By chance, I came across "In the Merde for Love" sitting in a Little Free Library while on vacation in Fort Collins, Colorado. It's been ten years (or more) since I'd read "A Year in the Merde", and I thought it might be fun to check in on Paul West, an English expat learning about French idiosyncrasies while living in France.

The book came out in 2006, so it's no surprise that it gets compared to the novel (or movie for that matter) by Peter Mayle, "A Good Year". Personally, I think Ridley Scott's interpretation of the English scoundrel living in France is by far the best of all of them. Stephen Clarke, in my opinion, overshoots and ends up creating a weaker caricature in comparison. Instead of a lovable scoundrel, he produces someone who is more of a male-slut.

However, it's not a terrible read. There are some enjoyable parts and amusing observations about French culture, which I've always gotten a kick out of. It's interesting to see how an Englishman views the French way of life and the differences between the two cultures. The book also has some light-hearted moments that make it an easy and entertaining read. Overall, while it may not be a literary masterpiece, it's still worth a read if you're interested in French culture or just looking for a fun and轻松的 book to pass the time.

This story is not so funny as the first one. However, I still found myself enjoying the process of reading it.

The plot might not have been as hilarious, but it had its own charm. It took me on a different kind of journey, one that was perhaps a bit more subdued but no less engaging.

As I turned the pages, I was drawn into the characters' lives and their experiences. The author's writing style, although not as comical as before, was still captivating.

Even though it didn't make me burst out laughing like the first story, it had a certain appeal that kept me interested until the very end. It was a reminder that not all stories have to be side-splittingly funny to be enjoyable. Sometimes, a more understated and thought-provoking tale can have just as much impact.

In the end, I'm glad I took the time to read this story, even if it wasn't as funny as I had initially expected. It offered a different perspective and a unique reading experience that I will remember.

This book offers an enjoyable read for those who desire something easy and have a penchant for British humour.

It continues the adventures of Paul West from "A Year In The Merde". While that previous book centred around Paul's misadventures as he moved and adapted to the French way of life, this novel takes a different turn.

Here, the focus is more on his search for romance. We follow Paul as he embarks on this new journey, encountering various characters and situations along the way.

The story is filled with the author's trademark wit and charm, making it a light-hearted and entertaining read.

Whether you're a fan of the previous book or simply looking for a fun and engaging story, this novel is sure to delight.

It offers a unique perspective on life in France, with a touch of romance thrown in for good measure.

So, if you're in the mood for a轻松愉快的 read that will make you laugh out loud, give this book a try.

You won't be disappointed.

I had rather mixed feelings regarding the first 'adventures' presented in Paul West's "A Year in the Merde".

I only purchased this book because I had derived so much enjoyment from Stephen Clarke's non-fiction works, namely "1000 Years of Annoying the French" and "Talk to the Snail".

Thankfully, I made a good choice.

Rarely do I award five stars to fictional books, yet this one is so astonishingly realistic. It reads as if it were an actual account of events that could have befallen the author himself.

Moreover, it is witty, superbly written, and highly enjoyable. As such, I can do nothing but wholeheartedly recommend it.

What I particularly relished was the fact that the initial chapters were set outside of Paris, specifically in Corrèze and Île de Ré. This setting was far more "dépaysant" (as the French would put it) than the Paris that everyone is familiar with.

It added an extra layer of charm and authenticity to the story, making it a truly engaging read from start to finish.

Overall, "A Year in the Merde" is a must-read for anyone interested in a humorous and insightful take on life in France.

Bleh.

The French cultural stuff is truly the best part. It encompasses a rich tapestry of art, literature, cuisine, and fashion that has influenced the world for centuries. The elegance and sophistication of the French language add another layer of charm.

However, the narrator is insufferable. Their tone and attitude can be grating, detracting from the overall experience. It's a shame that such a great topic is marred by an unlikable narrator.

Despite this, one can still appreciate the beauty and significance of French culture. From the Louvre to the Eiffel Tower, from haute couture to fine wine, there is so much to explore and enjoy.

Perhaps if the narrator could tone down their obnoxiousness, more people would be able to fully embrace and understand the wonders of French culture.

Meh, actually.

This simple expression seems to convey a sense of indifference or mild dissatisfaction. It's a rather casual way of expressing one's thoughts or feelings.

Perhaps it's used when someone is not overly impressed or excited about something. It could be in response to a statement, an event, or an idea.

For example, if someone asks, "How was the movie?" and the response is "Meh, actually," it implies that the movie was just okay, nothing特别remarkable.

It can also be used to show a lack of enthusiasm or interest. Maybe someone suggests an activity, and the other person replies with "Meh, actually," indicating that they're not really keen on doing it.

Overall, "Meh, actually" is a concise and somewhat dismissive way of communicating one's less-than-enthusiastic attitude.

Merde actually: A review on Merde Actually

I truly struggle to put into words the numerous issues plaguing this book. Firstly, the narrator comes across as a twenty-something dudebro who continuously makes sexist remarks about women. What's worse, he exhibits a slight but noticeable ethnocentrism, similar to those who voted in favor of Brexit. His extreme straightness makes it almost painful to endure page after page of his nonsensical ramblings and his rather offensive observations about women and people of color.

Secondly, let's talk about the plot, or rather the lack thereof. To put it bluntly, this book squanders an inordinate number of pages, leaving you to question why you bothered to persevere through 400 pages of what feels like absolute drivel. I've witnessed even the worst soap operas with more coherent and engaging storylines than this novel.

Here's my advice. If you're eager to understand how French people are, the best thing to do is to actually go to France, immerse yourself in their culture, and refrain from making unfounded comparisons with your own country of origin. Simply accept and appreciate their unique way of life. But whatever you do, under no circumstances should you read this book.

When I embarked on this book, I still held the impression that the series was, in some manner, autobiographical. One might have expected that I could have noticed the disparity between the name of the author and that of the character. However, this had escaped my attention when I read the first installment, and it continued to do so as I initiated this one.

Interestingly, the book was actually more pleasurable to read upon realizing that it was not about actual events. Had it been based on real happenings, I would have had far less sympathy for the characters. As it stood, I found it easier to appreciate as a caricature rather than as reportage. By subtracting the concern that people are truly like this and my vague unease in rewarding them for it by purchasing their books, this becomes an entertaining cultural excursion.

It's rather fascinating how our initial perceptions can shape our reading experience. In this case, the realization that the book was not autobiographical actually enhanced my enjoyment. It allowed me to view the characters and their actions in a more lighthearted and perhaps even comical way. Instead of being burdened with the thought that these were real people with real problems, I could simply sit back and enjoy the story as a form of entertainment.

Overall, this reading experience has taught me the importance of keeping an open mind and not making assumptions based on initial impressions. It also shows how a simple shift in perspective can transform a book from something that might have been rather ordinary into an engaging and enjoyable read.

Read after a short stay in France, I have gained a profound understanding of this charming country.

France is renowned for its rich history, magnificent architecture, and exquisite cuisine. The moment I set foot in Paris, the City of Light, I was captivated by the grandeur of the Eiffel Tower and the elegance of the Louvre.

Walking along the Seine River, I could feel the romance in the air. The charming cafes and bistros served delicious pastries and fine wines, allowing me to savor the true essence of French life.

I also had the opportunity to explore the beautiful countryside of France. The rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages were like something out of a fairytale.

The people in France were friendly and welcoming, and their passion for life was truly infectious. Overall, my short stay in France was an unforgettable experience that left me longing to return again.

I look forward to exploring more of this wonderful country and discovering its many hidden treasures.

What a deception!

I obtained the second (this one) and the third volume at a book fair.

And I made the mistake of starting to read them in the wrong order, beginning with the other one first.

Surprisingly, it didn't matter much as the story was easy to follow and it actually made me laugh.

When I picked up this particular volume, I was anticipating the same kind of lighthearted and flippant humor.

I thought it might even be better since the author was in France, presumably dealing with the daily "merde" (French for crap).

However, what I found was a description of drunken evenings and unbridled lust.

The characters seemed to have a lust for any woman around, and the terms used to describe women were quite upsetting.

It was as if the author was downgrading female beauty with time, and the guys were looking at women like a farmer looks at his cattle.

Really, it was anything but nice and interesting.

If only I knew where to find the first volume, I would get it just to see where the story actually begins and how it all ties together.

Let me first say that I only read this sequel because one of the teachers I work with was so enthusiastic about how much I would love it.

Well, once again, this is a highly readable book. It is great for long solo trips and such. The main character, Paul, is actually almost tolerable in this one.

There are brief moments (all too few, actually, but it's certainly a step in the right direction, anyway) when Paul actually seems to have learned that different doesn't necessarily mean bad. However, he still remains a person about whom and about whose (mis)adventures I would normally not voluntarily choose to read.

Despite its flaws, the book does have some redeeming qualities. The writing is engaging, and the story moves along at a good pace. It's not a masterpiece, but it's an enjoyable read for those who are looking for something light and entertaining.

If you're a fan of the first book or if you're looking for a book to pass the time on a long trip, then this sequel might be worth checking out. Just don't expect too much.

Paul West, an Englishman residing in France, encounters his mother- and father-in-law while on a holiday with his girlfriend. During the holiday, a series of strange incidents (involving nudity) occur with the mother-in-law. As a result, the couple decides to continue their trip to the father-in-law's holiday home, but unfortunately, the situation doesn't improve. Florence breaks up with Paul after learning about the dismissal of the architect of his tearoom, who happens to be her ex-boyfriend.

Paul then returns to Paris, where he meets Alexa, his own ex-girlfriend and an artist. It's evident that there is a history between them, but Paul, true to his nature, engages in some rather strange behavior. He is also extremely busy with the completion and opening of his tearoom. Despite his busyness, Paul remains a true playboy and finds himself in some awkward situations. As time progresses, Paul develops deeper and deeper feelings for Alexa, his ex. Thanks to Nathalie, a journalist who has also had a relationship with Paul, he attempts to reconnect with Alexa.

After reading this book, I discovered that "Merde" is actually the sequel to "A Year In the Merde." However, it can be read independently without any issues. It's a wonderful book filled with plenty of humor and cultural differences, and it's definitely worth reading!