If reading a novel dedicated to a murderer does not freak you out this is the one and by all means you should not skip it. The writing is great, the story and the plot very original, the characters (especially the murderer) extremely convincing. As for historical aspect of the novel, it is very well conveyed and the feeling of a different time is definitely there. After reading this book, you will probably know a lot more about production of perfume in France. The scent is something I did not really see as being that powerful, but it certainly is. The sense of smell, that is so important for the novel, is described so well that it really becomes an important part of the novel's atmosphere...It really all comes together to make the novel feel real. I can certainly remember being immersed in the novel while I was reading it. Nevertheless, for some reason the novel was too much for me. Too much of what? I can not really be precise.
I can say that I liked the novel to some extent yet I cannot say that I really enjoyed it. Reading detailed accounts about the psyche of a killer and all that murder…...not really too attractive to me. The end of life of such innocent creatures for such reasons and the success of it...I do not usually shy from strange themes, but I can not say that I can be impressed with a novel that is so dark or at least that is what I have seen in it... Maybe there is more to it then I have read. However original the novel still seems to me, there is something way too spooky and sinister about it. Actually, even after all these years thinking about it still makes my skin crawl. Perhaps it is a compliment to the writer. Making it all sound plausible and real and all that. Whatever be the case, it is not a novel I will reread. I have to admit that I consider it to be a good novel, but that is about it. There was not anything in it that really charmed me. Although the novels I pick up from the shelf are often depressive, this one did not have whatever it is that I enjoy reading. I do not plan to watch the film version... I was never particularly fascinated with serial killers and I think that is probably the focus of the film.
I can say that I liked the novel to some extent yet I cannot say that I really enjoyed it. Reading detailed accounts about the psyche of a killer and all that murder…...not really too attractive to me. The end of life of such innocent creatures for such reasons and the success of it...I do not usually shy from strange themes, but I can not say that I can be impressed with a novel that is so dark or at least that is what I have seen in it... Maybe there is more to it then I have read. However original the novel still seems to me, there is something way too spooky and sinister about it. Actually, even after all these years thinking about it still makes my skin crawl. Perhaps it is a compliment to the writer. Making it all sound plausible and real and all that. Whatever be the case, it is not a novel I will reread. I have to admit that I consider it to be a good novel, but that is about it. There was not anything in it that really charmed me. Although the novels I pick up from the shelf are often depressive, this one did not have whatever it is that I enjoy reading. I do not plan to watch the film version... I was never particularly fascinated with serial killers and I think that is probably the focus of the film.