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Wonderland #2
Wonderland
Forced to return to London to try to save Max from the gallows, Hugo and Neve are well aware of the danger of their situation and try to anticipate every eventuality. But, betrayal comes from an unexpected quarter, putting Neve and Hugo in mortal danger, and forcing them to reevaluate whom they can trust. Unexpected reunions, simmering old hatreds, and shocking betrayals abound as Neve and Hugo race against time to help Max, and flee England before it's too late.
Audio CD
First published August 11, 2015
About the author
Irina Shapiro
111 books1,355 followersTo write a novel was a dream of mine since I was a child. Life, my practical nature, and self-doubt got in the way, so it was decades later that an opportunity to write finally presented itself. I honestly didn't think I had what it takes to write a full-length novel, but once I faced the blank screen and my fingers touched the keyboard, everything disappeared except my characters and their surroundings, and suddenly I knew that this was what I was born to do.
Since then, I've written many books and have enjoyed some positive reviews, but sometimes, when I stop to reflect, I'm still amazed that I'm living my dream.
Follow me on BookBub for discount deals and new release alerts.
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/irina...
Since then, I've written many books and have enjoyed some positive reviews, but sometimes, when I stop to reflect, I'm still amazed that I'm living my dream.
Follow me on BookBub for discount deals and new release alerts.
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/irina...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
May 4, 2026
Engaging story. I loved the main characters of Hugo and Neve. The time travel added another dimension to the story. Action packed. I did deduct a star for profanity. There was also explicit sexual content. I’m looking forward to the next in the series. It did take me a bit to adjust to the narrator, but she did a fine job. The ending was unexpected. Highly recommend.
I was blessed with an ALC. Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing. Storm Publishing has become one of my all time favorite publishers. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
I was blessed with an ALC. Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing. Storm Publishing has become one of my all time favorite publishers. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
November 12, 2023
Another 5* read from this series.
Hugo and Neve are still in England even though they had planned to leave for France. There's always something to stop them from going anywhere. At times I got a bit tired of Hugo rushing around trying to help everyone while putting Neve in danger, especially when he adores her! The story is packed with action, like the first book. There is sadness here too and revelations of momentous secrets and some characters have changed completely.
Another solid read and looking forward to the next one.
Hugo and Neve are still in England even though they had planned to leave for France. There's always something to stop them from going anywhere. At times I got a bit tired of Hugo rushing around trying to help everyone while putting Neve in danger, especially when he adores her! The story is packed with action, like the first book. There is sadness here too and revelations of momentous secrets and some characters have changed completely.
Another solid read and looking forward to the next one.
January 24, 2025
Loved the first book and whilst this one is well written I was so frustrated. A book shouldn't be entirely doom and gloom and by the end it made absolutely no sense for Neve and Hugo to stay in the 1600s. She wasn't staying for love, Hugo said he would like in the future with her? The amount of times they were starved, tortured, almost killed brutally and they were constantly in hiding and on the run. Plus Neve is pregnant so why oh why would she risk her baby's life when they could have both gone back to the future and given their baby the best life. The ending actually made me angry and I can't read the next books in the series.
July 23, 2016
This was just as good as the first book! Excellent story characters and such an exciting plot. Can't wait for the next one of this series. A great author. Well recommended.
October 20, 2025
I loved it. Could't put it down.
March 24, 2018
Could not read any more of this - characters are dumber than a box of rocks
June 6, 2019
This book was amazing. I couldn't stop reading. Read it in one day. Took me 12 hours. LOL.
May 1, 2026
4.5⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley, Irina Shapiro, and Dreamscape Select for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook.
Wonderland was a captivating and immersive read that held my attention from beginning to end. Set against a richly layered historical backdrop with a touch of the fantastical, the story blends real-world elements with something just slightly otherworldly, creating a narrative that feels both grounded and magical at the same time.
The book follows characters whose lives become intertwined in unexpected ways, drawing the reader into a world where history and imagination meet. There’s a sense of intrigue and discovery woven throughout the story, making it easy to become fully absorbed in the setting and invested in what happens next. If you enjoy stories that transport you to another time while adding a subtle layer of mystery and wonder, this one does it beautifully.
The audiobook narration by Hannah Kelly-Turner truly elevated the experience. She brought each character to life with distinct voices and emotional depth, making it easy to connect with their journeys. You could genuinely feel what each character was experiencing, which added another layer of engagement to an already compelling story.
Overall, this was a fantastic listen. It was engaging, atmospheric, and emotionally resonant for all the right reasons, and in all the right places. I’m definitely looking forward to continuing the series and seeing where the story goes next.
Thank you to NetGalley, Irina Shapiro, and Dreamscape Select for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook.
Wonderland was a captivating and immersive read that held my attention from beginning to end. Set against a richly layered historical backdrop with a touch of the fantastical, the story blends real-world elements with something just slightly otherworldly, creating a narrative that feels both grounded and magical at the same time.
The book follows characters whose lives become intertwined in unexpected ways, drawing the reader into a world where history and imagination meet. There’s a sense of intrigue and discovery woven throughout the story, making it easy to become fully absorbed in the setting and invested in what happens next. If you enjoy stories that transport you to another time while adding a subtle layer of mystery and wonder, this one does it beautifully.
The audiobook narration by Hannah Kelly-Turner truly elevated the experience. She brought each character to life with distinct voices and emotional depth, making it easy to connect with their journeys. You could genuinely feel what each character was experiencing, which added another layer of engagement to an already compelling story.
Overall, this was a fantastic listen. It was engaging, atmospheric, and emotionally resonant for all the right reasons, and in all the right places. I’m definitely looking forward to continuing the series and seeing where the story goes next.
September 10, 2025
I enjoyed this book more than the first in the series and now feel more invested in the main characters....I want to know what happens next so will probably keep on reading the series!
December 9, 2024
Good writing, but…
The writing is good, as is the character development. Though the notion of “a time slip“ is fantastical, the author presents it in such a way the reader can take it in stride without feeling that it is too far a stretch . The plot moves along quickly, with unexpected twists and turns. It is exciting and engrossing.
With that said, there is nothing “cozy” about this novel. It is the second book in a series of three. The first was enjoyable, with little vulgarity, and scenes of passion were tastefully vague, but not graphic. In this novel, all that goes out the window. The language is vulgar repeatedly. The sex scenes become graphic, even describing a homosexual encounter. As with the first novel, descriptions of beheadings, punishments, etc., are also inordinately graphic… However, in this novel, there is so much more of it. I really came to care about the characters, and so I skimmed through a great deal of the story. Maybe in 2013 when this was written, the audience was different. (The author has a Victorian mystery series at present that has none of these elements.)
I am interested to see what happens in the third book, but will look for summaries online. No doubt Shapiro is a good writer. I just don’t personally care to read this kind of a book, which is a disappointment because good writers are hard to find. But in some cases, it is also difficult to find books that are inoffensive. I’m a great fan of reading between the lines, so graphic detail is something I could do without.
It may be fine for some folks. But if you’re looking for something cozy, this would not fit the bill.
The writing is good, as is the character development. Though the notion of “a time slip“ is fantastical, the author presents it in such a way the reader can take it in stride without feeling that it is too far a stretch . The plot moves along quickly, with unexpected twists and turns. It is exciting and engrossing.
With that said, there is nothing “cozy” about this novel. It is the second book in a series of three. The first was enjoyable, with little vulgarity, and scenes of passion were tastefully vague, but not graphic. In this novel, all that goes out the window. The language is vulgar repeatedly. The sex scenes become graphic, even describing a homosexual encounter. As with the first novel, descriptions of beheadings, punishments, etc., are also inordinately graphic… However, in this novel, there is so much more of it. I really came to care about the characters, and so I skimmed through a great deal of the story. Maybe in 2013 when this was written, the audience was different. (The author has a Victorian mystery series at present that has none of these elements.)
I am interested to see what happens in the third book, but will look for summaries online. No doubt Shapiro is a good writer. I just don’t personally care to read this kind of a book, which is a disappointment because good writers are hard to find. But in some cases, it is also difficult to find books that are inoffensive. I’m a great fan of reading between the lines, so graphic detail is something I could do without.
It may be fine for some folks. But if you’re looking for something cozy, this would not fit the bill.
June 16, 2025
More suspense and nail biting moments
I loved this second installment of Neve and Hugo’s time traveling historical romance with a side of life threatening circumstances. The story hooked me in immediately and took me along for a quite an emotional ride. I was equally desperate to read it all at once and also to savor it and make it last. The book had many suspenseful and exciting plot twists and I found myself on the edge of my seat a number of times wondering how it would all turn out. The story started where the last book ended. Hugo and Neve have returned to the 17th century with the plan to live in France until it is safe to return to England. But once they hear that Max Everly, Hugo’s relative from the 21st century, is locked up for his crimes, Hugo is determined to try to free him. While working on that plan and staying hidden from the authorities, Neve is accused of witchcraft and imprisoned. The story has a number of chapters from secondary characters’ POVs which does a wonderful job of advancing the narrative of the story. Once again, interwoven with Hugo and Neve’s love story there is thought provoking social and religious commentary which adds interesting layers. The storyline was imaginative, the characters were real and relatable, and the writing was captivating as shown through mysteries, sweet moments, light spice, laughs, messy families, painful pasts, surprises, danger, plot twists, fate, and love. I am loving this series and I’m off to read the next book to see what happens with Neve, Hugo and friends.
I loved this second installment of Neve and Hugo’s time traveling historical romance with a side of life threatening circumstances. The story hooked me in immediately and took me along for a quite an emotional ride. I was equally desperate to read it all at once and also to savor it and make it last. The book had many suspenseful and exciting plot twists and I found myself on the edge of my seat a number of times wondering how it would all turn out. The story started where the last book ended. Hugo and Neve have returned to the 17th century with the plan to live in France until it is safe to return to England. But once they hear that Max Everly, Hugo’s relative from the 21st century, is locked up for his crimes, Hugo is determined to try to free him. While working on that plan and staying hidden from the authorities, Neve is accused of witchcraft and imprisoned. The story has a number of chapters from secondary characters’ POVs which does a wonderful job of advancing the narrative of the story. Once again, interwoven with Hugo and Neve’s love story there is thought provoking social and religious commentary which adds interesting layers. The storyline was imaginative, the characters were real and relatable, and the writing was captivating as shown through mysteries, sweet moments, light spice, laughs, messy families, painful pasts, surprises, danger, plot twists, fate, and love. I am loving this series and I’m off to read the next book to see what happens with Neve, Hugo and friends.
May 24, 2026
Neve, and her partner, Hugo, whose child she is carrying, are hiding in London while trying to get Hugo's distant relative, Max, released from prison. Though they are mainly concerned with Hugh being recognized, it is Neve who ends up in grave danger when she is thrown into Newgate Prison and accused of witchcraft. Hugo plots to free her from the prison which is a place of untold suffering. Can he reach her before it is too late?
Neve, and her partner, Hugo, whose child she is carrying, are hiding in London while trying to get Hugo's distant relative, Max, released from prison. Though they are mainly concerned with Hugh being recognized, it is Neve who ends up in grave danger when she is thrown into Newgate Prison and accused of witchcraft. Hugo plots to free her from the prison which is a place of untold suffering. Can he reach her before it is too late?
I've read many titles by this author and enjoyed them all. When I selected this audiobook, I did not realize that it is the second book in a series. A lot is lost by not having read the first book. There were a lot of things I didn't understand, and references to a past that were not fully explained. So, the writing is good, the narration for all the characters is good, and the story line is compelling. However, had I known how graphic some of the descriptions of sexual encounters would be (hetero- and homo-sexual) , I would not have selected this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Neve, and her partner, Hugo, whose child she is carrying, are hiding in London while trying to get Hugo's distant relative, Max, released from prison. Though they are mainly concerned with Hugh being recognized, it is Neve who ends up in grave danger when she is thrown into Newgate Prison and accused of witchcraft. Hugo plots to free her from the prison which is a place of untold suffering. Can he reach her before it is too late?
I've read many titles by this author and enjoyed them all. When I selected this audiobook, I did not realize that it is the second book in a series. A lot is lost by not having read the first book. There were a lot of things I didn't understand, and references to a past that were not fully explained. So, the writing is good, the narration for all the characters is good, and the story line is compelling. However, had I known how graphic some of the descriptions of sexual encounters would be (hetero- and homo-sexual) , I would not have selected this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
May 16, 2026
On the brink of their HEA, Neve and Hugo double back to rescue dumb Max and fall victims to Jane's evil Syphilis plot! AW! They were SOOO close!! Proving that even time travelers can't outrun their problems! The Wonderland series is Irina Shapiro's answer to Diana Gabaldon's "Outlander" but with 100% less war and no helpful healing skills.
I get the appeal of an old-timey alpha male, but real talk - WHY would any modern woman EVER leave her own time where she has legal rights to give birth and live in the 18th century? Do we not like LIFE EXPECTANCY? Predictably the perverted entitled upper-class villains they pissed off in the first book (Jane & Lionel Finch) shit all over the struggling lower-class characters in their vicinity causing one crisis over after another that the pregnant Neve and incognito Hugo have to battle through. Also predictably, everything that could go wrong, - does.
I can't continue with this series. Just like Outlander for me, all the injustice and violence is just too sad and angering to keep reading. I need them to take Frances, Archie, Jem and every woman about to have a baby through the Passage - STAT! Just get everybody NICE the F*** out of the past and let the villains die of syphilis alone!
Audiobook was well acted and engaging. I blew through it in a day!
I get the appeal of an old-timey alpha male, but real talk - WHY would any modern woman EVER leave her own time where she has legal rights to give birth and live in the 18th century? Do we not like LIFE EXPECTANCY? Predictably the perverted entitled upper-class villains they pissed off in the first book (Jane & Lionel Finch) shit all over the struggling lower-class characters in their vicinity causing one crisis over after another that the pregnant Neve and incognito Hugo have to battle through. Also predictably, everything that could go wrong, - does.
I can't continue with this series. Just like Outlander for me, all the injustice and violence is just too sad and angering to keep reading. I need them to take Frances, Archie, Jem and every woman about to have a baby through the Passage - STAT! Just get everybody NICE the F*** out of the past and let the villains die of syphilis alone!
Audiobook was well acted and engaging. I blew through it in a day!
May 18, 2026
Wonderland, written by Irina Shapiro, is the follow up to The Passage. I need to mention that I think it is imperative to read the earlier book before Wonderland. Had I not read the first book, I would have been completely bewildered by what I was reading.
We are back in 1685, the after effects of the Duke of Monmouth’s rebellion against the crown is still being felt heavily. Hugo and Neve are at great risk, despite an arrest being made.
I feel so at home with the characters now, I’m completely invested in them and their futures, they feel like old friends. The story keeps up a good pace, with plenty of action. There is high stakes peril, and although different to current times, far more dangerous.
I really love this book and series. I enjoy seeing the time period through the eyes of a modern woman, it is an interesting angle for a historical work of fiction. The original premise is a time slip/time travel book, so if that does not appeal to you, then I would advise you to read Irina’s Tate and Bell series, set in Victorian England. The author does provide background detail to explain some of what happened in The Passage; but it will increase your understanding to read this book first, and it is thoroughly enjoyable too.
We are back in 1685, the after effects of the Duke of Monmouth’s rebellion against the crown is still being felt heavily. Hugo and Neve are at great risk, despite an arrest being made.
I feel so at home with the characters now, I’m completely invested in them and their futures, they feel like old friends. The story keeps up a good pace, with plenty of action. There is high stakes peril, and although different to current times, far more dangerous.
I really love this book and series. I enjoy seeing the time period through the eyes of a modern woman, it is an interesting angle for a historical work of fiction. The original premise is a time slip/time travel book, so if that does not appeal to you, then I would advise you to read Irina’s Tate and Bell series, set in Victorian England. The author does provide background detail to explain some of what happened in The Passage; but it will increase your understanding to read this book first, and it is thoroughly enjoyable too.
June 21, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
After reading The Passage, I was excited to jump back into Neve and Hugo's story, and Wonderland definitely kept me invested. The stakes feel even higher this time around, with danger, betrayal, and enough bad decisions to have me repeatedly asking these characters what exactly their plan was.
This series leans much more into the historical fiction side than the time travel side, but I actually enjoyed seeing how Neve continues to navigate life as a modern woman trapped in a world that makes absolutely everything harder. Between prison, accusations, betrayals, and a seemingly endless list of obstacles, these two cannot catch a break.
The audiobook was the highlight for me. Hannah Kelly-Turner did an excellent job bringing the characters to life and keeping the tension high throughout the story. Her performance made even the slower sections easier to stay engaged with.
The pacing wasn't perfect, and there were moments that felt a little drawn out, but I was still fully invested in seeing how everything would play out. The atmosphere, historical detail, and constant sense of danger kept me listening.
If you enjoy historical fiction with time-slip elements, high stakes, and plenty of drama, this is a series worth picking up—but definitely start with book one.
Thank you to Irina Shapiro, Dreamscape Select, and Storm Publishing for the audiobook.
After reading The Passage, I was excited to jump back into Neve and Hugo's story, and Wonderland definitely kept me invested. The stakes feel even higher this time around, with danger, betrayal, and enough bad decisions to have me repeatedly asking these characters what exactly their plan was.
This series leans much more into the historical fiction side than the time travel side, but I actually enjoyed seeing how Neve continues to navigate life as a modern woman trapped in a world that makes absolutely everything harder. Between prison, accusations, betrayals, and a seemingly endless list of obstacles, these two cannot catch a break.
The audiobook was the highlight for me. Hannah Kelly-Turner did an excellent job bringing the characters to life and keeping the tension high throughout the story. Her performance made even the slower sections easier to stay engaged with.
The pacing wasn't perfect, and there were moments that felt a little drawn out, but I was still fully invested in seeing how everything would play out. The atmosphere, historical detail, and constant sense of danger kept me listening.
If you enjoy historical fiction with time-slip elements, high stakes, and plenty of drama, this is a series worth picking up—but definitely start with book one.
Thank you to Irina Shapiro, Dreamscape Select, and Storm Publishing for the audiobook.
May 14, 2024
Good book, mostly
This was a well written story that was easy to follow. I have read the first book as well as this one and intend to read the next. The reason I didn’t give it a five was the author’s use of very vulgar language which I found to be inappropriate to the story. As a matter of fact, for me it lessoned the overall feel when inserting it abruptly into the narrative. The vulgarity of the language just did not flow well. I have read numerous sex and intimate scenes that were much better written and would have been more appropriate to this story. I also feel that the author went out of her way to express her hatred and disdain of God. This also didn’t enhance in any way the story line because there was only one character who was a believer. It appeared after reading numerous times throughout both books about how God never answered prayers or didn’t care what people went through, that the author was giving the characters a very personal bias. I hope the third book leaves out these things, if not, after finding out how the story ends, I will likely not read anymore from this author.
This was a well written story that was easy to follow. I have read the first book as well as this one and intend to read the next. The reason I didn’t give it a five was the author’s use of very vulgar language which I found to be inappropriate to the story. As a matter of fact, for me it lessoned the overall feel when inserting it abruptly into the narrative. The vulgarity of the language just did not flow well. I have read numerous sex and intimate scenes that were much better written and would have been more appropriate to this story. I also feel that the author went out of her way to express her hatred and disdain of God. This also didn’t enhance in any way the story line because there was only one character who was a believer. It appeared after reading numerous times throughout both books about how God never answered prayers or didn’t care what people went through, that the author was giving the characters a very personal bias. I hope the third book leaves out these things, if not, after finding out how the story ends, I will likely not read anymore from this author.
April 22, 2026
🎧Audiobook review🎧
I’m enjoying exploring Historical Fiction, I recently enjoyed Irina Shapiro’s The Hanging Tree, so when a friend pointed this one out I jumped on it. I’ve never read a 1600s Historical before, but I like to try out new things…
…It’s also a timeslip, present day Neve living in 1685. It’s also the second book of five in The Wonderland Series which I wish I had known. I tend not to read blurbs so it took me a while to work out who was who and when they came from.
There’s plenty going on with mistaken identity and accusations of witchcraft, we get to see the prison, the taverns and the brothels. It’s pretty dark at times and there’s also some spice and debauchery (who knew that people were having s*x back then?).
I’m sure I would have understood more earlier had I read the first book (The Passage), and I’d probably listen to it if the opportunity arose.
A little outside my comfort zone but I enjoyed it all the same. The narration by Hannah Kelly-Turner was very good.
Thanks to Netgalley and Dreamscape Select
I’m enjoying exploring Historical Fiction, I recently enjoyed Irina Shapiro’s The Hanging Tree, so when a friend pointed this one out I jumped on it. I’ve never read a 1600s Historical before, but I like to try out new things…
…It’s also a timeslip, present day Neve living in 1685. It’s also the second book of five in The Wonderland Series which I wish I had known. I tend not to read blurbs so it took me a while to work out who was who and when they came from.
There’s plenty going on with mistaken identity and accusations of witchcraft, we get to see the prison, the taverns and the brothels. It’s pretty dark at times and there’s also some spice and debauchery (who knew that people were having s*x back then?).
I’m sure I would have understood more earlier had I read the first book (The Passage), and I’d probably listen to it if the opportunity arose.
A little outside my comfort zone but I enjoyed it all the same. The narration by Hannah Kelly-Turner was very good.
Thanks to Netgalley and Dreamscape Select
Read
April 17, 2026Wonderland by Irina Shapiro was a decent read, even coming in without reading the first book. Thankfully, Shapiro recaps just enough so you’re not completely lost, without dragging you through a full history lesson. That said, the story felt a little too much like a budget Outlander—familiar themes, similar vibes, but missing some of the magic.
My biggest gripe? The nonstop references to men’s anatomy. It didn’t add depth, didn’t move the plot forward, and mostly just had me rolling my eyes.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator did a solid job giving each character a distinct voice, which helped. But like so many audiobooks, the pacing was painfully slow—I had to bump it up to 2x just to stay engaged.
Overall, it’s fine, but not exactly unforgettable.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to Dreamscape Select and NetGalley for the ARC.
My biggest gripe? The nonstop references to men’s anatomy. It didn’t add depth, didn’t move the plot forward, and mostly just had me rolling my eyes.
I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator did a solid job giving each character a distinct voice, which helped. But like so many audiobooks, the pacing was painfully slow—I had to bump it up to 2x just to stay engaged.
Overall, it’s fine, but not exactly unforgettable.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to Dreamscape Select and NetGalley for the ARC.
May 5, 2018
A conundrum.
This is a continuation of Neve and Hugo's story. They return to 1685 with a plan to evade detection. Unfortunately, Max, Hugo's nephew's descendant, discovers the passage back through time and really throws a spanner in the works.
There was a lot written in the first book about Lord Hugo Everly's disappearance in the history books. Well, Max going back to 1685 has certainly changed history! Being mistaken for Hugo and being incarcerated in the Tower as a traitor, means that Lord Hugo Everly didn't just disappear. It would be interesting to see how the future is affected, if at all.
Another question that arises is how Hugo and Neve mean to be recognised in France since he is supposed to be a prisoner still. This book creates more questions than answers, but that's good.
This is a continuation of Neve and Hugo's story. They return to 1685 with a plan to evade detection. Unfortunately, Max, Hugo's nephew's descendant, discovers the passage back through time and really throws a spanner in the works.
There was a lot written in the first book about Lord Hugo Everly's disappearance in the history books. Well, Max going back to 1685 has certainly changed history! Being mistaken for Hugo and being incarcerated in the Tower as a traitor, means that Lord Hugo Everly didn't just disappear. It would be interesting to see how the future is affected, if at all.
Another question that arises is how Hugo and Neve mean to be recognised in France since he is supposed to be a prisoner still. This book creates more questions than answers, but that's good.
April 30, 2026
3.5 ⭐
I recently discovered Shapiro, and have enjoyed a few of the Tate and Bell stories.
It's rather wonderful to come across an author and realise they have a back catalogue that could keep you going for years!
This is the second book in the wonderland series, and it does an excellent job of filling you in on who is who, and tease at what happened in book 1.
Tease enough I'd now like to read book 1.
This is definitely less PG than the other series I've read. Quite a few racy scenes.
Also lots of heroicness from Hugo, and Neve really is a wonder with her modern day ideas fitting in so well into the 1600's.
Lots of action, and all at a good pace.
I already really like most of these characters.
I listened to the audio, and it was great fun.
Narration was excellent.
More please
Thanks to netgalley for the free digital copy
I recently discovered Shapiro, and have enjoyed a few of the Tate and Bell stories.
It's rather wonderful to come across an author and realise they have a back catalogue that could keep you going for years!
This is the second book in the wonderland series, and it does an excellent job of filling you in on who is who, and tease at what happened in book 1.
Tease enough I'd now like to read book 1.
This is definitely less PG than the other series I've read. Quite a few racy scenes.
Also lots of heroicness from Hugo, and Neve really is a wonder with her modern day ideas fitting in so well into the 1600's.
Lots of action, and all at a good pace.
I already really like most of these characters.
I listened to the audio, and it was great fun.
Narration was excellent.
More please
Thanks to netgalley for the free digital copy
May 8, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the audiobook arc in exchange for my honest opinion.
Uh, this was not my favorite of this author, as I am familiar with her work from other series. I’m not sure where to begin because this book was published in 2023, but it’s on NetGalley for 2026? Perhaps it was trad published? In that event, I was disappointed to learn it’s not a newer series by her but an older one as I was looking forward to something fresh by Irina.
Honestly this book was okay, and that’s about all I can say about it. Nothing was particularly memorable and I had to start and stop multiple times to read other books because this one was just up and down, lots of twists and turns. This book was a harder listen and I found myself wanting to skim a lot just to finish up and be done.
2.25/5 stars, I won’t be continuing.
Uh, this was not my favorite of this author, as I am familiar with her work from other series. I’m not sure where to begin because this book was published in 2023, but it’s on NetGalley for 2026? Perhaps it was trad published? In that event, I was disappointed to learn it’s not a newer series by her but an older one as I was looking forward to something fresh by Irina.
Honestly this book was okay, and that’s about all I can say about it. Nothing was particularly memorable and I had to start and stop multiple times to read other books because this one was just up and down, lots of twists and turns. This book was a harder listen and I found myself wanting to skim a lot just to finish up and be done.
2.25/5 stars, I won’t be continuing.
May 21, 2026
I normally enjoy Irina Shapiro’s stories, especially Bell and Tate. I saw this one, Wonderland, and was drawn by the cover. Then I realized it was a time slip novel, set in London, between the 21st century and 1685 and was intrigued. Part of the problem may have been my not realizing this was book 2 in a series, so from the start, I felt like I was missing something. I didn’t quite connect with the characters and at times the story seemed to drag on and at other times, it felt rushed. There was more explicit content that what I have experienced in her other novels and that is not my preference. Happy to continue to try other books by this author, but probably not this series. The narrator was wonderful and did a great job.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley, and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley, and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
July 11, 2024
The theme of this book is MOTHERHOOD!! Whack! (That's the sound of the 2x4 that the author just hit you with.)
I started this series with high hopes. There was a Doctor Who reference in the first book, which overall was really exciting, but this book has just hit a quagmire in the middle of it where all the female characters are either pregnant or in various stages of coping with the difficulties thereof. I'm a medieval reenactor; I know life sucked for women in the Middle Ages. Plus, I'm not a mother, for reasons which are complicated and diverse and beyond the scope of this review, and the topic simply doesn't interest me (at best) or irritates me (at worst). This is not what I'm here for. I'm not even sure if I'll finish the book at this point.
I started this series with high hopes. There was a Doctor Who reference in the first book, which overall was really exciting, but this book has just hit a quagmire in the middle of it where all the female characters are either pregnant or in various stages of coping with the difficulties thereof. I'm a medieval reenactor; I know life sucked for women in the Middle Ages. Plus, I'm not a mother, for reasons which are complicated and diverse and beyond the scope of this review, and the topic simply doesn't interest me (at best) or irritates me (at worst). This is not what I'm here for. I'm not even sure if I'll finish the book at this point.
December 31, 2019
In this second of the Wonderland series, Hugo and a pregnant Neve go back to London on their way to France to try to rescue Max, a descendent of Hugo's sister who is currently holding the title, when he follows Neve back through time and is mistaken for Hugo. They do their best to help him without exposing Hugo's part in pretending to be helping the Protestants when actually he is an undercover agent for the Catholic cause. Although they can't get the charge dismissed, they do get the death sentence dismissed in favor of sending him to the colonies as an indentured servant. A fun time travel story with lots of interesting characters.
March 13, 2024
I enjoy time travel
I read a lot of time travel and enjoy learning of historical places. The characters are well written and fleshed out in these stories.
The love between Hugo and Neve is refreshing. But he seems to be the only honorable and moral person in these books.
The story is of great interest but I don't see myself reading further. The immoral, brutal, dark, sordid, perverted content doesn't make for relaxing reading. Each character has some sordid story attached to each of them. The more perverted and cruel the better it seems.
I really like Hugo. Jen and even Archie. but enough is enough horror for me.
I read a lot of time travel and enjoy learning of historical places. The characters are well written and fleshed out in these stories.
The love between Hugo and Neve is refreshing. But he seems to be the only honorable and moral person in these books.
The story is of great interest but I don't see myself reading further. The immoral, brutal, dark, sordid, perverted content doesn't make for relaxing reading. Each character has some sordid story attached to each of them. The more perverted and cruel the better it seems.
I really like Hugo. Jen and even Archie. but enough is enough horror for me.
June 27, 2024
Very well written, such a nice change for an e-book series!!
I am enjoying this time travel series immensely, but several times I've been reminded of an overall theme of the Outlander books.
Glad to see that Finch finally got his come-uppance. So the next instalment will be in France (same as Outlander again), I just hope that Hugo & Neve will get a HEA and that twit-face Max will survive and mend his ways!
Great to get a series on Kindle Unlimited that is well written and all available free.
I read this book as part of my Kindle Unlimited subscription (free book but I have to pay £8.99 a month for the subscription)
I am enjoying this time travel series immensely, but several times I've been reminded of an overall theme of the Outlander books.
Glad to see that Finch finally got his come-uppance. So the next instalment will be in France (same as Outlander again), I just hope that Hugo & Neve will get a HEA and that twit-face Max will survive and mend his ways!
Great to get a series on Kindle Unlimited that is well written and all available free.
I read this book as part of my Kindle Unlimited subscription (free book but I have to pay £8.99 a month for the subscription)
June 5, 2026
"I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
I only finished this because it was a galley and I felt like I had to, to be able to give an honest review. I hate read and slogged through the end of this book - it was not for me.
The time travel premise felt wasted. this was historical fiction. There were brief if only I had twentieth century medicine references but this wasn't an Outlander or Blackout style book by any means. The romance aspects were fine until Hugo convices Neve to sleep with him in front of a child, because it's "normal for the time period". It just felt like unneccessary ick.
I only finished this because it was a galley and I felt like I had to, to be able to give an honest review. I hate read and slogged through the end of this book - it was not for me.
The time travel premise felt wasted. this was historical fiction. There were brief if only I had twentieth century medicine references but this wasn't an Outlander or Blackout style book by any means. The romance aspects were fine until Hugo convices Neve to sleep with him in front of a child, because it's "normal for the time period". It just felt like unneccessary ick.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you Netgalley, Dreamscape Select and Storm Publishing for an advanced audio copy in exchange for an honest review.
3.75* rounded up
Love me a great Gothic and atmospheric read!
Irina Shapiro is a master at setting a mood, so I requested this with no questions asked.
Therefore, I oopsied not realizing this was book two of a series, so I was missing the backstory, but was able to "keep up".
I do not recommend reading this as a standalone.
Hugo and Neve return to 17th century London to try and save Hugo's distant relative Max from the gallows.
With obstacles and betrayals around every turn, it won't be an easy task.
This was perfectly eerie.
It’s heavy on the dread and historical detail, which kept me reading.
Definitely great for a rainy day!
3.75* rounded up
Love me a great Gothic and atmospheric read!
Irina Shapiro is a master at setting a mood, so I requested this with no questions asked.
Therefore, I oopsied not realizing this was book two of a series, so I was missing the backstory, but was able to "keep up".
I do not recommend reading this as a standalone.
Hugo and Neve return to 17th century London to try and save Hugo's distant relative Max from the gallows.
With obstacles and betrayals around every turn, it won't be an easy task.
This was perfectly eerie.
It’s heavy on the dread and historical detail, which kept me reading.
Definitely great for a rainy day!
May 5, 2026
The author did a great job blending the expectations and experiences of a modern woman with the life of a woman in 1700’s England. She has to compromise more than she would in our world just because of her sex but because her love knows what she lived he gives her far more leeway than the century would have allowed. This is an epic love story with very real hardships of the time that strains and strengthens their relationship. This book is fairly somber so if you are a mood reader this is great for a cold, cloudy day.
The narrator did a great job with this story.
The narrator did a great job with this story.
August 13, 2018
Beautiful writing! Irina has a beautiful elegant way with her writing. I am so fond of the main characters, Hugo, Neve, and Archie. I am very much enjoying this journey we are on together!
The book had a really good turn of events, totally threw me off, but loved that. I am just really enjoying myself on this adventure. I love that Irina is slowly introducing new characters that I can follow and the writing just has me feeling like I'm right there with Neve and Hugo all the time!
Onto book 3!!
The book had a really good turn of events, totally threw me off, but loved that. I am just really enjoying myself on this adventure. I love that Irina is slowly introducing new characters that I can follow and the writing just has me feeling like I'm right there with Neve and Hugo all the time!
Onto book 3!!
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