Why Do You Think This Story "The Scent Of Memory"?

Set against the backdrop of Paris in 1883 this story is a wonderful mix of friendship, art, love and trauma. It starts off as a bit of a murder mystery as 2 French models discover the artist they posed for is found dead. The story follows the lives of Fleur and Babette and shows how the artist's death has consequences for them both as their lives spiral out of control. I loved the fabulous descriptions of Paris in this era and felt transported into smokey cafes where artistic people came to drink, eat, write and talk. But there is a darkness throughout the book as issues such as sexual abuse, prostitution, poverty and mental illness tackled. This book opens up to us how artists at the time may have lived and shows us the wonders of Paris and the Montmartre in all its glory. It made me want to go and wander around an art gallery and appreciate the hardship and yet colourful life these people led. A wonderfully addictive read