54 pages • 1 hour read
Perfume: The Story of a Murderer
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Book Brief
255
Novel • Fiction
France • 18th Century
1985
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Perfume: The Story of a Murderer by Patrick Süskind follows Jean-Baptiste Grenouille, an 18th-century French orphan with an extraordinary sense of smell who becomes obsessed with creating the perfect scent, leading him to murder. The novel explores themes of obsession, the charismatic power of evil, and the relationship between scent and emotion. The source material includes depictions of violence, murder, and cannibalization.
Mysterious
Dark
Unnerving
Gritty
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
499,907 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Patrick Süskind's Perfume: The Story of a Murderer is praised for its vivid, sensory-rich prose and intricate depiction of 18th-century France. Readers admire its unique premise and compelling narrative. However, some criticize its graphic content and moral ambiguity. It is a controversial yet captivating exploration of obsession and identity.
Who Should Read Perfume: The Story of a Murderer?
Readers who relish dark, psychological thrillers with a focus on sensory experiences will appreciate Perfume: The Story of a Murderer by Patrick Süskind. Similar to The Picture of Dorian Gray and American Psycho, fans of intricate, atmospheric narratives and morally complex characters will find this book compelling.
499,907 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Madame Gaillard
Madame Gaillard
The head of the orphanage where Grenouille is raised, known for running her institution with strict impartiality. Her past experiences have left her emotionally indifferent and wary of Grenouille's unusual abilities.
Grimal
Grimal
A tanner who takes Grenouille into his service after he leaves the orphanage. Known for his demanding nature, he treats Grenouille as a laborer more than a person.
Giuseppe Baldini
Giuseppe Baldini
An aging master perfumer and glover who becomes Grenouille's employer in Paris. His once-renowned shop is crowded and cluttered, struggling to keep up with more innovative rivals.
Antoine Richis
Antoine Richis
A wealthy and influential man in Grasse and the father of Laure Richis. He is depicted as ambitious, with plans to elevate his family's social standing through his daughter's marriage.
255
Novel • Fiction
France • 18th Century
1985
Adult
18+ years
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