Thanks Netgalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review. My honest opinion is that there are some very valid points in this book but I couldn't get on with the delivery and how it was sold as life changing but then proceeded to preach quite a bit. I was put off by it feeling quite judgemental and closed minded in places. I think authors can speak to their own experience but have to be careful not to speak for other women. I felt this book was not intended for me but those that align with more of the authors views may enjoy it.

Good read for anyone looking to taking better care of themselves. The author is obviously well-versed in the topic and writes about it in an easy to read and interesting fashion.

Muse by Dr. Amanda Hanson, a clinical psychologist, is empowering from the start! With a focus on women who struggle with knowing, loving, and accepting themselves, it opens hearts and minds to self worth.

I’m not a huge self help reader, but this one stood out and really allowed me to connect in ways that were unexpected. The fact that it was not solely “do this” or “do that”, but sharing her own experiences, journey, and things that can help shift mindsets made it relatable.
Now, the only thing that stuck out was that there was a lot of focus on the self-worth and value from the physical perspective and inward. This is a great topic for many women to explore, but I wasn’t expecting this. I thought it was going to be more about self muses from a different perspective. But it all culminates to the same thing so it makes sense. While this may not be for me, it is definitely worth it and helpful for those who may be suffering with this particular problem.

If you’re looking for a self help book to remove the negative perspective of aging and replace it with loving your aging journey, then this is for you! Enjoy the process!

Audiobook review section:
Dr. Amanda Hanson’s audiobook version brings the book to life on a whole other level. The book alone was very empowering and pulled at the heartstrings, but adding in her emotion, perspective, and her essence takes things to a whole other level. It didn’t feel too preachy. But instead supportive and compassionate. Thank you! I will continue to work on my journey.

*This was an honest review for a complimentary copy of Muse from Dr. Amanda Hanson via NetGalley

*The Muse* is a refreshing and empowering exploration of aging and sexuality. Rather than fearing the passage of time, the book flips the script, celebrating the freedom and confidence that come with embracing one's evolving self. Its honest portrayal of the beauty and complexity of growing older is both uplifting and thought-provoking. A powerful reminder that aging doesn't diminish our worth or desires, but rather enhances them.

Dr. Amanda Hanson's Muse: The Magnetism of Women Who Stop Abandoning Themselves is supposed to be a transformative and inspiring book that encourages women to reclaim their true selves and embrace their inherent power. Unfortunately, that does not line up with the book I just read.




The book does dive into the historical and societal structures that have kept women confined to roles defined by patriarchal norms. Dr. Hanson challenges these norms and offers practical rituals and practices to help women reconnect with their inner Muse and build authentic and fulfilling lives.

Where I would have really dissected how to overcome the limitations the patriarchy has placed on women and how to combat it for future women, Dr. Hanson goes on tangents about not putting poisons in our body and how Western medicine was created by men, therefore it's harmful to women.

I understand her sentiment that "our bodies know best". However, from personal experience, that is not always the case. Dr. Hanson proudly states that her clients go off all their anti-depressants and anxiety meds when they realize their emotions are real and valid. This may be true in some cases, many mental health conditions can be maintained with consistent therapy and techniques, however, science says that this isn't always the case.

Dr. Hanson conveniently only quotes science when it's convenient for her argument. She then encourages the reader to self-reflect and listen to your body's inner compass. But then continues on with the assumption we came to her conclusion. It's like it's inconceivable to her that someone can look at the same evidence and come up with a different opinion than hers. That was when I lost all respect.

While there are some good exercises in the book like the mirror reflections and rewording belief structures. It feels more like a soapbox than a self-help. I would have liked it much better if there was less about how she cured her son's deadly allergies by going to some self-trained herbalist and more thorough exercises on challenging unhealthy ideologies.

Now if you are just entering the phase in your life when you are uncomfortable with the concept of aging and want to begin challenging some patriarchal beliefs. This may be an option, but personally, there are better options out there if you don't want to be preached to.