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Oh goodness, do we have oodles of treasures and finds this week! Twenty-seven plus the links! With two new French films, and a favorite from the past, books on all sorts of French topics, newly released and soon to be released, a new adaptation, the first contemporary one of a long-loved fictional French detective, timeless clothing finds, decor details to add subtle, yet signature statements, a new book for antique lovers from a friend of TSLL and I did slip in one British premiere you can’t miss. Still, so much more! Let’s get started perusing!
Books
—The Art of Antiquing in France: Flea Markets – Brocantes – Antique Shops by Sharon Santoni
Yep, you read that correctly! Sharon Santoni has a new book coming out, and while it is being released in 2026 (March 24th to be precise), it is never too early to preorder.
In The Art of Antiquing in France, Sharon “offers invaluable insight on finding and collecting French antiques—from Provençal quilted boutis to floral transferware to landscape paintings—which exude a singular charm and bring cachet to the home. Through aspirational photographs, interviews with specialized dealers, and the savoir faire of a local, her comprehensive guide includes well-researched descriptions of the most popular French collectibles, including tableware, silverware, paintings, textiles, rugs and tapestries, jewelry, books and illustrations, furniture, chandeliers and mirrors, and architectural and garden details.”
Talk about a reference, a resource, a gem to forever have to grab, learn from and bring with you on your next French treasure hunt, readers will also receive “advice on where to shop—from professional déballages to live auctions, and from flea markets to annual fairs—along with Sharon’s favorite antique dealers throughout France, a glossary of terms, a buyer’s guide to successful antiquing with useful phrases, and a detailed index.”
—It Girl: The Life and Legacy of Jane Birkin by Marisa Meltzer
With all of the hype about the recent auction of the original Birkin earlier this year, Jane Birkin has been on the minds of many, and with her death two years ago, new and long-time fans and adorers of this effortlessly chic and uber talented and determined French woman soon will have a biography to read.
Being released on October 7th, bestselling author Marisa Meltzer brings us It Girl: The Life and Legacy of Jane Birkin. “It Girl paints a vivid portrait of Birkin and her profound legacy, from her early years in 1960s London to her rise as a beloved celebrity in France, detailing personal challenges, her relationships with creative powerhouses, and the duality of her public and private selves. Based on interviews and deep archival research, Meltzer reveals the nuances of Birkin’s character: her famously tempestuous romantic relationships, life with her three famous daughters, and the creative energy that drove her. It Girl tells the story of her indelible impact on femininity and style, and how what we think of as French girl style grew from her.”
If you are a TOP Tier Member, I will be sharing a review of the book in October’s A Cuppa Moments as an advanced copy is on its way and I look forward to reading it.
—La Petite espionne des Nymphéas by Béatrice Fontanel, and illustrated by Alexandra Huard
If you have children, young nieces and nephews, grandchildren, or know any child who would delight in learning and exploring art and the nature where Monet was inspired, then this is a book to pick up. I have to thank Bianca, a reader of TSLL for quite some time who introduced me to this book. It is absolutely beautiful from what I can see, and while it is only in French at the moment, with such vivid illustrations, based on the context offered in such rich vivid detail, I have a feeling we can discern what is shared if French is not known well or at all.
Released in 2024, La Petite Espionne des Nymphéas, enjoy a story told through the eyes of the wildlife and nature that inhabit Monet’s Giverny.
—Les Yeux de Mona (Mona’s Eyes): A Novel by Thomas Schlesser
Yet another reminder to pick up this book! Being released on August 24th here in the states, Mona’s Eyes was chosen as the Petit Plaisir for this week’s podcast episode – #408, so be sure to either tune in to the end of the episode to discover why I highly recommend this new novel, translated from French, where it was an international bestseller, or read my review here on the blog.
—Nobody Sits Like the French: Exploring Paris Through Its World Expos by Charles Pappas
A fun, historical exploration of how France came to be the experts in the chairs we now frequently spy while wandering about the city of Paris. It involves ingenuity from talents throughout Europe, functionality and storability, but bien sûr, style as well.
Released in April, The Shortest History of France “reveals a nation whose politics and society have always been shaped by global forces. With up-to-date scholarship that avoids the traps of national exceptionalism, Jones reminds us that it was only after the first millennium of French history―after constant subjugation to the Roman Empire and Germanic tribal forces―that a nation-state began to emerge, while absorbing influences from its European neighbors. Later, the Crusades and subsequent overseas colonization paved the way for cultural exchange with Africa, the Caribbean, East Asia, and elsewhere.
“France has been home to the Enlightenment, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the Paris Agreement . . . but also to the Vichy regime, the Algerian War, and persistent racism and civil unrest. By turns serious and spirited, The Shortest History of France is a dynamic, global story for our times.”
—Wild Thing: A Life of Paul Gauguin by Sue Prideaux
The often misunderstood Post-Impressionist French painter Paul Gauguin is now receiving what many critics are saying is a well-deserved reintroduction. Released in May of this year, “Wild Thing upends much of what we thought we knew about Gauguin through new primary research, including the resurfaced manuscript of Gauguin’s most important writing, the untranslated memoir of Gauguin’s son, and a sample of Gauguin’s teeth that disproves the pernicious myth of his syphilis. In the first full biography of Paul Gauguin in thirty years, Sue Prideaux illuminates the extraordinary oeuvre of a visionary artist vital to the French avant-garde.”
A self-taught artist, Paul Gauguin has a cheerleader willing to dig deep and go beyond the myths of what have so long confined him from more deserved praise. “Sue Prideaux reveals that while Gauguin was a complicated man, his scandalous reputation is largely undeserved.”
—The Writer’s Lot: Culture and Revolution in Eighteenth-Century France by Robert Darnton
Released in May, “The Writer’s Lot is the first book to move beyond individual biography to take the measure of ‘literary France’ as a whole. Historian Robert Darnton parses forgotten letters, manuscripts, police reports, private diaries, and newspapers to show how writers made careers and how they fit into the social order―or didn’t. Reassessing long-standing narratives of the French Revolution, Darnton shows that to be a reject was not necessarily to be a Jacobin: the toilers of the Parisian Grub Street sold their words to revolutionary publishers and government ministers alike. And while literary France contributed to the downfall of the ancien régime, it did so through its example more than its ideals: the contradiction inherent in the Republic of Letters―in theory, open to all; in practice, dominated by a well-connected clique―dramatized the oppressiveness of the French social system.”
Cookbooks
—The Art of Jacques Pépin: Favorite Recipes and Paintings from My Life in the Kitchen by Jacques Pépin
Just giving you a heads up on this one! Being released on September 9th, and just in time for his 90th birthday, The Art of Jacques Pépin “celebrates master chef Jacques Pépin and his life of cooking and painting, with 99 of his all-time favorite and most-cooked recipes paired with pieces of his signature artworks spanning the last 60 years. Chapters cover all courses for a satisfying meal at home, including desserts, and his artworks are thoughtfully curated accordingly.”
—French Classics: Easy and Elevated Dishes to Cook at Home by Matthew Ryle
One more book that I just wanted to give you a heads up about because this is, after all, French Week, Matthew Ryle’s cookbook French Classics: Easy and Elevated Dishes to Cook at Home.
Being released on October 21st, “whether you’re craving the perfect Croque Madame for lunch or Beef Bourguignon on a cold night, hoping to surprise your partner with Steak Diane or wow your family and friends with a ‘Grande Bouffe,’ French Classics has you covered-and will leave you wondering why you haven’t been cooking this food your whole life. With a 70/30 split of ‘Easy’ and ‘Elevated’ dishes, these recipes are made for any home cook who appreciates fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and true classics.”
—Rustic French Cooking Made Easy: Authentic, Regional Flavors from Provence, Brittany, Alsace and Beyond by Audrey Le Goff
While released back in 2017, Audrey Le Goff’s Rustic French Cooking Made Easy continues to remind us that delicious food does not have to be complicated. Something the French have mastered.
Along with learning how to keep it simple, this is the cookbook to encourage you to dance around all of the regions of France and “delve into the culture behind each recipe. Hearty cold-weather favorites from the north, like Alsatian Pork and Sauerkraut Stew and the supremely flakey Thin-Crusted Onion, Bacon and Cream Tart are quick and comforting. Provençal Vegetable and Pistou Soup, from the sunny south of France, is packed with bright herbs and ripe produce, and Basque Braised Chicken with Peppers is sure to please with a burst of spice. The essential One-Pot French Onion Soup provides a taste of France any night of the week, and the beloved, buttery Kouign-Amann is surprisingly easy to master.” Yum!
Décor
—Foire de Chatou’s Autumn event
Just a reminder, as this semi-annual event is just around the corner, and in case you missed my detailed post earlier this week – the brocante and antique fair to visit if you will be in France during their spring and autumn schedule is Foire de Chatou. This year their autumn week-long event begins on September 26th and runs through October 5th. Read my detailed post of how to visit and get there from Paris as well as view oodles of treasures I spied while visiting this past March.
—Meljac Porcelaine de Limoges (and other finishes), light switch plates
Keeping my eyes peeled for signature details to add to the home, I spied these recently for switch plate covers and immediately saved the name of the company. How gorgeous and artistic are they?! Wow!
—Un Soir à l’Opera Romeo & Juliet Jasmine Night candle
Beautiful scents, and long-lasting burn-time, Un Soir à l’Opera candles are one of my favorite French brands, and this Jasmine Night scent sounds perfect for winding down the day.
If you are going to be in Paris, I shared in this post earlier this week where to find this brand and bring your favorite scents and sizes home.
Film
—L’inconnu de la Grande Arche (English title – The Great Arch)
Debuting at Cannes earlier this year, The Great Arch has piqued my curiosity as I did not know the history, or should I say, l’histoire (which simply means, story), behind the Great Arch of La Défense.
The year is 1982. “French President François Mitterrand decides to launch an international architectural competition for the flagship project of his mandate: the Great Arch of La Défense, aligned with the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe. Against all odds, Otto von Spreckelsen, a Danish architect, wins the competition. Overnight, this 53-year-old man, unknown in France, arrives in Paris where he is propelled at the helm of this pharaonic project. While the architect intends to build the Great Arch exactly as he envisioned, his ideas quickly clash with realistic constraints and the vicissitudes of politics.”
Have a look at the clip from the film below and keep an eye out for it to come to French streaming services soon. I am not sure if it will come to theaters in the states, but if you are in France, you will definitely be able to find it soon in theaters if it isn’t there already. Critics are praising it.
—La Venue de L’Avenir (Colours of Time)
What will come to a theater near you is La Venue de L’Avenir, but likely with the title Colours of Time, and it looks absolutely endearing. The story follows the lives of “four cousins who inherit an old house in rural Normandy and retrace their steps of their ancestors in 19th century Paris.” But here’s the catch: These cousins didn’t know about each other until this unexpected inheritance landed in their laps. Let the curiosities and discoveries begin being unearthed! Have a look at the trailer below and look for it in theaters soon.
While released back in 2014, Samba stars two well-known French actors – Omar Sy (Lupin, Intouchables) and Charlotte Gainsbourg (who you will remember starred in Étoile on Amazon Prime this past spring). The film continues to receive strong reviews, and so it caught my eye, and I have it on my watchlist. Perhaps it will go on yours as well!
“Senegalese Samba (Omar Sy) has worked 10 years in France, but finds himself arrested. Seeking help, he befriends the woman assigned to assist him with legal matters. Being a volunteer, she is burnout at her wit’s end. Samba is released, but only if he leaves France. And then there is chemistry between the two. So what to do? ☺️ Have a look at the trailer below and enjoy watching this film starring two beloved French actors. Streaming available on Amazon Prime, Apple and other services, simply search “where to stream Samba”.
Garden
—Versailles Bistro Set, Aged Bronze, Cox & Cox
I came across this new design of a garden bistro table and chairs this past spring and was in awe. From British garden company Cox & Cox, their inspiration comes from the details found at Versailles. And while an investment, this coupon INTROAUGA to save 20% off full priced items will help. Isn’t this set gorgeous!
British Find
—Sister Boniface, season 4, BritBox
Sneaking one British find into our list this week because I don’t want you to miss the premiere of the fourth season of a favorite cozy mystery series. Sister Boniface is back! Tune on Tuesday August 29th for eight episodes, one available each Tuesday.
Shopping
—Julie Vos’ Carnaby Hoop, three sizes, three colors
As we prep for autumn’s arrival, and an assessing of our wardrobe and accessory needs, Julie Vos has a new collection and these classic, yet timeless hoops (three different sizes are available) are nice simple, yet strong touch to finish a look.
—L’Agence Kolton Midi Dress in sepia brown
But summer isn’t over yet, and if we are buying timeless looks, we will be able to look forward to the beautiful items we love year after year. This midi dress in its collared style and flattering silhouette is gorgeous. And if sepia brown is your color, this is a well-made dress to have.
—Louise Damas Nami earrings, Petites Créoles
One more pair of earrings, this time from French brand Louise Damas. A subtle modern touch to a classic small gold hoop for everyday outfits. Very French, absolutely timeless.
—Rosaé Paris’ Le Martin short jacket, two colors
Autumn and a short jacket for simple layering and keeping warm when that first nip of fall arrives.
Television
—Maigret, PBS Masterpiece
A heads up on this exciting news. The classic French detective is getting a modern upgrade, in fact it’s first contemporary television adaptation, and it is a significant one at that. Premiering on PBS Masterpiece beginning Sunday October 5th at 9pm, Benjamin Wainwright stars as Georges Simenon’s Parisian Chief Inspector Jules Maigret. Have a look at the trailer below.
Rest assured, I will remind us all again in October when the premiere date nears on that particular This & That. 😌
Travel
—Cuisine Elegante, Paris
I wanted to share with you a few travel ideas of what to do, and as you will see in the next item, where to stay, if you are heading to Paris.
Cuisine Elegante, which is located in the heart of Paris, offers a unique cooking experience with Chef Véronique Bawol. “Enjoy a range of bespoke services including private cooking classes followed by lunch, personal food and market tours and creating memorable meals for dinner parties. \
You can sign up for “a French cooking class and lunch in the comfort of a classic Parisian apartment, located near the Eiffel Tower. Come with your family or friends to learn how to prepare an authentic French meal.”
After taking a look at the prices, they are quite reasonable, and definitely look to be a fun English-speaking experience in the City of Light centered around delicious French food – the creating and the dining!
Having just opened this past spring is a beautiful new hotel that includes uniquely decorated rooms, each paying “homage to icons like Agatha Christie, Nina Simone, and Mata Hari while the buzzy restaurant nods to Frida Kahlo”. Designed by Daniel Jibert, Maison Barrière Vendôme is located just as you imagine, next to the Tuileries and the Place Vendôme and the Tuileries Garden.
A luxury hotel, it “offers 26 rooms, suites, and apartments inspired by 26 iconic women and spreads its aura over 7 floors and its restaurant-bar Frida, combining French craftsmanship with the unique comfort of a Parisian pied-à-terre.”
If nothing else, I will dream about staying there, but should the opportunity arise, I will definitely say oui!
Teapot of the Week
—Nymphéa teapot from Royal Limoges
And to conclude our gathering of items, a special teapot, a French one no less and made of porcelain. This Nymphéa teapot is made by Royal Limoges and holds just under one liter, so about 2-3 cups of tea. Isn’t she a beauty?
Welcome to a full week not only here on TSLL blog with bundles and bundles of posts, but a full This & That as well. I hope you found something that tickled your French predilections as I do try to save up French finds throughout the past six months or so, knowing that having them all in one place should you wish to return to this special week’s Archives will ensure you find some treasures of all sorts – books, films, home décor, travel ideas and more.
While my fingers have been fairly glued to the keyboard this week (thus, the typos 🙃), it has been a joy to read your comments as you made your way through the posts and shared what caught your eye, what inspired you, what sparked something for you or made you nostalgic. Thank you so much for taking the time to leave your words – many smiles emerged throughout my day as I read through. And more importantly, you have no idea how other readers are inspired by what you have to say as they discover, I am not the only one who [insert the dream/hope/wish]!
Of course, if you haven’t already become a TOP Tier Member, be sure to consider doing so, as we have some very special giveaways this week, some of which (the Grand Giveaway announced later today for example) will be next to impossible to ship in future months due to price changes, etc., and I was so delighted to be able to secure it for the lucky winner.
You can catch up on all of the posts, there have been 14 so far!, here, and look for both the Grand Giveaway (later today – be sure to enter by Saturday at noon! Pacific time) and three more posts on Saturday before the Sunday post that will contain all the winners of the eight total giveaways. (Psst, did you enter the newsletter giveaway and did you see that you can enter that giveaway twice? Yep, read this IG post to find out how.)
One moment that Nelle implored me, and I happily obliged, to step away from the computer for a moment this week was to visit our weekly market, which is where the above photo was captured. We had a wonderful time, friendly chats with locals and even found our garlic rope for the year! So tickled!
We still have a few more treasures to share with you in the list below. I do hope you enjoy the links and the video (a stunning tour!) Merci for stopping by today and throughout this festive week. Until later today, bonne journée !
~Five everyday, simply luxuries daily habits of living in France [Leonce]
~How King Louis XIV’s Potager is trying to combat climate change [Town & Country]
~A guide from a fashion editor to Saint-Germain-des-Prés [Marie Claire]
~A different approach to learning the French language [NYTimes, gift link]
~And a follow up article with much more details about how to truly dive into learning the language as mentioned in the above link – thank you to long-time reader and member Janet B. for sharing this with me last year. I’ve been waiting to share it with you during our annual celebration. [NYTimes, gift link]
~Live and Learn en Provence: Learn French in France (the source mentioned in the article just above)
~Savoring Paris food all the while healing a broken-heart [Forbes]
~The charming book town in Brittany [ [Secret Moona blog]
~Thank you Rona for sharing this article with TSLL! Why France’s quincailleries (hardware stores) are so much more than that [NYTimes, gift link]
~Why Versailles deserves far more than just a day-trip visit. [WSJ]
~Watch this video tour shared by The French Country Life tours a bed & breakfast in Provence run by a Belgian couple who found their dream home and have been hosting guests since 2017.
~For both the home tour and video of the week, an incredibly special tour of a Parisian house boat on the Seine. French interior designer Charlotte Biltgen opens the doors to let us peek inside. Enjoy!
~Explore last week’s This & That: August 8, 2025
Cookbooks full of delicious, approachable, seasonal fare, a new novel that takes us back to 18th century London with a mystery to solve and a strong female protagonist determined to break from society’s limitations for women, a new book that speaks to the heart of what it means to live a life of contentment – explore what ‘joyspan’ means, a new French-language film starring two well-known actors – one from America and the other from Canada, and Dame makes her directorial debut. Of course, we have clothing and accessory finds and a few home décor items as well – one vintage and other that has patina, but is brand new and stunning. All of this and 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 mentioned and recommended finds. Affiliate links are present in today’s post and may earn commissions for TSLL when you purchase. View TSLL’s full Privacy Policy here.
Can’t wait for new episodes of Sister Boniface! Thanks for the heads up.
Such a fun series and cast!! Tuesday plans are made! ☺️🇬🇧❤️ Thank you for stopping by Krislen! Have a wonderful weekend!