再見，山居歲月：我在普羅旺斯美好的25年

Provence #4

by Peter Mayle, 彼得·梅爾, 韓良憶 (Translator)

他們怎麼也想不到，
這一趟旅程的目的地，即將改變他們的下半輩子，
也成為他們戀戀不捨的「家」……

為了躲避英國糟糕的天氣，彼得．梅爾和妻子來到法國蔚藍海岸，準備好好度上兩週假。大家都說那裡一年有三百天陽光普照，他們卻遇上了滂沱大雨，只好轉往南法的普羅旺斯。

來到普羅旺斯後，天氣舒適，風景優美，料理美味，居民更是熱情好客，讓夫妻倆起心動念定居下來，但他們很快就遇到難題：挑選的房子產權在好幾代人手裡、電話被左鄰右舍打到電話費爆表、出門散步差點被當作獵物射殺……

然而這些困難並沒有讓他們卻步，反而成為體驗異鄉風情的最佳佐料。畢竟這裡的食物讓人徹底忘記體重計；畢竟這裡的居民發生的趣事永遠也說不完；畢竟這二十五年來，他們從沒想過要離開。

打開這本書前，請記得先確認你已吃飽喝足，在能放聲大笑的環境閱讀，當然最好還有長假可請——以免讀完後你只想馬上衝一趟普羅旺斯！

Genres: Nonfiction, Travel, Memoir, France, Biography, Essays, Audiobook

224 pages, Paperback

First published May 28, 2019

About the author

Peter Mayle was a British author famous for his series of books detailing life in Provence, France. He spent fifteen years in advertising before leaving the business in 1975 to write educational books, including a series on sex education for children and young people. In 1989, A Year in Provence was published and became an international bestseller. His books have been translated into more than twenty languages, and he was a contributing writer to magazines and newspapers. Indeed, his seventh book, A Year in Provence, chronicles a year in the life of a British expatriate who settled in the village of Ménerbes. His book A Good Year was the basis for the eponymous 2006 film directed by Ridley Scott and starring actor Russell Crowe. Peter Mayle died in Provence, France.

Reviews

[Diane S ☔ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Another favored author who passed at the beginning of this year. This book of essays Chronicles the many years he and his wife spent in Provence. Some have been issued before, some are new, but all are his last published words.

This book made me laugh, his writings always contain humor and as one can imagine starting life in a new country one must have a great deal of humor.

Made me hungry, as he explores area cafes and restaurants, with descriptive examples of wonderful food, good meals.

Made me yearn for a good Rose, well maybe good wine in general as he and his wife buy a property with a small vineyard attached.

Made me want to travel here, the small towns that make up this area sound so charming. The wonderful descriptions of scenery and gorgeous views.Three hundred days of sunshine, I can't imagine.

Mayle seems like such a charming man, one I would have wanted to meet in person. Perfect reading for a summers day. He will be missed.

[Ginny · Rating 3 out of 5]

I remember first reading A Year in Provence a year or two after my first trip there. I was jealous some Brit moved there and made an enjoyable life for himself. My memories of place were so compelling, something about his story made me ache.
Years have passed. I saw this book in the bookstore and picked it up just to leaf through. I had no intention of reading another story of his life in Provence. Then I flipped to the back cover, saw a photo of this smiling happy man - taken by his wife of forever, and read that Peter Mayle died this past January.
Wow. It stung. How could that much time have passed? I bought the book and read every page through the lens of this man’s story now being over. The book reads like he had a very rich and full life, enjoying the world around him.
It causes me to ponder my own life, and seeking out my own riches.

[Jeanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

When asked about dying, Mayle was quoted as saying, and I paraphrase: "I loathe funerals...I'd prefer to have a lavish lunch for a few close friends...and die before the bill arrives." Obviously, he kept his sense of humor right up until the end. His books are a testimony to his love for everything Provence. This, his final one, is no exception. Absolutely delightful~

[Dana Cristiana · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a breath of fresh air!

Bookstagram Review: https://www.instagram.com/p/CyDT-xjAI...

I gave it 4 and not 5 stars because there were certain subjects I wasn't interested in. But other than that, this book has everything: Food and drinks that will leave your mouth drooling, funny moments in the author's life, the writing style and storytelling.

I loved it and I'm looking forward to reading the other Provence books written by Mr. Peter.

[Helen Yoest · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading the last words by Peter Mayle was sad on it's own; and I'm not sure if this tiny treasure of his reflective experiences was to be further developed or not. In any case, I cherished each word and enjoyed the feeling of calmness Mayle projects.

I wonder if everyone living anywhere should write these kind of stories. The roots, where we called home, are worth reminiscing about. This may or may not have been his intention, but he has inspired me for my #LivingTheLifeOfRaleigh for 30 years.

[Andrea Cox · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a pretty good memoir. I was disappointed in the crudity, profanity, and expletives included, but I did feel that I learned a lot about life in France as an outsider trying to carve out a nice little life there. The atmosphere in this memoir was wonderful and made it really easy for me to feel transported across the Atlantic Ocean to a land not my own.

Content: nudity, brothels, alcohol, crude discussion, crude gesture, expletives, profanity, bars, selling alcohol to minors, drugs

[Deb (Readerbuzz) Nance · Rating 3 out of 5]

We've all loved following Peter Mayle's journey to a new life in Provence, his funny stories of cultural differences, acclimation, and adaptation. This is a little book of essays that sum up his experiences, highlighting some of his favorite times in twenty-five years of an Englishman living in France.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet ending to a lovely body of work. Sadly, the author passed shortly before publication. I would recommend his earlier books on Provence for those that want the full armchair travel experience. This one serves mainly as a recap and update.

[Lorraine Sulick-Morecraft · Rating 3 out of 5]

Toujours, Encore, Au Revoir

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is yet another gem from Peter Mayle! In this short treasure, he sums up the joys and idiosyncrasies of his life in his adopted home of the past twenty-five years, Provence. He has always written with joy and humor, and this one is no exception, as he tells about summer guests, sneaky truffle hunters, the joys of French dining, and the French language. He concludes his book by sharing the story of when he became a knight of the Legion of Honor, a huge honor, especially for an Englishman.

I have enjoyed so many of his books, and it is sad knowing that this is Mr. Mayle’s last book. He died in January near his Provencal home.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

Charming book that finishes Mayle's Provence, France books. It a than and now type format and much will be familiar to those who have read his other Provence books. Nice way to end.

[Pietra Ibrisimovic · Rating 4 out of 5]

peter mayle’s writing paired with john lee’s narrating gives for such a delightful reading experience! this book gives you a glimpse on life in provence, which would be an all wonderful thing if it wasn’t for the fact that my yearning for dropping the life i know right now and booking a one way ticket to france multiplied by a tenfold

[Jedimelinda · Rating 2 out of 5]

Another instance when I wish I could award half stars to a book. My 25 Years in Provence definitely is worthy of at least 2-1/2 stars. In good conscience, I could not quite go up to three.
At times, I was drawn into Mayle's recollections of his many years living in Provence. But those few times didn't go far enough to compel me to really like this memoir of 179 pages. He obviously loved his adopted country, Provence in particular. But he just didn't go deep enough into why he was ready to bid adieu to his native England -- other than the weather. Was that the only reason he and his wife settled somewhere sunnier and more laid back? Perhaps. People move for all kinds of reasons. Still, I would have liked more.
Two aspects of this book really bothered me.
The first was that this move was a joint venture. His wife, though present a few times within the pages, doesn't exist at all in the stories. Was she present for anything that he experienced? Was she a factor in his finding happiness in Provence? Were they merely two separate people living parallel lives, living in the same house but only to co-exist? I suppose this book was about Mayle's memories and recollections of his 25 years in Provence (he passed away last year), but how could his wife not be a part of his memories to share while living there?
Second, there were a few -- scant as they were -- smatterings of French phrases that Mayle threw into his stories that he does not translate. That was frustrating. French is not a universal language, and it would have been nice to know what message he was trying to get across. (There were instances when he did share the translation. Thankfully. But why not always?)
Now that I have gotten my two main gripes about My 25 Years in Provence out of the way, there were two minor grumbles I had with this book that I'd like to share.
The first pertains to the chapter about Ridley Scott taking one of Mayle's stories, and turning it into the quiet, charming "A Good Year", starring Russell Crowe. French actress Marion Cotillard was in the film, and Mayle credits Scott with turning the noted actress into "a major star" (Mayle's words, not mine), aka on the level of Brad Pitt, who Scott cast in "Thelma & Louise". I've seen Cotillard in other productions. She is a good actress, but in no way, shape or form is she on the same level as someone of Pitt's stature. This is an instance of when Mayle blows a story out of proportion. I'm just saying -- let's keep things in perspective.
The second pertains to Mayle being awarded the the Legion d'Honneur Medal, a highly esteemed honor to be bestowed upon an individual. Mayle's good friend, mayor of Menerbes, nominated Mayle for the prestigious award. But why??? Mayle never shares that piece of information with his readers. I am not saying -- nor inferring -- that Mayle wasn't deserving. It just would have been nice to know why his good friend thought he was worthy of one of France's highest honors.
Small grievances, perhaps. But they bugged me.
All in all, My 25 Years in Provence was charming. I certainly do not regret reading this book. It is a memoir, after all, and memoirs oftentimes can leave the reader wanting...
Happy Reading! :-)

[Carolyn Harris · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable book for the experience of travel at a time when actual travel is not advisable. There are some really evocative descriptions of Provencal marketplaces, cafes and vineyards with lots of understated humour. There's even a chapter about the author attending a royal visit to France hosted by President Chirac. The audiobook is narrated by John Lee, who is excellent (I also enjoyed his narration of Doctor Zhivago). A pleasant and relaxing listen.

[Teresa “Teri” · Rating 5 out of 5]

““It started with a lucky break in the weather. My wife, Jennie, and I had escaped the rigors of the English summer to spend two idyllic weeks on the Côte d’Azur, which according to popular rumor enjoys three hundred days of sunshine a year. But not that year. It rained, hard and often.”

— My Twenty-Five Years in Provence: Reflections on Then and Now by Peter Mayle

Thus begins Peter Mayle’s last love letter 💌 to his beloved Provence. Having long ago read his very first love letter to this French Beauty with all her charms and passionate ups and downs, I felt I knew what was to come. Yet, it was still lovely, how his first sparks of love had settled into a mature loving relationship still filled by awe.

If you have never read Peter Mayle’s unexpected life changing adventure that began with “A Year In Provence” and, the subsequent books that followed, you could still enjoy this book.

Published posthumously after his death in 2018 😢, it is, at once, a looking forward and a looking back.
His memories of the beginning of his French love affair with this shockingly beautiful southern part of France 🇫🇷 are poignant but, short. His looking to the present, while truthful, are not pessimistic.

People change and places change. An older man’s remembrance of idyllic moments in a much loved period of time often become a younger man’s most enchanting day.

I will miss Peter Mayle’s voice in the world of ex-Pat every day life and adventures. To me, he set the standard high in this lovely genre.

[Lisa of Hopewell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Like so many others, I loved Peter Mayles Provence books and the tv series they spawned. Not too long ago I read one of his novels, and enjoyed it well enough. When I heard that he had died in January I was genuinely sad. It was like losing if not an old friend then a losing a very special acquaintance.

This book, sadly, his last, is full of really nice leftover piece that never found a home in his other books. If he’d had a blog–these would be the “best of” posts. One reviewer called this little volume Mayles’ love letter to Provence. I agree–on some posts. On others, I just found them to be interesting. Regardless, all were things to make you feel good.
My Rating
3.5

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I discovered this short book on the new non-fiction shelf of the library. I didn't realize that Peter Mayle had passed away last year until I read the fly-leaf. This book of short vignettes is Mayle at his best, and reminded me why I fell in love with his books many years ago. It's a wonderful farewell, and made me want to live in Provence all over again.

[Colleen · Rating 3 out of 5]

A wonderful, easy, lighthearted,escapist read all about the finer things in life -food, wine,a beautiful view and good company.

[Luz · Rating 4 out of 5]

For fans of "A Year in Provence," this book by Peter Mayle offers both a nostalgic look back and fresh updates. I was initially enchanted by Mayle's recounting of his bold move from Great Britain to Provence, captivated by his vivid portrayals of village life. This book continues in that vein, enriched with his favorite town recommendations and a selection of photos. Reading Mayle's affectionate commentary on the region feels akin to a leisurely conversation with a witty, charming friend over a delightful meal and wine in a quaint café, relishing the beauty of everyday moments peppered with humor and irony to keep complacency at bay. Learning of Mayle's passing in early 2018 lent my reading a poignant edge, making me grateful for the opportunity to enjoy a few more tales from his distinctive voice.

[Andie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Peter Mayle's first two books, A Year in Provence and Toujours Provence were simply wonderful - maybe because they were one of the first of what has now become a flood of House Hunters International real estate porn books. His later efforts have not been so good. His mystery series is mediocre and his novels aren't much better, however, I had hope for this slim volume of memories of Mayle's twenty-five years in Provence.

Sadly, I was disappointed. This book is just a rehash of his other efforts. The author died earlier this year, so perhaps his estate was just mining one last book from his unpublished journals,.

[E · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm sad that Peter Mayle passed in January 2018. I really loved his other Provence books, and this one was wonderful too! I spent a week in Provence in May, and this brought back fond memories of my time there. I especially liked the reference to the "spectacular outbreaks of scarlet poppies in fields...".

I'm now planning to read some of his other novels (already read The Marseille Caper and The Corsican Caper).

[Jane Oldenburg]

This book was a quick read. I always enjoy these types of books about traveling for a long time and moving abroad. While there was nothing special about this story, it certainly did pique my interest in Provence, France. I believe the author wrote a book that came before this one and I am interested in reading that one as well. Moving abroad has been a dream of mine for a long time. I don’t know if I will ever realize it, but it’s fun to think about it.

[Margarita Ibbott · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5. ☆ l enjoyed a Year in Provence one l read it after my year in Paris. I loved it because it really was a great observation of the expat life in France.

This was not as great. Maybe it's my maturity or the amount I've traveled since but the tone was just not great. It's a pass for a recommendation.

[Sharon Williams · Rating 3 out of 5]

To be honest, the reason I chose to listen to this book is that John Lee narrated it. Mr Lee is by far my favorite audiobook reader and as I mentioned in a previous comment-I would happily listen to him read brownie recipes or IKEA bookcase building instructions.
Mr Lee’s reading made this delightful book all the better. I recommend both book and reader to everyone.

[Pauline · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peter Mayle was a consummate wordsmith. We’ve read aloud his “Provence” books on various road trips and this was no different. What a delightful read. I felt I was sitting next to him while he told his stories. Short chapters make it a perfect car read. For those who love France or stories about France, enjoy a well-told tale, or just want an easy but delightful read, this is your book.

[Gabriella Stoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I discovered Peter Mayle in 2014 after my first vacation in Provence. I love all his books. Unfortunately this is the last book he wrote 😔I hope Heaven is reproduced after Provence or Provence after Heaven.

[David W · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn’t know this was Mayle’s final book until I reached the end. It’s a fitting send off filled with memories of the years he spent documenting and living in Provence. It’s a breath of fresh air carried on the mistral of Mayle’s wonderful prose and deep love for the region.

[Belinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This feels like excerpts taken from Mayle’s journals rather than a cohesive work, but it’s still charming and filled with Mayle’s delightful style. Sadly, this was released after he passed, and I think this is the last book of his oeuvre.

[Zaparenko · Rating 5 out of 5]

in love with the book, the author's style and now I have even more reasons to visit Provence

[Doug Garrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

I needed a respite from heavy reading and this was perfect. Makes me want to head to southern France!