Step into the enchanting world of the Hands of Time series, where an ancient watch whisks you from modern-day woes to the vibrant, perilous 17th century! Irina Shapiro’s beloved saga blends science fiction, historical fiction, and romance, following sisters Valerie and Louisa Crane as they navigate love, survival, and family bonds across time. This immersive escape captivates with its rich historical detail and heart-tugging drama, perfect for fans of Diana Gabaldon or Susanna Kearsley.
With a magical premise and characters who feel like old friends, Hands of Time invites readers to explore a past where every choice could rewrite the future. Ready to lose yourself in a story where love transcends centuries? Let’s dive in!
How Hands of Time Began
Born from Irina Shapiro’s lifelong dream of writing, the Hands of Time series emerged when she finally embraced her storytelling passion after years in business and motherhood. Inspired by her fascination with the paranormal and history, Shapiro crafted a tale where time travel isn’t just a plot device but a bridge for emotional and romantic journeys. Her debut novel, The Hands of Time, published in 2011, sparked a series that now spans nine books, fueled by her knack for weaving historical authenticity with fantastical twists.
Shapiro’s Moscow roots and love for travel infuse her work with vivid settings, from quaint English villages to colonial Virginia. Her ability to make the past feel alive has won her a dedicated fanbase, eager for each new release.
The Heart of Hands of Time
The series kicks off with The Hands of Time, where Valerie Crane, reeling from divorce, is transported from 2010 to 1605 England via a mysterious clock. She grapples with love and danger, caught between two brothers at Yealm Castle. A Leap of Faith follows her sister Louisa, who risks everything to join Valerie in the past, deepening the family saga. A World Apart sees the sisters in colonial Virginia, facing new challenges, while Shattered Moments ties up loose ends with war and betrayal.
At its core, the series explores themes of love’s endurance, adaptation to unfamiliar worlds, and the unbreakable bonds of family. Shapiro’s lush prose paints 17th-century England and Virginia with meticulous detail, blending historical events like the Guy Fawkes plot with fictional drama. The romance is plush, sometimes steamy, appealing to readers who crave emotional depth alongside time-travel thrills. Yet, the series isn’t without flaws—some critique its predictable plots or modern dialogue—but its charm lies in its heartfelt characters and escapist joy.
Why Hands of Time Resonates
Hands of Time has carved a niche among time-travel romance fans, offering a cozy yet thrilling blend of history and heart. Its cult following praises Shapiro’s ability to make centuries-old settings feel intimate, with characters who face universal struggles—love, loss, and belonging. The series’ rebranding by Storm Publishing in 2024 signals its enduring appeal, with potential for film or TV adaptations sparking excitement.
Despite mixed reviews on literary finesse, the series’ emotional pull and binge-worthy pacing keep readers hooked. It’s a testament to Shapiro’s skill at crafting stories that feel like a warm hug, even amid historical turmoil. For those seeking a lighter, romantic spin on time travel, Hands of Time delivers.
- First published: 2011
- Number of books: 9
- Genres: Time-travel romance, historical fiction, science fiction
- Publisher: Storm Publishing (rebranded 2024)
Grab The Hands of Time and dive into a world where love defies the boundaries of time! Whether you’re a history buff or a hopeless romantic, Irina Shapiro’s series promises an unforgettable adventure.