Country Life

The Bookseller

What a treat! Enhanced by knowing both Michelle and the Ariege...but still a thoughtful and interesting treatise on 'living the dream' and of identity...what does it mean to be a Brit? How comfortable can one feel living in a different language? Some of the things she says really resonated with me....I really enjoyed it and it will be thinking about it for a while!

by Mary Hope

An interesting read! I have often watched 'A Place in the Sun' on TV and always end up dreaming of owning such a property. A lovely large house with plenty of land to do whatever, with beautiful scenery all around. Very tempting! I can see how some would follow their dreams without any real thought beyond any potential pitfalls. Such as the cost of heating large houses during the winter. Or the upkeep for house/land when you get too old to cope. Another thought is the transport to the nearest airport or railway station, which could be miles away. There is so much more to think about. This book tells of the experiences of some who have moved to a remote corner of France. Stories from old-timers, newcomers, those wanting to returned to the UK. Those who feel isolated or those who become village celebrities. I have relatives that moved to France after they retired and loving it. I do recommend one reads this book, especially if you are thinking of moving to France, or any other country come to that.

by Jeanette

Interesting and honest coverage of the British ex-pat community in a fairly specific area of France. Wanders off into descriptions of local hiking trails, but otherwise the biographical sections were enjoyable.

by Turi Becker

This refreshingly honest travel narrative gives an unbiased view of everyday life for the British community living in a remote area tucked away in the corner of south-west France. The author’s ability to bring this piece of non-fiction to life through vivid imagery makes this book not only suitable for anybody thinking of moving abroad but also for those who love a good story.

The book starts with the narrator lost at a crossroad. Although a physical act of misdirection for the narrator, this is also a metaphor for those thinking of up-rooting their lives in Britain at the prospect of a better life abroad. Such a huge decision: which way to go? And what about those who have already uprooted? Should they stay? Michelle Lawson explores these decisions through the people she meets.

The author’s journey across the region seems all the more real as we see her struggling to get from A to B on her bicycle in the sweltering heat of summertime in France. I felt like I was right there with her; in fact I had to stop part way through this section of the book to go and get myself a nice cold drink! The people the author meets along the way are depicted so well it was like I was meeting them myself. As we learn of the ‘push’ factors for leaving Britain, and the ‘pull’ factors of moving abroad, a character that stood out to me was Tina. Tina’s life had become intolerable following her divorce, where she lived on a forever spinning wheel of juggling childcare, long working days, alongside medication to help her sleep. Her desire to escape this stressful lifestyle in the UK that was affecting her health, for a more laid-back and better quality of life abroad, must resonate with many people. But rather than being portrayed as a ‘happy every after’, Tina’s real-life story is tinged with sadness at her daughter’s choice to stay behind in the UK. A House at the End of the Track is jam-packed with real people just like Tina, each with their own unique and personal story.

This gritty and realistic travel narrative is a real gem of a read and an absolutely essential piece of equipment for anybody who is thinking of moving abroad, not just to France but to anywhere. I really enjoyed reading this book which left me feeling like I had been on long holiday but actually quite glad to be back home!

by Callie

Not your typical "I moved to France and my life is wonderful" book. The author interviews English people who have picked up stakes and moved to France. Particularly, to the Pyrenees. She finds out why they left the U.K., what they hoped for, and what the reality of life in France is. I found it interesting, and added much knowledge to my wife's and mine plans to relocate to France/Italy ourselves.

by Randal

Great read. This book had me on the edge of my seat waiting for more. Perfect to keep you amused to read over the winter months. With a great storyline that’s well written and easy to read.

by Lisa

An interesting take on the movements of British moving to France, particularly into the Pyrenees region. Discussing the 1862 book by British mountaineer, Charles Packe, which is still in print today, shows many people are still interested in seeking a new adventure. Not just another rosy/tinted view though, as there are many realistic narratives and discussions of some not so happy endings. A book that has a lot of merit, and if you have considered moving to another country this book will give you some food for thought.

by Kaye