Elixir: A Parisian Perfume House and the Quest for the Secret of Life

An engaging account of the development of perfumes, elixirs, and organic chemistry. A great read.

The title, Elixir, and description having to do with "A Parisian Perfume House" is accurate but Dr. Levitt's most recent b, as her, "Short Bright Flash", provides the reader with a fascinating look at the history and narrative surrounding a topic one would seldom believe could be so interesting. Not only does the book explain the creative chemistry associated with the development of French perfumes, for me, it provides a unique look into French culture, life, and history around the time of the Revolution. Like my reading of a Short Bright Flash, I found Elixir hard to put down. I enthusiastically recommend it for Summer reading.

Elixir is a great read, capturing the action - and fragrances - of Paris in the first half of the 19th century. Written for a general audience, it would also be a wonderful gift for anyone in your circle who has ever taken organic chemistry.