After she wrote that article in the Mail last year, it seemed like just about everyone had an opinion on Sam Brick. Love her or hate her, for a while you couldn’t get away from the media storm that became known as ‘Brickgate’
James and I have had our fair share of unpleasant comments made about us on social media since we started SFN. It never fails to amaze me how people who don’t actually ‘know’ you, feel able to pass judgement on your very existence. Even so, I was completely and utterly shocked at the level of vitriol directed at Sam.
So who is the real Sam Brick? I know Sam personally and trust me, she’s not only a smart, funny, highly intelligent woman, she’s also a lovely person and a very good friend. Sam’s also been an SFN member since the early days and we’re delighted to be bringing you an exclusive serialisation of the opening chapters of her book Head Over Heels in France - Falling in Love in the Lot.
Generally I tend to avoid books about life in France like the plague. There's usually far too many anecdotes about ruddy cheeked yokels doing amusing things with sheep. Or ex-pats dealing with escaping llamas. And random French words dropped into the middle of a paragraph just to show that the author is 'au fait' with the language.
This book is different, Sam tells it like it is. Yes, the summers are gorgeous and the rose chilled, but the winters can be long and boring, the wallpaper vile and male personal grooming still leaves a lot to be desired.
But this isn't just a book about France. It's a truly heartwarming tale of someone turning their life around. It's a really honest book and I was touched by her openness on the subject of depression and relationships.
Starting on Monday we will be starting an exclusive serialisation of the opening chapters of her book. Sam will be online to answer any questions and at the end of the period, we’ll be giving one lucky member the chance to win a signed copy.
I looked at the articles (but not really the book, so can't comment) and she does seem a little vain. I can't believe she could experience so much cattiness over her looks. I must say I couldn't bear a husband who criticised my weight all the time, sounds a total nightmare.
Trying to work out if Sam Brick was/is a journalist. Was she the lady that made a statement, which got misinterpreted?
Was Sam Brick in Big Brother?
Aw, c'mon Cate. Tell it like it is...don't beat about the bush....stop sitting on the fence...call a spade a spade!
Luv ya!!
*Catharine: Erm... TBH, I wonder if you could be a little more condescending and patronising?*
I can try.
"I have only ever dated men who kept a strict eye on my figure. My partners are not only boyfriends but weight-loss coaches.
My first love continually reminded me that one can never be too rich or too thin, and my husband of five years frequently tells me that if I put on weight he will divorce me."
Well good for you.
Excellent review by Cate.
Catharine; when did I say it was ok for a photographer to work for free? I also think if you talk to James (skype conversations) you will know that my job is sufferable to pay the bills at the end of the month. It is a "good job", but only for that reason. If only yo knew how close I've come to quitting on many an occasion, even at the risk of having nothing as back up. I just don't get the story and I wondered if it is tongue in cheek?
Stuart - unlike your good self what has a job and thinks it is ok to "work" as a photographer for free, some of us James, Sam and myself (used) to make a living by writing / shooting ( photos not lions) until people started filing "free" content and posting "free" photos.
I think you can dot the I's and cross the T's....
I am going to read it though :D
How on earth do you "know " that she is delusional and narcissistic?
TBH Ellis , I guess you have no understanding of what being a woman is about - silly comment on my part - of course you wouldn't - you're a bloke.
I dont get it? She's nowhere near as pretty as my wife!! So why would she write about it. Is this all tongue in cheek? Sorry if I don't express myself very well, I dont speak very good English. Please someone tell me is this serious?
The book sound delightful and I am looking forward to reading the extracts.
She needs a new photographer. I could do better than that. Left side totally in shadow.