For those who are active in Book Clubs, my historical novels include Book Club Discussion Questions in the back of each book, including The Perfumer: Scent of Triumph. These questions are designed to facilitate book club discussions.
I've also prepared an Aromatrack list for this book, rather like a soundtrack. You might enjoy sharing vintage perfumes at a meeting; it's a fun way to involve all the senses in a book club.
Questions for Book Clubs
1. In the beginning of the story, Danielle is constrained by societal values, but as the story progresses, she shuns convention. Why do you think her beliefs and behavior changed?
2. Women’s career roles in history underwent seismic shifts during World War II. Do you think that Danielle’s motivation for business was external, internal, or both? Why?
3. How would today’s modern communications of mobile phones, email, and satellite media have changed this story? The relationship between Danielle and Jon? The war itself?
4. Danielle experienced many scenes through her sense of smell. What are your favorite olfactory observations in this story?
5. How does Danielle’s keen sense of smell add to setting and characterization?
6. Danielle and Max make the distinction between Germany and the Nazi party. How does this conflict affect their relationship? How do politics affect other relationships in their families?
7. When Danielle is launching her perfume line at Bullock’s Wilshire in Los Angles, she realizes she feels like an American. What do you think she meant by that? Do you have any stories of immigration in your own family?
8. Do you know what year women in your country gained the right to vote? The right to own property? Can you imagine how having new access to these rights might have motivated women? Why or why not?
9. As an entrepreneur, what were Danielle’s challenges and keys to success? Do you have any entrepreneurial ambitions, or have you ever started on a venture? Do you know where might you find business advice in your community or network?
