“The Perfumer’s Secret is romantic and gritty, utterly captivating, and highly insightful about the constant human struggle to distinguish between integrity and truth. Neroli Lacey’s ability to hold a story line while building suspense and complexity is dazzling. This book is perfectly paced and great fun to read; it is suspenseful, crisp, and often witty; and it manages to be generous without lapsing into naivete. It marks the emergence of a tremendously wise and talented novelist.”—Andrew Solomon, National Book Award-winning author of Noonday Demon and Far from the Tree and former President of PEN

“Current, sophisticated, and sexy. Lacey had me with the first scent of bergamot in this high-octane romp through the beautiful Alpes Maritimes. Great action and conflict, great settings and characters—this book is a winner. I loved it.”—Gretchen Cherington author of Poetic License, and The Butcher, The Embezzler and the Fall Guy, Winner Maine Literary Award-Nonfiction 2024

“A mesmerizing drama. The lush descriptions of Grasse and the intricate world of perfume-making were enchanting right from the start. . . I became instantly fascinated by the world . . . Zandy’s character is relatable and complex . . .brilliant attention to detail and naturalistic dialogue, with emotions that are realistic, palpable, and intense. . . a beautifully written, emotionally resonant novel that left a lasting impression.”—Readers Favorite FIVE STARS

“I LOVE this book. So sassy, so relevant, and yet a classic. Hooked from page one.” —Julia Hobsbawm, writer, speaker, and broadcaster

“Will stay with you long after you turn the last page. Captivating . . . blending the allure of a love story with a dark secret and a heartrending choice.” —Louisa Treger, author of Madwoman and The Dragon Lady

“As original and complex as the finest perfumes! Weighing morality against honesty and honesty against consequences, this compelling book examines whether a family’s legacy enhances the truth or masks it.” —Mary Kay Zuravleff, author of American Ending

“I adored Zandy and couldn’t put the book down. For those who love pithy but elegant writing and who enjoy suspense when it is served up with sophisticated characters, an international flavor, and a taste of social commentary.” —Jude Berman author of The Vow and The Die, 2024 International Book Awards Winner in Visionary Fiction

“A feisty American film director turns her lens on a legendary French perfume house. Lacey directs the action with precision, expertly and concisely moving plotlines forward. She handles exposition skillfully. . . . Zandy. . . steals the show. . . a complex, tough, and relatable hero. A well-crafted tale of self-discovery with a realistically flawed but compelling protagonist.”—Kirkus

“Entranced by the mastery of Neroli Lacey's storytelling, The Perfumer’s Secret held me in its grip from start to finish. Drawing on gifts of exquisite observation and lavish literary description, Lacey gives life to the fabled French perfume industry, the sensory splendors of the South of France, and a cast of sympathetic and unforgettable characters. Reader beware: this is an all-nighter you won’t be able to put down!”—Elizabeth Harlan, author of Becoming Carly Klein

“A love of France’s centuries-old craft of making perfume shines bright throughout Lacey’s fast-paced debut. Questions of love, justice, and betrayal—and a dark family secret —will keep readers turning the pages of a novel sure to delight fans of women’s fiction.” —Sue Mell, author of A New Day