Another +1 for the duolingo app – certainly helps with reading and speaking – nothing beats talking to the natives for understanding though

apps are good for learning.

but immersing yourself in french is really handy to bring on listening (identification of words) and pronuciation. French tv, music, papers magazines.

But find a french speaker/ tutor and meet with them regularly.

PS: how/ why did you choose Bellac? I’d love to retire to france, but unsure how to find a place (a town rather than a house).

This place might be useful http://livemocha.com/

Je suis désolé, je ne parle pas français , mais mon chien est à l’aise en Tchécoslovaquie si cela est toute aide

Hadn’t noticed you were moving to Bellac! Unfortunately, Bellac has become a synonym in my family for shithole / hell due to having one of the grimmest campsites we ever stayed in across many, many summers of traipsing round France. Nearby Chateauponsac is lovely though.

I did note that your post said “near” Bellac though, in which case I’m sure it’s lovely!