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2014. When skeletal remains are discovered in a bathtub concealed in a secret chamber in a London mansion, Quinn’s only clue is a Fabergé necklace that may have belonged to the victim. As she delves into the life of Valentina, a young Russian refugee who came to live in the house after the Russian Revolution, she’s reminded once again that sometimes truth is stranger than fiction. 1917. Wealthy, beautiful, and titled, Valentina has enjoyed a gilded existence, but the winds of change blow across Russia, forever sweeping away the life she knew and bringing unspeakable pain and loss. Thrust into the role of head of the family, Valentina quickly learns that not everyone can be trusted, and sometimes true love can be found in the most unexpected places.

382 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 8, 2019

576 people are currently reading
173 people want to read

About the author

Irina Shapiro

84 books1,134 followers
To 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...

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5 stars
1,108 (64%)
4 stars
486 (28%)
3 stars
116 (6%)
2 stars
16 (<1%)
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1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
Profile Image for Cindy Kline.
366 reviews6 followers
January 12, 2019
Consistent

I’ve read all of this author’s work so far. There was a time when I couldn’t get enough. Not so much, now. She’s gotten comfortable with the material and doesn’t share as much detail now. I read the enclosed prequel too. I feel “done” with Quinn’s gift but still intrigued about Jo. I will be reading more of Irina Shapiro.
Profile Image for Nisareen.
458 reviews13 followers
July 18, 2019
1917: On the eve of the Russian Revolution, newly engaged, seventeen year old Valentina Kalinina has no idea how drastically her life is about to change. Having come from a privileged and sheltered background, she is unprepared when revolution breaks out, bringing unspeakable pain and loss. Her country now in turmoil, Valentina and her family seek refuge in England, in the hopes of a new life. Thrust into the role as head of the family, Valentina must contend with deceit and a betrayal that will end murder and the ultimate sacrifice.

2014: When skeletal remains are discovered in a bathtub, concealed in a hidden chamber of a London mansion, Quinn’s only clue is is Fabergé necklace that may have belonged to the victim. As she tries to piece together Valentina’s life, Quinn must juggle her job, motherhood, her search for her twin sister as well as her relationship with her estranged mother.

The Unseen is the fifth compelling instalment of the Echoes of the Past series and is a dual time novel set in 1917 and 2014. This time the author transports us back to the eve of the Russian Revolution. We’re given a brief insight into the chaos and violence following the storming of the Winter Palace by the Bolsheviks who ousted the provisional government and proclaimed Russia to be the first communist state.

Due to their wealth and prestige, which had now become a death sentence, Valentina is forced to flee to England where they must rely on the hospitality of a friend of their mothers, Dimitri Ostrov. And so begins the defining chapter in Valentina’s life that will see her try to put her grief aside for the life she has left behind, in place of the hardship she experiences as she tries to adapt to her new life a foreign land. Some of the things that Valentina had to endure was extremely hard to read and yet despite it all I couldn’t help but admire her quiet strength and self sacrifice.

It was great catching up with Quinn as she juggled motherhood as well as her job. It was good to see Gabe being so supportive as a husband and father. We finally learn the truth about Sylvia and the night Quinn was conceived as well as answers on the whereabouts of her twin sister, Jo.

This has been another well executed thoroughly entertaining novel, magnificently threaded and building to a climax that is neat and satisfying.

I received an advanced free audible copy of The Unseen and I am voluntarily reviewing it. Wendy Wolfson has once again masterfully brought the characters and story to life with her clear, concise narration. I recommend this series for fans of historical fiction, dual time mysteries and psychic gifts.
1 review
May 1, 2020
I haven't yet read all the books from Echoes... This is my 5th, but this far it”s my favorite. Couldn't tear myself from it! Not because I'm Russian and know too well about events and customs described in the book, but because i immensly enjoyed the mystery and atmosphere. I must admit it was really painful to read about Valentina's terrible experience with men, but it ingnited the hatred for her cousin and helped to justify all her later actions. Thanks to the author of these wonderful books we can feel grater appreciation of freedom that women have nowadays. All ordinary romance novels romantisize the past and reading Irina's books I feel really happy living now.
Profile Image for Elaine C..
401 reviews9 followers
January 6, 2022
This series is so truly captivating ... each novel filled to the brim with historical accounts (this one centered on the Russian Revolution of 1917-1919), mystery, intrigue, love, heartbreak and sometimes death! From the very first page I was a champion of the heroine ... and as the book progressed, I applauded the way she channeled her energy and took charge of her life!
Profile Image for Kelsey McKnight.
Author 20 books171 followers
April 18, 2019
In 2014 Quinn is settling into a routine, trying to juggle her work as an archeologist, being a mother two two children, one of whom is a newborn, being a wife, having a social life, and still using the past to investigate murders from long ago. When she's brought to a London flat, she finds it frozen in the Edwardian ages, but that's not the strangest part. There's a skeleton in a clawfoot tub, hidden behind a secret door. Now Quinn is left to use her special talents to find out who the person was, how they died, and who killed them.


In 1917 aristocratic young lady Valentina narrowly escaped Russia with her life, as being well-born was a death sentence in the Revolution. She makes it to London with her mother and younger siblings without the wealth and prestige she once enjoyed. When a relative named Dmitry offers his help, Valentina's family accepts without considering the secret cost. Who was once to be their savior soon becomes Valentina's worst nightmare as the family fights for survival in a new land.


Armed with a Fabergè egg necklace, Quinn dives into the past to solve the mystery of the body left to rot in a London flat for a hundred years. But that's not the one on her mind. The whereabouts of her long lost twin still haunt her and she's left to wonder who she will find first, the killer or her sister.


I really identified with Quinn in this book as she tried to find a balance in life with a new baby. It's nice to see a normal character who doesn't immediately fall into the role of picture perfect mom who has it all without a care. She puts in the work, as all parents do, and it was lovely to see her overcome different challenges. Although most challenges she's faced so far like a plot to murder her, the reveal of her birth family, and the fact she can see through time are some many people will ever go through. 


Valentina's story was an interesting one. When we think about the Russian Revolution, we usually think about the lost princess Anastasia and the rest of the Romanov family or the wild death of Rasputin. We don't see much about the aristocrats that managed to hop trains, flee their homes on horseback, or buy their way to a different land, dressed as a peasant. Her struggle to grieve the loss of her former life and her father and fiancé while trying to keep her remaining family afloat was something I can assume many faced when in a supposed safe place. From page one, I worried what would happen to poor Valentina. 


Shapiro did a fantastic job weaving in Russian history and facts into a thrilling drama of betrayal and loss. I suppose that shouldn't be surprising since Shapiro herself was born in Moscow. Still, many authors forgo historical facts to focus more on just the story. She does neither, perfectly pairing the past and present to create a book that doesn't sacrifice a thing.


I don't think there will ever be enough praise for this series, which is perfect for lovers of women's fiction, historical fiction, mysteries, time travel, romance, or just plain good books.
Profile Image for Reggie.
2,887 reviews
April 6, 2019
I can’t say enough how much I love and enjoy this series! The historical part is fascinating and I’m ever thankful that I was born in the late 20th century. I’m no feminist, but the injustices of centuries ago make my blood boil. In this story, archeologist, Dr. Quinn Allenby, is investigating the discovery of a skeleton in a hidden bathroom. What she sees, through the use of an inherited faberge egg necklace, is the story of a young Russian woman, who was the daughter of a Count. The time is during WW1, when civil unrest between the ‘working ppl’ and the Russian monarchy turned deadly. Young Valentina is engaged to her childhood friend and love of her life, Alexie, but the planned celebration never comes to pass. When rebels break into their house, her father is killed, as well as Alexie, who came to their aid. Valentina, her mother, sister and brother travel to London, in search of her mother’s cousin. After several months of no response, and the small family barely surviving in a hovel, cousin Demetri arrives. Surely life will be better for Valentina and her family...it does...for a while...then Valentina’s life is shattered! No spoilers but I must say that it’s gut wrenching! Meanwhile, Quinn is searching for her twin sister, while adjusting to motherhood with a kindergartner and a baby.
This is another fantastic book in the series...each one is better than the last! The narrator is perfect for this series and does a fabulous job with all of the characters. Truly another ‘unputdownable’ book.
I accepted a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
46 reviews2 followers
April 14, 2019
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading book 5 of the Echoes from the past books. Similar to the other four books in the series, once I started reading it I found it hard to put it down. It's fascinating the way these series of books drift from past to present. You get historical facts as well as suspense.

I love the way Dr Quinn is portrayed, and don't actually agree with any of the negative comments made about this character. To me it shows the normality of live. Being a professional and trying to juggle the commitments of both work and home life is difficult and as human it is hard to always be in control emotionally when faced with such challenges. I think the way the character is portrayed highlights these difficulties, for instance her after birth struggles - these are actually real issues that people face, whether you are a professional or not. I liked the fact that this was included in the story line, as well as how the issues affected her husband and the amicable way it was resolved.

The search for Quinn's sister and the fact she is missing brings to mind lots of possibilities for what could have happened and so again this heightens the drama and the suspense.

It's not easy writing these historical novels so well done Irina Shapiro!
I am actually looking forward to Book 6 and hopefully Book 7. You are one of my favourite authors ... I never get board reading your books.


Profile Image for Jan Miller.
732 reviews7 followers
August 4, 2019
The Unseen by Irina Shapiro is probably my favorite book by the the author that I have listened to so far. I love this past/present story-line. 1917 Russian Revolution has intrigued me with the stories of Anastasia. Granted this book has nothing to do with Anastasia other than the time period. I was immediately pulled into Quinn's search for her sister, the walled off bathroom with the body in the tub, and the characters from the past. It's brilliant how the author weaves things together. The imagery is this book is well done, along with the details. I loved how the author included the suffragettes into this book, and how women's rights were so limited around 1920 in London. Wendy Wolfson's performance was spectacular. She has distinguishable voices for the various characters, and I loved her Russian accents. Echoes from the Past series are all standalone books, but one really gets the full effect listening to each individual book. I highly recommend both this book and the series. I cannot wait for the next one.
4 reviews1 follower
March 27, 2019
I enjoy the premise of a woman gifted with touching objects of the dead and telling their story. I truly appreciate the way the stories go from past to present. What I am starting to dislike is the main character, Quinn. She often acts illogically, putting herself in positions that are dangerous or acting without thinking of consequences. Instead of growing as a result of experience, she seems to be degenerating in her actions and thought processes. Sometimes I forget she is a 30 year old married woman with kids because she acts like a young adult who feels no responsibility to her family.
I will continue to read the next installment, but only because I want to know the story of the historical dead person, not out of interest for the main character and her struggles. The novelty of her search for family has worn off now, and is simply "shake my head" material now.
Profile Image for Ginger.
1,163 reviews8 followers
April 8, 2019
Irina Shapiro has enthralled me with the Echoes from the Past series along with the Wendy Wolfson narrator who tells the story.
Quinn Allenby and her unique abilities to read someone’s past from an object is fascinating, each draws you in and takes you into there life, there joys, sorrows, and the tragedy or misfortune the caused Quinn to be called into the circumstance to begin with.
I also enjoy hearing about Quinn’s life while she is trying to solve a case you see the joys and the sorrows she experiences.
I was given this audible book for a fair and honest review by the author thank you.
283 reviews1 follower
May 19, 2019
I did the audio for this book.

Irina is so well prepaired and correct in her historic books. that it is a joy to listen. it takes me back in time. you feel the dilemma and the heartache in her books, when She spinns the tale of a time in history, it is like you are there.
it is you Running from a russia in caos and revolution. it is you fighting for your family. And the narration is so well performed that it gives you that extra something to feel what happens.
I love the mix in this series, where we follow our psykic in present day and a new history in a every book.
I need more books like this.
20 reviews
July 22, 2019
Very interesting!!

This series is such a delight to read. You have the storyline, which never fails to capture your attention, and imagination. But, in addition, there is always a fascinating look back in time. If you enjoy history, this series is definitely a must read!! I do have to earn you - be prepared for some late nights, because these books are difficult to put down. The characters are brought to life in such a way that you find yourself completely engrossed in their stories, their lives! Wonderful series! Not to be missed.
1,184 reviews12 followers
August 30, 2022
Two things are starting to bother me about this series. The first is Quinn's annoying habit of thinking that her thing about finding her birth family is the only thing that matters in the world at the expense of all other things. She's put her relationships and her pregnancy at risk because she just HAS TO DO IT NOW!!!!! She is awfully impatient for an historian / archeologist. You'd expect her to have a more centered view on things. The second is how much of a spoiled brat Emma is. That child hasn't hear the word no yet and it's getting really annoying.....
682 reviews10 followers
November 5, 2019
This series just gets better with each book in the series. I love how Quinn is able to get past obsticles in her own life as well. As do what she does for her work. The Narrator does an astounding job at the voices and personalities. The Author does a fantastic job at bringing to worlds into this read. I am loving this series. I would love to see it on netflix. This is a fantastic audiobook. A definite must listen.
Shauna Joesten
226 reviews4 followers
February 4, 2023
To England with love

A young aristocratic woman has her life torn apart by the Bolshevik revolution. Escaping to England with her, sister, brother and mother they accept the kindness of her mother’s wealthy cousin. But his generosity is not without cost and she must fight for her life even if it means doing the unspeakable. A fast reading story. Could not put the book down.
1,774 reviews23 followers
March 10, 2023
I am speechless. I gave up my whole day to listen to this book. I could not put it down. A skeleton is found in a bathtub in a closed off bathroom. Hidden away for years. Who is it? How did he die? Why?
The book jumps from present time to 1919 to tell this incredible story. The characters are amazing. I got so caught up in their lives. Lots of feels. Lots of entertainment.
Five stars for the narrator, too. Nice job.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
39 reviews2 followers
February 14, 2025
great series

I love this series and the strong female characters Irina Shapiro creates. As we are stepping into their lives to learn what women have advanced through I loved Katerina’s character and the bravery she showed for her family, plus of course I love Quinn and am looking forward to her finding Quentin. I highly recommend this series to anyone that loves a good history of so many unknown, uncelebrated time periods.
Profile Image for Charlene Krebs.
11 reviews
June 20, 2025
I have read a lot of Irina’s series. This book was quite different from the norm, especially bringing in a different culture. The only thing I didn’t like was the constant change of names and always giving the full name dragged down the reading. I think after introducing the characters and their cultural names, the story could have progressed using one first name only. It didn’t add anything to the historical aspect or to the storyline.
8 reviews
January 12, 2019
Another great read

I just love all of Ms Shapiros’ books.

At first I wasn’t sure about this book’s subject of Russia, which I know absolutely nothing about. I usually enjoy historic British subject matters. However, I totally enjoyed learning about Russian history. And of course the latest in life for Quinn and Gabe.

I can not wait for Book 6.
Profile Image for Kelene Youngs.
15 reviews
January 20, 2019
Good read

Fifth book in the series and they just keep getting better. Enjoy following the lives of Quinn and Gabe in the present, but the way Irina writes about historical events transports the reader into that time. The history is factual and we'll presented. The lives, as with Valentina's are written in a way that engages the reader and keeps you coming back for more.
17 reviews
July 21, 2019
Irina Shapiro’s fifth installment in the Echoes from the Past series, The Unseen is my most favorite to date. I could not put this one down and finished it one day. The storyline of both the present day and past characters touched my heart. I can not wait to know what happens in the next book.

Wendy Wolfson’s clear voice continues to bring the characters to life with clarity and ease.

Profile Image for Jhommie Kem-ing.
129 reviews2 followers
August 9, 2019
Emotional and full of bitter sweet memories. The history was superb and the amazing ability of Quinn is wonderful. To where Irina gets her story from I'm not sure but what I'm sure of is this is definitely one of a kind and really remarkable.

The narration by Wendy Wolfson was also great. Her male character narration was really good. I love the total package of everything in this novel!
2 reviews1 follower
December 19, 2019
Book 5 in the series takes place in the early 20th century. It was different in that the "skelly" wasn't of the protagonist in Quinn's view its story. I found it interesting, as always, to go back in time to a major event of history, this time the Russian Revolution, and read a story of tenacity and survival. Irina does not disappoint.
Profile Image for elizabeth turner.
183 reviews2 followers
November 14, 2021
My favourite of the series so far!

I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed this book this maybe down to my love of Russian history and therefore I understood the era but I also enjoyed the continued unfolding stories of the characters; Quinn and Gabes family, Rhys, and the intertwining developments. It's a great read and a strong book in a great series.
Profile Image for Roland Taub.
100 reviews3 followers
March 31, 2023
I really liked this one!

Spoiler alert!!!!

Warning this is the first of this series where the life buried was not the one whose eyes were telling the story. I particularly like the mixing of the past and the present stories. In fact the only reason I have stuck with this is because of the modern story. It has been by far the more interesting of the two!
33 reviews2 followers
January 16, 2019
Special series

I gave this book a 5 star, because I love this series so far. Can't wait to move onto the next one. Actually. I'M big fan of Irinas books. Love the historical aspect.
5 reviews
January 18, 2019
.

Ended rather abruptly. I knew who the victim was early and was easy to figure out who Mr. Swift was. Her son's character lacked development, tho. It is a very good story, however.
Profile Image for Kbee.
1,532 reviews4 followers
March 9, 2020
Audible Romance Package

AUDIOBOOK: Read 7 & 8 March 2020
12hrs 15min

Narrator: Wendy Wolfson still good
This series as everything in it. I really really like it.
It keeps me in as I have to know if Quinn will get to find her sister.
303 reviews2 followers
December 26, 2021
Great story....again

I love the way Shapiro tells her stories. I love the females being the hero with the changing of times. Standing up to be considered equal to men and verbal using their thoughts.
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