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Annika Brisby #3
The Scarlet Tanager
"You're part samodiva. I knew that when I met you. It's in your blood to be distracted by beauty...and pleasure." He turned to face her, taking in every sensuous curve of her female form. "You seem to have forgotten that it's in my blood as well. Whatever shall I do to remind you?"
Scandal...
Blackmail...
Obsession...
It's just another day if you're a Marinossian. When Annika disappears without a trace, Talvi launches the hunt for his most infuriating rival yet. His only clues are from a government he's increasingly at odds with. In exchange for access to their resources, he does the unthinkable and reveals Annika's true nature. Time is short, but the list of names Talvi can trust keeps getting shorter...
Back home at the family's country estate, his brother Finn is blindsided when the missing redhead turns up injured with no recollection of how she arrived. While his mother tends to her physical wounds, Finn's given the task of restoring her memory...and he just can't resist showing her his version of the truth. But playing mind games is like playing roulette - and someone's luck is about to run out!
410 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 27, 2016
165 people are currently reading
361 people want to read
About the author
Emigh Cannaday
20 books321 followersEmigh 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
For access to the hottest Fantasy and Paranormal Romance reads, author updates, book giveaways, and more, visit: emighcannaday.com/mailinglist
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
August 26, 2016
A frustrating love triangle!!!
I was looking forward to this book being released to see how the story continued and after reading it I have to say I am left feeling annoyed, dissapointed and saddened by the turn of events with these characters!!! First of all I feel that Talvi's character starts of in the first book as a repenting womanizer who trys to prove himself to Annika in order to win her love and trust, in the second book he turns into an attention seeking, self centered jerk who flirts none stop with anything in a skirt!!! It completely revolted me how he treated Annika and how much he had changed and by the 3rd book I just HATED him 8% into the book and he had already been fucking around with another woman and by the end of this book he was telling his wife who after everything shed gone through to 'beg him to fuck her' I couldnt believe at that point how Annika sucummed so low to take that from him after seeing how sweet and caring his brother was in contrast to him. Even our leading lady has changed, she appears to have lost her backbone and spunk to have taken all of Talvis shit and forgiving him just like that even though he abandoned her in Paris with his brother!!! And in the 3rd book she seems very attracted to Finn to the point of obcession, she appeared to be falling for him and truely caring about him while distancing herself from her husband but as soon as he shows up she jumps into bed with him not giving Finn a second thought making her look heartless, fickle, uncaring and the biggest cock tease/slut ever!!! And lets not forget Finn that POOR character who gets the short end of the stick EVERYTIME.... he is a wonderful character who in the first book does nothing but defend his brother. In the 2nd book does his brother a favour by watching over Annika while he was away and due to unforseen circumstances does something extreme to help them both and ends up nearly being killed by his ungreatful little brother for the second time no less even though it was his fault they were in that situation in the first place. By the 3rd book my heart ached for him he is deeply in love with Annika and wants nothing more than a family and even though he wants her terribly he doesn't take advantage of her only showing her through dreams his desire for her hoping shed realise how much happier she could be with him but in the end he just ends up being used by her and treated poorly by his own family.
I was looking forward to this book being released to see how the story continued and after reading it I have to say I am left feeling annoyed, dissapointed and saddened by the turn of events with these characters!!! First of all I feel that Talvi's character starts of in the first book as a repenting womanizer who trys to prove himself to Annika in order to win her love and trust, in the second book he turns into an attention seeking, self centered jerk who flirts none stop with anything in a skirt!!! It completely revolted me how he treated Annika and how much he had changed and by the 3rd book I just HATED him 8% into the book and he had already been fucking around with another woman and by the end of this book he was telling his wife who after everything shed gone through to 'beg him to fuck her' I couldnt believe at that point how Annika sucummed so low to take that from him after seeing how sweet and caring his brother was in contrast to him. Even our leading lady has changed, she appears to have lost her backbone and spunk to have taken all of Talvis shit and forgiving him just like that even though he abandoned her in Paris with his brother!!! And in the 3rd book she seems very attracted to Finn to the point of obcession, she appeared to be falling for him and truely caring about him while distancing herself from her husband but as soon as he shows up she jumps into bed with him not giving Finn a second thought making her look heartless, fickle, uncaring and the biggest cock tease/slut ever!!! And lets not forget Finn that POOR character who gets the short end of the stick EVERYTIME.... he is a wonderful character who in the first book does nothing but defend his brother. In the 2nd book does his brother a favour by watching over Annika while he was away and due to unforseen circumstances does something extreme to help them both and ends up nearly being killed by his ungreatful little brother for the second time no less even though it was his fault they were in that situation in the first place. By the 3rd book my heart ached for him he is deeply in love with Annika and wants nothing more than a family and even though he wants her terribly he doesn't take advantage of her only showing her through dreams his desire for her hoping shed realise how much happier she could be with him but in the end he just ends up being used by her and treated poorly by his own family.
February 16, 2017
This author really doesn't know how to properly structure a novel! There were so many possibilities for excitement in this one, and all of it wasted. Give me conflict! And no that stupid ass love triangle doesn't count (I didn't think you could screw up a love triangle, it's such an easy format to follow, but this book managed it). How about the how and why of Annika's kidnapping? Barely any time spent investigating that. And the few interesting side characters there are, get about one chapter. While Annika shopping for a dress and going to a party takes like half the book (or what feels like half the book anyway). Boring boring boring! Not to mention Annika and Talvi have an incredibly unhealthy relationship, which really shouldn't be endorsed. I don't understand why the author won't move on to another project, because this series is a dead horse.
August 20, 2016
I'm at 70% in the book and I cant help but comment on how frustrated I am to the point where I felt it necessary to comment on good reads when I haven't opened this site in a year. I love this series, it's really good, and I think it's well written. However, I was torn between giving this book 5 stars or no stars, and unfourtunately I cant give it no stars, so 1 star it is.
Book one was excellent, book two, started to get dicey for me. I'm a huge hater for those who cheat in real life so I make it a point to not read about it when I immerse myself in wonderful fiction, and IMHO that's exactly what Finn and Annika are doing. I honestly have never hated a character as much as I hate Annika. Finn is climbing to the top of my hate list as well. Towards the end of book 2, and now into book 3, I'm constantly shaking my head in anger, asking "How exactly is this ok?" Why are we supposed to be ok with this? The fact that Annika has been though a trauma she can't even remember excuses nothing at this point. I'm really disappointed in the author. I feel like she is using this injury to excuse unexcusble behavior, like somehow, it's ok for Annika to lust and lead on Finn, Talvi's brother just because she can't remember, and pretty much forget any kind of morals that's supposed come with being married to someone. Morals = Thrown out the window.
Annika at this point in the book knows that she is married and still dreams about boning Finn to the point that he can easily read what shes thinking, and he's acting on it. She has to be literally the most selfish, whiney little b**ch character I have ever read about and I have read A LOT of books. A character that uses any excuse in the book to justify any kind of rude additude towards her husband like throwing his past in his face constantly, and the wild lustful behavior towards her husband's brother. I'm not ok with this, I don't like it in real life and I don't like reading about it. At this point I'm only reading cause I cant wait to see what Talvi has in store for his wife and brother when he finds about them.
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ARRTGGHHDF/nhfgh bfkdjnbkfdbnkfdnbhjkl
I just finished it. Changed my 1 star to 5 star. ARRRRGggghhhh.
Book one was excellent, book two, started to get dicey for me. I'm a huge hater for those who cheat in real life so I make it a point to not read about it when I immerse myself in wonderful fiction, and IMHO that's exactly what Finn and Annika are doing. I honestly have never hated a character as much as I hate Annika. Finn is climbing to the top of my hate list as well. Towards the end of book 2, and now into book 3, I'm constantly shaking my head in anger, asking "How exactly is this ok?" Why are we supposed to be ok with this? The fact that Annika has been though a trauma she can't even remember excuses nothing at this point. I'm really disappointed in the author. I feel like she is using this injury to excuse unexcusble behavior, like somehow, it's ok for Annika to lust and lead on Finn, Talvi's brother just because she can't remember, and pretty much forget any kind of morals that's supposed come with being married to someone. Morals = Thrown out the window.
Annika at this point in the book knows that she is married and still dreams about boning Finn to the point that he can easily read what shes thinking, and he's acting on it. She has to be literally the most selfish, whiney little b**ch character I have ever read about and I have read A LOT of books. A character that uses any excuse in the book to justify any kind of rude additude towards her husband like throwing his past in his face constantly, and the wild lustful behavior towards her husband's brother. I'm not ok with this, I don't like it in real life and I don't like reading about it. At this point I'm only reading cause I cant wait to see what Talvi has in store for his wife and brother when he finds about them.
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ARRTGGHHDF/nhfgh bfkdjnbkfdbnkfdnbhjkl
I just finished it. Changed my 1 star to 5 star. ARRRRGggghhhh.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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March 28, 2020🎁 The complete Annika Brisby Series (4 book series) is FREE on Amazon today (3/28/2020)! 🎁
August 29, 2016
Aarrgg!!! Dam you woman. You did it to me again. Not only
did I stay up 24 hours straight reading this book, but you go
and end this one like that. Nnnooo I don’t want that end to be
true. And please get me the next book ASAP. Crap it say not
till next year. So for a year I have to wonder if one of my
favorite characters is dead. I am hoping it was someone
Else, or a dream. Anything else, but how it went down….
Okay now that I am done with my rant. On with the review.
I am trying so hard not to blow this book for you. Now if you
have not read the first two books, go get them and start
there. This is one phenomenal set of books. I just wish
I could get book 4 now. But I do know she is still writing it.
So alas I have to wait.
Now the last book ended with Anika was kidnapped by a
very bad, well I am not sure as he is able to shape shift into
anyone he has ever touched. Well this whatever it is sells
her to a bunch of vampires. And that is when her true hell
begins. Even now that she does not remember what has
happened in the past year. She remembers some things.
But Finn is not right in the head and is confusing her even
more =. So much so she thinks he is her husband. Granted
he tells her he is not. But it seems he is off his rocker.
Meanwhile, Talvi is still searching for her. Finn has sent him
a cryptic note telling him he has her but it takes Merri to
figure it out. Then there is the wako Yuri who is now a
vampire. She is so vile she tells Finn things that are really
awful man I want to kill her at times.
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.
did I stay up 24 hours straight reading this book, but you go
and end this one like that. Nnnooo I don’t want that end to be
true. And please get me the next book ASAP. Crap it say not
till next year. So for a year I have to wonder if one of my
favorite characters is dead. I am hoping it was someone
Else, or a dream. Anything else, but how it went down….
Okay now that I am done with my rant. On with the review.
I am trying so hard not to blow this book for you. Now if you
have not read the first two books, go get them and start
there. This is one phenomenal set of books. I just wish
I could get book 4 now. But I do know she is still writing it.
So alas I have to wait.
Now the last book ended with Anika was kidnapped by a
very bad, well I am not sure as he is able to shape shift into
anyone he has ever touched. Well this whatever it is sells
her to a bunch of vampires. And that is when her true hell
begins. Even now that she does not remember what has
happened in the past year. She remembers some things.
But Finn is not right in the head and is confusing her even
more =. So much so she thinks he is her husband. Granted
he tells her he is not. But it seems he is off his rocker.
Meanwhile, Talvi is still searching for her. Finn has sent him
a cryptic note telling him he has her but it takes Merri to
figure it out. Then there is the wako Yuri who is now a
vampire. She is so vile she tells Finn things that are really
awful man I want to kill her at times.
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.
August 8, 2016
OMG! OMG! That's all I can say right now about the story I just read. How could you end it that way :( that was the biggest twist that I never saw coming, and I thought I could foresee where you were going, but I was WRONG! All the chapters leading you thru a wonderful storyline. OMG! Woman, that was an insane ending, and I have to wait till 2017 to read the rest? This book has so many twists and turns with the characters in it, and I can't wait until the last book is out. What an incredible story, I didn't put it down from the moment I started it. Can NOT wait to see the finale of the story. For any reader interested in the classical love story turned wrong, this is an excellent book to read, leaving you wanting more at the end! I can recommend this book is a great read and you will be so happy to get it. I received a free advanced review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 5 Stars!!!!!
February 11, 2018
I’m.... not even sure what to say, really. For two people who are supposed to be true loves, Talvi and Annika spend most of their time apart, at each other’s throats or banging other people. What’s the point? After spending two books clinging determinedly to Team Talvi, he completely lost me when he took up with his boss despite being married. After he, you know, ripped his new wife from her home country with the lure of a honeymoon, then proceeded to dump her off with his brother and vanish without a word. What a terrific guy! I am inclined to excuse Annika’s transgressions because she had no idea she would be experiencing a period of uncontrollable heat, which no one bothered to explain to her.
My lasting impression of this book is that Annika should be with Finn, and Talvi should be flushed. Ugh.
My lasting impression of this book is that Annika should be with Finn, and Talvi should be flushed. Ugh.
August 17, 2016
I had to think about it before writing this review. For one I love dark novels and anxiously awaited this third book in the series. Given the fact that usually things always go wrong and unexpected in Talvi and Annika's newfound relationship; I have to say this was darker than I anticipated. I am so elated that I did not see this coming and was taken off balance. One thing is for sure, if you've already made assumptions about these characters you're in for a whole new revelation and some insight that will have you question many things. Breathtaking, Dark, Astonishing and compelling series. Remarkable books that is not easily forgotten. Your jaw will drop, a lot. This was given as an Advanced Reader for an honest review from author Emigh Cannaday. Five plus stars.
August 27, 2017
What in God's name was that???????
Can someone please explain what happened in this book?
I mean book 1 was AMAZING! Exquisite!
Book 2 was too mundane, who cares that Talvi went to Home Depot and spent thousand of dollars buying home repair items and that Annika takes 4 hours to do her hair...ugh! And then there's Paris.....what a mess that was.
Book 3, OMG it was just about cheating on poor Talvi!
Finn and Annika were just getting it on throughout the book! In their dreams, on Finn's bed or wherever they could.
And then we have the end of Book 3....WTF was that!!!!! No, no, no, no! This book is soooooo messed up! Why do writers like to play with our feelings??? Not fair!
Can someone please explain what happened in this book?
I mean book 1 was AMAZING! Exquisite!
Book 2 was too mundane, who cares that Talvi went to Home Depot and spent thousand of dollars buying home repair items and that Annika takes 4 hours to do her hair...ugh! And then there's Paris.....what a mess that was.
Book 3, OMG it was just about cheating on poor Talvi!
Finn and Annika were just getting it on throughout the book! In their dreams, on Finn's bed or wherever they could.
And then we have the end of Book 3....WTF was that!!!!! No, no, no, no! This book is soooooo messed up! Why do writers like to play with our feelings??? Not fair!
August 23, 2016
I really enjoyed this book, it kept you on your toes at times and twisted in all the right ways. However, I wanted more about the chase that Talvi and Merri were on. I suppose that will be part of the next book. It was well written and detailed so you could enjoy the mental imagery and become a part of the chapters. Fin, Fin, Fin, you are so wrapped up in yourself and what you want that you never seem to see what or who Annika really is and why your brother is her soul mate....not you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2017
Nooooooo
I'm not sure how I feel about this book, the writing is great but the story line disappointed me. For one thing I have hated Finn since last book and after the things he did in this book I dislike him more. At the end of this story Talvi has matured tremendously. My problem with that is that it did not get into how he got to that point.
After book 3 I am now vested on this story and will follow it to the end. I do hope it gets better because it has potential.
I'm not sure how I feel about this book, the writing is great but the story line disappointed me. For one thing I have hated Finn since last book and after the things he did in this book I dislike him more. At the end of this story Talvi has matured tremendously. My problem with that is that it did not get into how he got to that point.
After book 3 I am now vested on this story and will follow it to the end. I do hope it gets better because it has potential.
September 26, 2016
Wow..... This book brought lots of changes to brothers Talvi and Finn... and poor Annika....
I Love that Talvi is growing up....
Not sure how I feel about Finn's actions in this book... I've always liked Finn a lot... but he really did some underhanded things in this book...
Can't wait to see how it all turns out...
Oh and that ending... Holy Cow!!!!!
I Love that Talvi is growing up....
Not sure how I feel about Finn's actions in this book... I've always liked Finn a lot... but he really did some underhanded things in this book...
Can't wait to see how it all turns out...
Oh and that ending... Holy Cow!!!!!
January 30, 2019
This book while well written was my least favorite in the series. I really can't stand what Finn did to her. The ending did have me at the edge of my seat, waiting for book 4.
August 17, 2018
Still love the series, but annoyed and upset- team Finn all the way and that’s coming from someone who was team Edward. But Edward wasn’t a masochistic womanizer like Taliv
May 30, 2018
“Shall I wipe my boots on you since you’re masquerading as a doormat?”
I received a complimentary copy of this book for free to give a voluntary honest review. This review contains only my own thoughts and opinions of this book. Thank you Emigh Cannaday for this opportunity!
Reading this book from start to finish started as a fun pastime ... until chapter two and three. After that it became an obligation to my ”can’t leave anything unfinished” syndrome and further down the road it became absolute torture. There is no way this author planed this starting the first book. The second and now this book is just so so different and follows the Flame and the Arrow so poorly that right now I can’t help but think that she let her first story and it’s amazing characters, plot and world go to waste. She could have just left the first book as a stand alone and made a completely new series instead.
First of, this is supposed to be a dark fantasy paranormal romance. Is it dark? Yes, but not in any good way for the most part. Is it fantasy? I guess? But it honestly felt more like some sort of detective/criminal investigation drama with all the kidnapping and searching and working for the supernatural’s very own FBI. Is it paranormal? Sure, It is more paranormal than it is fantasy anyway. Last of all, is it romance? No, not really at all. Unless you count the last 7 % of the book (kindle). This was more like a long distant relationship without the regularly scheduled phone calls and infidelity on the side. What’s romantic about that?
This just shows how deceiving the book cover is because once again Talvi and Annika is apart for the major part of the book (in this case 93 %). You’d think that’d be the worst part, but it actually isn’t. No, the absolute worst is that as I was struggling with my annoyance of them not being together yet again, I started getting the shipping of Finn and Annika thrown right in my face. Excuse me, but wasn’t that already resolved in the Silver Thread? Why go back there then? Instead of evolving the plot and relationship it got devolved back. I didn’t tolerate the relationship between Finn and Annika much in the previous book and even less now that the author insinuated that they are “soulmates” and “destined lovers”, like the love between Talvi and Annika wasn’t real or as strong. Add my already growing annoyance I was feeling of a “romance” between characters spending most of the story worlds apart, you can understand I was pissed. Emigh Cannaday is pulling a Sara J Maas on me. The difference is Maas expertly wrote the new relationship so that I could eventually get behind it. This however, I can’t get behind. At. All.
Then we have all the useless facts, stories and details that gives nothing to the plot or development. They were just here to fill out the pages and bore the readers, it felt like. For example all the different provinces/countries and all their politics and culture. Why do we need to know that in detail? We also had to read through Corbin’s story which I can barely remember since I sort of spaced out finding no interest in it. As far as I could see none of it were of importance or any way to progress the story. Then we have that weird moment when they were discussing twilight as well. I don’t know if it was useless. I guess it gave the book and Annika a quirk, but I found it really cringy. I mean, what the hell was that about? Is Cannaday promoting Twilight or something?
For me this book deserves two stars at most. After all, there were some things I quite liked, although few and far between. I liked how well written the trauma Annika experienced was and how it effected her. I really liked the chapter from Hilda’s POV, which surprised me since I usually don’t like different POVs. I especially liked that for once Talvi actually took some blame of what went wrong in their relationship, instead of blaming it all on Annika, like he did in the Silver Thread.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for free to give a voluntary honest review. This review contains only my own thoughts and opinions of this book. Thank you Emigh Cannaday for this opportunity!
Reading this book from start to finish started as a fun pastime ... until chapter two and three. After that it became an obligation to my ”can’t leave anything unfinished” syndrome and further down the road it became absolute torture. There is no way this author planed this starting the first book. The second and now this book is just so so different and follows the Flame and the Arrow so poorly that right now I can’t help but think that she let her first story and it’s amazing characters, plot and world go to waste. She could have just left the first book as a stand alone and made a completely new series instead.
First of, this is supposed to be a dark fantasy paranormal romance. Is it dark? Yes, but not in any good way for the most part. Is it fantasy? I guess? But it honestly felt more like some sort of detective/criminal investigation drama with all the kidnapping and searching and working for the supernatural’s very own FBI. Is it paranormal? Sure, It is more paranormal than it is fantasy anyway. Last of all, is it romance? No, not really at all. Unless you count the last 7 % of the book (kindle). This was more like a long distant relationship without the regularly scheduled phone calls and infidelity on the side. What’s romantic about that?
This just shows how deceiving the book cover is because once again Talvi and Annika is apart for the major part of the book (in this case 93 %). You’d think that’d be the worst part, but it actually isn’t. No, the absolute worst is that as I was struggling with my annoyance of them not being together yet again, I started getting the shipping of Finn and Annika thrown right in my face. Excuse me, but wasn’t that already resolved in the Silver Thread? Why go back there then? Instead of evolving the plot and relationship it got devolved back. I didn’t tolerate the relationship between Finn and Annika much in the previous book and even less now that the author insinuated that they are “soulmates” and “destined lovers”, like the love between Talvi and Annika wasn’t real or as strong. Add my already growing annoyance I was feeling of a “romance” between characters spending most of the story worlds apart, you can understand I was pissed. Emigh Cannaday is pulling a Sara J Maas on me. The difference is Maas expertly wrote the new relationship so that I could eventually get behind it. This however, I can’t get behind. At. All.
Then we have all the useless facts, stories and details that gives nothing to the plot or development. They were just here to fill out the pages and bore the readers, it felt like. For example all the different provinces/countries and all their politics and culture. Why do we need to know that in detail? We also had to read through Corbin’s story which I can barely remember since I sort of spaced out finding no interest in it. As far as I could see none of it were of importance or any way to progress the story. Then we have that weird moment when they were discussing twilight as well. I don’t know if it was useless. I guess it gave the book and Annika a quirk, but I found it really cringy. I mean, what the hell was that about? Is Cannaday promoting Twilight or something?
For me this book deserves two stars at most. After all, there were some things I quite liked, although few and far between. I liked how well written the trauma Annika experienced was and how it effected her. I really liked the chapter from Hilda’s POV, which surprised me since I usually don’t like different POVs. I especially liked that for once Talvi actually took some blame of what went wrong in their relationship, instead of blaming it all on Annika, like he did in the Silver Thread.
May 16, 2017
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 Scarlet Tanager' by Emigh Cannaday is the story of Annika and Talvi. This is the 3th audiobook in "The Annika Brisby' Series. This audiobook is about 14hours long that does have a cliffhanging end that is setting you up for the continues story of Annika and Talvi. Emigh Cannaday really likes her cliffhanging ends.
I was very happy to hear that Emigh Cannaday used the same narrater as she use for the first book (The flame and the arrow) in 'the Annika Brisbey' series.
The narrater, Nick Cracknell has a nice voice. He is easy to listen to. Sometimes a bit monotome, but certainly very clear. His pronounciation is very good. The sound quality is also good. it was nice and clear. Nick Cracknell's acting skills brought the characters to life.
This book started off with deception, action, and a sinister villain. It then went for a ride into the realm of appalling. Honestly, poor Annika! Then with another twist to the story, past actions comes back to haunt Finn and confuse Annika. This book was truly wonderful. This story is told primarily from the perspective of Finn. Annika is a huge part of this book but suffering from memory loss she is fighting her way to the truth.
Talvi’s older brother and he has always been a big brother to him even if he did not condone his actions, until Annika. Throughout the series Finn has found himself torn between his feelings for Annika. In this book we are seeing a whole new Finn. He is obsessive and has become very unhealthy and dysfunctional.
In my previous reviews I have always felt that Annika needed to grow up a little and I am really wowed by her development in this story. Some may argue this point due to her behavior, but she had very few memories that were clear and she was being influenced by Finn who had some very strong feelings on the subject of her marriage to Talvi.
I however felt that Annika was trying to figure out everything. Especially her marriage to Talvi had been something that was not filled with joy and wonder. They actually had very little time together and their relationship started off on the wrong foot. When they did finally have a break-through she was ripped away in the worst way possible. I feel that by the end of this story that an entirely new Annika had emerged.
I kinda missed Talvi in this book. Especially beause he did his damnest to find wife.
In the end it turned out to be ok. I love what occurred when Talvi and Annika were brought together again. It was really wonderful, touching, and made my heart soar. But then…..
The last chapter happened and I was left in a wretched state of disbelief. Disbelief at what happened between the brothers and I was absolutely with Talvi as he screamed: “No! No! NO! This isn’t HAPPENING!”
Yep, right there with you brother. I am still reeling from what occurred and all I can say is “please say it isn’t so!” Wondrous addition to the series! I highly recommend.
I hope I dont have to wait very long for the next book in the series. I think that something happened in the end, but im not sure if im right. I hope I am.
I received this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
'The Scarlet Tanager' by Emigh Cannaday is the story of Annika and Talvi. This is the 3th audiobook in "The Annika Brisby' Series. This audiobook is about 14hours long that does have a cliffhanging end that is setting you up for the continues story of Annika and Talvi. Emigh Cannaday really likes her cliffhanging ends.
I was very happy to hear that Emigh Cannaday used the same narrater as she use for the first book (The flame and the arrow) in 'the Annika Brisbey' series.
The narrater, Nick Cracknell has a nice voice. He is easy to listen to. Sometimes a bit monotome, but certainly very clear. His pronounciation is very good. The sound quality is also good. it was nice and clear. Nick Cracknell's acting skills brought the characters to life.
This book started off with deception, action, and a sinister villain. It then went for a ride into the realm of appalling. Honestly, poor Annika! Then with another twist to the story, past actions comes back to haunt Finn and confuse Annika. This book was truly wonderful. This story is told primarily from the perspective of Finn. Annika is a huge part of this book but suffering from memory loss she is fighting her way to the truth.
Talvi’s older brother and he has always been a big brother to him even if he did not condone his actions, until Annika. Throughout the series Finn has found himself torn between his feelings for Annika. In this book we are seeing a whole new Finn. He is obsessive and has become very unhealthy and dysfunctional.
In my previous reviews I have always felt that Annika needed to grow up a little and I am really wowed by her development in this story. Some may argue this point due to her behavior, but she had very few memories that were clear and she was being influenced by Finn who had some very strong feelings on the subject of her marriage to Talvi.
I however felt that Annika was trying to figure out everything. Especially her marriage to Talvi had been something that was not filled with joy and wonder. They actually had very little time together and their relationship started off on the wrong foot. When they did finally have a break-through she was ripped away in the worst way possible. I feel that by the end of this story that an entirely new Annika had emerged.
I kinda missed Talvi in this book. Especially beause he did his damnest to find wife.
In the end it turned out to be ok. I love what occurred when Talvi and Annika were brought together again. It was really wonderful, touching, and made my heart soar. But then…..
The last chapter happened and I was left in a wretched state of disbelief. Disbelief at what happened between the brothers and I was absolutely with Talvi as he screamed: “No! No! NO! This isn’t HAPPENING!”
Yep, right there with you brother. I am still reeling from what occurred and all I can say is “please say it isn’t so!” Wondrous addition to the series! I highly recommend.
I hope I dont have to wait very long for the next book in the series. I think that something happened in the end, but im not sure if im right. I hope I am.
I received this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 7, 2024
Finally a decent book. The first 2 books were so bad I had zero expectations for this book. Especially after the book began in the same manor as the first two-- Talvie being a shallow, vapid, self-centered philanderer (he gets frisky with Runa in a bath and lets his ex-boss feel him up, and maybe more, with only a half-hearted rejection because even though his wife is missing it's more important to him to have the upper hand with his work mate). Everyone in the series is constantly saying how deep and loyal Talvie really is; but he really isn't. At this point, I don't think he is redeemable as a "hero." At one point Ambrose accuses Finn of being led around by his c9ck but Finn's actions are understandable as coming from the heart. Talvie is the one ruled by his lusts, making plays for power and control at every turn.
Afterwards though, the book is AMAZING. The author had a single linear focused plot with minimal revision of prior established events/facts. The author also refrained from peppering in lots of half-developed unsolved mysteries. Finn and Ambrose were given new depths. There was actual romance for Annika. Perhaps best of all, there was finally the world-building for Ertahti that had been conspicuously absent from books one and two. The book was really fun to read...
*****SPOILERS*****
...right up until Talvie reappeared. At one point the book says, “Because it seems to be the formula for all love stories,” Annika muttered. “Boy meets girl. Boy does something dumb. Girl runs away. Boy chases girl down to the ends of the earth and insists they belong together because he put in a lot of effort and she owes it to him, and she’s been conditioned by society to defer to the male ego, so she kisses her independence goodbye and they live happily ever after.” Finn then told Annika that THAT is not love but a kind of control or power over another; that true love is a shared journey that is liberating. Then Talvie reappeared and proved once again that his love isn't love at all, just like the quote. Talvie pushed Annika into a physical closeness, then went right back to ignoring her wishes, trying to make her his and only his, and telling her what to do. Annika just did what she always does with Talvie-- whatever he tells her to do. There is no romance or respect between them. She had finally started to show proper distaste/ anger for how Talvie treated her, only to curl back inside herself after they shag. It was so disappointing. And it tarnished Annika a bit for me as I felt that she cruelly used Finn and tossed him away.
This book is a cliffhanger. It also has cheating. Readers who dislike these shouldn't read this series.
I would give this book 3.5 stars if I could. I rounded up to 4 because the parts I liked, I REALLY liked. I probably won't re-read it, but this book actually does make me look forward to the next installment.
Afterwards though, the book is AMAZING. The author had a single linear focused plot with minimal revision of prior established events/facts. The author also refrained from peppering in lots of half-developed unsolved mysteries. Finn and Ambrose were given new depths. There was actual romance for Annika. Perhaps best of all, there was finally the world-building for Ertahti that had been conspicuously absent from books one and two. The book was really fun to read...
*****SPOILERS*****
...right up until Talvie reappeared. At one point the book says, “Because it seems to be the formula for all love stories,” Annika muttered. “Boy meets girl. Boy does something dumb. Girl runs away. Boy chases girl down to the ends of the earth and insists they belong together because he put in a lot of effort and she owes it to him, and she’s been conditioned by society to defer to the male ego, so she kisses her independence goodbye and they live happily ever after.” Finn then told Annika that THAT is not love but a kind of control or power over another; that true love is a shared journey that is liberating. Then Talvie reappeared and proved once again that his love isn't love at all, just like the quote. Talvie pushed Annika into a physical closeness, then went right back to ignoring her wishes, trying to make her his and only his, and telling her what to do. Annika just did what she always does with Talvie-- whatever he tells her to do. There is no romance or respect between them. She had finally started to show proper distaste/ anger for how Talvie treated her, only to curl back inside herself after they shag. It was so disappointing. And it tarnished Annika a bit for me as I felt that she cruelly used Finn and tossed him away.
This book is a cliffhanger. It also has cheating. Readers who dislike these shouldn't read this series.
I would give this book 3.5 stars if I could. I rounded up to 4 because the parts I liked, I REALLY liked. I probably won't re-read it, but this book actually does make me look forward to the next installment.
December 30, 2016
Compared to the first book, the series has gone from pages of adventure to zooming in on our main couple's intertwined lives. To go from fairy tales and burning hot love to reality and complications after the HEA, I had mixed feelings with this, for all the right reasons. In this latest installment, our girl's been kidnapped and no one knows where she is... until she's found. I won't spoil anything for you guys, but I will say that the path this book took was- well, kinda interesting. On one hand I completely agree with what's been decided, but at the same time, my heart will always and forever be with Talvi, mainly because I love how he's so flirtatious and infamous but can be so good when it comes to Annika. It just feels right and perfect and even when they do have their dramatic moments, as soon as it comes back to the root of it all, it's like falling in love all over again.
Knowing this and keeping an open mind, I was able to read all of it without too much heartache and annoyance for certain characters. And I also feel the tides changing, going from fantasy to something darker, and more serious. Very addictive. So if you love drama, romance, and fantasy, definitely check it out. This is one of the series and authors that I automatically clicked with as a reader, so I can't wait to see what happens next.
Knowing this and keeping an open mind, I was able to read all of it without too much heartache and annoyance for certain characters. And I also feel the tides changing, going from fantasy to something darker, and more serious. Very addictive. So if you love drama, romance, and fantasy, definitely check it out. This is one of the series and authors that I automatically clicked with as a reader, so I can't wait to see what happens next.
August 29, 2018
This book lived up to its Dark Fantasy Romance billing. While the first book in this series, The Flame and the Arrow was really more fantasy than either dark or romance (although there was considerable romance too), and the next one, The Silver Thread, was somewhat more romance (although of a little more disturbing sort) and also laugh-out-loud funny in places, the Dark really rises (to swipe an image from elsewhere) in The Scarlet Tanager.
It begins where The Silver Thread ends, with Annika being kidnapped by the doppelgänger Stephan, and things go downhill from there.
While Talvi and Merriweather and Finn and Asbjorn are looking in vain for Annika, it is Konstantin and Yuri (mostly Konstantin) who are summoned to bring her back. They turn her over to Finn and Asbjorn to take back to the Marinossian house to recover from the massive vampire attack she has experienced.
For a while, it looks as if things are going to get better, and there is a nice interlude where Finn takes the recovering Annika into town for a Perperuna festival – sort of an Elvin rain dance – which is quite beautiful.
But just when Talvi finally gets the message that Annika is at home and comes back, the final twist happens in a sudden burst of action, and it looks like everything is finally over. Fortunately, there’s a next book in the series.
It begins where The Silver Thread ends, with Annika being kidnapped by the doppelgänger Stephan, and things go downhill from there.
While Talvi and Merriweather and Finn and Asbjorn are looking in vain for Annika, it is Konstantin and Yuri (mostly Konstantin) who are summoned to bring her back. They turn her over to Finn and Asbjorn to take back to the Marinossian house to recover from the massive vampire attack she has experienced.
For a while, it looks as if things are going to get better, and there is a nice interlude where Finn takes the recovering Annika into town for a Perperuna festival – sort of an Elvin rain dance – which is quite beautiful.
But just when Talvi finally gets the message that Annika is at home and comes back, the final twist happens in a sudden burst of action, and it looks like everything is finally over. Fortunately, there’s a next book in the series.
July 5, 2017
Crazy...
If you're reading this review, I'm going assume you've read the preceding books as well. Therefore, this review will be one of the few I write with possible spoilers.
I so wanted to love this book. And parts of it I did. However, this book took one of my absolute most beloved characters and destroyed him. Despite everything with Finn I really wanted something good for him. But as this book continued I came to despise him. That bright the entire book down for me.
Additionally, part of what I love about these books is the interaction between Annika and Talvi, so to have a second book in a row keep them apart for the majority of it was a major disappointment for me. At one point I even had to force myself to keep reading.
Chivanni sadly ends up falling into the background, Danny is getting psycho, and Annika's family/friends all kinds of disappear also.
All that being said, the last few chapters really throw everything for a loop, and I didn't really see any of it coming. I'm still in shock even as I write this.
I hope the coming books are better than most of the middle of this one. I hope things don't go truly insane following the end of this one. I do look forward to reading the next, though it isn't without a little reservation.
If you're reading this review, I'm going assume you've read the preceding books as well. Therefore, this review will be one of the few I write with possible spoilers.
I so wanted to love this book. And parts of it I did. However, this book took one of my absolute most beloved characters and destroyed him. Despite everything with Finn I really wanted something good for him. But as this book continued I came to despise him. That bright the entire book down for me.
Additionally, part of what I love about these books is the interaction between Annika and Talvi, so to have a second book in a row keep them apart for the majority of it was a major disappointment for me. At one point I even had to force myself to keep reading.
Chivanni sadly ends up falling into the background, Danny is getting psycho, and Annika's family/friends all kinds of disappear also.
All that being said, the last few chapters really throw everything for a loop, and I didn't really see any of it coming. I'm still in shock even as I write this.
I hope the coming books are better than most of the middle of this one. I hope things don't go truly insane following the end of this one. I do look forward to reading the next, though it isn't without a little reservation.
January 4, 2017
Well Damn
This instalment of the Annika Brisby series is where things begin to get REALLY messy. Finn has to step in & care for Annika, while Talvi has no idea where she is. This makes things more than a little awkward. Most of the book is spent with Talvi & Annika separated.
The relationships between Annika & the Marrinossians are fleshing out, giving us more understanding of life on Eritähti for the Elves. We get a few choice bait moments that hint at Yuri's role in the overarching plot, while learning more about the vampires. The details of the overarching plot are still fairly blurry right now; there's no telling what's actually going to happen. We learn more about the nature of Annika & Talvi's rings, & the changes that have been caused by them.
While I am looking forward to seeing where this goes, I'm currently reeling from the ending of this instalment. I can't see how the last scene was necessary. The actions of one character are entirely out of character, & the situation they find themselves in is not one that should ever have come about. The risk posed to a life there is far too far outside the rational responses of the characters, as well as being entirely galling - there's such an extreme switch of pace it sent me reeling. That really needs addressing.
There are a few more line errors in this piece compared to the previous books. These errors are mostly grammatical. I can't help but think this book has not been so carefully edited.
With room for improvement, I enjoyed this book, & look forward to the next part.
This instalment of the Annika Brisby series is where things begin to get REALLY messy. Finn has to step in & care for Annika, while Talvi has no idea where she is. This makes things more than a little awkward. Most of the book is spent with Talvi & Annika separated.
The relationships between Annika & the Marrinossians are fleshing out, giving us more understanding of life on Eritähti for the Elves. We get a few choice bait moments that hint at Yuri's role in the overarching plot, while learning more about the vampires. The details of the overarching plot are still fairly blurry right now; there's no telling what's actually going to happen. We learn more about the nature of Annika & Talvi's rings, & the changes that have been caused by them.
While I am looking forward to seeing where this goes, I'm currently reeling from the ending of this instalment. I can't see how the last scene was necessary. The actions of one character are entirely out of character, & the situation they find themselves in is not one that should ever have come about. The risk posed to a life there is far too far outside the rational responses of the characters, as well as being entirely galling - there's such an extreme switch of pace it sent me reeling. That really needs addressing.
There are a few more line errors in this piece compared to the previous books. These errors are mostly grammatical. I can't help but think this book has not been so carefully edited.
With room for improvement, I enjoyed this book, & look forward to the next part.
August 25, 2017
This book begins right where the previous book ended - with Annika being kidnapped by a doppleganger and Talvi close on her heels. After a harrowing experience as a vampire blood slave, Annika just barely escapes with her life. While Talvi is searching for answers, his twin sister finds Annika and delivers her to his family. Under the loving care of his brother Finn, she begins to recover, but the vampires have wiped her memories, and she doesn't remember Talvi. As she grows closer to Finn, they fight the growing attraction that threatens to tear the family apart.
This entire story is told from the third person point of view. Most of the chapters focus on Annika's story, but there are occasional glimpses into the lives of other characters - not just Talvi, but other more minor characters such as Hilda and Nicola. It really made the world feel full, and kept us engaged not only in Annika's plotline, but in everything going on everywhere in this wonderful world Emigh Cannaday has created. I had originally thought this was a trilogy, but I am very excited to discover that I was wrong, and I can't wait until the next book is released.
This entire story is told from the third person point of view. Most of the chapters focus on Annika's story, but there are occasional glimpses into the lives of other characters - not just Talvi, but other more minor characters such as Hilda and Nicola. It really made the world feel full, and kept us engaged not only in Annika's plotline, but in everything going on everywhere in this wonderful world Emigh Cannaday has created. I had originally thought this was a trilogy, but I am very excited to discover that I was wrong, and I can't wait until the next book is released.
February 14, 2020
Whhhyyyyy?!?!?!?! I am not happpyyyyy!
😭😭😭😭😭
Btw, this is not as composed as my reviews tend to be.
First of all, loved the book and it's easily a 5 out of 5 for me but killing Finn?!?!??! Precious Finn?!?!?! 😩😩😩😩 I really just can't believe this at all. I'm so tired of Talvi, lol. Why couldn't he of died?!?! Idk, maybe I'm being harsh on Talvi but I just grew to love Finn's character so much and Talvi is lovable in ways but has to behave like a freaking pig half the time so it's hard to root for him 100% at this point. Then to have Finn just die like that and be ripped from the story rips out my heart in the process to be honest.
I'm definitely excited to read Book 4 and see how all of this plays out. Man, I hope somehow Finn is brought back.
Side note, this series is amazing and I legit can't put it down. Still sad over Finn but man do I adore these books!
😭😭😭😭😭
Btw, this is not as composed as my reviews tend to be.
First of all, loved the book and it's easily a 5 out of 5 for me but killing Finn?!?!??! Precious Finn?!?!?! 😩😩😩😩 I really just can't believe this at all. I'm so tired of Talvi, lol. Why couldn't he of died?!?! Idk, maybe I'm being harsh on Talvi but I just grew to love Finn's character so much and Talvi is lovable in ways but has to behave like a freaking pig half the time so it's hard to root for him 100% at this point. Then to have Finn just die like that and be ripped from the story rips out my heart in the process to be honest.
I'm definitely excited to read Book 4 and see how all of this plays out. Man, I hope somehow Finn is brought back.
Side note, this series is amazing and I legit can't put it down. Still sad over Finn but man do I adore these books!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2017
I enjoyed the book, but like the second book I felt like there was a lot of repeated information. I did not like the ending.
Spoiler....
If Taliv is such an expert on killing and weapons and is so good at it that he was the best operative that the embassy had. How could he mistaken the knife at the end not being a double edge blade? If he works in secrets and information how could he be so dense that he didn't understand Finn's first letter indicating that Annika was at his family's home? He knows his brother well and should have been able to decipher the letter without the intelligence of being a "spy". This just makes me not believe in his complex character and puts a damper on the story as a whole. I just hope the next book is better.
Spoiler....
If Taliv is such an expert on killing and weapons and is so good at it that he was the best operative that the embassy had. How could he mistaken the knife at the end not being a double edge blade? If he works in secrets and information how could he be so dense that he didn't understand Finn's first letter indicating that Annika was at his family's home? He knows his brother well and should have been able to decipher the letter without the intelligence of being a "spy". This just makes me not believe in his complex character and puts a damper on the story as a whole. I just hope the next book is better.
August 28, 2017
The Scarlet Tanager by Emigh Cannaday is the third book in the Annika Brisby series and it begins where The Silver Thread leaves off, with Annika's kidnapping. I was so angry at Talvi when I thought he was flirting with his work partner and very relieved in the next chapter when his purpose was brought to light. I absolutely love Finn and how he takes great care with Annika and Talvi seems extremely selfish compared to Finn. When Annika loses her memory, she seems completely content with Finn. I think he treats her like a queen. The narrator performs the characters' voices perfectly and endeared the characters to me. 5 stars for an elaborate fantasy in a complicated world!
August 16, 2018
An Incredible Journey
This third book was so much better than the second. There was adventure, action, attempted seduction and a to magic rivalry.
Even though this was by the same author, this just read so much better than the previous book. Sexual tension from Finn an Annika made up a good proportion of this dynamic read. Then ending, whilst it was a mild cliffhanger, was done really well. Unfortunately, it will make you get the fourth book, just to find out what happens.
Overall, a good read. It flows well, although the constantly changing POV's, can be a bit distracting.
This third book was so much better than the second. There was adventure, action, attempted seduction and a to magic rivalry.
Even though this was by the same author, this just read so much better than the previous book. Sexual tension from Finn an Annika made up a good proportion of this dynamic read. Then ending, whilst it was a mild cliffhanger, was done really well. Unfortunately, it will make you get the fourth book, just to find out what happens.
Overall, a good read. It flows well, although the constantly changing POV's, can be a bit distracting.
April 13, 2020
Sooo much better than the first two.
So I'm hanging in there to finish this series. It was rough for a while but this book kicked it up like 3 notches. I'm gonna be honest, I've always like Finn better than Talvi. He helps Annika, he cares, he thinks, he tries. I always think love is wanting the best for your partner, even if it's not necessarily what you want. Finn does that. I mean, Talvi's character is interesting, he just isn't reliable. I really enjoyed the pace of this book, it fell into a bit of a slump in the middle, but not as bad as the former books. The ending though, I'm holding out hope that it's not quite right.
So I'm hanging in there to finish this series. It was rough for a while but this book kicked it up like 3 notches. I'm gonna be honest, I've always like Finn better than Talvi. He helps Annika, he cares, he thinks, he tries. I always think love is wanting the best for your partner, even if it's not necessarily what you want. Finn does that. I mean, Talvi's character is interesting, he just isn't reliable. I really enjoyed the pace of this book, it fell into a bit of a slump in the middle, but not as bad as the former books. The ending though, I'm holding out hope that it's not quite right.
November 28, 2017
The Scarlet Tanager
I can't remember a time when I have been more emotionally manipulated by a book than I have while reading the Annika Brisby series. I have devoured these last three books! I feel as if I were just sucked into a black hole of unstable emotions, love and heartbreak.
The characters in this book are so painfully real, and the trials and tribulations suffered by these characters are felt intimately by the reader.
I would highly, highly recommend this series!
I can't remember a time when I have been more emotionally manipulated by a book than I have while reading the Annika Brisby series. I have devoured these last three books! I feel as if I were just sucked into a black hole of unstable emotions, love and heartbreak.
The characters in this book are so painfully real, and the trials and tribulations suffered by these characters are felt intimately by the reader.
I would highly, highly recommend this series!
January 3, 2018
It says something about an author that can keep a reader on the edge of their seat the entire time. The Scarlet Tangager will do that. You will get sucked in to a world you want to believe is really there. You have no idea where this story will go, and Just when you think you do, it takes another turn.
Emigh writes with passion. She keeps her characters on their toes, if they were real people, they would be dizzy. The flow and the chemistry is oozing off of the pages. You can feel all the emotions each character has. This book is a must read! I can’t wait for the next!!
Emigh writes with passion. She keeps her characters on their toes, if they were real people, they would be dizzy. The flow and the chemistry is oozing off of the pages. You can feel all the emotions each character has. This book is a must read! I can’t wait for the next!!
September 30, 2017
I am so emotional and in love with this series!!! I just finished the 3rd book at 4am this morning. I couldnt put it down! I am on edge with the ending and am slowly dying awaiting the 4th book. *sigh* 😣😢 i can not put into words of what i feel and think about this book bc i dont want to give it away but this series is a MUST read! I already hooked my roomies on them. And am definitely buying a hard copy for my personal library.
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