The Book of Lost Fragrances: A Novel of Suspense

Last night I finished The Book of Lost Fragrances:  A Novel of Suspense by M. J. Rose.  This is the fourth book I've read by Ms. Rose and I have never been disappointed.

Of the many things I enjoy in a book by this wonderful author is that I learn something far beyond the plot line of the story.  In this case the world of fragrances opened up to me.  The history, spiritual and creation of fragrances were are new and engrossing.  The glossary at the end informed me and held my interest just as the story line had. 

Many groups have reason to want ancient memory tools that will aid in remembering past lives.  When a perfumer discovers the shards of an ancient Egyptian pot containing waxy residue he seeks the secret of the fragrance that will unlock those forgotten memories.  He wants to gift the shards and to the Dalai Lama but others have their own reason to seek the secret even at the risk of death. 

Truth can often be stranger than fiction.  In this case Rose uses some unusual facts to carry and form her story.  In 2007 the Chinese government banned the reincarnation of Tibet's living Buddhas without the permission China's atheist leaders.  Cleopatra's love of fragrance and the perfume factory that was built for her are documented.  While Dr. Malachai Samuels is not a real person the work he does helping children with severe emotional or physical problems through past life therapy is practiced in this country.  The catacombs under Paris along with the people who can be found there are a fact and Rose visited them as part of her research.

The plot of this book could be classified as mystery and you can enjoy it just on that level.  However I believe it will draw you into the history and legend as well.  This book is amazing, even compared to the others in the series. 

M. J. Rose has a lot of books to her credit.  The titles in this series are:  The Reincarnationist, The Hypnoist, and The Memorist.