King of Flames (Masks of Under, #1)

by Kathryn Ann Kingsley

• ISBN10: 1640345353
• ISBN13: 9781640345355
• Publish Date: 23 February 2019
• Publish Status: Active
• Imprint: Limitless Publishing, LLC
• Format: Paperback (US Trade)
• Pages: 270
• Language: English

Reviews

[Nadz@Totally Addicted to Reading]

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review."King of Flames", book one in the Masks Under series, by Kathryn Kingsley transports readers to a realm filled with magic and mystery. The story revolves around a young woman's forbidden attraction to a mysterious and alluring king. This attraction triggers a perilous chase, akin to a game of cat and mouse. The story's heart-racing action promises to hold readers captive into the early hours, eagerly flipping through pages to unravel the mysteries surrounding the elusive King Aon and the realm of Under.

Lydia, a forensic autopsy technician, life took an unexpected turn when she woke up to find an mysterious tattoo etched in her skin. The day's mystery didn't end there; it intensified when she was attacked by a body she was examining at work. The mystery deepened with the revelation that her best friend Nick, a security guard at her job, bore a matching tattoo. Their shared mark became the first clue in a chain of bizarre and frightening events, ultimately leading to their abduction into a shadowy world called Under.

Wow! This book was a wild ride, yet delightfully so. The world crafted by the author fascinated me. While it's not a place I'd choose to visit, it impressed me. 'King of Flames' captured my attention from beginning to end with its captivating storyline, distinctive world-building, and intricate characters.

While 'King of Flames' is promoted as a dark fantasy romance, it's best to lower expectations regarding the romantic element. The story is indeed dark but lacks the anticipated romance. However, the evident connection between Lydia and Aon hints at a possible romantic development in future sequels.

The installment was captivating, setting high expectations for the sequel, 'Queen of Dreams'.  My excitement grows for the next installment of this thrilling series.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading

[Eve1972]

So this book was a little outside of the normal genre I tend to read, but I like to step out of my box once in a while. Kathryn Ann Kingsley was also a new "to me" author, so combine those two and I wasn't really sure what to expect. However, I lucked out because CHRIST ON A CRACKER it blew me away with how fantastic this book turned out to be. The writing was phenomenal. It was well paced. The plot was SO very engaging. The world building excellent. It had a bit of a steam punk feel to it which I loved. The characters were intriguing and well developed. I adored Lydia. She is (and I imagine will continue to be) a kicka$$ heroine. There is a plethora of fascinating secondary characters I can't wait to learn more about. I especially want to know what is going on with Nick, a shapeshifter...yay!

 
There isn't any romance in this first book, just a lot of setting the stage and character introductions. At this point I am not sure if this is heading in a love triangle direction of not. "I" don't "think" it is. I think Lydia and Aon will be a thing, but I can't rule out King Edu. So needless to say there wasn't any sex except for a brief mention of King Edu getting serviced (he is a serious whore) (lol). I feel like Aon has some serious kink in him though. However that may just be my dark freak loving heart making a wish. Last, it all wraps up on a cliffhanger and book two is out at the end of March. I for one CANNOT wait...