Rosie M. reviewed on 10/6/2006 + 9 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 2

truly disturbing book about a boy born in 18th century Paris who has no scent, but who does have an otherworldly sense of smell of all that surrounds him. His apprenticeship with a perfumer instills in him a desire to produce the most beautiful, unique perfume in the world. The method he uses to reach his goal is truly horrifying. Grenoville (the boy) is a unique monster in that he enthralls without warmth - we want to have sympathy for an abused orphan and one who lacks that most essential physical persona of all humans: their scent - but we never do. The mores and culture of 18th century Paris are depicted beautifully, but Grenville is a hard character to care about.

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