Step into the captivating world of Echoes from the Past, where history whispers secrets and love defies time! Irina Shapiro’s beloved series blends cozy mystery with paranormal romance, following Dr. Quinn Allenby, an archaeologist with a psychic gift that lets her peer into the lives of the long-deceased. Perfect for fans of historical intrigue and heart-tugging romance, this series sweeps readers across centuries with its rich storytelling and emotional depth.
From 17th-century London to Revolutionary Russia, Echoes from the Past offers a unique journey through time, unraveling mysteries buried in skeletal remains and forgotten artifacts. With its mix of suspense, romance, and historical detail, the series has carved a special niche for readers craving stories that linger long after the final page.
How Echoes from the Past Began
Born in Moscow and raised in the U.S., Irina Shapiro always dreamed of unearthing history’s secrets, inspired by her childhood love for Gothic novels and historical romance. After a career in business, she turned to writing in 2007, channeling her passion for history and the paranormal into fiction. Echoes from the Past, launched in 2017 with The Lovers, was born from Shapiro’s fascination with archaeology and the idea of a psychic archaeologist who could ‘see’ the past through objects, blending her favorite genres into a fresh, compelling narrative.
The Heart of Echoes from the Past
The series spans eight books, each weaving dual timelines that connect modern-day mysteries with historical dramas. In The Lovers (2017), Dr. Quinn Allenby investigates a 17th-century couple’s tragic fate, uncovering Elise de Lesseps’ heartbreaking marriage to a cruel lord. The Forgotten (2018) delves into medieval England, exploring a mother and child’s mysterious deaths, while The Unseen (2018) tackles a Russian Revolution-era skeleton hidden in a bathtub. The Broken (2019), the series finale, ties up Quinn’s personal and professional arcs with a poignant thalidomide scandal backdrop.
Shapiro’s storytelling shines through her meticulous historical research and vivid characters. Themes of love, betrayal, and resilience resonate across eras, with Quinn’s psychic visions offering intimate glimpses into past lives. The series’ cozy mystery vibe, paired with paranormal elements, creates a warm yet thrilling tone, while settings like plague-ridden London or wartime Cornwall immerse readers in history’s raw beauty and brutality.
Readers praise the series for its emotional depth and seamless blending of genres. Quinn’s personal journey—navigating love, family secrets, and her own origins—mirrors the historical figures she investigates, adding a relatable layer to the supernatural premise. Fans of authors like Susanna Kearsley will find Echoes from the Past a delightful escape into the past.
Why Echoes from the Past Resonates
Echoes from the Past has enchanted a dedicated fanbase with its unique fusion of historical fiction, mystery, and romance. Its appeal lies in Shapiro’s ability to humanize history, making long-gone eras feel vivid and relevant. Readers on platforms like Goodreads and Amazon rave about the series’ addictive quality, with many finishing books like The Broken in days, hooked by the intricate plots and Quinn’s compelling arc.
The series also stands out for empowering female protagonists, from Quinn’s modern-day resilience to the historical women fighting societal constraints. Its niche blend of genres has sparked discussions in romance and historical fiction communities, cementing its status as a hidden gem for readers seeking something beyond mainstream bestsellers.
- First book: The Lovers (2017)
- Total books: 8
- Latest book: The Broken (2019)
- Genres: Cozy mystery, paranormal romance, historical fiction
Grab The Lovers and dive into Echoes from the Past’s spellbinding world of mystery and romance! Whether you’re a history buff or a hopeless romantic, Dr. Quinn Allenby’s adventures will keep you turning pages late into the night.