A Perfumer's Secret

Passion, rivalry and family secrets in the South of France. "An intriguing story." (Anne Girard, author of Madame Picasso)

Zoe inherits a perfume scent that could be the key to understanding her mother's long-lost family and hidden past. It could also help her win a prestigious fragrance contract-and defeat her passionate rival, Philippe, once and for all.

But when the formula is mysteriously stolen, she must embark on a life-changing quest to retrieve it. Set in the fragrant flower fields of Provence, this "beautifully written" (Readers' Favorite) tale will send you on a stunningly "descriptive journey into a perfumer's world" (best-selling author Juliette Sobanet).

Book club discussion guide included.

Interview with the Author

When I visited France after college, I "discovered" perfume. It seemed so glamorous and French, and the creation aspect fascinated me. To create perfume is to be an artist-and art has always inspired me.

The aspect of an inheritance and the fact that this story takes place in France make your novel sound similar to both A Paris Apartment and The Perfume Collector. What unique treasures will readers find in A Perfumer's Secret?

My novel is a trip to Provence, set to the rhythm of scent. Zoe, the main character, is so passionate about perfume that she sees everything through that lens, offering a fresh perspective of the world around her. In the novel, you'll also find plenty of flower fields, sidewalk cafés, romantic walks along the coast... And there is the excitement of competition, as Zoe tries to win a major fragrance contract.

Would you call this a France romance?

Yes, it's a South of France romance! There are actually a few love stories in this novel: mother-daughter relationships, first love, friendship. But the most prominent is the romance between Zoe and Philippe, two perfumers whose passion for perfume turns into passion for each other.

What do you hope readers will take away from A Perfumer's Secret?

I hope readers will rediscover scent and how just a whiff can transport us to a feeling, a place, a discovery. And I hope they will enjoy this little trip to Provence and the world of perfume!

If you like reading about passion, family secrets and romance set in France, you'll enjoy A Perfumer's Secret. Thanks for reading!