What do you think?
Rate this book
Codex Blair #3
Dark Descent
A succubus. A wizard. A deadly addiction.
Sex kills. Hard to believe, but that's what we're dealing with. A succubus is on the loose. She's dark, hungry, and ancient. In a world of monsters, age is power, and she has both. Something is pushing her to feed on my kind, and if I don't figure it out and stop her, she will kill all of us. I have to stop her, and learn to control the demonic power within me. It's twisting me, tainting me, I can feel its power growing. Dealing with a demon got me into this, let's see if it can get me out.
I am the monster that hunts monsters.
This book contains violence and adult language.
Sex kills. Hard to believe, but that's what we're dealing with. A succubus is on the loose. She's dark, hungry, and ancient. In a world of monsters, age is power, and she has both. Something is pushing her to feed on my kind, and if I don't figure it out and stop her, she will kill all of us. I have to stop her, and learn to control the demonic power within me. It's twisting me, tainting me, I can feel its power growing. Dealing with a demon got me into this, let's see if it can get me out.
I am the monster that hunts monsters.
This book contains violence and adult language.
289 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 6, 2017
291 people are currently reading
155 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
April 11, 2017
Dark Descent (Codex Blair Book 3) by Izzy Shows is the third book in the series but can be read as a stand alone. In this book, our gal who is a monster hunter, is after a succubus. This is not so easy as it sounds. It takes a demon, another incubus, her friend, and Fred her imp to figure out how to stop this beast. It is full of action and craziness. Great plot, characters, dialogue, and situations. I love this series! There is lots of magic, strong female character, action, mystery, and lots of fun. I was given this story to read and the review was voluntary.
April 23, 2017
Rarely do I read an urban fantasy novel that I absolutely adore. This book was one of the few exceptions.
I read this book as a standalone. Whilst it is the third in the series, it is quite readable on it's own. That being said, I am very keen on digging into the first two books, as I adore Blair and this fantastic world that Shows is spinning. It also sounds like there's a lot of context to be gleamed from the first two books, which would make this book even more enjoyable.
There's a lot of depth in the development of the characters and world. I'm very curious to learn more about Blair's upbringing, and to see more of Mal in upcoming novels.
As a fan of Firefly, I couldn't help but love the references to Mal and Serenity. Whilst I'm not certain if these were intentional, they made me feel all warm and fuzzy, all the same.
This novel is well paced, fun, and allows room for reflection. There is something very personal and innovative in these pages, that I feel is often missed within this genre. My only real gripe is there wasn't quite as much romance as I would like - thought hopefully we will see some more in the future! Mal is one sassy man, and I would certainly like to see some more of him as this series progresses.
I would highly recommend this series to lovers of urban fantasy, and I look forward to going back and reading the first two books in this series.
I read this book as a standalone. Whilst it is the third in the series, it is quite readable on it's own. That being said, I am very keen on digging into the first two books, as I adore Blair and this fantastic world that Shows is spinning. It also sounds like there's a lot of context to be gleamed from the first two books, which would make this book even more enjoyable.
There's a lot of depth in the development of the characters and world. I'm very curious to learn more about Blair's upbringing, and to see more of Mal in upcoming novels.
As a fan of Firefly, I couldn't help but love the references to Mal and Serenity. Whilst I'm not certain if these were intentional, they made me feel all warm and fuzzy, all the same.
This novel is well paced, fun, and allows room for reflection. There is something very personal and innovative in these pages, that I feel is often missed within this genre. My only real gripe is there wasn't quite as much romance as I would like - thought hopefully we will see some more in the future! Mal is one sassy man, and I would certainly like to see some more of him as this series progresses.
I would highly recommend this series to lovers of urban fantasy, and I look forward to going back and reading the first two books in this series.
April 16, 2017
This is the third book in this series, and it keeps getting better and better. I love how quickly the author is releasing each of these books. I never have to wait long to find out what Blair is up against next. I really enjoyed how much of Mal was in this book. His and Blair's interactions are amazing, and I kind of want her to make bad choices with him. Things were really picking up at the very end, and I'm so excited about the new character and how she will feature in the next book. It's going to be sooo good.
***Thanks to the author for providing me a free ARC of this book. My opinions are my own.***
***Thanks to the author for providing me a free ARC of this book. My opinions are my own.***
December 12, 2017
Of Dark & Light
I enjoy this series but I feel at this stage it needs an injection of fresh ideas and new characters. Some of the scenarios are getting over used and repetitive and requires a lift to prevent the series from going stale.
I enjoy this series but I feel at this stage it needs an injection of fresh ideas and new characters. Some of the scenarios are getting over used and repetitive and requires a lift to prevent the series from going stale.
August 12, 2017
I received a free copy of this book and was asked to provide an honest review. Considering how much I enjoyed the first two books in the series, I was happy to do so.
Dark Descent continues the Codex Blair story in a positive way. Blair is settling more into her role of defending London and its people from magical dangers. This time it's a succubus. Interestingly enough, considering the foe, there is not a great deal of graphic sensuality or sex. It doesn't seem to be that type of succubus. There are scenes in strip clubs and other establishments, but Izzy Shows doesn't take the easy way out and focus on graphic writing. Instead, she builds the story's tension, and the tension/attraction between Mal and Blair, through some strong displays of writing.
Supporting characters Raven, Fred, Mal, Emily, and others are back and become more developed each showing. As a reader, I continue to see more depth in how they interact with each other and Blair. (Sidenote - Mal and Emily's interactions are great fun!)
Blair has few to any unexpressed snarky thoughts, but in this book she tries to rein them in. Really, really tries. I felt for her and wondered if she was going to blow a fictional gasket or not. Blair continues to occasionally make bad choices and rue them over and over again. If this keeps up, she's going to need a very understanding therapist soon.
This is an enjoyable series and each book seems to be getting better.
May 10, 2017
Changes
In each book Blair changes and in this book she is foot only fighting a succubus, she is also fighting herslef. How will this progress for Blair and you wonder how much the mark is impacting her life, her choices, and her personality. I am left wondering how much longer Blair and Shawn can makes things work since they are from two vastly different worlds. I'm beginning to think that Blair may be better off with Malphas. This was an engaging story, my only complaint is some of it was repetitive in regards to Blair's thoughts. I also am wanting to hear more of Fred's story and see him more involved. For so E reason I like the little imp and want to know more. I also wonder if Blair hasn't taken on Malpha's rage and by doing so may be his salvation to no longer being Fallen. Just a thought. If you like urban fantasy, especially authors like Kim Harrison, then you'll definitely like this series.
In each book Blair changes and in this book she is foot only fighting a succubus, she is also fighting herslef. How will this progress for Blair and you wonder how much the mark is impacting her life, her choices, and her personality. I am left wondering how much longer Blair and Shawn can makes things work since they are from two vastly different worlds. I'm beginning to think that Blair may be better off with Malphas. This was an engaging story, my only complaint is some of it was repetitive in regards to Blair's thoughts. I also am wanting to hear more of Fred's story and see him more involved. For so E reason I like the little imp and want to know more. I also wonder if Blair hasn't taken on Malpha's rage and by doing so may be his salvation to no longer being Fallen. Just a thought. If you like urban fantasy, especially authors like Kim Harrison, then you'll definitely like this series.
September 25, 2017
Book three had a twist ending which I usually do not like but this one made me stop and go OH MY GOD!!! I must read more!!!! Dang the leaving you hanging! However the book is amazing! Blair is still super amazing and this time around has to learn to play well with others. The succubus they are after is uber butt kicking and not easy to deal with. I liked the group involvement. It was different than her usual lone wolf thing, which is cool but its nice to mix it up once in awhile. I cannot wait to read book four!
January 12, 2018
Getting tired of the negative internal dialog
I am not sure if I will keep reading this series. Several times during this book I found it hard to tolerate Blaire's negativity. I know she didn't have the best life growing up and is not comfortable around people but at some point she has to start believing in herself and in her handful of friends. That's really my only complaint. I actually stated skipping parts when she seemed to be getting stated on another rant about how she's not good enough or how everything is her fault, blah, blah, blah.
I am not sure if I will keep reading this series. Several times during this book I found it hard to tolerate Blaire's negativity. I know she didn't have the best life growing up and is not comfortable around people but at some point she has to start believing in herself and in her handful of friends. That's really my only complaint. I actually stated skipping parts when she seemed to be getting stated on another rant about how she's not good enough or how everything is her fault, blah, blah, blah.
March 12, 2018
Solid read, if cliche
Dark Descent is a good installment in the Codex Blair series. It felt more focused on Blair's relationships with those around her than on the "big bad" of the book. The story was intriguing enough to keep reading, though the writing on this one was iffy. The phrase "I didn't trust him as far as I could throw him" was used at least a dozen times, all about the same character. Repetitions like that were annoying, as is Blair's continued infatuation with Emily, but the banter with Malphas made up for it. I'll be reading the next book soon.
Dark Descent is a good installment in the Codex Blair series. It felt more focused on Blair's relationships with those around her than on the "big bad" of the book. The story was intriguing enough to keep reading, though the writing on this one was iffy. The phrase "I didn't trust him as far as I could throw him" was used at least a dozen times, all about the same character. Repetitions like that were annoying, as is Blair's continued infatuation with Emily, but the banter with Malphas made up for it. I'll be reading the next book soon.
September 13, 2017
Disappointed
I hate giving bad reviews because I know I could never write a book but the reviews are why I choose a book sometimes. I'm honestly surprised I read up to book 3. Details are not very good and left me bored and my mind wonder. I think you have a great story line but these books have been a slow process for me. This is the last one I will be reading but good luck in your writing.
I hate giving bad reviews because I know I could never write a book but the reviews are why I choose a book sometimes. I'm honestly surprised I read up to book 3. Details are not very good and left me bored and my mind wonder. I think you have a great story line but these books have been a slow process for me. This is the last one I will be reading but good luck in your writing.
May 30, 2017
Another thrilling story
Every book gets deeper into a fascinating world and it sucks me in till it has ended and I'm needing more. Blair is such a complex heroine that there is always something to learn about her. All of the secondary characters are real and enjoyable. Each story is a thrill on its own and I love each challenge Blair faces.
Every book gets deeper into a fascinating world and it sucks me in till it has ended and I'm needing more. Blair is such a complex heroine that there is always something to learn about her. All of the secondary characters are real and enjoyable. Each story is a thrill on its own and I love each challenge Blair faces.
September 30, 2017
Another great read
Each story entails another journey for Blair, discovering herself and the magic she is capable of. Her group of misfit friends assisting her on each journey to save those in need and helping Blair to tone her powers and not succumb to the demon powers she struggles not to tap into.
Each story entails another journey for Blair, discovering herself and the magic she is capable of. Her group of misfit friends assisting her on each journey to save those in need and helping Blair to tone her powers and not succumb to the demon powers she struggles not to tap into.
November 7, 2017
She has got to be the most unlikable character ever. I enjoy the overall story but the content itself makes me want to strangle someone. I feel like there was a lot of repetition on points which made me roll me eyes in annoyance. I don't remember feeling this annoyed with the previous two so hoping the next one isn't a let down.
August 21, 2017
Not sure..
I enjoyed the first two but the back and.forth angst and self dislike isn't getting better and it's rather boring this time around... Story line was alright, but seemed disjointef
I enjoyed the first two but the back and.forth angst and self dislike isn't getting better and it's rather boring this time around... Story line was alright, but seemed disjointef
January 29, 2018
The author’s endings are getting better! This is easily the best book of the series so far! I’m enjoying getting into more of the lore of the series too.
And, minor spoiler alert, Lillai needs to work on her funky attitude. She is needlessly hostile and I don’t get it.
And, minor spoiler alert, Lillai needs to work on her funky attitude. She is needlessly hostile and I don’t get it.
January 20, 2019
Too dark and depressing for me.
Took me forever to get through this one. Way too much moping, self doubt, and second guessing for me to enjoy reading it. I think I'm done with this series.
Took me forever to get through this one. Way too much moping, self doubt, and second guessing for me to enjoy reading it. I think I'm done with this series.
April 3, 2019
Dark Descent Review
I like the characters especially Mal and I like the overall story but Blair's decision making and inner back and forth is a little frustrating. Still I am interested in seeing where this story is going so I would still say it's worth a read.
I like the characters especially Mal and I like the overall story but Blair's decision making and inner back and forth is a little frustrating. Still I am interested in seeing where this story is going so I would still say it's worth a read.
May 5, 2017
Exciting
This book was a lot of fun to read. I love the interactions with Emily and I hope she continues to play an important role.
This book was a lot of fun to read. I love the interactions with Emily and I hope she continues to play an important role.
January 14, 2018
I'm hooked!
Another awesome look into Blair's world. She stands between darkness and light, which one will she choose? Well written book!
Another awesome look into Blair's world. She stands between darkness and light, which one will she choose? Well written book!
March 1, 2018
Love this series, love the characters and story...
April 12, 2017
This series is really getting into it's stride with the third book. Blair is becoming stronger both physically and magically but the "secret" power she has is causing her so much trouble, as is she didn't already have enough problems to contend with keeping London safe. Her friends are all involved in helping her deal with the latest threat and it is great to see them interacting with each other instead of just with Blair. There is so much to find out about, so many stories to be told about all Blair's friends that this series could go on for a very long time and I hope it does. We are only learning bits and pieces organically about her friends, which is as it should be, but it makes me impatient for the next book, which is also the way it should be! Roll on Book 4.
This book can be read as a standalone but will make much more sense if the series is read in order. Treat yourself to all three if you haven't read the first two yet.
I received an Advance Reader's Copy of this book but this review is my own opinion and is not influenced by the author.
This book can be read as a standalone but will make much more sense if the series is read in order. Treat yourself to all three if you haven't read the first two yet.
I received an Advance Reader's Copy of this book but this review is my own opinion and is not influenced by the author.
April 13, 2017
I received Dark Descent, book 3 of the Codex Blair series, as a free copy from the author/publisher (via BookFunnel). The gifting did not determine the review/rating, which reflects my honest opinion.
I loved the sub-plots, but the overall story line was not as exciting as past books. Blair seemed to lose some of her edgy, in-your-face fierceness when facing down (the idea of) the succubus. I was also disappointed in the many opportunities to grow Mal into a strong supportive character; but he ended up weaker because he defers to Blair, even when she doesn't make the best choices. The author explains the reasoning, but it feels more like Shows is creating a false tension by suppressing the characters.
I'd continue reading the series, but I'll be hoping for more forward progression in the character development, not just the open plot threads.
I loved the sub-plots, but the overall story line was not as exciting as past books. Blair seemed to lose some of her edgy, in-your-face fierceness when facing down (the idea of) the succubus. I was also disappointed in the many opportunities to grow Mal into a strong supportive character; but he ended up weaker because he defers to Blair, even when she doesn't make the best choices. The author explains the reasoning, but it feels more like Shows is creating a false tension by suppressing the characters.
I'd continue reading the series, but I'll be hoping for more forward progression in the character development, not just the open plot threads.
April 17, 2017
This is my first time writing a book review, so please bear with me. 😊 I received this book free from the author, in exchange for writing an honest review of it. I had just finished the first two books in the series, so was eager to read the third. I was not disappointed! Each book builds on the last, with the reader learning more about the characters, and some of what has shaped them into whom they’ve become. In “Dark Descent”, the focus was more on Blair and her interaction with Mal. They spend much more time in each other’s company, and their relationship deepens, as each discovers more of what makes the other ‘tick’. Blair is training with both Mal and Raven, in an effort to help her become stronger and able to manage and control her power; to better prepare her for her continued fight against the monsters who threaten ‘her’ London. The book is fast-paced and well-written, keeping the reader glued to the pages! While the books do have a bit of a cliffhanger to their endings, it’s not enough to be frustrating, and doesn’t leave lots of loose ends hanging about. Just a desire to read the next one! I like this genre, but am actually fairly picky about which series appeal to me. This one does! Great job, Izzy, I am very much looking forward to the next book!!
April 23, 2017
Third in the series and I loved it. The storyline continues to amaze me and keeps me wanting more. Love delving into the action and experiencing the trials and tribulations that Blaire faces. Looking forward to the next in the series to be with Blaire and the gang again on their next case.
April 25, 2017
"Dark Descent" is another good read in the Codex Blair series. In this installment, mages are being killed right in the public eye; yet, everyone's description of the culprit differs. Soon, Blair discovers that the killer is a addicted succubus who craves the magic from the mages.
While Mal and Raven attempt to train Blair on harnessing her anger and her powers, she struggles will the finding a way to capture the succubus as well as keep her bran to Mal from Emily. Through their investigations, Blair decides that she needs to meet another succubus or incubus in order to learn about these demons and in order to find a way to locate the killer. Mal introduces her to a set of twins who are succubai and incubai. As they begin working together it is clear that Blair's reputation as Hunter is getting around the paranormal community.
Blair attempts to warn the mages in the community without revealing who she is. She is not welcome especially with the head of the mages, Lillai. However, she forges forward in an effort to develop a trap to catch the succubus. Even with the help of Mal, and Emily it is clear that there is a lot to be lost if Blair fails and this time she realizes that failure just might be a real possibility.
This was another interesting read in the series. Ms. Shows continues to write great action scenes and she is slowly endearing the characters into the hearts of her fans. Things are definitely becoming complicated with Mal as well as with Shawn. I cannot wait to see how this situation is going to resolve itself.
While Mal and Raven attempt to train Blair on harnessing her anger and her powers, she struggles will the finding a way to capture the succubus as well as keep her bran to Mal from Emily. Through their investigations, Blair decides that she needs to meet another succubus or incubus in order to learn about these demons and in order to find a way to locate the killer. Mal introduces her to a set of twins who are succubai and incubai. As they begin working together it is clear that Blair's reputation as Hunter is getting around the paranormal community.
Blair attempts to warn the mages in the community without revealing who she is. She is not welcome especially with the head of the mages, Lillai. However, she forges forward in an effort to develop a trap to catch the succubus. Even with the help of Mal, and Emily it is clear that there is a lot to be lost if Blair fails and this time she realizes that failure just might be a real possibility.
This was another interesting read in the series. Ms. Shows continues to write great action scenes and she is slowly endearing the characters into the hearts of her fans. Things are definitely becoming complicated with Mal as well as with Shawn. I cannot wait to see how this situation is going to resolve itself.
April 25, 2017
Absolutely brilliant
This is the third book in this series I've read, they have all been brilliant, and this did not disapoint. It was well written with a brillant fast paced, full of action storey line, and great character's
You are getting to know the other characters better, and learning more about them. Shawn is getting more involved now he is in on the secret, Finns and Emily continue with their roles. Mal ???? I really don't know what to think, he seems to care for Blair, it at the same time cause trouble. Blair has the consistent suport of raven and fred as well. Blair is struggleing to manage her anger, but at the same time trying to hide it from her friends, scared she will loose them if they find out about her pact with mal. Whilst simultaneously trying to keep London safe and fight a out of control succubus, tall order for anyone. can't wait for the next book.
I received an ARC in return for a voluntary honest review.
This is the third book in this series I've read, they have all been brilliant, and this did not disapoint. It was well written with a brillant fast paced, full of action storey line, and great character's
You are getting to know the other characters better, and learning more about them. Shawn is getting more involved now he is in on the secret, Finns and Emily continue with their roles. Mal ???? I really don't know what to think, he seems to care for Blair, it at the same time cause trouble. Blair has the consistent suport of raven and fred as well. Blair is struggleing to manage her anger, but at the same time trying to hide it from her friends, scared she will loose them if they find out about her pact with mal. Whilst simultaneously trying to keep London safe and fight a out of control succubus, tall order for anyone. can't wait for the next book.
I received an ARC in return for a voluntary honest review.
January 26, 2019
Action, interesting characters and sexual tension
I couldn't wait to read this book after reading the other ones. I finished each book in a day and ready for the next one. The main character is a sassy but loveble tough character. The tension and interaction with Mal the fallen one is hot. Hoping she will eventually hook up with him as a love interest. In the mean time there are other fun characters such as her human friends, the raven and I especially like Fred her imp. Can't wait for the next book.
I couldn't wait to read this book after reading the other ones. I finished each book in a day and ready for the next one. The main character is a sassy but loveble tough character. The tension and interaction with Mal the fallen one is hot. Hoping she will eventually hook up with him as a love interest. In the mean time there are other fun characters such as her human friends, the raven and I especially like Fred her imp. Can't wait for the next book.
April 28, 2017
So Good
This series is just great. I love all the characters and the dimensions the Izzy puts into them. I adore Mal, the fallen. I hope something more happens between him and Blair.
This series is just great. I love all the characters and the dimensions the Izzy puts into them. I adore Mal, the fallen. I hope something more happens between him and Blair.
April 29, 2017
Love
Good series I love all the characters. I can not wait to read the next book. Probably in a few minutes when I buy it.
Good series I love all the characters. I can not wait to read the next book. Probably in a few minutes when I buy it.
May 3, 2017
An exciting series!
I feel quite sorry for our heroine, and it seems as if an interesting love triangle is in the works - something is up with beau number 1 though...
I feel quite sorry for our heroine, and it seems as if an interesting love triangle is in the works - something is up with beau number 1 though...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews