3.88 AVERAGE


wasn't the right book for the time ... perhaps, I will try again later
emotional mysterious sad slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

Felt like the story was advancing but in the end - no real resolution or conclusion

this one was not for me, couldn't finish.

Beautifully written, and beautifully told. Just enough magic, and just enough science to make a believable yet enchanting read.
(Audiobook)

Overall, I'd say this was a 3.5 for me.
Are you transported by the smell just after a summer rain? Do some smells remind you of your grandmother's kitchen? If you identify with smells and they evoke certain memories for you, then this book might just be up your alley.

This book has 3 separate parts in my opinion an Emmeline experiences different environments. She lives on an isolated island where her father cultivates a reality. Then she lives in a small seaside community called Secret Cove with Colette and Henry. Finally, she travels to the big city and experiences the polar opposite of her initial childhood. The scents are her touchstone, but how will she choose to use her super special smelling talent.

I think the middle portion of the book was most dear to me. Some of the parts with her father and on the island are brutal and harsh. The kindness Colette and Henry show Emmeline is amazing and likely what sees her through her transition to society. Unfortunately, I think Emmeline takes a huge selfish turn when she goes to the city and loses sight of not only her newfound parents, but also the beloved dog Dodge. That part broke my heart!

The final portion in the big city where there is an opportunity to harness the use of her supersmelling ability instead of being mocked endlessly for her "Nose" in middle and high school.
The question is will the people and work she did there make her happy.

I hated her bullying classmate and the situation she endured was awful. Ahh the worst of school is what this brings up! Also, she's so unconsiderate of the kindest people, maybe many teenagers are, but I was really disappointed in Emmeline in the 3rd section of the book.

After reading this all, I am glad I didn't grow up on a super desolate island!

I certainly might notice or note smells more intentionally after reading this book.
adventurous reflective sad medium-paced

2.5
gruezelda_reads's profile picture

gruezelda_reads's review against another edition

DID NOT FINISH

Missed book club and just wasn’t interested enough to finish

Almost magical novel

Beautiful lyrical novel about a little girl growing up, searching her self and her history. The way the story is written - full of descriptions of smells and sensations it - feels real and immersive at all times.
adventurous emotional mysterious reflective fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes