Oodles of clothing and décor sales to explore, top books in various genres recently released, a new book about The Queen’s style over the past seven decades, a new series on the first Queen Elizabeth, a must-watch French film that won the Oscar equivalent of Best Picture in 2022, a new British film based on a true story, and much, much more.

Books

—The Cook You Want to Be: Everyday Recipes to Impress by Andy Baraghani

A new cookbook released on May 24th and already a New York Times bestseller, Andy Baraghani who worked as an intern at Chez Panisse, “honed his perfectly balanced salad–making skills at Estela in New York, and developed recipes in the test kitchens of Saveur, Tasting Table, and Bon Appétit shares with readers The Cook You Want to Be. Having created many viral recipes at Bon Appétit that became household favorites such as Tahini Ranch to Fall-Apart Caramelized Cabbage, inside his new cookbook discover 100 recipes which include  Caramelized Sweet Potatoes with Browned Butter Harissa; Sticky, Spicy Basil Shrimp; and Tangy Pomegranate-Chicken. 

—Either/Or by Elif Batuman

Also released on May 24th, “from the acclaimed and bestselling author of The Idiot, the continuation of beloved protagonist Selin’s quest for self-knowledge, as she travels abroad and tests the limits of her newfound adulthood”. What caught my eye about Batuman’s second novel was the penchant for the protagonist to analyze and inquire about so many existential topics, all wrapped up in her determination to welcome international travel into her life curriculum.

—The Monocle Book of Gentle Living: A guide to slowing down, enjoying more and being happy by the Monocle Magazine (Amazon purchase for $29.95, above link $50)

British Finds

—Operation Mincemeat

Premiering last month on Netflix, Operation Mincemeat stars Colin Firth, Penelope Winton (from Downton Abbey) and many other acting talents to tell the story of two British intelligence officers who hatch a scheme to trick the Nazis that seems all but impossible and too far-fetched to be believed. Based on a true story, check out the trailer below and enjoy it now.

—The Queen: 70 Years of Majestic Style by Bethan Holt

Released in April, look back over the seven decades of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign in vivid photography and details of the events that provide the context to her attire.

Décor

—One Kings Lane’s First Friends & Family Sale, 20% off sitewide

For the first time, One Kings Lane is having a sale not to miss – their Friends & Family Sale. If you have anything saved or on a wishlist, now is a great time to scoop it up. I have a few pillows on my list, and will be checking to see if indeed they will be finding a new home at Le Papillon. I have a shopped a few items below.

French Finds

—Lost Illusions (Illusions Perdues)

The winner of 7 César Awards this past March, including Best Picture (France’s equivalent to the Oscars), Lost Illusions comes to theaters in the states today. Based on Honoré de Balzac’s novel, Illusions Perdues, published between the years 1837 and 1943 (a three part series), step back into the evolution of journalism in France. Oh, but my description does the film no favors. It looks to be a riotous plot to watch unfold. Check out the trailer below to see for yourself.

Garden

—The Seasonal Gardener: Creative Planting Combinations by Anna Pavord

Recently revised since being published originally in 2001, “bestselling author Anna Pavord selects 60 ‘star plants’ – from iris to hostas – and pairs each with two perfect partners: shrubs, herbaceous perennials, bulbs, and annuals that no garden should be without”. If you are looking for inspiration or just getting started and want to know where to start and what would be worth investing in for a beautiful succession of color in your garden, this is the book to explore.

Shopping

—Anthropologie Sale

For this weekend only, enjoy 30% off Summer Entertaining Essentials. I have shopped a few items below.

—AYR The Deep End Striped Shirt

—Netaporter Semi-Annual Sale, up to 50% off

If you are looking for designer finds and don’t want to pay the full retail price, be sure to check out Net-a-Porter’s semi-annual sale. I have shopped a few items for you, and while the sale will continue to reduce prices further, if your size is available now, don’t wait as items go quickly.

—Shopbop 25% sale

Another sale to check out if you have something in mind, but don’t want to pay full price. Use the promo code BREEZY for today only (Friday) and save 25% off your purchase. I have shopped a handful of items below to peruse.

—Mira Crossbody and Clutch bag, Ulla Johnson (sale)

I came across this crossbody and clutch bag while perusing the Net-a-Porter sale above, and while they only had one color available (beige), the black bag is on sale here. I find the cut and style flattering and easy to wear against the body. The chain can be easily removed for crossbody wear, but you can also dress up your look with the clutch option. A beautiful bag and one to explore if you too are in the market for exactly what this bag offers: dual functionality and timeless style.

Television

—Becoming Elizabeth, Starz

Premiering this Sunday (June 12th) on Starz, step back into the early 16th century England as the future Queen Elizabeth I finds her way to becoming monarch. Have a look at the trailer below.

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The week that was found me stepping into the kitchen to film the first episode for the upcoming cooking show – The Simply Luxurious Kitchen – which will premiere (its 5th season) in September. And oh my goodness, was it good to be back at it – sharing French recipes I love and showing how they really are more simple than they appear, all the while incorporating seasonal produce picked up at the market. Speaking of the local farmers’ market, that is where I found myself on Wednesday and I did enjoy it. The crowds were bustling, the booths were full of delicious goods, and the baskets and hats were aplenty! I felt maybe I was in France. 🙂

All of the dahlias are now out in the garden, and I will be potting up my trailing nasturtiums and putting them outside later this weekend. The mornings are warm, and so Norman and I find ourselves out on the garden porch to enjoy breakfast while being serenaded by the birds (at least that is what I tell myself they are doing ;)). Norman, seen above in the pic, is often found in his favorite chair in the house as he can watch where I am if I am in the kitchen, the dining room or sitting next to him, and I share this image because I am currently in the middle of trying patiently to wait for the new addition to this space – curtains! Yep, the reading nook will be finished when the curtains go up, and the rods we selected (I am working with my friend Veronique again :)) are also something I am excited to see installed. Rest assured, when all is in place, I will give a tour and share tips and tricks so that you too can welcome window treatments to add a touch of classic cozy to your sanctuary (explore becoming a TOP Tier Member in order to take the tour when it is posted).

Okay! Now to the weekend! I have gathered up a few articles and one video in full below for you to enjoy. Thank you so much for stopping by today, and if you haven’t tuned in to Monday’s new podcast episode, be sure to check it out (the Petit Plaisir was a hit with listeners, and I highly recommend it for weekend viewing). And if you are looking to do a bit of shopping and are drawn to a classic French approach, Wednesday’s post is a post not to miss – 6+ outfits. Until Monday, bonne journée!

~3 Things that will make you happier than winning the lottery [Inc.]

~Calling all When Harry Met Sally Fans – When Rob Reiner’s Alter Ego (Harry) Met Nora Ephron’s Alter Ego (Sally [LitHub]

~5 key ways for highly sensitive introverts to increase their creativity [Introvert, Dear]

~How to host the perfect French Apéro [Frenchly]

~10 historical Parisian restaurants to put on your list to explore [The Earful Tower]

~Let the mushroom hunting commence! Morels are having a great year, and here is one recipe to try. [Saveur] And here are quite a few more to explore [Bon Appétit]

~One more for my fellow introverts – Why coffee shops are the ultimate introvert utopia [Introvert, Dear]

~Realtor, Entrepreneur Mogul Tracy Tutor shares her skincare routine and one brand is on the list I highly recommend as well [Camille Styles]

~The Duke and Duchess of Sussex share the first photos of daughter Lilibet on her first birthday [Vogue]

~The greatest life hacks in the world (for now), by David Brooks [The New York Times]

~How France is keeping their inflation rate comparatively low [The Local]

~14 Things High Sensitive People absolutely need to be happy [Highly Sensitive Refuge]

~What awe tastes like: how Alice Waters went from fish sticks to farm-to-table [WSJ]

~And in case you haven’t seen the video getting much applause during the Platinum Jubilee celebrations, here it is again – The Queen and Paddington Bear having tea together.

~And I have to finish with one of the most mind-bogglingly awesome performances presented to The Queen on May 12th during the Platinum Jubilee Performance at Windsor – the Drum Battle Playoff between the Top Secret Corp Band and the Royal Marine Corp Band, the agility, the timing, just wow.

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~Check out last week’s This & That: June 3, 2022

~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.