'I've long wished perfumery to be taken seriously as an art, and for scent critics to be as fierce as opera critics, and for the wearers of certain "fragrances" to be hissed in public, while others are cheered. This year has brought Perfumes: The Guide by Luca Turin and Tania Sanchez, which I breathed in, rather than read, in one delighted gulp.' Hilary Mantel, Guardian 'An unexpected classic of criticism' - Philip Hensher, Spectator (Books of the Year) 'If you are at all interested in perfume, one of life's greatest sensual pleasures, this is an essential possession' David Sexton, Evening Standard 'This husband-and-wife team has produced a work of perfume criticism that is as gripping as any thriller.' Jan Moir, Daily Mail

LUCA TURIN is the man who perfume-lovers openly adore. He's the author of The Secret of Scent (Faber, 2006). His top-rated perfume is Guerlain's Mitsouko. TANIA SANCHEZ is journalist and a perfume collector and expert from New York. Her personal perfume collection numbers almost 2000 bottles. They are married and divide their time between Boston and London.