Entre Nous: A Woman's Guide to Finding Her Inner French Girl

I have a thing for books which celebrate the French way of life so bought this book to add to my collection which includes Parisian Chic by Ines de la Fressange, Two Lipsticks and a Lover by Helena Frith Powell and How to Shrug Like the French by Charles Timoney. Amazon do not expressly state that this book is aimed at the American audience so I was a bit surprised when I read the reviews on the front of the book. The author lived in France for a number of years so this book is a recollection of her experiences there. It references her French friend as a source of style inspiration, as well as providing cute little boxes throughout the book which provide outlines of famous French actresses, writers and the like. The book is divided into sections on the body, the head and the heart, the cooking and the home, all of which are interesting to read about. The author's adoration for the French way of living is plain to see, although it does seem to simplify the French a bit too much; I assume for the American readers, who can simply read about and then copy her tips. I found this book to be a pleasant read, which can be dipped into at leisure.

My origin is half French, I spend most of my time in France and my best friends are either French or Swiss French. At first I was shocked to discover how very French I actually turn out to be as described in the book, and how the traditions and values that I've been bequeathed are very French too. But then the word "archetypal" is mentioned in the proloque and you'd better bear in mind all throughout your reading that this book is more about the ideal French woman and how to bring out the archetypal French woman in you rather than a description of what French women actually are like. Though many of my friends and acquaintances fit into the French girl description, I know scores of French women who are nosey, frumpy, tacky and gauche as anybody under the sun. Especially if you've never been to France, don't be misled: this book is full of the typical prejudices and stereotypes about the French women as seen through the gawking eyes of the American outsider who thinks the grass is always greener in Gaulle. There are also some mistakes in the book, like ascribing Madame de Pompadour as Louis XIV's lover (she was Louis XV's) and the fact that other women reviewed as favourite French girls (Anaïs Nin, Catherine de Medici, Marie Antoinette or Pauline de Rothschild) are not even French. Anyway, the book makes interesting beach reading. The prose is feisty, fast-paced and you'll find the book hard to put down.

I moved to Paris in April, and found that so many things are different here. I am not just speaking of the langage. In this book- chapter one starts the understanding, if you really want to understand why American & French women are so different.This book breaks down some basis ground rules - and explains the history and background - and sometimes even gives you a laugh in doing so. Also, added are great tips to watch some movies to help, and some powerful french women to give you additional background.(like Coco)I read this while gong to work( and the author was on the target on this topic too), and highlighted many passages. This book helped me understand- French women do not hate American women, they just see us in a different light ..In closing- I think, this small but good book, is a must read for anyone, who wants to understand and grow as a person- to engage in a higher standard of living ..because that is what it comes down to in the end.

A nice little book which will give you some hints for labels and perfume and some stylish etiquette tips. However, it is a little silly when the author states that all French women have affairs and are happy with their husbands doing it or that you don't see them eating in public. Aside from that its a sweet little book which will give you a happy outlook on life.

I totally enjoyed this book. I've always admired French women, they have something we in general do not. I think it is that they are more prepared to put themselves first, to spend time (and money) on themselves, to not let themselves go. A big part of it is that age is seen differently in France. Here in Britain and the U.S. one is superannuated at about 45 max. In France, the benefits of age in terms of confidence, knowledge and self-respect outweigh a few wrinkles. A Frenchwoman is a woman through and through, regardless of age. Her style is about what suits her, not the latest designer label. There is much to learn from this book!

Lovely book, one of those you keep going back to and don't have to read cover to cover. Pick it up often and really enjoy it. My car isn't very well so always take it with me when I'm driving as this is the book I'll read whilst waiting for the AA or if I have a hospital appointment and think I may have to wait a while.

A beautifully written book describing what it's like to actually be a french woman. There is such a contrast here between how a french girl lives compared to an english girl and I found it a very entertaining and informative read. I won't be passing this book on in a hurry!

Excellent read, if had time, would read in one sitting. Very good writing style, many recommendations, books and films suggested to watch, great insight into French culture. Recommended.