Become a Member for as little as $4/mo and enjoy unlimited reading of TSLL blog.
Discover books about bookshops, being ordinary as a worthy pursuit, strengthening your financial forever, a quilting plot of intrigue and a cookbook to take you through the seasons from an award-winning author and chef. Also, three new movies – one in France, one in Britain, and the other set here in the States. Clothing for a stylish fall, with one gorgeous autumnal (and timeless) sweater to make you swoon. All of that, and still more.
Books
—Autumn: The Story of a Season by Kate Mosse
The hints of autumn were in the air this week, and so the new book from Kate Mosse, a British writer and gardener, seems the perfect read. In Autumn: The Story of a Season, Mosse celebrates the season of shifting light and crisp mornings . . . Starting in her own garden, Kate leads us out to the misty Fishbourne marshes of her childhood, with their vast skies and wading birds, and into ancient yew forests/ steeped in myth and mystery. We travel across the harvest fields, follow the river bends of the Ouse and the Lavant, and join the crowds at Lewes on Bonfire Night, where the air crackles with flame and torchlight.”
To be released in the UK on September 10th (available through Blackwells)
—The Courage to Be Ordinary: Discover Your Surprising Superpower for a Thriving Life by Ichiro Kishimi
I am quite looking forward to this book (released in June), having read the author’s previous two books, the first one inspiring this now-favorite podcast episode (#301). In The Courage to Be Ordinary, “psychologist and philosopher Ichiro Kishimi breaks down the real reasons we subject ourselves to the crushing expectations of others, as well as a new way to thrive by accessing your inner compass and choosing a life that’s truly your own.
“Drawing deeply from Japanese wisdom, [aims to] free you from the endless cycle of competition, boost your confidence, and empower you to live a happy life. Rejecting both an endless striving to be special and a cynical resignation to remain the same, Kishimi instead offers us a revolutionary third path, unlocking the full benefits of radical acceptance and authenticity. Readers will discover: how to connect with your internal compass for true confidence in life, work, and relationships; how birth order and parental influence affects your life long after you leave the home; and the dangers of the fragile superiority behind the need to be special.”
—The Forever Paycheck: The New Retirement Strategy to Spend More, Worry Less, and Never Run Out of Money by Jean Chatzky
No matter how close or far away retirement may be for any one of us, knowing we are prepared as well as can live fully when we arrive is a peace of mind we give ourselves. We do this by educating ourselves and looking to experts in the world of finance that we trust. I trust Jean Chatzky. Having read many of her books and gifted them as well to graduates as well as my niece, Chatzky’s new book, The Forever Paycheck, looks to be yet another helpful resource.
“With the power of a Forever Paycheck comes a simple, revelatory truth: you can spend more, and do more, than you think you can. The data shows that people entering retirement often can’t bring themselves to spend. But when their money comes as a steady monthly paycheck, they feel much more confident in using it to live life to the fullest. Many find they can spend double with no risk of running out. New research shows that a Forever Paycheck is even associated with better health, lower chances of disability, and a substantially longer lifespan.
“The Forever Paycheck will teach you: Whether it’s better to help your adult kids now or leave them an inheritance later; how to turn your assets (retirement account balances) into the income that you need; how to structure your portfolio so you can spend more—often double what you thought—no matter how much you start with; and, when is the right time to take Social Security for you depending on your marital status, work history, age and more.”
My copy has been preordered, and I look forward to diving in when it arrives.
—Lords of Serendipity: A Novel by Randy Boyagoda
From a celebrated literary talent hailing from Canada comes a book inspired by current events: Lords of Serendipity, a satirical novel already topping lists of recently released fiction.
“Set between contemporary Sri Lanka and the United States, Lords of Serendipity is a wry, moving, and sharply observed story about how rich and poor alike try to get ahead by going to university. It’s about dreams and ambition meeting corruption and hypocrisy. It’s about what parents are willing to do for their children, and about what strivers and hustlers are willing to do when they meet gatekeepers.” Learn more about the plot here.
To be released on September 8th
—Stitched: A Novel by Eli McCann
Now this looks like an absolutely fun and delightful read. Stitched goes ‘behind the seams’ 😉 with Betty Lou Dearden to lead the way. Betty “has been a member of the Ogden Quilters Association for more than twenty years when it is announced that the biggest quilting competition in the country is coming to Utah. With the clock ticking and a chance to finally beat their long-time rival quilting circle, the women welcome two young gay men to their group as they bicker their way to an award-worthy entry. With disarming humor and extraordinary heart, Eli McCann takes readers deep into the cozy but cutthroat world of competitive quilting and the sometimes-messy friendships that shape our lives.”
To be released on September 8th
British Finds
—Marble Hall Murders, PBS Masterpiece
Finally, after two years, the third book in Anthony Horowitz’s series with Susan Ryeland, the amateur sleuth taking us through the case, Marble Hall Murders premieres this Sunday. Having read the book as soon as it was released, I may know the plot and who did it, but I will still watch because who doesn’t want to see Tony award winning actress (that is part of the reason there was a delay in filming – she was on stage on Broadway last year, and no less, giving a performance to win her the Lead Actress award at the 2026 Tonys), Lesley Manville?
—Marlow Murder Club, season 3, PBS Masterpiece
And premiering just before Marble Hall Murders is yet another series I know many, including myself, have been eager to watch: the Marlow Murder Club, created by Robert Thorogood. Inspired by the book series, season 3, there will be six episodes, two episodes per crime, and only one is a crime that was shared in the written series. The 2nd and 3rd crimes (episodes 3-6) are newly created for television, just as they did last year for a few of the episodes. I love this because even if you have read the books (there are currently five), these are brand new to everyone. Have a look at the trailer below and tune in this Sunday on PBS Masterpiece at 8 pm.
—Receipts from the Bookshop: A Bookseller’s Year in an English Seaside Town by Katie Clapham
Already released in her home country, England, Katie Clapham’s new book is a memoir similar to that of Shaun Bythell’s in that we get to step inside the daily life of a bookshop store owner, and learn all about the many characters that step inside. This includes pups as well as the people. 🙂 My copy is preordered, and I look forward to reading it for leisure, relaxing fun at the end of a workday to unwind the mind.
To be released September 8th
Based on novelist Virginia Woolf’s book of the same name, Night & Day takes us to London in 1910. “A passionate astronomer does everything she can to avoid romantic love and marriage. Her bold challenge to Edwardian patriarchy is set against the suffragette movement and advances in science and technology.” Have a look at the trailer below and look for it in theaters today. Having not read the novel, I look forward to watching the film.
Cookbooks
—Kitchening: Day-to-Day Good Food, Come Rain or Shine by Jeremy Lee
I love a good seasonal cookbook, and if Kitchening from British cook and author is anything like his previous book simply titled Cooking that was award-winning, we are in for a treat.
In Kitchening, “Jeremy shows you how to make the most of local produce while finding joy in the simple act of being in the kitchen . . . He spotlights the finest offerings from each month of the year. There are spring classics like leeks vinaigrette and baked asparagus with parmesan; summer delights such as pickled mackerel with gooseberries or quail with artichokes and broad beans; autumn feasts like spiced chickpeas with a pot of polenta; and practical tips like how to joint and preserve a goose for a variety of winter dishes. [Along with] clever advice on how to use a glut of produce, including compotes and preserves, and suggestions for swapping ingredients to make recipes work throughout the year, Kitchening is a beautifully packaged collection of timeless recipes, charming anecdotes and culinary wisdom.”
To be released on September 10th in the UK (available from Blackwells)
Films
Adam Sandler’s daughter is all grown up and already making a respectable name for herself on screen. In this new film, Don’t Say Good Luck, which premiered just this past August, we see Sunny Sandler’s character, Sophie Birenbaum, preparing for “the spotlight as the lead in her high school musical — until suddenly she’s living with even more drama at home than on the stage.” Have a look at the trailer below.
Francophile Finds
—Dix Pour Cent/Call My Agent, Netflix
Finally, the film we’ve been waiting for (for fans of the internationally loved French comedy series of the same name) will be here next Thursday! Just this past August, the series was chosen as the Petit Plaisir, and the film was mentioned. I have a feeling, especially now, based on seeing the trailer, that we are in for a hilariously good time.
Shopping
—&Daughter Ava Argyle Crewneck sweater, four colors available
An investment, yes, but a sweater you will have for a good long time. As we explored in Part Trois of the Lifetime Wardrobe signature style series, the tips for finding quality sweaters and caring for them so that they will last and look great are simple. We just need to know what to do, and now we do!
Preorder today, will ship September 14th
—Aimé London’s Elisa Wool Jacket, navy pinstripe
One more investment item: if you have an oversized pinstripe (subtle dark navy) blazer on your wardrobe list, this one will not disappoint. If I had the cash, I would scoop it up immédiatement! (My guest bedroom completion is my priority when it comes to projects at the moment, and we are making progress! More on that below.) Aimé blazer is made with 100% wool woven in Scotland.
—Banana Republic Factory, 50-70% sale on everything
The sales are on! And that includes Banana Republic Factory. I have shopped a few items below, but there are, of course, many, many, many more items to pursue.
SHOP THE SALE:
—Boden’s Maeve Check Midi Shirt Dress, Green, Navy and Red Check
Get ready for autumn and winter, and perhaps the holidays with this checked dress from Boden. Use coupon RNMV to save 10%.
—Evereve’s Bobi Tie Waist Utility Shirt
A versatile, everyday shirt that can be dressed up or down. Loving the rolled-up sleeves and tailored fit, custom to the body who wears it.
—The Frankie Shop’s Althea Pleated Trousers, light grey
Oversized is en vogue at the moment, and depending upon your style and physique, it can be quite flattering when paired well for proportions. This neutral hued trouser could easily pair with many different tops, shoes and wardrobe ensemble ideas.
—Garden Heir, Labor Day Sale
Gardeners! If you have had your eye on something from Garden Heir, seize the moment and scoop it up! Use the coupon code LABOR to save 15% off everything. This is the site where I found my garden clogs that I am loving! (made in Italy), and this Sneeboer Royal Dutch push hoe has been on my shopping list for months. Should I? Hmmm, maybe! So nice to have such a tool in the garden for removing weeds, especially in tight spaces.
—J.Crew, 40% off your purchase
Another sale of note to pick up those layering items, jeans, trousers or sweaters to fill in the gaps! I have shopped a few items below. No coupon necessary.
SHOP THE SALE:
—Monthly Intentions notepad, 15% for Premier members
On September 1st, I added a new TSLL Notepad to the Shop, and this one includes one of the seasonal illustrations you will find in Savoring the Sojourn. The Autumnal illustration by Sarah Lœcker (be sure to watch September’s A Cuppa Moments, as I share the original paintings and walk you through all of the details that are included in each, as well as the inspiration for them) is in the background on the Monthly Intentions notepad.
A design that I began using myself over a year ago, I wanted to offer this notepad to you. With the intention of encouraging us to write both project-focused objectives as well as ‘being’ objectives (i.e., take time each day to not ‘do’ anything, or take one full day off each week to enjoy my own company), it has helped me to remember all that I have done and deeply enjoyed, which nourished me by month’s end. After all, while a month may not seem that long, it is amazing how by the time we reach the end of a month, we do forget all that has transpired. My hope is that this notepad will deepen your appreciation as well as help you find balance and not be as harried by constantly doing, but rather focus on quality everydays and the journey through the month.
The supply is limited. I will not be restocking once this first batch is sold out, so scoop up your notepad (50 pages, magnet on the back) soon. And if you are a Premier member, the coupon code to save 15% is shared on the A Cuppa Moments for this month – find it here.)
As I was walking out of yoga class earlier this week, I spied this tall, multi-bloom sunflower planted next to a house painted the most perfect green hue, as if to intentionally complement the flower and not the other way around. Gorgeous, engrossing, and when a fellow yogi saw me snapping a photo, she gave me a quizzical look until I explained. I still am not sure she understood why I was taking a photo of it, but there you have it: noticing the everyday beauty in our day, even if others don’t quite understand the joy of doing so (yet).
September begins, and all of a sudden, it feels as though summer is saying adieu. Here in Bend, it rained nearly all afternoon on Wednesday, and it is expected to rain again all this weekend. Beyond happy I am about that, and so, the automatic sprinklers have been seasonally reduced in their allotted time.
I am happy to report to all of you who preordered paperbacks that they are now en route to Bend, and as soon as they arrive (they are expected by Tuesday), I will take one day to package them up and quickly send them your way. They should arrive in 3-5 business days. I will keep sharing updates on my IG Stories (@thesimplyluxuriouslife). Thank you for your patience, and thank you to all the readers who have received their copy and begun sharing photos, either by sending them directly to me via email, DMing me on IG, or posting on IG. I am saving them all and will be putting together a post to share later this autumn.
This week has been a busy one here on the blog, and just yesterday, the full reveal post of the Butler’s Pantry was shared. This was such a fun room to transform because, of all the rooms, except the kitchen, it improved the ease of my days the most. I explain why in the post, and I also want to thank everyone who has stopped by so far and taken the tour, shared what caught their eye, and offered congratulations.
And an update on the guest bedroom. The bed frame(s) will arrive next week. I was in talks with the upholsterer this week and am ordering the fabric, and hopefully the bed will be done by mid-October. Now, I have to get the carpet sorted and purchased so that it can be installed, and just like that, a lot of progress has taken place. Perhaps that December deadline I had hoped to meet for completing this project will happen. Wahoo!
I hope this week has gone well for you, whether you are stepping back into a new or the regular routine after summer’s respite, or are simply just keeping on keeping on. 🙂 Wishing you a wonderful upcoming long weekend if you are in the States, and if the weekend is a regular weekend, may it be just as sweet in its enjoyment and rejuvenation. Until Sunday, bonne journée.
~This new restaurant in Paris (just opened in June) near the Palais Royal looks absolutely divine in both its aesthetic appeal and its menu. [Do It In Paris]
~Looking to travel? Why not save on some sweet, comfortable seats from a favorite airline of TSLL – British Airways’ autumn sale is now on! Now through September 29th
~I think TSLL readers were already privy to this ‘trend,’ as it is about decorating a home that is signature to our life, not what will be praised on social media. But let’s explore it anyway 😉 – the ‘Collected Over Time’ Look. [Real Simple]
~Thank you Véronique, a member of TSLL community who brought to my attention that the author of the book that inspired this week’s episode of the podcast, Dr. Wendy Suzuki, now has a Masterclass with two other brain experts. Learn more about Brain Health, available now on Masterclass.
~A great pair of lists to ponder – The mental habits we practice most [Zen Habits]
~Paris in September – what’s happening! [Hip Paris]
~Speaking of Paris, Emily in Paris‘ finale season (6) looks like it will be full of fun, fashion and fabulousness. [Frenchly]
~Perhaps the best literary mystery writer (who lives in England), you’ve never heard of. I enjoyed this article, especially learning about the author’s choice not to follow the trope of the detective that has their own personal problems to deal with. Thank you! [NYTimes, gift link]
~Cheese lovers! Save this article – a cheese tour from Brussels to Herve (self-guided), this European cheese route lets you bike or drive to dairy shops and cheddar-making monasteries. [Afar]
~In homage to Gloria Steinem. Thank you for being a beckon. [Time]
~Remembering Dolly Parton in her own words. What she claimed as her own symbol most definitely brought a smile. [W Magazine]
~Love this: Jacques Pépin’s scrambled eggs are so good he serves them at parties. Can I attend? I would love to have them. 🙂 [Food & Wine]
~One more recipe that immediately prompted my appetite to urge me to bake it – a peach cobbler loaf – from Smitten Kitchen.
~Let’s go to Dublin for the Home Tour of the Week, and a video tour at that. And the pantry in this home is FULL of invitation and beauty. Enjoy being inspired. (Rebecca Roe is the creative director of Hedgeroe Home.)
~Explore last week’s edition of This & That: August 28th
Even before the ‘BIG’ kickoff of the fall entertainment season begins, there are oodles of finds from books, films, and gorgeous autumn collections for the wardrobe. A new French film takes us back to a figure in French history who is complex, yet played a powerful role in the country’s history. A favorite British mystery series returns, a fun rom-com set in Britain premieres, and there are books about money, walking about in London, how to love and care for our dogs well so that they thrive, and the clothes… goodness! Get ready to get cozy and look ever so stylish while you do so. Still, there is more!
~Please note: TSLL is supported by you, readers who take the time to stop by (merci!), peruse, and sometimes welcome into your life the mentioned and recommended finds. Affiliate links are present in this post and may earn commissions for TSLL when you make a purchase. View TSLL’s full Privacy Policy here.
