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Annika Brisby #2
The Silver Thread
"You know, my parents didn't give me much advice about relationships, but my mother told me that we should never go to bed upset with one another." Talvi reached am arm out to invite Annika to curl up against his chest.
"Aww, that's a sweet thing to say," she said as she cozied up in the crook of his arm. "What did your dad tell you?"
"He said to make sure the sofa was comfortable, just in case."
Talvi Marinossian has slain maenads and fought off vampire attacks, but nothing has prepared him for getting involved with one of these forbidden ‘Modern Girls’. When he finally tracks down Annika it’s obvious that she’s changed since her recent adventure in his homeland. It’s also clear that she’s not ready to embrace the next chapter in her life. He tries to persuade her to open up to him, but she finds it difficult since he won’t even explain how he earns a living, why he has a secret cell phone, or the reason he keeps another woman’s handkerchief in his pocket.
Instead of relying on Talvi to help her adjust, Annika delves into her music and her job, and it isn’t long before the new lovers find themselves completely out of sync with one another. Just when they start to find their rhythm, Talvi is called away on business and whisks Annika off to Paris for what is supposed to be a working vacation. But one bad decision leads to another, and the chaos that ensues may cost someone their life.
"Aww, that's a sweet thing to say," she said as she cozied up in the crook of his arm. "What did your dad tell you?"
"He said to make sure the sofa was comfortable, just in case."
Talvi Marinossian has slain maenads and fought off vampire attacks, but nothing has prepared him for getting involved with one of these forbidden ‘Modern Girls’. When he finally tracks down Annika it’s obvious that she’s changed since her recent adventure in his homeland. It’s also clear that she’s not ready to embrace the next chapter in her life. He tries to persuade her to open up to him, but she finds it difficult since he won’t even explain how he earns a living, why he has a secret cell phone, or the reason he keeps another woman’s handkerchief in his pocket.
Instead of relying on Talvi to help her adjust, Annika delves into her music and her job, and it isn’t long before the new lovers find themselves completely out of sync with one another. Just when they start to find their rhythm, Talvi is called away on business and whisks Annika off to Paris for what is supposed to be a working vacation. But one bad decision leads to another, and the chaos that ensues may cost someone their life.
418 pages, Paperback
First published November 30, 2012
294 people are currently reading
417 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 98 reviews
July 30, 2017
What happened? This is not the world, writing and characters I fell in love with in Flame and Arrow. It's actually so far away from it that I'm starting to wonder if the two books even was written by the same author. I mean, how does strong, confident and kind Annika turn into such a insecure and self-centered mess? When did Talvi go from elf prince to secret spy (a bad one at that)? Why did a beautiful fantasy world with amazing friendships and defining characters get replaced with this slow paced, day by boring day home life? And last but definitely not least, who slaughtered a five star book by writing this two star sequel under Emigh Cannaday's name?
One of the things I loved the most in the first book was the characters. We had Yuri, Runa, Hilda and many others that made a big appearance and gave the story many different and unique personalities that strengthened the book. However, in The Silver Thread, not only are the personalities opposite from the first book, but most of the characters we followed in Flame and Arrow does barely make it in this book, if at all. They get replaced by James, Patti Cake and Charlie instead. That might not have been as bad if the new characters actually had anything to contribute to the story. Their personalities were bland at best and we're only there to fill some space in the pages or to interrupt a good scene and make it boring and everyday life again. I could actually tell that Cannaday really wanted to make James a bigger part of the story, especially since she involved him a lot where he was not needed. Following James however, was torture. His only purpose was literally to complain and finding reasons to be rude. I found it hard to find any understanding and compassion for a character like him. Even after finishing this book I still don't understand why he was made a bigger part of the story compared to the other characters like Patti Cake and Charlie, who was actually more likable.
The one thing that absolutely bothered me the most was the conclusion as to why the relationship went bad. Basically it was decided that it was all Annika's fault. Excuse me, but it takes two to make a relationship work. Sure, Annika was a lot at fault for her jealousy and not trusting Talvi, but so was Talvi. He kept secrets, gave no explanations, flirted around and dumped Annika in a foreign country Without saying why. Well, no s**t she doesn't trust him! He gives her very little reason to! And when Talvi is tasked to think through what went wrong, all he sees is Annika at fault. And no one corrects him! Quite the opposite actually, they agree with him and Annika ends up taking all the blame. Worst of all, their solution is to let Talvi keep flirting with other women like it's no big deal. It is a big deal! Commit to the one you love or leave. There is no respectable in between, and there definitely is no respect to the one Talvi claims he loves if he finds it okay to look elsewhere.
If I'm being honest I'm struggling to even give this book two stars. The one and only thing that saves the story from one star rating is the end. I am so sad that this is how the sequel turned out. I'm also afraid to continue reading this series. The fact that there is some good qualities to this story (although few and far in between) makes me hopeful for the next book ... then again, I was hopeful for this book to when I started reading, and look how that turned out.
One of the things I loved the most in the first book was the characters. We had Yuri, Runa, Hilda and many others that made a big appearance and gave the story many different and unique personalities that strengthened the book. However, in The Silver Thread, not only are the personalities opposite from the first book, but most of the characters we followed in Flame and Arrow does barely make it in this book, if at all. They get replaced by James, Patti Cake and Charlie instead. That might not have been as bad if the new characters actually had anything to contribute to the story. Their personalities were bland at best and we're only there to fill some space in the pages or to interrupt a good scene and make it boring and everyday life again. I could actually tell that Cannaday really wanted to make James a bigger part of the story, especially since she involved him a lot where he was not needed. Following James however, was torture. His only purpose was literally to complain and finding reasons to be rude. I found it hard to find any understanding and compassion for a character like him. Even after finishing this book I still don't understand why he was made a bigger part of the story compared to the other characters like Patti Cake and Charlie, who was actually more likable.
The one thing that absolutely bothered me the most was the conclusion as to why the relationship went bad. Basically it was decided that it was all Annika's fault. Excuse me, but it takes two to make a relationship work. Sure, Annika was a lot at fault for her jealousy and not trusting Talvi, but so was Talvi. He kept secrets, gave no explanations, flirted around and dumped Annika in a foreign country Without saying why. Well, no s**t she doesn't trust him! He gives her very little reason to! And when Talvi is tasked to think through what went wrong, all he sees is Annika at fault. And no one corrects him! Quite the opposite actually, they agree with him and Annika ends up taking all the blame. Worst of all, their solution is to let Talvi keep flirting with other women like it's no big deal. It is a big deal! Commit to the one you love or leave. There is no respectable in between, and there definitely is no respect to the one Talvi claims he loves if he finds it okay to look elsewhere.
If I'm being honest I'm struggling to even give this book two stars. The one and only thing that saves the story from one star rating is the end. I am so sad that this is how the sequel turned out. I'm also afraid to continue reading this series. The fact that there is some good qualities to this story (although few and far in between) makes me hopeful for the next book ... then again, I was hopeful for this book to when I started reading, and look how that turned out.
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March 28, 2020🎁 The complete Annika Brisby Series (4 book series) is FREE on Amazon today (3/28/2020)! 🎁
September 14, 2016
Before I start my review, I would like to thank Emigh Cannaday for allowing me to review The Silver Thread.
**All opinions stated in this review are mine and mine alone. I received The Silver Thread from Emigh Cannaday for free for my honest review.”
Now onto my review:
I can’t even begin to tell you guys how excited I was when Emigh approached me to review The Silver Thread. Like fangirl excited. I think I squeed like a young girl at a One Direction concert when I saw the email from her. I had reviewed The Flame and The Arrow about 5 months ago (click here for that review) and had really enjoyed reading it, so I had high expectations for this book.
I wasn’t disappointed.
The story begins with Talvi and Chivanni at Talvi’s family’s house, discussing trying to find Annika after she was pulled through the portal at the end of The Flame and The Arrow. Talvi is also mourning the loss of his sister, Yuri, well what he considers a loss. Yuri was turned into a vampire by Konstantin in the last book, right before Annika got sucked through the portal.
After about 3 months, Talvi finds Annika in Portland (Oregon), living with her brother Charlie and his over the top gay best friend James. She had been depressed. Basically, the only thing she was doing was playing with her band, drinking and going to bed. That’s it. So when Talvi shows up, its like a switch has been thrown. She was thrown out of her depression.
This is where the book turned really good, in my opinion. Instead of having an adventure like the last book, the author chose to examine Talvi and Annika’s relationship. Sure, they were married but they were basically strangers. So when they started living together, they found out that they were very different. Very different and I hated that Annika came off as jealous in a few chapters.
Talvi was not good at communicating outside the bedroom….lol. Seriously, he never talked to Annika unless it was to be a smartass (later in the book, he was called out by his father about it). So, I really didn’t blame Annika when she starts questioning her relationship with Talvi.
I really wished that Annika could figure out who she wanted. It was driving me nuts when she was seesawing back and forth between Talvi and Finn. Her time with Finn in Paris was….interesting…..to say the least. I am glad the author went the way that she did with the storyline though.
The sex was just as good in the first book. Just as toe curling and just as hot!!! Just not as much because the author seemed to focus more on Talvi and Annika’s relationship.
I will say that I was a little disappointed that Yuri only made one appearance and that she seemed to change from the first book. I got very sad about that
**All opinions stated in this review are mine and mine alone. I received The Silver Thread from Emigh Cannaday for free for my honest review.”
Now onto my review:
I can’t even begin to tell you guys how excited I was when Emigh approached me to review The Silver Thread. Like fangirl excited. I think I squeed like a young girl at a One Direction concert when I saw the email from her. I had reviewed The Flame and The Arrow about 5 months ago (click here for that review) and had really enjoyed reading it, so I had high expectations for this book.
I wasn’t disappointed.
The story begins with Talvi and Chivanni at Talvi’s family’s house, discussing trying to find Annika after she was pulled through the portal at the end of The Flame and The Arrow. Talvi is also mourning the loss of his sister, Yuri, well what he considers a loss. Yuri was turned into a vampire by Konstantin in the last book, right before Annika got sucked through the portal.
After about 3 months, Talvi finds Annika in Portland (Oregon), living with her brother Charlie and his over the top gay best friend James. She had been depressed. Basically, the only thing she was doing was playing with her band, drinking and going to bed. That’s it. So when Talvi shows up, its like a switch has been thrown. She was thrown out of her depression.
This is where the book turned really good, in my opinion. Instead of having an adventure like the last book, the author chose to examine Talvi and Annika’s relationship. Sure, they were married but they were basically strangers. So when they started living together, they found out that they were very different. Very different and I hated that Annika came off as jealous in a few chapters.
Talvi was not good at communicating outside the bedroom….lol. Seriously, he never talked to Annika unless it was to be a smartass (later in the book, he was called out by his father about it). So, I really didn’t blame Annika when she starts questioning her relationship with Talvi.
I really wished that Annika could figure out who she wanted. It was driving me nuts when she was seesawing back and forth between Talvi and Finn. Her time with Finn in Paris was….interesting…..to say the least. I am glad the author went the way that she did with the storyline though.
The sex was just as good in the first book. Just as toe curling and just as hot!!! Just not as much because the author seemed to focus more on Talvi and Annika’s relationship.
I will say that I was a little disappointed that Yuri only made one appearance and that she seemed to change from the first book. I got very sad about that
December 8, 2017
Not sure, a generous 3 stars because I finished.
A bit bigoted toward mothers, children, stay at home mothers with no income (those are called "kept women", lol, and apparently they watch tv all day while folding their "rich" husband's clothes). Last book had some fat shaming and blonde stereotype crap, but it wasn't 1/2 of the book. This was just overkill of some bitterness from someone's personal life I think.
MC is beyond selfish, shallow a-hole. He isn't much himself, but I think he's better than her. Her "husband" is neglected and she's perpetually jealous of other women she imagines he might want. She goes months without her new husband (supposedly grieving) and then when he finds her she is a cold fish. He goes another month without her affections and then he won't resume intimacy until she dyes her hair back to red. (She actually thinks this is sweet because he "won't cheat on her with herself" or some such nonsense). Heaven forbid she ever go natural or change colors. He won't be interested. She's 24, seriously. Target audience should be adult and main character should act her age, not 14.
A bit bigoted toward mothers, children, stay at home mothers with no income (those are called "kept women", lol, and apparently they watch tv all day while folding their "rich" husband's clothes). Last book had some fat shaming and blonde stereotype crap, but it wasn't 1/2 of the book. This was just overkill of some bitterness from someone's personal life I think.
MC is beyond selfish, shallow a-hole. He isn't much himself, but I think he's better than her. Her "husband" is neglected and she's perpetually jealous of other women she imagines he might want. She goes months without her new husband (supposedly grieving) and then when he finds her she is a cold fish. He goes another month without her affections and then he won't resume intimacy until she dyes her hair back to red. (She actually thinks this is sweet because he "won't cheat on her with herself" or some such nonsense). Heaven forbid she ever go natural or change colors. He won't be interested. She's 24, seriously. Target audience should be adult and main character should act her age, not 14.
April 29, 2018
Hmmmm.....
So I absolutely loved the magic of the first book. This book was a 180... not in a bad way though. This one had more humor I laughed out loud more times then I could count. This book took the magic away and taught you a lesson about love, trust, and relationships! I can't wait to start the next one!!
So I absolutely loved the magic of the first book. This book was a 180... not in a bad way though. This one had more humor I laughed out loud more times then I could count. This book took the magic away and taught you a lesson about love, trust, and relationships! I can't wait to start the next one!!
March 16, 2017
The silver Thread is a tricky one for me, I so adored the first book in this series, but this one I had a bit of trouble digesting and at times it left me with a very sour taste.
This story picks up where the first story ended with Annika transported through the portal and deposited back in her own world with Talvi in hot pursuit.
The silver thread mostly takes place in the modern world, with a few side excursions into Talvi's magical lands & also to Paris, which I will get to later.
Right, so I'm gonna describe the issues I had with this story.
This may be just me as what's one persons brass is another's gold so what drives me doolally
might actually be your cup of tea.
My first issue is that bloody bath Talvi had with Runa, I don't care how close you are you can be BFF's forever,
YOU JUST DONT BATHE WITH YOUR ATTRACTIVE FEMALE BFF
Serious no no. Talvi needs to learn some boundaries that is so not cool I would be livid with my other half if this occurred, this is so a dumping offence.
Issue number two, After being practically an alcoholic, agoraphobic mess Talvi has only been with Annika twenty-four hours and she is knocking him and wingeing. Geez girl you were practically expiring without your beloved hubby and now your being a complete cow what gives.
issue three for me is Talvi's close relationship with Patti-cake, he was nicer to her than his own wife.No wonder Annika doesn't trust him as far as she can throw, his constant flirting is just too much I understand its part of his charm and personality but have a little respect laddie.
Issue four Dumping your wife in a foreign country with your brother is so not on, maybe if you explained rather than just did it would make a difference.
I'm not even gonna get into Paris its a case of,
WHAT HAPPENS IN PARIS STAYS IN PARIS!
so with all this you would think I hated this book, I actually didn't, It was well written and the writing flowed, it also kept my interest, I just found Talvi & Annika equally unlikable and like a pair of spoiled babies which detracted slightly from my enjoyment.
maybe me being an oldie at forty-three and with my partner for twenty years has made me a shade set in my ways of what I expect a relationship to entail but Talvi & Annika need a bloody intervention and they have only been together literally five minutes.
Now the final part of this book we get somewhere and both of our spoiled kiddies redeem themselves in finally opening up to each other.
YAY!!! give the kids a gold star he he.
So in conclusion, The Silver Thread even with the above issues that bothered me was an enjoyable read for me. It flowed fluently and was expertly written, perhaps I didn't enjoy it as much as the first in this series but it had its own merits.I will be reading book three and I'm hoping Annika & Talvi have grown up a little especially Annika as there were times I wanted to scream at her for being such a pig. fingers crossed for that.
I've rated this three stars but it's more a three & half for me.
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https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
This story picks up where the first story ended with Annika transported through the portal and deposited back in her own world with Talvi in hot pursuit.
The silver thread mostly takes place in the modern world, with a few side excursions into Talvi's magical lands & also to Paris, which I will get to later.
Right, so I'm gonna describe the issues I had with this story.
This may be just me as what's one persons brass is another's gold so what drives me doolally
might actually be your cup of tea.
My first issue is that bloody bath Talvi had with Runa, I don't care how close you are you can be BFF's forever,
YOU JUST DONT BATHE WITH YOUR ATTRACTIVE FEMALE BFF
Serious no no. Talvi needs to learn some boundaries that is so not cool I would be livid with my other half if this occurred, this is so a dumping offence.
Issue number two, After being practically an alcoholic, agoraphobic mess Talvi has only been with Annika twenty-four hours and she is knocking him and wingeing. Geez girl you were practically expiring without your beloved hubby and now your being a complete cow what gives.
issue three for me is Talvi's close relationship with Patti-cake, he was nicer to her than his own wife.No wonder Annika doesn't trust him as far as she can throw, his constant flirting is just too much I understand its part of his charm and personality but have a little respect laddie.
Issue four Dumping your wife in a foreign country with your brother is so not on, maybe if you explained rather than just did it would make a difference.
I'm not even gonna get into Paris its a case of,
WHAT HAPPENS IN PARIS STAYS IN PARIS!
so with all this you would think I hated this book, I actually didn't, It was well written and the writing flowed, it also kept my interest, I just found Talvi & Annika equally unlikable and like a pair of spoiled babies which detracted slightly from my enjoyment.
maybe me being an oldie at forty-three and with my partner for twenty years has made me a shade set in my ways of what I expect a relationship to entail but Talvi & Annika need a bloody intervention and they have only been together literally five minutes.
Now the final part of this book we get somewhere and both of our spoiled kiddies redeem themselves in finally opening up to each other.
YAY!!! give the kids a gold star he he.
So in conclusion, The Silver Thread even with the above issues that bothered me was an enjoyable read for me. It flowed fluently and was expertly written, perhaps I didn't enjoy it as much as the first in this series but it had its own merits.I will be reading book three and I'm hoping Annika & Talvi have grown up a little especially Annika as there were times I wanted to scream at her for being such a pig. fingers crossed for that.
I've rated this three stars but it's more a three & half for me.
https://www.beckiebookworm.com/
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
May 8, 2016
The Silver Thread picks up right where the first book left off. Talvi has found Annika after 3 months of searching. Unfortunately, Annika doesn't seem that thrilled to see him. She is distant and busy trying to fit back into the life she had before meeting Talvi. This in turn makes Talvi wonder if Annika regrets marrying him. Annika is concerned that her “Casanova” can never settle down with her but will always be looking for the next female to bed. Talvi feels that Annika is not the same woman that he married. Add in a bunch of secrets on both of their ends, plus Talvi trying to fit into a world that he doesn't belong in, and you have a recipe for disaster.
First off, there may be some mild spoilers ahead.
Honestly, I didn't like this book near as much as the first one. Annika comes off as cold, unfeeling, and worried only about having everything exactly the way she wants it. Talvi flirts with every woman possible and vacillates between being a lap dog and a jerk. There is also much more cursing (foul language) in this book than in the first one.
Also, as two of the more important characters (friends of Annika's and Talvi's, but important in this book) are gay, there are a lot of references and innuendos. Personally, I prefer if books offer a disclaimer when this becomes a prominent issue in the book.
I love Finn, but hate to see a love triangle come about. The whole Paris trip was uncomfortable at best. Talvi seems like a major let-down after seeing how Finn interacts with Annika. Both Talvi and Annika seem greatly changed from the first book.
There wasn't much action in this book until the very end. The majority of the story is spent with Annika and Talvi going back and forth at each other. One minute, they have forgiven one another and are in love, the next minute, someone is flirting or saying something totally devastating to the other person.
With all of that being said, at the end of the book, I did see why The Silver Thread is set up the way that it is. It develops the characters much more thoroughly and leaves us with a cliffhanger of an ending. I loved the first book, tolerated the second one, but I have high hopes for book number 3.
Disclaimer: I received this book free in return for a honest review.
First off, there may be some mild spoilers ahead.
Honestly, I didn't like this book near as much as the first one. Annika comes off as cold, unfeeling, and worried only about having everything exactly the way she wants it. Talvi flirts with every woman possible and vacillates between being a lap dog and a jerk. There is also much more cursing (foul language) in this book than in the first one.
Also, as two of the more important characters (friends of Annika's and Talvi's, but important in this book) are gay, there are a lot of references and innuendos. Personally, I prefer if books offer a disclaimer when this becomes a prominent issue in the book.
I love Finn, but hate to see a love triangle come about. The whole Paris trip was uncomfortable at best. Talvi seems like a major let-down after seeing how Finn interacts with Annika. Both Talvi and Annika seem greatly changed from the first book.
There wasn't much action in this book until the very end. The majority of the story is spent with Annika and Talvi going back and forth at each other. One minute, they have forgiven one another and are in love, the next minute, someone is flirting or saying something totally devastating to the other person.
With all of that being said, at the end of the book, I did see why The Silver Thread is set up the way that it is. It develops the characters much more thoroughly and leaves us with a cliffhanger of an ending. I loved the first book, tolerated the second one, but I have high hopes for book number 3.
Disclaimer: I received this book free in return for a honest review.
July 16, 2017
Annika was returned home after her idea fixed the block of the portal. Months of separation drive both her and Talvi mad until he can take no more and goes out of his way to find her. Once they reunite, the magic doesn't seem to last long. Soon they are trying to figure out if they are compatible and if they made a mistake in getting married. Can they reconnect or is the honeymoon over for these two?
I really adored this book! A lot of books I read that are in a series, I love all of the series, but usually, the first book is always my favorite. Not this time, though. I loved this book way more than I loved the first one! And that's saying a lot since I LOVED the first one! I feel like I could relate to a lot of the characters.
The only thing I didn't like so much was that a few of the characters that I adore very much didn't get as much of a highlight in this book. A few of them were mentioned and given a few places here and there, but they weren't in the book as much as I liked them to be. But this is more of a personal thing than a critique of the book.
The plot in this book was amazing. I saw some reviews about the book not really having a plot, but I disagree with that. Yes, it could have been elaborated and tightened up a bit more, but it was still great! I could make a critique on the foreshadowing storyline, but getting into it would put spoilers in my review.
I loved all of the characters. They were so relatable. I love how sassy Talvi and Annika are. And honestly, Finn is a total book boyfriend for me. I can't remember his name, but the fairy that went with Talvi was my absolute favorite character. He was just so hilarious!!!
I chose to give this book a full star review because it's just amazing. I can not wait to dive right into the third book! I fell in love with this story. I fell in love with the characters. And I will not spoil anything, but I find the author highly evil. I'll leave it at that. I fully recommend this book!
I really adored this book! A lot of books I read that are in a series, I love all of the series, but usually, the first book is always my favorite. Not this time, though. I loved this book way more than I loved the first one! And that's saying a lot since I LOVED the first one! I feel like I could relate to a lot of the characters.
The only thing I didn't like so much was that a few of the characters that I adore very much didn't get as much of a highlight in this book. A few of them were mentioned and given a few places here and there, but they weren't in the book as much as I liked them to be. But this is more of a personal thing than a critique of the book.
The plot in this book was amazing. I saw some reviews about the book not really having a plot, but I disagree with that. Yes, it could have been elaborated and tightened up a bit more, but it was still great! I could make a critique on the foreshadowing storyline, but getting into it would put spoilers in my review.
I loved all of the characters. They were so relatable. I love how sassy Talvi and Annika are. And honestly, Finn is a total book boyfriend for me. I can't remember his name, but the fairy that went with Talvi was my absolute favorite character. He was just so hilarious!!!
I chose to give this book a full star review because it's just amazing. I can not wait to dive right into the third book! I fell in love with this story. I fell in love with the characters. And I will not spoil anything, but I find the author highly evil. I'll leave it at that. I fully recommend this book!
January 30, 2022
Annika Brisby Book Two: Better than the First!
I wasn’t in love with Annika and Talvi in the first novel in Emigh Cannaday’s series. The plot was great, but I felt the story lines were not matched by the character and relationships development, and that sometimes there were either too many setting details or too few. The second novel is MUCH more balanced, much more engaging, and I’m so glad I stuck it out!
Part of the reason I felt uncomfortable with Annika and Talvi’s love story was that I thought Talvi’s back story as a serial womanizer was a bit too much to overcome, and also that Talvi’s older brother Finn was more attractive in my mind than Talvi himself. Cannaday craftily deals with my reservations head-on in Book 2, spending the bulk of the narrative with the main characters on Earth, in Portland and Paris, as well as periodically giving the reader a glimpse of the lives of secondary characters in the fae world.
Instead of flaws, the oddities I felt concerned about in the first book are grist for the mill in the second. Now things begin to unravel and reveal themselves. And the central plot device in the first book , the portals closing, hardly comes up in the second book! Book 3 has A LOT to reconcile and tie up!
I won’t say more, other than I am glad to be able to go on to read the third book without delay. Just like in Book 1, the author has ended Book 2 with a knife-edged cliff-hanger.
I wasn’t in love with Annika and Talvi in the first novel in Emigh Cannaday’s series. The plot was great, but I felt the story lines were not matched by the character and relationships development, and that sometimes there were either too many setting details or too few. The second novel is MUCH more balanced, much more engaging, and I’m so glad I stuck it out!
Part of the reason I felt uncomfortable with Annika and Talvi’s love story was that I thought Talvi’s back story as a serial womanizer was a bit too much to overcome, and also that Talvi’s older brother Finn was more attractive in my mind than Talvi himself. Cannaday craftily deals with my reservations head-on in Book 2, spending the bulk of the narrative with the main characters on Earth, in Portland and Paris, as well as periodically giving the reader a glimpse of the lives of secondary characters in the fae world.
Instead of flaws, the oddities I felt concerned about in the first book are grist for the mill in the second. Now things begin to unravel and reveal themselves. And the central plot device in the first book , the portals closing, hardly comes up in the second book! Book 3 has A LOT to reconcile and tie up!
I won’t say more, other than I am glad to be able to go on to read the third book without delay. Just like in Book 1, the author has ended Book 2 with a knife-edged cliff-hanger.
February 6, 2017
I gave one star to the first book in this series, but because I'm a completist I decided to continue.
Language-wise, the writing is better. I can tell the author has improved. She also gets a plus for including queer characters, though personally I thought they were a bit stereotypical. So it's not all bad. But it's not good either.
The biggest problem is that NOTHING HAPPENS. I really can't describe the plot, because there isn't one. It's just the boring day to day life of Annika and Talvi as newlyweds. Also, not a single character is actually likeable.
I've always thought of this series as fantasy romance, but this book doesn't really follow any traditional romance format. It's actually more fantasy drama, with very little fantasy at that.
Conclusion: It's not a good book.
Language-wise, the writing is better. I can tell the author has improved. She also gets a plus for including queer characters, though personally I thought they were a bit stereotypical. So it's not all bad. But it's not good either.
The biggest problem is that NOTHING HAPPENS. I really can't describe the plot, because there isn't one. It's just the boring day to day life of Annika and Talvi as newlyweds. Also, not a single character is actually likeable.
I've always thought of this series as fantasy romance, but this book doesn't really follow any traditional romance format. It's actually more fantasy drama, with very little fantasy at that.
Conclusion: It's not a good book.
November 16, 2017
Could not finish this book. The main characters did nothing but complain. It was painful to read. Can't believe this is the same author of the first book. I am so sad, I was so in love with the first one. This was one of three books I have ever not finished.
September 4, 2024
I guess I am the outlier here, but I don't get all the high reviews. I got all 3 in a bundle I intend to read them all, but I have thoughts.
*****SPOILERS*****
Book 2 is a eclectic mess that pushes the series into a literal grab bag of archetypes. Plus, you can't really trust anything the author writes because she changes the meanings of words (using "partner" to suggest a past or possibly current lover, then later clarifying that "partner" means that but a work partner too), and headlining situations (Talvie is some sort of trader wandering where he wills, changes into Talvie is some sort of Elven FBI agent; Finn is way into Hilda, but then is way into Annika). The worst instance was when Talvie crashed Patti's car. The author described Annika being sick and Talvie holding her hair back when police showed up and asked for ID and registration and the glove box fell open dumping out, well I'd what, while they exclaim that the car is not theirs. It sounded like candy and drug paraphernalia so I anticipated them being arrested for possession, but then the author said they were charged with lewd & lascivious conduct. I literally flipped back and re-read the prior pages like 3 times because it just didn't make any sense and I thought I had missed something or misread it. Further into the book they finally clarify that nothing lewd happened that the lady whose tree they hit said they acting naughty. This after-the-fact clarifying happens way too often. The constant shifting around of what has happened feels as contrived as it is, and is super frustrating when you're trying to get a sense for who the characters are; how can they grow if you are still establishing who they are and what they have done far into book 2? Talvie can't lie as he has a tell --> jk Talvie's actually a world class liar and his tell is orchestrated to manipulate others...etc., etc., etc.
Talvie was detestable in book 1 and he continues that trend in book 2. He begins the book by taking a bath with Runa and even feeling her up while confusing her for Annika in his depression. It is completely against what the author has said about him-- that he's fiercely loyal to those he loves. Then, he proceeds to distance himself from his wife and to particularly befriend her best friend just because he doesn't like how Annika was less than thrilled to see him, and how she was unhappy that he would share literally nothing about himself, outside of his past philandering, with her. He basically acts like a giant entitled toddler and throws his friendship with Patti in Annika's face, giving Patti the closeness Annika wants. He knows she has been ill enough to think she was pregnant, but actually is taking on Elven traits, but he doesn't even bother to tell her anything about being an Elf, leaving her all alone with scary changes to her body. And pitches a fit when she wants to work and be herself because that's all she knows. At one point he drags her off to Paris under the pretense of a romantic getaway but he then dumps her off on his brother for AN INDETERMINATE AMOUNT OF TIME. And he is somehow shocked and angry that Annika doesn't trust him?! Talvie is supposed to be older and smart...but he is actually incredibly self-centered to the point of stupidity. He nearly kills his brother over something that could've been resolved by talking. In this book he is suddenly a world class liar and now readers have no idea what is true or false or whether he's at all credible. And he is literally drunk or high ALL THE TIME.
Annika was terribly flawed in book 1 but at least she was strong for most of the book; she joins Talvie in her destability in book 2. She continues to use alcohol as a crutch. And she is downright mean to Talvie at times. She regularly pushes him into answering questions she knows she won't like the answer to and then uses the answer as an excuse for her anger with him. Although at times I can understand her anger. It's her apathy I don't get-- she doesn't act like she loves Talvie or even likes him as she coldly pursues her old life making no consideration for him at all. Then, lusting after Finn...again. At least this time she could blame her hybrid transformation.
And suddenly Talvie is Elven agent/ assassin and there's a doppelganger. The Paris Embassy mystery remains unsolved; Annika's amulet goes missing (again); Talvie's family hints at a scandalous/ mysterious past with his stalker ex; Denalia went missing; Hilda is off who knows who; and there I s maybe some elf working with the doppelganger. Too many unanswered questions. The bulk of book 2 is devoted to Annika & Talvie's childish bickering which could all have been solved with Frank conversation. That is not a real problem but a plot disaster that is a boring and frustrating to slogfest.
I suppose I should be grateful that the grammar, editor, and writing style are actually really great, but what good is that without substance? No way is this a 5 star book.
*****SPOILERS*****
Book 2 is a eclectic mess that pushes the series into a literal grab bag of archetypes. Plus, you can't really trust anything the author writes because she changes the meanings of words (using "partner" to suggest a past or possibly current lover, then later clarifying that "partner" means that but a work partner too), and headlining situations (Talvie is some sort of trader wandering where he wills, changes into Talvie is some sort of Elven FBI agent; Finn is way into Hilda, but then is way into Annika). The worst instance was when Talvie crashed Patti's car. The author described Annika being sick and Talvie holding her hair back when police showed up and asked for ID and registration and the glove box fell open dumping out, well I'd what, while they exclaim that the car is not theirs. It sounded like candy and drug paraphernalia so I anticipated them being arrested for possession, but then the author said they were charged with lewd & lascivious conduct. I literally flipped back and re-read the prior pages like 3 times because it just didn't make any sense and I thought I had missed something or misread it. Further into the book they finally clarify that nothing lewd happened that the lady whose tree they hit said they acting naughty. This after-the-fact clarifying happens way too often. The constant shifting around of what has happened feels as contrived as it is, and is super frustrating when you're trying to get a sense for who the characters are; how can they grow if you are still establishing who they are and what they have done far into book 2? Talvie can't lie as he has a tell --> jk Talvie's actually a world class liar and his tell is orchestrated to manipulate others...etc., etc., etc.
Talvie was detestable in book 1 and he continues that trend in book 2. He begins the book by taking a bath with Runa and even feeling her up while confusing her for Annika in his depression. It is completely against what the author has said about him-- that he's fiercely loyal to those he loves. Then, he proceeds to distance himself from his wife and to particularly befriend her best friend just because he doesn't like how Annika was less than thrilled to see him, and how she was unhappy that he would share literally nothing about himself, outside of his past philandering, with her. He basically acts like a giant entitled toddler and throws his friendship with Patti in Annika's face, giving Patti the closeness Annika wants. He knows she has been ill enough to think she was pregnant, but actually is taking on Elven traits, but he doesn't even bother to tell her anything about being an Elf, leaving her all alone with scary changes to her body. And pitches a fit when she wants to work and be herself because that's all she knows. At one point he drags her off to Paris under the pretense of a romantic getaway but he then dumps her off on his brother for AN INDETERMINATE AMOUNT OF TIME. And he is somehow shocked and angry that Annika doesn't trust him?! Talvie is supposed to be older and smart...but he is actually incredibly self-centered to the point of stupidity. He nearly kills his brother over something that could've been resolved by talking. In this book he is suddenly a world class liar and now readers have no idea what is true or false or whether he's at all credible. And he is literally drunk or high ALL THE TIME.
Annika was terribly flawed in book 1 but at least she was strong for most of the book; she joins Talvie in her destability in book 2. She continues to use alcohol as a crutch. And she is downright mean to Talvie at times. She regularly pushes him into answering questions she knows she won't like the answer to and then uses the answer as an excuse for her anger with him. Although at times I can understand her anger. It's her apathy I don't get-- she doesn't act like she loves Talvie or even likes him as she coldly pursues her old life making no consideration for him at all. Then, lusting after Finn...again. At least this time she could blame her hybrid transformation.
And suddenly Talvie is Elven agent/ assassin and there's a doppelganger. The Paris Embassy mystery remains unsolved; Annika's amulet goes missing (again); Talvie's family hints at a scandalous/ mysterious past with his stalker ex; Denalia went missing; Hilda is off who knows who; and there I s maybe some elf working with the doppelganger. Too many unanswered questions. The bulk of book 2 is devoted to Annika & Talvie's childish bickering which could all have been solved with Frank conversation. That is not a real problem but a plot disaster that is a boring and frustrating to slogfest.
I suppose I should be grateful that the grammar, editor, and writing style are actually really great, but what good is that without substance? No way is this a 5 star book.
Read
March 18, 2022Normally I write a series review but this particular book deserves it’s own. It is obviously a controversial book from the reviews I have read here but I can tell that few reviewers have actually experienced this type of relationship. I have. And I can tell you, it often plays out just like the relationship of Talvi and Annika: Messy. Complicated. Rife with misconceptions, miscommunications and no common point reference for understanding but a commonality of basic life view. Plenty to build on.
When I read the book a second time, I comprehend more easily what this book conveys in terms of evolving intimacy from an unusual, by western perspectives, beginning. But to evaluate this based on an insular understanding is a big mistake. Fifty five percent of the world’s marriages are arranged. Not much more than the marriage contract to build upon.
How well the author conveys the essence of such personalities in a destined marriage-arranged-makes me realize she must have personal experience with these type of personalities to allow her to portray the issues so clearly. Also, she totally nails a male Scorpio in both extremes of good and bad behavior.
That said, there is honestly nothing impressive with so called ‘best friend’ Patti that after only two short visits with her Talvi and Chiavanni are utterly enraptured to the point of spontaneously demanding Patti move with with the newlyweds in a house that belongs to neither of them so they can “take care of van her”. And without consulting first with anyone! There was nothing to lift Patti Cake out of the ordinary beyond her cutesy nickname. Simply saying she’s special is worthless without substance to back it up and does not create a character the reader can believe in with anything but irritation. She’s a closet antagonist thrown in the mix to create more friction between the unhappy couple. Though she pretends to be such a dear friend, she obviously has a self serving crush on Talvi. I don’t buy the “innocent” nature of their interaction nor that only Annika can see it. Charlie, at least, would. James is a closer friend of Annika than Patti and his bizarre lack of loyalty to Annika makes no sense.
Talvi is the past master of seduction. He knows exactly what his affect he has on Patti and he deliberately uses it to repay Annika for her very real, careless slights. This ability to gauge his affect on women is integral to who Talvi is both professionally and personally. Though he is slowly understanding he has different parameters now he is married, he still uses his seduction as the weapon he honed. And he aimed it at Patti. As a supreme manipulator, he is astute enough to set up the situation to serve himself best, yet he denies the effect it has on Annika.
When you find yourself in a relationship with someone like Talvi, it’s difficult to really grasp your impact on that person or have confidence in it. Talvi doesn’t understand yet that he has to choose not to use those skills in a way that doesn’t slight his commitment to his wife. He has only begun to understand boundaries in flirting and seduction. It is masterful in the understanding of relationship pitfalls in the context of these personalities. If you are not familiar with these dynamics, you may find them annoying and unbelievable, but I find them entirely convincing even if it makes me want to slap them all at various times.
But it is in her interaction with James that I understand why Annika actually is a sweet person. And yeah, I have personally know people just like James. High maintenance but charismatic in their own way. He deserves at times to be slapped as much as Talvi.
The key to liking this book is an understanding of situations outside of preconceived ideas or personal experience. Love is very convoluted and difficult with people in general. More so between people who have to build from the ground up.
When I read the book a second time, I comprehend more easily what this book conveys in terms of evolving intimacy from an unusual, by western perspectives, beginning. But to evaluate this based on an insular understanding is a big mistake. Fifty five percent of the world’s marriages are arranged. Not much more than the marriage contract to build upon.
How well the author conveys the essence of such personalities in a destined marriage-arranged-makes me realize she must have personal experience with these type of personalities to allow her to portray the issues so clearly. Also, she totally nails a male Scorpio in both extremes of good and bad behavior.
That said, there is honestly nothing impressive with so called ‘best friend’ Patti that after only two short visits with her Talvi and Chiavanni are utterly enraptured to the point of spontaneously demanding Patti move with with the newlyweds in a house that belongs to neither of them so they can “take care of van her”. And without consulting first with anyone! There was nothing to lift Patti Cake out of the ordinary beyond her cutesy nickname. Simply saying she’s special is worthless without substance to back it up and does not create a character the reader can believe in with anything but irritation. She’s a closet antagonist thrown in the mix to create more friction between the unhappy couple. Though she pretends to be such a dear friend, she obviously has a self serving crush on Talvi. I don’t buy the “innocent” nature of their interaction nor that only Annika can see it. Charlie, at least, would. James is a closer friend of Annika than Patti and his bizarre lack of loyalty to Annika makes no sense.
Talvi is the past master of seduction. He knows exactly what his affect he has on Patti and he deliberately uses it to repay Annika for her very real, careless slights. This ability to gauge his affect on women is integral to who Talvi is both professionally and personally. Though he is slowly understanding he has different parameters now he is married, he still uses his seduction as the weapon he honed. And he aimed it at Patti. As a supreme manipulator, he is astute enough to set up the situation to serve himself best, yet he denies the effect it has on Annika.
When you find yourself in a relationship with someone like Talvi, it’s difficult to really grasp your impact on that person or have confidence in it. Talvi doesn’t understand yet that he has to choose not to use those skills in a way that doesn’t slight his commitment to his wife. He has only begun to understand boundaries in flirting and seduction. It is masterful in the understanding of relationship pitfalls in the context of these personalities. If you are not familiar with these dynamics, you may find them annoying and unbelievable, but I find them entirely convincing even if it makes me want to slap them all at various times.
But it is in her interaction with James that I understand why Annika actually is a sweet person. And yeah, I have personally know people just like James. High maintenance but charismatic in their own way. He deserves at times to be slapped as much as Talvi.
The key to liking this book is an understanding of situations outside of preconceived ideas or personal experience. Love is very convoluted and difficult with people in general. More so between people who have to build from the ground up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2017
As the inevitable explanations to his parents regarding the events and outcomes of their mission to put a stop to the Pavacci turns to his missing twin so they reach their crescendo. Talvi manages, at recurrent costs to his melancholy, to dredge up his memories whilst keeping his mind open, so that his parents might see the events unfold for themselves. He can no longer imagine what it was like to live in the emotionless bubble he'd created since hearing for the first time that a stranger to their world would steel his heart and wed him following his three-hundredth birthday The feelings of hurt and loss expanding again, for its not that just his new wife is missing, its also that his twin sister is absent by her own choices, unlike his wife; who was sucked from his arms into the portal correcting itself and leaving him with the last seen image of her face showing it's fears and shock that echoed his own at that time. Finishing off his night of tales and harsh memories, Talvi envies the horses and pony he'd returned to outside, to see them properly tended against the freezing winter snow that continues to fall in a frozen mockery of his own tears that can no longer fall. In the animals now stabled with their needs met, its the lack of worries and of having to keep hunting for their needs, for the contentment he sees on their faces he now grows jealous of their simpler lives.
Annika was taken from their world and returned to her home world before any of what had happened had been given the necessary time to be resolved. She might have made it back to the place she lived with her brother and good friend in one piece, but to say that she was whole would be a mistake. In the absence of her husband during what was essentially the honeymoon period, many of her fears over the commitments have taken root and warped her ideas and resolution. She may have defended herself and her loved ones from the conflict with the Pavacci but the knowledge of the things she was forced to partake of have festered her spirit. Resolving to hide from her world and her family and friends Annika sunk into a pit of unacknowledged depression and guilt; drinking away her feelings and thoughts at the bottom of a vodka bottle. Whilst a few months passed before Talvi was ready and able to transport to her world in order to find her, the wife that was pulled from his arms and the wife he finds hidden behind her mask of normalcy is a sad half-measure. Because Talvi was involved in so many of the things she hates about her life Annika has grown to attribute Talvi as one of the causes. As readers know from book one, this compounds her life because Talvi with a wounded sense of self is akin to a wounded bull.
Whilst other things begin to take hold those who would otherwise be motivated to contend with the wrong of these events become too involved in licking their wounds, or trying to enjoy the good which has come, to be able to recognise their old efforts being undone. Given the changes in Yuri, as she takes on more of her undead nature and the side of herself that she'd hidden from those who thought they knew her, she is fast becoming the epitome of what her family fought to prevent taking hold, for generation after generation. With mounting bitterness and unaccustomed changes in our once heroes and heroines, there's little left to identify and intercede where things are growing bad, including the escape of yound Danalia, ophaned by the killing of her parents; zealots in the Pavacci. Revenge is what motivates her and she is resourceful to say the least. Although others seek to motivate the necessary people to put a stop to the changes coming that will mean bad times ahead, those who they need to rise up again are too consumed with their own misery to care.
High in life and relationship dramas The Silver Thread tales a magnifying glass to the inabilities of dealing with guilt and being unable to trust. The analogous nature of how what Annika was fleeing when she originally travelled to Sofia has now happened nonetheless causes her to begin attributing the mistakes perceived in her life. Likewise Talvi too has done what he swore he never would and in part cannot escape the doubts that he contributed to the prophecy coming true; which leaves the realisation of whether he contributed to what has befallen Yuri. It seems the flavours of The Silver Thread are self and other evaluations at their cores. This second book draws the perception that instead of being a fantasy drama it might be more accurate to say its a drama fantasy. The first category sums up the core nature of the book whilst the second sums up its themes. This is congruous with the first Annika Brisby novel which is very much about the lives of the characters in general.
Annika was taken from their world and returned to her home world before any of what had happened had been given the necessary time to be resolved. She might have made it back to the place she lived with her brother and good friend in one piece, but to say that she was whole would be a mistake. In the absence of her husband during what was essentially the honeymoon period, many of her fears over the commitments have taken root and warped her ideas and resolution. She may have defended herself and her loved ones from the conflict with the Pavacci but the knowledge of the things she was forced to partake of have festered her spirit. Resolving to hide from her world and her family and friends Annika sunk into a pit of unacknowledged depression and guilt; drinking away her feelings and thoughts at the bottom of a vodka bottle. Whilst a few months passed before Talvi was ready and able to transport to her world in order to find her, the wife that was pulled from his arms and the wife he finds hidden behind her mask of normalcy is a sad half-measure. Because Talvi was involved in so many of the things she hates about her life Annika has grown to attribute Talvi as one of the causes. As readers know from book one, this compounds her life because Talvi with a wounded sense of self is akin to a wounded bull.
Whilst other things begin to take hold those who would otherwise be motivated to contend with the wrong of these events become too involved in licking their wounds, or trying to enjoy the good which has come, to be able to recognise their old efforts being undone. Given the changes in Yuri, as she takes on more of her undead nature and the side of herself that she'd hidden from those who thought they knew her, she is fast becoming the epitome of what her family fought to prevent taking hold, for generation after generation. With mounting bitterness and unaccustomed changes in our once heroes and heroines, there's little left to identify and intercede where things are growing bad, including the escape of yound Danalia, ophaned by the killing of her parents; zealots in the Pavacci. Revenge is what motivates her and she is resourceful to say the least. Although others seek to motivate the necessary people to put a stop to the changes coming that will mean bad times ahead, those who they need to rise up again are too consumed with their own misery to care.
High in life and relationship dramas The Silver Thread tales a magnifying glass to the inabilities of dealing with guilt and being unable to trust. The analogous nature of how what Annika was fleeing when she originally travelled to Sofia has now happened nonetheless causes her to begin attributing the mistakes perceived in her life. Likewise Talvi too has done what he swore he never would and in part cannot escape the doubts that he contributed to the prophecy coming true; which leaves the realisation of whether he contributed to what has befallen Yuri. It seems the flavours of The Silver Thread are self and other evaluations at their cores. This second book draws the perception that instead of being a fantasy drama it might be more accurate to say its a drama fantasy. The first category sums up the core nature of the book whilst the second sums up its themes. This is congruous with the first Annika Brisby novel which is very much about the lives of the characters in general.
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January 5, 2018
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A year and a half ago, I was invited by the author to review the first book in the Annika Brisby series, (WHICH is still FREE on Kindle). I loved it and was lucky enough to get a copy of the second book in the series, The Silver Thread by Emigh Cannaday. It took me ages to finally get around to reading, but I decided to make it my first book of 2018 and BOY AM I HAPPY! I absolutely could not put it down and finished it within the day, absolutely devouring every word. It was just so utterly fantastic and everything I didn’t know I wanted.
When last we saw, Talvi and Annika were separated. Married after only a few months of knowing each other, Annika was thrust back to the modern world, unwillingly leaving Talvi behind. I was worried the majority of the book would be Talvi trying to find his way back, but surprisingly, he reaches Annika within the first ten percentish of the book. Then, things got so good. Cannaday just absolutely gave me everything I’ve ever wanted with these whirlwind romances: reality. Yes, Talvi and Annika love each other. But, they also came together suddenly, quickly, and in the midst of a dangerous quest. How do you continue a romance when it’s time to settle into the routine of romance and daily life? Especially when you know nothing about your partner’s tiny habits, such as how they take their tea or coffee. Seeing Talvi and Annika struggle to maintain their independence, while also keeping together this relationship was so realistic and just a joy to behold.
Apart from the relationship, the story itself was really interesting! Trying to find out what Talvi’s occupation is/was, what he was hiding from Annika, and then the ending!! That ending had me instantly running to amazon to buy and download the third book in the series. Seriously, if you’ve picked up the first book in the series and are the type of person (like myself) that wonders how these larger than life situations and romance can be maintained when things go “back to normal,” pick up The Silver Thread by Emigh Cannaday. Continues to be one of my favorite urban fantasy, new adult romances!
// I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this title. //
March 4, 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 Silver Thread' by Emigh Cannaday is the story of Annika and Talvi. This is the second audiobook in 'The Annika Brisby' series and I can say that I really like this 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.
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.
I went into this book expecting that the storyline would follow a predictable road given the cliffhanger from 'The Flame and the Arrow', but this story was it’s own animal and was better than I ever expected!
After being torn away from Talvi’s arms, through a portal, Annika finds herself back on Earth trying to convince her friends and family that she was taken to another world and had a great adventure. They of course thought she was crazy or had a case of Stockholm syndrome.
In most books we get the magical “and all the friends accepted the unbelievable,” which has come to be the norm with fantasy books and I will freely admit I that I find this more believable.
Meanwhile Talvi having been left behind in his world is going nuts thinking about his bride being all alone and he doesn't know if he needs to think the worse.
He manages to cross into our realm, but in order to find his wife he makes an important but somewhat vague deal. He is given some time to reconnect with Annika, but his payment is going to come due.
After he made the deal, Talvi finds his way to Annika. But nothing goes how he thought it would.
Both Talvi and Annika thought that their relationship was all butterflies and unicorns, but reality is setting in. I like that the author went there with their relationship.
Did they make the right decision, marrying so soon. It sounded good at the time but then you are thinking crap, was this a good decision? At least that is how it is for Annika, she finds that she is not the secure person she was in the other world and is not fully trusting of Talvi, especially as he brushes off all questions pertaining to his past.
I love Annika as a character, but she is self-centered, almost annoyingly so. I really wanted to shake her from time to time, which actually only makes the story that much better. Because I was emotionally involved in the story. Don’t worry though by the end there was light at the end of that tunnel and I am confident that she will develop in the next book.
As the story goes on their relationship takes a turn in a whole new direction, but it is not the entire story. We are able to discover a huge piece of Talvi’s past that paints him in a new light and really adds a great interest to the overall series in my opinion. But I hope that we will learn more about it in the next book and wanted to learn more about it. Talvi’s brother Finn, is more fun then I thought not the bookworm what he looks like at the surface.
So I bet you are wondering what it is that I did not like….sigh….more depth in the story and less day to day life of Annika and Talvi. Sometimes I had the feeling that I was missing out on things.
By the end of book two I am not sure if I'm ready to move on to book three. I was expecting the storyline to follow the “happily ever after” theme and that was my own preconceived notion. What can be to predicable and sometimes a bit boring. What started off as a beautiful disaster transformed into a story of naked honesty and acceptance with a cliffhanger that is unbelievable! So not predictable at all. I absolutely loved the cliffhanger, but I also hate it at the same time. Because I need to wait for the next audiobook.
I received this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
'The Silver Thread' by Emigh Cannaday is the story of Annika and Talvi. This is the second audiobook in 'The Annika Brisby' series and I can say that I really like this 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.
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.
I went into this book expecting that the storyline would follow a predictable road given the cliffhanger from 'The Flame and the Arrow', but this story was it’s own animal and was better than I ever expected!
After being torn away from Talvi’s arms, through a portal, Annika finds herself back on Earth trying to convince her friends and family that she was taken to another world and had a great adventure. They of course thought she was crazy or had a case of Stockholm syndrome.
In most books we get the magical “and all the friends accepted the unbelievable,” which has come to be the norm with fantasy books and I will freely admit I that I find this more believable.
Meanwhile Talvi having been left behind in his world is going nuts thinking about his bride being all alone and he doesn't know if he needs to think the worse.
He manages to cross into our realm, but in order to find his wife he makes an important but somewhat vague deal. He is given some time to reconnect with Annika, but his payment is going to come due.
After he made the deal, Talvi finds his way to Annika. But nothing goes how he thought it would.
Both Talvi and Annika thought that their relationship was all butterflies and unicorns, but reality is setting in. I like that the author went there with their relationship.
Did they make the right decision, marrying so soon. It sounded good at the time but then you are thinking crap, was this a good decision? At least that is how it is for Annika, she finds that she is not the secure person she was in the other world and is not fully trusting of Talvi, especially as he brushes off all questions pertaining to his past.
I love Annika as a character, but she is self-centered, almost annoyingly so. I really wanted to shake her from time to time, which actually only makes the story that much better. Because I was emotionally involved in the story. Don’t worry though by the end there was light at the end of that tunnel and I am confident that she will develop in the next book.
As the story goes on their relationship takes a turn in a whole new direction, but it is not the entire story. We are able to discover a huge piece of Talvi’s past that paints him in a new light and really adds a great interest to the overall series in my opinion. But I hope that we will learn more about it in the next book and wanted to learn more about it. Talvi’s brother Finn, is more fun then I thought not the bookworm what he looks like at the surface.
So I bet you are wondering what it is that I did not like….sigh….more depth in the story and less day to day life of Annika and Talvi. Sometimes I had the feeling that I was missing out on things.
By the end of book two I am not sure if I'm ready to move on to book three. I was expecting the storyline to follow the “happily ever after” theme and that was my own preconceived notion. What can be to predicable and sometimes a bit boring. What started off as a beautiful disaster transformed into a story of naked honesty and acceptance with a cliffhanger that is unbelievable! So not predictable at all. I absolutely loved the cliffhanger, but I also hate it at the same time. Because I need to wait for the next audiobook.
I received this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
May 16, 2018
Now that the portals between Earth and Eritähti are open again and Annika has been sucked back through to Earth, her new husband, the Elf Talvi, must find her again. Most of this story takes place on Earth with Talvi getting a taste of Annika’s life there.
He gets along well with Annika’s housemates and bandmates – James and Charlie (James is gay, and Charlie is Annika’s brother) – and Charlie’s friend Patti Cake. The segments with Annika’s friends and family and the fairy Chivanni are absolutely hilarious.
But Annika is still constantly worried about Talvi’s past sexual history with too many females of all sorts. And then, what about his mysterious female boss? Meanwhile, Talvi is jealous of any other men Annika gets close to.
Additionally, there is unspecified danger lurking at the edge of everything. At one point Talvi carts Annika off to Paris and then leaves her in the care of his brother, Finn, while he goes back to work for Merriweather. But the danger of someone impersonating one of them pales in comparison to what actually happens while Talvi is away. The repercussions of that make a trip to Eritähti necessary, and things nearly get out of hand there.
Finally, Annika and Talvi start to get their act together somewhat, and Talvi takes Annika to show her where he works. And that is where the real danger appears.
He gets along well with Annika’s housemates and bandmates – James and Charlie (James is gay, and Charlie is Annika’s brother) – and Charlie’s friend Patti Cake. The segments with Annika’s friends and family and the fairy Chivanni are absolutely hilarious.
But Annika is still constantly worried about Talvi’s past sexual history with too many females of all sorts. And then, what about his mysterious female boss? Meanwhile, Talvi is jealous of any other men Annika gets close to.
Additionally, there is unspecified danger lurking at the edge of everything. At one point Talvi carts Annika off to Paris and then leaves her in the care of his brother, Finn, while he goes back to work for Merriweather. But the danger of someone impersonating one of them pales in comparison to what actually happens while Talvi is away. The repercussions of that make a trip to Eritähti necessary, and things nearly get out of hand there.
Finally, Annika and Talvi start to get their act together somewhat, and Talvi takes Annika to show her where he works. And that is where the real danger appears.
April 12, 2020
I liked the idea..
So...There are a lot of things I like and a few I dont. First, the good things. There is actual character growth in this book, but it doesn't come until the very end. I like the way the book is written. It's much better than the first book in that scenes are not overflowing with unimportant detail. Talvi's family is the best hands down. Annika's parents were too dismissive and distanced themselves from her instead of actually being there.( Other than Charlie) I liked that we seen another side of Danny in this book too. Now for the negatives...Annika is honestly acting like a teenager not a 25 year old woman. She is really driving me bonkers. Talvi is a handful and the most immature I think a 300 year old could be. Finn is the most level headed of them all, well and their Dad, Ambrose. Also, it's really strange when the Pov keeps switching through different people in the same scene. This is the first book I've ever read that has done that. Lastly, this is the second book and it was the same as the first. There is no real conflict(besides petty drama) until the very end. No deadline they have to meet, no evil person after them, no hidden danger( well I guess that's not true but at the very end) I'm just not sure. There are moments of brilliance and then moments I'm left scratching my head.
So...There are a lot of things I like and a few I dont. First, the good things. There is actual character growth in this book, but it doesn't come until the very end. I like the way the book is written. It's much better than the first book in that scenes are not overflowing with unimportant detail. Talvi's family is the best hands down. Annika's parents were too dismissive and distanced themselves from her instead of actually being there.( Other than Charlie) I liked that we seen another side of Danny in this book too. Now for the negatives...Annika is honestly acting like a teenager not a 25 year old woman. She is really driving me bonkers. Talvi is a handful and the most immature I think a 300 year old could be. Finn is the most level headed of them all, well and their Dad, Ambrose. Also, it's really strange when the Pov keeps switching through different people in the same scene. This is the first book I've ever read that has done that. Lastly, this is the second book and it was the same as the first. There is no real conflict(besides petty drama) until the very end. No deadline they have to meet, no evil person after them, no hidden danger( well I guess that's not true but at the very end) I'm just not sure. There are moments of brilliance and then moments I'm left scratching my head.
January 30, 2021
This is what I get for getting swayed by a book series with the main character having my name.
Much like the first book, the sequel features a crazy amount of characters of which I remember only two, too many plots squeezed into a single book which could've been better off spread out into at least three seperate volumes.
However, unlike the first book, this one completely lacks the charm of its predecessor. I cannot tell what has happened exactly but neither Annika nor Talvi seem like themselves - and everyone is being dramatic over everything all the time.
My headstrong, resourceful name-sister has turned into a weak and timid, yet overly hotheaded, mouse and it's extremely frustrating to get a read on her "new personality", which seems to change as the situation calls for it.
Talvi, on the other hand, has turned into a grade A douche and that's as far as I intend to take that topic. I'm speechless! I don't even want them together anymore.
I was hoping this meant I only had to endure two more books of overstuffed, over-dramatic nonsense but would you know: the author is planning a 5th volume. Now I pride myself my patience when it comes to bad books but this is too much of ..too much.
Assume that this series is leaving my bookshelf for good. I am gravely disappointed with whatever this mess was.
Much like the first book, the sequel features a crazy amount of characters of which I remember only two, too many plots squeezed into a single book which could've been better off spread out into at least three seperate volumes.
However, unlike the first book, this one completely lacks the charm of its predecessor. I cannot tell what has happened exactly but neither Annika nor Talvi seem like themselves - and everyone is being dramatic over everything all the time.
My headstrong, resourceful name-sister has turned into a weak and timid, yet overly hotheaded, mouse and it's extremely frustrating to get a read on her "new personality", which seems to change as the situation calls for it.
Talvi, on the other hand, has turned into a grade A douche and that's as far as I intend to take that topic. I'm speechless! I don't even want them together anymore.
I was hoping this meant I only had to endure two more books of overstuffed, over-dramatic nonsense but would you know: the author is planning a 5th volume. Now I pride myself my patience when it comes to bad books but this is too much of ..too much.
Assume that this series is leaving my bookshelf for good. I am gravely disappointed with whatever this mess was.
August 25, 2017
The battle is over and Annika has returned to her old life. No one believes her adventures. Meanwhile, Talvi has crossed worlds to find her again, and he can't understand why she isn't overjoyed at his return. The two must learn to adjust to married life, as well as modern American culture. Just as they're starting to figure it out, Talvi gets called back to work - as a superntural spy in Europe. He leaves Annika with his brother Finn for safekeeping, but little does he realize that the changes in her body are about to make things even more dangerous since she does not yet understand what is happening to her.
There's a lot less action and a lot more character development in this book than in the first book. We need to understand more about the workings of the supernatural world and Talvi's role in it, as well as the growing conflict between Finn and Talvi as they realize they both love the same woman. We also get to know Annika's friends and family in Portland, and we begin to understand the challenges she faces as she learns to deal with her newly granted immortality. It's interesting and emotional, and will leave you craving the next installation of the story.
There's a lot less action and a lot more character development in this book than in the first book. We need to understand more about the workings of the supernatural world and Talvi's role in it, as well as the growing conflict between Finn and Talvi as they realize they both love the same woman. We also get to know Annika's friends and family in Portland, and we begin to understand the challenges she faces as she learns to deal with her newly granted immortality. It's interesting and emotional, and will leave you craving the next installation of the story.
May 9, 2017
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This book picks up where the first book ended. Annika is depressed by being thrown back into the real world where no one believes her story. Talvi crosses worlds to find her. Very romantic gesture!
Annika's personality still drives me crazy but I had come to expect that with the first book. It's annoying that one moment she's all over Talvi and the next she's accusing him of being unfaithful...again.
But I really did enjoy this book. The voice acting is incredible. The story is great and kept my interest. I especially like the scene with "the song." The entire time in Paris was...interesting. Don't want to give anything away. And I liked that we get to see Talvi's family again and learn more about his background.
And it's another cliffhanger! I can't wait to read the third book to find out what happens.
This book picks up where the first book ended. Annika is depressed by being thrown back into the real world where no one believes her story. Talvi crosses worlds to find her. Very romantic gesture!
Annika's personality still drives me crazy but I had come to expect that with the first book. It's annoying that one moment she's all over Talvi and the next she's accusing him of being unfaithful...again.
But I really did enjoy this book. The voice acting is incredible. The story is great and kept my interest. I especially like the scene with "the song." The entire time in Paris was...interesting. Don't want to give anything away. And I liked that we get to see Talvi's family again and learn more about his background.
And it's another cliffhanger! I can't wait to read the third book to find out what happens.
August 9, 2018
Not As Good As The First Book
I found this book to be a disappointment after the first book. It was kind of dull. There was just too much of Annika being wishy washy for a twenty five year old, and very insecure. She also came across as a little selfish and wow is me. Talvi was slightly better. Finn, on the other hand kept me reading.
For me there were two parts that kept my interest. The first being the trip to Paris, where it was Finn and Annika, oh! Boy what fun they could of had. The second was the ending. I wasn't going to get the next book, but the ending made it suddenly very interesting.
Whilst the book was written well, Annika could use some improvement in character qualities, and the descriptions could be toned down a bit. I hope the third book has more action and adventure.
I found this book to be a disappointment after the first book. It was kind of dull. There was just too much of Annika being wishy washy for a twenty five year old, and very insecure. She also came across as a little selfish and wow is me. Talvi was slightly better. Finn, on the other hand kept me reading.
For me there were two parts that kept my interest. The first being the trip to Paris, where it was Finn and Annika, oh! Boy what fun they could of had. The second was the ending. I wasn't going to get the next book, but the ending made it suddenly very interesting.
Whilst the book was written well, Annika could use some improvement in character qualities, and the descriptions could be toned down a bit. I hope the third book has more action and adventure.
April 23, 2023
You know, I was really looking forward to this next book, but what in the actual Fuck!? The first book was in my opinion, really amazing and I was expecting the second book to be just as good. This book fell flat. I will admit, I laughed quite a few times throughout the book. But what I really want to know is, Emigh, are you purposely trying to get us to hate Talvi? It's working. Talvi is a complete womanizing jerk, flirts with anything that has boobs. He slept with over 600 women! Talvi and Patti Cake, so ridiculous, if I were Annika I would have not put up with that shit. Also, Talvi making her change her hair before he sleeps with her! WTF? What about loving her for her? And Finn's story, I just laughed and laughed, recovered morphine addict! I can't lol, it was so unexpected to learn this about Finn. I feel like Emigh just didn`t know what to do next with the book and made a bunch of shit up. One more thing, suddenly in this book Talvi is smoking cigarettes' all the damn time? I don't remember him smoking them in the first book. I'm hoping the next book gets better and Talvi isn't such an asswipe.
November 27, 2016
I get why Cannaday decided to take it slow. To show how difficult the relationship between Talvin and Annika was, but it really didn't have to be that slow. Most of the story could have been skipped and the love triangle felt forced.
There was no need for the one chapter about Yuri and Sariel. At least not in this book, because it didn't have any influence of the story.
BUT The cliffhanger is mean and I'm hooked.
There was no need for the one chapter about Yuri and Sariel. At least not in this book, because it didn't have any influence of the story.
BUT The cliffhanger is mean and I'm hooked.
August 7, 2017
I went into this a little leery because I enjoyed the first book but not like I was excited by it. I was interested with the characters and how she slipped through his fingers. I don't understand the whole spy thing because it took him awhile to find her even though he was a spy. I don't think they liked each other at all throughout the book. I didn't understand their conflict because it was mostly miscommunication. overall I just didn't understand this book.
August 22, 2017
I really liked the complexity of the characters and worlds and for this being a fantasy book the situations seemed like they could happen. However I didn't like it as much as the first book. I felt like it contained a lot of information that was repeated a lot and could have been condensed, making a long book feel long. Even though I liked the complexity of the characters, their personality seems quite different than the first book.
June 3, 2017
First things first it was fantastic that the first book was free and it was great but when you really get into this one it has everything you could want in a book. It made my blood boil I was so mad at my self that I couldnt read it faster, so many emotions while reading it. The ending omg I bought the next book straight away so am off now to read it.
November 17, 2017
Where's the ROMANCE in this ROMANCE novel ? What happened to this couple after book 1?! I am currently on book 3 and I really want to just move on to a new series. I honestly can't believe book 1 has such a lower rating than this one. Book 1 was absolutely amazing ! It seems the further along we get the less the author knows how to write this story 🙄
August 22, 2018
Intense!
Starts out slow just as book 1 did. But once you are a third of the way through, it gets intense and you are immersed in this world. My favorite feature is the way the author develops the characters, not through mundane descriptions, but through interactions and events.
Starts out slow just as book 1 did. But once you are a third of the way through, it gets intense and you are immersed in this world. My favorite feature is the way the author develops the characters, not through mundane descriptions, but through interactions and events.
August 31, 2018
Again, I loved and hated it 😂 I still think Annika and Talvi should not be together, like at all. And I didn't really enjoy the first half of the book but the second part made up for the first! But I have just bought the last two books in the series so that counts for something 😂
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