Two British entertainment finds that I think will delight Anglophiles, books for challenging the term of ‘genius’, a new novel from a bestselling novelist that asks us to set aside assumptions of what constitutes a best outcome, cookbooks for simplifying and amping up the summer as well as year-round flavor, a Francophile book series returns for mystery lovers, and still more titles. The Brad Pitt film that has been talked about for oh so long finally arrives as well as a new British adaptation of a French drama favorite by many TSLL readers. And then we have clothing sales galore and still so much more.

Books

—The Genius Myth: A Curious History of a Dangerous Idea by Helen Lewis

Released on June 17th, in The Genius Myth, “Helen Lewis unearths how this one word has shaped (and distorted) our ideas of success and achievement . . . Braiding deep research with her signature wit and lightness, Lewis dissects past and present models of genius in the West, and reveals a far deeper and more interesting picture of human creativity than conventional wisdom allows. She uncovers a battalion of overlooked wives and collaborators. She asks whether most inventions are inevitable. She wonders if the Beatles would succeed today. And she confronts the vexing puzzle of Elon Musk, the tech disrupter who fancies himself as an ubermensch.” I am most definitely looking forward to reading this book.

—My Friends: A Novel by Fredrick Backman

Released in May, bestselling author Fredrick Backman returns with what looks to be another winner of a novel. My Friends is the “tale of four teenagers whose friendship creates a bond so powerful that it changes a complete stranger’s life twenty-five years later.” Their friendship began in a distant seaside town as they each found “refuge from their bruising home lives by spending long summer days on an abandoned pier, telling silly jokes, sharing secrets, and committing small acts of rebellion. These lost souls find in each other a reason to get up each morning, a reason to dream, a reason to love.”

“Out of that summer emerges a transcendent work of art, a painting that will unexpectedly be placed into eighteen-year-old Louisa’s care. She embarks on a surprise-filled cross-country journey to learn how the painting came to be and to decide what to do with it. The closer she gets to the painting’s birthplace, the more nervous she becomes about what she’ll find. Louisa is proof that happy endings don’t always take the form we expect in this stunning testament to the transformative, timeless power of friendship and art.”

—Stronger: The Untold Story of Muscle in Our Lives by Michael Joseph Gross

I happened upon a review of Michael Gross’s book Stronger this past weekend in the WSJ’s recommended summer reading section. It caught my eye because of my recent reading of Dr. Stacy Sims’ book Next Level which doesn’t hold back on the importance to lift heavy s*&! when it comes to the best approach to fitness for women as the perimenopause, menopause and postmenopausal years arrive (listen to the episode that was inspired by her book here – episode #402).

Released back in March, “Stronger shows muscle and weight training in a whole new light. With warmth and humor, Michael Joseph Gross blends history and firsthand reporting in an inspiring narrative packed with practical information based on rigorous scientific studies from around the world. The research proves that weight training can help prevent or treat many chronic diseases and disabilities throughout the lifespan, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis, and depression. Stronger reveals how all of us, from elite powerlifters to people who have never played sports at all, can learn to lift weights in ways that yield life’s ultimate prize: the ability to act upon the world in the ways that we wish.”

—Why Women Grow: Stories of Soil, Sisterhood and Survival by Alice Vincent

I want to thank long-time reader of TSLL Edel for bringing this title to my attention. Why Women Grow seeks to tell the stories of why women have gardened, and in the process shares much history we may not know about or be as privy to. “This book emerged from a deeply rooted desire to share the stories of women who are silenced and overlooked. In doing so, Alice fosters connections with gardeners that unfurl into a tender exploration of women’s lives, their gardens and what the ground has offered them, with conversations spanning creation and loss, celebration and grief, power, protest, identity and renaissance.”

British Finds

—The Littlest Library: A Novel by Poppy Alexander

Now this novel looks to be a bundle of light-hearted reading. Released a couple of years ago in 2022, The Littlest Library centers around Jess Metcalf “who is perfectly content with her quiet, predictable life. But then her life is turned upside down when her beloved grandmother passes away and she loses her job at the local library.

“Determined to pick up the pieces, Jess decides it’s time for a new beginning. Unable to part with her grandmother’s cherished books, she packs them all up and moves to a tiny cottage in the English countryside. To her surprise, Jess discovers that she’s now the owner of an old red phone box that was left on the property. Missing her job at the local library, Jess decides to give back to her new community—using her grandmother’s collection to turn the ordinary phone box into the littlest library in England.

“It’s not long before the books are borrowed and begin to work their literary magic—bringing the villagers together… and managing to draw Jess’ grumpy but handsome neighbor out of his shell.”

—Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift, on stage! at Richmond Upon Thames theatre, London

Guess what! Oh my goodness, if you are going to be in London this fall, winter or upcoming spring, book your tickets now! After decades on the small screen, Caroline Graham’s Midsomer Murders is being taken to the stage! Yep! Coming to Richmond Upon Thames Theatre in London, look for the first mystery that kicked it all off to be brought to life in person in The Killings at Badger’s Drift.

And if you were wondering, as I have been, if Midsomer Murders the television series would return, rest assured, season 25 began being filmed this spring and will be airing in either late 2025 or early 2026. We can expect four episodes to enjoy in the next 6-9 months!

—Murder Most Puzzling, Channel 5

Now, this looks to be a fantastically fun and funny cosy mystery series. Phyllis Logan from Downton Abbey and Lovejoy fame stars, yes, finally stars! in the lead role of Murder Most Puzzling. A new series that premiered just last week in the UK on Channel 5. Have a look at the trailer below, and for those of us in the states, let’s cross our fingers and toes that it becomes available to stream here soon!

—Patience, PBS Passport

I happened upon this new crime series that set in Yorkshire, England, last weekend while perusing through my PBS Passport shows. Having now watched three episodes, Patience refers to the young woman who (played by Ella Maisy Purvis) is autistic police archivist Patience Evans. If you have watched the French series Astrid (aka Astrid et Raphaëlle) also available on PBS Masterpiece, you will quite enjoy this new adaptation. I found myself becoming endeared to Patience, as well as Detective Inspector Bea Metcalf. And if you enjoyed the Shakespeare & Hathaway series, you will delight in seeing Mark Benton as the head chief inspector Bea reports to. Watch all episodes now on PBS Passport for season one (there are six), and good news, a second season is confirmed and should be airing in 2026. Have a look at the trailer below.

—Wimbledon: The Championships

The qualifying rounds are well underway at Wimbledon, and the fortnight officially begins this coming week. If you have Hulu TV + their Live package or any streaming service with ESPN, you will be able to watch it here in the states. And if you will be stepping onto the hollowed grounds to enjoy this annual tennis event, have an amazing time! I will be looking for you in the bleachers sipping your Pimm’s and having just enjoyed a strawberries & cream ;).

Cookbook

—Service: One Day in a Restaurant, Over 150 Recipes to Cook at Home by Anna Hedworth

Released this past March, in Service, “chef of Cook House in Kent, England, Anna Hedworth takes the reader through a day in her restaurant, the soothing rhythms of prep and mealtimes, and the ups and downs of service. It’s an all-day operation, from breakfast through to dinner and post service, and the recipes reflect those times of day and the menus Anna creates for her restaurants.” Service invites readers and at-home-cooks to see behind the scenes to all the better appreciate the food that arrives at our table.

What you will discover in Service are “recipes are characterised by their simplicity and seasonality, including Spiced Pancakes with Poached Rhubarb & Raspberry for breakfast, BBQ Bavette & Courgettes with Sriracha Aioli for lunch, Braised Squid in Red wine with Fennel & Samphire for Dinner, Blood Orange, Cardamom & Olive Oil Cake for dessert and an array of drinks and seasonal preserves – this is an inspirational collection of stunning dishes.”

—Simple Pleasures: Incredibly Craveable Recipes for Everyday Cooking by Jodi Moreno

Well, this cookbook was made for readers of TSLL ☺️. Released this past May, Jodi Moreno, a James Beard–nominated chef, released her new cookbook Simple Pleasures.

Having the opportunity to receive a copy of this book, the photos will entice you to try these creative approaches to all very simple recipes. I especially appreciate how they are organized, according to both occasion and time available. “A few things you will be sure to find: lots of butter, crème fraîche in desserts, juicy ripe tomatoes everywhere, mounds of parmesan cheese, blankets of sauces, layers of texture and flavor, and the perfect mix of indulgence + feel-good foods to nourish you inside and out.

“In addition to the standard chapters on breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert, this playful book has sections devoted to pasta parties and long leisurely gatherings with friends―all with super adaptable recipes that feel both unexpected and approachable.”

Décor

—Brass Oval Standing Floor Mirror by Brigette Romanek, Crate & Barrel

If you are in the market for a full-length mirror and do not want to have to mount it on or prop it up against a wall, this is the mirror to consider. Standing at 6′ in height, but tiltable, as you can see below in the second photo, this brass mirror will make a classic, yet subtle stylish statement while also providing the function that you need. I am considering it for the guest bedroom at the moment as there is no full length mirror on that side of the house. We will see!

Film

—F1

The movie of the summer many have been waiting for, brought to the screen by the same guy who is behind the Mission Impossible films, is F1 starring you-know-who Brad Pitt. The premise of the film centers around Sonny Hayes who in the 1990s was Formula 1’s most promising driver until an accident on the track nearly ended his career. Thirty years later, the owner of a struggling Formula 1 team convinces Sonny to return to racing and become the best in the world. Driving alongside the team’s hotshot rookie, Sonny soon learns that the road to redemption is not something you can travel alone. I must say, I wouldn’t be opposed to watching this. ☺️ Here’s the trailer and look for it in theaters beginning today.

—My Mom Jayne: A Film by Mariska Hargitay

Many of know who Mariska Hargitay is, the long-standing lead actor in Law & Order: Special Victim’s Unit, but what I didn’t know until quite a few years ago was who her mother is/was. Jayne Mansfield, who I will readily admit I didn’t know much about, but I know generations prior to me most certainly do as she was well-known to the public eye in the 50s and 60s. In this new documentary My Mom Jayne directed by Mariska (her debut as a director), it examines the life of her late mother. Listen/Read a review shared on NPR here, and watch the trailer below. It premieres today on HBO.

Francophile Finds

—An Enemy in the Village: A Bruno, Chief of Police Novel by Martin Walker

The 18th book in the French mystery series set in the Dordogne region of France will be released next week! Martin Walker’s An Enemy in the Village brings us Bruno, the Chief of Police to solve the crime, along with wonderful food and scenery details of the French countryside and culture.

“A real estate agent’s death sends shockwaves through the idyllic town of St. Denis, leading Bruno, Chief of Police, to suspect that there’s more to this tragedy than meets the eye.”

Shopping

—Dean Davidson’s Large Square Hoops

While scrolling through Molly Roger’s shopping links for And Just Like That, one of the two head stylists of the series, I saw these earrings, and for the price, wanted to save them to share here on TSLL. Classic, yet modern in their size. Subtle, yet statement making at the same time.

—Mango Sale, up to 50% off

Quite a few sales are kicking off early for the July 4th holiday, and Mango is one of them. I have shopped a few items including this small natural fiber basket (black trim also available), now discounted to $59, but be sure to shop the entire sale.

~SHOP THE SALE:

—Margaux’s The City Sandal, two colors

A summer sandal style that will never go out of style if you are looking for just a little bit of height, but not too much and definitely sturdy as you go.

—M.M. LaFleur, 25% off sale – site-wide (with a few exceptions)

Here’s another one! A great brand for office attire, the fabric is movable, stylish and classic. I have a few of their pieces and the price is nice for the quality you receive. And now the price is even nicer! Use promo code FIREWORKS25 at checkout. This Porter Jacket, black/white or taupe/ivory caught my eye as a nice staple to have for various seasons. Wrapping it with a belt as seen below is a great idea.

—Sézane’s Adeline Low Sandals, natural heritage leather

One more pair of sandals, but this time flats.

—Wiggy Kit’s Tom-Tom Dress

—Wiggy Kit’s Jem Shirt Dress

Television

—Barbara Walters Tell Me Everything, documentary, Hulu

Released last week is a new feature-length documentary produced by Brian Grazer and Ron Howard. The film “examines the broadcast legend Barbara Walter’s pivotal role in the history of journalism and her pioneering example for women in the industry.” Have a look at the trailer below.

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Summer has arrived! And so we headed to the farmers’ market, as seen above, to pick up fresh veg & fruit along with a treat from a favorite bakery. Nelle doesn’t hesitate to find a cool spot or place to rest while we stand in line, and while our weather has been wonderfully moderate this week (upper 60s to mid 70s), I know much of the country and elsewhere was sweltering, so we were grateful for the cool before the hot that will inevitably come our way.

Progress is moving along well on the Intro to French Cooking course. I will try to share a few ‘behind the scenes’ photos on IG as we move into July, so be sure to follow along with either @thesimplyluxuriouslife or @tsllcookingshow, and if you missed last week’s T & T, here is the link to the FAQ about the course (you can also find it on the Classes page in the blog’s menu bar).

Already June is about to conclude, which is hard to believe for some reason, but that means here we go into the heart of all things warm, leisure, travel, and any of the descriptors that come to mind when summer is mentioned. Someone asked me recently what I would be doing this summer, and I happily said, staying in Bend! I feel fortunate to be able to do so, and look forward to a slower pace to give all my attention (well, most) to the projects I have been wanting to bring to TSLL for some time – I promise to find some time to just be.

How did summer kick off for you? I hope very well indeed, and perhaps with a book or two paired with time to read while losing all track of time as well. There is just something wonderful about whiling away a warm day with a good book. Speaking of which, come Tuesday, a new A Cuppa Moments will be shared and my latest favorite book that I devoured will be shared along with all of the other books, finds, walks and paddles with Nelle and much more (learn more about becoming a TOP Tier Member and all of the benefits which include access to exclusive content such as A Cuppa Moments).

Thank you for stopping by today, and below are a few articles and an interview I thought you might enjoy. May your weekend be filled with enjoyment of fresh nibbles picked straight off the vine, leisurely moments of rejuvenation and of course, oodles of everyday moments to savor. Until Monday, bonne journée.

~Spend less time and effort gardening with these pro gardener hacks for a beautiful low-maintenance space [Gardens Illustrated]

~And I especially found this list spot-on – tips for a low maintenance, yet absolutely beautiful and lush garden [The Middle-Sized Garden]

~Beauty, unique and luxurious places to stay in Dorset [House & Garden UK]

~Have a look at the winning design for the new memorial for Queen Elizabeth II memorial that will be placed in Saint James Park [NPR}

~The joy of the office packed lunch [FT.com, subscription may be required]

~Dine faux pas free in France with the help of local etiquette [Food + Wine]

~Home tour of the week: An Edwardian home in the Pacific Heights in San Francisco is full of detail to keep your eye busy, and artistic touches, complete with an abundance of thoughtful color. [Vogue Living]

~My favorite read this week: Travel more, live longer, according to travel writer Paul Theroux [CNTraveler]

~Saving this post – where interior design editors buy their antiques and vintage treasures [H & G UK]

~This summer salad looks absolutely delicious and super simple – Gill Meller’s tomato, egg, bread and herb salad [Country Life]

~Paris’ Prettiest Squares during the summer [Hip Paris]

~For all sorts of reasons I adore Katharine Hepburn, and in this article, Architectural Digest shares photos of her domestic life.

~Phyllis Logan talks about the conclusion of Downton Abbey and about her new leading role in Murder Most Puzzling.

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~Explore last week’s This & That: June 20, 2025

~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.