This is a lovely novel by an author I’ll keep watching and reading. It is the story of 32-year-old Iris, whose long-time fiancé has suddenly decided their relationship isn’t enough. Iris, who’d been planning her life around Ben, is unmoored. She’s also discovered that she has low fertility and if she ever plans to have her own children, she will have to find the money for treatments.
At the same time, she’s overlooked yet again at work, where her boss is her mentor/father figure, but also a member of the patriarchy, and gives opportunities that should go to Alice to her friend Nate, because…he’s a family man.
Enter Madame Rapacine, a Frenchwoman trained and excellent as a Nose…the creator of exquisite perfumes, and a dear friend of Iris’s. As such, she creates a signature scent for Iris, to complement her unique chemistry.
Then…things begin to happen. I wasn’t as thrilled with the middle of the book when all Iris attributes all the good things happening in her life to the perfume, but it is fun. When reality barges in, Iris doesn’t know what to believe. That struggle was credible and authentic, and I forgave the “magical middle” because it is that good. Well written, well plotted and lots of fabulous characters. Full Bloom was published on August 5, 2025, by Random House/Ballantine. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the review copy!
No comments:
Post a Comment