Positive psychologist and author Barbara Becker Holstein has announced a temporary free ebook giveaway of her bestselling novel 'Women's Freedom, Unfinished Love Stories' alongside the upcoming release of a new film exploring marital dynamics. The dual release represents Holstein's continued commitment to using accessible media formats to address psychological themes relevant to contemporary audiences.
The novel, which will be available at no charge from January 31 through February 1, 2026, examines the experiences of three college students in the 1960s as they navigate personal desires and societal expectations. Holstein uses their stories to highlight universal challenges faced by women across generations, encouraging readers to reflect on their own rights, needs, and the social influences shaping their lives. The book ultimately argues that fair treatment and understanding are foundational to self-discovery and emotional growth.
Simultaneously, Holstein has announced the early 2026 release of her new film 'I Had an Affair with My Husband,' which explores how fantasy and romance can revitalize long-term relationships. Based on personal experiences she and her psychologist husband documented, the film follows a married couple who discover renewed pleasure in their marriage by adopting alternate personas. The project features actors Justin L. Wilson and Jessica Miano Kruel portraying both the positive and challenging aspects of introducing playful elements into established relationships.
Holstein explains that the film demonstrates how fantasy, romance, and play can be crucial components of lasting marriages, though she notes such practices require careful navigation to avoid negative consequences. The film aims to entertain while prompting viewers to consider how they might introduce similar elements into their own relationships to combat stagnation.
These releases continue Holstein's established pattern of wrapping Positive Psychology concepts in engaging media formats. Her previous work includes six bestselling books, four self-esteem workbooks for girls, award-winning films, podcasts, and stage plays. Her most recent workbook, 'Secrets,' achieved bestseller status in the 'Teen & Young Adult Nonfiction on Depression' category, while her book 'Conflict and a Bit of Magic' helps children build self-esteem through identifying with a fictional girl's journal.
Holstein's innovative approaches extend to digital platforms through projects like The Selfie Showcase, which allows young people ages 13 to 18 to create selfie videos expressing concerns about issues affecting their lives. This initiative, which emerged from The Selfie Project, provides a platform for youth to candidly discuss anxiety, stress, and potential solutions. More information about The Selfie Showcase is available at http://www.selfiefilmmakers.com, where participants can upload their videos.
Holstein's broader body of work, including her positive psychology method called The Enchanted Self, is accessible through her primary website at http://www.enchantedself.com. Her presentations, including recent content addressing pandemic-related issues, are available on YouTube, Vimeo, and through her Roku channel titled 'The Enchanted Self Presents.'
These simultaneous releases are significant because they make psychological insights accessible through popular media formats during a period when many individuals are reevaluating relationships and personal fulfillment. The free ebook offer removes financial barriers to content exploring women's historical struggles, while the film provides a tangible example of how psychological principles can be applied to improve intimate relationships. Together, they demonstrate how psychological expertise can be translated into practical resources for general audiences seeking personal growth and stronger connections.
