The Darkest of Dreams

Annika Brisby #4

by Emigh Cannaday

A heinous crime. An empire in turmoil. And a modern girl at the center of it all.


Darkness has fallen on the Marinossian family, leaving ruined lives in its wake and leaving Annika to pick up the pieces. With a deadly doppelgänger still on the loose, she’s escorted back to America to wait out the storm…however long that may be.


A world away, Talvi has been dragged to the desolate prison on Bleakmoor Island where he awaits trial for murder. His time in solitary confinement has pushed him to the brink of madness. The only thing keeping him from completely losing his mind is the mysterious inmate in the cell across from him. He’s one of the Näkki—the half-demon dark elves who were banished from his country hundreds of years ago. As Talvi gets acquainted with his new friend, he learns another version of his country's history that makes him question his convictions. He vows to get some answers...if he ever gets out alive.
The question is, will Annika be there if he does?

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Fae, Vampires, Paranormal Romance, Paranormal, Magic

ebook

First published January 25, 2018

About the author

Emigh Cannaday lives in Wisconsin with her rock star/winemaker husband and a pack of rambunctious Welsh Corgis. She grew up drawing and painting but now uses words to illustrate her elaborate daydreams. When she’s not hoarding houseplants or collecting corgis, she spends her free time testing out new recipes on her friends & family.


For access to the hottest Fantasy and Paranormal Romance reads, author updates, book giveaways, and more, visit: emighcannaday.com/mailinglist

Reviews

[JAIME LOUISE]

Oooh. There is a cover!




I also notice the publication date is listed there as 31 October :/ but, Chapter 1 is available through Emigh's facebook page!

[Ashlee · Rating 5 out of 5]

And nooow I have to wait for the next one ...
Commence suffering
Sigh

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can honestly say that this is my favorite and the best story of the Annika Brisby books by far. I enjoyed the first book, The Flame and the Arrow, quite well and purchased the second, The Silver Thread, where I was a little let down by it but liked it enough to find out what happened with book number three, The Scarlet Tanager, of which I was really disappointed in. I didn’t have high expectations for book four, The Darkest of Dreams. However from the start I was enthralled, the story picks up right where The Scarlet Tanager left you hanging, all of those questions you were left with from the bizarre happenings in book three were answered in a way that you didn’t realize that they were covered so cleverly. I enjoyed the characters’ character and the interaction amongst the other characters. The story line was a lot smoother and clearer than the previous book along with the POV changes; as well as continually building fascinating plots that kept you from wanting to put the story down. The story was complex and fast pace and I don’t know how to describe the wonderful adventure without giving away any spoilers. It keeps you on your toes and is great about not being predictable about what is about to happen.

One of my pet peeves in reading series, is when the author obviously explains/retells the previous stories in the current story you are reading, I mean come on its not very often that a reader hasn’t read the prior books in the series. Mrs. Cannaday isn’t like that and I LOVE her for it. Her writing style will incorporate some of the previous events but in a way where you are not feeling like you are rereading the previous novel again. I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Darkest of Dreams and sincerely look forward to the next adventure!

[Coco.V]

🎁 The complete Annika Brisby Series (4 book series) is FREE on Amazon today (3/28/2020)! 🎁

[Shannon White · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG.....

Talk about an emotional rollercoaster. Now I have to wait for the next book. I'm going to die!! I need more!!

[MiraJane · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was afraid I was going to shoot myself in the foot by buying this book, considering I did when I gave this series another go with the second and third book. I am however happy that I did give this series a third chance. The Darkest of Dreams finally started reflecting the masterpiece that was The Flame and Arrow with the romance, adventure, drama and heartbreak. Although I am grumpy that, yet again, Annika and Talvi was apart for the major part of the book (for the love of god, please stop doing that Miss Cannaday!) their reunion was exactly what I hoped it would be and then some. It also helped that their time together was not only one chapter like in the previous book. Hopefully. In the next story there will be no separation between the protagonists at all and that Finn keeps his distance that he keeps promising bot doesn’t follow through on.

Finally the author has decided to move forward from the whole Annika-Finn fiasco and start working on Annika-Talvi instead. And It only took four books. Yay ... Seriously though, I cannot stress enough how happy I am that it is finally over with the whole Finn and Annika star-crossed lovers BS. Or at least I hope to god it is since it felt permanent this time when I was yet again dragged through their final goodbyes. Sadly it would not surprise me if in the next book the author find some unnecessary and unwanted way to bring them back together again. Because at every ending of every book minus book one the issue is resolved and then for no good reason whatsoever it gets devolved back to that exact same issue in the next like no progress was made at all. And it makes me so frustrated that Emigh Cannaday does that, because The Flame and the Arrow, plus this book shows that she can really write and create a beautiful and complex plot and world with three dimensional characters to go with it. The fact that she doesn’t let the natural progress and development move us away from that bothersome triangle drama, but instead forces the story back there kind of gives me the feeling that she doesn’t really understand what her readers want or like. And sure, this series is her baby so of course she can do whatever she wants with it. However, as a reader I will then also review it accordingly.

It’s not only the infidelity and the continuous long distance relationship (if you can call it that) that makes me wonder how well the author understands her readers. It’s also the pacing and some of the aspects of the story that just did not do it for me. It felt like the least interesting and progressive scenes were dragged out the most which in turn made it a bit too slowed paced for my liking. And the most exciting and addictive scenes and parts were the shortest and the smallest amount of time on. Like Talvi And Annika’s interactions for example. The whole detective vibe that was going on were one of those scenes and moments that just held no interest to me and felt like it took over most of the story. It feels honestly like the author found it much more interesting than the readers do. Of course I am only one person and can’t speak for everyone so maybe I’m wrong. But reading others reviews I can see that a lot had the same or similar insights as me so I don’t think that I am that far off.

If it were possible I would give this book 3,5 stars. Since neither amazon or goodreads allow that I give it 4 stars. Afterall, despite the problems I have, the ending really did it for me and I feels like the series is moving forward to a to a better path.

[Kimmie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holly molly! That was one hell of a book! I have fallen in love with
this series by Emigh. The book was so well-written and thought
out. She has a way of holding you hostage till the end and then
begging for more.

This is Anika and talvi's continuing story. If you have not read the
first 3 books stop reading here. And go get the rest of the books
and this one as you will want to know what happens next. I have
to say after the way the last book ended with Finn dying be
prepared for the sad beginning to this book. His funeral and Talvi
facing prison for his murder had me going through a box of tissues.
Finn was one of my favorite characters and I missed him. Till Anika
made it to Japan. I was so shocked by all that happened there, and
how much Talvi suffered for all that went down. I loved the ending
of this book but I am also so ready for the next book.

Now before I ruin this for you I will leave off here. I hope you
enjoy this book as much as I did. If you do like this book,
please consider leaving a review. The Authors really like it
when you do; they value your opinions too

[Shayay · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 4 in the Annika Brisby series, and I'd recommend starting from the beginning or the story could be confusing. There are multiple POV's. There is also sexual situations. The premise for this book is Talvi has been accused of murdering his brother, Finn. Annika, Talvi's wife, wants to help find a way to save Talvi, but all doesn't go well. There's something fishy going on in lots of places. The Elvin law system looks down upon the fact that Talvi married Annika, who is "human", so that causes lots of contention for Talvi and Annika. Annika is too trusting, and it seemed way too easy for her to push thoughts of Talvi to the back of her mind, so I was disappointed with that. Actually, all of Talvi's family wasn't very helpful. I feel really bad for Talvi.

Likes: Unique storyline. Interesting Characters.

Dislikes: Too wordy. Takes too long to progress the story. Too much un-needed situations.

I'm this far into the series, so I definitely want to see how these characters end up. I just want there to be a little bit more connection between the characters. Look forward to more.

[Christi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Darkest of Dreams is the forth book in the Annika Brisby series by Emigh Cannaday, and I have to say it is my favorite of the four! It was fantastic, I was so happy with the surprises in this book no spoilers here! You do need to read these in order but it is worth it they are all very good and take you on an adventure! I love Talvi and his sexy sly personality. This was my favorite out of the four because there was more of Talvi and Annika together in this one. You need to read this book, you need to read the series! I am voluntarily leaving my honest review after reading this arc.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, my opinion has compelety changed from the first book, the story keeps getting more intriguing and the characters have became more important to me and now I think that Talvi and Annika can make a relationship work.

I can't wait to read the next one

[Ash P Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yesss! I just knew that was a bamboozler. What a hellish 4 months. Man! This government needs a major overhaul and a truckload of reforms. Heron and Dillon are two characters I’m looking forward to seeing develop. And what hell are Konstantin and Yuri up to? Just hope I don’t have to wait too long for the next one.

Advanced Review Copy provided by the author for voluntary review consideration.

[Kelly Mccurdy · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many twists!!!

Oh holy cow where do I even begin??!!! This book pulled at your heartstrings and made you angry and happy all at the same time. Just when you think you figured out what was going on, BAM, plot twist! I would say this book is a soul searching book. Every character in here looked inside them selves and grew up just a little. There were spots in this book that I didn’t think Emigh could ever write, but she did and she did it with feeling and convection.

Emigh knows how to keep the reader entertained, she keeps you needing more. It’s not a want, but it’s a need. You need to turn the page, you need to get to the end of the book, but you want to know how everything plays out. I love this series!!

[Paranormal Books R Us · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book! Jumping right in it quickly continued to follow the events that transpired at the end of The Scarlet Tanager. And I will be the first to say that things looked very bleak indeed. The characters lives had been shattered and completely torn apart. And it seemed there was no hope for Talvi and Annika.

 I was sucked in from the very first page and it didn't disappoint. The story ran through just about every emotion I had and kept me guessing as to how it would play out. This was definitely one of those "just one more chapter" books where I was so involved in what was going on that one more chapter quickly became two more then five and before I knew it I had finished the book. 
Walking a fine line between old school high fantasy and modern urban fantasy this story has evolved more than in could have imagined when I started the series and I love it. 
I can't wait to find out what happens next and in my opinion The Darkest of Dreams is definitely recommended.

[Nadia · Rating 2 out of 5]

okay.. There is something about this book that keeps me going and I am pretty sure it is Talvi's and maybe also Finns character, and the very steamy sex pages that Cannaday pretty much nails!
I am quite sure that I could have read the chapters with Talvi and Finn alone, and I would not have missed anything important at all!!! Annika is once again back in Portland, and reading about her everyday life is getting pretty old, and very boring. It feels like deja-vu and not for the first time..
Oh and I keep getting this weird feeling that Cannaday want's Talvi and Patty to be end game. That would be SO wrong on so many levels! But lets face it the only thing Talvi and Annika has going for them is sex, still I do hope that I am wrong!

[Escape Into Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not wait to read The Darkest of Dreams. I have read the earlier 3 books and I have become involved with the series. I needed to know what happened next. I needed to know what was going to happen with Talvi and Annika. Especially after the events of The Scarlet Tanager. Well, I wasn’t disappointed. The Darkest of Dreams exceeded my expectations.

The Darkest of Dreams starts after the cliffhanger in The Scarlet Tanager. Annika and the rest of the Marinossian family are left reeling and heartbroken. Annika is sent away for her own protection because there is a doppelgänger still out there. A doppelgänger that still wants to harm her. Annika throws herself into her work and exercising to cope with her grief. But, Annika soon finds out that what she thought happened that fateful night is not what anyone thinks it is. Determined to make things right, Annika travels to the one place she is not welcome.

Meanwhile, Talvi is in solitary confinement on Bleakmoor Island. On trial for murder, he is hoping to get out on a self-defense claim. But until then, he has to deal with abusive guards, sub-par living conditions and his own mind. When another prisoner is brought into the same area as he is, Talvi befriends him. Talvi soon learns that this prisoner is not who he seems. He also learns that what he has been taught about his country’s history might not be true.

Annika rocked in this book. From the first chapter, she dealt with the aftermath of what happened. I thought her scene with Heron was fantastic. When she got back to America, she had to deal with the fall out there too. James and her bandmates were there for her. Patti Cakes, not so much. I loved seeing the change in her, physical and mental. I cheered her on during the last half of the book. She did the right thing when faced with a huge surprise. Not going to get into it but it was awesome. Also, I will never look at glass elevators the same again.

Talvi broke my heart. He was suffering mentally over what happened. But to be punished for marrying a “modern” (ie non Elf) girl went too far. He was surviving in conditions that were horrible. Not only did he have a broken jaw (in 4 places) but he had to eat food that was disgusting. His cell was tiny. His bed was infested with bedbugs and lice. I did a literal “ewww” when he was killing the bedbugs and nits. I was happy when Nillin was introduced. It gave Talvi something to focus on other than Annika and the events leading up to him going to jail. I wasn’t surprised when Nillin revealed who he was. There were little clues that I picked up on (which is a miracle because I don’t pick up on anything….lol).

This book focused on Talvi and Annika separately. It showed the deep rift in their marriage, no thanks to Finn. But, it also showed that if you worked towards something, it can be healed. I am not going to go much into the book. I will say that I enjoyed the self-help scene and was laughing at the notes left in the book.

There is a huge twist in the book. It wasn’t at the end, though. It was in the middle when Annika was touring in Japan. I was very surprised at this twist because it came out of nowhere. My jaw dropped, I went “Noooooo waaaaayyyyy” out loud and continued to devour the book.

The end of the book was good, very good. Again, something I can’t get into because in doing that, it will give away some major spoilers. Let’s say that the next book is going to be fantastic.

I will not be a Pros/Cons of The Darkest of Dreams. If I did them, I would be giving away some major spoilers.

I would give The Darkest of Dreams a rating of Adult. There are mild violence, language, and explicit sexual situations. I would not recommend anyone under the age of 21 reading this book.

There is no trigger warning in The Darkest of Dreams.

I would recommend The Darkest of Dreams to family and friends. I would give a warning about the explicit sex but other than that, tell them to read. This is a book that I will be rereading.

I would like to thank Emigh Cannaday and Silver Poplar Press for allowing me to read and review The Darkest of Dreams.

All opinions stated in this review of The Darkest of Dreams are mine.

**I received a free copy of this book and volunteered to review it**

[Jessica Charest · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of this book and volunteered to review it.

I absolutely adored this book. My emotions were all over the place. So much to love. I need the next book right now! Oh, where to start.

How about we start with a brief reminder of the unforgettable ending from the previous book. (If you haven't read it yet, do that, now! If you have, you know what I am referring to.) Holy crap was that a wild ride for the first half of this book. The repercussions of that particular event hit me hard while I was reading. My heart actually broke for Talvi. (Poor Talvi. I wanted to give him a hug the whole time.) He went through hell, and I can only believe from what I have seen that his experience, while painful to witness, has only made him grow as a character. I adore him more than ever.

The appearance of a certain character both did and did not surprise me at one point in the book. (When you read it, you'll know who I mean). I was so happy to see this character again, but somehow I had had a gut feeling that it would be okay.

Now, I must talk about some of the characters who got particularly strong emotions from me while reading. First of all – Heron. Admittedly, Heron did not have a huge role in this book, but I can see him playing more of a role in the future and I found his character endearing. Yes, he is a rough seeming sort, but he seems like a good guy, and he won me over. Next up – Eleanor. I love her and I definitely ship her with a certain elf (whose name I will not mention for fear of spoilers). Next up – Dillon. Initially, I was wary of him. I knew he was hiding something, but I couldn't help but love him. Next up – Cyril. I greatly dislike Cyril, but I love that I dislike him. I spent a good portion of the book thinking there was something off about him. And even now, I dislike him. I don't trust his motives. It's not that I think he's a bad guy... he just has motives that interfere with the loveliness that is Talvi and Annika. Then there is Konstantin. After all of this time with his character, I am still not sure how to feel about Konstantin. I kind of like him, but I don't trust him, either. I doubt he is evil, but he still seems shady most of the time.

And then there is my favorite part of the book: Annika and Talvi. I ship those two so much. Whenever they had moments together, I fear I may have squealed a little from happiness. I am also so glad that Annika refused to back down and let Talvi's fears rule the day. I feel like she, like Talvi, has developed so much over the course of this series so far. I love the connection between the two of them. And I'm so glad Talvi has Annika after what he went through in the first half.

I cannot wait for the next book. I'm excited for the next step in Talvi and Annika's journey. I loved every second of The Darkest of Dreams and will be anxiously awaiting book 5.

[Symone · Rating 5 out of 5]

After the long wait and the excruciating cliffhanger that was the end of book 3 I am SO HAPPY that book 4 is here. It is bittersweet that I finished it in a day BUT the writing is incredible yet again from Emigh and you just want to get behind Talvi and Annika and see them overcome all the things that continue to separate them.

So writing this review without any spoilers at all is difficult my suggestion if you have not read any of the Annika Brisby series is go - right now - and get book 1. It is free on Amazon and you will be transported to a world of music and magic, of elf boys and rock chicks and parallel worlds.

Book 3 left the fans of Talvi and Annika in shock and we pick up the action in book 4 only a few days after those fateful and horrific events. What we all thought was going to turn out to be a trick or a big surprise was in fact actually happening and the Marinossians were split down the middle. Annika is shipped back to her home in Portland - so the family can 'grieve' without being constantly reminded by her presence that both their sons are now missing and Talvi finds himself in a very dark and depressing position. Whilst separated AGAIN Annika heads off on a world tour because her music has taken off and she needs something to distract herself from her missing husband. Talvi finds friends in unexpected places and has his political and world views challenged.

Side note I enjoyed the addition of the political agendas we are seeing emerge and I feel this will play an even bigger role in future books.

Unlike the the other books that follow a fairly straight forward linear path, book 4 has us cutting forwards and backwards in time as we piece together the whereabouts of all the main players that led to Talvis downfall. This can be distracting but once you get a feel for the storytelling it all begins to make sense. Emigh has a way of weaving players together so that you don't really know what is happening until everyone is in the same room. It is a rare talent in the paranormal genre, that is dominated by single POV's, and adds a mysterious and suspenseful quality to the Brisby series.

So much so that I got to one particular chapter, it was 2am, but after skimming the first few sentences it became apparent that I wasn't going to get much, if any sleep that night because I just HAD to keep reading. That is the brilliance of Emigh, you become so enthralled with these characters that when they are hurting or in a moment of revelation you can't rest until you also know the outcome.

It is a brilliant continuation of a spectacular series. So glad to learn that book 5 is on its way.
#TeamTalvi

[Mel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow again a great book!!😀

Book four in the series again a fantastic written story! I was counting the day still I got this book in my library. After all that has happened, Finn has been killed by his own brother Talvi. The whole family is distraught, they good name and reputation destroyed in that gruesome night.

Talvi been arrested and shipped straight to prison, to a cruel place called Bleakmoor. While Annika was escorted back to America in tow with 2 powerful Paladins, Sacred soldiers who has been positioned as her bodyguards. The darkest of dreams begins for Annika and for Talvi.

I found great pleasure to read this story.
Fantastic development and amazing plot with a great twist. I really liked it because it's a bit more to read about Talvi. And again fantastic description within the surroundings, that you feel yourself in Bleakmoor. You will also get a good insight of the political situation and what happened in the past war, regarding the Näkky.

To read about Finns funeral, broke my heart.... you will meet some new characters and I was surprised that Yuri has not been mentioned at Finns funeral?
I know that Konstantine attended, just wondering. I would have loved to read the conversation with her partners, they have not seen Yuri for some time.... same is happened in the previous book when she visited Finn in his room....also no comments that she spoke to her parents, very pity because you always had some insight of the conversation with the family.

I actually missed Chivanni and a bit more about the tour Annika gave, where they actually went, as well Charlie came far to short in this series because it was not mentioned what he has to say about when or why Pattycake left....I missed a bit more of the communication with Annika roommates, in the past there have been plenty of small talk, this time was only James involvement.


It's still a amazing storyline, if you have read all other parts, this one is a MUST READ!!
As normal, I cried and laughed and cried again....angry about certain behaviour lol that's what a book should be!!
To entertaining you, losing yourself in a different world!!

Oh and more: I am very happy for Runa, Sariel and of course HIlda!! 😁

I looking forward what will happened because it will get dangerous, if Talvi's friend in prison is the lost Prince and with konstantine involvement....where will that lead?
Hopefully this will not take so long LOL
Thank you Emigh for another amazing book 😀

[Lora Shouse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who’s buried in Finn’s grave?

This book is full of nearly non-stop tension. No sooner does one situation get straightened out than something else needs to be worked on.

It begins badly. Everybody is mourning Finn. Talvi has been hauled off to prison. And nobody wants to even look at Annika; apparently, the entire Marinossian family blames her for the fight between Finn and Talvi that has left Finn dead. The papers have already convicted her of being a ‘modern girl’ and deliberately causing discord in the powerful Marinossian family. Cyril insists that she should return to Earth and that she should take bodyguards with her.

They take every possible step to be sure there has been no mistake – They wait several days before burying Finn, but his dead body stays the same. If it had been a doppelganger instead of Finn who was killed, the body should have begun to morph back to its real form after a couple of days, but that doesn’t happen. So Talvi is hauled off to Bleakmoor Island after surgery to wire his broken jaw into place. There he is treated abysmally. When he is taken out for his trial, he is sentenced to seven hundred years or life, whichever comes sooner, mostly for having married a modern human, and is brought right back.

While he is in jail, however, Talvi learns of an apparent injustice that has been done to another prisoner, one who is supposed to have been a prisoner of war from the last war between the Estellian Empire and the Ellunian Empire over a century before. This appears to be the type of situation that would be perfect for a secret agent like Talvi to investigate. But what good will this do him if he is to continue to be locked up?

Of course, all this has to change. I would like to say that everything changes overnight, but in fact, it doesn’t exactly happen overnight. In fact, it takes quite a while before (nearly) everything is straightened out.

Thanks to the author for a free copy of this book to review.

[Gaddle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review is based on an audiobook that I received. It is an honest review and the complimentary receipt of it in no way affected my review or rating.

'The Darkest of Dreams' by Emigh Cannaday is the story of Annika and Talvi. This is audiobook 4 in "The Annika Brisby' Series. This audiobook is about 12hours long that does have an open end that is setting you up for the continues story of Annika and Talvi.

I have been anxiously waiting for the release of 'The Darkest of Dreams' and I can’t tell you how amazing it was to get this audiobook into my hands!
The previous book in this series, 'The Scarlet Tanager', was left on a cliff hanger. So I was excited and curious how the story would continue. Emigh loves a good cliff hanger. But who doesn't?
I had a feeling that it was't what it looked liked at the end of the previous book. But I need to listen to this book to make sure. If was right or not.

It is now clear to me that the Annika Brisby series is the kind of series that you must read from book one, as the story builds from that foundation. There is are plots that are carrying through the books.
Also, it is an amazing series with great personal growth for the characters involved, not just the main characters, and it just makes the stories very satisfying reads!

There is little of the romance element to this story. I think that is because of the serious setting this story plays out.
In addition, there is a political subplot that is slowly unfurling that involves more than one race in this world.
I am excited to see where the everyone is placed in the next part of this series!

Overall, 'The Darkest of Dreams' was an amazing journey for Annika and Talvi and I can’t wait to see where this story goes next!
The one thing I didn't like was the story was sort of split in two. A part 1 and part 2 what didn't melt well together in my point of view.

I received this audiobook in exchange for an honest review

[Adena · Rating 5 out of 5]

I definitely recommend reading this series in order. If you haven't read the first three books, you shouldn't even read this review yet because the beginning of this book is a HUGE spoiler of the ending of book 3.

The fourth book of the Annika Brisby series begins in a very dark place. At the end of the previous book, everything seemed hopeless. The Marinossian family was in turmoil and grief, and society had turned on Annika, blaming her. Banished back to Earth, Annika has to pick up the pieces of her life and find the courage to go on. But even in the darkest of dreams, hope and redemption can be found.

The compelling world of magic and elves and secret societies that Cannaday has created comes to life once again in the continuation of Annika's tale. I don't know how many books will be in this series, but I'm hoping it isn't ending anytime soon. The main characters are wonderfully flawed, but completely lovable. Each of the other characters is fully developed, and occasionally we get a glimpse into their lives for a chapter or two. Although the entire story is told from a third person perspective, it typically focuses on the thoughts and actions of one character at a time, usually Annika or Talvi. It's easy to root for the two of them, although they are both impulsive and they jumped into marriage before they truly knew or trusted each other. There are a lot of obstacles to overcome, but we hope they will find a way to work through their problems.

It's hard to describe this book without spoiling major plot points, so I will just say that the plot moved quickly and had several twists that surprised me, and other twists that were foreshadowed in the previous books. Once I started reading, I couldn't put it down, much like each of the previous books in this series. Highly, HIGHLY recommended.

I volunteered to review an ARC of this novel.

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ican honestly say that this is my favorite and the best story of the Annika Brisby books by far. I enjoyed the first book, The Flame and the Arrow, quite well and purchased the second, The Silver Thread, where I was a little let down by it but liked it enough to find out what happened with book number three, The Scarlet Tanager, of which I was really disappointed in. I didn’t have high expectations for book four, The Darkest of Dreams. However from the start I was enthralled, the story picks up right where The Scarlet Tanager left you hanging, all of those questions you were left with from the bizarre happenings in book three were answered in a way that you didn’t realize that they were covered so cleverly. I enjoyed the characters’ character and the interaction amongst the other characters. The storyline was a lot smoother and clearer than the previous book along with the POV changes; as well as continually building fascinating plots that kept you from wanting to put the story down. The story was complex and fast pace and I don’t know how to describe the wonderful adventure without giving away any spoilers. It keeps you on your toes and is great about not being predictable about what is about to happen.

One of my pet peeves in reading series, is when the author obviously explains/retells the previous stories in the current story you are reading, I mean come on its not very often that a reader hasn’t read the prior books in the series. Mrs. Cannaday isn’t like that and I LOVE her for it. Her writing style will incorporate some of the previous events but in a way where you are not feeling like you are rereading the previous novel again. I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Darkest of Dreams and sincerely look forward to the next adventure!

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

At long last, the much-anticipated sequel to The Scarlet Tanager has been released. The Darkest of Dreams, the fourth book of the Annika Brisby series by Emigh Cannaday does not disappoint. The book begins after the cliffhanger to end all cliffhangers with the funeral of Finn. Talvi is locked away in the aptly named Bleakmoor prison awaiting trial for the murder of his brother. Annika becomes the poster child for all that is wrong with the modern world and has been asked to return to America to give the Marinossian family and surrounding community a chance to heal without her presence as a constant reminder of the cause of their deep sorrow. All seems hopeless.

Far from it! The story takes a creative and unexpected turn bringing satisfying closure to a number of loose ends, most notably the Annika/Talvi/Finn love triangle. At the same time, new possibilities emerge. Ancillary characters are developed further or take on new roles. New characters are introduced including the intriguing dark elf, Nillin, a fellow inmate of Talvi’s, and Heron, Talvi’s half brother. Nillin’s conversation keeps Talvi sane during his brutal incarceration and at the same time reveals secrets that cause Talvi to question his loyalties. As for Heron, I am most anxious to see what Ms. Cannaday has in store for him. He has the promise of becoming a force of his own and quite a yummy one at that!

Great read! I am already anticipating the release of Book 5 and hope the stories keep on coming!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The latest installment in the Annika Brisby series has been my favorite so far.

I felt like I was *supposed* to like Annika and Talvi in the first book, but they both were infuriatingly immature, which (who knows?) might have been intended to leave room for them to grow up.

I can't help but notice the writing quality has gotten tighter since the first book. The characters are growing and maturing, slowly but surely. It didn't feel quite fast enough for me in the previous three books, but then Talvi and Annika actually talk about their imperfect marriage and both express a real interest in working on it.

I always felt Talvi needed a close male friend and he found that in Dillon so that was satisfying - the two of them discreetly shooting the shit and making dirty jokes together in Bleakmoor prison.

The added conflict between Talvi and Cyril/his government is incredibly interesting and gives Talvi more to care about besides sex and his self-interests, which made him a more sympathetic character. I can't wait to see how that unfolds. I've got to mention how Finn's surprise return "from the dead" got me hooked. I couldn't put the book down once he reappeared! I'm so excited for what comes next now that Annika is going along with Talvi on one of his mysterious government missions. It's felt borderline impossible for the couple to get together and stay together, which has been frustrating for sure!

[Nicole Dunton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tragedy has struck! Anika has lost two people she loves more than anything over a heated argument that went too far. Struggling with the loss of them both and feeling like everybody blames her, she is banished back to her world. As she picks up the pieces and begins to heal and move on with her life, she discovers something that throws her world upside down and leaves her to question everything.

I just can't believe I finally have the continuation of this story. I feel like I spent between when I finished book three and when I started reading this book completely yearning for more! That should be on the cover of this book. "Prepare to be completely sucked in and absorbed by this story." This is now definitely one of my favorite series of all times. I never want to see it end.

I do have just one tiny criticism about the book. There are parts of the book that get a bit repetitive Just little paragraphs that could use a bit of re-wording. Not really many that I could tell. Then again, I was so absorbed in the story I can't really keep track. The narrator was fantastic as well.

I give this a full five-star rating. It's one of the best series I've ever read. I will definitely be going back and re-reading this series multiple times. I just know it! If you're interested in fantasy novels with thrilling drama, this is a perfect book for you! Warning, this book does contain adult content and language.

[Amy Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been eagerly awaiting book 4 in this series! After the climatic ending to book 3 I had to know what was going on!
Poor Talvi never can catch a break! Poor Finn! So much drama!! Poor Annika! I wanted to skip ahead in the book to find out what was going on...but I didn’t.
So much has happened in this book! It encompasses all emotions. Fear, sadness, disbelief, happiness...the list goes on. How do you write a review and not give anything away?? This book is a must read! It continues down the road of Talvi and Annika’s tumultuous relationship. Your on the edge of your seat wondering if they stay together or end it for good.
How hard is it to love someone that doesn’t love himself? Annika is about to find out. That doesn’t think that he deserves to be with you because of who he is and all that he’s done? Talvi needs Annika just like he needs air to breathe. So much was going on in this book! It was a emotional roller coaster ride of ups and downs.
If you’ve read the other 3 books in this series then this is a must read. The ending of the book leads you to believe there will be a fifth in the series. I’m squealing with delight at that possibility!
I hope this series is ongoing and that we get to see many adventures of Talvi and Annika in the future.

[Debra · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Scarlet Tanager was the previous book in this series and it ended with a heartbreaking cliffhanger. It just about tore me apart waiting for The Darkest of Dreams, which made me much happier and the ending is a continuation of the story, no tears this time.

The Darkest of Dreams starts with Finn’s funeral and Talvi being taken away and charged his brother’s murder. He is imprisoned on Bleakmoor Island in solitary confinement where he meets Nillin, who is placed in the cell across from Talvi’s cell. In the meantime, Annika is sent back to the U.S. where she struggles with her mixed feelings about Finn and Talvi.

The time they spend apart gives Annika and Talvi a chance to look back at their lives and their relationship and to decide what they really want out of life. I loved the way they each worked through the issues they had with each other, deciding what was really important and what was worth working towards. This is the book where they finally grow up into mature adults. I like Annika and Talvi a lot more as they become more thoughtful and less impulsive.

There is also political intrigue and several new characters. My favorite is Nillin, who is a half-demon black elf. I can hardly wait to see his story, hopefully in the next book.

[Stephanie M. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Locked in the tiniest of cells, for a crime unimaginable, Talvi, is looking at 700 years in prison. Bug infested mats keep him up at night and the imagine of his wife, painted on the wall in blood, is the only hope at keeping him sane.

Until he befriends a man across the cell, a companion to quench his thirst for “human” interaction.

Annika’s world is turned upside down as the two men who vied for her affection were gone. Cycling through emotions of love and hate, she turned back to her first love, music, for respite. While music provided a brief break in constant overwhelming emotional trauma, it could only last so long.

This book is a continuation in the series, must read the previous books before indulging your senses.

While this book is part of a series and cliffhangers are to be expected, this installment was less appealing then the others. Characters who previously held the audience captivated lacked the initial chemistry, unnecessary characters were added and many questions were left unanswered that would drive readers further into the series.

[Myrna Richmond · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cant tell you how eagerly I have waited for this book. This series has really caught my imagination in a big way and I cant praise it highly enough. A lot of the book was "difficult" because there was stuff that had to be resolved from the last book. I felt this deeply because I had "lived" the story along with Anika and Talvi from the beginning. The end of the last book was a shock and that carried on into this one. The whole story is very emotional but it gradually lightens up and all is revealed. Anika and Talvi's story is a passionate one and the people around them lead similar volatile lives. By the end of the book I was satisfied by how things were turning out and my mind had eased considerably. I love this series and the people in it. I think it is magical and oh so memorable. Well done Emigh you done good girl!

[Faith Richie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Darkest of Dreams is the perfect portrayal of how beautiful and messy love is.
I love how this book keeps relationships real even surrounded by supernatural influences. I’m a firm believer that to be in a healthy relationship all parties need to choose that every minute of everyday, accept the now let go of the past. I felt this was beautifully weaved throughout book 4. Fans of this series will not be disappointed. The book itself really kicks you “feels” at time. There is a lot of “meat” in this book some loose ends are tied up as new threads unravel. It is hard to say too much because I don’t even to hint at anything and risk spoiling the experience. Don’t put this on your To Be Read shelf, read it now ;)