A Lotus to Love: Perfume, Passion and Discovery in Egypt (Places in the Heart)

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Portia finds herself navigating the turbulent waters of grief after the loss of her husband. As she returns to her role in the perfume industry, she is met with a mix of warmth from her colleagues and a wave of anxiety about re-entering the professional world. Just when she thinks she might have a moment to catch her breath, her boss surprises her with an unexpected assignment: a trip to Egypt. The company is in search of a unique perfume that could evoke the essence of Cleopatra, aiming to create a fresh fragrance for their next launch.

Despite her initial hesitation, Portia sees this as an opportunity—a chance to escape her sorrow and immerse herself in the vibrant culture and ancient history of Egypt. As she embarks on this journey, Portia discovers not only the beauty of Egypt but also its rich history. She meets Nadir, an unofficial tour guide with a passion for archaeology. Financial constraints have prevented him from pursuing formal education in his field, but his knowledge and enthusiasm for Egyptian culture are infectious. Nadir becomes Portia’s guide through the bustling markets, ancient temples, and hidden gems of Egypt, sharing insights that bring the past to life.

Their shared experiences foster a deep connection between them. As they search for the elusive scent that could capture Cleopatra’s essence, Portia begins to open her heart again. What starts as a friendship blossoms into a tender romance, filled with moments of laughter and understanding. Nadir’s kindness and devotion stand in stark contrast to Portia’s lingering grief, providing her with a sense of hope and renewal.

The novel captures the complexities of grief beautifully through Portia’s journey. She navigates various stages of mourning while being supported by her children, friends, and colleagues. The author beautifully illustrates how loss can lead to self-reflection—Portia often questions what she could have done differently to save her husband and wrestles with feelings of anger at his absence. Yet, amidst this turmoil, she discovers that love can emerge from unexpected places.

While Shelley Kassian’s A Lotus to Love has emotional depth and historical intrigue, it does have its shortcomings. The story lacks significant drama or suspense that often adds spice to romantic fiction. Readers may find themselves yearning for more tension between the characters. Nevertheless, the story flows smoothly, with endearing characters and an engaging plot that keeps readers invested in Portia and Nadir’s journey. The author’s passion for perfumery shines through as readers learn about the art and science behind creating fragrances, making the story more interesting.


Reviewed By:

Author Shelley Kassian
Star Count 4/5
Format eBook
Page Count 320 pages
Publisher SPK Publishing
Publish Date 07-Jan-2024
ISBN 9781998848058
Bookshop.org Buy this Book
Issue January 2025
Category Romance
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