Meet Me in Monaco by Hazel Gaynor and Heather Webb is a captivating journey through love and perfumery in the 1950s Côte d’Azur, entwined with Grace Kelly’s enchanting wedding saga.

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I picked this book up on a whim because the cover reminded me of one of my recent favorites in the historical fiction genre.  Plus, when looking for summer reads I tend to gravitate to anything that will tear at the strings of my heart but also exploring beautiful locales.  This had the potential for both and it certainly delivered in the end.  It was also my first time reading both of these authors and it certainly won’t be the last.

As soon as I picked up MEET ME IN MONACO I was swept up into another world and I didn’t want to let go.  I read this in almost one sitting.  It was addictive from beginning to end.

This is the story of Sophie, a struggling French perfumer who only ever wanted to follow in her father’s footsteps and create beautiful scents.  She owns a small shop in Cannes and this starts during the film festival there.  Cannes is full of stars and celebrities and among them in Grace Kelly.  Sophie and Grace meet by chance when Ms. Kelly was hiding from the paparazzi and stumbled into her store.  And that one chance encounter also brought to Sophie’s doorstep one British photographer who really needed to capture the perfect image of Ms. Kelly if he was to keep his job back home.  What follows is a story of fate, love and second chances.  It read like a beautiful romance with our starcrossed lovers in the most romantic of places.  It was also a little heartbreaking, but remember what I said at the beginning of this review.  That’s exactly what I wanted.

If you enjoy reading about different types of professions I think you’ll also be as fascinated as me with Sophie’s job.  I loved seeing the process of creating a perfume.  The different notes and steps that go into finding the perfect balance.  It was really fascinating!

This is a perfect poolside read.  Intrigue, royalty, celebrities and romance.  The writing was smooth and flawless and it’s left me wanting to read more from this duo for sure.

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