I’m Andrew James. I studied French Culture and Language in Paris for years and write crime and conspiracy fiction set in the city. You’ll mostly find me blogging about Paris and its everyday mysteries and about my journey to getting published.
My blog is split into five strands:
Parisian Mysteries – exploring the unusual things to see in the French capital. These posts might feature common misconceptions about the city or weird and wonderful bits of information.
Hidden Treasures – beautiful, wonderful spots in Paris that aren’t immediately visible. Head inside somewhere unusual to experience the city’s secret side.
Dark Spaces – for those with an interest in the gloomy and macabre bowels of the city. Dare to go beneath the surface for an underground adventure? Recommendations on how to begin your journey.
City of Names – articles highlighting the famous and not-so-famous international names that appear on Parisian streets.
Writing – occasional posts about my progress (or lack thereof) in the world of publishing.
If you’re interested in unusual facts about the French capital, have a read.
Don’t forget to comment if you’ve enjoyed!
Andrew
Follow me on twitter: @AJ_author
Lucky I found you! Thank for sharing useful histories de Paris that Im eager to discover more.
Thanks so much. Am glad you like my posts. Thanks for stopping by and commenting.
Hi Andrew,
Thanks for checking out my blog, it allowed me to find yours. I particularly enjoyed reading your post about Inspiration in Unusual Places. I saw the same Hoarders show. I am a bit morbidly fascinated by the series and how people end up in these situations. Part of the reason I am in Paris for a month is because I also had a major birthday, only it was my 60th, so don’t feel too bad about turning 30! I want my art work to be a priority in my life but it has been very easy to let other obligations and interests take precedence, and if I don’t make it a priority why should anyone else treat it as such? You too need to make sure you keep your writing as a priority, don’t get too side tracked with your blog and other things.
I feel as though it is now or never, and I am using this month on my own in Paris as a ‘kick start’. A time to reflect on what I want to do in this last third of my life. It is difficult to think that two thirds or more of my time on this earth has passed, but it is a reality. I want to make this last third count.
You definitely need to keep writing. If your novel is half as interesting and well written as your blog it will definitely be published, and I will be sure to read it. All the best with your future endeavours.
Hi Trudy
Thanks so much for this wonderful comment! I really appreciate your kind remarks about my blog and my writing.
Also I totally agree with you about the now or never – I think life should always be treated that way to some degree. I’m inspired by your month away. Your photos and sketches are great. I loved looking at your metro sketches – imagining who the people were, what they looked like when you glimpsed them…
Paris is such a special place – this month you have there will be a time you remember for sure. Am glad you’ve prioritised the art in your life and am enjoying seeing it pop up on my blog reader!
Best,
Andrew
Thanks for dropping by. I do wish I’d come across your blog before my visit to Paris. I love checking out the less touristy spots.
Ah thanks! Am glad you liked my blog. Remember it for next time you’re in Paris. 🙂 Thanks again for having a read and for your kind comment. Andrew
Hi Andrew,
I love Paris almost as much as I love serendipity…together they bring wonderful new moment into ones life. Such as you reading my blog allowing me to discover yours.
Anthea
Hi Anthea,
Thanks so much for having a read of my posts and for leaving this comment – I thoroughly enjoyed your blog and am going to have to try a chevre and fig baguette sometime very soon!
Andrew
I just nominated you for a Very Inspiring Blogger Award. Feel free to accept or ignore!
Thanks Colin! So nice of you to include me. Just posted my response!
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Because I love reading your blog, I just nominated you for a Very Inspiring Blogger Award! I am aware you have already received a nomination and nominated others, but I thought I would give you another little piece of recognition for your fabulous blog! http://thejellyfisheffect.com/2014/11/27/very-inspiring-blogger-award/
ahh, thanks so much! Delighted to be on your list and looking forward to reading the others. 🙂
Hi Andrew I think your site’s got beautiful design and such interesting pieces, so I’m following! 🙂
I really enjoy your posts and look forward to your next.
Feel free to check out my writing about publishing: publishinginsights.org
Sherry
Thanks Sherry for stopping by and for your lovely compliments about the site. I really do appreciate it and will be sure to check out your writing. Thanks again. Andrew
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