living behind a wall they built while the monsters live on the other side of it. The reason was because there was an all out war between the monsters and humans.

Aria who lives in the slums and goes into the monster territory daily as part of her job, ends up meeting Red! Events happen and soon Aria realizes the monsters aren't what everyone kept saying about them. Secrets are uncovered and Aria has to make a choice on who she truly stands with. I promise you that you will love Red!

❤ Very Possessive Monster, touch her and you die!
❤ Super Steamy🔥🔥🔥🔥
❤ H has a tail and knows how to use it 💋
❤ H has a fork tongue 😘😘
❤ Mate for life
❤ Ribbed 🍆

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