The Collector of Dying Breaths: A Novel of Suspense

New York Times bestselling author M. J. Rose’s “wondrously original” (Providence Journal) suspense novel featuring perfumer Jac L’Etoile “combines fascinating history, torrid romance, and a compelling mystery” (Associated Press).Florence, Italy—1533: An orphan named René le Florentin is plucked from poverty to become not only the greatest perfumer in the country, but also the most dangerous, creating deadly poisons for his Queen, Catherine de Medici, to use against her rivals. But while mixing herbs and essences under the light of flickering candles, René can’t begin to imagine the tragic and personal consequences for which his lethal potions will be responsible. Paris, France—The Present:Renowned mythologist Jac L’Etoile becomes obsessed with René le Florentin—who may have been working on an elixir that would unlock the secret to immortality. Together with her estranged lover, Griffin, they confront an eccentric heiress in possession of a world-class art collection, a woman who has her own dark purpose for the elixir…and believes the end will justify her deadly means. Fiery and lush, set against deep, wild forests and dimly lit chateaus, this gothic tale zigzags from the violent days of Catherine de Medici’s court to twenty-first-century France. Sara Gruen, New York Times bestselling author of Water for Elephants, raves about the book: “Mysterious, magical, and mythical. What a joy to read!”

Associated Press

"M.J. Rose's latest is breathtaking. The Collector of Dying Breaths combines fascinating history, torrid romance and a compelling mystery into a marvelous package that will entice fans of Anne Rice and Diana Gabaldon…Rose has taken an interesting premise and uses history to tell her tale....an original reading experience.”

Free Lance-Star

“What can I say; M.J. Rose has done it again. She presents a story so intricate and mesmerizing that the reader can get lost in the pages…an excellent choice for avid book clubbers to discuss and debate.”

Library Journal (starred)

"Rose’s latest venture into myth and reality is a page-turning, alluring concoction of fiction infused with fantastical yet actual history. Readers will be charmed by her well-drawn and memorable characters, and they will be mesmerized by her enchanting narrative, which takes them on a mystical and magical journey."

Publishers Weekly

"Crisp, evocative prose elevates this above other paranormal thrillers."

Romantic Times (FOUR-AND-A-HALF STARS TOP PICK)

"Rose masterfully combines romance, mystery, and dual timelines…The storyline and extensive historical details…are fascinating.”

Providence Journal

"Wondrously original... elegantly written. Rose manages to utterly suspend our disbelief in a book that leaves us, appropriately enough, breathless."

or so lethal. I could not stop reading it!” -- C.W. Gortner, author of The Confessions of Catherine de Medici

“From the labyrinthine alleyways of 16th century Paris to the danger-infused woodlands of 21st century Fontainebleau, M.J. Rose has crafted a superb, mesmerizing tale of two people separated by centuries yet linked by a haunting secret. Poison, obsession and undying love have never been so enticing

About the Author

New York Times bestselling author M.J. Rose grew up in New York City exploring the labyrinthine galleries of the Metropolitan Museum and the dark tunnels and lush gardens of Central Park. She was the author of more than a dozen novels, the founder of the first marketing company for authors, AuthorBuzz.com and cofounder of 1001DarkNights.com Her website is MJRose.com.

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