Two new holiday films, books for lovers of history and romance, books about relationships and confidence as well as a gardening book that green-thumbs on your list will love. And there are still more subjects to explore in the titles shared this week. Also, a new podcast from a British voice you will no doubt recognize, sales on all sorts of finds for Francophiles, and shopping for clothes, tech, skincare, and more, and to get us started, a holiday song that will prompt you to start tapping your toes and get into the spirit of the season.

Enjoy listening as you peruse this week’s edition of This & That! (I’ll share more details about the song at the end of today’s post – I played it on repeat as I wrote this week’s edition of T&T 🙃).

Books

—Bookstores of the World: The Ultimate Around-the-World Tour for Bibliophiles and Bookshop Lovers by Jean-Yves Mollier  and Patricia Sorel 

This book. If you have a bibliophile on your gift list, or are a bibliophile and traveling is also a favorite pastime, this is a book to welcome into the library. Released in October, Bookstores of the World is a “tribute to the bookstores of the world and the book begins in France―which has the most bookstores per capita of any country―and continues throughout Europe, the Americas, the Near East, Asia, and Africa. Along the way we encounter legendary emporia such as City Lights in San Francisco and Foyle’s in London, as well as new innovators such as the architecturally breathtaking Zhongshuge in Hangzhou. The insightful text explores the factors that have shaped bookselling in each region, from the price-fixing laws of France and Germany to the cultural and geographic diversity of the United States.”

Yet another reason to love France. 😌🇫🇷❤️

—Confidence: Eight Steps to Knowing Your Worth by Roxie Nafousi

A new book from an author who inspired this episode of the podcast (#348), Roxi Nafousi’s Confidence, will be released on December 2nd. Sharing eight steps to developing a deep, long-lasting confidence, she addresses how to break free from comparison, how to master your thoughts, act with intention, and stop trying to be liked by everyone.

“Confidence is at the foundation of everything we do. It’s the invisible power that propels you to dream bigger, take bold risks, and create a life you truly love.” This book looks to be a helpful resource that overlaps so much of what it means to live a life of true contentment.

—It Begins with You: The 9 Hard Truths About Love That Will Change Your Life by Jillian Turecki 

While released back in January, Jillian Turecki’s book It Begins with You continues to be a book readers find valuable for taking control of what we can do in love and letting go (stop fretting) about what we cannot. “If you want a meaningful relationship filled with connection, security, and intimacy, you have to look within. The common denominator in all your relationships is you. Drawing from decades of experience helping clients heal themselves and their relationships, It Begins with You introduces the nine core truths we must accept to change our lives:

• Truth 1: It begins with you.
• Truth 2: The mind is a battlefield.
• Truth 3: Lust is not the same thing as love.
• Truth 4: You have to love yourself.
• Truth 5: You must speak up and tell the truth. 
• Truth 6: You need to be your best self (even after the honeymoon). 
• Truth 7: You cannot convince someone to love you. 
• Truth 8: No one is coming to save you.
• Truth 9: You must make peace with your parents.

I am noticing a similar set of skills appearing in both the books mentioned this week so far: mastering the mind, self-knowledge, and courage. Along with so many other skills we choose to learn, we really do have the potential to bring the love we seek into our lives.

—The Kindest Garden: A practical Guide to Regenerative Gardening by Marian Boswall

To garden is to love the earth, to work with it, to nurture it, and, in leading landscape designer Marian Boswall’s new book, The Kindest Garden, she seeks to teach us exactly how to do all of this. Having worked on some of the UK’s most ambitious and innovative regenerative landscape projects, “she shares her wisdom in this trail-blazing guide. A step-up from sustainable gardening, which focuses on minimising our impact on the earth, regenerative gardening is about making an active contribution to the health of the planet: improving and replenishing biodiversity through our gardens.

“Whether you have a shady patio, a large plot of land or a windowsill – you can make an impact. Drawing on lessons from forward-thinking farmers, foresters, re-wilders and nature itself, The Kindest Garden shows you how to create a garden that is both a beautiful sanctuary for yourself and also a place where nature can thrive. Come to understand the key elements of your garden (soil, water, ecosystems, materials, energy and planting) on a deeper level and discover how to harness each one for a garden that makes a positive impact. Apply new-found knowledge to practical projects, and plan your planting to nourish the soil.”

—The Queen’s Musician: A Novel by Martha Jean Johnson

Inspired by history, The Queen’s Musician, a novel released back in May, is one to pick up if you love English history, romance, and intrigue. “A glamorous queen, a volatile king, a gifted musician concealing a forbidden romance. Everyone knows Anne Boleyn’s story. No one knows Mark Smeaton’s.

“On May 17, 1536, a young court musician was executed, accused of adultery and treason with the queen. Most historians believe both he and Anne Boleyn were innocent—victims of Henry VIII’s rage.

“Mark Smeaton was a talented performer who rose from poverty to become a royal favorite. He played for the king in private and entertained at sumptuous feasts. He witnessed Anne Boleyn’s astonishing rise and fall—her reign of a thousand days. History tells us little about him, other than noting his confession and execution. The Queen’s Musician imagines his story, as seen from his perspective and that of the young woman who loves him. It all takes place amid the spectacle and danger of the Tudor court.”

British Finds

—A Year At Highclere: Secrets and Stories from the Real Downton Abbey by The Countess of Carnarvon 

In this new book – A Year At Highclere, discover for the first time “the daily rhythms, seasonal changes and timeless traditions of one of Britain’s most iconic stately homes”.

“With the passing months and seasons, Lady Carnarvon reveals what it truly means to live and work in this extraordinary home. From gardening, entertaining, exploring the outdoors with their eight dogs and opening the gates to a film crew – for many weeks and seasons – culminating in the latest Downton Abbey film. Highclere is where history, royalty, nature, and community weave together in a tapestry as rich as the castle itself.”

—Ill-Advised podcast by Bill Nighy

When the holidays arrive, I cannot help but think of Bill Nighy’s character in Love, Actually, and remember not to take everything so seriously. A chuckle always erupts as I watch him attempt to sing his new holiday single and mess up far too many times exactly as designed. And now, we have the actor in podcast form. Bill Nighy’s show, Ill-Advised, is just as it sounds – for the awkward, irreverent, and imperfect. As he shares, “if you are socially adept and enjoy healthy relationships, there’s nothing for you here.”

—Somewhere, a Boy and a Bear: A. A. Milne and the Creation of “Winnie-the-Pooh” by Gyles Brandreth

Being released on Tuesday (December 2nd), already available in the UK, Somehwere, a Boy, and a Bear is the biography of A A Milne, a playwright, a bestselling crime writer, poet, polemicist, humorist, and the man who created Winnie-the-Pooh.

“Gyles Brandreth explores “Winnie-the-Pooh,” a bear beloved by millions: his genesis, his life across a hundred years, his special philosophy, and the reasons for his worldwide popularity. Brandreth’s book is also the intimate biography of three generations of the fascinating and troubled Milne family, which knew fame and fortune, despising both for a time, but a family that ultimately found a profound reason to be grateful for the riches Pooh brought them.”

—Tinsel Town

Set in a small English village, Kiefer Sutherland starts out as the Grinch of the holidays, but gradually finds his festive heart. As “a washed-up Hollywood action hero, he begrudgingly takes a role in a small English village’s quirky Christmas pantomime, where he finds unexpected inspiration through the show’s straight-talking dance instructor (Rebel Wilson).” Find it in theaters and on Sky TV on December 5th. Have a look at the trailer below.

Films

—Oh. What. Fun.

Another holiday film to enjoy, this one starring Michelle Pfeiffer. Premiering exclusively on Amazon Prime, Oh. What. Fun. pokes fun at all the expectations and responsibilities placed on moms. Void of romanticizing, Pfeiffer’s character, “Claire plans a special Christmas, but is forgotten by her family. When they realize that she’s missing, their holiday is at risk until she returns to give them the celebration they deserve.” Have a look at the trailer below and watch it beginning December 3rd.

Francophile Finds

—Carrière Frères Black Friday Sale, 30% off

One of my favorite French candle brands is having a worthwhile sale to check out. While not everything is on sale, the candles that are are lovely. Use BF2025 to save 25% and have a look at a few of the scents on sale below. One detail I appreciate about this brand is that you can buy refills for your favorite scents to keep the candle holder and pay less after the initial purchase.

—Clé de Peau Black Friday Sale, 25% off everything

Last year I began using Clé de Peau’s concealer after learning about its high quality and long-lasting coverage without being ‘cakey’. Well, I am now a fan and have just taken advantage of their sale to save 25%. You receive quite a bit of concealer (mine lasted a year, and I use it everyday), and since the concealer isn’t cheap, this is a sale of note. All of their other products are on sale as well.

~SHOP THE SALE:

—Mara Paris’s Lunar Large Hinged Earrings In Gold Vermeil, on sale

A French jewelry brand with simple, as well as statement, and signature pieces, their holiday sale includes these Lunar Hinged Earrings, which are both classic and modern. Wear with everyday outfits or a formal outfit for an understated, yet full of quiet confidence look.

—Marin Montagut’s Green Flora Coffee Scarf, limited edition

A big Merci Beaucoup! to TSLL reader Diana M. for bringing this treasure of a find to my attention. Available for a limited time due to limited stock, Marin Montagut’s silk Flora coffee Scarf is both a functional and fun accessory. Thank you again, Diana ☺️.

—My French Country Home Box, February (The Art of Antiquing), No. 37

While box no. 36 is arriving as I type, Box No. 37 is ready to order, and it looks like a wonderful gift to give and receive. With Sharon Santoni’s third book to be released this coming Spring, centering entirely on antiquing in France, the new box’s content is thematically aligned – The Art of Antiquing.

Shopping

—Alba Cable Knit Puffer, Marine Layer (two colors)

—Devon Jumper, Cotton, many colors from With Nothing Underneath

A cotton nautical sweater to transition the wardrobe needs from autumn to winter and winter to spring.

—Lexi Rib Sun-In Longsleeve Crew Tee, many colors and stripes too

More stripes, but this time in the form of a long-sleeve ribbed crew tee.

—Madewell w/Alexa Chung – Lou Poplin Shirt, two colors

Television

~With Love, Meghan: Holiday Celebration, Netflix

On Wednesday (December 3rd), the Duchess of Sussex shares a special holiday episode of her lifestyle show, With Love, Meghan. Guests in this special episode include , Naomi Osaka, Tom Colicchio, Will Guidara, Kelly Zajfen, and Lindsay Roth. Have a look at the trailer below!

Black Friday Sales

Now, for even more sales: while I am barely scratching the surface with this list, below are brands I trust, along with some specific items I recommend.

~Alo, Save 30% off site-wide

• My go-to black yoga pants are from Alo, purchased a couple of years ago and still they are used and loved. Shop all long yoga pants here.

—Athleta, 30% off everything

~Anthropologie, 30% off everything

~Ayr, 20% off everything

• Have my eyes on their Legend jeans (three washes) as well as their Tate oxford shirts (many colors)

~Banana Republic, 40% off site-wide

~Banana Republic Factory, 60% off everything

~Best Buy

• last year I purchased my Apple iPad during their sale along with my detachable keypad (sand color) – nice savings and still loving both products

~Béis luggage, 30% off site-wide

~Boden, between 20-40% off everything

~Brora, 25% off site-wide

• Beautiful Fair Isle sweaters, love these pajamas, and this cable knit sweater could be worn for years

~COS, 25% off site-wide

~Dyson, save up to $300 on vacuums, hair care products also on sale

• My Dyson V8 was purchased back in 2019 and still works like a dream. The customer service is wonderful and quick. One of the best investment purchases for keeping the house clean.

~Eric Bompard, up to 30% off selected items

• This herringbone print stole is 30% off and gorgeous, a lifetime purchase.

~Frame, 30% off site-wide

~Marion Parke shoes, 25% off site-wide

• beautiful suede slingbacks (other colors in leather as well), as well as boots, pumps and kitten heels

~Hugo Boss, up to 40% off

• Their relaxed fit, trousers in light-weight wool (dark navy) is in my closet and was worn regularly while in Paris last March. Wonderful fit, length and comfort.

~J.Crew, 50% off site-wide, plus additional savings on cashmere, suiting and chinos

~Lululemon, significant savings, up to 60% off

• These leggings are super lightweight, have a pocket for my phone and are comfortable, yet ideal for both running and yoga.

~Sandro, 30% off +an additional 10%

• This wool/cashmere blend turtleneck sweater looks perfect for casual, timeless, yet signature style, and this navy and green checked cap.

~Sarah Flint, 30% off everything, use promo code SALEOFTHEYEAR

• Finally their nude, classic pumps are on a significant discount! The padding in their insoles makes the heels very comfortable to wear.

~Sézane, enjoy $20 off your order of $100 or more with code MERCI2025

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Yum! Thanksgiving dinner, Nelle says, was delicious! I hope yours was as well if you were celebrating, and as we step fully into the holiday season, let the deliciousness continue!

This past week saw nearly all of the illustrations for TSLL’s 4th book come to completion, only the cover remains (and it is nearly done!), and a Thanksgiving day that began with yoga with fellow Bendites followed by a walk with Nelle with many other Bendites out taking their pre-turkey run (we were walking), and then home to finish up the This & That before enjoying a savory special dinner (check out the dishes made in the IG Stories for both @thesimplyluxuriouslife and @tsllkitchen). Phew, and oh so special it was. Simple and cozy.

Over the coming weekend, I look forward to shopping at local businesses while also donating all of our pumpkins to the Harmony Farm Sanctuary – a special place in our local area that cares for animals, giving them their forever home. Even if you don’t live in the area, you can donate and support their cause. The animals will thank you!

I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving, full of love, cheer, and much to savor. And as we look ahead, may the upcoming weekend be full of delightful surprises, snuggling in, and lots of hugs and kisses from and to loved ones. Thank you for stopping by today, and until Monday, bonne journée.

~The recipe of the season – cozy and decadent – Gingerbread Cheesecake. Yes and yum! ☺️ [NYTimes Cooking, gift link]

~I always enjoy seeing how artists live, and it is this artist’s library who lives in a Victorian house in northeast London (and the vintage ladder) that captured my awe in this home tour. [House & Garden UK]

~Maybe you’re shifting your approach to the holidays this year, and if so, or if you are pondering how (and why) to do it, explore Opting Out of the Holiday Stress Olympics from Positive Prescription.

~How to decorate with sentimentality – finding the right balance. I quite love the kitchen example in this article [House & Garden UK]

~Did you watch the season finale of The Morning Show, and as Marion Cottilard’s character mentioned, she was being sent to Cap Ferret, as if to sound as though it was a punishment, and wonder, is it really though? (Enjoyed having her be part of this season, didn’t you?) Learn more about this special destination situated in the Atlantic on the southwestern edge of France. [CNTraveler]

~A wonderful read and reminder to live now, fully, savoring and that you are doing enough – When You’re Tired of Fixing Yourself: How to Stop Treating Healing Like a Full-Time Job [Tiny Buddha]

~If you wanted to pick up an Inslee Calendar or any of her prints, use promo code CHEERS25 and save 25%!

~The Chelsea Flower Show will draw a new audience this coming year I have a feeling as it was just announced that David Beckham will be collaborating on a garden with Alan Titchmarsh and Frances Tophill. Learn more here. [Gardeners World]

~It’s time to save when we travel in comfort! British Airway’s Autumn sale just began and will conclude quite quickly – by December 3rd, so be sure to scoop up the saving if Britain, France or other dream destinations are on your gift list this year.

~Speaking of traveling to Britain, I am saving this article that shares 12 glorious British gardens to visit in winter. [House & Garden UK]

~Further inspiration to check our phone less – to keep our brain healthy! [Washington Post, subscription may be required]

~With Emily in Paris’ new season just around the corner, Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu is the cover star of Elle Canada, and her quote in this IG post is a good reminder to just be ourselves without expectation or seeking approval.

~Wanting to get into the spirit of the season, I watched the holiday episodes of the Great British Bake-Off, and Paloma Faith brought the music to one of the episodes, singing this song – Christmas Prayer. Quite catchy, you just can’t help but want to dance. Have a listen to her duet with Gregory Porter in its original production – you can purchase the song here.

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~Explore last week’s edition of This & That: November 21st

~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.