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Jane Austen’s Genius Guide to Life: On Love, Friendship, and Becoming the Person God Created You to Be
Popular Catholic podcaster Haley Stewart insists that there’s no better life coach than nineteenth-century British novelist Jane Austen. In this uniquely Catholic take, Stewart reveals Austen’s thoughtful, deeply personal exploration of human relationships—including with God—through her six novels. Stewart’s insights take you on a journey that is both literary and spiritual, revealing how Austen’s characters and themes can lead to you to discover and become the person God has called you to be. Stewart draws fascinating connections between Austen’s novels and real life and introduces Austen as a capable life coach by how she guides her readers to understand virtue and vice through friendship, love, community, and God’s grace. Austen’s characters reveal how virtuous habits transform us and help us become who we were meant to be. Each chapter focuses on characters and virtues from a single Whether you are already an Austen fan or are discovering her works for the first time, Stewart’s infectious enthusiasm and captivating spiritual insights will have you digging in to experience firsthand the characters and stories that have captured imaginations in book and film for more than two centuries. Discussion questions and recommended film adaptations make this book suitable for individual or group use or as a high school classroom or homeschool resource. A free, downloadable leader’s guide is available at avemariapress.com.
160 pages, Paperback
Published March 25, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
March 6, 2022
Retitle this unique and motivating book to "What Would Jane Do?" and you've got a good sense of what it's about. Perfect for Janeites and anyone who seeks a Catholic perspective on how to live with integrity and joy. Out March 25.
April 17, 2022
This review was first published at Babblings of a Bookworm: https://babblingsofabookworm.blogspot...
This is a book looking at Jane Austen’s works as a guide to life, from a Catholic perspective. Although I would call myself a Christian, and was baptised Catholic, I didn’t have a religious upbringing, so am not coming at this book from a Catholic perspective. Austen was not Catholic, but was obviously born at a time when religion was much more a part of everyday life. When you think of some of the clergymen she wrote (Mr Elton in Emma and Pride & Prejudice’s Mr Collins, for example) you could be forgiven for thinking that she didn’t hold religion in high regard but I believe that she held hypocritical clergymen in low regard. Austen is known to have written prayers and I think had a belief in God. Moreover, I think she had a belief that it was important to have a moral code and improve yourself. When you think of her novels, most of them have a strong correlation between good morals and good outcomes.
I love Austen’s novels for the fact that we have realistic good and bad in the characters – at the time most heroines were tiresomely perfect, and Austen’s heroines had flaws, while her less admirable characters also have redeeming characteristics. Some characters, like Marianne in S&S, learn to behave differently, and this helps on her road to happiness. Others, like Lydia Bennet in P&P or Maria Bertram in MP, behave outside the moral code, don’t change their ways are punished by their outcomes.
Austen’s villains make excuses, view the world through a fog of selfishness, and are incapable of loving other people well. They are in a hell of their own making – and without contrition and transformation, they will stay there.
Ms Stewart looks at the 6 main novels of Austen and looks at the lessons we can learn from them in detail, relating them to everyday modern life events.
One of the things that I think make Austen’s novels so timeless is that they are about people, rather than events, which are universal, and the author looks at many of their faults, and what we could learn about ourselves from reading Austen’s books.
Do you have those trustworthy Mr. Knightleys in your life? Do you have people who will call you out because they love you?
As highlighted in the book description, focus is put on each of the novels and how Austen’s novels teach us how to cultivate the virtues of humility, compassion, temperance, constancy, fortitude and prudence.
One aspect I liked is that the author mentions the novels having moments of ‘undeception’, where usually the heroine, but sometimes the hero realises where they have been wrong. This hadn’t occurred to me, but it was interesting to think of the moments in each novel with this in mind.
Dante’s The Divine Comedy was mentioned many times, almost as though it was as important as the Bible. I am not sure how this work is regarded in Catholic culture but the author seems to think that we should be aware of it and agree with it. I looked it up after reading and it seems to be a work from 1320 which was hugely successful in its time and centuries after. It has had a lot of influence on popular conceptions of hell.
At the end of the book there are book discussion questions, and summaries of the six main novels for those who were unfamiliar with the works, which I thought were a useful addition.
I enjoyed reading this book. It gave me food for thought. There are some religious themes and comments such as working towards becoming the person God wants you to be, but I think that should be expected in a book that is billed clearly as being Catholic. I’d rate this as a 4 star read.
* I received an ebook of this title from Netgalley for my honest review.
This is a book looking at Jane Austen’s works as a guide to life, from a Catholic perspective. Although I would call myself a Christian, and was baptised Catholic, I didn’t have a religious upbringing, so am not coming at this book from a Catholic perspective. Austen was not Catholic, but was obviously born at a time when religion was much more a part of everyday life. When you think of some of the clergymen she wrote (Mr Elton in Emma and Pride & Prejudice’s Mr Collins, for example) you could be forgiven for thinking that she didn’t hold religion in high regard but I believe that she held hypocritical clergymen in low regard. Austen is known to have written prayers and I think had a belief in God. Moreover, I think she had a belief that it was important to have a moral code and improve yourself. When you think of her novels, most of them have a strong correlation between good morals and good outcomes.
I love Austen’s novels for the fact that we have realistic good and bad in the characters – at the time most heroines were tiresomely perfect, and Austen’s heroines had flaws, while her less admirable characters also have redeeming characteristics. Some characters, like Marianne in S&S, learn to behave differently, and this helps on her road to happiness. Others, like Lydia Bennet in P&P or Maria Bertram in MP, behave outside the moral code, don’t change their ways are punished by their outcomes.
Austen’s villains make excuses, view the world through a fog of selfishness, and are incapable of loving other people well. They are in a hell of their own making – and without contrition and transformation, they will stay there.
Ms Stewart looks at the 6 main novels of Austen and looks at the lessons we can learn from them in detail, relating them to everyday modern life events.
One of the things that I think make Austen’s novels so timeless is that they are about people, rather than events, which are universal, and the author looks at many of their faults, and what we could learn about ourselves from reading Austen’s books.
Do you have those trustworthy Mr. Knightleys in your life? Do you have people who will call you out because they love you?
As highlighted in the book description, focus is put on each of the novels and how Austen’s novels teach us how to cultivate the virtues of humility, compassion, temperance, constancy, fortitude and prudence.
One aspect I liked is that the author mentions the novels having moments of ‘undeception’, where usually the heroine, but sometimes the hero realises where they have been wrong. This hadn’t occurred to me, but it was interesting to think of the moments in each novel with this in mind.
Dante’s The Divine Comedy was mentioned many times, almost as though it was as important as the Bible. I am not sure how this work is regarded in Catholic culture but the author seems to think that we should be aware of it and agree with it. I looked it up after reading and it seems to be a work from 1320 which was hugely successful in its time and centuries after. It has had a lot of influence on popular conceptions of hell.
At the end of the book there are book discussion questions, and summaries of the six main novels for those who were unfamiliar with the works, which I thought were a useful addition.
I enjoyed reading this book. It gave me food for thought. There are some religious themes and comments such as working towards becoming the person God wants you to be, but I think that should be expected in a book that is billed clearly as being Catholic. I’d rate this as a 4 star read.
* I received an ebook of this title from Netgalley for my honest review.
February 10, 2022
This book is an invaluable resource to go along with the reading of Jane Austen, either for a seasoned Janeite, or for someone who is completely new to her work. Haley's love for Jane Austen very clearly shines through, and her passion, along with just the right mix of anecdote and serious considerations, makes it very readable and enjoyable, and can certainly ignite the passion of a reader.
I also love the amount to which she weaves in other elements of the Catholic tradition and Catholic literary tradition--Dante, Lewis, Chesterton, Waugh, and various Marian titles. It's very clearly a unified Catholic lens for viewing Austen's works, which works quite well, in my opinion. But I don't think that makes it inaccessible for a non-Catholic or even non-Christian, either.
The book is structured with a chapter each for each of Austen's finished works, and then one at the end about love, which was the perfect conclusion. Each chapter focused on a virtue within the book, and how it's displayed--or not--by various characters. It was a remarkable one-ness of focus that held each chapter and the book together in a wonderful way. And each of the virtues did challenge me and convicted me to a greater or lesser degree. There's a lot for me to work on!
Most impressively of all, she made me want to read Mansfield Park, which is a minor miracle...
This is definitely one that I'll be revisiting (and stealing my mom's coming copy...)!
I also love the amount to which she weaves in other elements of the Catholic tradition and Catholic literary tradition--Dante, Lewis, Chesterton, Waugh, and various Marian titles. It's very clearly a unified Catholic lens for viewing Austen's works, which works quite well, in my opinion. But I don't think that makes it inaccessible for a non-Catholic or even non-Christian, either.
The book is structured with a chapter each for each of Austen's finished works, and then one at the end about love, which was the perfect conclusion. Each chapter focused on a virtue within the book, and how it's displayed--or not--by various characters. It was a remarkable one-ness of focus that held each chapter and the book together in a wonderful way. And each of the virtues did challenge me and convicted me to a greater or lesser degree. There's a lot for me to work on!
Most impressively of all, she made me want to read Mansfield Park, which is a minor miracle...
This is definitely one that I'll be revisiting (and stealing my mom's coming copy...)!
July 9, 2022
I was first introduced to the concept of virtue in Karen Swallow Prior's wonderful book On Reading Well. Haley's book is similar in that she explores the concept of virtue in Jane Austen's six novels with a good introduction and epilogue. Jane Austen's novels are so easy to read for the surface-level plot alone, but I think Haley does a great job of exploring the depth of each novel and the clarion call to virtue that runs like a golden thread through each of Jane's novels. She combines literary "criticism", virtue ethics, and personal application in an easy-to-read, thoughtful, and fun way. I came away with some new insights into Austen's characters and plots, and I know I'm going to enjoy picking this up in the future to read a chapter here and there. I am also inspired anew to live a life of virtue and to continue to pursue not just happiness but also holiness.
July 14, 2022
I really enjoyed this read! I'm not Catholic (though am Christian), but I'm in a Facebook group the author co-mods for (totally didn't connect the dots until midway through, haha) and enjoyed that connection--not to mention the shared love of Jane Austen.
I've read all of Austen's books, and appreciated the recaps of each within this book as well as Stewart's take on the lessons we can learn. Again, my not being Catholic, we have a few divergent points and/or emphases in faith and life--but a lot more shared ones.
Enlightening and helpful.
I've read all of Austen's books, and appreciated the recaps of each within this book as well as Stewart's take on the lessons we can learn. Again, my not being Catholic, we have a few divergent points and/or emphases in faith and life--but a lot more shared ones.
Enlightening and helpful.
September 10, 2022
Part charming conversation, part the theology of virtue, all Austenite! A little light, but not an unlikely reread.
April 16, 2022
This was a lovely read that took each of Jane Austen's novels and helped draw out what we can learn from each of her heroines.
December 23, 2021
I jumped at the opportunity to get an ARC of this new book by Haley Stewart to review. I love Jane Austen and this is a book for anyone who loves her writing, wants to be introduced to it, or wants to delve more deeply into these books that have captured imagination for generations after their publication. Realizing I had not yet read all of Austen's writing, I binge-read the novels I had not yet read as I read Haley's book, which made reading this Genius Guide all the more enriching (and also got me ahead of the inevitable spoilers in Haley's book!) I enjoyed Haley's insights into each novel and how Austen manages to illustrate virtue and vice in everyday life while still being highly entertaining. Who knew a 19th century novelist could serve as a 21st century life coach?
This book could be used, alongside Austen's novels, as a fantastic book club guide. I can see book clubs doing six months on Jane Austen by reading one novel every month and then reading and discussing the chapter in Haley's Genius Guide that covers that book. There are discussion questions for each chapter at the end, a synopsis of each Austen novel, and a recommendation list for the best Austen movie adaptations.
This book is a great read and also a great gift for any literature lover in your life. I highly recommend it.
This book could be used, alongside Austen's novels, as a fantastic book club guide. I can see book clubs doing six months on Jane Austen by reading one novel every month and then reading and discussing the chapter in Haley's Genius Guide that covers that book. There are discussion questions for each chapter at the end, a synopsis of each Austen novel, and a recommendation list for the best Austen movie adaptations.
This book is a great read and also a great gift for any literature lover in your life. I highly recommend it.
January 29, 2023
Imagine Jane Austen as your life coach, with each of her novels as guidebooks. Haley Stewart embraces this concept and leans all the way in, expertly using each of Austen’s six novels to teach readers about virtues and life lessons. I found it as enjoyable for Stewart’s examples as for the deeper dive into Austen’s life and philosophy she provided.
October 3, 2022
I really enjoyed this book and found it fruitful to read. I am inspired to re-read Jane Austen's books again, and will probably revisit this guide either while reading Austen's works or utilizing it as an Jane Austen book club discussion guide!
Throughout the book, Stewart discusses the vices and virtues found in each of Austen's books/characters. Stewart does a great job describing why these books speak to us and can inspire us 200 years later. I personally loved the additional books, authors, saints, and movies referenced in this guide - it really spoke to me and illustrated similarities in myself, the author, and the "life coach" aspect of reading good books!
Some quotes from the Epilogue give a nice summary of what to expect in the book:
"Becoming the people God made us to be is the work of a lifetime. Assuming that we can just wake up one morning and will ourselves into holiness is as naive as assuming that we can just wai up one morning without training and run a marathon. Holiness is something we have to practice everyday, and we're going to mess up - a lot. But Austen shows us that our mistakes don't have to define us forever." Pg 110
" Walking in Jane's footsteps, we should live with enduring hope. We should love well, become the people God calls us to be, and look toward eternity - with laughter and a good novel, as I think our life coach would want." Pg 112
Throughout the book, Stewart discusses the vices and virtues found in each of Austen's books/characters. Stewart does a great job describing why these books speak to us and can inspire us 200 years later. I personally loved the additional books, authors, saints, and movies referenced in this guide - it really spoke to me and illustrated similarities in myself, the author, and the "life coach" aspect of reading good books!
Some quotes from the Epilogue give a nice summary of what to expect in the book:
"Becoming the people God made us to be is the work of a lifetime. Assuming that we can just wake up one morning and will ourselves into holiness is as naive as assuming that we can just wai up one morning without training and run a marathon. Holiness is something we have to practice everyday, and we're going to mess up - a lot. But Austen shows us that our mistakes don't have to define us forever." Pg 110
" Walking in Jane's footsteps, we should live with enduring hope. We should love well, become the people God calls us to be, and look toward eternity - with laughter and a good novel, as I think our life coach would want." Pg 112
January 26, 2022
The ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
This book is best geared to a pretty specific audience: Catholic fans of Jane Austen. As an Austen-lover who has also enjoyed blog posts written by Stewart, I was pretty psyched about this book. I feel as though Stewart's voice really shined through, and I enjoyed her take on Austen's novels and how they illustrate various virtues (and can help us grow in virtues as well). I was tickled by the idea of Jane Austen as a "life coach". Stewart claims you don't need to have read all of Austen's novels to benefit from the book, and she includes summaries of each novel in the appendix for the curious. While it's probably true you don't NEED to have read them beforehand (and could actually be inspired to read or re-read the novels), I think I enjoyed this book more having read the novels ahead of time. Non-Catholics who enjoy philosophy studies may also find the book interesting, though there are Marian references in each chapter. The author also references her life in relation to the novels and highlighted virtues, so there is a slight emphasis on motherhood (which I can't relate to). Overall, this book both enlightened and entertained me.
This book is best geared to a pretty specific audience: Catholic fans of Jane Austen. As an Austen-lover who has also enjoyed blog posts written by Stewart, I was pretty psyched about this book. I feel as though Stewart's voice really shined through, and I enjoyed her take on Austen's novels and how they illustrate various virtues (and can help us grow in virtues as well). I was tickled by the idea of Jane Austen as a "life coach". Stewart claims you don't need to have read all of Austen's novels to benefit from the book, and she includes summaries of each novel in the appendix for the curious. While it's probably true you don't NEED to have read them beforehand (and could actually be inspired to read or re-read the novels), I think I enjoyed this book more having read the novels ahead of time. Non-Catholics who enjoy philosophy studies may also find the book interesting, though there are Marian references in each chapter. The author also references her life in relation to the novels and highlighted virtues, so there is a slight emphasis on motherhood (which I can't relate to). Overall, this book both enlightened and entertained me.
May 15, 2022
As a Janeite, I was intrigued by the concept of this book. I'm not a Catholic, but then, neither was Jane Austen. The idea of how to be a better person through reading Austen sounded intriguing. But I found this book to be a bit all over the place (there's a digression, an anecdote, or a non-Austen literary reference in almost every paragraph), and the preachy religious content feels a bit shoehorned in, e.g.:
"Through her stories, she reveals to us a blueprint for how to become a good person—awakening self-knowledge, cultivating humility (by the grace of community), and achieving that spiritual transformation that is necessary to become a “new creation” (2 Cor 5:17). She shows us how to become holy, to follow in the steps of the saints."
So I guess I'd still like to read a guide for better living through Austen; this wasn't it for me.
Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to review a temporary digital ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
"Through her stories, she reveals to us a blueprint for how to become a good person—awakening self-knowledge, cultivating humility (by the grace of community), and achieving that spiritual transformation that is necessary to become a “new creation” (2 Cor 5:17). She shows us how to become holy, to follow in the steps of the saints."
So I guess I'd still like to read a guide for better living through Austen; this wasn't it for me.
Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to review a temporary digital ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
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January 3, 2022Jane Austen meets faith is always a book I will sign up for.
I enjoyed that each of Jane Austen's books were focused on, rather than only a few as so often happens.
I'm not Catholic so I couldn't appreciate that aspect of it, but the more general Christian themes and applications were done well and I would definitely give this book as a gift to my Catholic friends.
I enjoyed that each of Jane Austen's books were focused on, rather than only a few as so often happens.
I'm not Catholic so I couldn't appreciate that aspect of it, but the more general Christian themes and applications were done well and I would definitely give this book as a gift to my Catholic friends.
February 26, 2022
This was a very sweet book for Jane Austen fans, and Austen fans to-be. It goes through her major novels, discussing the life lessons we can learn from Austen’s complex realistic characters. She writes,
“The majority of our lives is not played out in dramatic moments of political intrigue or in war rooms. Our lives are made up of small things; dealing with financial worries, conversing with irritating neighbors, regretting past decisions, making small misjudgments of others. (…) For those of us who are regular folks, or kings or generals, her presentation of successes and failures in virtues shows us what it looks like for ordinary men and women to try to become good people.”
And it is true, there is a lot to learn from the journeys Austen’s characters go on, the mistakes they make and how they grow as people and learn to see themselves and others in new ways.
I enjoyed the discussion on “Pride & Prejudice”, “Northanger Abbey”, and “Emma”, I actually felt more sympathy for Marianne in the “Sense & Sensibility” discussion, but my favorites were the takes on Fanny Price and Anne Elliot.
Fanny Price will never be my favorite, but it did feel like I got a better perspective on her, and I kind of felt like “Mansfield Park” should be required reading in high school as a lesson in valuing virtue over charm (I.e. being able to develop a fortitude to resist peer pressure and value yourself as you are, even if that makes you less “fun”). Let’s be Fanny, not Edmund.
“Edmund wants to do what is right, but he is bamboozled by charm - he does not have the moral strength and courage to stay committed to the right course of action under pressure from others.”
This discussion made me feel called out though, because I DO fall for the charm of the Crawfords and prefer them over Fanny. In usual cases I don’t really like romantic narratives that are about a woman changing a man into a better man, but when Henry Crawford steps on the scene I’m all “go on girl, you can change him! You should totally marry him!” (So it was a relief later when the author admitted that she too was swayed by his charm and wished that it turned out differently and that he really could make himself worthy of Fanny)
My favorite discussion was about “Persuasion” however, it is such a slight novel, yet thee is so much depth to it and it also feels so different from other Austen novels, which Stewart points out why. There is a darkness to it that feels more mature and Anne, though long suffering, is far more loveable than Fanny. Anne may be the heroine we have the most to learn from actually, but not only her, Captain Wentworth has some life lessons for us as well, to take to heart,
All in all, if you like Austen this is probably for you. I read some scholarly books on Austen studies last year, which was interesting, but this was definitely more fun, there is so much heart and warmth in this. Stewart is a true fan girl in the best way.
I liked the personal touches that were part of the narrative and felt very relatable (liking thinking you’re a patient person, before you have kids…), I am supremely jealous though that she got to read a philosophy paper on Austen in front of none other than Alisdair MacIntyre! As a fan of “After Virtue” that sounded amazing.
Now, for me who’s read the books not only multiple times, but also recently for a book club, the recaps of the stories were not necessary, and neither were the summaries at the end, however, for someone who didn’t recently read the books or haven’t read them, these are excellent and makes the book very accessible. Perhaps it will get some Austen skeptics interested in picking up (getting hooked) on her novels!
This book taught me to look at some characters in new ways and take some new thoughts into my next reading of the novels. I haven’t thought of Jane Austen as a life coach before, but it turns out she makes a pretty good one. So, if you’re curious, this is a sweet little read Austen fans will like.
Oh and,
“The novel is chock full of memorable characters such as Colonel Brandon (played perfectly in the 1995 film by the late Alan Rickman - and no, I’m still not over his death, thanks for asking)”
…. Same girl, same!
(And how didn’t I know Emma Thompson wrote the screenplay for that movie!?)
Thank you to Ave Maria Press and NetGalley for this ARC, all opinions are my own.
“The majority of our lives is not played out in dramatic moments of political intrigue or in war rooms. Our lives are made up of small things; dealing with financial worries, conversing with irritating neighbors, regretting past decisions, making small misjudgments of others. (…) For those of us who are regular folks, or kings or generals, her presentation of successes and failures in virtues shows us what it looks like for ordinary men and women to try to become good people.”
And it is true, there is a lot to learn from the journeys Austen’s characters go on, the mistakes they make and how they grow as people and learn to see themselves and others in new ways.
I enjoyed the discussion on “Pride & Prejudice”, “Northanger Abbey”, and “Emma”, I actually felt more sympathy for Marianne in the “Sense & Sensibility” discussion, but my favorites were the takes on Fanny Price and Anne Elliot.
Fanny Price will never be my favorite, but it did feel like I got a better perspective on her, and I kind of felt like “Mansfield Park” should be required reading in high school as a lesson in valuing virtue over charm (I.e. being able to develop a fortitude to resist peer pressure and value yourself as you are, even if that makes you less “fun”). Let’s be Fanny, not Edmund.
“Edmund wants to do what is right, but he is bamboozled by charm - he does not have the moral strength and courage to stay committed to the right course of action under pressure from others.”
This discussion made me feel called out though, because I DO fall for the charm of the Crawfords and prefer them over Fanny. In usual cases I don’t really like romantic narratives that are about a woman changing a man into a better man, but when Henry Crawford steps on the scene I’m all “go on girl, you can change him! You should totally marry him!” (So it was a relief later when the author admitted that she too was swayed by his charm and wished that it turned out differently and that he really could make himself worthy of Fanny)
My favorite discussion was about “Persuasion” however, it is such a slight novel, yet thee is so much depth to it and it also feels so different from other Austen novels, which Stewart points out why. There is a darkness to it that feels more mature and Anne, though long suffering, is far more loveable than Fanny. Anne may be the heroine we have the most to learn from actually, but not only her, Captain Wentworth has some life lessons for us as well, to take to heart,
All in all, if you like Austen this is probably for you. I read some scholarly books on Austen studies last year, which was interesting, but this was definitely more fun, there is so much heart and warmth in this. Stewart is a true fan girl in the best way.
I liked the personal touches that were part of the narrative and felt very relatable (liking thinking you’re a patient person, before you have kids…), I am supremely jealous though that she got to read a philosophy paper on Austen in front of none other than Alisdair MacIntyre! As a fan of “After Virtue” that sounded amazing.
Now, for me who’s read the books not only multiple times, but also recently for a book club, the recaps of the stories were not necessary, and neither were the summaries at the end, however, for someone who didn’t recently read the books or haven’t read them, these are excellent and makes the book very accessible. Perhaps it will get some Austen skeptics interested in picking up (getting hooked) on her novels!
This book taught me to look at some characters in new ways and take some new thoughts into my next reading of the novels. I haven’t thought of Jane Austen as a life coach before, but it turns out she makes a pretty good one. So, if you’re curious, this is a sweet little read Austen fans will like.
Oh and,
“The novel is chock full of memorable characters such as Colonel Brandon (played perfectly in the 1995 film by the late Alan Rickman - and no, I’m still not over his death, thanks for asking)”
…. Same girl, same!
(And how didn’t I know Emma Thompson wrote the screenplay for that movie!?)
Thank you to Ave Maria Press and NetGalley for this ARC, all opinions are my own.
December 28, 2025
Definitely a lighter read but an enjoyable one. It felt like having a conversation with a very excited Austen-nerd friend 🤣 i appreciated the organic interweaving of various literary critics, philosophers, and Dante references, which all helped tie together Stewart's observations on the nature of virtue and vice in these characters. the only two things I would have liked to see differently are 1) I am a MOTHER MARY STAN but the tacked-on Marian observations at the end of each chapter felt a bit shoehorned in, as opposed to the natural way other saints' and authors' observations or anecdotes were referenced, and 2) the focus is primarily on the protagonists of each novel, and while I can learn a lot from reflecting on them, I have also found close examination of the side characters in each novel to be just as enriching, so I would have loved to see more of that.
June 17, 2024
I'm a Jane Austen fan and Catholic. This book pretty much fits me perfectly. I love how the author matched virtues with the novels. She had a way of explaining and narrating that left me in awe of the depth to her writing.
September 21, 2024
Charming, full of depth, and a curated watching list combine to create a remarkable book.
October 7, 2025
I already loved Jane Austen, but this little book that goes through the virtues and vices of Austen’s characters just made her even better! Now it’s time to re-read all of my Austen books. ☺️
April 19, 2022
Nothing to fault in this approachable guide to Jane Austen’s novels
June 26, 2022
this was lovely. Haley Stewart's take on presenting Jane as an example of a virtuous & faithful life-coach was beautiful. I see now how incredible Jane is as, not only an author, but as a person<3
December 18, 2023
This is a lovely book that feels like you’re talking to a friend about your favorite Jane Austen books!
February 20, 2022
“The finest novelist,” "moral philosopher,” and “sharp social commentator” were just three ways Haley Stewart described one of my favorite writers of all time, Jane Austen. Her added appellation though is the topic of this book: life coach.
In Jane Austen’s Genius Guide to Life, Stewart invited a reading of the Regency author’s life and novels through the lens of faith and philosophy. She wrote on how Austen employed her stories to provide insight and advice on what it looks like to have a strong moral compass, avoid vice, and live the virtuous life.
Austen’s father had served as rector for various Anglican parishes. Stewart quoted philosopher Dr. Cornel West here who said that made Austen a “preacher’s kid.” She compared Austen’s masterpieces to “snow globes.” Her novels have a small setting, limited characters, and rich stories that delve deeply into common moral dilemmas and universal truths.
Austen would have studied the classics, including Aristotle and Dante’s Divine Comedy, alongside her brothers and the students her father taught as well. A Catholic author, Stewart connected the seven cardinal sins and seven virtues to Austen’s heroes. She talked about how these philosophical works influenced Austen’s writing, with added insights literary critiques from G.K. Chesterton, C.S. Lewis, American philosopher Dr. Cornel West, and German Catholic philosopher Josef Pieper.
The research really took me back to graduate school. I still love finding new interpretations of old texts, so she held my interest from the first chapter. I enjoyed Stewart’s take on Austen as a life coach in general and tracked well with her thoughts on how the author employed the joy of reading a story to encourage virtuous living. She showed where characters like Elizabeth Bennett, Emma Woodhouse, Marianne Dashwood, and Catherine Morland let their vices cloud their judgment. They then pivoted and experienced moments of undeception. Elinor Dashwood, Fanny Price, and Anne Elliot showed readers what virtuous living looks like, especially how to endure in times of suffering.
I requested to read this advance reader copy because of my love of all things Jane Austen. I loved Stewart’s writing style. She used personal stories and humor, along with these alliterative moments in her writing. Before she delved into the Austen’s novels, she first gave a brief historical journey through Jane’s life. I enjoyed Stewart’s reflections on reading Austen’s novels going from her first reading of Pride & Prejudice on an audio book in the backseat of the car to arguing with a man about Austen’s greatness at a bookstore. We could be BFFs for sure.
I did think some areas didn't connect well as evidence of Jane Austen as life coach. The book at times read like a dissertation. That's not a bad thing, but I think she wrote more generally for those interested in Jane Austen and Catholic readers in particular. Stewart went back to Dante's works, for example, or talked about Our Lady, Mary, as a source for virtuous living at times that seemed like a secondary conversation. It left the path that had Austen novels as our guide. I did appreciate the novel synopses and information about the adaptations. And I do think this is a wonderful resource for those studying Austen for the first time or as a refresher.
Thank you, Netgalley and Ave Maria Press, for providing this free advanced reader e-copy of this book.
In Jane Austen’s Genius Guide to Life, Stewart invited a reading of the Regency author’s life and novels through the lens of faith and philosophy. She wrote on how Austen employed her stories to provide insight and advice on what it looks like to have a strong moral compass, avoid vice, and live the virtuous life.
Austen’s father had served as rector for various Anglican parishes. Stewart quoted philosopher Dr. Cornel West here who said that made Austen a “preacher’s kid.” She compared Austen’s masterpieces to “snow globes.” Her novels have a small setting, limited characters, and rich stories that delve deeply into common moral dilemmas and universal truths.
Austen would have studied the classics, including Aristotle and Dante’s Divine Comedy, alongside her brothers and the students her father taught as well. A Catholic author, Stewart connected the seven cardinal sins and seven virtues to Austen’s heroes. She talked about how these philosophical works influenced Austen’s writing, with added insights literary critiques from G.K. Chesterton, C.S. Lewis, American philosopher Dr. Cornel West, and German Catholic philosopher Josef Pieper.
The research really took me back to graduate school. I still love finding new interpretations of old texts, so she held my interest from the first chapter. I enjoyed Stewart’s take on Austen as a life coach in general and tracked well with her thoughts on how the author employed the joy of reading a story to encourage virtuous living. She showed where characters like Elizabeth Bennett, Emma Woodhouse, Marianne Dashwood, and Catherine Morland let their vices cloud their judgment. They then pivoted and experienced moments of undeception. Elinor Dashwood, Fanny Price, and Anne Elliot showed readers what virtuous living looks like, especially how to endure in times of suffering.
I requested to read this advance reader copy because of my love of all things Jane Austen. I loved Stewart’s writing style. She used personal stories and humor, along with these alliterative moments in her writing. Before she delved into the Austen’s novels, she first gave a brief historical journey through Jane’s life. I enjoyed Stewart’s reflections on reading Austen’s novels going from her first reading of Pride & Prejudice on an audio book in the backseat of the car to arguing with a man about Austen’s greatness at a bookstore. We could be BFFs for sure.
I did think some areas didn't connect well as evidence of Jane Austen as life coach. The book at times read like a dissertation. That's not a bad thing, but I think she wrote more generally for those interested in Jane Austen and Catholic readers in particular. Stewart went back to Dante's works, for example, or talked about Our Lady, Mary, as a source for virtuous living at times that seemed like a secondary conversation. It left the path that had Austen novels as our guide. I did appreciate the novel synopses and information about the adaptations. And I do think this is a wonderful resource for those studying Austen for the first time or as a refresher.
Thank you, Netgalley and Ave Maria Press, for providing this free advanced reader e-copy of this book.
March 28, 2022
Thank you, Netgalley and the author/publisher, for the opportunity to read and review an advanced reader's copy of this book. This in no way affects my review, all opinions are my own.
Wow, that was a nice take on the Jane Austen's books! First off, let me start with a disclaimer! I am not one of the Jane Austen fans. In fact, I had to switch from the ebook to the audiobook to even finish Pride and Prejudice. It is not that I don't like Jane Austen. I just find her writing very hard to read since it is the "old English." In addition, English is not my native language. So that is an additional obstacle. But anyway, I did read P&P and I did read Mansfield Park. I enjoyed the discussion we had in my book club group on Facebook. With that being said, here is my review of this particular Jane Austen-inspired book:
The author does an amazing job taking the characters in Jane Austen's books and using their character traits and actions to "teach a lesson" about Christian values. However, she does not come from a "high and mighty" perspective but rather illustrates how Jesus would react/act/respond. She includes virtues such as compassion, humility, prudence, empathy & selflessness, loving one another, not judging others but looking at our own shortcomings, etc. Three of my takeaways are: (i) that there are no perfect saints and sinners, we are/can be both; (2) if we know who we are in God, act accordingly, and stay true to ourselves, we can fend off the enemy's attacks and we don't act on a whim or buckle under the pressure of others. My favorite quote from the book is this: "We are given a temperament, but we have the opportunity to build our own characters." Saying "that is just who he/she is" or "that is just how I'm wired" shouldn't be an excuse for someone's actions. It is our choice to let the "beast" out and let our temperament take over or not.
Note for those who have not given their life to Jesus or think that this book is only for believers, this book is helpful for everyone regardless of their faith and where they are in their walk with Christ. The virtues and character traits the author describes based on Jane Austen's characters apply to everyone, Christians don't own the rights to them!
Also, if you have never read Jane Austen's book or, like me, only a few, this book is still for you (if you don't mind a few spoilers here or there). The author doesn't only include the development of the characters over time but also includes a short synopsis of the books at the end of the book.
Wow, that was a nice take on the Jane Austen's books! First off, let me start with a disclaimer! I am not one of the Jane Austen fans. In fact, I had to switch from the ebook to the audiobook to even finish Pride and Prejudice. It is not that I don't like Jane Austen. I just find her writing very hard to read since it is the "old English." In addition, English is not my native language. So that is an additional obstacle. But anyway, I did read P&P and I did read Mansfield Park. I enjoyed the discussion we had in my book club group on Facebook. With that being said, here is my review of this particular Jane Austen-inspired book:
The author does an amazing job taking the characters in Jane Austen's books and using their character traits and actions to "teach a lesson" about Christian values. However, she does not come from a "high and mighty" perspective but rather illustrates how Jesus would react/act/respond. She includes virtues such as compassion, humility, prudence, empathy & selflessness, loving one another, not judging others but looking at our own shortcomings, etc. Three of my takeaways are: (i) that there are no perfect saints and sinners, we are/can be both; (2) if we know who we are in God, act accordingly, and stay true to ourselves, we can fend off the enemy's attacks and we don't act on a whim or buckle under the pressure of others. My favorite quote from the book is this: "We are given a temperament, but we have the opportunity to build our own characters." Saying "that is just who he/she is" or "that is just how I'm wired" shouldn't be an excuse for someone's actions. It is our choice to let the "beast" out and let our temperament take over or not.
Note for those who have not given their life to Jesus or think that this book is only for believers, this book is helpful for everyone regardless of their faith and where they are in their walk with Christ. The virtues and character traits the author describes based on Jane Austen's characters apply to everyone, Christians don't own the rights to them!
Also, if you have never read Jane Austen's book or, like me, only a few, this book is still for you (if you don't mind a few spoilers here or there). The author doesn't only include the development of the characters over time but also includes a short synopsis of the books at the end of the book.
September 17, 2025
5 stars
"Teach us to understand the sinfulness of our own hearts, and bring to our knowledge every fault of temper and evil habit which we have indulged in to the discomfort of our fellow creatures and the danger of our own souls."
- Jane Austen, an original prayer
Goodness was this one delightful! Right here, right now, I'm going to recommend it to Jane Austen fans everywhere!
Unlike the last book I read inspired by Austen's wonderful works, The Murder of Mr. Wickham, I felt right off the bat reading Stewart's writing that she was very, very, VERY familiar with each of the novels, several film adaptations of them, and academic analysis of them. She even had a class in college all about Jane Austen's novels! (I would've totally taken that class!) Being able to sense in very obvious ways that the author knew Jane Austen and her work thoroughly made this so enjoyable to read. She wasn't just taking liberties with original storylines - in fact, I felt that Stewart helped me understand the characters, their personalities, their faults, and their growth through the plot of each novel more.
It also a relief that Stewart presented Austen not like many do today with their modern ideas and secular takes on her life and ideas, but as she was and how she actually thought. It astounds me sometimes how people put their beliefs upon Austen when her writing and storylines so obviously opposed many of people's ideas today! Stewart did not do this, not even when bringing in more Catholic elements, and she instead proved her theories on each of the characters/books and their coinciding vices/virtues from Jane herself and what she would have been inspired by in her day, along with sources who have extensively studied Austen and the themes behind her beloved characters.
A lot I had upon finishing this book was: "How would Jane Austen write me if I were a character in her book?" As someone who has striven to read all of her published novels (goal achieved!), throughout the years of reading them, I've come to ponder what Austen is teaching the reader and have begun to think of her as a life coach in a way. That's why this book was a perfect read for me, especially since it has made me consider whether I have grown in a way her heroes and heroines would or if I have been stagnant in my faults like her villains.
I will undoubtedly come back to this one, but for now, I will try to keep that thought of how she would perceive and write my story with me as I go through life.
"Teach us to understand the sinfulness of our own hearts, and bring to our knowledge every fault of temper and evil habit which we have indulged in to the discomfort of our fellow creatures and the danger of our own souls."
- Jane Austen, an original prayer
Goodness was this one delightful! Right here, right now, I'm going to recommend it to Jane Austen fans everywhere!
Unlike the last book I read inspired by Austen's wonderful works, The Murder of Mr. Wickham, I felt right off the bat reading Stewart's writing that she was very, very, VERY familiar with each of the novels, several film adaptations of them, and academic analysis of them. She even had a class in college all about Jane Austen's novels! (I would've totally taken that class!) Being able to sense in very obvious ways that the author knew Jane Austen and her work thoroughly made this so enjoyable to read. She wasn't just taking liberties with original storylines - in fact, I felt that Stewart helped me understand the characters, their personalities, their faults, and their growth through the plot of each novel more.
It also a relief that Stewart presented Austen not like many do today with their modern ideas and secular takes on her life and ideas, but as she was and how she actually thought. It astounds me sometimes how people put their beliefs upon Austen when her writing and storylines so obviously opposed many of people's ideas today! Stewart did not do this, not even when bringing in more Catholic elements, and she instead proved her theories on each of the characters/books and their coinciding vices/virtues from Jane herself and what she would have been inspired by in her day, along with sources who have extensively studied Austen and the themes behind her beloved characters.
A lot I had upon finishing this book was: "How would Jane Austen write me if I were a character in her book?" As someone who has striven to read all of her published novels (goal achieved!), throughout the years of reading them, I've come to ponder what Austen is teaching the reader and have begun to think of her as a life coach in a way. That's why this book was a perfect read for me, especially since it has made me consider whether I have grown in a way her heroes and heroines would or if I have been stagnant in my faults like her villains.
I will undoubtedly come back to this one, but for now, I will try to keep that thought of how she would perceive and write my story with me as I go through life.
March 5, 2022
What a lovely book to accompany Jane Austen’s novels. I am a big Austen fan and I loved this connection between her books and the Catholic faith, which is so important and dear to me.
Haley Stewart takes us on a walk through each of Austen’s six finished novels and and connects characters to each of the virtues we should all strive to be examples of. She then connects the story to an image of the Blessed Mother, reminding the reader of the many forms Our Lady takes and how she is there to help us grow in these virtues.
One does not need to be Catholic or to have read Austen’s novels to appreciate the writing in this book. At the back of the book is a summary of each novel and the main characters which help in understanding the chapters.
I recommend this book to fans of Jane Austen looking for a new take on her work. This will be a book I purchase a copy of to refer to when I read more of Austen’s work. Those who are Catholic will appreciate the connections, but one doesn’t have to be Catholic or religious to appreciate the connection to the virtues discussed in this book.
Thank you to Ave Maria Press, NetGalley, and Haley Stewart for the copy of this book in exchange for a review. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
Haley Stewart takes us on a walk through each of Austen’s six finished novels and and connects characters to each of the virtues we should all strive to be examples of. She then connects the story to an image of the Blessed Mother, reminding the reader of the many forms Our Lady takes and how she is there to help us grow in these virtues.
One does not need to be Catholic or to have read Austen’s novels to appreciate the writing in this book. At the back of the book is a summary of each novel and the main characters which help in understanding the chapters.
I recommend this book to fans of Jane Austen looking for a new take on her work. This will be a book I purchase a copy of to refer to when I read more of Austen’s work. Those who are Catholic will appreciate the connections, but one doesn’t have to be Catholic or religious to appreciate the connection to the virtues discussed in this book.
Thank you to Ave Maria Press, NetGalley, and Haley Stewart for the copy of this book in exchange for a review. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
March 25, 2022
Haley Stewart mentions a story by Flannery O'Connor, an old woman turns to goodness just before a serial murderer kills her. Jane Austen's heroines don't wait until they are dying to start striving for virtue! We can see in almost all of them, and in all of her books, the interior struggle between goodness and vice. The author brilliantly analyses each heroine and novel from a uniquely Catholic persective, and inspires readers to turn back to reading Jane Austen again.
Here are Elizabeth, witty and charming but prejudiced, wealthy Emma with every advantage, but selfish, and Marianne, over-emotional and lacking in temperance. They must each discover their flaws, and 'wake up' in the course of the novels. Fanny and Anne, on the other hand, exemplify certain values, but the heroes of Mansfield Park and Persuasion have to learn to be better people.
Jane Austen is one of my favourite writers, and it is fascinating to think of her as a 'life coach', and see these valuable insights into her work. Haley Stewart also discusses such eminent writers as C.S. Lewis and Alasdair MacIntyre to show how Jane Austen writes about the struggle to be good. This is a lovely book for any Jane Austen fan.
EDITION Paperback
ISBN 9781646801398
PRICE $16.95 (USD)
Here are Elizabeth, witty and charming but prejudiced, wealthy Emma with every advantage, but selfish, and Marianne, over-emotional and lacking in temperance. They must each discover their flaws, and 'wake up' in the course of the novels. Fanny and Anne, on the other hand, exemplify certain values, but the heroes of Mansfield Park and Persuasion have to learn to be better people.
Jane Austen is one of my favourite writers, and it is fascinating to think of her as a 'life coach', and see these valuable insights into her work. Haley Stewart also discusses such eminent writers as C.S. Lewis and Alasdair MacIntyre to show how Jane Austen writes about the struggle to be good. This is a lovely book for any Jane Austen fan.
EDITION Paperback
ISBN 9781646801398
PRICE $16.95 (USD)
January 13, 2024
I enjoyed reading about the author's life experiences and her literary and spiritual insights found in Jane Austen's books. At the end of each chapter, she also shared thoughts about Mary (the mother of Jesus) from a Catholic perspective, but they felt out of place to me from the rest of the book. I want to read all of Jane Austen's novels and watch their film adaptations this year after reading this!
p. 14 Jane Austen's novels are a guide for becoming good people. For the attentive reader, Austen isn't merely crafting with small things--she's exploring the biggest questions we can ask. The whole cosmos of virtue is on display in her little snow globes of unforgettable characters, daily life, and small communities. Austen has many life-changing lessons to teach us. And with her wit, humor, and unforgettable characters, she will make the experience positively delightful!
p.26 "We are not the sum of our weaknesses and failures; we are the sum of the Father's love for us." -St. John Paul II
p.48 "The more we get what we now call 'ourselves' out of the way and let Him take us over, the more truly ourselves we become." -C.S. Lewis
p.81-82 ...we too must find the friendships, books, and experiences that help us grow in good judgement and virtue. In St. Paul's Letter to the Philippians we're reminded, "Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." Can we ignore the clickbait and focus on the voices that are courageous, charitable, challenging, and wise? If we spend our energy and attention on these things with an attitude of humility and are eager to learn, we, like Catherine, will mature into people who can read the world well and do what is right.
Take some time to consider what influences you. What are you reading? What voices are you informed by? Do you need to find other "books"? Do you need to become a better "reader"?
p.102 "What you must find out is how God wants you to spend your love...You have to live the life you were born to live." -The Sound of Music
p.107 "To love another person is to see the face of God." -Les Miserables
p. 14 Jane Austen's novels are a guide for becoming good people. For the attentive reader, Austen isn't merely crafting with small things--she's exploring the biggest questions we can ask. The whole cosmos of virtue is on display in her little snow globes of unforgettable characters, daily life, and small communities. Austen has many life-changing lessons to teach us. And with her wit, humor, and unforgettable characters, she will make the experience positively delightful!
p.26 "We are not the sum of our weaknesses and failures; we are the sum of the Father's love for us." -St. John Paul II
p.48 "The more we get what we now call 'ourselves' out of the way and let Him take us over, the more truly ourselves we become." -C.S. Lewis
p.81-82 ...we too must find the friendships, books, and experiences that help us grow in good judgement and virtue. In St. Paul's Letter to the Philippians we're reminded, "Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." Can we ignore the clickbait and focus on the voices that are courageous, charitable, challenging, and wise? If we spend our energy and attention on these things with an attitude of humility and are eager to learn, we, like Catherine, will mature into people who can read the world well and do what is right.
Take some time to consider what influences you. What are you reading? What voices are you informed by? Do you need to find other "books"? Do you need to become a better "reader"?
p.102 "What you must find out is how God wants you to spend your love...You have to live the life you were born to live." -The Sound of Music
p.107 "To love another person is to see the face of God." -Les Miserables
February 10, 2022
Skip and leap through Austen’s merry worlds of manners and matchmaking with Haley Stewart as your guide while she seamlessly blends the critical commentary you don’t want to wade through on your own, hilarious real-life anecdotes, and insightful literary observations. It’s the senior seminar on Austen you wanted to take but couldn’t fit in your schedule, blended with the Catholic gloss that helps incorporate it into your day-to-day grownup life. (Go ahead and take a minute to bask in the wisdom of Stewart’s assertion, “Jane Austen’s stories are a vehicle of truth about not only growing in virtue and ideal romance but also the purpose of vocation and our relationship with God.”) You’ll leave Stewart’s book with the dual ambitions to be better read — and, more importantly, committed to a more virtuous life.
February 16, 2022
Imagining Austen as a life coach, author Haley Stewart uses each of Austen's six novels and demonstrates the work in growing in different virtues each provides. Having already read Austen's works will likely help you better understand Stewart's arguments, and examples; she does provide enough background about the stories that even an Austen novice could read and enjoy this book. There are also two appendixes which provide even more information about characters and plot points.
The idea of growing in virtue has its roots in Christianity, but Stewart also does very good job here making the information approachable and the lessons universal. I would recommend this book to anyone interesting in looking deeper in beloved literature to see what it may have to teach you about living a fuller life.
I was provided an early copy by #netgallery in return for my honest review.
The idea of growing in virtue has its roots in Christianity, but Stewart also does very good job here making the information approachable and the lessons universal. I would recommend this book to anyone interesting in looking deeper in beloved literature to see what it may have to teach you about living a fuller life.
I was provided an early copy by #netgallery in return for my honest review.
July 18, 2022
Really enjoyed this lovely book. So many insights about Austen’s characters and how their personalities/struggles can guide our own journey in life.
The love for Mr. Knightley in the first chapter was an instant A+ from me. She also completely gets Anne Elliot’s quiet strength: “Despite her family’s vices and foolishness, despite her friend’s bad judgment, despite the disappointments of the past and her pain in the present, Anne Elliot navigates the world with compassion and forgiveness. She does not give up or allow herself to be warped and diminished. Anne shows us how to endure patiently. But she also demonstrates how fortitude is not passive. Although she is incredibly forgiving and charitable, Anne is no doormat. She is willing to sacrifice for others, but she will not do what she believes is wrong to please others.“
The love for Mr. Knightley in the first chapter was an instant A+ from me. She also completely gets Anne Elliot’s quiet strength: “Despite her family’s vices and foolishness, despite her friend’s bad judgment, despite the disappointments of the past and her pain in the present, Anne Elliot navigates the world with compassion and forgiveness. She does not give up or allow herself to be warped and diminished. Anne shows us how to endure patiently. But she also demonstrates how fortitude is not passive. Although she is incredibly forgiving and charitable, Anne is no doormat. She is willing to sacrifice for others, but she will not do what she believes is wrong to please others.“
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