I used to HATE the French defense. But, then i read an article on how you either love the French or hate the French. But to help myself better understand how to play against it, i started playing it myself. I must say that it offers black some really good counterattacking possibilities. However you must find a way, or make a way to have the bishop on c8 come to life, otherwise you are fighting a rook and a bishop down in the game. Just remember though, you love it or hate it. Well i had to try it, now its one of the only opening i play against e4