A review by ella026
Base Notes by Lara Elena Donnelly

4.0

Okay, I loved this book, devoured it and now I'm sad and can't stop thinking about it.

Lara's characters always draw me in even if they are ambitious to a fault and destroy everyone around them. But hey Vic makes some great perfume so it's totally fine. The writing is equally stunning and I expect no less from Lara. Her turn of phrase is so clever and perfect describe what's being conveyed. These are some of my favourite quotes "as I watched a smile begin to bloom across his face like mold" and "He made a sound like something going wrong beneath the hood of the car." I just found them so charming. This mixed with the smell descriptions, which can be so hard to pull off given how subject it is, gives a beautiful veneer for such an ugly story. This is a bit of a tangent but I find that some of the best writing come from perfume reviews. They are amazing and I think authors should browse fragrantica even if they hate perfume, they have a real way with words.

If you want an update on Patric Suskind but with an added dose of the evils of capitalism and the devaluing of artistry for brand recognition then pick this up, you won't be disappointed. Now I am going to buy some perfume, gotta say this book isn't good for my bank balance.