Adore October 2021

I n Debra Shriver's third book about the city of New Orleans and her first on Paris, she takes you on a journey of self-reflection — a sabbatical from her decades-long, high-powered life and career in New York City. With a one-way ticket to Paris, she did what is known in New Orleans as the French leave. My grandmother used this phrase often with a little wink at the end of a long debutante ball or wedding reception. By definition, a French leave is a custom which began in 18th century France that means going away from a gathering without taking leave of the host or hostess or to go away without permission or notice. And that's exactly what Deb did. With little fanfare and few goodbyes, Deb escaped Manhattan and her job for a much-needed time-out. After years of a 24/7 schedule and holidays spent in her second home in New Orleans, she stepped back and slipped away. She writes, "In France, very few things are done in haste and time is the silent ingredient." The French Leave: From Paris To Orleans Parish , is a stunning book of luscious

French Leave DEBRA SHRIVER'S by k at y danos

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ADORE • OCTOBER 2021