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Echoes from the Past #1
The Lovers
1665. When Elise de Lesseps is sold in marriage to Lord Edward Asher, she resolves to be an obedient and dutiful wife, until, on their wedding night, she finds out exactly what her husband has in store for her. His request leaves her feeling shocked and humiliated, but being his chattel, she has no right to refuse. The consequences of that night seal Elise’s fate, and set her on a path that will lead to heartbreak and tragedy.
2013. Renowned archeologist, Dr. Quinn Allenby has a gift; she can see into the past when holding an object that belonged to the dead. When asked to host a BBC series called “Echoes from the Past,” Quinn uses her gift to find out what really happened to the 17th century couple known only as “The Lovers,” and unwittingly stumbles onto the secret of her own birth.
2013. Renowned archeologist, Dr. Quinn Allenby has a gift; she can see into the past when holding an object that belonged to the dead. When asked to host a BBC series called “Echoes from the Past,” Quinn uses her gift to find out what really happened to the 17th century couple known only as “The Lovers,” and unwittingly stumbles onto the secret of her own birth.
456 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 12, 2017
1637 people are currently reading
1195 people want to read
About the author
Irina Shapiro
84 books1,131 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 205 reviews
August 29, 2017
The Lovers (Echoes From The Past) by Irina Shapiro is a Kindle scout book. I really enjoyed this book. I liked the fantasy parts better than the romance parts, lol. The characters and plot is really good, the fantasy is great, and it is a light fantasy so those that don't like fantasy will like it. It is a romance but since it has the fantasy in it I liked it, lol. It is a good story regardless. It was almost like reading two stories, past and present. I liked the past one better. :)
August 21, 2017
Let me correct a couple of common misconceptions about the Kindle Scout program. If a book we voted for is published, we're given a thank-you copy, we don't 'win' it. And unlike netgalley, they don't ask or expect us to review it. That's why it's a gift, no obligation.
On to the review. Every once in a while you stumble over a new writer and think, 'why doesn't EVERYONE know about her? How is it possible I never heard about her before?' From the very first page, I was drawn in and could not put this one down.
The plot: This starts with a grab-you-by-the-throat prologue, and then it gets even better. Although it bounces between present day and mid-1600s London, it tells the story of two different sets of people, linked by Quinn Allenby, a forensic archeologist. She can read a person's life far back into the past by touching something they owned, a psychic of sorts. That's the only paranormal aspect of the story. BTW, to call this time-travel is unfair (sorry, time travel fans), because there is none.
The characters: The main characters are Quinn, her love interests, Rhys and Gabe, in present day London; and Lord Asher, Elise, and James in the 1600s. All are so well delineated that they're interesting with clearly understandable motivations even when you don't especially like them. *coughLord Ashercough* There were times that I wanted to yell 'just get a clue, Quinn!' because her personal life was such a mess. LOL
Would I spend my hard-earned cash on this book? yes
Would I recommend to friends & family? yes!
Will I search out the next one? you bet, I'm addicted now
Is this a Kindle Keeper (delete on pain of death)? definitely
Excellent writing, a haunting story, a curiously satisfying ending, and the best prologue ever. Did I mention the prologue? Eh. It bears repeating.
On to the review. Every once in a while you stumble over a new writer and think, 'why doesn't EVERYONE know about her? How is it possible I never heard about her before?' From the very first page, I was drawn in and could not put this one down.
The plot: This starts with a grab-you-by-the-throat prologue, and then it gets even better. Although it bounces between present day and mid-1600s London, it tells the story of two different sets of people, linked by Quinn Allenby, a forensic archeologist. She can read a person's life far back into the past by touching something they owned, a psychic of sorts. That's the only paranormal aspect of the story. BTW, to call this time-travel is unfair (sorry, time travel fans), because there is none.
The characters: The main characters are Quinn, her love interests, Rhys and Gabe, in present day London; and Lord Asher, Elise, and James in the 1600s. All are so well delineated that they're interesting with clearly understandable motivations even when you don't especially like them. *coughLord Ashercough* There were times that I wanted to yell 'just get a clue, Quinn!' because her personal life was such a mess. LOL
Would I spend my hard-earned cash on this book? yes
Would I recommend to friends & family? yes!
Will I search out the next one? you bet, I'm addicted now
Is this a Kindle Keeper (delete on pain of death)? definitely
Excellent writing, a haunting story, a curiously satisfying ending, and the best prologue ever. Did I mention the prologue? Eh. It bears repeating.
August 7, 2022
I really love the premise of this story and loved the first 2/3. At that point it was most likely a 4 star story for me even though I could see problems (mainly that the author wanted to put in too much in it). Then something happened that just didn't sit well. I felt that this didn't enrich the story-- it sort of felt that the author was taking an easy way out to have a point told, and for me it wasn't just an easy way out but disturbing. Also the last 1/3 of this book I felt like the pacing was off. It felt like the author realized that this book was long and she just want to finish the story.
But even with these problems I want to try the next book in this series. I want to see if Irina Shapiro polishes the series up; that she loses the info-dumping that was present in the first book and to see if the choices that she has her characters make are a little more intruguing and not just an easy choice to get the point told.
But even with these problems I want to try the next book in this series. I want to see if Irina Shapiro polishes the series up; that she loses the info-dumping that was present in the first book and to see if the choices that she has her characters make are a little more intruguing and not just an easy choice to get the point told.
August 31, 2018
In 1665 Elise de Laseppes has been biding her time, waiting to announce her secret betrothal to a common lad to her father. But one morning, her father calls for her, telling her to prepare for her wedding to Lord Asher. Lord Asher is rich, widowed, twice her age, and able to save the de Laseppes from ruin. While she wants nothing more than to run away with the boy who promises her the world, she can’t. Her two little sisters depend on her to keep the family afloat, even if they don’t fully understand it. So she leaves her childhood home to become the literal lady of the manor. But her well-bred husband hides more than one secret and Elise will be tasked with not only saving her family, but herself as her husband strives to get an heir.
In 2013 London, Dr. Quinn Allenby is straight off a nasty breakup and home from a successful archeological trip to Jerusalem when she receives a new task. A pair of skeletons was found in a chest, a makeshift coffin with evidence to show that neither person was dead when they were left alone in the dark. She’s approached by a producer who wants her to head a historical drama show, featuring the mysterious skeleton, and implores her to find the true story by any means necessary. Using her special skills, Quinn sets off to give them back their identities. But as she works to discover the skeletons’ pasts, her own comes into clearer focus.
Two women, centuries apart, brought together by chance and a blue brooch that holds the secret behind the hidden chest.
One of the hardest parts about writing reviews is that sometimes you need to leave out some of the best parts, as to not spoil anything. All I can say is that Quinn has certain abilities that ties her to Elise in a way she can’t fully explain. As more of Elise’s life is revealed, the deeper Quinn’s character development goes. She lives her life alongside Elise’s past in a seamless way that Shapiro should be congratulated for. It’s difficult to time hop without confusing readers or muddling the stories, but everything is crystal clear in this book by the end.
As a historian, I love to take note of the bits and pieces in all historicals I read. Shapiro’s book was a a fine example of a well researched piece. The food, clothing, ailments, and accessories such as birthing chairs and plague doctors were slipped in naturally, setting up the time period without it being forced. Still, Elise and her loved ones had personalities that transcended time.
The narration of The Lovers was wonderful. Wolfson’s voice was clear and easy to get lost in. The pace was perfect and the slight changes in the characters through their own voices wasn’t overdone or cartoonish as some are. Usually I limit my audiobook listening to car rides and dog walks, but I found myself listening to this one almost nonstop until the end.
In 2013 London, Dr. Quinn Allenby is straight off a nasty breakup and home from a successful archeological trip to Jerusalem when she receives a new task. A pair of skeletons was found in a chest, a makeshift coffin with evidence to show that neither person was dead when they were left alone in the dark. She’s approached by a producer who wants her to head a historical drama show, featuring the mysterious skeleton, and implores her to find the true story by any means necessary. Using her special skills, Quinn sets off to give them back their identities. But as she works to discover the skeletons’ pasts, her own comes into clearer focus.
Two women, centuries apart, brought together by chance and a blue brooch that holds the secret behind the hidden chest.
One of the hardest parts about writing reviews is that sometimes you need to leave out some of the best parts, as to not spoil anything. All I can say is that Quinn has certain abilities that ties her to Elise in a way she can’t fully explain. As more of Elise’s life is revealed, the deeper Quinn’s character development goes. She lives her life alongside Elise’s past in a seamless way that Shapiro should be congratulated for. It’s difficult to time hop without confusing readers or muddling the stories, but everything is crystal clear in this book by the end.
As a historian, I love to take note of the bits and pieces in all historicals I read. Shapiro’s book was a a fine example of a well researched piece. The food, clothing, ailments, and accessories such as birthing chairs and plague doctors were slipped in naturally, setting up the time period without it being forced. Still, Elise and her loved ones had personalities that transcended time.
The narration of The Lovers was wonderful. Wolfson’s voice was clear and easy to get lost in. The pace was perfect and the slight changes in the characters through their own voices wasn’t overdone or cartoonish as some are. Usually I limit my audiobook listening to car rides and dog walks, but I found myself listening to this one almost nonstop until the end.
January 20, 2018
This story was so captiviting when I saw it on Kindle scout that i had to give it my nomination and i was thrilled when it was selected. It is well written history fiction and romance in one. There are two stories intertwined, one about Elise de Lesseps that lived in 1665 and second about Doctor Quinn Allenby, an archeologist that i also a kind of psychic - when she touch the possessions of passed on people she can see their lives. Sometimes it can be a bittersweet gift watching the lifes of The lovers- two 400year old remains that were found undergroun on the construction site.With the help of Quinns visions we see their tragic love story but I won't go into details so I won't spoil others reading experiences.
I look forward to reading the next Echo from the past and other works from Shapiro
I look forward to reading the next Echo from the past and other works from Shapiro
March 19, 2021
There are so many things I loved about this book including the short prolog which grabbed me right away. I couldn’t put down this captivating story.
When construction workers dug up a chest they opened it and saw two skeletons lying face to face like they were kissing. After getting over the shock the workers named them The Lovers.
London 1665. Settling her fathers debt Elise is betrothed to Edward Asher and it broke her heart because she was in love with someone else. On her wedding night she is shocked and humiliated when Lord Asher expects her to do a disgraceful and unexpected thing which was the real reason for the marriage.
London 2013. Dr. Quinn Allenby is a forensic archaeologist and she has been called to investigate “The Lovers”. She has a gift that she keeps secret. She can see into past lives when she holds something they have owned.
Irina Shapiro has written a flawless story by having two stories, past and present, linked smoothly into one fascinating historical novel. She is truly a brilliant writer. Where has she been all of my reading life? This is a 9 book series and I'm just starting the 5th book and this is what I did the 2020 summer of the pandemic! Her novels certainly allowed me to to forget about the present world and dive into a world of the past.
When construction workers dug up a chest they opened it and saw two skeletons lying face to face like they were kissing. After getting over the shock the workers named them The Lovers.
London 1665. Settling her fathers debt Elise is betrothed to Edward Asher and it broke her heart because she was in love with someone else. On her wedding night she is shocked and humiliated when Lord Asher expects her to do a disgraceful and unexpected thing which was the real reason for the marriage.
London 2013. Dr. Quinn Allenby is a forensic archaeologist and she has been called to investigate “The Lovers”. She has a gift that she keeps secret. She can see into past lives when she holds something they have owned.
Irina Shapiro has written a flawless story by having two stories, past and present, linked smoothly into one fascinating historical novel. She is truly a brilliant writer. Where has she been all of my reading life? This is a 9 book series and I'm just starting the 5th book and this is what I did the 2020 summer of the pandemic! Her novels certainly allowed me to to forget about the present world and dive into a world of the past.
April 4, 2023
Great start with an unusually interesting storyline that quickly had my attention. This was a good book that could have been great. However, there was very little character development where this reader could become invested in the outcome. It missed a well-placed mark in my opinion.
September 15, 2023
Tragic story
I loved the older story about Elise and names and their tragic love. I didn't enjoy Quinn's so much. I tried but there was something about her that just didn't jive. But that other story was so sad and depressing. The twist at the end made me happy that the villain didn't quite win but they could have been saved. I can't express myself about it without spoilers but it was just so sad. They loved each other and his last thoughts were beautiful.
I loved the older story about Elise and names and their tragic love. I didn't enjoy Quinn's so much. I tried but there was something about her that just didn't jive. But that other story was so sad and depressing. The twist at the end made me happy that the villain didn't quite win but they could have been saved. I can't express myself about it without spoilers but it was just so sad. They loved each other and his last thoughts were beautiful.
August 2, 2021
October 2013. London, England. Irina Shapiro’s The Lovers (Echoes from the Past #1) begins as construction in the center of London uncovers an underground chamber “empty except for one large rectangle object.”. The chamber was clean- no mildew and the floor of packed earth “was dryas a bone”. The object in this subterranean room was attached by chain and locked with “an old-fashioned padlock, which was rusted with age and neglect.” The wood of the chest, though in good condition, was dusty. There was hardly space for the two men to stand next to the chest. The chain and lock were cut, and one man started “lifting the lid...”. “Jesus, Mary, and Joseph,” he yelled and made the cross on his chest.......”Sean, call the police. Now!”. Quite a beginning, don’t you think?! Dr. Quinn Allenby, a forensic archeologist, is requested by her boss to take on this case. BBC wants to produce a show on this find. Quinn’s boss knows Quinn can use her ‘gift’ to learn about these human remains which were once people just living their lives in 1664-1665. When Quinn holds an object that belonged to whatever human remains are found on a dig, she can ‘see’ the person and her/his life, but she wishes to keep her ‘gift’ a secret. She wants to be thought of as the excellent forensic archeologist she is and not a psychic. The author develops ’real’ characters, a story set during a horrific plague outbreak in 1665 during the reign of Charles II of England while Quinn deals with her own problems in 2013. I found this book fascinating. Highly recommended! 4.75 stars. “It was all worth it.”
November 27, 2021
I’d never read anything by this author before but a friend suggested this one. I liked Quinn in the modern timeline. The historical tale was mournful from the beginning. I don’t know if I’ll read more of this series because there is a lot of “telling” rather than “showing” that I confess made me want to skim. But I’m glad for the recommendation.
October 11, 2017
An interesting dual time period novel with a paranormal twist. I really enjoyed this authors last series and I am looking forward to where this one goes.
August 13, 2020
I love to be TOLD a story, but...
In this time travel romance, the author follows the lives of two women: one in 2013 and one in 1665. The contemporary heroine, Quinn, is a psychic archaeologist who can access the memories of people by holding something they owned. A brooch found in a coffin bearing the skeletons of two people dating to the seventeenth century in London takes Quinn back to Elise's mind, where she relives the experiences of this ill-fated young woman.
As an avid fan of time travels and one who has read many, I found this book a disappointment. Character development is shabby: the entire story seems to be rushed along between critical scenes, where "filler" appears as scene description and internal narrative. Quinn is a squirrel, vacillating from page to page between anger, sorrow, and self-loathing, to euphoric insta-love. She's an archeologist: her actions and character do not ring true to an educated, scientifically minded individual. Elise, who is slightly more real to the reader, suffers often from the dreaded "too stupid to live" syndrome.
Quinn's "secret gift" (called psychometry, by the way, a word never mentioned in the book) remains in the shadows and is used only as a basis for why we are reading the tales of two women who lived almost 500 years apart. Other characters, including the heroes in both centuries as well as the villain, are thinly developed veneers.
My main issues with this book are repetition (the editor should have caught these) and lots and lots of TELLING without showing, with huge paragraphs of narrative it took effort not to skim. SPOILER ALERT: By far the most disappointing was the fact that this book is a blatant set-up--the author leaves both story lines hanging, with no completion of character arcs anywhere. Of course, we are lured to buy the next book in a proposed 9 book series to find out the answers.
Ms. Shapiro, books are not TV series. A reader expects a degree of closure at the end of each novel, with some sort of character change--not a cliffhanger compelling them to "tune in next week." It's personally why I read and don't watch TV series. Needless to say, I will not be continuing on in the "Echoes from the Past" series.
In this time travel romance, the author follows the lives of two women: one in 2013 and one in 1665. The contemporary heroine, Quinn, is a psychic archaeologist who can access the memories of people by holding something they owned. A brooch found in a coffin bearing the skeletons of two people dating to the seventeenth century in London takes Quinn back to Elise's mind, where she relives the experiences of this ill-fated young woman.
As an avid fan of time travels and one who has read many, I found this book a disappointment. Character development is shabby: the entire story seems to be rushed along between critical scenes, where "filler" appears as scene description and internal narrative. Quinn is a squirrel, vacillating from page to page between anger, sorrow, and self-loathing, to euphoric insta-love. She's an archeologist: her actions and character do not ring true to an educated, scientifically minded individual. Elise, who is slightly more real to the reader, suffers often from the dreaded "too stupid to live" syndrome.
Quinn's "secret gift" (called psychometry, by the way, a word never mentioned in the book) remains in the shadows and is used only as a basis for why we are reading the tales of two women who lived almost 500 years apart. Other characters, including the heroes in both centuries as well as the villain, are thinly developed veneers.
My main issues with this book are repetition (the editor should have caught these) and lots and lots of TELLING without showing, with huge paragraphs of narrative it took effort not to skim. SPOILER ALERT: By far the most disappointing was the fact that this book is a blatant set-up--the author leaves both story lines hanging, with no completion of character arcs anywhere. Of course, we are lured to buy the next book in a proposed 9 book series to find out the answers.
Ms. Shapiro, books are not TV series. A reader expects a degree of closure at the end of each novel, with some sort of character change--not a cliffhanger compelling them to "tune in next week." It's personally why I read and don't watch TV series. Needless to say, I will not be continuing on in the "Echoes from the Past" series.
April 9, 2018
Well.... I did like the story. I love historical novels, I love history, and of course I have often dreamed I could look back and see the people who were here before me. But... This book had a few draw backs, which were quite off putting for me.
The constant American terminology, for instance, coming from an apparently British character, was simply annoying. We don't have sidewalks, here they're called pavements, a trunk would be a car boot, etc. These seem pretty trivial things, but it was a detail that made it difficult for me to relate.
Another point I found disappointing was the seeming "advice", about reporting a rape that happened in the past, she got from her male friend, who was a respected, well educated person, whom she looked up to, was very questionable. In this day and age, even in fictional books, I think it is important to never feel a rape victim like they can't speak up. I don't know... Maybe I'm being overly sensitive, but it bothered me.
Anyway. Basically this is a good idea for a story, I would be interested to find out more about the surviving child. But less of the present day romance - that part was tedious.
The constant American terminology, for instance, coming from an apparently British character, was simply annoying. We don't have sidewalks, here they're called pavements, a trunk would be a car boot, etc. These seem pretty trivial things, but it was a detail that made it difficult for me to relate.
Another point I found disappointing was the seeming "advice", about reporting a rape that happened in the past, she got from her male friend, who was a respected, well educated person, whom she looked up to, was very questionable. In this day and age, even in fictional books, I think it is important to never feel a rape victim like they can't speak up. I don't know... Maybe I'm being overly sensitive, but it bothered me.
Anyway. Basically this is a good idea for a story, I would be interested to find out more about the surviving child. But less of the present day romance - that part was tedious.
July 23, 2018
This is a story that will stay with me for a very long time. Irina Shapiro is an amazing storyteller. I read at least a couple of books a week so how has it taken me this long to find her? Lovers is the type of story we all hope to have when starting a new book, that gem of a story that will make you want to cancel plans and call in sick to work. Nothing else matters except the story of the two lovers. I loved having the two stories running simultaneously as both stories held my interest equally. The blurb let’s you know that one of those stories ends tragically but I was still not prepared for the total devastation I felt at the conclusion of James and Elise. I was emotional drained and literally cried as I opened an expensive bottle of wine to mourn the Lovers. Wendy Wolfson did an amazing job bringing this story to life. Her narration was perfect for the story. I probably could go on and on as once my review is written the book will truely be over and I’m just not ready for that. Luckily I already purchased book 2.
September 2, 2017
An excellent dual time line book taking place between 1665 and present times. Quinn has a psychic ability to experience the lives of people past just by touching archaeological artifacts. This leads us to learn about the stories of people from long ago and all that they went through.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, and found it "unputdownable". I can highly recommend reading it, you won't be disappointed. I'm also very pleased to find out this is the first of a series!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, and found it "unputdownable". I can highly recommend reading it, you won't be disappointed. I'm also very pleased to find out this is the first of a series!
August 19, 2017
Excellent
Not really into mysteries but this was well worth reading. The storyline pulls you in to the last page. I really didn't want the book to end. Can't wait for the next book
Not really into mysteries but this was well worth reading. The storyline pulls you in to the last page. I really didn't want the book to end. Can't wait for the next book
January 4, 2020
I ADORED this book!! One of the love stories took place in England in the 1600s, during the reign of Charles II. The second love story took place in southern England in 2013. The Historical and Contemporary tales are superbly interwoven. Ms. Shapiro did an outstanding job on the characters as well. Those I loved like Quinn and Alyssa, I truly loved. And those I hated, well, you get the gist. It is just one of the most well written and heart-wrenching books I've read.
Now, mind you, it's a long book but it needed to be. I just wanted it to keep on going and going and going. Luckily there are currently 7 in this series in Kindle plus #8 in January so I kinda get my wish! As far as who would/should read this, it would be best for mature readers.
Wendy Wolfson did the narration and she did a terrific job. She had a LOT of voices to keep track of and she did so well. Lots of animation to her voice and she really helped keep the story both interesting and moving along. Great job.
5 Stars*****
I was given this free review copy of this audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Now, mind you, it's a long book but it needed to be. I just wanted it to keep on going and going and going. Luckily there are currently 7 in this series in Kindle plus #8 in January so I kinda get my wish! As far as who would/should read this, it would be best for mature readers.
Wendy Wolfson did the narration and she did a terrific job. She had a LOT of voices to keep track of and she did so well. Lots of animation to her voice and she really helped keep the story both interesting and moving along. Great job.
5 Stars*****
I was given this free review copy of this audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
September 1, 2019
I listened to the audiobook version of this book.
The first 3-5 chapters, I had to sort of adjust to the subtle nature of narrator's style. It was actually a great performance throughout and she was an excellent pick for this story and really brought our the characters to life. She has a more subtle way of speaking than what I am used to and it was a happy surprise.
Due to adjusting to the narrator, the first 3-5 chapters seemed a smidge slow to me and I found myself to be mostly indifferent towards Quinn. I was mostly wanting to get back to listening to Elise and James' story and what happened next with them. However, as the story went on, Quinn grew on me as a character and I was able to enjoy and appreciate the things she was going through in her parts of the story. The author wrote the story in such a way that we know where it will end up, but it still comes as a bit of a shock anyways. I wholly enjoyed this story and I look forward to more by this author and narrator.
The first 3-5 chapters, I had to sort of adjust to the subtle nature of narrator's style. It was actually a great performance throughout and she was an excellent pick for this story and really brought our the characters to life. She has a more subtle way of speaking than what I am used to and it was a happy surprise.
Due to adjusting to the narrator, the first 3-5 chapters seemed a smidge slow to me and I found myself to be mostly indifferent towards Quinn. I was mostly wanting to get back to listening to Elise and James' story and what happened next with them. However, as the story went on, Quinn grew on me as a character and I was able to enjoy and appreciate the things she was going through in her parts of the story. The author wrote the story in such a way that we know where it will end up, but it still comes as a bit of a shock anyways. I wholly enjoyed this story and I look forward to more by this author and narrator.
July 31, 2021
Super entertaining read, reminded me a lot of Barbara Michaels with some time travel thrown in but done in a really smooth way. It's quite believable and a great way to tell two stories at the same time. Interested in reading the next!
November 17, 2024
Great story can't wait to read the next.
April 5, 2018
A solid 4.5/5 for me. In a sea of bad boys, bllionaires, bad boy billionaires, rockers, and athletes, this was quite an interesting and very different story. This is part of a trilogy, therefore there are several unanswered questions at the end. If you aren't ready to read 'The Forgotten' and wait for 'The Unforgiven', then don't start this one. Well edited.
This is the second book by Ms. Shapiro that I have read. Like the first one, it has 2 stories running, separate but connected. This one begins with the discovery of a chest with two skeletons entwined together in death. They are quickly dubbed 'The Lovers' by the media, and Dr. Gabriel Russell and his colleague, Dr. Quinn Allenby, are called in to consult.
The story of 'The Lovers' takes place in 1664-1665, when women were treated as little more than property. Elise wakes one day to find herself sold in marriage by her father to one Lord Asher to partially settle a debt. She is quite devastated, as she had planned to marry her father's employee, Gavin. However, she has no say in the matter, her entire life at the mercy of her father. Lord Asher is roughly 30 years older than Elise, and he has had a wife, as well as at least one mistress. On her wedding day, Lord Asher informs her that she is expected to deliver him an heir, and any other children he desires. What follows is a heartbreaking tale of how and why Elise winds up in the chest.
Meanwhile, Dr. Quinn Allenby has the ability to hold objects and see and feel the life of the deceased who possessed said object. She is an archaeologist, and this gift comes in quite handy. Since there are objects left from both of The Lovers, Quinn is able to get a really good understanding of the entirety of their story. Her own life is also the subject of this book. She was abandoned shortly after birth in a church, and subsequently adopted by a wonderful couple. However, as many adoptees do, she wants to know the story of her origins. Who were her birth parents? Where do they come from? How did she get this psychic gift? In addition, she has recently come home from a dig to find her long time boyfriend has moved out, moved to America, and moved on. Her colleague, Gabriel, has long had feelings for Quinn, and jumps at the chance to finally declare his feelings. Quinn struggles to deal with the break-up of her long time relationship and with the realization of Gabe's feelings for her. The discovery of The Lovers, also brings Rhys Morgan into her life. He is a producer for the BBC, and wants to produce a show about the discovery and any other interesting archaeological find. Rhys turns out to be tied to Quinn's past in a most unsettling way.
By the end, The Lovers have been entombed, Quinn has some answers to her past - but more questions, and Quinn and Gabe are moving forward with their life together.
Overall, this is a very moving story. As far as it is possible to hate a fictional character, I hate Edward Asher. His motivation and subsequent actions are just horrid. It is important in understanding Elise to remember how things were done in her time period. Elise would have had little to no say about anything in her life. Until she married, she was under the power and control of her father. Once married, she was under the power and control of her husband. While love did exist, it was generally not the driving force in decision making. Rather, decisions were made on advantage and profitability. Would this marriage be beneficial to our family, our standing in society, or financially? Elise doesn't protest her marriage, mostly because she really can't, but also because her refusal would bring financial ruin on her family and ruin marriage prospects for her younger sisters. Shortly after her marriage, she finds that all she has ever been to the men in her life is a means to an end. There are so many other aspects that should be considered before judging Elise as weak. She lived in a time when men held absolute power, fear of crossing certain lines and thereby imperiling your soul was real, and just surviving day to day took courage and determination. In the end, to have even grasped the small amount of happiness she did took great courage.
I look forward to the remaining stories, hoping that some of my questions will be answered along the way. Enjoy.
This is the second book by Ms. Shapiro that I have read. Like the first one, it has 2 stories running, separate but connected. This one begins with the discovery of a chest with two skeletons entwined together in death. They are quickly dubbed 'The Lovers' by the media, and Dr. Gabriel Russell and his colleague, Dr. Quinn Allenby, are called in to consult.
The story of 'The Lovers' takes place in 1664-1665, when women were treated as little more than property. Elise wakes one day to find herself sold in marriage by her father to one Lord Asher to partially settle a debt. She is quite devastated, as she had planned to marry her father's employee, Gavin. However, she has no say in the matter, her entire life at the mercy of her father. Lord Asher is roughly 30 years older than Elise, and he has had a wife, as well as at least one mistress. On her wedding day, Lord Asher informs her that she is expected to deliver him an heir, and any other children he desires. What follows is a heartbreaking tale of how and why Elise winds up in the chest.
Meanwhile, Dr. Quinn Allenby has the ability to hold objects and see and feel the life of the deceased who possessed said object. She is an archaeologist, and this gift comes in quite handy. Since there are objects left from both of The Lovers, Quinn is able to get a really good understanding of the entirety of their story. Her own life is also the subject of this book. She was abandoned shortly after birth in a church, and subsequently adopted by a wonderful couple. However, as many adoptees do, she wants to know the story of her origins. Who were her birth parents? Where do they come from? How did she get this psychic gift? In addition, she has recently come home from a dig to find her long time boyfriend has moved out, moved to America, and moved on. Her colleague, Gabriel, has long had feelings for Quinn, and jumps at the chance to finally declare his feelings. Quinn struggles to deal with the break-up of her long time relationship and with the realization of Gabe's feelings for her. The discovery of The Lovers, also brings Rhys Morgan into her life. He is a producer for the BBC, and wants to produce a show about the discovery and any other interesting archaeological find. Rhys turns out to be tied to Quinn's past in a most unsettling way.
By the end, The Lovers have been entombed, Quinn has some answers to her past - but more questions, and Quinn and Gabe are moving forward with their life together.
Overall, this is a very moving story. As far as it is possible to hate a fictional character, I hate Edward Asher. His motivation and subsequent actions are just horrid. It is important in understanding Elise to remember how things were done in her time period. Elise would have had little to no say about anything in her life. Until she married, she was under the power and control of her father. Once married, she was under the power and control of her husband. While love did exist, it was generally not the driving force in decision making. Rather, decisions were made on advantage and profitability. Would this marriage be beneficial to our family, our standing in society, or financially? Elise doesn't protest her marriage, mostly because she really can't, but also because her refusal would bring financial ruin on her family and ruin marriage prospects for her younger sisters. Shortly after her marriage, she finds that all she has ever been to the men in her life is a means to an end. There are so many other aspects that should be considered before judging Elise as weak. She lived in a time when men held absolute power, fear of crossing certain lines and thereby imperiling your soul was real, and just surviving day to day took courage and determination. In the end, to have even grasped the small amount of happiness she did took great courage.
I look forward to the remaining stories, hoping that some of my questions will be answered along the way. Enjoy.
June 14, 2022
I had my doubts about this series, but it really pulled through for me in the end.
And that's saying a lot considering the fact that books in this vein usually aren't my jam.
Quinn, is an archeologist who has the ability to look into the past when touching certain objects. At the beginning of our book, two mysterious bodies are uncovered in a trunk at a construction site. When it becomes clear that these bodies are centuries old, Quinn is hired to delve deeper into the history of our "lovers" (given their eternal embrace), secretly using her ability to retell their story.
Due to the nature and set up of this book, you spend a lot of time in past and present. In the present, you spend a lot of time learning Quinn and her history. While in the past, you see through the eyes of Elise and James, the two lovers found in the beginning of the book.
This is a challenging feat for any author. Especially when trying to make the past and present transitions work.
Irina Shapiro does this well. The only drawback to this is that, as the reader, you usually end up caring about one set of characters more than the other. In my case, Elise and James. Quinn's present day problems paled in comparison, and I found myself only wanting to learn more about Elise, and not too much caring about Quinn's personal drama. Even though it became mildly interesting towards the end.
All and all, it worked alright. But I still felt that this could have been executed better. It didn't happen often, but at points in the story it made the pacing weird.
The only other thing I can honestly say I disliked about this book was the ending. It felt rushed. And when Mercy witnesses what happens to Elise and James and does nothing to help them, it left me thinking "What the fuck, kid". I understood her logic with helping a certain little person, but I didn't understand why she couldn't come back with help, and help her uncle and Elise too.
I mean....it literally took them days, DAYS to die. Her only excuse is that maybe she thought they were already dead. But still....wtf?
Other than that, this book was great. The characters seem a little distant at times. I contribute that mostly to this authors writing style and her writing in third person. But I still strongly felt for Elise and James most of all in this book. I have a soft spot for tragic romances.
Especially when you get heart wrenching lines like this:
He inched his way closer to Elise and pressed his lips against hers in a final kiss. “Sleep well, my love,” he whispered as his eyes closed. They would lie together for eternity, locked in a kiss of love and devotion. James let out a final breath as his heart stilled.
Also, the writing was good, the story was engaging, and the I felt close enough to most of the characters to kinda like them or feel for them. 4 stars.
August 18, 2017
I enjoyed this book very much. I love Quinn and can't wait for the next book. Elise's strory was sad, but really couldn't have ended any other way.
June 18, 2022
***SPOILERS***
***Trigger warning - rape***
This book has a lot of things wrong with it …. but ….. I just couldn’t put it down! I don’t know what it was but I was totally swept up in Quinn and Elise’s lives from the first chapter.
So I’ll be honest and say this is not the best written book out there and the plot and topic isn’t even that original. It doesn’t delve into gender roles during the 17th century in any way that I haven’t read before, but only explores it on a surface level. It also didn’t explore the trauma of adoption more than any other books I’ve read. And Quinn’s gifts aren’t really explored or explained (but maybe this comes in the next books in the series).
Also, one of the twists was so far fetched and very convenient, and as there was no hint or build up to this revelation it took me totally by surprise. However, I just didn’t care that all these things were lacking. I didn’t read this book for that, I read this for a modern/historical romance and that is what I got, albeit a very over the top one! And I was so invested in the characters that even though we are told about their fate in the prologue I just kept hoping that there would be a twist and it would have been two other people from their household so I was a bit gutted to learn the ending but I did appreciate the epilogue!
Ps. I feel like I have to say something about the rape scene as it left me with a very bitter taste in my mouth. I was enjoying this book for what is was until the very misguided part about Sylvia’s rape. I tried to defend it to myself by saying it was written before the #metoo movement so I should read it in context but then I realised it was written by a woman and I just feel that, as a woman author, the treatment of such a violent act should have been dealt with differently. It’s almost like Sylvia wasn’t believed until there was proof (nothing new there I suppose) but it’s what Rys says that really annoyed me. He seems to just dismiss it as what stupid, cowardly boys do. Again, I tried to tell myself that this is the point, like a critique of society and how they treat rape victims but I just know that the author didn’t go this deep, that this book isn’t delving into these important social conversations. I don’t know, maybe if I read it years ago I would have just seen it as inevitable that it would be treated like this but now it just enraged me!!!
***Trigger warning - rape***
This book has a lot of things wrong with it …. but ….. I just couldn’t put it down! I don’t know what it was but I was totally swept up in Quinn and Elise’s lives from the first chapter.
So I’ll be honest and say this is not the best written book out there and the plot and topic isn’t even that original. It doesn’t delve into gender roles during the 17th century in any way that I haven’t read before, but only explores it on a surface level. It also didn’t explore the trauma of adoption more than any other books I’ve read. And Quinn’s gifts aren’t really explored or explained (but maybe this comes in the next books in the series).
Also, one of the twists was so far fetched and very convenient, and as there was no hint or build up to this revelation it took me totally by surprise. However, I just didn’t care that all these things were lacking. I didn’t read this book for that, I read this for a modern/historical romance and that is what I got, albeit a very over the top one! And I was so invested in the characters that even though we are told about their fate in the prologue I just kept hoping that there would be a twist and it would have been two other people from their household so I was a bit gutted to learn the ending but I did appreciate the epilogue!
Ps. I feel like I have to say something about the rape scene as it left me with a very bitter taste in my mouth. I was enjoying this book for what is was until the very misguided part about Sylvia’s rape. I tried to defend it to myself by saying it was written before the #metoo movement so I should read it in context but then I realised it was written by a woman and I just feel that, as a woman author, the treatment of such a violent act should have been dealt with differently. It’s almost like Sylvia wasn’t believed until there was proof (nothing new there I suppose) but it’s what Rys says that really annoyed me. He seems to just dismiss it as what stupid, cowardly boys do. Again, I tried to tell myself that this is the point, like a critique of society and how they treat rape victims but I just know that the author didn’t go this deep, that this book isn’t delving into these important social conversations. I don’t know, maybe if I read it years ago I would have just seen it as inevitable that it would be treated like this but now it just enraged me!!!
September 17, 2017
The Lovers was well written, with compelling writing that did enable me to finish reading it in less than two days, however, it wasn't perfect. The story unfolds between two timelines, 1665-1666, and 2013 London, but I found myself skimming over the modern day portion of the story as it failed to completely draw me in. I felt very little for Quinn over the course of the book, her characterisation failed to grasp my full empathy. The entire 'birth secret' was not as gripping nor intense as I believed it would be. Although that may be my over-active imagination immediately going to the most far-fetched of explanations. Subsequently, nothing happened in the book that I haven't seen before, nor would have been able to guess. The historical aspect, however, had my full attention. I felt more for Elise than I ever did for Quinn in just as many chapters. Elise's plotline was more intriguing, but after Gavin was out of the picture it was extremely easy to guess what was going to happen in the end. The last few chapters felt extremely rushed as well, with too much plotline fitting into fewer chapters. Not only at the end, but a few aspects of the story never seemed to be fleshed out, and were brushed aside and glossed over in favour of the main plot continuing. More mystery and dramatic build-up would have made the story all that more enthralling.
Despite some disappointments, the book is definitely worth reading as it does evoke emotions once you're invested in it. For fans of romance, it's definitely a book to read, but not so much for mystery or fantasy as these aspects aren't as included or effective as the others.
Despite some disappointments, the book is definitely worth reading as it does evoke emotions once you're invested in it. For fans of romance, it's definitely a book to read, but not so much for mystery or fantasy as these aspects aren't as included or effective as the others.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2018
I was a bit skeptical going into this book...not sure how the two timelines would work...but, oh my, am I glad that it did not scare me off!!! The writing was stellar, the narration was on point and I want more!!
The book starts of with the discovery of a chest with human remains, that appear to be from the 17th century, and dubbed 'the Lovers'. Renowned archeologist, Dr. Quinn Allenby, is called in by producers from BBC, who are doing a series "Echoes from the Past" on this discovery. Quinn is a psychic and can see into the past by touching objects. When Quinn touches a piece of jewelry that is found in the chest, she begins to see into the life of Elise de Lesseps, a 17 yo English woman that was sold to Lord Asher to satisfy her father's debts. What should have been a joyous time in her young life, turns into one of humiliation and loneliness, but, since she is 'just chattel' to her new husband, Elise has no choice.
The story of this courageous and kind hearted young woman is heart rending...so glad that I wasn't born into that time in history!!! Amidst discovering the life and mystery surrounding the deaths of 'the Lovers', Quinn is discovering secrets of her own past. This book is captivating and one of those 'unputdownable' ones for me...I completed it in one day. If you enjoy romantic suspense and historical genre, this combo is definitely for you!
I voluntarily accepted a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
The book starts of with the discovery of a chest with human remains, that appear to be from the 17th century, and dubbed 'the Lovers'. Renowned archeologist, Dr. Quinn Allenby, is called in by producers from BBC, who are doing a series "Echoes from the Past" on this discovery. Quinn is a psychic and can see into the past by touching objects. When Quinn touches a piece of jewelry that is found in the chest, she begins to see into the life of Elise de Lesseps, a 17 yo English woman that was sold to Lord Asher to satisfy her father's debts. What should have been a joyous time in her young life, turns into one of humiliation and loneliness, but, since she is 'just chattel' to her new husband, Elise has no choice.
The story of this courageous and kind hearted young woman is heart rending...so glad that I wasn't born into that time in history!!! Amidst discovering the life and mystery surrounding the deaths of 'the Lovers', Quinn is discovering secrets of her own past. This book is captivating and one of those 'unputdownable' ones for me...I completed it in one day. If you enjoy romantic suspense and historical genre, this combo is definitely for you!
I voluntarily accepted a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
October 10, 2020
Exciting Premise Terribly Executed
I loved the idea of this when I first discovered it. Initially, I found the writing dense and difficult to get through but the story was intriguing so I kept going.
But then again the men in this book became unbearable. I expected it of Lord Asher since he lived in the 1600s. I did not expect it of Gabe - an educated man in modern times. But there he was, putting all his expectations on Quinn. He made her responsible for his happiness. He expected her to just fall into his arms and when she didn’t (because, y’know, she had just been dumped and was going through a lot) he got angry with her! He was jealous and possessive through out. Oh and don’t get me started on that bull about women regretting sex so they accuse men of rape. (If I hadn’t been reading on my phone I would have thrown the book across the room.)
The entire relationship between Quinn and Gabe was problematic. It would take ages to list it all out.
And the writing was poor. The author told us the whole story, never showing us scenes. She would tell about events that had already happened but we should have seen them. Even small moments in a scene - she would tell us someone had been given drink after they took a sip. It was very bizarre.
I skimmed most of this book and finally stopped. DNF.
I loved the idea of this when I first discovered it. Initially, I found the writing dense and difficult to get through but the story was intriguing so I kept going.
But then again the men in this book became unbearable. I expected it of Lord Asher since he lived in the 1600s. I did not expect it of Gabe - an educated man in modern times. But there he was, putting all his expectations on Quinn. He made her responsible for his happiness. He expected her to just fall into his arms and when she didn’t (because, y’know, she had just been dumped and was going through a lot) he got angry with her! He was jealous and possessive through out. Oh and don’t get me started on that bull about women regretting sex so they accuse men of rape. (If I hadn’t been reading on my phone I would have thrown the book across the room.)
The entire relationship between Quinn and Gabe was problematic. It would take ages to list it all out.
And the writing was poor. The author told us the whole story, never showing us scenes. She would tell about events that had already happened but we should have seen them. Even small moments in a scene - she would tell us someone had been given drink after they took a sip. It was very bizarre.
I skimmed most of this book and finally stopped. DNF.
February 8, 2021
The author does a good job of jumping between two women's stories - the life of an archeologist and the life of a woman in the 1600s England - and giving you good opportunities to develop empathy and connection to the characters. There is nothing stilted or awkward about the historical stories. The book is easy to read; it flows nicely. I liked it as a light read that was still an intelligent read.
I immediately started into the second book of the series which I also liked. The series is stories that are loosely connected by an overall framework, but stand nearly completely on their own as well. The historical stories are distinct and separate. The story of the archeologist is continuing. The framework allows for this "recipe" to continue on to many other books if she chose to expand the series.
Looking at the other books by this author, it seems she pretty much sticks to variations of this "recipe" in many of her books, which will eventually irritate me, but I enjoy her writing enough that if I space them apart it won't be so bothersome. I'm starting book three now and already a little tired of the formula so I may put it down and come back to it.
I immediately started into the second book of the series which I also liked. The series is stories that are loosely connected by an overall framework, but stand nearly completely on their own as well. The historical stories are distinct and separate. The story of the archeologist is continuing. The framework allows for this "recipe" to continue on to many other books if she chose to expand the series.
Looking at the other books by this author, it seems she pretty much sticks to variations of this "recipe" in many of her books, which will eventually irritate me, but I enjoy her writing enough that if I space them apart it won't be so bothersome. I'm starting book three now and already a little tired of the formula so I may put it down and come back to it.
September 23, 2017
Loved it
I loved this book so much that it was hard for me to put down and go to bed some nights. The characters came alive and jumped off the pages. I couldn't wait to find out what happened next. If you love historical fiction then this is a book that you need to read and hopefully enjoy as much as I did.
I don't want to give anything away but know the story has a tragic ending but there is also a journey full of hope and love and I couldn't help but get swept up in it all. I did enjoy the historical story arc more so then the modern times arc. The modern day arc didn't flow as smoothly in my opinion and while enjoyable didn't seem as well developed as the other.
I did receive a copy of The Lovers after nominating it on kindle scout and it being selected for publication.
I loved this book so much that it was hard for me to put down and go to bed some nights. The characters came alive and jumped off the pages. I couldn't wait to find out what happened next. If you love historical fiction then this is a book that you need to read and hopefully enjoy as much as I did.
I don't want to give anything away but know the story has a tragic ending but there is also a journey full of hope and love and I couldn't help but get swept up in it all. I did enjoy the historical story arc more so then the modern times arc. The modern day arc didn't flow as smoothly in my opinion and while enjoyable didn't seem as well developed as the other.
I did receive a copy of The Lovers after nominating it on kindle scout and it being selected for publication.
May 20, 2024
The book started out decently. Both stories (past and present) were interesting, although Elise had the far more compelling plot.
The last 1/3 of the novel was deeply problematic, especially the love story involving Gabe. His response to the rape plotline is reprehensible, and we're supposed to see his skepticism as "scientific objectivity."
Gabe's love story with Quinn is equally problematic. After she has a terrible breakup from an 8 year relationship, she says she's not ready. But he harasses and badgers her into dating him. When she refuses, he sulks like a child until she changes her mind.
If Gabe is the primary love interest, what sort of message is this book trying to convey?
The last 1/3 of the novel was deeply problematic, especially the love story involving Gabe. His response to the rape plotline is reprehensible, and we're supposed to see his skepticism as "scientific objectivity."
Gabe's love story with Quinn is equally problematic. After she has a terrible breakup from an 8 year relationship, she says she's not ready. But he harasses and badgers her into dating him. When she refuses, he sulks like a child until she changes her mind.
If Gabe is the primary love interest, what sort of message is this book trying to convey?
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