Linda Kovic-Skow

I am glad that I had this book in my hands when I finished the first book. Although this book was more about her friendships and relationships and not so much her job. It was nice to get another look into her life while in France. In my opinion she was brave to go through all she did. Travels, schooling, meeting new people. I felt for her at times as she was homesick in a foreign country with no family and at times no money. Just like the first book her writing style was very easy to read and just flowed through the pages. I felt as if I was along on the journey with her… (mere)

I think that the author was brave to apply for a job as an Au Pair in France espeically when she did not speak French. Then to have a job for a woman who to say it politely is not a nice person. What a great adventure in life this job gave her as well as the experience of traveling to a country that most of us dream of getting to go to. The author did such a good job in her writing that you felt as if you were right there along for the ride with her. I like the way this book was written as I felt as if a friend was sharing her diary with me so I can see how all the things happened while she was learning her job and secretly learning how to speak better French. It was also nice to read about her relationship with Adam. I have to say be sure to have the second book handy when you are reading this as the author leaves you wanting more of her story when you come to the end.… (mere)

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… (mere)

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! 😉 In the end though, I really enjoyed her book as it reminded me of the travel adventures of my youth, and it was easy for me to identify with her.

Linda Kovic-Skow didn’t become a flight attendant after all, but her stay in France taught her a lot and made her more mature. I’m just grateful she chose to share her experience with us through her memoir.

French Illusions: From Tours to Paris was sent to me for free in exchange for an honest review.

To read the full review, please go to my blog (Cecile Sune - Book Obsessed).… (mere)