Become a Member for as little as $4/mo and enjoy unlimited reading of TSLL blog.
Two new films, both set in England, one in present day and one set in the historic past. An array of novels as well as books to help you garden, welcome tranquility into your home, and deepen your inner peace. Two new television series starring familiar faces of comedy, designer clothing for spring sophisticated style on steep reduction, a magazine of note for lovers of vintage and antiques, and still, much more.
Books
—The Final Problem: A Novel by Arturo Perez-Reverte
I learned about this caper while reading the New York Times Book Review last weekend, and it caught my interest because it involves a bit of Sherlock Holmes’ sleuthing and storytelling skills, with the narrator deriving a semblance of his name from one of Sir Conan Doyle’s characters. The Final Problem is set in “June, 1960. Rough weather at sea leaves a group of strangers stranded on the idyllic Greek island of Utakos, all guests of the only local hotel. Nothing could prepare them for what happens next: Edith Mander, a quiet British tourist, is found dead inside a beach cabana. What appears at first glance to be a clear suicide reveals possible signs of foul play to Ormond Basil, an out-of-work but still well-known actor who, in his glory days, portrayed the most celebrated detective of all time. Accustomed to seeing him display Sherlock Holmes’ amazing powers of deduction on the big screen, the other guests believe that the actor is the best equipped to uncover the truth.”
And with that, the plot begins, eventually leading us to a second body, and a conclusion that delivers a “revelatory twist that will shock even the sharpest of mystery fans.”
Released on February 10th, I think this would be a wonderful read.
—Judy Blume: A Life by Mark Oppenheimer
Being released on Tuesday, March 10th, is a much-anticipated biography chosen as an Editor’s Pick by many booksellers, about author Judy Blume. “In Judy Blume, journalist, historian, and longtime Blume aficionado Mark Oppenheimer pens a beautiful, multidimensional portrait of the acclaimed author through extensive interviews with Blume herself, invaluable access to her papers and correspondence, and thoughtful analysis of Blume’s beloved novels, including early, unpublished works that shed light on the pathbreaking writer she would become. Oppenheimer goes deep, exploring Blume’s middle-class 1950s upbringing, complicated childhood, varied relationships and marriages, unabashed sexual experiences, bouts of heartache and loss, and enduring legacy as a champion of free speech and contemporary literature. Oppenheimer peels back the curtain to reveal the woman behind the literary empire in all her complex, multifaceted glory—a true gift for anyone who grew up reading and loving these extraordinary books.”
—Making Home Your Happy Place: A Real-Life Guide to Decluttering Without the Overwhelm by Katy Wells
A big thank you to long-time reader and member of TSLL Deborah L. for bringing this book to my attention as she rightly thought it would be of interest to many fellow readers. Making Home Your Happy Place was released last month from Katy Wells, mom and host of the top-rated The Maximized Minimalist podcast.
In her new book, she shares how to overcome overwhelm with actionable strategies to break through mental and physical clutter, so you can regain control and start moving forward; declutter with confidence by using proven techniques to tackle your home with clear, actionable steps that will bring immediate results and visible progress; uncover the deeper roots of clutter by identifying the emotional ties, limiting beliefs, and habits that keep you stuck—and learn how to release them with clarity and compassion; and create effortless systems to maintain a peaceful home that works for you, making organizing feel natural and sustainable in your everyday life.”
—The Monk and The Butterfly – 60 Beautiful Stories of Zen: Embracing Mindfulness, Inner Peace, and Personal Growth, A Journey Through Change and Letting Go by Kai T. Murano
Released back in 2024, The Monk and the Butterfly is a book to read through gradually, essay by essay, perhaps as a daily reading meditation. “Rooted in Zen philosophy and Buddhist wisdom, these stories speak to anyone seeking a slower rhythm, a deeper breath, or a more grounded way to meet the world. You don’t need a background in Zen to find something here. Just a willingness to pause. Inside this book, you’ll find reflections on how to: Practice mindfulness in everyday moments; Let go of control and live with more ease; Cultivate inner peace—even when life is uncertain; Embrace simplicity, silence, and the space between thoughts; and Gently learn how to return to the present, again and again.”
—Quiet Strength: Find Peace, Feel Alive, and Love Boundlessly Through the Power of Equanimity by Margaret Cullen
Perhaps a perfect companion to The Monk and The Butterfly is this new book – Quiet Strength – that is being released this coming Tuesday, March 10th. Exploring equanimity, which is a foundational part of Buddhism, Margaret Cullen, a meditation teacher and licensed psychotherapist, “reveals scientific breakthroughs and spiritual intersections that demonstrate how the power of equanimity allows us to live more fully, with balance and wisdom.”
What exactly is equanimity? Great question. “Equanimity is characterized by non-reactivity and clear seeing and has the power to help us navigate the biggest dramas in our lives—not by ignoring them (or reacting in more fiery ways) but by being present with, and open to, all the very real struggles of being human without being hijacked by them. Equanimity is a profound and powerful force that can transform our responses to the events of our lives and in the world at large—and effect change inside our hearts and in all our interactions. Featuring guided meditations, cutting edge research and fascinating insights from experts across a range of fields, Quiet Strength sparks curiosity and engagement with the practice of equanimity.”
—Saoirse: A Novel by Charleen Hurtubise
Released last week, Saoirse, a novel set in 1999, takes place between the United States and Ireland and centers around a woman who runs from her traumatic past and the secrets she carries to survive. “In Michigan, Sarah’s childhood was defined by fear and silence. As a teenager, she saw a chance to escape and took it. Now, in 1999, she is an artist living on the rugged coast of Donegal, Ireland, where she is known as Saoirse.”
“When her artwork wins unexpected acclaim at a Dublin exhibition, the spotlight of fame threatens to unravel the careful lies that hold her world together. Journalists and admirers begin to ask questions about the mysterious artist from Donegal, and she fears the unwanted publicity will expose all that she has done.”
British Finds
—Barbour Mackworth Check Casual Jacket
A statement piece, while also being a timeless piece, this Barbour jacket is available at a fair price from a luxury designer, and you can shop here in the US, or click the link above for the UK online site.
—Can You Keep A Secret? BBC/Paramount
People have been raving about this new series that premiered in January in the UK and is also on Paramount+. The talented and beyond-hilarious British comedian Dawn French stars in Can You Keep A Secret? as “a granny who fakes her husband’s death for insurance money, until her family learns the real danger is her.” There isn’t much more to say about the plot than that. Take a look at the trailer below, and if you enjoy the series, good news! It has already been renewed for a second!
—Homes & Antiques, magazine
Well, where have I been? This British magazine came to my attention while I was flipping through my new subscription to Gardens Illustrated, and it looks fantastic for anyone who, like me, enjoys adding a few antiques as well as vintage pieces here and there to my home. Or second-hand treasures refurbished!
The team of writers and staff is located in Bristol, and they have made Homes & Antiques “the trusted magazine for those with a passion for living with antiques. With more than 25 years as the only newsstand title that focuses on buying and displaying antiques, as well as the fascinating stories behind them, H&A is an inspirational sourcebook that our loyal readers think of as their bible.”
—How Does Your Garden Grow? The elements of planning, growing & caring for a garden by Milli Proust
Now, this is a resource book for new and seasoned gardeners. British gardener Milli Proust has created a helpful guide for doing just as her title suggests – planning, growing and caring for the garden you have – i.e. the soil, climate, etc. – the details we cannot change.
Milli Proust herself is someone who learned how to garden by being a student of experience in her own garden. “Over the course of a decade, Milli has transformed from a beginner to a renowned flower grower, experimenting with different combinations, building new beds, and working with existing ones. This book is a compilation of all the knowledge and lessons Milli has learned over the years, aimed at guiding new and budding gardeners, who aspire to grow in a way that brings them beauty and joy throughout the year.”
Being released on the 10th, this is a book to gift to yourself.
I learned about this new film while listening to Classic FM, and I am so glad I did, as it looks wonderful. Martin Clunes (Doc Martin) stars alongside James Buckley, Mark Addy, Luke Treadaway, Gabriella Wilde, and Jonno Davies in Mother’s Pride, a film about “the Harley family who, after losing their matriarch, must come together to save their pub and village through the art of beer-brewing.” Have a look at the trailer below, and if you’re in the UK, it premieres today in theaters! Enjoy!
—Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man
Cillian Murphy returns in the film of Peaky Blinders to pick up where the long-running television series left off (running between 2013-2022). The film begins during World War II, and Tommy Shelby (Murphy) has come back to a bombed Birmingham and becomes involved in secret wartime missions based on true events, facing new threats as he reckons with his past and rising national stakes.” Have a look at the trailer below and watch it in theaters beginning today, and stream it on Netflix beginning on March 20th.
—Talking Gardens, podcast
Some TSLL readers have begun to potter in their gardens as spring has gently said hello, and the rest of us will be doing so soon. This also means that TSLL’s monthly gardening series will kick off later this month (Tuesday, March 24th), and to get us ready, a podcast worth checking out – Talking Gardens. It’s Gardens Illustrated show, and it is full of conversations with gardeners that are sure to spark idea, solve conundrums and teach us all sorts of interesting new things.
Décor
—Rejuvenation’s Atticus LED Table Lamp, two sizes
A wireless lamp with style and sophistication. Rejuvenation’s Atticus is a modern take on 1920s Bauhaus styles, featuring “a utilitarian yet elegant silhouette with a sleek stem and dome shade. Both size lamps are dimmable and the 12″ lamp is rechargable.”
Shopping
—Aimé’s Jamie Haller Penny Loafer, many colors
A classic shoe, one to have for many years, that will mold to your foot with each outing. An investment for comfort and style.
—Badgley Mischka Guipure lace midi dress, 60% off
Spring is just about here, and the silhouette of Badgley Mischka’s lace midi dress offers a timeless design.
—The Citizenry’s Totora Floor Basket, on sale
A flexible basket, easy to carry with grab and hold together handles or sit comfortably on the ground and keep a room tidy.
—COS Monument leather tote bag
A large tote without being too large. Modern and en trend in its envelope shape, but spacious to enable room to carry what you need for your day.
—J.Crew’s Collarless Denim Trucker Jacket, on sale
A more dressed-up take on a classic denim jacket.
—Mikael Aghal Floral-print cotton-poplin shirt dress, 55% off
Another designer dress perfect for spring, and on drastic reduction from The Outnet.
Television
—Rooster, HBO
Steve Carell stars in Rooster, a new comedy series, as a bestselling author who attempts to help his daughter (Charly Clive), a college professor who is going through a rough patch, to say the least, with her husband. Carell arrives on campus to navigate his relationship with his daughter, which repeatedly leads to comedic moments, as you will see hinted at in the trailer. The series premieres on Sunday, March 8th, and includes 10 episodes.
Art has been on the mind this week, both here on the blog and here at Le Papillon, as we have been discussing parquet flooring designs (moving back into the office this weekend! Wahoo!). It has been an absolute treat as I have been learning more about the history of each design and listening to my builder talk about what would work best with my house’s layout. More details about what we came up with later (yep, another small project will be happening as I still have so many oak wood pieces left over from the office – trying to figure out how to put them to good use). Speaking of art, I took a moment yesterday afternoon to head to a local coffee/tea (thé pour moi SVL!) shop, sit outside with Nelle, and watch the full Dior runway show (more details below in our links’ list), but needless to say, I let myself be vicariously swept away to Paris for a moment. Jonathan Anderson (Dior’s recently hired creative director) put on a beautiful show full of lovely pieces.
This week on the blog has been a regular full week with a new podcast episode sharing the many health and life benefits of daily doses of art (and sharing the oodles of forms art takes in our lives, moreso than we may have imagined and likely, we are already doing more than we realized), a new novel that is quickly becoming noticed for good reason both in the UK and here in the states and was chosen as the Petit Plaisir, with the 1st of the month taking place, a new A Cuppa Moments conversation has begun with TOP Tier Members and we’re talking about the topic of the week as inspired by the book the directed episode #421, and we kicked the week off with a Motivation post about how to approach Tough Decisions. A week brimming with content to explore!
Now, to the weekend, a time to settle, to search, or perhaps a bit of both, or anything in between. May yours bring you ease, enjoyment, and oodles of everyday moments to savor. Thank you for stopping by today, and below are more than a few links and one video I thought you might enjoy. Until Sunday, bonne journée.
~Fashion Month has made its way to Paris, and British designer Sarah Burton (who designed Princess of Wales’ wedding dress), who is now the creative director of Givenchy, gave a lovely interview with The Financial Times, along with a few peeks into her north London home. Beautiful to say the least, rich in gem tones, while also being livable. I think you will enjoy both –the conversation and the tour.
~The benefits of small talk with strangers. Yes, connect with your fellow passerby or standing-in-line-together-with person [NYTimes, gift link]
~The winner of Paris Baguette Grand Prix 2026!, along with the honorable mentions, so many boulangeries to take note of for your next visit to the city. [Sortir à Paris]
~Eight reasons a room may feel ‘off’ even if nothing is wrong. The psychology of decorating a room for welcome, calm and ease to the eye. [Nadine Stay]
~Speaking of home decor that feels good to the mind. Have you heard of neurodivergent ‘brain-kind’ design? I hadn’t either until I read this article, but it speaks to so much of what we talk about when it comes to cultivating a sanctuary. [House Beautiful]
~Harrison Ford, while accepting his Lifetime Achievement award at the Actor’s Awards this past weekend, gave a speech worth having a listen to (here is a clip of one of the best bits, and here is the full speech). Coincidentally, he/his character inspired this week’s Monday Motivational post’s theme.
~If you live in or will be in Britain this month, here is a list of Antique Fairs throughout the UK. [Homes and Antiques]
~Will you be in Provence this spring? Here is a list of Spring Festivals of note! [Perfectly Provence]
~And if you will be in Paris in March, a list of things to do, shared by HiP Paris
~Will you be in Paris this June? If so, make sure to walk across Paris’s oldest bridge. That would be Pont Neuf, and it will be transformed, temporarily, into an art installation. Learn more about what it will become and who the artist is here. [Time Out]
~If you are traveling by train in Paris, and specifically at either Gare de l’Est and the Gare du Nord, be sure to visit the new food destination for a delicious bite without the fuss – Deux Gares Express, which just opened this past October. [Monocle]
~A simple sleep habit to incorporate into your daily sleep routine for strengthened health and longevity. [NYTimes, gift link]
~How to add a touch of luxe to your kitchen [Homes & Garden UK]
~France held their Academy Awards equivalent this past weekend, the Césars, and here is a recap of all that was recognized, who hosted and more. [Frenchly]
~If you will be traveling by train outside of Paris, throughout France, here is a list of a handful of the many gorgeous gares to include on your itinerary to pass through. [France Today]
~I want to thank a handful of TSLL readers who sent me IG posts featuring unique invitations to Dior’s Fall 2026 show in Paris. What a detailed and immediately recognizable detail they included (see the invitation here). This quintessentially Parisian detail, found at the location of the show – Les Jardin des Tuileries, will, I have a feeling bring a smile. Here is a detailed write-up about the show, which was largely praised. [NYTimes, gift link]
~Favorite read of the week – Oliver Sacks on the Three Essential Elements of Creativity [The Marginalian]
~Since art was a theme this week in many of our posts and topics of conversation, I thought this video would be a perfect way to conclude the week – this 500-square-foot Victorian flat in London is filled with art. Lyndsey Ingram is a gallerist and walks us through how she made her home truly hers. Both in the intro and conclusion, she offers some worthwhile advice on choosing the art we welcome into our homes, echoing what Daisy Fancourt discusses in her book Art Cure, which inspired this week’s podcast episode, #421. Enjoy.
~Explore last week’s edition of This & That, February 27th
Wow, so many new series on television, and we’ll explore at least eight of them – something for everyone. Also, of course, there are books! Books about Paris leading up to WWII and a writer we may not know much about, novels involving family sagas and self-discovery, history books to learn more about the women often overlooked, and a favorite author is back with what looks to be another wonderful, thought-provoking read about love. Also, a new art exhibit in London spotlighting a French artist gone too soon, and clothing for pre-spring and timeless accessories. 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.
