What do you think?
Rate this book
Praying with Jane: 31 Days through the Prayers of Jane Austen
The charm of Jane Austen and her novels has been enjoyed for over 200 years by readers around the world. Much has been written about her fascinating life, yet little is known about Jane's spiritual side. In this lovely 31-day devotional, you will get an in-depth look at Miss Austen's vibrant, steadfast prayer and faith life. Her intimate relationship with the Father comes to life through her exquisite prayers, touching biographical anecdotes, intimate excerpts from family letters and memoirs, and illuminating scenes from her novels.
Spiritual insights and Scripture references shed light on the profound meaning behind Miss Austen's prayers and the enduring truths they contain. Each day ends with a key Bible verse and invitation to "pray with Jane," helping to ignite and deepen your own vibrant relationship with the Father.
Spiritual insights and Scripture references shed light on the profound meaning behind Miss Austen's prayers and the enduring truths they contain. Each day ends with a key Bible verse and invitation to "pray with Jane," helping to ignite and deepen your own vibrant relationship with the Father.
160 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2018
83 people are currently reading
430 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Dodge
17 books178 followersRachel Dodge is the bestselling author of the award-winning Anne of Green Gables Devotional, The Little Women Devotional, and Praying with Jane: 31 Days Through the Prayers of Jane Austen. Rachel's newest book is The Secret Garden Devotional! Rachel teaches college English classes, gives talks at libraries, teas, and book clubs, and is a writer for the popular Jane Austen's World blog. She is passionate about encouraging and equipping women to grow closer to Jesus through prayer and the study of God's Word. A true kindred spirit at heart, Rachel enjoys books, bonnets, and ball gowns.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
October 20, 2018
For those who admire Jane Austen's literary works and take it further to admire the lady writer behind them, this slim guided-prayer devotional volume that parses out three recorded prayers of Jane Austen has vast appeal.
In Praying with Jane, the author provides an introduction to Jane Austen's religious background and how this volume should be best employed. Austen's prayers themselves are echoes of prayer patterns found in the Church of England's Book of Common Prayer and fell right in line with a Regency era clergyman's daughter's prayer life. They are beautiful, articulate, and thought-provoking like much of Austen's writing. The prayers' elements included: thanksgiving, confession, petition, and intercession.
Praying With Jane has three sections because there are three prayers of Austen that her sister Cassandra preserved for posterity. The author breaks down each prayer into ten-day increments. These day sections are brief and can be as short as five to ten minutes if the reader is rushed for time.
The author quotes the portion of the prayer that the day's section covers, then a parallel thought from Jane's or the lives of characters from her novels and then further ties this to a Biblical concept or character study. There are scripture references included for further reflection or to reinforce the point of the section. Next, there is an invitation to pray regarding the aspect of Jane's prayer introduced for that day with a guide for the reader's prayerful thoughts.
In the end, there is a followup epilogue, notes, and bibliography.
While this is assuredly a book to which all are welcome to pick up, I think it is most definitely aimed at Christian readers or those who are open to learning more about the tenets of Christianity through Christian topics, Bible verses, and prayer. It also is for those who enjoy themed guided prayer devotionals.
Prayer is the primary focus, but as a lover of all things Jane Austen, I was thrilled to delve into the religious aspect of her life. I had, as far as I know, never read through any of Jane Austen's prayers nor had any idea they were preserved after her death. I enjoyed that the author did the work of studying out Austen's prayers, her family and religious background. It is clear the author is familiar with Austen's life and novels. I enjoyed seeing her use scenes and characters from the novels to help reinforce that day's thoughts on Austen's prayer or even better point out echoes of terms or phrases from her novels. When she mentions 'pride and folly' my mind definitely leaped to her most famous work and when she beseeches God to protect friends and family from danger away and at home, I felt her anguish that her sailor brothers would be safe while away fighting a war.
On a side note, the presentation of this volume was well done from cover, to formatting, and to print choices. It is a treasure and collectible to grace the shelf or table as a personal purchase or a gift.
All in all, I found Praying With Jane to be interesting for the topic, thought-provoking and uplifting in the teaching aspect. I appreciated the challenge to consider my motives toward others, to be generous and giving, and to do a daily end of the day inspection of my behavior for the purpose of doing better in future. I can recommend it to those looking for a guided prayer devotional and/or those who wish to know something of Austen's prayers and the Christian religion.
My thanks to Bethany House Publishers for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
In Praying with Jane, the author provides an introduction to Jane Austen's religious background and how this volume should be best employed. Austen's prayers themselves are echoes of prayer patterns found in the Church of England's Book of Common Prayer and fell right in line with a Regency era clergyman's daughter's prayer life. They are beautiful, articulate, and thought-provoking like much of Austen's writing. The prayers' elements included: thanksgiving, confession, petition, and intercession.
Praying With Jane has three sections because there are three prayers of Austen that her sister Cassandra preserved for posterity. The author breaks down each prayer into ten-day increments. These day sections are brief and can be as short as five to ten minutes if the reader is rushed for time.
The author quotes the portion of the prayer that the day's section covers, then a parallel thought from Jane's or the lives of characters from her novels and then further ties this to a Biblical concept or character study. There are scripture references included for further reflection or to reinforce the point of the section. Next, there is an invitation to pray regarding the aspect of Jane's prayer introduced for that day with a guide for the reader's prayerful thoughts.
In the end, there is a followup epilogue, notes, and bibliography.
While this is assuredly a book to which all are welcome to pick up, I think it is most definitely aimed at Christian readers or those who are open to learning more about the tenets of Christianity through Christian topics, Bible verses, and prayer. It also is for those who enjoy themed guided prayer devotionals.
Prayer is the primary focus, but as a lover of all things Jane Austen, I was thrilled to delve into the religious aspect of her life. I had, as far as I know, never read through any of Jane Austen's prayers nor had any idea they were preserved after her death. I enjoyed that the author did the work of studying out Austen's prayers, her family and religious background. It is clear the author is familiar with Austen's life and novels. I enjoyed seeing her use scenes and characters from the novels to help reinforce that day's thoughts on Austen's prayer or even better point out echoes of terms or phrases from her novels. When she mentions 'pride and folly' my mind definitely leaped to her most famous work and when she beseeches God to protect friends and family from danger away and at home, I felt her anguish that her sailor brothers would be safe while away fighting a war.
On a side note, the presentation of this volume was well done from cover, to formatting, and to print choices. It is a treasure and collectible to grace the shelf or table as a personal purchase or a gift.
All in all, I found Praying With Jane to be interesting for the topic, thought-provoking and uplifting in the teaching aspect. I appreciated the challenge to consider my motives toward others, to be generous and giving, and to do a daily end of the day inspection of my behavior for the purpose of doing better in future. I can recommend it to those looking for a guided prayer devotional and/or those who wish to know something of Austen's prayers and the Christian religion.
My thanks to Bethany House Publishers for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 12, 2023
Three prayers written by Jane Austen survive. In this handsomely produced little volume, Rachel Dodge prints them in full and then weaves a devotional around them, jumping off from snippets quoted from each to reflect on connections to Austen’s life and works, the Christian context of the text, and ways to use the prayers for personal prayer and contemplation.
I am not the ideal audience for such a book, but I found it sufficiently interesting and even enlightening. My personal preference would have been for more on Austen and less on personal reflection, but that’s not the book the author was writing.
I was interested in Jane Austen’s prayers because I believe that as a writer of novels she was first and foremost a moralist. The wit and the romance in her books are the sugar that makes the spoonful go down smoothly. What, then, can these three short prayers tell us about Austen’s own character and her works? Quite a lot, I think.
Several preoccupations recur in the text of the prayers, notably the desire to walk humbly and to show kindness and consideration for others. These virtues—and their opposites, selfishness, pride, and vanity—lie at the heart of all her writing. Hers was a narrow, relatively unvarying society in which people had to find ways to get along with those around them—a modern equivalent might be a small office where you hold a job you can’t quit. It was moreover a society with clear rules of conduct and limited scope for self-expression.
In such a world the foundational sin is selfishness; it is the wellspring of all other sins and vices. So it is not surprising to find Austen begging to “bring to our knowledge every fault of Temper and every evil Habit in which we may have indulged to the discomfort of our fellow-creatures.” She adds, “Save us from deceiving ourselves by Pride or Vanity.” These themes are repeated when she prays for patience and forbearance and to think humbly of herself, “to be severe only in the examination of our own conduct.” It is easy to imagine how a person as brilliant as Jane Austen might feel the need to caution herself in this way; she did not by nature suffer fools gladly.
A weakness in this book is Dodge’s uncritical acceptance of the version of Austen’s character promoted by her family in the nineteenth century—the kindly aunt, ever-patient with children, leading a retired life of domestic happiness and devotion to God. The reality is that Jane Austen was not just more sophisticated but also fiercer than that and more ambitious, and her sister ran interference for her to allow her to pursue her ambitions. I would have liked to see more attention devoted to the darker sides of her nature, the struggle she faced in attempting to live up to the aspirations in these prayers. She wouldn’t have had to pray so hard for these virtues if she possessed them naturally.
But I am grateful for this little volume which makes these prayers accessible, and for the very thoughtful and pretty design of the book. Readers more pious than I would find it a more enriching experience as they walk through Dodge’s take on Austen’s spiritual landscape.
I am not the ideal audience for such a book, but I found it sufficiently interesting and even enlightening. My personal preference would have been for more on Austen and less on personal reflection, but that’s not the book the author was writing.
I was interested in Jane Austen’s prayers because I believe that as a writer of novels she was first and foremost a moralist. The wit and the romance in her books are the sugar that makes the spoonful go down smoothly. What, then, can these three short prayers tell us about Austen’s own character and her works? Quite a lot, I think.
Several preoccupations recur in the text of the prayers, notably the desire to walk humbly and to show kindness and consideration for others. These virtues—and their opposites, selfishness, pride, and vanity—lie at the heart of all her writing. Hers was a narrow, relatively unvarying society in which people had to find ways to get along with those around them—a modern equivalent might be a small office where you hold a job you can’t quit. It was moreover a society with clear rules of conduct and limited scope for self-expression.
In such a world the foundational sin is selfishness; it is the wellspring of all other sins and vices. So it is not surprising to find Austen begging to “bring to our knowledge every fault of Temper and every evil Habit in which we may have indulged to the discomfort of our fellow-creatures.” She adds, “Save us from deceiving ourselves by Pride or Vanity.” These themes are repeated when she prays for patience and forbearance and to think humbly of herself, “to be severe only in the examination of our own conduct.” It is easy to imagine how a person as brilliant as Jane Austen might feel the need to caution herself in this way; she did not by nature suffer fools gladly.
A weakness in this book is Dodge’s uncritical acceptance of the version of Austen’s character promoted by her family in the nineteenth century—the kindly aunt, ever-patient with children, leading a retired life of domestic happiness and devotion to God. The reality is that Jane Austen was not just more sophisticated but also fiercer than that and more ambitious, and her sister ran interference for her to allow her to pursue her ambitions. I would have liked to see more attention devoted to the darker sides of her nature, the struggle she faced in attempting to live up to the aspirations in these prayers. She wouldn’t have had to pray so hard for these virtues if she possessed them naturally.
But I am grateful for this little volume which makes these prayers accessible, and for the very thoughtful and pretty design of the book. Readers more pious than I would find it a more enriching experience as they walk through Dodge’s take on Austen’s spiritual landscape.
November 2, 2018
This is a beautiful 31 day devotional through the 3 surviving prayers of Jane Austen. It’s perfect for Austen fans and anyone looking for direction into a more meaningful prayer life.
June 17, 2020
I loved this! ❤️
July 29, 2023
I don't usually enjoy devotionals, but this one was simply beautiful. It has spurred my heart toward prayer, and since July is my birthday month and the month Austen died (and when we celebrate "Jane Austen July"), so I've decided to make it an annual read. I can't wait for next year to go through it again with my new Jane Austen Journal that I made this month.
Dodge points out the beautiful way Austen weaves Scripture and bits of the Book of Common Prayer (mostly Scripture for content and BCP for form) into her prayers AND her life. Using illustrations from her life, her letters and her novels, we see how Austen lived the faith she possessed.
Dodge points out the beautiful way Austen weaves Scripture and bits of the Book of Common Prayer (mostly Scripture for content and BCP for form) into her prayers AND her life. Using illustrations from her life, her letters and her novels, we see how Austen lived the faith she possessed.
December 5, 2019
I enjoyed this devotional so much! I loved the way it took me through three prayers that Jane Austen wrote.
Each prayer was included in its entirety and was then broken up into smaller sections for a more detailed study on each day. Included in each day’s study was some interesting tidbit about Jane’s life or a connection to the characters and books that she wrote.
I loved the way the author took these passages from Jane’s prayers, connected them with a Biblical truth, and encouraged me to think of how these passages related to my life.
This is my new favorite devotional book and I plan to incorporate reading through it at least twice a year in addition to my regular Bible study.
I received a complimentary copy of this book .All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Each prayer was included in its entirety and was then broken up into smaller sections for a more detailed study on each day. Included in each day’s study was some interesting tidbit about Jane’s life or a connection to the characters and books that she wrote.
I loved the way the author took these passages from Jane’s prayers, connected them with a Biblical truth, and encouraged me to think of how these passages related to my life.
This is my new favorite devotional book and I plan to incorporate reading through it at least twice a year in addition to my regular Bible study.
I received a complimentary copy of this book .All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
May 21, 2019
I read this book on the recommendation of a friend and I am so glad that I did. There were a couple of moments when the author really had to stretch to make an connection with Austen's work in the context of her written prayers but that would be my only "complaint". The prayers are beautiful and the challenges offered up by Rachel Dodge for us to apply to our own prayers really made me think. I marked and annotated the book quite a bit, but below are a few quotes that really struck me.
"Jesus calls out to you today with kind words, "Marth, Martha." Can you hear him? His voice is soft and gentle. He invites you to set everything down and come sit with him. We often feel 'anxious and troubled about many things,' but when we spend time with Jesus, everything else falls into place."
"Some people can't fathom God's love because no one has ever shown them real, giving, sacrificial love."
"Many of us try to fit God into our lives, instead of making God the centerpiece of our lives."
"Jesus himself had a rhythm to his day and often rose early to 'withdraw' form the pressing crowds - and indeed his own disciples - in order to pray. The word withdraw means to 'retire quietly' or 'go aside'. The foundational habit of Jesus' life was prayer; at the start of the day, throughout the day, for the people around him, and before making any decisions."
"May the comforts of every day, be thankfully felt by us, may they prompt a willing obedience of they Commandments & a benevolent spirit toward every fellow-creature."-Jane Austen prayer
"There are times when the ache of loss is great, all we can do is sit on the train of Jesus' robe and weep."
"God gives us new opportunities each day to 'rise again with every serious & religious feeling which now directs us.' As we seek God's face, immerse ourselves in his Word, and pray at his feet, healing comes. Gentle showers come to refresh us. The sun breaks over the tops of the mountains. God's tender mercies come, and we begin again."
"Jesus calls out to you today with kind words, "Marth, Martha." Can you hear him? His voice is soft and gentle. He invites you to set everything down and come sit with him. We often feel 'anxious and troubled about many things,' but when we spend time with Jesus, everything else falls into place."
"Some people can't fathom God's love because no one has ever shown them real, giving, sacrificial love."
"Many of us try to fit God into our lives, instead of making God the centerpiece of our lives."
"Jesus himself had a rhythm to his day and often rose early to 'withdraw' form the pressing crowds - and indeed his own disciples - in order to pray. The word withdraw means to 'retire quietly' or 'go aside'. The foundational habit of Jesus' life was prayer; at the start of the day, throughout the day, for the people around him, and before making any decisions."
"May the comforts of every day, be thankfully felt by us, may they prompt a willing obedience of they Commandments & a benevolent spirit toward every fellow-creature."-Jane Austen prayer
"There are times when the ache of loss is great, all we can do is sit on the train of Jesus' robe and weep."
"God gives us new opportunities each day to 'rise again with every serious & religious feeling which now directs us.' As we seek God's face, immerse ourselves in his Word, and pray at his feet, healing comes. Gentle showers come to refresh us. The sun breaks over the tops of the mountains. God's tender mercies come, and we begin again."
December 5, 2019
Part devotional and part biography, Praying with Jane gives readers a peek into Jane Austen’s personal and spiritual life. As a Janeite, I thoroughly enjoyed this look into Austen’s relationships with God and her family.
Rachel Dodge takes three of Austen’s prayers and breaks them down for closer reflection and study over the course of thirty-one days. Each short devotional includes practical application, scripture, an invitation to prayer, and an actual prayer.
This beautiful little book is the perfect gift for the Austen fan in your life or for those looking for a short devotional to either start their day or supplement their Bible study.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Rachel Dodge takes three of Austen’s prayers and breaks them down for closer reflection and study over the course of thirty-one days. Each short devotional includes practical application, scripture, an invitation to prayer, and an actual prayer.
This beautiful little book is the perfect gift for the Austen fan in your life or for those looking for a short devotional to either start their day or supplement their Bible study.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
May 27, 2019
A lovely devotional for Jane fans, beautifully executed and designed. 5 of 5 Stars. Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine. Pub Date 02 Oct 2018. #PrayingWithJane #NetGalley
August 22, 2018
From the introduction: Jane Austen is known for the beauty and romance of her words.
Premise/plot: This devotional is built around three written prayers of Jane Austen. Dodge breaks down each prayer into bite-size pieces providing ten days of devotional readings per prayer. The thirty-first devotional focuses on The Lord's Prayer.
Within each devotional, Dodge provides biographical information on Austen, commentary or insight from Austen's other works (her letters, her novels, etc.), and a glimmer of theological truth. Each devotional invites readers into a relationship with Jesus Christ and offers a model prayer.
My thoughts: I will be the first to admit that I can be harsh when it comes to devotional books. Unlike many I look for substantive meat, complex theology that engages the mind and inspires the heart but that also isn't afraid of convicting or rebuking. I look for devotions that have you diving and diving deep into Scripture and not devotions that merely have you dipping your toes in the water. I come looking for a side dish to a hearty meal and not a breath mint. Many devotionals fall short of this biased standard of mine.
Many devotionals include the tiniest nugget of Scripture and a lot of stories. These stories can either be biographical and personal--testimonies of what God has done for the writer--or fictional illustrations of a theology lived out in the real world.
Praying with Jane relies more on observations from Jane's life--her biography--and her novels than it does on Scripture. Readers do get glimpses and glimmers of Scripture and Scriptural truths. And many--if not all--devotions do lead to the gospel and an invitation to readers to enter into a relationship with Jesus.
Praying with Jane would be a great fit for those who love, love, love Jane Austen, for those who have spent hours, days, weeks, months, years, even decades immersed in her novels. There is nothing wrong with being immersed in her novels and adoring film adaptations of her novels.
I did love the three prayers by Austen. If Austen had written a 365 day devotional book of prayers I would read it every year.
Premise/plot: This devotional is built around three written prayers of Jane Austen. Dodge breaks down each prayer into bite-size pieces providing ten days of devotional readings per prayer. The thirty-first devotional focuses on The Lord's Prayer.
Within each devotional, Dodge provides biographical information on Austen, commentary or insight from Austen's other works (her letters, her novels, etc.), and a glimmer of theological truth. Each devotional invites readers into a relationship with Jesus Christ and offers a model prayer.
My thoughts: I will be the first to admit that I can be harsh when it comes to devotional books. Unlike many I look for substantive meat, complex theology that engages the mind and inspires the heart but that also isn't afraid of convicting or rebuking. I look for devotions that have you diving and diving deep into Scripture and not devotions that merely have you dipping your toes in the water. I come looking for a side dish to a hearty meal and not a breath mint. Many devotionals fall short of this biased standard of mine.
Many devotionals include the tiniest nugget of Scripture and a lot of stories. These stories can either be biographical and personal--testimonies of what God has done for the writer--or fictional illustrations of a theology lived out in the real world.
Praying with Jane relies more on observations from Jane's life--her biography--and her novels than it does on Scripture. Readers do get glimpses and glimmers of Scripture and Scriptural truths. And many--if not all--devotions do lead to the gospel and an invitation to readers to enter into a relationship with Jesus.
Praying with Jane would be a great fit for those who love, love, love Jane Austen, for those who have spent hours, days, weeks, months, years, even decades immersed in her novels. There is nothing wrong with being immersed in her novels and adoring film adaptations of her novels.
I did love the three prayers by Austen. If Austen had written a 365 day devotional book of prayers I would read it every year.
Give us grace, Almighty Father, so to pray as to deserve to be heard, to address thee with our Hearts, as with our Lips. ~ Jane Austen
Above all other blessings Oh! God, for ourselves & our fellow-creatures we implore Thee to quicken our sense of they Mercy in the redemption of the World, of the Value of that Holy Religion in which we have been brought up, that we may not, by our own Neglect, throw away the Salvation Thou hast given us, nor be Christians only in name. ~ Jane Austen
When we think of a Jane Austen heroine in need of sincere repentance, Emma Woodhouse comes to mind. ~ Rachel Dodge
Jane's prayer points to an inescapable truth: pride and vanity lead us astray because they cause blindness. It happened in the Garden of Eden; it happens daily to each of us. ~ Rachel Dodge
Pardon Oh God! whatever thou has seen amiss in us & give us a stronger desire of resisting every evil inclination & weakening every habit of sin. ~ Jane Austen
Pardon Oh God! the offenses of the past day. We are conscious of many frailties; we remember with shame & contrition, many evil Thoughts & neglected duties, & we have perhaps sinned against Thee & against our fellow-creatures in many instances of which we have now no remembrance. ~ Jane Austen
Father of Heaven! whose goodness has brought us in safety to the close of this day, dispose our Hearts in fervent prayer. ~ Jane Austen
Another day is now gone, & added to those, for which we were before accountable. Teach us Almighty Father, to consider this solemn Truth as we should do, that we may feel the importance of every day, & every hour as it passes, & earnestly strive to make a better use of what Thy Goodness may yet bestow on us, than we have done of the Time past. ~ Jane Austen
Incline us Oh God! to think humbly of ourselves, to be severe only in the examination of our own conduct, to consider our fellow-creatures with kindness, & to judge of all they say & do with that Charity which we would desire from Men ourselves. ~ Jane Austen
May thy mercy be extended over all Mankind, bringing the Ignorant to the knowledge of they Truth, awakening the Impenitent, touching the Hardened. ~ Jane Austen
Do you want to know the same "Almighty Father" Jane Austen knew and loved? Do you want to be set free from sin, forgiven, redeemed, and made new? Do you want to know Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior? You can do that today. ~ Rachel Dodge
Read
December 17, 2018Looking for a special gift book? Whether to gift yourself or another, if you love Jane Austen, Praying With Jane offers that unique gift.
An opportunity to spend thirty one days of prayer and spiritual reflection with the much loved and renowned, Jane Austen. Not the usual contemporary slant of fan fiction or austenesque, we are treated to a look at the interior life of this honoured author. The strength of her spiritual perspectives. The stability of her faith. The sustenance of her prayer life. And, the resonating beauty that results.
The acknowledged qualities of her writing are equally expressed throughout her prayers, deepening our own reflections. Insights into use of the prayer book and Jane Austen's own recorded prayers reflects on the impact of prayer in her own and family life. An excellent reference and guide to the spiritual influences of Jane Austen's life.
Family letters and memoirs, personal anecdotes, recounting of scenes from her novels, all provide a personalized backdrop increasing our appreciation of this woman's faith and spiritual life.
Highly recommended. Whether for yourself or another!
An opportunity to spend thirty one days of prayer and spiritual reflection with the much loved and renowned, Jane Austen. Not the usual contemporary slant of fan fiction or austenesque, we are treated to a look at the interior life of this honoured author. The strength of her spiritual perspectives. The stability of her faith. The sustenance of her prayer life. And, the resonating beauty that results.
The acknowledged qualities of her writing are equally expressed throughout her prayers, deepening our own reflections. Insights into use of the prayer book and Jane Austen's own recorded prayers reflects on the impact of prayer in her own and family life. An excellent reference and guide to the spiritual influences of Jane Austen's life.
Family letters and memoirs, personal anecdotes, recounting of scenes from her novels, all provide a personalized backdrop increasing our appreciation of this woman's faith and spiritual life.
Highly recommended. Whether for yourself or another!
October 14, 2020
Highly recommend! This is a great daily devotional. Jane was a truly amazing and faith filled woman.
March 14, 2022
A sweet little devotional filled with Jane Austen's prayers and scripture.
July 31, 2025
Rachel Dodge does such a great job of breaking down the beautiful prayers of Jane Austen in a way that helps us to fully realize the depths of her prayers and her faith. I love that she further ties it in with example of Scripture, Austen's personal life, and her literary works. The way that she then prompts us to apply it to our own lives and even provides an example prayer for us to pray is wonderful! There are 31 5-minute (at most) devotions, which works out perfectly for reading it during Jane Austen July.
September 12, 2018
Praying with Jane 31 Days through the Prayers of Jane Austen by Rachel Dodge is a new book by Bethany House released this October 4.
160 pages, if you are a fan of Jane Austen, beloved author of masterpieces like Emma, Sense and Sensibility, you will be thrilled to reflect thanks to these three prayers written directly by Jane Austen to God; each of them, verse after verse explained in a modernized vision, starting with a meditation, some anecdotes of Jane Austen's life, an invitation to pray and then a prayer. Jane's father George was an Anglican clergyman and the family took pretty seriously prayers during the various moments of the day as also happened everywhere in the past, with many prayers and long moments dedicated to God.
I found this book original and very well done and I think that it is a good gift for all Jane Austen's passionate avid readers and estimators but also for all the other people who wants to pray accompanied by the gentle touch and nature by Austen.
Highly recommended.
I thank NetGalley and Bethany House for this eBook.
Anna Maria Polidori
160 pages, if you are a fan of Jane Austen, beloved author of masterpieces like Emma, Sense and Sensibility, you will be thrilled to reflect thanks to these three prayers written directly by Jane Austen to God; each of them, verse after verse explained in a modernized vision, starting with a meditation, some anecdotes of Jane Austen's life, an invitation to pray and then a prayer. Jane's father George was an Anglican clergyman and the family took pretty seriously prayers during the various moments of the day as also happened everywhere in the past, with many prayers and long moments dedicated to God.
I found this book original and very well done and I think that it is a good gift for all Jane Austen's passionate avid readers and estimators but also for all the other people who wants to pray accompanied by the gentle touch and nature by Austen.
Highly recommended.
I thank NetGalley and Bethany House for this eBook.
Anna Maria Polidori
March 31, 2019
I read this as part of a year long study of Jane Austen. I enjoyed this glimpse into her spiritual life and how it affected her relationships with friends and family, and influenced her writing.
December 24, 2018
I'm actually not religious, but I adore Jane Austen and was intrigued by the book because of that. I won it through a contest on the blog, Jane Austen's World (an amazing blog, by the way). I really enjoyed the book, especially learning about Jane's prayers and her religious views as well as tidbits about her life through letters she wrote with her sister. It was an interesting read, and I think the book itself (cover and layout) is quite beautiful!
June 19, 2019
As a Christian and as a Jane fan, I was disappointed on both counts. I could not get passed the first devotion. I just couldn't stomach the invitation right off the bat to pray that Jesus prayer. It's not for "liberal / progresive mainline" Protestants such as myself. It just doesn't jive with Jane's Angelicanism - I think she would be rolling in her grave. I'm going to read a real biography of hers instead, and I would probably be more "spiritually fed" by that.
May 31, 2023
2023 - Sweet reread with my sister. Rachel’s writing is filled with truth, encouragement, exhortation, joy and oh so much love. Since I’ve read all of Jane Austen’s books since my last read, this devo held even more meaning. Was thrilled to meet Rachel unexpectedly this spring at Landmark Booksellers in Franklin, TN. Just as lovely in person as she is on social media. She truly loves the Lord!💗
•••
2019 - Most excellent!
•••
2019 - Most excellent!
July 31, 2023
Rachel Dodge has written a lovely devotional. The book is divided into three sections, each beginning with one of Jane’s prayers. Each prayer is followed by ten daily devotions. Each devotion begins with an excerpt from the prayer, and then explores that thought using examples from Jane’s books, scriptures, and prayers to make your own.
A perfect way to start each day in Jane Austen July.
A perfect way to start each day in Jane Austen July.
March 23, 2021
I completely adore this devotional and purchased more as Christmas gifts! Jane Austen is very near and dear to me. She was a woman of wonderful words and her prayers are so moving! Rachel Dodge does an amazing job of blending Jane Austen’s prayers, novels, and life in the context of her faith!
October 31, 2025
Me ha sorprendido gratamente este devocional basado en las tres oraciones escritas por Jane Austen. En cuanto al formato, cada diez días aproximadamente, la autora presenta una de las oraciones. Después, cada día, va profundizando en pequeñas porciones de esa oración. Para ello presenta alguna ilustración sacada directamente de la vida de Jane Austen o de algún personaje de sus novelas. Entonces lo relaciona con la realidad teológica mencionada en la porción de la oración e incluye versículos bíblicos que apoyen sus reflexiones. Al final de cada día, incluye una invitación a orar con alguna pregunta de aplicación y una oración ya escrita que el lector puede hacer rellenando con sus propias experiencias. Sin duda, todo estaba muy bien organizado y tenía todos los componentes de un devocional: textos bíblicos, reflexión, aplicación, oración...
En cuanto al contenido, me ha encantado poder disponer de tres oraciones escritas por Austen. Además, la autora del devocional es experta en la vida y obra de Jane Austen y aporta muchos datos interesantes. Pero lo que más me ha gustado y sorprendido es la profundidad de las reflexiones teológicas. No esperaba que un devocional así profundizase tanto en realidades sacadas directamente de la Palabra y que las presente de manera tan aplicable y relevante. ¡Todo un descubrimiento!
En cuanto al contenido, me ha encantado poder disponer de tres oraciones escritas por Austen. Además, la autora del devocional es experta en la vida y obra de Jane Austen y aporta muchos datos interesantes. Pero lo que más me ha gustado y sorprendido es la profundidad de las reflexiones teológicas. No esperaba que un devocional así profundizase tanto en realidades sacadas directamente de la Palabra y que las presente de manera tan aplicable y relevante. ¡Todo un descubrimiento!
December 9, 2019
My Thoughts on Praying with Jane:
I have long loved Jane Austen as an author and was intrigued when this title came across my email screen. Of course, I had to sign up to review it!
It has not disappointed me. This is going to be a book that stays on my shelf for years to come. I can see myself purchasing copies of this book to gift to literary like-minded friends and definitely to my own daughters as they grow. I’ve made sure they are literature lovers and they have all read Jane Austen already or will as they get older!
I love that this includes some of the words of Jane herself. It’s also very nice that they have added in scriptures and other thoughts as well to make it relevant to us today.
Somehow I feel like I’m sharing a cup of tea with one of my favorite authors when I’m reading this devotional. I have a feeling I could use this every day of every month of the year and still not grow tired of it. Also, I think I’d still get something new out of each devotional by the time the twelfth month came along.
I highly recommend you get your own copy of this book. The cover is gorgeous and the inner pages follow suit.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
I have long loved Jane Austen as an author and was intrigued when this title came across my email screen. Of course, I had to sign up to review it!
It has not disappointed me. This is going to be a book that stays on my shelf for years to come. I can see myself purchasing copies of this book to gift to literary like-minded friends and definitely to my own daughters as they grow. I’ve made sure they are literature lovers and they have all read Jane Austen already or will as they get older!
I love that this includes some of the words of Jane herself. It’s also very nice that they have added in scriptures and other thoughts as well to make it relevant to us today.
Somehow I feel like I’m sharing a cup of tea with one of my favorite authors when I’m reading this devotional. I have a feeling I could use this every day of every month of the year and still not grow tired of it. Also, I think I’d still get something new out of each devotional by the time the twelfth month came along.
I highly recommend you get your own copy of this book. The cover is gorgeous and the inner pages follow suit.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
October 4, 2018
I LOVE Jane Austen. I had not learned much about her life and past, however.
It was a joy to read more about her faith, her family, and her vocation in this book. I loved this unique approach. As an Anglican myself, it was fun to connect with someone from my own faith background in a new way. Growing my relationship with God and studying a favorite author was a unique experience. I don't think I would have ever thought to write a book like this myself- very creative job Rachel Dodge!
The prayers are absolutely beautiful. The devotional content, however, was lacking in Scripture. I enjoyed the focus on prayer greatly. I view this as more of a prayer book than a Scripture-based devotional. Which is totally fine! This is definitley not your run of the mill devotional- read a scripture, have a reflection from the author, read a brief prayer- you know the drill. We get to go really in depth into Jane's prayers, build our own prayer life, and follow guided prayers from the author if we desire. These devotionals have given me food for thought, journal topics and grown my faith.
This would be an excellent book for any Austen fan, history buff, or individual wanting to deepen their prayer relationship.
I was grateful to receive a digital Advanced Reader Copy to share my honest opinions.
It was a joy to read more about her faith, her family, and her vocation in this book. I loved this unique approach. As an Anglican myself, it was fun to connect with someone from my own faith background in a new way. Growing my relationship with God and studying a favorite author was a unique experience. I don't think I would have ever thought to write a book like this myself- very creative job Rachel Dodge!
The prayers are absolutely beautiful. The devotional content, however, was lacking in Scripture. I enjoyed the focus on prayer greatly. I view this as more of a prayer book than a Scripture-based devotional. Which is totally fine! This is definitley not your run of the mill devotional- read a scripture, have a reflection from the author, read a brief prayer- you know the drill. We get to go really in depth into Jane's prayers, build our own prayer life, and follow guided prayers from the author if we desire. These devotionals have given me food for thought, journal topics and grown my faith.
This would be an excellent book for any Austen fan, history buff, or individual wanting to deepen their prayer relationship.
I was grateful to receive a digital Advanced Reader Copy to share my honest opinions.
October 4, 2018
If you're a Jane Austen fan, this adorable, thought-provoking devotional is sure to impress. Lovely, hard bound in gift book size, this would make a perfect gift for the person in your life who has read everything there is about Jane Austen.
The devotionals are set up by taking portions of Jane's three recorded prayers and taking them line by line to stretch the devotions out over a 31 day period. The reader learns much about Jane's upbringing, spiritual life, everyday existence and finally, her lasting legacy.
I am a life long reader and lover of all things Victorian, and I was sad when the book ended. I will most definitely remember this book for friends who also love Austen's work. Rachel Dodge has done a great job in her research as well as connecting the long ago past to current times. There's something to be learned from every generation.
I received an early reader's copy from Bethany House Publishers and chose to review. All opinions are my own.
The devotionals are set up by taking portions of Jane's three recorded prayers and taking them line by line to stretch the devotions out over a 31 day period. The reader learns much about Jane's upbringing, spiritual life, everyday existence and finally, her lasting legacy.
I am a life long reader and lover of all things Victorian, and I was sad when the book ended. I will most definitely remember this book for friends who also love Austen's work. Rachel Dodge has done a great job in her research as well as connecting the long ago past to current times. There's something to be learned from every generation.
I received an early reader's copy from Bethany House Publishers and chose to review. All opinions are my own.
reviewed
December 9, 2019In a beautiful little book of thirty-one devotional readings, Rachel Dodge explores the life and work of Jane Austen as they relate to faith and Scripture. Each day is a short, yet purposeful read, an uplifting way to incorporate prayer daily.
As a casual fan of Austen, I enjoyed my time with Praying With Jane. Dodge brings her to life with relevance and grace, and I began to understand her in a new way. I think fans of the beloved author, too, could also benefit from the devotional—if you’re in need of some Austen-based encouragement, definitely pick it up.
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
As a casual fan of Austen, I enjoyed my time with Praying With Jane. Dodge brings her to life with relevance and grace, and I began to understand her in a new way. I think fans of the beloved author, too, could also benefit from the devotional—if you’re in need of some Austen-based encouragement, definitely pick it up.
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
September 1, 2021
This rating is NOT for Jane Austen’s prayers. They are beautiful, rich and heartfelt and I want to frame all three of them. They are deeply rooted in Scripture and the Book of Common Prayer.
That said, the concept of this book is good, but it would have benefitted from being written by someone more familiar with the BCP and the theology Jane likely held to by virtue of being in the Church of England (i.e. an Anglican or someone in an Anglican church). It is also a tall order to write a book about prayers written by one of the best writers, and this didn’t do Jane justice. It just fell short for me in so many ways.
If you want to pray with Jane, just get copies of her prayers and go through them on your own.
That said, the concept of this book is good, but it would have benefitted from being written by someone more familiar with the BCP and the theology Jane likely held to by virtue of being in the Church of England (i.e. an Anglican or someone in an Anglican church). It is also a tall order to write a book about prayers written by one of the best writers, and this didn’t do Jane justice. It just fell short for me in so many ways.
If you want to pray with Jane, just get copies of her prayers and go through them on your own.
December 2, 2019
Praying with Jane: 31 Days Through the Prayers of Jane Austen by Rachel Dodge offers readers a daily devotional based on the three known prayers written by Jane Austen. Each prayer receives ten or eleven days of attention, effectively immersing the reader into the prayer.
Having recently reread Pride & Prejudice, I was delighted to start into Praying with Jane. Each devotional entry begins with an examination of a portion of one of Jane’s prayers. Jane’s personal life and literary works appear often as the author brings together Austen’s prayer and the devotional thought. All six of Austen’s published novels are referenced in various points. Naturally, many Biblical principles and Scriptures were included. The second section offers a brief invitation to pray that encourages personal introspection and honesty. Lastly, a pre-composed prayer leads the reader in communion with God through prayer.
Two of my favorite devotional entries in Praying with Jane were: (1) Every Good and Perfect Gift (Pg. 39) which focused on thankfulness. (2) A Benevolent Spirit (Pg. 77) which encouraged generosity toward others. This book spoke to me as it offered reminders of God’s love as well as instruction on the Christian life. I highly recommend Praying with Jane: 31 Days Through the Prayers of Jane Austen to Jane Austen fans. It has a permanent home on my bookcase and I expect to read it again in the future.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author. All opinions in this review are my own.
Having recently reread Pride & Prejudice, I was delighted to start into Praying with Jane. Each devotional entry begins with an examination of a portion of one of Jane’s prayers. Jane’s personal life and literary works appear often as the author brings together Austen’s prayer and the devotional thought. All six of Austen’s published novels are referenced in various points. Naturally, many Biblical principles and Scriptures were included. The second section offers a brief invitation to pray that encourages personal introspection and honesty. Lastly, a pre-composed prayer leads the reader in communion with God through prayer.
Two of my favorite devotional entries in Praying with Jane were: (1) Every Good and Perfect Gift (Pg. 39) which focused on thankfulness. (2) A Benevolent Spirit (Pg. 77) which encouraged generosity toward others. This book spoke to me as it offered reminders of God’s love as well as instruction on the Christian life. I highly recommend Praying with Jane: 31 Days Through the Prayers of Jane Austen to Jane Austen fans. It has a permanent home on my bookcase and I expect to read it again in the future.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author. All opinions in this review are my own.
December 7, 2019
Its no secret that Jane Austen is my all time favorite author. So when I discovered this little devotional that goes through three of her prayers, that she wrote 200 years ago. I was immediately drawn in.
This cozy devotional dissects Jane Austen's three prayers with snippets from her books and bits from letters and such that she and members of her family wrote. With insights about who Jane Austen was outside of her books.
A lovely little devotional about prayer with plenty of practical advice and insights that inspire our pray life in a big way. The book itself is well formatted and written beautifully.
This cozy devotional dissects Jane Austen's three prayers with snippets from her books and bits from letters and such that she and members of her family wrote. With insights about who Jane Austen was outside of her books.
A lovely little devotional about prayer with plenty of practical advice and insights that inspire our pray life in a big way. The book itself is well formatted and written beautifully.
November 15, 2020
I'm a huge fan of Jane Austen and thoroughly enjoyed this lovely devotional. I'm impressed with Rachel Dodge and how she compiled this book drawn from JA's prayers. I purchased a copy and was under no obligation to write a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews