A review by nedens
The Psychology of Time Travel by Kate Mascarenhas

adventurous mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

 "The Psychology of Time Travel" by Kate Mascarenhas is a novel that presents an intriguing blend of science fiction and mystery, earning it a rating of 3.5 stars. While it diverges from my typical literary preferences, the book offers a unique perspective on the genre of time travel. Mascarenhas constructs a narrative that is as much a nod to classic murder mysteries as it is an exploration of the intricate possibilities of time travel.

One of the novel's most notable features is its all-female cast of characters. This approach evokes comparisons to works like "Hidden Figures," where women are at the forefront of scientific advancement and exploration. The story revolves around the invention of time travel and its subsequent societal and personal implications. As a time travel mystery, the book excels in weaving a complex narrative that raises compelling questions about the nature of time and causality, particularly the tantalizing and age-old question: "Can you really change the past?"

In the vein of an Agatha Christie novel, the mystery at the heart of "The Psychology of Time Travel" is intricate and engaging. Mascarenhas skillfully guides the reader through different time periods, requiring a keen attention to detail and an appreciation for the nuanced interactions between characters. This complexity is one of the book's strengths, as it challenges readers to piece together the puzzle of the narrative across various timelines.

However, the integration of LGBTQIA relationships into the story felt forced and out of sync with the broader narrative. This was more pronounced when nothing about this books advertising mentioned LGBT at all. Although political ideology has it's place in stories, the relationships here felt more like a pandering to the crowd and detracted from what would otherwise have been a solid murder mystery story.

In summary, "The Psychology of Time Travel" is a book with a fascinating premise and a strong mystery component, set against the backdrop of time travel. While it has its strengths in terms of plot complexity and the central role of its female characters, the certain thematic elements would have been better off left out. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings