We’re back to discuss the brand new film adaptation of Sense and Sensibility, starring Daisy Edgar-Jones and Esme Creed-Miles. We chat about what we liked, what we hated, what we loved, and what we want out of all Austen adaptations. You don’t need to have seen the film to enjoy our conversation, but we do discuss specific script choices and other “spoiler-ish” topics. We can’t wait to hear what you thought of the film and how you’re feeling about the upcoming Pride and Prejudice series.
We’ve missed you, readers! Stay tuned for more announcements coming your way by subscribing to our newsletter, and let us know you listened to the episode by leaving a quick podcast review.
Hey there, readers! We are thrilled to be back on the podcast today, discussing a hilarious, heartbreaking, hopeful novel by one of our favorite authors. As we anticipate the US release of the new Sense and Sensibility film adaptation, we wanted to get together for a book-club-style chat about what treasures this classic work holds for modern audiences. What is Austen saying about sense and sensibility? Why is it so easy to relate to one, or both, sisters? How much money does it take to buy happiness? We explore all of these questions, and more, in a full length, traditional Novel Pairings episode—now available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.
In addition to our book discussion, we share six contemporary pairings that match Sense and Sensibility in themes of sisterhood, marriage, class, second attachments, and home renovation. We also drop a few hints about more Novel Pairings conversations to come, including a thorough debrief on both the 1995 and 2026 film adaptations (and more!).
For our final episode of Novel Pairings, we opened up the mailbag to answer your thoughtful listener questions. From reflections on our favorite classics to behind-the-scenes stories, we’re sharing a lot today! And celebrating the journey we’ve shared with all of you. We’ll also be offering some closing thoughts on what this podcast has meant to us, what we’ve learned along the way, and what comes next for each of us.
This is our final season with Novel Pairings, but we are saving all of our episodes right here for you to return to, plus we’re opening a shop for our exclusive classes and recap series. To learn more about our storefront and to get all new announcements, make sure you are following @novelpairingspod on Instagram and subscribed to novelpairings.substack.com.
Get ready to load your summer totes with compelling reads, both new and old! We’re sharing our anticipated summer releases on today’s episode, carefully curated from a long list of captivating titles to shake up your TBR. As always, we’ve included some perfectly paired backlist favorites to enjoy while you wait for the buzzy new books.
Today, we explore an exciting mix of poignant literary fiction, immersive historical narratives, richly layered contemporary stories, and even a touch of magical realism to spark your imagination. You’ll find everything from heartfelt memoirs threaded with nostalgia to sharp, insightful critiques of today’s world, alongside enchanting tales perfect for reading all season long.
This is our final season with Novel Pairings, but we are saving all of our episodes right here for you to return to, plus we’re opening a shop for our exclusive classes and recap series. Stay tuned. To learn when our shop opens up and to get all new announcements, make sure you are following @novelpairingspod on Instagram and subscribed to novelpairings.substack.com.
Find us individually and continue to read with each of us here:
We’re wrapping up our Emma readalong with final reflections on rereading, standout themes, and Austen’s legacy. We also chat about how we’re marking the momentous occasion of Jane Austen’s 250th anniversary and the ways this milestone is resonating with us as readers.
This is our final season with Novel Pairings, but we are saving all of our episodes right here for you to return to, plus we’re opening a shop for our exclusive classes and recap series. Stay tuned. To learn when our shop opens up and to get all new announcements, make sure you are following @novelpairingspod on Instagram and subscribed to novelpairings.substack.com.
In this episode, we reach the culmination of Jane Austen’s Emma, where secrets are revealed, relationships evolve, and characters face pivotal choices that will shape their futures. We discuss shifting affections, unexpected engagements, and the web of emotions that bind the residents of Highbury together. We will conclude our Emma series with a finale reflection episode in a few weeks to give you a chance to catch up on recaps.
This is our final season with Novel Pairings, but we are saving all of our episodes right here for you to return to, plus we’re opening a shop for our exclusive classes and recap series. Stay tuned.
In this episode, we’re unpacking so many juicy moments—from Frank Churchill’s restless return to Highbury and the long-awaited ball at the Crown Inn to Harriet’s shocking misadventure and Mr. Knightley’s heroic turn on the dance floor. We’ll explore Emma’s ever-active imagination, Mrs. Elton’s relentless meddling, and some subtle but oh-so-important moments between Emma and Mr. Knightley.
Plus, we’ll chat about strawberry-picking at Donwell Abbey, and all the little details that make this part of the novel so rich and entertaining.
As a reminder, we’ve historically shared these “big book readalong” recap series in our patreon community, but to celebrate five years of podcasting, we’re sharing it on the public feed! We’re so excited to have all of you reading with us. To grab our reading schedule, go to our instagram page @novelpairingspod for our pinned post or subscribe to our free weekly substack newsletter where you’ll get reminders and announcements at novelpairings.substack.com.
This is our final season with Novel Pairings, but we are saving all of our episodes right here for you to return to, plus we’re opening a shop for our exclusive classes and recap series. Stay tuned.
In this episode, we’re savoring the drama and intrigue of Emma, Volume Two, Chapters 9 through 18. The aftermath of the Cole’s party has Emma rehashing every social triumph and misstep, from her jealousy over Jane Fairfax’s piano skills to her playful gossip with Frank Churchill about the mysterious pianoforte.
Meanwhile, Mrs. Elton makes her grand entrance into Highbury society, leaving Emma unimpressed but the rest of the town charmed. Between witty banter, romantic musings, and subtle moments of humor (looking at you, Mr. Knightley), these chapters are packed with Austen’s signature blend of sharp social commentary and entertaining drama.
Listen wherever you get your podcasts.
As a reminder, we’ve historically shared these “big book readalong” recap series in our patreon community, but to celebrate five years of podcasting, we’re sharing it on the public feed! We’re so excited to have all of you reading with us. To grab our reading schedule, go to our instagram page @novelpairingspod for our pinned post or subscribe to our free weekly substack newsletter where you’ll get reminders and announcements.
In this recap, we’re discussing Volume Two, Chapters 1-8 of Emma by Jane Austen.
In this episode, we’ll explore the arrival of some intriguing new characters to Highbury that shake up Emma’s carefully curated social circle. We’ll also explore Emma’s complex relationships, including her aversion to a certain reserved newcomer and her budding friendship with a charming gentleman. Plus, we’ll uncover how Emma’s imagination runs wild with romantic theories that may or may not have any basis in reality.
As a reminder, we’ve historically shared these “big book readalong” recap series in our patreon community, but to celebrate five years of podcasting, we’re sharing it on the public feed! We’re so excited to have all of you reading with us. To grab our reading schedule, go to our instagram page @novelpairingspod for our pinned post or subscribe to our free weekly substack newsletter where you’ll get reminders and announcements.
In this recap, we’re diving into Emma by Jane Austen — covering Volume One, Chapters 10–18.
Emma Woodhouse is back at it — charming, meddling, and trying to navigate Highbury’s tricky social scene. This time, she’s determined to set Harriet up with Mr. Elton… but, surprise, things don’t exactly go as planned. From awkward visits to the vicarage to a snowstorm-fueled carriage ride that takes an unexpected turn, Emma’s confidence in her matchmaking skills starts to crumble.
We’ll also unpack the iconic moment when Emma explains why she’s still single — and why finding someone who meets her high standards might be harder than she thought. Emma’s missteps are about to catch up with her in the most entertaining way.
As a reminder, we’ve historically shared these “big book readalong” recap series in our patreon community, but to celebrate five years of podcasting, we’re sharing it on the public feed! We’re so excited to have all of you reading with us. To grab our reading schedule, go to our instagram page @novelpairingspod for our pinned post or subscribe to our free weekly substack newsletter where you’ll get reminders and announcements.
