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Linda Kovic-Skow is a best-selling author in travel in France. Originally from Seattle, she currently winters in Gilbert, Arizona and spends summers on a boat in the San Juan Islands. She earned an Associate Degree in Medical Assisting in 1978 from North Seattle Community College and a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Seattle University in 1985. She has been married for 29 years, has two daughters and a Shetland sheepdog, named Abby. An enthusiastic traveler, Linda also enjoys hiking, boating, gardening and socializing with friends. "French Illusions: My Story as an American Au Pair in the Loire Valley," is her debut memoir and the culmination of a three-year project. The sequel, "French Illusions: From Tours to Paris," will be available fall of 2014.
Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite
French Illusions - My Story as an American Au Pair in the Loire Valley (Book 1) by Linda Kovic-Skow is the author's true story which makes for a very interesting read. Linda Kovic-Skow wants to become an international stewardess and she needs to be bilingual for that. Linda decides to become an au pair in France to become more familiar with the language. Linda goes to work at the Chateau de Montclair with Monsieur Dubois and his family. Her life takes a turn when she meets Adam, a young student. It becomes more complicated and in this story she takes readers along with her on her adventures.
The book is an honest account of the author's life and her dreams to travel the world. The book is insightful and it captures the beauty of the Loire Valley. There are also some French words scattered here and there throughout the story. The story is about how Linda tries to adjust to the family and the difficulties she faces. The clash of personalities, the conflict, and the tension is another aspect in the author's life at the Chateau which she has captured very well.
The Loire Valley is the backdrop of the story. I liked the development of the characters; the author's writing is descriptive and elevates the scenic beauty of the place. It is a fast paced story that will keep readers interested till the very end.
