Author: joycesmysteryandfictionbookreviews

I love to read, recommend books and open the world of reading to others. I tutor to ensure that the next generation of readers will know the joys of a good book because their reading skills have improved. I am an avid reader, especially of mysteries and fiction. I believe that two of the world's greatest inventions were the public library and eyeglasses!

The Principles of Psychology by Shona Saul

Psychology is reportedly one of the most popular subjects that students want to study. Adults too are often fascinated by the idea of learning more about how they “tick.” This title provides a good introduction to many topics.

Some of the areas that are discussed in this title include Cognitive Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Personality Psychology and Sport Psychology. Other sections cover Neuropsychology, Social Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Health Psychology, Forensic Psychology and Occupational Psychology.

Each chapter includes illustrations, charts, photos and Of course the text. Within these sections is a very good summary of each topic. The book can be read in any order.

Highly recommended for those who want an overview or review on this topic. Remember though, that readers should not try to diagnose their own psychological disorders.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Arcturus Publishing for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 15 September 2023

I recently reviewed another title in this principles series. It was about Philosophy. I also recommend this one. AT

Now out in paperback: Lucy by the Sea

My Recommendation: Five stars

This is a beautiful novel about the hardest of times. Readers follow Lucy as she slowly comes to understand the magnitude and tragedy of the Covid epidemic. This quote brings things into focus and puts the reader firmly in Lucy’s world: Here is what I did not know that morning in March. I did not know that I would never see my apartment again. I did not know that one of my friends and a family member would die of this virus. I did not know that my relationship with my daughters would change in way I could never had anticipated. I did not know that my entire life would become something new. Strout’s writing is so effective. Like Hemingway, she knows the value of some unembellished prose. This matter of fact style makes the awfulness of Covid even more acute. Strout has written many novels. I have not read them all. However, I did recognize characters in this story from those that I had read. This, to me, adds to the sense of a universe populated by folks that I feel I know. I recommend this book about Lucy, William and those around her as they spend time in Maine. It is impactful with tragedy, relationships and the need for resilience. Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for this title. All opinions are my own.

She was Edith Wilson: the President’s Wife (Tracey Enerson Wood)

#ThePresidentsWife #NetGalley

I am a great fan of historical fiction. I find it intriguing to look into the lives of people who lived before us. Ms. Wood previously wrote a novel where she told readers about the woman who was responsible for the completion of the Brooklyn Bridge. Now, she has turned her attention to Edith Bolling Galt Wilson. The story is a fascinating and involving one that gives readers insight into the United States and President Wilson. Nowadays, Wilson has been called to task for some of his views. Here readers get to meet him, being introduced to him when he was a fifty-something year old widower and the head of the nation. All this, as WWI was looming.

As the novel opens, time has moved forward. Edith is revisiting the hotel where she spent her honeymoon. It is now the 1940s. She wonders if she could have done more, been more influential and altered history in a better way. Readers will watch as she made her decisions.

SPOILER (though many know this): Edith is well known for having been very influential in Wilson’s presidency, especially when he became ill. She took over decision making in many ways at that point.

I became very involved with the time and people in this novel. I started looking up photos, Wilson and Edith’s wedding coverage and more. Clearly, the author was able to intrigue me.

Recommended for fans of historical fiction. Anyone who read The First Ladies will most likely enjoy this one as well.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 15 August 2023