Three great new novels, each on a uniquely different topic, two non-fiction history-focused books – one for fashion lovers and the other for women’s history fans. Lesley Manville’s new film, a new series with CEOs and women at the helm, clothing for timeless style, and quite a few gardening finds as well. Oh! And still there are more treasures to be found!

Books

—Kin: A Novel by Tayari Jones

From a bestselling and award-winning author comes Kin. Tayari Jones centers her new novel around two women – Vernice and Annie, two motherless daughters raised in Honeysuckle, Louisiana, who have been best friends and neighbors since earliest childhood but are fated to live starkly different lives. One is immediately supported and shepherded into a life of stability, while the other is orphaned, leaving her on a constant search for the mother she no longer has. Described as a book about “friendship and sisterhood, and the complexities of being a woman in the American South, Kin is an exuberant, emotionally rich, unforgettable work from one of the brightest and most irresistible voices in contemporary fiction.”

—More than Enough: A Novel by Anna Quindlen

Another Editor’s Pick, just as the above mentioned novel was, Anna Quindlen’s new novel More than Enough focuses on high school English teacher Polly Goodman, someone “who can talk about everything and anything with the women in her book club, which is why they’ve become her closest friends and, along with her veterinarian husband, the bedrock of her life. But when they give Polly an ancestry test kit as a joke, the results match her with a stranger. It is clear to Polly that this match is a mistake, but still she cannot help but comb through her family history for answers. Then, when it seems that the book club circle of four will become three, Polly learns how friendships can change your life in the most profound ways.”

—One of Us: A Novel by Elizabeth Day

One of Us has been described as an “interrogation of class, privilege, and power.” Being released on Tuesday, February 24th, it all begins “when Fliss, the eccentric grown daughter of the powerful Fitzmaurice clan, is found dead on a beach in Bali, what seems like a tragic accident stirs more suspicion than closure for those who’ve traded favors with—and within—her family for decades.” It sounds like a page-turner, as Fliss’s death unearths many truths, some of which people would rather keep hidden.

—Shakespeare’s Sisters: How Women Wrote the Renaissance by Ramie Targoff 

Described by critics as “a vivid, finely crafted portrait of four extraordinary Renaissance women”, Ramie Targoff’s Shakespeare’s Sisters is an “engaging narrative of everyday life in Shakespeare’s England. Carrying readers “from the sumptuous coronation of Queen Elizabeth in the mid-16th century into the private lives of four women writers working at a time when women were legally the property of men, learn about Mary Sidney, an accomplished poet and sister of the famous Sir Philip Sidney, and be introduced to Aemilia Lanyer, the first woman in the 17th century to publish a book of original poetry, which offered a feminist take on the crucifixion. Then, learn about Elizabeth Cary, who published the first original play by a woman, about the plight of the Jewish princess Mariam. Then there was Anne Clifford, a lifelong diarist, who fought for decades against a patriarchy that tried to rob her of her land in one of England’s most infamous inheritance battles.”

British Finds

—Fashioning the Crown: A Story of Power, Conflict, and Couture by Justine Picardie

Speaking of books I am looking forward to reading, as a fan of the historian and fashion expert Justine Picardie (her biography Miss Dior was selected as a Petit Plaisir a couple of years ago), her latest book Fashioning the Crown looks equally intriguing.

“From the birth of the house of Windsor in 1917, its leading women – Queen Mary, the Queen Mother, the Duchess of Windsor and Queen Elizabeth II – faced abdication and assassination, revolution and the rise of fascism, the threat of invasion and all-out war. Their sartorial decisions, alongside those of their royal husbands, projected power and perpetuity, diplomacy and defiance. In this cinematic story of espionage and exquisite couture, Justine Picardie reveals the undercover lives of the creators behind the facade — including Hardy Amies, Cecil Beaton, Norman Hartnell and Edward Molyneux — and traces the ways in which visual iconography safeguarded the monarchy even when their reign seemed to be hanging by a thread.

Drawing on original research in the Royal Archives and her own experiences at Balmoral, Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace, Picardie explores the family feuds and international conflicts that challenged the Crown, and how royal fashion is wielded as a weapon.”

Being released on February 24th, below are the two covers: left – US; right – UK.

Décor

—Anthropologie Ruthie Vase, two colors

—Vintage Bordallo Pinheiro Pedestal Plate (a second one is available here)

These classic Portuguese designs are available at quite a nice price at Chairish. And while many reproductions or imitations are sold, these are the real deal, treasures to savor.

—Vintage Bordallo Pinheiro Ivy Leaf Plates

Films

—Midwinter Break

Midwinter Break is a new film based on the acclaimed novel by Irish author Bernard MacLaverty, released in 2017. The film, premiering today, centers around a longtime couple takes a life-changing trip to Amsterdam. Lesley Manville and Ciarán Hinds star in Stella & Gerry, a retired couple whose winter trip to Amsterdam stirs up troubled memories from their past. For those who know the history of what has come to be known as The Troubles, that is what the memories stem from, as we see in the trailer how Manville’s character is determined to rectify the past and their part in it, although we do not know what that is (unless we’ve read the novel). With these two actors leading the story, it looks to be a heart-gripping film.

Francophile Finds

—My French Country Home Box (w/Sharon Santoni’s new book!)

If you haven’t already ordered your French Country Home Box, and if you love antique hunting, then this is the box to scoop up. Not only will you be in for the usual treats and treasures, but Sharon Santoni is also including an advance copy of her new book The Art of Antiquing in France, which isn’t officially released until April 7th (a $40 value). Not only that, for this box, she is covering all of the duties and tariffs.

And an exciting heads up! As we near the publication date, Sharon will be joining me as a guest on The Simple Sophisticate podcast, something she has graciously done many times before. And this time especially, I cannot wait to talk about this new book’s focus. A shared passion that she has helped me become more savvy about, which is one of the many reasons I cannot wait to pick up this book.

Garden

—Garden Trading Newbridge Armchair Set, Thistle Green, 20% off

Outdoor living will be here before we know it (even if that is hard to believe at the moment!). And this sale is one to take note of if you are looking for outdoor furniture inspired by the British and European garden furniture you love. All of Garden Trading furniture is 20% off, and the prices themselves are quite reasonable. This armchair set (they have bistro sets as well – 2 and 4-top) is powdered steel and is $320 (for all three pieces. Yep, they do ship to the States (the company is based in the UK).

Be sure to shop all of their styles and sets as there are many colors and options to choose from.

—The Weekend Gardener: Weekend Projects and Everyday Inspiration for the Busy Gardener by Henry Agg

Released earlier this week, The Weekend Gardener is being described as “your beginner’s DIY guide to creating your dream garden.”

“Henry Agg created his garden while working full-time, proving that you can too! Now a qualified garden designer, Henry shares his knowledge for the busy gardener who doesn’t know where to begin. Broken down into four key stages, easy-to-follow step-by-step projects and bite-sized seasonal tasks walk you through how to:

• Build paths, steps, patios, walls, and fences; as well as plant supports, such as pergolas and raised beds; and even a calming water feature
• Plan your design, considering aspect, look and feel, and budget
• Plant trees, hedges, herbaceous plants, bulbs, and lay turf
• Maintain your dream garden so it keeps looking good – and you feeling good – all year round.

“With estimates of how long jobs will take – from an hour or so to a full weekend – so you can plan your time, The Weekend Gardener has all the gardening essentials you need to get started.” Sounds like the perfect book to get us inspired to make it an amazing gardening season to come!

~Look for TSLL’s monthly gardening series to pick back up with March’s arrival! I cannot wait to share with you what I have been and will be up to each month as I have been doing over the past two years. Explore past monthly posts here.

Shopping

—Brochu Walker’s V-neck layered Pullover Sweater, many colors

How about this! Let Brochu Walker do the styling for you so that you can feel comfortable and look great without the extra clothing! These sweaters are all in one, so to speak. This “cashmere sweater is pre-layered over our striped cotton poplin, which creates the illusion of two pieces in one. The shirting collar, cuffs and hem are attached on the inside of the knit layer, so The Looker remains lightweight and trans-seasonal, while the slightly oversized fit makes it cozy.” I know! Genius, simple and oh so helpful. There are oodles of colors and combinations, so be sure to explore them all here.

—Frame Denim’s The Vertical jeans, four washes available

Last week, Part Deux of “How to Build a Wardrobe to Love and Live in Every Day” focused on all things denim jeans, and so I wanted to take a moment to share with you a design from Frame that I just purchased, love and highly recommend, while also sharing with you my sizing experience.

As I have been making my way through my 12-15 piece shopping list that extends for 12 months, this approach is detailed in Part Une/One of the Signature Style series, my item to purchase this month was a second pair of jeans (I explain each of my purchases in the series). A pair of Frame jeans was on my list; however, when the company’s Archives sale popped up last week, I began to look more closely at a few other designs. Then I looked at the measurements of each and realized that The Vertical was exactly what I was looking for.

One takeaway I shared in Part Deux is to ignore the size designations and instead focus on the measurements. Case in point: while I had recently purchased a size 27 that fit me as I wanted from one denim company, after looking at Frame’s The Vertical measurements, a size 29 would work best. And it was true! The Vertical is rigid, but not entirely (just a slight give), and the length is amazing! 32.5″! Having to pay only $111 with the sale that was going on (regularly $328), I was over the moon with my find. All of this is to say, this is a style I highly recommend, and the measurements are what to focus on. When another sale comes around, scoop these up, or purchase them at full price and rest assured, you will LOVE them. I promise to share photos of me wearing these jeans as we move along further in the series as I will be pairing them with some of the tops that are on my list.

—Lenoites French Hair Pin

I have been hearing here and there that a French Hair Pin is in? Well, as many of you already know, as do I, they are timeless and have been a wonderful hair tool to have and always have on hand. Whatever brings us more options and an array of prices, I am all for it. So, at the moment, that is where we find ourselves and I am loving it. Lenoites French Hair Pin is only $9, and based on my fine hair and length of hair, I at least need a 5″ pin, which is what this one is. A lightweight pin (in most cases, like this one, made of acetate) for fine hair is key too, but if you have coarse and thick hair, a metal pin will work beautifully.

—N. Peal’s Arabella Wrap Cashmere Cardigan, ecru

—Sézane’s Gina Earrings

A statement with timeless appeal.

—Sir | Madam Rialto Glass Coupe Set, pale sage

Having at least a pair of classic coupes on hand to toast any special occasion (which can be anything so long as it is something we want to cheer) is a great idea. And finding beautiful coupes at that is a splendid idea. Sir | Madam’s inspiration for their Rialto bespoke collection of colorfully festive drinking glasses came about on a trip to Italy’s beloved Floating City. “Designed in homage to the defining arches that adorn Venice’s most iconic bridge, our Rialto Glassware comes in four distinct shapes and fourteen signature colors.” Their pale sage stands out for me, but just look at the rest of the colors – gorgeous and quite honestly, it would be hard to choose ☺️.

Television

—The CEO Club, Amazon Prime

A new series premieres today on Amazon Prime with The CEO Club. Sharing the lives of seven female CEOs, Serena Williams, Thalia, Dee Hilfiger, Loren Ridinger, Winnie Harlow, Hannah Bronfman, and Isabela Grutman, the series “highlights their individual journeys, collective camaraderie, and the power of women supporting women.” All eight episodes will be available beginning today, and one quote shared by one of the women in the trailer caught my ear and garnered my appreciation, and perhaps it will yours as well: “Not by following the rules. By rewriting them.” Have a look at the trailer below.

—Portobello, HBO

Having never heard about this event in Italian history before, I was curious to learn more. Premiering today on HBO is a limited series titled Portobello. “This Italian drama tells the true story of beloved TV host Enzo Tortora, whose life is upended when he’s falsely named in a criminal ring.” With all of our eyes on Italy these past two weeks as we enjoy the Olympics, some Italian history to learn about.

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The ocean and Nelle, two of my sanctuaries, as we explored the definition here in this post earlier this month, and the primary reason we went to the Oregon coast was to rest. And oh, that rest most definitely rejuvenated. As I shared in the weekly newsletter, we experienced snow, rain, and sunshine, so a smorgasbord of weather options. A treat I savored.

We’re back home now and wouldn’t you know it! Snow fell that first night back. Not much, but enough to bring out the snow shovel, the first time this season! Okay, maybe the shovel wasn’t actually necessary, but I have been wanting to do this seasonal task for so long! ☺️

This week also brought a review of the Contentment Masterclass that I couldn’t wait to share. You will remember that earlier this year, I added a new lesson to the course focused on the Nervous System, and as Dani shares in her review below, it is a component to understand to help us find our contentment. Once we understand how our physiology works, we can understand how it communicates, what it is saying, and then find peace in knowing what the best decision is for each of us in response to what it is trying to communicate, regardless of what others may decide in the same situations. Thank you, Dani, for your eloquent and generously detailed review.

Now, to the weekend, and may it be a couple of days of precisely what you long to experience, to discover, perhaps to need. Oh! And as I speak, the snow is falling again. Like we say in Bend, never count Mother Nature out. Her timing is her own, and that we must respect, but winter usually arrives eventually for us snow-lovers. And with that good news (for us, I know many of you are quite over the snow and I completely get that too 😌), to the weekend! Thank you for stopping by, and until Monday, bonne journée !

~Home of the Week! With the coast on my mind, this Dorset coast home, an 18th-century house, is full of books, cozy rooms, yet spacious at the same time, beautiful shells, and a lush garden. I may have shared this one a few years back, but it never gets old, so I am sharing it again. [House & Garden UK]

~How to season like a French chef! Ah, the key is to remember to season, and with Daniel Boulud’s finesse, we’re sure to create delicious meals. [Food & Wine]

~Last week found me cutting back all of my grasses and perennials after having given their beauty and seeds to the birds over the winter. And oh my goodness, it felt amazing to be back out in the garden! Now, we begin to prepare for the new season – What to prune in winter [Gardeners’ World]

~Seeing hellebores as the many I came across earlier this week at Crystal Spring’s Rhodendron Garden is a welcomed sight as winter nears its end. Here is a helpful guide for growing them successfully. [House & Garden UK]

~With each interview I watch and read centered around Matthiew Blazy, the new creative director of Chanel, endears me to him even more. Here is a wonderful interview if you have yet to be introduced. [Financial Times, gift link]

~A favorite designer of mine – Vanessa Seward – shares her ultimate guide to vintage shopping in Paris [WWD]

~I think this video of Queen Elizabeth and her corgis may just bring a bright smile. [IG @old_world _archive]

~My favorite article this week. Much to ponder in “The quiet catastrophe in your pocket.” The author’s third point definitely grabbed my attention. [The Financial Times, gift link]

~Watch Alysa Liu’s gold medal-winning long program ice skating performance here. The ease and joy with which she skates is something to make viewers smile, whether they know anything about skating or not. Wow. Congrats Alysa!

~The Musée de la Vie Romantique in Paris has now reopened after its renovation! [IG @museedelavieromantique]

~And I want to conclude with one of my favorite ice skating/dancing performances at the Olympics. It was performed 10 days ago, and the French pair Laurence Fournier Beaudry and Guillaume Cizeron eventually went on to upset the favorites and win the gold in Ice Dancing. This short program/rhythm dance performance is full of intricacies, and just watching the skaters’ facial expressions is a treat. Oh! And the costumes – yes! Here is their performance. Enjoy and Félicitations!

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~Explore last week’s edition of This & That, February 13th

~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.