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The Jane Austen Insult Guide for Well-Bred Women: Serving Tea with a Side of Scorn
Jane Austen always knows just what to say!
Why waste time inventing your own insults when you can borrow topnotch snipes from a literary genius? With The Jane Austen Insult Guide for Well-Bred Women, you can clap back at bad dates, micromanaging bosses, irritating strangers, and tiresome guests while keeping your chin and pinky up, just like the queen of clever comebacks herself. Austen’s timeless retorts work just as well today as they did two hundred years
- When they start talking before “I am worn out with civility.”
- When They Haven’t asked you a single “Selfishness must always be forgiven, you know, because there is no hope of a cure.”
- When They Leave wet towels on the “I send no compliments to your mother.”
Why waste time inventing your own insults when you can borrow topnotch snipes from a literary genius? With The Jane Austen Insult Guide for Well-Bred Women, you can clap back at bad dates, micromanaging bosses, irritating strangers, and tiresome guests while keeping your chin and pinky up, just like the queen of clever comebacks herself. Austen’s timeless retorts work just as well today as they did two hundred years
- When they start talking before “I am worn out with civility.”
- When They Haven’t asked you a single “Selfishness must always be forgiven, you know, because there is no hope of a cure.”
- When They Leave wet towels on the “I send no compliments to your mother.”
160 pages, Hardcover
Published July 17, 2025
11 people are currently reading
316 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
June 30, 2025
Most excellent! No one does it like my girl Jane. We could have been friends if we'd lived in the same era. I am certain.
August 5, 2025
This was put together by a true Janeite! you don't see a lot of these quotes pop up, and they work so well! I love it!
July 20, 2025
Hilarious!
November 29, 2025
“the more i know of the world, the more i am convinced that i shall never see a man whom i can really love” she really ate w that
March 16, 2025
Omg I’m laughing so hard 🤣 This book is downright hilarious!! 😆😆 What a pocket gem! I’m sending my compliments to the author and the editors. This book is a delight! 💕😁
I really needed this. As an Austen lover this book is clever and so funny making me think how Jane probably had a sarcastic response for every situation in life 😂😂. As a long term fan of her, this book made me appreciate her more. If you want a book to gift your Austen loving friend this would be ideal! 😂
The aesthetics are cute too. And the book being small, you can take it anywhere like a pocket dictionary of sassy responses 🤣.
Thoroughly enjoyed it! I really hope other Janeites enjoy this too! 😂
Thank you to the publishers for a gifted copy. All thoughts my own.
I really needed this. As an Austen lover this book is clever and so funny making me think how Jane probably had a sarcastic response for every situation in life 😂😂. As a long term fan of her, this book made me appreciate her more. If you want a book to gift your Austen loving friend this would be ideal! 😂
The aesthetics are cute too. And the book being small, you can take it anywhere like a pocket dictionary of sassy responses 🤣.
Thoroughly enjoyed it! I really hope other Janeites enjoy this too! 😂
Thank you to the publishers for a gifted copy. All thoughts my own.
December 18, 2025
Really an excellent way to insult people in a way that sometimes leaves them questioning whether they were, in fact, insulted. The chapter on 'Insults for grating houseguests' is especially relevant with Christmas coming up!
August 19, 2025
A short collection of expertly curated Jane Austen quotes to apply in many different modern-day situations!
Jane Austen’s whit and perfect understanding of the human condition is abundantly clear, even over 200 years after the writing of her books they sentiments are still so relevant today! I Loved this, it made me laugh out loud many times!
So well edited! Loved loved loved it.
Jane Austen’s whit and perfect understanding of the human condition is abundantly clear, even over 200 years after the writing of her books they sentiments are still so relevant today! I Loved this, it made me laugh out loud many times!
So well edited! Loved loved loved it.
April 22, 2025
Didn't find it that funny.
It takes quotes from several Jane Austen books and adapts them to...wierd nowadays situations. I my opinion, they are perfect were Jane Austen imagined them, and make much more sense.
It's a book you'll read in 30 minutes or so. So don't let me spoil your fun, try it anyway.
It takes quotes from several Jane Austen books and adapts them to...wierd nowadays situations. I my opinion, they are perfect were Jane Austen imagined them, and make much more sense.
It's a book you'll read in 30 minutes or so. So don't let me spoil your fun, try it anyway.
April 27, 2025
The Jane Austen Insult Guide for Well-Bred Women is a must read for every Austen fan. I mean you've pretty much read every quote in here at some point if you've read all of the author's books, but this smart and sassy compilation of colorful comebacks depending on who you might be insulting is an absolute gem because what might be better than a handy guide on "Serving Tea with a Side of Scorn" 😂 I'll definitely be returning to it again and again and also gifting to my favorite bookish people!
Some of my favorite insults -
When they give unsolicited advice-
"I have the highest opinion in the world of your excellent judgement in all matters within the scope of your understanding..."
When they say "no" to dessert-
"Now you are talking nonsense..."
When they tell you to "go with the flow"-
"That is a degree of placidity, which I can neither comprehend nor respect."
When they think they got away with it-
"I was quiet, but I was not blind."
When you try to explain the mental load to your husband-
"If there is anything disagreeable going on, men are always sure to get out of it..."
When they say you look tired-
"Nothing ever fatigues me but doing what I do not like."
When you see their questionable political posts-
"I write only to bid you farewell. The spell is removed, I see you as you are."
Some of my favorite insults -
When they give unsolicited advice-
"I have the highest opinion in the world of your excellent judgement in all matters within the scope of your understanding..."
When they say "no" to dessert-
"Now you are talking nonsense..."
When they tell you to "go with the flow"-
"That is a degree of placidity, which I can neither comprehend nor respect."
When they think they got away with it-
"I was quiet, but I was not blind."
When you try to explain the mental load to your husband-
"If there is anything disagreeable going on, men are always sure to get out of it..."
When they say you look tired-
"Nothing ever fatigues me but doing what I do not like."
When you see their questionable political posts-
"I write only to bid you farewell. The spell is removed, I see you as you are."
July 21, 2025
It's no secret that I worship at the altar of Jane Austen, and I am by no means alone in appreciating the impressive bite of the sharp wit she displays in her writing. If you have never used a quip or two from her books are you even an Austen devotee? 😁
If you are also yearning to apply a bit of Jane Austen sass, then this is the book you need to hand! It is full of choice quotations of the fancy Austen kind for you to use as insults in place of boring old plain words - and it even has suggestions for when each biting phrase might be appropriate in a modern setting.
Some of my absolute favs are here, many from Pride and Prejudice (which in my opinion is the best Austen source material for a literary retort); absolutely loads from Emma too (a remarkably under-rated treasure trove of disparaging asides). All the insults are worthy examples of her formidable genius - and, as the blurb quite rightly states, just as effective today as they were two hundred years ago.
Celebrate #JaneAusten250 by treating yourself (or the Austen fan in your life) with this enjoyable guide to well-bred barbs, and go forth with a slice of excellent Regency era scorn... it's what Jane Austen would do!
Required reading fellow Austenites, and "Obstinate, headstrong girls'. Also lots of fun spotting who said what from among her characters. ❤
If you are also yearning to apply a bit of Jane Austen sass, then this is the book you need to hand! It is full of choice quotations of the fancy Austen kind for you to use as insults in place of boring old plain words - and it even has suggestions for when each biting phrase might be appropriate in a modern setting.
Some of my absolute favs are here, many from Pride and Prejudice (which in my opinion is the best Austen source material for a literary retort); absolutely loads from Emma too (a remarkably under-rated treasure trove of disparaging asides). All the insults are worthy examples of her formidable genius - and, as the blurb quite rightly states, just as effective today as they were two hundred years ago.
Celebrate #JaneAusten250 by treating yourself (or the Austen fan in your life) with this enjoyable guide to well-bred barbs, and go forth with a slice of excellent Regency era scorn... it's what Jane Austen would do!
Required reading fellow Austenites, and "Obstinate, headstrong girls'. Also lots of fun spotting who said what from among her characters. ❤
April 23, 2025
(4.5/5 stars)
The Jane Austen Insult Guide for Well-Bred Women by Emily Reed is a quick and fun collection of devastating comebacks.
I needed a touch of levity and this really fit the bill. I've read a bunch of Austen's works, but omg this little anthology reminded me of so many good zingers! The extended part of the title: "Serving Tea with a Side of Scorn" is such a great phrase too.
The book is structured into chapters focusing on who you might be insulting, or certain locations. Do you need clap backs for bad dates, micromanaging bosses, irritating strangers, or tiresome guests? You'll find all of those here.
I received a complimentary review copy from Castle Point Books. All opinions contained herein are my own.
If you want to see more from me, check out my blog, Bookstagram, TheStoryGraph, or Bluesky.
The Jane Austen Insult Guide for Well-Bred Women by Emily Reed is a quick and fun collection of devastating comebacks.
I needed a touch of levity and this really fit the bill. I've read a bunch of Austen's works, but omg this little anthology reminded me of so many good zingers! The extended part of the title: "Serving Tea with a Side of Scorn" is such a great phrase too.
The book is structured into chapters focusing on who you might be insulting, or certain locations. Do you need clap backs for bad dates, micromanaging bosses, irritating strangers, or tiresome guests? You'll find all of those here.
I received a complimentary review copy from Castle Point Books. All opinions contained herein are my own.
If you want to see more from me, check out my blog, Bookstagram, TheStoryGraph, or Bluesky.
November 28, 2025
This is the 250th year of Jane Austen's birth, and while I haven't re-read any of her novels yet, I have been reading works inspired by her writing and thinking about many of her characters and the social situation they lived in.
The one thing common to all those books inspired by the Austen universe is the way quotes from her novels are incorporated into the narrative. So famous are they, and so precise and cutting in their form that you recognise them even without the need for italics.
This book, therefore was a joy to read. Quotes from Austen novels are presented in modern situations, proving yet again how timeless Austen's novels are. She literally had a quote that would fit every situation from a man refusing to pick up his share of the invisible labour to that friend who posts on SM only those photographs where she looks gorgeous (even if everyone else in the group looks terrible).
The design of the book lets it down- had it been illustrated better, it would have made an ideal gift for an Austen fan and a worthy addition to every coffee table.
The one thing common to all those books inspired by the Austen universe is the way quotes from her novels are incorporated into the narrative. So famous are they, and so precise and cutting in their form that you recognise them even without the need for italics.
This book, therefore was a joy to read. Quotes from Austen novels are presented in modern situations, proving yet again how timeless Austen's novels are. She literally had a quote that would fit every situation from a man refusing to pick up his share of the invisible labour to that friend who posts on SM only those photographs where she looks gorgeous (even if everyone else in the group looks terrible).
The design of the book lets it down- had it been illustrated better, it would have made an ideal gift for an Austen fan and a worthy addition to every coffee table.
March 23, 2025
🩶💜 The Jane Austen Insult Guide for Well-Bred Women ARC Review 💜🩶
Thank you so much to Emily Reed and Castle Point Books for the opportunity to read and review this book!!
The Jane Austen Insult Guide for Well-Bred Women is a humorous compilation of witty comebacks from the works of Jane Austen. They cover all manner of insults - from irritating strangers, bad dates, annoying lovers and overbearing bosses.
This was such a fun book! I’m a huge fan of witty comebacks and this book was a delightful read! Jane Austen was a master at clever insults 200 years ago and it’s amazing to see how relevant they still can be today!
This was a super enjoyable 5 stars of entertainment! It’s definitely what it says it is - just a book of insults for various different life situations! It’s delightful!
If you’re a fan of Jane Austen and witty insults, absolutely pick this one up!
Thank you so much to Emily Reed and Castle Point Books for the opportunity to read and review this book!!
The Jane Austen Insult Guide for Well-Bred Women is a humorous compilation of witty comebacks from the works of Jane Austen. They cover all manner of insults - from irritating strangers, bad dates, annoying lovers and overbearing bosses.
This was such a fun book! I’m a huge fan of witty comebacks and this book was a delightful read! Jane Austen was a master at clever insults 200 years ago and it’s amazing to see how relevant they still can be today!
This was a super enjoyable 5 stars of entertainment! It’s definitely what it says it is - just a book of insults for various different life situations! It’s delightful!
If you’re a fan of Jane Austen and witty insults, absolutely pick this one up!
April 4, 2025
Thank you @castlepointbooks for my #gifted copy. My opinions are my own.
Just in case you thought that someone born 250 years ago could have nothing relevant to say in today's complex social interactions--you couldn't be more wrong! Jane Austen's work contains pithy asides, astute observations, and a good comeback for everything from "when your ex posts engagement pics" to "when he's love-bombing you" to "when your kid's friend is a bad influence." Jane Austen=wit! This hilarious (and giftable!) book usefully categorizes insults by a variety of social situations and/or recipients: for idiots, frenemies, family, bad dates, work, and more. Trust me, if for no other reason than to lift your spirits, you should pick this up...though if you do end up using any of them on someone, I'd absolutely love to hear about it!
Just in case you thought that someone born 250 years ago could have nothing relevant to say in today's complex social interactions--you couldn't be more wrong! Jane Austen's work contains pithy asides, astute observations, and a good comeback for everything from "when your ex posts engagement pics" to "when he's love-bombing you" to "when your kid's friend is a bad influence." Jane Austen=wit! This hilarious (and giftable!) book usefully categorizes insults by a variety of social situations and/or recipients: for idiots, frenemies, family, bad dates, work, and more. Trust me, if for no other reason than to lift your spirits, you should pick this up...though if you do end up using any of them on someone, I'd absolutely love to hear about it!
December 20, 2025
As someone who truly loves Jane Austen and all things Austen-related, I went into this book with high hopes.
The Lit Whisperer's analysis finds that while the concept held so much promise, the execution unfortunately didn't live up to expectations. For a dedicated fan, the selection feels a bit thin; I was particularly disappointed to find only four Northanger Abbey quotes when there is such a wealth of material that could have been provided. Furthermore, much of the sharp, signature irony that makes Austen’s writing so iconic felt missing in the quotes selected for this guide. It is a solid 3-star read for its aesthetic and intent, but for a true Janeite, it leaves a lot to be desired. Sad to say, I just didn't enjoy it as much as I wanted to.
Follow me for more reviews @TheLitWhisperer.
The Lit Whisperer's analysis finds that while the concept held so much promise, the execution unfortunately didn't live up to expectations. For a dedicated fan, the selection feels a bit thin; I was particularly disappointed to find only four Northanger Abbey quotes when there is such a wealth of material that could have been provided. Furthermore, much of the sharp, signature irony that makes Austen’s writing so iconic felt missing in the quotes selected for this guide. It is a solid 3-star read for its aesthetic and intent, but for a true Janeite, it leaves a lot to be desired. Sad to say, I just didn't enjoy it as much as I wanted to.
Follow me for more reviews @TheLitWhisperer.
March 19, 2025
So much fun!! This book, divided into eight sections, is both witty and hilarious. Though small, it packs a punch—perfect for any Austen fan. It’s a quick read, but one you’ll return to again and again. Packed with sharp advice and clever retorts, it offers refined yet humorous responses to all kinds of situations. Loved it!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review:)
*I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review:)
March 22, 2025
Ha! Love this book. It gives situations and then how to respond with a snarky quote from a Jane Austen book.
One of my favorites from the book is:
"WHEN THEY LEAVE WET TOWELS ON THE FLOOR:"
(Pride and Prejudice) "I send no compliments to your mother."
Mother's Day is coming and I think this would be a great little gift.
Heartfelt thanks to the publisher for the advanced copy.
One of my favorites from the book is:
"WHEN THEY LEAVE WET TOWELS ON THE FLOOR:"
(Pride and Prejudice) "I send no compliments to your mother."
Mother's Day is coming and I think this would be a great little gift.
Heartfelt thanks to the publisher for the advanced copy.
June 7, 2025
that was fun
Quotes:
WHEN YOU GO TO THE CLUB IN YOUR 30S:
"The insipidity, and yet the noise - the nothingness and yet the self-importance of all these people!"
- PRIDE AND PREJUDICE
*********
WHEN THEY SAY YOU NEED A MAN:
"What are men to rocks and mountains?"
- PRIDE AND PREJUDICE
Quotes:
WHEN YOU GO TO THE CLUB IN YOUR 30S:
"The insipidity, and yet the noise - the nothingness and yet the self-importance of all these people!"
- PRIDE AND PREJUDICE
*********
WHEN THEY SAY YOU NEED A MAN:
"What are men to rocks and mountains?"
- PRIDE AND PREJUDICE
July 31, 2025
This delightful little gem of a book is labeled as a fiction satire on Amazon, but I would absolutely use some of these quotes from various Jane Austen novels in my everyday life. I now have a strong desire to sip tea with my pinkie lifted and tastefully roast my companions. This book will make you smile and would be a fun gift for the bookworm in your life!
September 27, 2025
This is a fantastic compilation of some of the very best insults by the queen of the put downs, which are just as effective today as they were 200 years ago!
Split into handy sections for different situations including bad dates, family and just plain simple idiots, Emily has picked out some of her most witty and devastating snubs.
Split into handy sections for different situations including bad dates, family and just plain simple idiots, Emily has picked out some of her most witty and devastating snubs.
December 25, 2025
This "book" is hilarious (and I'm not even a big Jane Austen fan). It's a short collection of witty quotes with sarcastic (but fitting) categories.
If you like Jane Austen and dry/biting humour, this is the book for you!!
One note: it is very short and has little to no commentary. You can read it cover to cover in less than 30 minutes.
If you like Jane Austen and dry/biting humour, this is the book for you!!
One note: it is very short and has little to no commentary. You can read it cover to cover in less than 30 minutes.
August 13, 2025
Such an amazing little book full of quotes from Jane Austen's works! There are some quotes that definitely fit in situations of my life and others that don't. Highly enjoyable book full of quirks and quips.
November 17, 2025
This was such a fast read that I can't believe it was supposedly 160 pages long.
I guess I can see this as an amusing book on somebody's coffee table to be picked up occasionally and opened on a random page to have a quick laugh. But it's charm was a bit lost on me.
I guess I can see this as an amusing book on somebody's coffee table to be picked up occasionally and opened on a random page to have a quick laugh. But it's charm was a bit lost on me.
December 12, 2025
Since this is simply a compilation, I can't give it anymore. However, the categorisation of the quotes for every situation is pretty spot on. Gen Z slang? No. Gen Austen slang (see what I did there?).
April 22, 2025
These will be handy for work.
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May 17, 20253.5星。可以送给奥斯汀粉丝的一本书，整本书的内容是从奥斯汀的六本小说中摘录金句，在不同场景下优雅、礼貌地怼回去。比如遇到靠姿色上位的：“我就知道你的美貌总有一天能够派上用场。”😂
July 2, 2025
I detest jargon of every kind...
but this I thoroughly enjoyed!
but this I thoroughly enjoyed!
July 18, 2025
Fun concept, lackluster execution.
July 22, 2025
Hilarious! Laugh out loud funny. Fully captures Jane’s wit (and charm). Flagged a few I would like to memorize.
August 23, 2025
Fun selection of situations and quotations!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews