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My French Platter: A Journey to a Dream Life in France
When Annemarie and her husband, Steve, leave their life in New Zealand to manage a 15th-century farmhouse in France, they have no idea they’ll end up homeless. No idea they’ll need to live in filth, rely on dilapidated equipment and deal with a belligerent boss. Will the mouth-watering food she creates, the wonderful people they meet and the glorious French countryside help them salvage their dreams of life abroad or will they need to rethink their future?
Perfect for fans of Peter Mayle’s A Year in Provence, Janine Marsh’s My Good Life in France and Beth Haslam’s Fat Dogs and French Estates.
Perfect for fans of Peter Mayle’s A Year in Provence, Janine Marsh’s My Good Life in France and Beth Haslam’s Fat Dogs and French Estates.
191 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 24, 2020
431 people are currently reading
374 people want to read
About the author
Annemarie Rawson
4 books52 followersAnnemarie is a New Zealander who collects new 'best friends' wherever she goes. In her 50's she and her husband, Steve, packed up the house, rented it out, kissed her family and friends goodbye and moved 12,000 km to South West France to work as estate managers for several private families -- swapping corporate, city life for animal husbandry and the French countryside.
Annemarie loves people, animals, travelling, interior design and creating delicious food to welcome people into her home and at her table.
After a stint back in New Zealand, Annemarie decided (at 60) it was time for another adventure and did exactly the same thing, packing up the house but this time moving to London. Two and a half years later they have explored more of London than some Londoners and have bounced around the UK and parts of Europe, capturing it all in photos and blogs.
Annemarie loves people, animals, travelling, interior design and creating delicious food to welcome people into her home and at her table.
After a stint back in New Zealand, Annemarie decided (at 60) it was time for another adventure and did exactly the same thing, packing up the house but this time moving to London. Two and a half years later they have explored more of London than some Londoners and have bounced around the UK and parts of Europe, capturing it all in photos and blogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
February 8, 2021
What a story! I was initially attracted to this book by its stunning cover, also because the story takes place in France. In no time at all, I was gripped by the unfolding tale.
The author recounts the decision she and her husband make to become managers of a country house in France. As they prepare to move from their home in New Zealand, the relationship with their new employers becomes more and more precarious. By now fully committed, they decide to go ahead anyway.
As soon as they arrive, it quickly becomes apparent that few of the assurances they had been given turn out to be correct. But they don’t give up, far from it. This plucky couple makes the best of, literally, a bad job.
Throughout, I was impressed by the author’s candour, her acknowledgement of hasty decisions made, and courage in never giving in. Her super storytelling style enabled me to visualise the beautiful places they visit, picture the folks they become friends with and experience the highs and lows she is brave enough to share.
Other treats in this book include recipes of the fabulous dishes she creates, which add further depth. As to how their adventure ends? Well, that would be a spoiler if I told you. What I can say, though, is there will be a sequel, and I can’t wait to read it.
The author recounts the decision she and her husband make to become managers of a country house in France. As they prepare to move from their home in New Zealand, the relationship with their new employers becomes more and more precarious. By now fully committed, they decide to go ahead anyway.
As soon as they arrive, it quickly becomes apparent that few of the assurances they had been given turn out to be correct. But they don’t give up, far from it. This plucky couple makes the best of, literally, a bad job.
Throughout, I was impressed by the author’s candour, her acknowledgement of hasty decisions made, and courage in never giving in. Her super storytelling style enabled me to visualise the beautiful places they visit, picture the folks they become friends with and experience the highs and lows she is brave enough to share.
Other treats in this book include recipes of the fabulous dishes she creates, which add further depth. As to how their adventure ends? Well, that would be a spoiler if I told you. What I can say, though, is there will be a sequel, and I can’t wait to read it.
July 2, 2021
The idea of escaping to France and living the dream life in a gorgeous setting appeals to many of us, but few take the plunge in the way Annemarie and her husband, Steve, did. After applying for a job managing a 15th century farmhouse, Mas de Lavande, they left New Zealand for an adventure of a lifetime. Alas, all was not as first appeared. The story charts their new life navigating the unpredictable whims of one of the owners - Tristan - and his property agent/PA, Sarah, who was excruciatingly painful to deal with. There were times when I was thinking this could easily turn into a murder mystery, but thankfully it didn't as Annemarie and Steve took everything in their stride, until... well, I won't give any spoilers, you will have to read it yourself. Throughout all this, they still managed to enjoy the beauty of France they sought, with it's wine and food, tranquil and picturesque settings. An enjoyable read. Recommended.
June 19, 2021
I was lucky enough to be gifted a copy of this memoir. I love 'moving to a different country' books - that'll be the nosey person in me. The author and her husband, Steve were 'searching' for something different and - 'ping' something caught their attention - thank goodness for that - what a huge adventure they had - they left their home in New Zealand and journeyed to France - it's not all glamour and grandeur being guardians/caretakers to a vast property, in a different country, with a different language.... and things are quite tough for them at times - thank goodness they find good friends that don't live a million miles away - I'm not going to give stuff away here - read it for yourself and find out what happens. A well-written, descriptive, enjoyable, easy read in my humble opinion.
June 29, 2022
This is not the first book I’ve read about someone moving to a new country and making a new life there. Nor is this the first about settling in France. Still, the incredible and honest journey that Annemarie and her husband take in managing a 15th-century country home is inspirational, to say the least. I loved Annemarie’s attitude, especially when it came to facing issues. At the book's heart are the French countryside, the food, the beautiful villages, and the local people—each adding a magnetic element to Annemarie’s memoir.
December 7, 2020
An excellent read.
Annemarie and her husband Steve are looking for a change from their life in New Zealand, and apply for what appears to be a "dream job" in Southwest France managing the country home of a London based couple.
This brilliantly written memoir takes the reader on an incredible journey, with plenty of highs and lows along the way.
I enjoyed this memoir immensely, and have no hesitation in recommending it.
Annemarie and her husband Steve are looking for a change from their life in New Zealand, and apply for what appears to be a "dream job" in Southwest France managing the country home of a London based couple.
This brilliantly written memoir takes the reader on an incredible journey, with plenty of highs and lows along the way.
I enjoyed this memoir immensely, and have no hesitation in recommending it.
October 12, 2020
We often remember the trials and tribulations that have often transpired in order to reach our subsequent destinations in life, rather than our years during these events taking place. My French Platter: A Journey to a Dream Life in France by Annemarie Rawson, is such an adventure for the kind of life after the children had grown and redirected to other destinations. Rawson plays out a fantasy of a life worth orchestrating, away from the usual and predicting lifestyle of her and her husband's usual routine. AnneMarie and Steven Rawson, both perfectionists, play an integral role in how things are managed at a 15th century farmhouse in France. Thirsting for adventures and working in a different culture than their own, the Rawson's found friends, a new place to call home and of course, all the hullabaloo that proved their mettle all too soon followed. The couple's imagined treasure destination was exhaustive, rewarding and kept their minds nimble with each challenge they faced. Friendships made along the way won out and saved them as a couple and as individuals as they so often do in life. Lessons learned are most precious when you have a friend to lean on in trouble times. A bit of wine, cheese, good friends and the atmosphere of traveling even if for a short jaunt in France and Italy beckoning doesn't hurt either.
November 15, 2021
Annemarie and Steve Rawson travelled from New Zealand to France to take up a job as estate managers and property guardians in the Tarn département of Southwest France. Having upped sticks myself nearly 25 years ago to live in France, I am always interested to read about other people’s experiences of moving abroad.
The Rawsons arrive full of anticipation, but the reality of their situation with capricious employers soon hits home.
However, there are upsides: the friends they make, the countryside and the historic towns and villages and, of course, the food. Fortunately, their positive and outgoing personalities help them through, and they turn a disaster into a learning experience.
Annemarie Rawson’s style is chatty, straightforward and readable. You feel you are there sharing their ups and downs. And her mouth-watering descriptions of the food she prepares (some recipes are printed at the end) had me hankering for lunch at 10 in the morning.
I went straight onto Book 2 in the hope that things would improve during their second stint in the Tarn.
The Rawsons arrive full of anticipation, but the reality of their situation with capricious employers soon hits home.
However, there are upsides: the friends they make, the countryside and the historic towns and villages and, of course, the food. Fortunately, their positive and outgoing personalities help them through, and they turn a disaster into a learning experience.
Annemarie Rawson’s style is chatty, straightforward and readable. You feel you are there sharing their ups and downs. And her mouth-watering descriptions of the food she prepares (some recipes are printed at the end) had me hankering for lunch at 10 in the morning.
I went straight onto Book 2 in the hope that things would improve during their second stint in the Tarn.
January 29, 2021
Absolutely loved My French Platter, Annemarie bought the pages to life telling of the brave adventure she and her husband Steve took diving in the deep end to give it a go living and working in France.
As the book unfolds it’s a pleasure to visualise the delicious food, the countryside and villages and uncover some delightful and quirky personalities they encounter along the way.
The next best thing to holidaying in France as we had planned for 2021 but sadly not to be thanks to Covid 19.
As the book unfolds it’s a pleasure to visualise the delicious food, the countryside and villages and uncover some delightful and quirky personalities they encounter along the way.
The next best thing to holidaying in France as we had planned for 2021 but sadly not to be thanks to Covid 19.
May 15, 2023
When Annemarie and husband, Steve, make the brave decision to pack up and leave New Zealand for France to manage a country estate they had no idea the rollercoaster they were about to ride. At first everything seems like a fairytale, a beautiful house and gardens, a little bit of cooking, cleaning and gardening but as time goes on they realize that things aren’t quite as glamorous as they first seemed, dealing with unpredictable owners and agents. Annemarie and Steve deal with everything thrown at them with dignity and grace and slowly fall in love with France and make some friends along the way. This is just the start of their journey to a new life and I’m excited to read the next book.
April 7, 2021
I was interested to read about a fellow Kiwi’s adventures in France and wasn’t disappointed. Annemarie takes the reader along as they begin their new life managing a farmhouse in France, however it is not all glorious scenery and sumptuous food as things start to go very wrong. A pleasant and enjoyable read for Francophiles and foodies.
September 8, 2020
My weakness is reading memoirs about people moving country and setting up house. It usually involves trials and tribulations and ends with the triumph over all the troubles that have beset them. This book is a little different in that the biggest roadblock took human form and made me quite angry throughout my read. I therefore welcomed the delightful interludes that included delicious food, visits to the surrounding villages and a short holiday in Italy, all beautifully described in detail. There may well be a happy ending, but you need to find out for yourself. Oh and there are recipes. I do love the inclusion of recipes.
August 24, 2020
One of my favorite genres is that about ex-pats, usually from the U.K. or U.S., moving to a new country, often France or Spain, to retire and enjoy a new culture while navigating the cultural differences encountered, as they endeavor to settle into their new life. I enjoyed the quite different twist on the ex-pat formula in “My French Platter.” Instead of moving from the UK or US, Annemarie and her husband moved from New Zealand to fulfill her life-long dream of living, and working, in France.
They weren’t planning to retire, but to work as property managers for a couple from England and their agent. Annemarie answers an add that appears to be the answers to her desires. Unfortunately, things aren’t as they seem and while this creates the necessary tension for a good book, in real life it’s not so much fun working for unreasonable people with ridiculous expectations. They worked hard to create order and cleanliness from near chaos and filth, only to find themselves at odds with the employers they were trying so hard to please. Soon, many thousands of miles from home, they are suddenly homeless and without a source of income. What should they do and where should they go?
It was a riveting read—what could possibly happen next to this hard-working couple who had moved half-way around the world to work (and work hard)? This book is full of the beauty of France, the warm welcome of their neighbors which is all contrasted with the unreasonable employers who don’t appreciate their dedication and diligence. I can’t wait for the next book to find out how the next chapter of their lives plays out.
They weren’t planning to retire, but to work as property managers for a couple from England and their agent. Annemarie answers an add that appears to be the answers to her desires. Unfortunately, things aren’t as they seem and while this creates the necessary tension for a good book, in real life it’s not so much fun working for unreasonable people with ridiculous expectations. They worked hard to create order and cleanliness from near chaos and filth, only to find themselves at odds with the employers they were trying so hard to please. Soon, many thousands of miles from home, they are suddenly homeless and without a source of income. What should they do and where should they go?
It was a riveting read—what could possibly happen next to this hard-working couple who had moved half-way around the world to work (and work hard)? This book is full of the beauty of France, the warm welcome of their neighbors which is all contrasted with the unreasonable employers who don’t appreciate their dedication and diligence. I can’t wait for the next book to find out how the next chapter of their lives plays out.
February 22, 2021
What a delightful read! Annemarie writes with an easygoing manner, honesty about her feelings and with passion. I was captured right from the start! Journeying with her and her husband Steve on an adventure to “A Dream Life in France”.
I loved the descriptions and detail of the architecture, gardens and interiors of the homes and villages they encountered, the countryside, villages and people and food! I experienced all the the emotions they went through of excitement, enthusiasm, despair, anger, and determination. What a roller coaster ride!
I highly recommend to travel lovers and I can’t wait to read the sequel!
I loved the descriptions and detail of the architecture, gardens and interiors of the homes and villages they encountered, the countryside, villages and people and food! I experienced all the the emotions they went through of excitement, enthusiasm, despair, anger, and determination. What a roller coaster ride!
I highly recommend to travel lovers and I can’t wait to read the sequel!
August 26, 2020
I must say I thoroughly enjoyed Annemarie’s book and loved her conversational style of writing and her honesty in telling her story. The Chapter headings were good as well as they gave a pointer to content.
She and her husband Steve moved from their home in New Zealand to France where they had taken on the job of property managers at the Mas de Lavande a 15th Century Farmhouse. It should have been their dream job but unfortunately it became a nightmare.
The house was nothing like the photos and the owners were exceedingly high handed and disagreeable. However, she and her husband somehow found the courage to buckle down and get on with the job. It says a lot about their strength of character that they carried on. I really felt for them and the predicament they were in as it must have been an endurance test! Fortunately they made good friends with their neighbours who gave them moral and practical support. I must say I really want the karma bus to come along and give Tristan and co. a good slap!
I enjoyed all the recipes that Annemarie shared at the end - that chocolate one mmm! There are also links to photos and her website which I liked. I can't wait to read what happens next as it just has to be better.
She and her husband Steve moved from their home in New Zealand to France where they had taken on the job of property managers at the Mas de Lavande a 15th Century Farmhouse. It should have been their dream job but unfortunately it became a nightmare.
The house was nothing like the photos and the owners were exceedingly high handed and disagreeable. However, she and her husband somehow found the courage to buckle down and get on with the job. It says a lot about their strength of character that they carried on. I really felt for them and the predicament they were in as it must have been an endurance test! Fortunately they made good friends with their neighbours who gave them moral and practical support. I must say I really want the karma bus to come along and give Tristan and co. a good slap!
I enjoyed all the recipes that Annemarie shared at the end - that chocolate one mmm! There are also links to photos and her website which I liked. I can't wait to read what happens next as it just has to be better.
August 23, 2020
This was an interesting book—the first few chapters when they decided to leave their life in NZ and go to France and be caretakers for a large house. The house hadn’t been taken care of in ages so they set to work (working their asses off) and having to deal with Sarah who was not an owner but just a worker for the owners. When One of the owners shows up he is obnoxious, brings friends and trashes the house, no thanks for anything they had done. They finally learned from the town folks that The previous caretakers Just up and left and that is finally what they did. Luckily they made friends who were able to help them get other employment and they did some traveling. A lot of the chapters are filled with stories about food so if you like that you are in luck and there are several recipes which is a nice touch also.
August 13, 2020
An absolute delight!
I thought this was a really great book. I enjoyed it all the way through; it was unpredictable, not your usual retire and find a house sort of memoir. Many surprises.
Annemarie and Steve had a dream of living and working in France. Her excitement and enthusiasm for what could be possible really comes through the writing. They would be renting out their own house in New Zealand.
Many times, you get a ‘buy a property, do it up, and all the ups and downs and disasters type of memoir’. This book seems like they're going to an idyllic setting, and all they have to do is keep it clean and well-maintained. But they find it's nowhere near clean, nor remotely maintained. It's not just a laid back story of peaceful life in France-there are many hurdles and unexpected happenings.
Reasonably brief chapters, but a lot of content; concise style. She paints a lovely picture, and foods do sound so scrumptious how she describes them: Chocolate Terrine-this sounded absolute heaven in the book, and I was hoping the recipe would be in there, and it was! This was a great book, and I loved it. So good I read and read until 2am, and my phone dropped on my nose with a bang!
This is a really good memoir. If you're expecting a tranquil relax in France-this is quite the roller coaster ride for Steve and Annemarie, and you just won't imagine their experiences. I have no hesitation in awarding 5 stars, because this book just so deserves it. I devoured it all the way through and can't wait to get my hands on the sequel as soon as that comes out.
There are photos on the author's website and supplementary recipes.
It really was a joy to read.
I thought this was a really great book. I enjoyed it all the way through; it was unpredictable, not your usual retire and find a house sort of memoir. Many surprises.
Annemarie and Steve had a dream of living and working in France. Her excitement and enthusiasm for what could be possible really comes through the writing. They would be renting out their own house in New Zealand.
Many times, you get a ‘buy a property, do it up, and all the ups and downs and disasters type of memoir’. This book seems like they're going to an idyllic setting, and all they have to do is keep it clean and well-maintained. But they find it's nowhere near clean, nor remotely maintained. It's not just a laid back story of peaceful life in France-there are many hurdles and unexpected happenings.
Reasonably brief chapters, but a lot of content; concise style. She paints a lovely picture, and foods do sound so scrumptious how she describes them: Chocolate Terrine-this sounded absolute heaven in the book, and I was hoping the recipe would be in there, and it was! This was a great book, and I loved it. So good I read and read until 2am, and my phone dropped on my nose with a bang!
This is a really good memoir. If you're expecting a tranquil relax in France-this is quite the roller coaster ride for Steve and Annemarie, and you just won't imagine their experiences. I have no hesitation in awarding 5 stars, because this book just so deserves it. I devoured it all the way through and can't wait to get my hands on the sequel as soon as that comes out.
There are photos on the author's website and supplementary recipes.
It really was a joy to read.
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October 12, 2020I have to admit I was skeptical when I first began reading this book. I feared it may be too amateurish and poorly written. However my love of this subject spurred me on and I wasn't disappointed.
Like many francophiles I love reading stories of people moving to France and I live vicariously through their adventures, all the while adding to my knowledge base for /if when I take the leap.
This couple were very courageous and I salute them! I also developed a huge admiration for their collective skill base, excellent work standards, generosity, tenacity at sticking to their guns and also choosing their battles. And their qualities did not go unrewarded. They made good friends and good deeds have come back to them in spades!
From the beginning the reader knows the dream is going to crash, or at least suffer a major setback and this is handled well. I enjoyed reading this and was so pleased so see it ended well and want the read the next phase of this lovely couple's life.
I would have loved some photos but I guess this would have increased the cost too much?
Thank you Annemarie for taking the time to write this story and sharing your adventures. And whether I live in France or not, at least I have had a good reality check of the delights and nightmares!
Like many francophiles I love reading stories of people moving to France and I live vicariously through their adventures, all the while adding to my knowledge base for /if when I take the leap.
This couple were very courageous and I salute them! I also developed a huge admiration for their collective skill base, excellent work standards, generosity, tenacity at sticking to their guns and also choosing their battles. And their qualities did not go unrewarded. They made good friends and good deeds have come back to them in spades!
From the beginning the reader knows the dream is going to crash, or at least suffer a major setback and this is handled well. I enjoyed reading this and was so pleased so see it ended well and want the read the next phase of this lovely couple's life.
I would have loved some photos but I guess this would have increased the cost too much?
Thank you Annemarie for taking the time to write this story and sharing your adventures. And whether I live in France or not, at least I have had a good reality check of the delights and nightmares!
October 3, 2020
A brave move, a crazy employer, and a great story.
Moving from New Zealand and leaving all their family and friends behind, Annemarie and her husband Steve move to France to begin what should be their dream job. Managing and running a luxury farmhouse for the owners, who run art holidays and have guests to stay. Sadly, the advertised job and beautiful farmhouse turn out to be nothing like what was promised. Annemarie writes with an easy, friendly style, she is honest about her feelings and what transpires, and you are left feeling desperately sad for this lovely couple. Her recipes, descriptions of the food, places they visit and the friends they make, all bring this story to life, and without wanting to spoil the ending (!) I cheered when they finally sorted things out and made alternative plans. I am looking forward to book two; I want to know what happened to this brave couple next. The author also has an excellent website and blog.
Moving from New Zealand and leaving all their family and friends behind, Annemarie and her husband Steve move to France to begin what should be their dream job. Managing and running a luxury farmhouse for the owners, who run art holidays and have guests to stay. Sadly, the advertised job and beautiful farmhouse turn out to be nothing like what was promised. Annemarie writes with an easy, friendly style, she is honest about her feelings and what transpires, and you are left feeling desperately sad for this lovely couple. Her recipes, descriptions of the food, places they visit and the friends they make, all bring this story to life, and without wanting to spoil the ending (!) I cheered when they finally sorted things out and made alternative plans. I am looking forward to book two; I want to know what happened to this brave couple next. The author also has an excellent website and blog.
September 11, 2020
I love reading these ex-pat stories of folks moving to France! If only I could be so brave.
Rawson and her husband find their New Zealand lives lacking, and start searching for a new adventure. They found it in France, running a chateau for a pair of eccentric Londoner's and their guests.
The author does a great job of describing the derelict state of the chateau upon their arrival and the outright nasty treatment by one of the owners and his assistant. I admire their restraint in dealing with them, I am sure that I would have broke and punched the little twerp in the nose!
Even though they were completely screwed over by their first employers, they rebound and find the perfect spot for themselves in the end.
I especially liked the descriptions of the French people, the landscapes, the food, and the camaraderie they found.
I am looking forward to the author's upcoming book.
Rawson and her husband find their New Zealand lives lacking, and start searching for a new adventure. They found it in France, running a chateau for a pair of eccentric Londoner's and their guests.
The author does a great job of describing the derelict state of the chateau upon their arrival and the outright nasty treatment by one of the owners and his assistant. I admire their restraint in dealing with them, I am sure that I would have broke and punched the little twerp in the nose!
Even though they were completely screwed over by their first employers, they rebound and find the perfect spot for themselves in the end.
I especially liked the descriptions of the French people, the landscapes, the food, and the camaraderie they found.
I am looking forward to the author's upcoming book.
November 11, 2020
My French Platter: A Journey to a Dream Life in France
Annemarie Rawson
What an excellent memoir!
Annemarie and Steve leave New Zealand to follow their dream to live and work in France. After answering an ad and securing work they begin their new life managing a 15th Century farmhouse. All is not what it seems, we follow their adventures hearing about the many struggles this hardworking couple had to endure. In spite of these challenges, Annemarie manages to conjure up beautiful mouthwatering foods for frequent guests. I was pleased to find the recipes at the end of the book.
You will need to read this excellent book to discover what happens next..
Annemarie is a great story teller with her friendly enthusiasm coming through the pages. Certainly a joy to read, looking forward, in anticipation for the next instalment. A worthy 5 stars.
Annemarie Rawson
What an excellent memoir!
Annemarie and Steve leave New Zealand to follow their dream to live and work in France. After answering an ad and securing work they begin their new life managing a 15th Century farmhouse. All is not what it seems, we follow their adventures hearing about the many struggles this hardworking couple had to endure. In spite of these challenges, Annemarie manages to conjure up beautiful mouthwatering foods for frequent guests. I was pleased to find the recipes at the end of the book.
You will need to read this excellent book to discover what happens next..
Annemarie is a great story teller with her friendly enthusiasm coming through the pages. Certainly a joy to read, looking forward, in anticipation for the next instalment. A worthy 5 stars.
July 19, 2024
I love, love, loved this colourful and descriptive diary of running a large house in France, that was neglected and frankly dilapidated to the point of despair.
I could almost smell and hear with Annemarie’s prose, the scrubbing with soap of the old butchers block, hear the pock pock of Hilda Ogden the chickens roosting sounds, and imagine tasting the delicious feasts served up with baby new potatoes, luscious salads and creamy desserts they concocted.
Part travel diary and part culinary escapade these two kiwi adventurers certainly saw the best and worst of people !
The owners of the house whom they were loyal custodians for, should hang their heads in shame but it makes a great read and a rollicking story of late life adventurers !
I could almost smell and hear with Annemarie’s prose, the scrubbing with soap of the old butchers block, hear the pock pock of Hilda Ogden the chickens roosting sounds, and imagine tasting the delicious feasts served up with baby new potatoes, luscious salads and creamy desserts they concocted.
Part travel diary and part culinary escapade these two kiwi adventurers certainly saw the best and worst of people !
The owners of the house whom they were loyal custodians for, should hang their heads in shame but it makes a great read and a rollicking story of late life adventurers !
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2022
This is a memoir about a New Zealand couple’s courageous decision to pack their bags and move to France to take on the management of a French farmhouse used for rentals and paying guests.
It is an interesting and easy read and I enjoyed learning about their explorations and the people they met. Sadly, the job they travelled so far for was a disaster with unpleasant capricious employers who made their lives a misery, but the descriptions of the countryside, the animals and the village people who kindly befriended them were lovely.
Well-written and well-paced, I would recommend My French Platter for people interested in French food, houses and styles.
It is an interesting and easy read and I enjoyed learning about their explorations and the people they met. Sadly, the job they travelled so far for was a disaster with unpleasant capricious employers who made their lives a misery, but the descriptions of the countryside, the animals and the village people who kindly befriended them were lovely.
Well-written and well-paced, I would recommend My French Platter for people interested in French food, houses and styles.
January 16, 2021
My French Platter A Journey to a Dream life in France
What a delightful book! Steve and Annemarie decided to leave New Zealand for a year and go together as a middle age couple to France to work as caretakers of a French estate/ farm. The book is fascinating as Annemarie tells the story of how some folks expect the abnormal amount of work from their staff and others are very reasonable and fair. The description of the French countryside and small towns is beautiful. It was fortunate that they met some wonderful people there who made up for the first cruel employer. Looking forward to the second book. Love the recipes at the end of the book!
What a delightful book! Steve and Annemarie decided to leave New Zealand for a year and go together as a middle age couple to France to work as caretakers of a French estate/ farm. The book is fascinating as Annemarie tells the story of how some folks expect the abnormal amount of work from their staff and others are very reasonable and fair. The description of the French countryside and small towns is beautiful. It was fortunate that they met some wonderful people there who made up for the first cruel employer. Looking forward to the second book. Love the recipes at the end of the book!
September 18, 2020
Anne Marie writes with great description and humour. Her book was a delight to read. I didn’t put it down and read it in one sitting. If you have ever traveled in France this book will take you right back to the little villages and narrow roads. You can almost taste the food as she describes in detail the flavours of France. The recipes are an added bonus and I can highly recommend the chocolate terrine as I made it for a dinner party and got rave reviews. It’s a must read and set you up nicely for the next instalment of their travels.
November 20, 2020
When Annemarie and Steve set out from New Zealand to discover a new life in France, little did they realise what adventures awaited them as custodians of a chateau.
My French Platter beautifully illustrates their experiences and relationships with the owners and local people.
Annemarie gives the reader an insight into French culture, customs and gastronomy. We are also treated to her own mouthwatering recipes.
As a Francophile, living in France, I can’t wait to learn what happened next!
A great read!
My French Platter beautifully illustrates their experiences and relationships with the owners and local people.
Annemarie gives the reader an insight into French culture, customs and gastronomy. We are also treated to her own mouthwatering recipes.
As a Francophile, living in France, I can’t wait to learn what happened next!
A great read!
July 24, 2022
Loved the descriptions of the food served, the beauty of the region and the friendships they made while in France.
January 30, 2022
Lovely book/too many boring tangents
This book was really good when the author stuck to the main story of their work as caretakers, cooks, and caterers for the rich in France. However, far too often the writing became bogged down with too many details not pertinent to the main story. I really couldn’t have cared less about the cats and the chickens and the names of the chickens and what cat had to go the vet and which cat looked in the door then ran away. It was just too much.
There were too many tangents. Also, a lot of little stories within the book would begin like they had great significance. They didn’t; they were just page fillers.
Example: “Late one afternoon we walked up to explore our village. Unfortunately, everything was shut…enroute we passed a family playing boules…Their rooster was crowing at great throttle…we called out a friendly Bonjour and they responded. In the village two old gentlemen were having a natter over a fence and became chatty with us. They commented on how lovely it was to see the sunshine.”
At this point the author says she needs to take French lessons because it was hard to understand them. She had told the reader that many times before. Then she resumes,”Two days later we met the farmer next door.”
What? Nothing happened in the village? This sort of mundane drivel was thrown in over and over. Why tell us that late one afternoon you went to explore the village? Nothing happened. Sometimes this went on page after page. By the way, in the example I gave, nothing happened when they met the farmer two days later either. I don’t even know if his rooster crowed or if they called out a friendly greeting. I scanned over it. The rooster and hens were probably fine, because if they weren’t, I’m sure the author would have told us.
The actual tale of the house they were working in was a very interesting story. I wish the author would have stuck with the main plot, that of care takers of the farmhouse. I also wish she would have included more anecdotes of the eccentric, strange and awful employers. The entire story of their employment there, the state of the farmhouse, the dishonest and demanding owners, the amazing parties and incredible food- they all came together to make a very enjoyable and interesting read. For that, I would recommend this book.
This book was really good when the author stuck to the main story of their work as caretakers, cooks, and caterers for the rich in France. However, far too often the writing became bogged down with too many details not pertinent to the main story. I really couldn’t have cared less about the cats and the chickens and the names of the chickens and what cat had to go the vet and which cat looked in the door then ran away. It was just too much.
There were too many tangents. Also, a lot of little stories within the book would begin like they had great significance. They didn’t; they were just page fillers.
Example: “Late one afternoon we walked up to explore our village. Unfortunately, everything was shut…enroute we passed a family playing boules…Their rooster was crowing at great throttle…we called out a friendly Bonjour and they responded. In the village two old gentlemen were having a natter over a fence and became chatty with us. They commented on how lovely it was to see the sunshine.”
At this point the author says she needs to take French lessons because it was hard to understand them. She had told the reader that many times before. Then she resumes,”Two days later we met the farmer next door.”
What? Nothing happened in the village? This sort of mundane drivel was thrown in over and over. Why tell us that late one afternoon you went to explore the village? Nothing happened. Sometimes this went on page after page. By the way, in the example I gave, nothing happened when they met the farmer two days later either. I don’t even know if his rooster crowed or if they called out a friendly greeting. I scanned over it. The rooster and hens were probably fine, because if they weren’t, I’m sure the author would have told us.
The actual tale of the house they were working in was a very interesting story. I wish the author would have stuck with the main plot, that of care takers of the farmhouse. I also wish she would have included more anecdotes of the eccentric, strange and awful employers. The entire story of their employment there, the state of the farmhouse, the dishonest and demanding owners, the amazing parties and incredible food- they all came together to make a very enjoyable and interesting read. For that, I would recommend this book.
January 4, 2021
The minute I finished My French Platter: A Journey to a Dream Life in France, I realised I HAD to know what could possibly have happened next, so, of course, now I’ll be getting Annemarie Rawson’s follow-up book. She had me on the edge of my seat, avidly turning every interesting page after page, wondering how on earth she and her husband, Steve, were going to manage. Trial after trial, trauma after trauma, yet, as she says, still loving living in France, watching the sunset from their café chairs outside, enjoying the superb wine and beer France has to offer. Her style of writing is exquisite. She puts in complete descriptions of where she and Steve were, what everything looks like, the architectural and interior design of each house, room and garden, and even what every morsel of food tastes like—and it’s all perfect, not a word wasted. She took me there with her, and it wasn’t too much minutiae at all. I went armchair-travelling with her as she and Steve explored Provence, and even Italy. She had me laughing, sometimes with great amusement and at other times ruefully, about some of the situations they found themselves in. The chickens: "Getting them back in that evening was very easy. All I had to do was make chook noises and they followed me. They must have recognised an ‘old boiler’." And I learned more funny chicken behaviour: “I went to turn the light off. I could hear tapping on the glass and as I turned to see what it was I caught sight of two beady eyes and a coxcomb through the French doors. Oh Lord! Maggie Hatcher and the brood had come looking for us. We’d forgotten to feed them and to lock them in the coop, away from prowling foxes."
I became angrier and angrier with one of her employers. I was right there with her, wanting to give that awful man a sound slap! The author hooks you in, takes you with her with all your senses. You see rural France, hear its sounds, you feel you can touch its baguettes, you smell and taste everything this fascinating country has to offer. And, speaking of taste, I’m off now to follow one of the recipes she so kindly adds at the end of her book—chocolate terrine, mais bien sûr!
I became angrier and angrier with one of her employers. I was right there with her, wanting to give that awful man a sound slap! The author hooks you in, takes you with her with all your senses. You see rural France, hear its sounds, you feel you can touch its baguettes, you smell and taste everything this fascinating country has to offer. And, speaking of taste, I’m off now to follow one of the recipes she so kindly adds at the end of her book—chocolate terrine, mais bien sûr!
December 7, 2020
This is a gritty and very readable memoir of how a couple from New Zealand found a way to make living in France a reality. Annemarie and her husband Steve take up an offer of employment to be the housekeepers and event coordinators for a holiday home and art studio in south west France. Thinking they’d found their dream job, they rented out their home, said their goodbyes and moved to the other side of the world. There was something about the tone Annemarie uses from the start that hinted at the dream not being all they’d thought it would be and I couldn’t wait for the drama to play out.
They arrived in time to get the place ready for the tourist season, but there was more to do than the photos they’d been shown suggested. Having cleaned and scrubbed at the filth they found when they arrived, the next challenge was learning to work with the agent and owners to ensure the smooth running of the holiday let and artist retreat. Their lives took on a new routine of long days for a minimal financial reward, cramming in cleaning, housekeeping, cooking, front of house, gardening, animal care, pool maintenance, customer service and airport runs. They loved the area, the property and met many interesting and lovely people, both locally and the visitors to the Mas de Lavande. Most were quick to praise the welcome and service but fulfilling the never-ending and constantly changing demands of the owner proved to be almost impossible.
This is an honest and emotional account of the beginning of their French dream. I admired their energy, enthusiasm and strength of character, and the way they obviously worked well together as a team. Annemarie’s descriptions of the area, the food (recipes are included as a bonus) and the challenges they faced kept me turning the pages and willing them to succeed. Maybe they were a bit naïve at the beginning, but they did at least do more than just dream of a life in France and that always has to be commended. I can’t wait to read the next instalment of their French adventure.
They arrived in time to get the place ready for the tourist season, but there was more to do than the photos they’d been shown suggested. Having cleaned and scrubbed at the filth they found when they arrived, the next challenge was learning to work with the agent and owners to ensure the smooth running of the holiday let and artist retreat. Their lives took on a new routine of long days for a minimal financial reward, cramming in cleaning, housekeeping, cooking, front of house, gardening, animal care, pool maintenance, customer service and airport runs. They loved the area, the property and met many interesting and lovely people, both locally and the visitors to the Mas de Lavande. Most were quick to praise the welcome and service but fulfilling the never-ending and constantly changing demands of the owner proved to be almost impossible.
This is an honest and emotional account of the beginning of their French dream. I admired their energy, enthusiasm and strength of character, and the way they obviously worked well together as a team. Annemarie’s descriptions of the area, the food (recipes are included as a bonus) and the challenges they faced kept me turning the pages and willing them to succeed. Maybe they were a bit naïve at the beginning, but they did at least do more than just dream of a life in France and that always has to be commended. I can’t wait to read the next instalment of their French adventure.
September 26, 2020
Move abroad with a difference
I loved Annemarie's book and enjoyed it immensely. She has an easy way with words and it all comes across in a conversational, honest easy way.
Leaving their home in New Zealand she and her husband Steve set off for their adventures in France to act as property managers to a beautiful 15th Century Farmhouse. On arrival they are dismayed to find it all in a state of absolute neglect and wondered if they have maybe been a bit hasty. The reality is nothing like the pictures they were shown, have they been hoodwinked!
After a good night sleep and their determination to survive and succeed kicking starting, with heavy hearts they get down and dirty in the tasks of cleaning, stocktaking and getting the Farmhouse back to some semblance of order. After weeks of an enormous amount work they are finally looking forward to their jobs, this act alone shows the sheer strength of Annemarie and Steve's character. Along with Gabriel, Steve soon has the garden growing abundantly with herbs and vegetables whilst the chickens follow him and happily peck away at the ground. Managing to keep their sense of humour they plod on soon making some wonderful friends in the village and joining in local activities and exploring some of the local areas.
When things turned sour they were reliant on the friendships made with both French and English people, these friends became their saviours in their hour of need, all pulling together to help Annemarie and Steve. Looking forward to the sequel and hopefully a better life for them both...it cannot be any worse.
Annemarie includes some wonderful recipes at the back of her book...not being a fan of chocolate I look forward to trying the beetroot and carrot salad, sounds yummy.
I loved Annemarie's book and enjoyed it immensely. She has an easy way with words and it all comes across in a conversational, honest easy way.
Leaving their home in New Zealand she and her husband Steve set off for their adventures in France to act as property managers to a beautiful 15th Century Farmhouse. On arrival they are dismayed to find it all in a state of absolute neglect and wondered if they have maybe been a bit hasty. The reality is nothing like the pictures they were shown, have they been hoodwinked!
After a good night sleep and their determination to survive and succeed kicking starting, with heavy hearts they get down and dirty in the tasks of cleaning, stocktaking and getting the Farmhouse back to some semblance of order. After weeks of an enormous amount work they are finally looking forward to their jobs, this act alone shows the sheer strength of Annemarie and Steve's character. Along with Gabriel, Steve soon has the garden growing abundantly with herbs and vegetables whilst the chickens follow him and happily peck away at the ground. Managing to keep their sense of humour they plod on soon making some wonderful friends in the village and joining in local activities and exploring some of the local areas.
When things turned sour they were reliant on the friendships made with both French and English people, these friends became their saviours in their hour of need, all pulling together to help Annemarie and Steve. Looking forward to the sequel and hopefully a better life for them both...it cannot be any worse.
Annemarie includes some wonderful recipes at the back of her book...not being a fan of chocolate I look forward to trying the beetroot and carrot salad, sounds yummy.
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