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French Illusions #2
From Tours to Paris
I’m Free. Life is good…until it isn’t. Still determined to learn French and fulfill her dream of becoming an international flight attendant, Linda puts her disastrous stint as an au pair behind her. She finds lodging, enrolls at the French institute, and spends eight glorious days with Adam before he leaves for the holidays. When he returns, his shocking announcement propels her in a different direction. Purchase the second and final book in the French Illusions Series now, with one click, and join Linda as she struggles with money, faces challenges at school, and learns some tough lessons about life and love.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 29, 2015
43 people are currently reading
329 people want to read
About the author
Linda Kovic-Skow
4 books248 followersLinda Kovic-Skow is an award-winning nonfiction travel author of French Illusions: My Story as an American Au Pair in the Loire Valley - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2..., and French Illusions: From Tours to Paris - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2....
Originally from Seattle, she currently lives in Saint Petersburg, Florida. She has been married for 39 years and she has two daughters and three grandchildren. An enthusiastic traveler, Linda also enjoys hiking, boating, gardening and socializing with friends. French Illusions: My Story as an American Au Pair in the Loire Valley, is her debut memoir and the culmination of a three-year project. The sequel, French Illusions: From Tours to Paris, recounts the rest of her adventure in France.
Originally from Seattle, she currently lives in Saint Petersburg, Florida. She has been married for 39 years and she has two daughters and three grandchildren. An enthusiastic traveler, Linda also enjoys hiking, boating, gardening and socializing with friends. French Illusions: My Story as an American Au Pair in the Loire Valley, is her debut memoir and the culmination of a three-year project. The sequel, French Illusions: From Tours to Paris, recounts the rest of her adventure in France.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
September 16, 2023
Oh to be young and in love, and in the most romantic country in the world! This follows directly on from book one. Linda's life in France hasn't quite been what she hoped for, but with the assistance of friends she manages to realize her dream of learning to speak French. I loved reading about Linda's love life, her triumphs and disappointments. Having only visited Tours very briefly, I was fascinated by her descriptions of the city. And being a lover of Paris, I adored her experience of The City of Light. I was also pleased with the footnote, which wrapped up the loose ends. Definitely recommended for anyone who loves France, memoirs or romance.
May 3, 2015
Hopefully you read book one of French illusions--if so it left you wanting the story to continue. At the end of book 1 Linda is moving, she wants to stay in France and convinces her parents to continue to support her so she can stay another year. Beside wanting more time to learn French she definitely doesn't want to leave her boyfriend behind and France is a pretty cool place to live. How wonderful to have lunch sitting outside a beautiful café by the river--every day!! So life was pretty good, school was good, friends were good, France was good and then Christmas came. Great happenings here but I am not going to tell you--so proud of Linda. So much I could say--remember this is a memoir not fiction. Linda finds her own apartment (in a house) and life is looking good--handsome boyfriend who seems to have money to take them places but she is never sure how he makes his money. by the way, her landlord did not really care for the boyfriend--who is the best judge of character here? when he has to go away with a friend to make money she isn't sure if she will see him again but he does return and when she finishes school they move to Paris. Linda has exceeded her time in France that her parents thought she should stay but as a young daughter of loving parents when she calls and not only begs to stay longer but asks for money also her parents agree to a short time. During this short time many things come to light about her boyfriend and I am not going to tell you anymore. As you can tell from the front of the book Linda found the best man ever and they are still happily married (I am lucky and have met both Linda and Alan). I know this review may seem cryptic but it is such a great follow on and I would hate to spoil it. If you haven't read book 1--get it and read it and then read this one, everything will make more sense if you do and you will love them both. I wonder if another book is on the horizon!
August 6, 2016
Usually, I am not much for memoirs, but Linda Kovic-Skow writes such personal and intriguing memoirs that hers are one of my dedicated exceptions to this rule.
From Tours to Paris is an interesting read of a young woman experiencing life and love away from home. From financial worries to matters of the heart, this honest memoir leaves nothing out. Written from the authors journals and her memories, this is a heartfelt book that will keep you turning pages and happily entertained until the very end.
I liked that she included so much emotion in this book, describing her experiences and love affairs both with the city and some genuinely interesting people. This is the kind of book that reminds you good food, good friends and your will to survive trying situations can get you through almost anything. I could identify easily with many of her thoughts and feelings.
Particularly, I was impressed with the way Linda chose to end this book. I didn't feel that anything was left hanging and although I was curious about what happened later in her life, I felt satisfied at the end.
Overall, this was a pleasant and enjoyable read that roused a lot of emotion and curiosity within me. Even if you are not a huge fan of memoirs, this book will most likely still delight you. It gets my vote.
This review is based on a complementary copy from the author, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
From Tours to Paris is an interesting read of a young woman experiencing life and love away from home. From financial worries to matters of the heart, this honest memoir leaves nothing out. Written from the authors journals and her memories, this is a heartfelt book that will keep you turning pages and happily entertained until the very end.
I liked that she included so much emotion in this book, describing her experiences and love affairs both with the city and some genuinely interesting people. This is the kind of book that reminds you good food, good friends and your will to survive trying situations can get you through almost anything. I could identify easily with many of her thoughts and feelings.
Particularly, I was impressed with the way Linda chose to end this book. I didn't feel that anything was left hanging and although I was curious about what happened later in her life, I felt satisfied at the end.
Overall, this was a pleasant and enjoyable read that roused a lot of emotion and curiosity within me. Even if you are not a huge fan of memoirs, this book will most likely still delight you. It gets my vote.
This review is based on a complementary copy from the author, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
June 21, 2015
I read and reviewed Linda Kovic-Skow's first book, French Illusions, a year ago and had been looking forward to reading this sequel. I enjoyed this second book even more than the first because the author was more experienced in life and had mastered enough French to be able to communicate. In fact, the French conversations sprinkled throughout the book (with translations), gave the characters and setting a very authentic feel.
After escaping the nightmarish au pair job that brought her to France, the author moved to Tours and attended a French language school. Her vivid descriptions of the beautiful countryside and architecture, the food and wine, and the people she met made me feel I was actually there with her. And of course being young and living in a romantic country, she fell in love with a man. She spent her time between school, discotheques, visits to tourist attractions and adventures with friends and her boyfriend.
I was about her age in the 1980s, so many of her references to popular music and clothing styles were very familiar. I also remember the casual '80s attitudes about sex and drugs, and I fondly remember how it felt to be responsibility-free, working and playing hard, and money-poor but rich in happiness. This was a time before cell phones, Skype and email, so living far from home meant being out of touch and feeling homesick during holidays. The author had to use public pay phones to place collect calls to her parents, and she spent anxious days waiting for money transfers from home to be able to buy food and pay her rent.
I loved the descriptions of Paris, where she lived for the last six weeks of her time in France. She made me long to see the Eiffel Tower and the Louve for myself. But the part I enjoyed most about this book was the Author's Note at the end, which tells the reader what eventually happened in her life and the lives of the people she knew in France. I think Ms. Kovic-Skow would be a hoot to know in real life, and I enjoyed this glimpse into her fun and turbulent young adult years.
I received a complimentary copy of this book directly from the author, in exchange for writing a review. I wasn't asked to leave a positive review, nor was I paid or otherwise compensated for reviewing this book. I give this book five stars for realistic characters, a peek into the culture of the 1980s, and an insider's view of France.
After escaping the nightmarish au pair job that brought her to France, the author moved to Tours and attended a French language school. Her vivid descriptions of the beautiful countryside and architecture, the food and wine, and the people she met made me feel I was actually there with her. And of course being young and living in a romantic country, she fell in love with a man. She spent her time between school, discotheques, visits to tourist attractions and adventures with friends and her boyfriend.
I was about her age in the 1980s, so many of her references to popular music and clothing styles were very familiar. I also remember the casual '80s attitudes about sex and drugs, and I fondly remember how it felt to be responsibility-free, working and playing hard, and money-poor but rich in happiness. This was a time before cell phones, Skype and email, so living far from home meant being out of touch and feeling homesick during holidays. The author had to use public pay phones to place collect calls to her parents, and she spent anxious days waiting for money transfers from home to be able to buy food and pay her rent.
I loved the descriptions of Paris, where she lived for the last six weeks of her time in France. She made me long to see the Eiffel Tower and the Louve for myself. But the part I enjoyed most about this book was the Author's Note at the end, which tells the reader what eventually happened in her life and the lives of the people she knew in France. I think Ms. Kovic-Skow would be a hoot to know in real life, and I enjoyed this glimpse into her fun and turbulent young adult years.
I received a complimentary copy of this book directly from the author, in exchange for writing a review. I wasn't asked to leave a positive review, nor was I paid or otherwise compensated for reviewing this book. I give this book five stars for realistic characters, a peek into the culture of the 1980s, and an insider's view of France.
July 20, 2015
When I finished reading the first book in this series, my main thought was what happens next? The author did a masterful job of piquing my curiosity and need to find out. From Tours to Paris is the delightful sequel and answer to my question.
As she did in her first book, Linda Kovic-Skow brought me right into her world of romance and adventure and kept me turning the pages through her descriptive and engaging writing. I am with her as a twenty-something experiencing the agony and ecstacy of young love in the City of Love. Her scenic details are exquisite and brought me into the scenes. Her rollercoaster of emotions had me recalling what it was like being twenty-something again. It was an honest and believable portrayal in that she weaves in the realities of dealing with her parents, honoring their wishes as well as the many friendships she forges with her peers while over there. The fact that she made this all work –taking off for France when she didn’t know the language, then extending her stay-is a testament to her resilience, courage and creative imagination. It makes for a very engaging and satisfying read and one I highly recommend
As she did in her first book, Linda Kovic-Skow brought me right into her world of romance and adventure and kept me turning the pages through her descriptive and engaging writing. I am with her as a twenty-something experiencing the agony and ecstacy of young love in the City of Love. Her scenic details are exquisite and brought me into the scenes. Her rollercoaster of emotions had me recalling what it was like being twenty-something again. It was an honest and believable portrayal in that she weaves in the realities of dealing with her parents, honoring their wishes as well as the many friendships she forges with her peers while over there. The fact that she made this all work –taking off for France when she didn’t know the language, then extending her stay-is a testament to her resilience, courage and creative imagination. It makes for a very engaging and satisfying read and one I highly recommend
May 10, 2015
I had the pleasure of editing the first book in this series, French Illusions, so I was thrilled when Linda contacted me and asked me to edit her latest memoir, which is a follow up to Book One.
In some ways, the books are similar: the beauty of France, the spontaneous adventures of being in a foreign country when you are young and untethered, the sheer joy of being in love. For the most part, however, From Tours to Paris is a very different story told in the same elegant and engaging manner. While the first book finds Linda dealing with the consequences of a decision, in From Tours to Paris, the reader watches as she blossoms: moving out on her own, learning French, and meeting new people. In addition, the reader is left sympathizing with her as she is dealt a terrible blow and must once again move in a different direction.
It's always a joy to read Linda's work. I hope she will continue to create more captivating stories for her loyal, and growing, audience.
In some ways, the books are similar: the beauty of France, the spontaneous adventures of being in a foreign country when you are young and untethered, the sheer joy of being in love. For the most part, however, From Tours to Paris is a very different story told in the same elegant and engaging manner. While the first book finds Linda dealing with the consequences of a decision, in From Tours to Paris, the reader watches as she blossoms: moving out on her own, learning French, and meeting new people. In addition, the reader is left sympathizing with her as she is dealt a terrible blow and must once again move in a different direction.
It's always a joy to read Linda's work. I hope she will continue to create more captivating stories for her loyal, and growing, audience.
June 15, 2015
More Fun in France
I have been looking forward to reading this book for quite a while. I enjoyed the first book in the series and I was anxious to read about Linda's adventures after she was fired from her position as a nanny.
Like many young adults, Linda fell in love. She was head over heels for a guy who borrowed money from her and sometimes disappeared for a few days or weeks. The young people and their friends liked to drink, smoke, and party even though they seemed to have a constant cash flow issue.
Linda had gone to France to learn the language and become an airline stewardess. Read the book to find out if she achieved that goal. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well written memoir.
I have been looking forward to reading this book for quite a while. I enjoyed the first book in the series and I was anxious to read about Linda's adventures after she was fired from her position as a nanny.
Like many young adults, Linda fell in love. She was head over heels for a guy who borrowed money from her and sometimes disappeared for a few days or weeks. The young people and their friends liked to drink, smoke, and party even though they seemed to have a constant cash flow issue.
Linda had gone to France to learn the language and become an airline stewardess. Read the book to find out if she achieved that goal. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well written memoir.
July 6, 2018
The moment I finished the first part of "French Illusions" I knew I needed more - what was going to happen with Linda? Where did she end up? What about Adam? What about...?
I didn't enjoy the second part as much as the first, but this was compensated by the fact that I already knew -and cared about- the characters and was deeply into the story, just as if instead of a book this was more of a chat with a friend over a coffee in which you want to know all the details of her life.
Also, I cried a fair share of tears at the end - saying back to Linda, to her friends and to France somehow felt like saying goodbye to a very close friend.
I didn't enjoy the second part as much as the first, but this was compensated by the fact that I already knew -and cared about- the characters and was deeply into the story, just as if instead of a book this was more of a chat with a friend over a coffee in which you want to know all the details of her life.
Also, I cried a fair share of tears at the end - saying back to Linda, to her friends and to France somehow felt like saying goodbye to a very close friend.
August 11, 2015
A complicated few months
As a follow up to French ILLUSIONS, I think this book was more about "ILLUSIONS" than book one because Linda learned so much more about life. Her descriptions of Paris and a 21-year old woman's response to the city made me smile. She was so bold and strong. I admired her decisions and focus on learning French even though her original goal was swallowed in the months living away from family.
As a follow up to French ILLUSIONS, I think this book was more about "ILLUSIONS" than book one because Linda learned so much more about life. Her descriptions of Paris and a 21-year old woman's response to the city made me smile. She was so bold and strong. I admired her decisions and focus on learning French even though her original goal was swallowed in the months living away from family.
May 2, 2015
Another good one
Read first book. A very gutsy woman. Enjoyed it. So when I saw this discussed on We Love Memoirs Facebook page, I got it. Enjoyed it also. Glad Michel did not turn out too badly! Her husband must be amazing!
Read first book. A very gutsy woman. Enjoyed it. So when I saw this discussed on We Love Memoirs Facebook page, I got it. Enjoyed it also. Glad Michel did not turn out too badly! Her husband must be amazing!
May 3, 2015
This book continues with Linda's life in France after she parts ways with the Dubois family. There are more adventures and more lessons learned the hard way in this haunting final volume of French Illusions.
November 26, 2015
Fun memoir of a young American girl in France. Good food, drinks, and friends help when life gets tough.
my full review is here:
http://wordsandpeace.com/2015/11/26/b...
my full review is here:
http://wordsandpeace.com/2015/11/26/b...
February 22, 2016
Glad I decided to read this book after reading the first one - it was nice to know that the author had a happily ever after, and not in France.
January 18, 2020
AWESOME READ!!
I stumbled upon the first book and loved it. I was thrilled when I saw there was a book 2. It wrapped up all the storylines and felt complete. Truly loved both books!
I stumbled upon the first book and loved it. I was thrilled when I saw there was a book 2. It wrapped up all the storylines and felt complete. Truly loved both books!
February 5, 2017
From Tours to Paris is the continuation of the youthful adventures of Linda Kovic, If you haven’t listened to French Illusions Book 1 get it now! When we left off, our traveler moved from the Loire Valley to the college town of Tours to enroll in a french language course for one-quarter. All on the dime of her understanding parents!
There Linda continues her relationship with Adam, but all’s not what it seems when Adam comes back from a planned trip and drops a bombshell on Linda. Devastated Linda jumps from the frying pan into the fire when she meets Michel.
I didn’t think this audiobook could top the first one, but it did! As a girl I joined the Air Force at 18-years-old, I could totally relate to all the feelings and emotions that a 21-year-old Linda experienced, I could empathize with her naivety and trust towards men in particular. Especially, if you are brought up in a sheltered environment with two loving parents. I’m sure some will say that they were never that guileless even at 21. I say good for you, but there are many more of us who were.
I also felt a strong connection, when Linda revealed a family member was bipolar, I married someone who was bipolar, and her feelings and concerns about it rang true to me. I almost felt like we lived parallel lives in some ways!
The best part is Linda Kovic-Skow didn’t leave her listeners hanging at the end and she lets us know what happened to her relationships after returning home.
Lucy Floyd once again did a wonderful job narrating this 9 plus hour audiobook, the switch between English and French was perfectly suited for all us non-french speaking listeners. The audio production was clear and the sound quality was excellent.
Thank you, Linda, for an honest and intriguing glimpse into your young adult life.
This audiobook was gifted to me exchange for an unbiased review!
There Linda continues her relationship with Adam, but all’s not what it seems when Adam comes back from a planned trip and drops a bombshell on Linda. Devastated Linda jumps from the frying pan into the fire when she meets Michel.
I didn’t think this audiobook could top the first one, but it did! As a girl I joined the Air Force at 18-years-old, I could totally relate to all the feelings and emotions that a 21-year-old Linda experienced, I could empathize with her naivety and trust towards men in particular. Especially, if you are brought up in a sheltered environment with two loving parents. I’m sure some will say that they were never that guileless even at 21. I say good for you, but there are many more of us who were.
I also felt a strong connection, when Linda revealed a family member was bipolar, I married someone who was bipolar, and her feelings and concerns about it rang true to me. I almost felt like we lived parallel lives in some ways!
The best part is Linda Kovic-Skow didn’t leave her listeners hanging at the end and she lets us know what happened to her relationships after returning home.
Lucy Floyd once again did a wonderful job narrating this 9 plus hour audiobook, the switch between English and French was perfectly suited for all us non-french speaking listeners. The audio production was clear and the sound quality was excellent.
Thank you, Linda, for an honest and intriguing glimpse into your young adult life.
This audiobook was gifted to me exchange for an unbiased review!
April 18, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, although I wish the author would have done more with her French. But that being said what a wonderful experience the author had to live and love in France. To know the French countryside, to tour churches built in the 1200s, to dance, to love, to drink wine, to know Paris like a native. To make friends to be free and young in the wild 70s!
Was wondering if Linda ever made it back to Paris as an adult with her family? It is a little sad that she lost touch with her French friends and Michel. Spoiler alert -- too bad Michel turned out to be a flake. A harmless one, but still. I hope he was able to stay in France and settle down after the craziness of his youth.
Definitely read this book if you are a Francophile, you will fall in love with all things French again.
Was wondering if Linda ever made it back to Paris as an adult with her family? It is a little sad that she lost touch with her French friends and Michel. Spoiler alert -- too bad Michel turned out to be a flake. A harmless one, but still. I hope he was able to stay in France and settle down after the craziness of his youth.
Definitely read this book if you are a Francophile, you will fall in love with all things French again.
July 3, 2017
I received this book through goodreass giveaways.
I enjoyed this book more than the first one. There seemed to be better relationships in this one so you got a better feel of how Linda's time in France really was. Although there were times where I was frustrated with her choice I had to remember this is life not a fiction book. We all go through ups and downs and I'm glad Linda shared some of hers with us.
I enjoyed this book more than the first one. There seemed to be better relationships in this one so you got a better feel of how Linda's time in France really was. Although there were times where I was frustrated with her choice I had to remember this is life not a fiction book. We all go through ups and downs and I'm glad Linda shared some of hers with us.
June 24, 2021
Nice tale about a young person experiencing emotional and experiential growth in a country where she new no one nor the language. As a traveler and explorer, I can certainly relate to living in a foreign country and learning the language jumping headlong in the deep end. Great tale with lots of truth.
I loved the descriptions about the country and it’s ambience. The characters obviously very authentic. The experience she had was clearly invaluable.
I loved the descriptions about the country and it’s ambience. The characters obviously very authentic. The experience she had was clearly invaluable.
September 2, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed both books in this series; they were well written and entertaining.
Linda leaves her job as an Au Pair and moves to Tours to attend a French language course, and this leads to a romance and a move to Paris.
Linda leaves her job as an Au Pair and moves to Tours to attend a French language course, and this leads to a romance and a move to Paris.
September 14, 2015
A wonderful read, a beautiful presentation.
I read French Illusions Book 1 quite a while ago and was so pleased when a follow-up was released. I was eager to get to it and I wasn't disappointed. Book 2 continues straight on from where the previous book left off-Linda is no longer working for the Dubois family and is staying in France for a while longer. What lovely descriptions and thoughtful choices of words, she depicts the scenes of the Christmas season beautifully. I LOVED this! Such care has been taken with the presentation: some of her actual Diary entries are included and these aren't just normal text, they look like photos of her actual handwriting? All this book just says 'beautifully neat'-it's these little touches which make a very polished package. I always said I'd never get a Kindle; I loved the look and feel of a real book-of course, I got one and am hooked! This kindle edition by Linda is so lovely, it looks beautiful-the little picture for the part number page, the ornate chapter beginnings, how she's presented the diary entries-it just looks so good on the page and is a delight to read. There's plenty to keep you reading-something totally unexpected, then lovely romance scenes, ups and downs, let downs, struggles with money etc. It's a wonderful read which I think is even better than her first book. There was a touch of nostalgia with the mention of Anais Anais-I used to wear this perfume and had forgotten about it-also the mention of many pop songs from those times; a lovely step back in time. Wow, this was so good! Really gripping and intriguing. So many happenings. It keeps you guessing. I loved the mouthwatering descriptions of the food and the wines. Excellent descriptions. Richly detailed. This book seemed to take quite a while to come after her first book; I kept checking if it was out and wondering how much longer-but it's been well worth the wait and Linda's book is all the better for it-it's accurate, polished, flowing, very readable, a quality presentation, really quite sumptuous! It builds to a satisfying conclusion, she tells what happened next in her author's note which brings the series to a close. A lovely sentence right at the end. A wonderful read.
I read French Illusions Book 1 quite a while ago and was so pleased when a follow-up was released. I was eager to get to it and I wasn't disappointed. Book 2 continues straight on from where the previous book left off-Linda is no longer working for the Dubois family and is staying in France for a while longer. What lovely descriptions and thoughtful choices of words, she depicts the scenes of the Christmas season beautifully. I LOVED this! Such care has been taken with the presentation: some of her actual Diary entries are included and these aren't just normal text, they look like photos of her actual handwriting? All this book just says 'beautifully neat'-it's these little touches which make a very polished package. I always said I'd never get a Kindle; I loved the look and feel of a real book-of course, I got one and am hooked! This kindle edition by Linda is so lovely, it looks beautiful-the little picture for the part number page, the ornate chapter beginnings, how she's presented the diary entries-it just looks so good on the page and is a delight to read. There's plenty to keep you reading-something totally unexpected, then lovely romance scenes, ups and downs, let downs, struggles with money etc. It's a wonderful read which I think is even better than her first book. There was a touch of nostalgia with the mention of Anais Anais-I used to wear this perfume and had forgotten about it-also the mention of many pop songs from those times; a lovely step back in time. Wow, this was so good! Really gripping and intriguing. So many happenings. It keeps you guessing. I loved the mouthwatering descriptions of the food and the wines. Excellent descriptions. Richly detailed. This book seemed to take quite a while to come after her first book; I kept checking if it was out and wondering how much longer-but it's been well worth the wait and Linda's book is all the better for it-it's accurate, polished, flowing, very readable, a quality presentation, really quite sumptuous! It builds to a satisfying conclusion, she tells what happened next in her author's note which brings the series to a close. A lovely sentence right at the end. A wonderful read.
April 11, 2016
I enjoyed reading about Linda Kovic-Skow's continuing adventures in France. This book was the second book of the French Illusions series. The first book, described her short lived career as an au pair for a French family. In the second book, the story picks up after Linda leaves her job as an au pair and decides to continue to live in France with little money and no place to live. She wants to study French in school and master it before returning home to America. She was courageous to stay! In addition to learning French, she also discovered romance, as part of her adventure in continuing to live there.
I felt like I really got to know Linda in this book. I read it with interest and finished it in a couple days. It was a fun read! She was learning French herself and sprinkled French expressions and language throughout the book. I especially enjoyed this since I know just a little French and would like to learn more. Reading this book, was like taking a beginner's class in French, along with Linda, who was studying French in school. As I was reading the book, I highlighted a few expressions that I wanted to learn and remember.
The Mom in me worried about Linda and some of the romantic choices she made!
Linda visited Paris with her boyfriend and talked about the various places she visited. I had been to many of the places and I enjoyed revisiting through Linda's eyes. She also mentioned some places I had not visited that I would like to visit in the future.
All around, it was a fun read! I recommend it to readers who enjoy stories about France or memoirs.
PS Question to Linda (if she is reading this review) - you seemed to have a real adventure in France - both positive and negative experiences. Now that you are a Mom - would you let your daughter do the same thing you did?.
I felt like I really got to know Linda in this book. I read it with interest and finished it in a couple days. It was a fun read! She was learning French herself and sprinkled French expressions and language throughout the book. I especially enjoyed this since I know just a little French and would like to learn more. Reading this book, was like taking a beginner's class in French, along with Linda, who was studying French in school. As I was reading the book, I highlighted a few expressions that I wanted to learn and remember.
The Mom in me worried about Linda and some of the romantic choices she made!
Linda visited Paris with her boyfriend and talked about the various places she visited. I had been to many of the places and I enjoyed revisiting through Linda's eyes. She also mentioned some places I had not visited that I would like to visit in the future.
All around, it was a fun read! I recommend it to readers who enjoy stories about France or memoirs.
PS Question to Linda (if she is reading this review) - you seemed to have a real adventure in France - both positive and negative experiences. Now that you are a Mom - would you let your daughter do the same thing you did?.
September 3, 2015
I finished Linda’s first book French Illusions feeling like she had left us just as her life in France was about to get interesting; things were not going well with the family she was living with as an au pair, but she was in love and determined to stay in France and learn the language. I wasn’t wrong! I am so glad she wrote this second book as it’s much more juicy and exciting than her first.
It had been a while since I read book one and although I remembered the basics, a little bit more of a recap at the beginning of this book would have helped me to slip me back into the story, which picks up where book one left off. But what a story! Linda is very honest about the good and bad times she experienced while living a students life in Tours, struggling with finding accommodation, making friends and balancing her studies with her relationship. She portrayed really well the highs and lows of young love, feelings of homesickness and money worries. There were moments when things got so intense I had to take a break, but it wasn’t long before I was wondering how her situation would be resolved and I was back within the pages.
It was an emotional time for Linda; events at home in the US and in France left her feeling vulnerable and alone, feelings that made her question where her future lay and what career path would be best for her. I think it would be true to say she learned a lot more then just French from her time in France. This book is a lovely insight into life in France thirty years ago, seen through the eyes of a young American. Thanks for sharing your story Linda.
It had been a while since I read book one and although I remembered the basics, a little bit more of a recap at the beginning of this book would have helped me to slip me back into the story, which picks up where book one left off. But what a story! Linda is very honest about the good and bad times she experienced while living a students life in Tours, struggling with finding accommodation, making friends and balancing her studies with her relationship. She portrayed really well the highs and lows of young love, feelings of homesickness and money worries. There were moments when things got so intense I had to take a break, but it wasn’t long before I was wondering how her situation would be resolved and I was back within the pages.
It was an emotional time for Linda; events at home in the US and in France left her feeling vulnerable and alone, feelings that made her question where her future lay and what career path would be best for her. I think it would be true to say she learned a lot more then just French from her time in France. This book is a lovely insight into life in France thirty years ago, seen through the eyes of a young American. Thanks for sharing your story Linda.
June 18, 2015
Back in October 2014, I wrote a review of French Illusions by Linda Kovic-Skow. The memoir related Linda’s disastrous experience as an au-pair in the Loire Valley. Now the author is back with a sequel. French Illusions: From Tours to Paris starts right where the first book ended and tells the author’s adventures as a student in France. Linda still dreams of becoming a flight attendant and is determined to learn French. All she has to do is find a place to live in Tours and enjoy her time in France. Of course, not everything goes according to plan, especially when her boyfriend, back from a trip to Morocco, makes a surprising announcement.
French Illusions: From Tours to Paris is a fun and entertaining read, although a bit terrifying. Based on the diary Linda kept during her stay in France, her experiences could be anyone’s worst nightmare. Alone in a foreign country, she couldn’t help being vulnerable. From money problems to boyfriend issues, she went through a lot during her 8 and a half months in France!
I thought the book was well written, and short chapters allowed the story to unfold at a good pace. In addition, Linda’s love for France was evident, but it was interesting how she fell for men who were actually not French. Maybe she felt she had more in common with them because she was a foreigner herself. Too bad she didn’t get to live the full French experience!
French Illusions: From Tours to Paris is a fun and entertaining read, although a bit terrifying. Based on the diary Linda kept during her stay in France, her experiences could be anyone’s worst nightmare. Alone in a foreign country, she couldn’t help being vulnerable. From money problems to boyfriend issues, she went through a lot during her 8 and a half months in France!
I thought the book was well written, and short chapters allowed the story to unfold at a good pace. In addition, Linda’s love for France was evident, but it was interesting how she fell for men who were actually not French. Maybe she felt she had more in common with them because she was a foreigner herself. Too bad she didn’t get to live the full French experience!
May 7, 2015
I found it fascinating to get a peek into the life of a twenty-something living in a foreign country in the 1980s. The book was mostly about her friendships and boyfriends, which came across as the most important thing to her, as they are to most people that age. She impressed me with her bravery and outgoing openness to all people, whether they were friends her own age, her teachers, or the woman she rented a room from. She was amazing at handling awkward situations. I really felt for her during the times when she had a hard time reaching and communicating with her parents, and when she felt homesick, and waiting to have money wired. It was interesting to see how times have changed. Today, cell phones, Skype, credit cards, online banking, etc. would solve that.
While I would have liked to have seen a little more description about life in France at that time, I enjoyed the book and its pace and events, and found myself not wanting to put it down. She was so honest and real in her writing and letting the reader in on her adventures as well as her feelings about everything.
If you have read the first book, you must read this to continue the story, and get to know this brave, bold, adventure-seeking young woman.
While I would have liked to have seen a little more description about life in France at that time, I enjoyed the book and its pace and events, and found myself not wanting to put it down. She was so honest and real in her writing and letting the reader in on her adventures as well as her feelings about everything.
If you have read the first book, you must read this to continue the story, and get to know this brave, bold, adventure-seeking young woman.
November 4, 2015
This book is well-presented and easy to read. It seamlessly continues the story told in
My Story as an American Au Pair in the Loire Valley (French Illusions Book 1), which I hadn't read, and I have to say that it didn't detract from my enjoyment of French Illusions Book 2. Basically, it's a memoir about a young woman's time in France whilst she learns the language, chronicling the friendships, the pitfalls, the disappointments and the comebacks.
Atmosphere oozes from the pages, the descriptions of the food and the sights are precise, yet brief, and the French is succinctly translated, just in case the reader is unfamiliar with the language. From Tours to Paris reminds me of French films, where character matters more than action – which doesn't mean they are slow-paced, only that here are people being revealed throughout the pages; stock characters with predictable traits are nowhere to be seen.
The writing quality, despite this being a memoir, could quite easily pass as fiction, and I applaud the author for this. I have now bought a copy of French Illusions Book 1 and look forward to reading this also.
My Story as an American Au Pair in the Loire Valley (French Illusions Book 1), which I hadn't read, and I have to say that it didn't detract from my enjoyment of French Illusions Book 2. Basically, it's a memoir about a young woman's time in France whilst she learns the language, chronicling the friendships, the pitfalls, the disappointments and the comebacks.
Atmosphere oozes from the pages, the descriptions of the food and the sights are precise, yet brief, and the French is succinctly translated, just in case the reader is unfamiliar with the language. From Tours to Paris reminds me of French films, where character matters more than action – which doesn't mean they are slow-paced, only that here are people being revealed throughout the pages; stock characters with predictable traits are nowhere to be seen.
The writing quality, despite this being a memoir, could quite easily pass as fiction, and I applaud the author for this. I have now bought a copy of French Illusions Book 1 and look forward to reading this also.
May 21, 2016
This second book in the French Illusions series is another great read from Linda. Her first memoir in the series documented her time as an au pair to the children of the difficult and capricious Mme Dubois and her discovery of France and all the highs and lows a seventeen year old girl, thousands of miles away from home, with a very difficult employer might experience.
In this second book Linda has left the Dubois household in Tours and is going it alone in Paris with the help of the friends she's made there. She rents an apartment and attends a local college. It's a struggle at times for her, but even living on a tight budget with partial parental funding, Linda still needs to eat and enjoys French cuisine that is mouth-wateringly described with each meal. Linda also falls in love and has relationships that take her through the sometimes painful aspects of becoming an adult and learning about life. At times this is a little too descriptive, but all part of the story.
The reader learns what Linda discovers on her sojourn in Paris. All is eloquently described and is a must read for any Francophile. I hope there is another in the series.
In this second book Linda has left the Dubois household in Tours and is going it alone in Paris with the help of the friends she's made there. She rents an apartment and attends a local college. It's a struggle at times for her, but even living on a tight budget with partial parental funding, Linda still needs to eat and enjoys French cuisine that is mouth-wateringly described with each meal. Linda also falls in love and has relationships that take her through the sometimes painful aspects of becoming an adult and learning about life. At times this is a little too descriptive, but all part of the story.
The reader learns what Linda discovers on her sojourn in Paris. All is eloquently described and is a must read for any Francophile. I hope there is another in the series.
May 4, 2015
French Illusions Book 2 follows Linda Kovic-Skow's first memoir divulging Linda's life at the age of 21 when she lived in France, but book 2 is quite different to book one - (as are a lot of true-life stories).
This book is about life outside the au pair job - grappling with real-world issues of love and maturing. It's a fast fun read with many leaps in tension and I wondered what the heck would happen to Linda at every turn. Even though she's out of the French au pair context, she's still isolated and has to look to her own resources to manage.
This is 1980: she's phoning 'collect' from a post office to communicate with home and has no internet, email, mobile phone, craigslist groups for instant friends, the lines of communication are vastly different and the language barriers are high. I liked how the author takes us into her experiences from the get-go and conveys how much of a learning curve she was on without ever throwing herself a pity party when things go nothing like she imagines. Her tenacity and spunk shine through.
This book is about life outside the au pair job - grappling with real-world issues of love and maturing. It's a fast fun read with many leaps in tension and I wondered what the heck would happen to Linda at every turn. Even though she's out of the French au pair context, she's still isolated and has to look to her own resources to manage.
This is 1980: she's phoning 'collect' from a post office to communicate with home and has no internet, email, mobile phone, craigslist groups for instant friends, the lines of communication are vastly different and the language barriers are high. I liked how the author takes us into her experiences from the get-go and conveys how much of a learning curve she was on without ever throwing herself a pity party when things go nothing like she imagines. Her tenacity and spunk shine through.
August 9, 2015
After finishing Linda’s first book French Illusions I was looking forward to reading the sequel and I wasn’t disappointed. This is a very honest account of her remaining time in France. With the support of her parents she is able to stay on in France to continue with her studies. However life isn’t always easy so far away from home. She has to cope with shortage of money, struggles with the language and homesickness. She moves to Paris to be with Michel and all the time in my head alarm bells were ringing and I wanted to say ‘don’t do this!’ However being young and love of course she does. Her love of France and Paris is evident throughout and we see her becoming more proficient with the language. It’s also her journey to becoming a more mature and wiser young woman. Well written and with no shortage of drama I can recommend this sequel.
January 31, 2017
I was eager to read/listen to this memoir - Part 2 of the Author's time in France. I loved Book 1 and wasn't disappointed with the continuation of Linda's life once she had left the employ of the Dubois family. Still determined to learn the language she 'gets to grips' with it very well in my humble opinion. We get to know her friends, the cafes she frequents, some of the beautiful scenery and, there are a couple of love interests! Money is a struggle but she does have the help of her parents - especially when she decides to speak to them about remaining in France for a while longer. All in all a lovely Memoir of a time past - a young woman on a big adventure. I loved this audio version - it was so well narrated and if I'm honest made a nice change.
June 30, 2015
I received this book and the book prior in a giveaway. I loved it! I was excited to continue reading Linda's story. If you haven't read the first book, I highly suggest you do. Many things seem to rely on some information from the first book, and it makes the book a more interesting read. In this book, Linda continues in her quest to master speaking french by attending school, and immersing herself in friends. She has a few love interests, and experiences everyday drama. Like the first book, this book has small lines of written french in it, but it is usually either supplied with its English counterpart or is contextually understood.
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