What do you think?
Rate this book
Codex Blair #7
Tainted Light
Only a mad woman would willingly go to hell. Good thing I'm as crazy as they come.
He hurt me more than anyone else has. I lived through a childhood of abuse, lost my mentor, and fought to survive against everything from demons to the Wizard Order, but nothing prepared me for the cutting pain of being told I was nothing to him.
Now, he's dying. Some tainted angel has him chained up and is breaking his body and mind piece by piece.
I shouldn't give a damn, but I'd be lying if I said it didn't tear my heart out.
To save him, I must do what no other mortal has: get in and out of hell in one piece. Breaking in is the easy part. The rest? I'll need more than magic and stubborn pride.
There's one person I know who'll always be in my corner, and it just so happens she's a paladin to boot. But how can I ask the woman I love to rescue the demon who broke my heart?
Buckle up, kids. We're going to hell.
He hurt me more than anyone else has. I lived through a childhood of abuse, lost my mentor, and fought to survive against everything from demons to the Wizard Order, but nothing prepared me for the cutting pain of being told I was nothing to him.
Now, he's dying. Some tainted angel has him chained up and is breaking his body and mind piece by piece.
I shouldn't give a damn, but I'd be lying if I said it didn't tear my heart out.
To save him, I must do what no other mortal has: get in and out of hell in one piece. Breaking in is the easy part. The rest? I'll need more than magic and stubborn pride.
There's one person I know who'll always be in my corner, and it just so happens she's a paladin to boot. But how can I ask the woman I love to rescue the demon who broke my heart?
Buckle up, kids. We're going to hell.
- GenresUrban FantasyDemonsMagic
266 pages, Paperback
First published December 12, 2017
90 people are currently reading
121 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 - 24 of 24 reviews
December 21, 2017
Tainted Light by Izzy Shows is another great book in the series. I love that Malphas is back in the picture even if Blair has to travel to literal Hell to see him. Blair is really getting snippy. Is it because she is not with who she truly desires? She talks tough but gets everyone into trouble and almost gets them killed or herself. She is getting rash and snippy, not her strong and sure but cocky way. She is leaning on Emily more too. She seemed disappointed that Mal wasn't dead! She just needs to get with Mal or Mal and Emily need to leave the grouch, lol. I still love the story...
I was give this story to read and the review is voluntary.
I was give this story to read and the review is voluntary.
December 15, 2017
I loved everything! Oh I have things to do and I've been procrastinating. I should not have done that but I am so happy I did. I can't wait to read the next book.
December 28, 2017
Not sure what to think
I've been reading this series from the first book and I've always been team Mal. In this book I was thinking Blair and Mal would fix things between them and grow closer, just because he is Fallen doesn't mean he can't feel. Now it just feels like a complicated relationship because of everything that was said and having Emily in the mix too. I think she loves Mal as much as or even more than Emily and its getting very complicated. I'm still team Mal but I like his brother Asmodeus too.
This book wasn't what I thought it would be and I'm hoping Blair can work out her feelings for who she wants to be with. She's with Emily now and is happy with her and loves her but gets very defensive when Emily asks her about how she feels for Mal. I think Blair should have the chance to explore a relationship with Mal before making any long term decisions, she missed Mal terribly and has true feelings for him even though she's in denial about it.
I've been reading this series from the first book and I've always been team Mal. In this book I was thinking Blair and Mal would fix things between them and grow closer, just because he is Fallen doesn't mean he can't feel. Now it just feels like a complicated relationship because of everything that was said and having Emily in the mix too. I think she loves Mal as much as or even more than Emily and its getting very complicated. I'm still team Mal but I like his brother Asmodeus too.
This book wasn't what I thought it would be and I'm hoping Blair can work out her feelings for who she wants to be with. She's with Emily now and is happy with her and loves her but gets very defensive when Emily asks her about how she feels for Mal. I think Blair should have the chance to explore a relationship with Mal before making any long term decisions, she missed Mal terribly and has true feelings for him even though she's in denial about it.
December 16, 2017
Oooh I have been waiting for Mal and Blair to get the band back together! I really needed this in my life right now. So I absolutely love Emily and Blair. But that Blair/Mal chemistry... ugh that so NEEDS to happen. I fully support the suggestion at the end, though I think it would completely destroy someone who so does not deserve it. I am conflicted.
Blair traveling through Hell to save Mal was so much fun. I loved the challenges in each realm and what they brought out in both Blair and Emily. So many props to Emily for helping Blair. She's such good people. We don't deserve her.
I was so worried about Mal's brothers and what would happen if they found out about Blair. Girl stressed me out with her choices regarding them, but I hope we get a lot more of the brothers in future books. I'm definitely eager to see how that plays out.
This is one of my favorite series, and I have so much fun reading each book. I definitely need to binge the whole series sometime soon.
***I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC of this book.***
Blair traveling through Hell to save Mal was so much fun. I loved the challenges in each realm and what they brought out in both Blair and Emily. So many props to Emily for helping Blair. She's such good people. We don't deserve her.
I was so worried about Mal's brothers and what would happen if they found out about Blair. Girl stressed me out with her choices regarding them, but I hope we get a lot more of the brothers in future books. I'm definitely eager to see how that plays out.
This is one of my favorite series, and I have so much fun reading each book. I definitely need to binge the whole series sometime soon.
***I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC of this book.***
December 13, 2017
(3.5 Stars)
"Tainted Light" has done what the previous book in this series did not do: it restored my interest in the Codex Blair series because Malphas is back. Yes, I understand that Blair and Emily are now together but I never have felt any true chemistry between them.
Blair is at home laughing with Fred when there is a knock at the door. Rather than opening it, Fred informs Blair that she should be the one to do it. The unannounced visitor is none other than a wounded and dying Malphas and he has come to apologize to Blair for his poor treatment of her and let he know that he cares for her. Now, we finally get an understanding why he has done the things he has done.
No sooner than he arrives, Malphas disappears and Blair is desperate to save him. She enlists the help of Fred, a seer and finally, Emily. They will go to the pit of hell to find him and endure the trials of the seven deadly sins. Sometimes the monsters in our minds are worse than any real monster we can conjure up and that proves to be the case with both Blair and Emily. However, I must say, this is where this book lost a little of my interest because I quickly grew tired of Blair and Emily's constant self doubt and self proclamations of love. Thee protest too much!
There is plenty of information to assist us gaining insight into the live of Mal and there is a heart wrenching cliffhanger that is truly necessary in leading us into book 8, the grand finale. There wasn't as much action in this book due to all of the personal drama but it was enjoyable. I cannot wait to see how this series ends.
"Tainted Light" has done what the previous book in this series did not do: it restored my interest in the Codex Blair series because Malphas is back. Yes, I understand that Blair and Emily are now together but I never have felt any true chemistry between them.
Blair is at home laughing with Fred when there is a knock at the door. Rather than opening it, Fred informs Blair that she should be the one to do it. The unannounced visitor is none other than a wounded and dying Malphas and he has come to apologize to Blair for his poor treatment of her and let he know that he cares for her. Now, we finally get an understanding why he has done the things he has done.
No sooner than he arrives, Malphas disappears and Blair is desperate to save him. She enlists the help of Fred, a seer and finally, Emily. They will go to the pit of hell to find him and endure the trials of the seven deadly sins. Sometimes the monsters in our minds are worse than any real monster we can conjure up and that proves to be the case with both Blair and Emily. However, I must say, this is where this book lost a little of my interest because I quickly grew tired of Blair and Emily's constant self doubt and self proclamations of love. Thee protest too much!
There is plenty of information to assist us gaining insight into the live of Mal and there is a heart wrenching cliffhanger that is truly necessary in leading us into book 8, the grand finale. There wasn't as much action in this book due to all of the personal drama but it was enjoyable. I cannot wait to see how this series ends.
December 12, 2017
This is the story we've been waiting for since Malphas took away his demon mark from Blair and broke her heart. Blair is going above and beyond (or below, in this instance) to help Malphas, even though she is so confused about her feelings for him, so hurt by what he said, and so frightened of upsetting Emily. We learn more about Blair and Emily's feelings for each other and see them interacting together, battling their way through Hell.
Blair is as strong and stubborn as ever, facing challenging trials with her usual "just get through it then put it in a box and never think about it again" attitude, and doesn't back down even when faced with scary new people she was never meant to come in contact with. She is so feisty despite being incredibly unsure of herself and having no self-esteem and I love her for it.
The story is gripping and imaginative and the action never stops. The story is beautifully written and works perfectly, continuing from the events in The Fallen Hunter, which was one of my favourites of the series because it was all about Mal, my one true Fallen love. This series just keeps getting better and better and I am looking forward to seeing how Blair copes with what comes next.
Blair is as strong and stubborn as ever, facing challenging trials with her usual "just get through it then put it in a box and never think about it again" attitude, and doesn't back down even when faced with scary new people she was never meant to come in contact with. She is so feisty despite being incredibly unsure of herself and having no self-esteem and I love her for it.
The story is gripping and imaginative and the action never stops. The story is beautifully written and works perfectly, continuing from the events in The Fallen Hunter, which was one of my favourites of the series because it was all about Mal, my one true Fallen love. This series just keeps getting better and better and I am looking forward to seeing how Blair copes with what comes next.
May 11, 2018
I'm not sure what to say about this book. I like the Codex Blair series and I was also glad Mal was back. But while I did enjoy this book I also feel there were lots of missed opportunities. Love the central concept - Mal is being tortured by an angel and Blair and Emily face a journey to the center of hell to save him. Then the trials were just so lackluster, all so similar, so easy to pass. Not to mention how easily they defeated each and every demon they met. I'm also ready for Blair to show some growth. She is exactly the same as she was in the first book. She has gained no insights to her personality, she still has the exact same fears, reacts the exact same way, makes the exact same mistakes. I liked this book more than my review is sounding. I'm just frustrated that this series is so close to being something special, but seems to be making no effort at it.
And why, oh why, did no one ask about the angel? Did Mal kill it? Did it give up and go back to heaven? Weren't they worried anyone that he was tainted? I can't believe neither Blair or Emily would travel to hell to recuse Mal and then not ask any questions about it.
And why, oh why, did no one ask about the angel? Did Mal kill it? Did it give up and go back to heaven? Weren't they worried anyone that he was tainted? I can't believe neither Blair or Emily would travel to hell to recuse Mal and then not ask any questions about it.
December 13, 2017
This series is absolutely fantastic, absolutely love the character of Blair, which just continues to grow, It just seems to be getting better and better. Malpas is back!!!!!! Yey.
This book is well written with a great storyline that draws you in and keeps you reading. It kind of follows on from Malpas's book, the fallen Hunter, so highly recommend you reading that as well, although it is not completely necessary.
I love the relationship between between Blair and her friends. Emily is back at Blair's side, supporting and helping her. Weylyn and Fred support, care and offer advice and information to her.
The glimpses into Blair's childhood are heart breaking, but allow you to understand her character better. Also there is more of Emily's history which helps with understanding of her character. Also much information about Malpas and the other fallen.
I can't wait for the next book.
I received a ARC and am leaving a honest and voluntary review.
This book is well written with a great storyline that draws you in and keeps you reading. It kind of follows on from Malpas's book, the fallen Hunter, so highly recommend you reading that as well, although it is not completely necessary.
I love the relationship between between Blair and her friends. Emily is back at Blair's side, supporting and helping her. Weylyn and Fred support, care and offer advice and information to her.
The glimpses into Blair's childhood are heart breaking, but allow you to understand her character better. Also there is more of Emily's history which helps with understanding of her character. Also much information about Malpas and the other fallen.
I can't wait for the next book.
I received a ARC and am leaving a honest and voluntary review.
January 19, 2018
Not my favorite
It's still a good story, but it wasn't one of my favorites. It ended up not being one of my favorites, because of the insecurities, arguing, and the drama. It's something I don't like especially having two teenage daughter's. The book definitely got more intestine towards the end and shows a lot of promise setting up for the next book in the series. I definitely am happy to read about Mal again and I think Blair may be part angel. Just my thoughts about Blair and her abilities.
It's still a good story, but it wasn't one of my favorites. It ended up not being one of my favorites, because of the insecurities, arguing, and the drama. It's something I don't like especially having two teenage daughter's. The book definitely got more intestine towards the end and shows a lot of promise setting up for the next book in the series. I definitely am happy to read about Mal again and I think Blair may be part angel. Just my thoughts about Blair and her abilities.
December 23, 2017
Great story. Page-turner. Blair is such a delight: self-effacing, gung ho, unintentionally humorous. Izzy really knows how to capture Blair's spirit in the story. Blair's Paladin and the man that Blair is striving to say have their own unique charms.
I was provided this book as an ARC by the author; however, the review is my honest opinion.
I was provided this book as an ARC by the author; however, the review is my honest opinion.
December 14, 2017
Love the storyline and where it’s taking us. Blair is on a mission with the help of her girlfriend Emily who is a Paladin to save Mal who she is on the outs with. Her rescue mission leads her to the centre of hell. Facing many obstacles, most of all her own insecurities. She is able to stand up for herself....can’t wait to see what will happen next
June 7, 2018
Well, this was fascinating. Not quite what I expected, but I feel like each book gets farther away from the original cast while introducing a deeper look into the supernatural world and more excitement. As bad as it sounds, I just want to get to the heart of things and find out what she is and what's really going on!
April 19, 2019
Tainted Light Review
Really good read! It jumped right into the action from the beginning and and kept it up until the end. It still had the never ending loop of the main characters inner turmoil which can be a bit much and a hell of a cliffhanger. BUT Mal is back and for me that alone makes it worth the read!
Really good read! It jumped right into the action from the beginning and and kept it up until the end. It still had the never ending loop of the main characters inner turmoil which can be a bit much and a hell of a cliffhanger. BUT Mal is back and for me that alone makes it worth the read!
December 14, 2017
Another winner!
From the first page I literally did not stop until the last sentence. Very eager to get my hands on book 8. This has been a great series to read and I've been thoroughly entertained by the characters throughout. Awesome read!
From the first page I literally did not stop until the last sentence. Very eager to get my hands on book 8. This has been a great series to read and I've been thoroughly entertained by the characters throughout. Awesome read!
December 14, 2017
Needs editing work
While I was ecstatic to have another Blair installment, this one was very rushed. The number of errors (missing words, misspellings, etc.) actually detracted from the story.
While I was ecstatic to have another Blair installment, this one was very rushed. The number of errors (missing words, misspellings, etc.) actually detracted from the story.
February 18, 2018
Love this series
I really love the character development that warehouse throughout the entire series. She’s rough around the edges but has a deeply caring soul despite all the horrible things that is happened to her. Can’t wait for the next book
I really love the character development that warehouse throughout the entire series. She’s rough around the edges but has a deeply caring soul despite all the horrible things that is happened to her. Can’t wait for the next book
October 29, 2018
This was a great book. Probably one of my favorite so far. I can't wait to see what happens next. I'm still team Mal, just not feeling it with Emily. There's not that chemistry there like between Blair and Mal. It's just a different kind of love, I think.
January 6, 2018
Loved this series
I was hooked from the first chapter. Can’t wait for book 8. I look forward to seeing the outcome to Blair and Mal
I was hooked from the first chapter. Can’t wait for book 8. I look forward to seeing the outcome to Blair and Mal
February 19, 2018
Good read
A few grammar/spelling errors but I’m a huge fan of the series I can not wait to read the next book
A few grammar/spelling errors but I’m a huge fan of the series I can not wait to read the next book
March 1, 2018
Love this series, love the characters and story... waiting for the next!
June 5, 2018
Where is book #8?
Can't wait..
Thank You Ms Shows
Ken
Can't wait..
Thank You Ms Shows
Ken
January 1, 2019
Not sure
I started reading this series and although I am not really into it i have a curiosity to see how it ends
I started reading this series and although I am not really into it i have a curiosity to see how it ends
April 12, 2018
Disappointing return
Waited several months for Izzy to get back to Blair’s story, and the wait was not rewarded. This story was more of a stretched novella with no significant story line. A cake walk through hell with very weak trials and only one random encounter probably does not fit anyone’s definition of what a trip though well would be like. Only good thing was seeing more of Emily. After this book I am more interested in her story than Blair’s.
Waited several months for Izzy to get back to Blair’s story, and the wait was not rewarded. This story was more of a stretched novella with no significant story line. A cake walk through hell with very weak trials and only one random encounter probably does not fit anyone’s definition of what a trip though well would be like. Only good thing was seeing more of Emily. After this book I am more interested in her story than Blair’s.
September 4, 2023
Mal is back!
The last book just didn’t feel right without Mal. I’m interested to see where this goes between him and Emily.
The last book just didn’t feel right without Mal. I’m interested to see where this goes between him and Emily.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews