As the summer holidays draw to a close, there’s still time to indulge in some literary escapism, and we have the perfect selection of scent-inspired books to accompany your travels, weekends, and even sunny lunchtimes in the park…
For perfume lovers, the bookshelves are expanding alongside their fragrance collections, with a growing number of novels and non-fiction works inspired by the world of scent. Here are some captivating reads from the fragrant fiction section of our shelves, which will transport you to fragrant realms before autumn arrives.
Reading books inspired by scent deepens our appreciation for perfume by allowing us to explore the intricate relationship between fragrance and narrative. In a novel centred around scent, it not only celebrates the art of perfumery, but enhances our understanding of how scents can evoke memories, emotions, and atmospheres. When an author skillfully weaves scented descriptions into their storytelling, it creates a multi-sensory experience that transports readers to vividly scented scenes, enriching the overall atmosphere of the narrative.
As we delve into these fragrant tales, our love and knowledge of perfume become part of the reading experience, enabling us to connect more profoundly with the characters and their journeys. The nuances of scent can set the mood, evoke nostalgia, or even create tension within a story, making the act of reading a more immersive adventure.
These fragrant reads offer the perfect way to extend your summer of perfume, even if only in your imagination. Whether you prefer fiction or non-fiction, there’s a scent-inspired book to suit every taste. So, grab a fragrant tome, spritz on your favourite summer perfume, and lose yourself in the intoxicating world of literary scents. Now, which perfumed book would you like to peruse first…?
The Scent of You by Maggie Alderson
Immerse yourself in the world of Polly, a perfume blogger who finds solace in fragrance as her life unravels. Alderson’s vivid descriptions will have you almost smelling the scents on the page. The author’s passion for perfume shines through, from naming the protagonist after a beloved fragrance to creating a real Instagram account for Polly’s reviews. This novel is a delightful blend of scent, romance, and self-discovery.
The Perfume Garden by Kate Lord Brown
Brown weaves together two captivating stories in this evocative novel. Set in modern-day Valencia and during the Spanish Civil War, it follows perfumer Emma Temple as she uncovers family secrets. The author’s sensory descriptions are a highlight, transporting readers to sun-drenched Spain. While not focused solely on perfumery, the book beautifully illustrates how scent can evoke memories and emotions.
The Secret Ways of Perfume by Cristina Caboni
Elena Rossini’s extraordinary sense of smell is both a gift and a curse in this enchanting tale. Set against the backdrop of Paris, the story follows Elena’s quest to recreate a legendary family perfume recipe. Caboni’s writing captures the transformative power of scent and its ability to connect us to our past. This novel is a celebration of the art of perfumery and the secrets it holds.
The Perfume Collector by Kathleen Tessaro
Journey through time and across continents in this richly detailed historical novel. Grace Munroe’s unexpected inheritance leads her into the heart of the perfume world, uncovering the story of Eva D’Orsay, a 1920s socialite and fragrant muse. Tessaro’s passion for perfume is evident in her vivid scent descriptions. This book is perfect for those who love period dramas and the glamour of bygone eras.
The Scent Trail: A Journey of the Senses by Celia Lyttelton
For non-fiction enthusiasts, Lyttelton’s travelogue offers a fascinating exploration of perfume ingredients. Follow the author as she traces the origins of her bespoke fragrance, from exotic locales to ancient harvesting techniques. This book is a treasure trove of fragrant history and cultural insights, sure to inspire wanderlust in perfume lovers.
Written by Suzy Nightingale
