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A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes
Every scent tells a story.
The last thing Nia wants is to be branded a "Sinsory." Where she comes from, that's just as deadly as the devastating plagues that sweep through their land. That's why she keeps her unusually keen sense of smell a secret. Only two people in the city of Yerat know of her special her beloved Auntie and her best friend, Fox. But when the worst plague in a century hits their desert continent, all of that suddenly changes.
An invitation arrives in the shape of a jar of blackcurrant jam for Nia to attend the Cloister, a select and secluded school for children with heightened senses. There she meets Scentiers, like her, but also Gazers, Whisper-Gatherers, and many more, whose sensory powers go far beyond what regular folk can smell, see, or hear.
It's there that Nia learns her nose knows far more than she ever dreamed . . . maybe enough to find the cure for the plague. Or even sniff out the sinister secrets hiding in the Cloister's walls.
The Inquisitor's Tale meets Impossible Creatures in this immersive middle grade fantasy adventure that follows a girl who must use her remarkable sense of smell to save the world from a perilous plague.
The last thing Nia wants is to be branded a "Sinsory." Where she comes from, that's just as deadly as the devastating plagues that sweep through their land. That's why she keeps her unusually keen sense of smell a secret. Only two people in the city of Yerat know of her special her beloved Auntie and her best friend, Fox. But when the worst plague in a century hits their desert continent, all of that suddenly changes.
An invitation arrives in the shape of a jar of blackcurrant jam for Nia to attend the Cloister, a select and secluded school for children with heightened senses. There she meets Scentiers, like her, but also Gazers, Whisper-Gatherers, and many more, whose sensory powers go far beyond what regular folk can smell, see, or hear.
It's there that Nia learns her nose knows far more than she ever dreamed . . . maybe enough to find the cure for the plague. Or even sniff out the sinister secrets hiding in the Cloister's walls.
The Inquisitor's Tale meets Impossible Creatures in this immersive middle grade fantasy adventure that follows a girl who must use her remarkable sense of smell to save the world from a perilous plague.
352 pages, Hardcover
Published January 13, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
January 13, 2026
The author has an amazing imagination and conveys it so well in this story. This is a middle grade book and took me on quite an adventure. I loved the character of Nia, a 12 year old girl. She has to save the world from a plague with help from her friends at the cloister. This has several tense and fun moments. There was a surprise twist as to how this plague came about, too. Outstanding performance by the narrator. Highly recommend.
I was blessed with an audio ARC. Thank you, NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased. Enjoy!
I was blessed with an audio ARC. Thank you, NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased. Enjoy!
October 19, 2025
This is a reimagined superhero tale because what are superheroes except people with extra abilities? These people have heightened senses of smell, taste, sight, etc. I enjoyed the book, but I had a hard time getting past the idea that the plague spreads by touch and not air and yet the cure can only be spread by air. I'm not a doctor, but I had a hard time with that contrast. It seemed like a very strange magic system. However, I remind myself that I am not the target audience. Would a kid believe that spread is by touch and cure is by air? I think they probably would. I appreciated the fact that this is NOT one of those middle grade books where the kids must save the day because the adults are too silly/stupid/unreliable. Rather, the kids get to save the day because the kids are the ones with the abilities. Which is the way I greatly prefer it. I also liked the way the city, the desert, and the cloister were described. Overall, I did not find the book to be riveting, but I suspect a 12-year-old might. I received a free digital ARC.
October 2, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, Jake Halpern, Peter Kujawinski, and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars
The overall concept of this book was interesting. The magical system was nothing like I had read before. I wasn't expecting this book to have such dark conversations and imagery. Some of those aspects felt like it was more YA than for a middle-grade story. I was going to love this book. However, I didn't love it, nor did I hate it. It was a mid-read for me. I'm curious to see what these authors come up with for another story. I would give it a try.
3.5 stars
The overall concept of this book was interesting. The magical system was nothing like I had read before. I wasn't expecting this book to have such dark conversations and imagery. Some of those aspects felt like it was more YA than for a middle-grade story. I was going to love this book. However, I didn't love it, nor did I hate it. It was a mid-read for me. I'm curious to see what these authors come up with for another story. I would give it a try.
July 1, 2025
"A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes" is a GREAT dare I say AMAZING new middle grade novel. It follows a 12 year old girl named Nia, who has been hiding the fact that she is a sinsory, someone with superpower senses(specifically scent). But when a plague hits her city, Nia and friends must use their sinsory powers to procure a "curefume", that will hopefully cure the infected.
This was such a unique standalone middle grade novel. A city constantly at threat from plagues, super powers that relate to having very strong senses, and plague cures made from scent, sound, etc. It was fast paced, adventurous, and I loved the friends Nia started off with as well as made along the way. I was able to read this in 2 days, and found it enjoyable even as an adult, even knowing the target audience is much younger. I highly recommend adding this to any middle school readers shelf!
5/5 stars
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
This was such a unique standalone middle grade novel. A city constantly at threat from plagues, super powers that relate to having very strong senses, and plague cures made from scent, sound, etc. It was fast paced, adventurous, and I loved the friends Nia started off with as well as made along the way. I was able to read this in 2 days, and found it enjoyable even as an adult, even knowing the target audience is much younger. I highly recommend adding this to any middle school readers shelf!
5/5 stars
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review
August 6, 2025
2.5
So… it was good but there were several things that took my rating down. There was a lot of language, d words and h words. It was rather dark at times and there were several parts that were disturbing. I did like Nia though, she was good. Though, I kept getting confused between Lime and Lowe because of their names. It was a good story and I liked the idea behind it, but it kinda dragged in the middle and felt like it just wasn’t going anywhere. All in all, this book wasn’t for me and sadly not one that I can just hand to anyone to read.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-arc of this book.
So… it was good but there were several things that took my rating down. There was a lot of language, d words and h words. It was rather dark at times and there were several parts that were disturbing. I did like Nia though, she was good. Though, I kept getting confused between Lime and Lowe because of their names. It was a good story and I liked the idea behind it, but it kinda dragged in the middle and felt like it just wasn’t going anywhere. All in all, this book wasn’t for me and sadly not one that I can just hand to anyone to read.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-arc of this book.
July 20, 2025
My rating: 3.5
Twelve-year old Nia lives in the port town of Yerat where the only things more dangerous than the gangs are the plagues that arrive by ship. She and her friend Fox live on the streets and in the sewers, using Nia’s amazing sense of smell to survive. But Nia’s mother always warned her to keep her ‘sinsory’ ability a secret.
Just as a new plague takes hold in the city, the Dowager – a rich sensory living in Yerat - discovers Nia’s secret and invites her to join the Cloister. Nia escapes the city to study at the Cloister with other children with heightened senses. In her quest to discover the ‘curefume’ for the latest plague, Nia uncovers more secrets about the Cloister and its sinsories than she bargained for.
A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes is a fast-moving fantasy with lots of twists and turns. But I felt the emphasis on plot let down the intriguing characters. Often, I was left wanting to understand more about the bad guys’ motives while the action moved on. Without giving away any spoilers, the motivation behind the antagonists was not clear/strong enough to justify what they did. I know I would have cared more about the characters and their plight if the narrative had included a few more moments where the action slowed down and made me care about their connections and emotional states more often.
Despite the potentially dark subject matter, A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes is fun fantasy read. The authors have created a rich world. I would have loved to spend a little more time exploring that world and the characters within it.
Thank you to Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group and NetGalley for providing the e-arc for my honest review.
Twelve-year old Nia lives in the port town of Yerat where the only things more dangerous than the gangs are the plagues that arrive by ship. She and her friend Fox live on the streets and in the sewers, using Nia’s amazing sense of smell to survive. But Nia’s mother always warned her to keep her ‘sinsory’ ability a secret.
Just as a new plague takes hold in the city, the Dowager – a rich sensory living in Yerat - discovers Nia’s secret and invites her to join the Cloister. Nia escapes the city to study at the Cloister with other children with heightened senses. In her quest to discover the ‘curefume’ for the latest plague, Nia uncovers more secrets about the Cloister and its sinsories than she bargained for.
A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes is a fast-moving fantasy with lots of twists and turns. But I felt the emphasis on plot let down the intriguing characters. Often, I was left wanting to understand more about the bad guys’ motives while the action moved on. Without giving away any spoilers, the motivation behind the antagonists was not clear/strong enough to justify what they did. I know I would have cared more about the characters and their plight if the narrative had included a few more moments where the action slowed down and made me care about their connections and emotional states more often.
Despite the potentially dark subject matter, A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes is fun fantasy read. The authors have created a rich world. I would have loved to spend a little more time exploring that world and the characters within it.
Thank you to Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group and NetGalley for providing the e-arc for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Nia has always had a powerful sense of smell, one more developed than nearly anyone else in her community. In the city of Yerat, the Cloister has traditionally been the home to people born with gifts like Nia’s, and these “sinsories” are the individuals who protect Yerat from the plagues the city frequently endures. When Nia’s skills become obvious, the Cloister invites Nia to join their ranks, particularly because another plague is on the horizon and Nia’s nose might be the key to saving the city. Leaving her best friend Fox and her familiar life behind is not easy, however, and Nia must realize her true place and purpose before the plague finds its way to her doorstep. This unique fantasy novel transports readers to a desert land that is constantly awaiting the arrival of a plague that may decimate the population. As a result, details are included that illustrate the fear and superstition surrounding the people of Yerat and give readers a better idea of what life in this fictional land is like. Similarly, frequent and detailed descriptions of smells make Nia’s ability more profound and comprehensible for readers who may not have an equal level of olfactory skill. Brief chapters and an intriguing premise make this book a good selection for confident middle grade readers with an interest in fantasy storytelling without scenes of intense violence or romance; however, instances of peril occur with some frequency. Additionally, the connections Nia shares with Fox and her auntie are relatable and give the book a quality that is approachable for youth. This is an entertaining addition to fantasy novel collections for middle grade readers.
September 25, 2025
“𝙴𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢 𝚜𝚌𝚎𝚗𝚝 𝚝𝚎𝚕𝚕𝚜 𝚊 𝚜𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚢” 🍋🥔🦴🌊🦷🦎🧪🔥🛶🐪👃👅✋🏻💉🩸🛌🏜️🪣
*This book was gifted by netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!*
This is such a unique and interesting little universe, I was hooked from the beginning. Having now lived through our own modern day plague this definitely hits differently.
In a tale of plagues and perfumes you follow a twelve year old orphan named Nia as she lives on the street side by side with her bestie Fox. These two rambunctious kids are some of the most tenacious and resilient kids you will ever meet.
They live on the street and just barely get by with stealing what they need here and there. Nia might seem like a normal poor little girl but you see she has a secret. She has a very rare power, her sense of smell is the strongest you’ll ever encounter. In this little world there are people with the power to smell, taste, and touch beyond normal human senses. These powerful people are known as the cloister and they are relied on to help cure any plague and illness that comes about and save mankind. Not everyone loves the cloister tho infact not many people do. Due to this a lot of people with these powers go into hiding refusing to let anyone know of their abilities, hence Nia’s secret. However much Nia doesn’t want to be in the cloister she’ll have no choice soon but to join. A plague is coming and Nia might be the only one able to save them.
The friendships built in this little world are so incredible and beautiful. I was sobbing with every interaction between Fox and Nia. There was not a dry eye to be seen for most of this book.
*This book was gifted by netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!*
This is such a unique and interesting little universe, I was hooked from the beginning. Having now lived through our own modern day plague this definitely hits differently.
In a tale of plagues and perfumes you follow a twelve year old orphan named Nia as she lives on the street side by side with her bestie Fox. These two rambunctious kids are some of the most tenacious and resilient kids you will ever meet.
They live on the street and just barely get by with stealing what they need here and there. Nia might seem like a normal poor little girl but you see she has a secret. She has a very rare power, her sense of smell is the strongest you’ll ever encounter. In this little world there are people with the power to smell, taste, and touch beyond normal human senses. These powerful people are known as the cloister and they are relied on to help cure any plague and illness that comes about and save mankind. Not everyone loves the cloister tho infact not many people do. Due to this a lot of people with these powers go into hiding refusing to let anyone know of their abilities, hence Nia’s secret. However much Nia doesn’t want to be in the cloister she’ll have no choice soon but to join. A plague is coming and Nia might be the only one able to save them.
The friendships built in this little world are so incredible and beautiful. I was sobbing with every interaction between Fox and Nia. There was not a dry eye to be seen for most of this book.
October 29, 2025
A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes by Jake Halpern and Peter Kujawinski
5 out of 5 stars
ARC- Releases Jan 13, 2026
Thank you to Macmillan, Jake, Peter, and NetGalley for the opportunity to ARC read the book! This review is of my honest opinion 🥰
Nia has an AMAZING sense of smell that gets her sent to a special school for those that have heightened senses. This skill allows Nia to help find and create a cure a plague that has swept through the continent. Come on the journey and read about how Nia and her friends find the courage to help ensure the safety of others all while uncovering a dark secret.
A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes is now my second 5-star read of the year! You may all notice that this book is geared towards middle-grade-aged children. I'm here to say that as a 25-year-old, I loved this just as much as I would have in those grades. I will also say that if this had been released back when I was in school and we had a copy in the library, I am positive that this book would have been just as popular in my school as Percy Jackson was.
I loved how you could find characters in the book that would match real-life people and gave them a place. Such as Fox with his stutter or Lowe who people were afraid of, but was a kind and misunderstood boy. It gave them all a personal touch that everyone, especially students, could relate to.
Overall, it was a well-written story that I could see being continued in some way. Though it works as a single book, I would enjoy seeing what happens with the characters after everything.
5 out of 5 stars
ARC- Releases Jan 13, 2026
Thank you to Macmillan, Jake, Peter, and NetGalley for the opportunity to ARC read the book! This review is of my honest opinion 🥰
Nia has an AMAZING sense of smell that gets her sent to a special school for those that have heightened senses. This skill allows Nia to help find and create a cure a plague that has swept through the continent. Come on the journey and read about how Nia and her friends find the courage to help ensure the safety of others all while uncovering a dark secret.
A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes is now my second 5-star read of the year! You may all notice that this book is geared towards middle-grade-aged children. I'm here to say that as a 25-year-old, I loved this just as much as I would have in those grades. I will also say that if this had been released back when I was in school and we had a copy in the library, I am positive that this book would have been just as popular in my school as Percy Jackson was.
I loved how you could find characters in the book that would match real-life people and gave them a place. Such as Fox with his stutter or Lowe who people were afraid of, but was a kind and misunderstood boy. It gave them all a personal touch that everyone, especially students, could relate to.
Overall, it was a well-written story that I could see being continued in some way. Though it works as a single book, I would enjoy seeing what happens with the characters after everything.
November 17, 2025
**My thanks to Roaring Brook Press for providing me with an advanced review copy via NetGalley**
3 stars
I enjoyed this middle grade fantasy adventure, in which a girl with incredible powers of smell attempts to use the resources of the mysterious and exclusive tower of ‘Sinsories,’ secretive people with heightened sensory abilities, to stop a plague ravaging her home. I particularly liked the friendships and dubious alliances she made throughout the book, and how the story made clear that adults can have understandable reasons for doing shady things but still need to be held responsible for their actions.
The worldbuilding could be a little rocky at times, and the Sinsories’ powers felt under-explained, but the characters were interesting and easy to root for. My biggest complaint was that Nia was able to correctly name and source the exotic and rare scents she encountered, rather than merely describing the scent, as I doubt she’s managed to learn the names and had the chance to smell half the valuable ingredients she encounters over the plot in her life so far. I expected a darker tone near the climax but was surprised to find that the story avoided the event(s) I had been anticipating; for that reason among others I think it’s appropriate for younger middle grade readers. I’d certainly recommend this title to middle grade fantasy fans.
3 stars
I enjoyed this middle grade fantasy adventure, in which a girl with incredible powers of smell attempts to use the resources of the mysterious and exclusive tower of ‘Sinsories,’ secretive people with heightened sensory abilities, to stop a plague ravaging her home. I particularly liked the friendships and dubious alliances she made throughout the book, and how the story made clear that adults can have understandable reasons for doing shady things but still need to be held responsible for their actions.
The worldbuilding could be a little rocky at times, and the Sinsories’ powers felt under-explained, but the characters were interesting and easy to root for. My biggest complaint was that Nia was able to correctly name and source the exotic and rare scents she encountered, rather than merely describing the scent, as I doubt she’s managed to learn the names and had the chance to smell half the valuable ingredients she encounters over the plot in her life so far. I expected a darker tone near the climax but was surprised to find that the story avoided the event(s) I had been anticipating; for that reason among others I think it’s appropriate for younger middle grade readers. I’d certainly recommend this title to middle grade fantasy fans.
January 14, 2026
A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes introduces the reader to a rather dark world. Our main character Nia and her best friend Fox are orphans and thieves. They live in a world where water is scarce. Plagues occur every few years. A group who live in a tower called the Cloister are both revered and vilified.
Those in the cloister have special abilities that allow them to find cures for the plagues.
The plagues are interesting because they are only passed by touch. The cures are administered via airborne methods. I’m a microbiologist, so that was something my mind kept rebelling against.
The intended audience might accept the explanation the authors provide, but given we’ve just come off a plague in our own generation I think the middle grade reader might question the world building.
The book does fall into the category of middle grade books that cast the adults (at least some of them) as the villains of the story. The book does balance that with a few trustworthy adults and teens.
I did enjoy the book. I was very interested in the plagues being broken down by their scents, and the scents being the key to solving the puzzle of the antidote.
I listened to the audiobook. I recommend that method for reading this book.
Thanks to Netgalley and Brilliance Audio for access to the audiobook.
Those in the cloister have special abilities that allow them to find cures for the plagues.
The plagues are interesting because they are only passed by touch. The cures are administered via airborne methods. I’m a microbiologist, so that was something my mind kept rebelling against.
The intended audience might accept the explanation the authors provide, but given we’ve just come off a plague in our own generation I think the middle grade reader might question the world building.
The book does fall into the category of middle grade books that cast the adults (at least some of them) as the villains of the story. The book does balance that with a few trustworthy adults and teens.
I did enjoy the book. I was very interested in the plagues being broken down by their scents, and the scents being the key to solving the puzzle of the antidote.
I listened to the audiobook. I recommend that method for reading this book.
Thanks to Netgalley and Brilliance Audio for access to the audiobook.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
My thanks for the audio ARC goes to NetGalley and Brilliance Audio. I'm voluntarily leaving a review, and all opinions are my own.
Genre: Fantasy
Audience: Older Middle Grade (ages 10-13ish)
Language: There are a few curse words
Violence: There are deaths but not gruesome
I was incredibly interested in reading A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes because of the combination of a girl's magical sense and the feeling of potions.
This was a fun story of resilience, coming-of-age, and creative story-telling.
I loved how we see a sweeping view of Nia's life, including living on the street, being at her aunt's home, and in the cloistered building with the others who have sensory talents beyond the norm. It really is an epic fantasy for kids. The few swear words turned me off slightly because I was surprised they were in it. One character mentions her father having an affair, however, details were not really shared.
Some characters are fighting to help Nia, and others are clear enemies. But there are some surprises. You'll have to see if you can find them along the way. You might even find a surprise ally.
I do recommend this book for your advanced young readers.
Happy reading!
Genre: Fantasy
Audience: Older Middle Grade (ages 10-13ish)
Language: There are a few curse words
Violence: There are deaths but not gruesome
I was incredibly interested in reading A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes because of the combination of a girl's magical sense and the feeling of potions.
This was a fun story of resilience, coming-of-age, and creative story-telling.
I loved how we see a sweeping view of Nia's life, including living on the street, being at her aunt's home, and in the cloistered building with the others who have sensory talents beyond the norm. It really is an epic fantasy for kids. The few swear words turned me off slightly because I was surprised they were in it. One character mentions her father having an affair, however, details were not really shared.
Some characters are fighting to help Nia, and others are clear enemies. But there are some surprises. You'll have to see if you can find them along the way. You might even find a surprise ally.
I do recommend this book for your advanced young readers.
Happy reading!
November 26, 2025
A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes by Jake Halpern & Peter Kujawinski is a thrilling upper-middle-grade fantasy set in the desert city of Yerat, a society constantly threatened by devastating plagues. What truly sets this book apart is its brilliant magic system, where the Sinsories (usually children) are born with supernaturally heightened senses.
Twelve-year-old Nia must hide her Sinsory ability, as society fears and brands the gift as evil. When a new, terrifying plague whispers through Yerat, Nia receives an invitation to the mysterious, secluded Cloister, where Sinsories develop cures. There, Nia discovers something sinister is going on and makes the bold decision to escape the Cloister and find the true source of the plague herself.
I absolutely loved this book and its creative use of the five senses as magic. I quickly became attached to the characters (especially Nia’s best friend, Fox) and wished for more backstory. While the book contains some mild language (like 'damn' and 'hell'), the handling of the violence and darker themes is done well; the book doesn't shy away from the scarier aspects, which I believe young readers will appreciate.
My only critiques are that the Sinsories’ powers felt somewhat underexplained, and the antagonist’s motivations needed more clarity. Despite these minor issues, I wholeheartedly recommend this novel and have already purchased it for the library. I desperately hope for a sequel to keep exploring this unique world!
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and Macmillan Children's in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Twelve-year-old Nia must hide her Sinsory ability, as society fears and brands the gift as evil. When a new, terrifying plague whispers through Yerat, Nia receives an invitation to the mysterious, secluded Cloister, where Sinsories develop cures. There, Nia discovers something sinister is going on and makes the bold decision to escape the Cloister and find the true source of the plague herself.
I absolutely loved this book and its creative use of the five senses as magic. I quickly became attached to the characters (especially Nia’s best friend, Fox) and wished for more backstory. While the book contains some mild language (like 'damn' and 'hell'), the handling of the violence and darker themes is done well; the book doesn't shy away from the scarier aspects, which I believe young readers will appreciate.
My only critiques are that the Sinsories’ powers felt somewhat underexplained, and the antagonist’s motivations needed more clarity. Despite these minor issues, I wholeheartedly recommend this novel and have already purchased it for the library. I desperately hope for a sequel to keep exploring this unique world!
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and Macmillan Children's in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for sending me this e-arc!!!
I really enjoyed this one. 'A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes' is a delightful tale that is suitable for both children and adults. The story centers around Nia, who has amazing abilities to smell things, both near and far, but is afraid to advertise her ability for fear of being called a Sinsory. The tale follows her and her friends on a tale of self-acceptance and adventure.
I loved the unique concepts exhibited in this book. As I read this, the story wove itself around my mind as I slowly devoured all of the information related to being a Sinsory, the different types of Sinsories, the different types and names of Plagues, how cures for the plagues were discovered, etc. How unique!
I truly think that anyone who picks this up will enjoy it.
4.5/5 stars.
I really enjoyed this one. 'A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes' is a delightful tale that is suitable for both children and adults. The story centers around Nia, who has amazing abilities to smell things, both near and far, but is afraid to advertise her ability for fear of being called a Sinsory. The tale follows her and her friends on a tale of self-acceptance and adventure.
I loved the unique concepts exhibited in this book. As I read this, the story wove itself around my mind as I slowly devoured all of the information related to being a Sinsory, the different types of Sinsories, the different types and names of Plagues, how cures for the plagues were discovered, etc. How unique!
I truly think that anyone who picks this up will enjoy it.
4.5/5 stars.
October 9, 2025
A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes is the story of Nia, a girl with an extra special sense of smell. She is a sinsory. Although she has hidden her talent for most of her life, she is found out and invited to the Cloister; the tower where the mysteriously talented sinsories live. At the same time, a plague is let loose on the population and people start dying everywhere. The rest of the book is a race to find a cure. Along the way, startling truths are uncovered. This is a story of friendship, betrayal and bravery. It is perfect for middle grades on up. There are scenes of peril, a lot of death and memories of losing a parent.
I received an advance reader copy for free. All opinions are my own.
I received an advance reader copy for free. All opinions are my own.
October 18, 2025
The age range for this book is 10-14. However it drew this adult reader into the story immediately and kept my attention until the final word.
Nia is a Sinsory in a world where that can be as dangerous as any plague. She has learned to hide it well as she lived in the streets of Yerat alongside her best friend, Fox. Even after finding family, she continues to hide her talent.
The Cloister is a school for children of her talent and others with wide ranging talents. She is invited to join just as another plague emerges. Nia, along with new found friends, Lime and Lowe, must discover the source to find the cure....and determine who started the plague itself.
Enjoy the adventure. Invest in the characters. Cross your fingers for a sequel.
Nia is a Sinsory in a world where that can be as dangerous as any plague. She has learned to hide it well as she lived in the streets of Yerat alongside her best friend, Fox. Even after finding family, she continues to hide her talent.
The Cloister is a school for children of her talent and others with wide ranging talents. She is invited to join just as another plague emerges. Nia, along with new found friends, Lime and Lowe, must discover the source to find the cure....and determine who started the plague itself.
Enjoy the adventure. Invest in the characters. Cross your fingers for a sequel.
January 29, 2026
I had such a good time with this!
I don't read very much middle grade, but this one sounded so unique.
Nia doesn't want anyone to know about her gift. Most people would call it a curse. She can smell everything. If certain people found out, they would call her a Sinsory. Then she would be locked up in a windowless tower for the rest of her life.
Sinsories have heightened senses. During a plague they are called upon to create a cure. They have saved countless lives, but most people only remember when they get it wrong. Nia wants no part of that. But with a new plague threatening her loved ones, she may not have a choice.
This was great. I love the characters and it's such a unique story.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for an early copy.
I don't read very much middle grade, but this one sounded so unique.
Nia doesn't want anyone to know about her gift. Most people would call it a curse. She can smell everything. If certain people found out, they would call her a Sinsory. Then she would be locked up in a windowless tower for the rest of her life.
Sinsories have heightened senses. During a plague they are called upon to create a cure. They have saved countless lives, but most people only remember when they get it wrong. Nia wants no part of that. But with a new plague threatening her loved ones, she may not have a choice.
This was great. I love the characters and it's such a unique story.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for an early copy.
July 30, 2025
This seems pretty unique in the fantasy world. Nia has a truly gifted sense of smell. So much so that she might be able to find a cure to the current plague. As Nia is recruited for the special place called "the Cloister" she discovers that not all is as it should be. The Cloister was founded to help people, and the people need a lot of help, not only because they live in a desert, but because plagues keep coming. Nia and her new friends from the Cloister have to try to figure out what is going on, and how to cure the plague.
This is a good adventure with lots of twists and plenty of danger.
This is a good adventure with lots of twists and plenty of danger.
September 14, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! This story took us into a unique world quite unlike anything else I've read. The world-building was great and I could visualize being in the story with the characters. The characters were well developed and easy to grow attached to and care about. Plot twists kept me on my toes and helped make this book an engaging, interesting adventure.
A great book for middle-grades readers interested in fantasy and adventure. Long enough to allow for thorough world-building and character development, but not so long that it ever becomes a slog or intimidating to pick up.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC.
A great book for middle-grades readers interested in fantasy and adventure. Long enough to allow for thorough world-building and character development, but not so long that it ever becomes a slog or intimidating to pick up.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an audio ARC.
I think this book is good for its target audience. I did think it started off slow, but sped up once we truly got intot the story. Some elements seemed to be inspired a little bit by the historical miasma theory that I thought was interesting to bring in to a fantasy setting. Some of the characters we are also introduced to also have super powers, which we see a variety of different abilities throughout the book. I thought the characters were interesting, definitely perfect for a middle grade audience. The narrator did a good job with this one and bringing the characters to life.
I think this book is good for its target audience. I did think it started off slow, but sped up once we truly got intot the story. Some elements seemed to be inspired a little bit by the historical miasma theory that I thought was interesting to bring in to a fantasy setting. Some of the characters we are also introduced to also have super powers, which we see a variety of different abilities throughout the book. I thought the characters were interesting, definitely perfect for a middle grade audience. The narrator did a good job with this one and bringing the characters to life.
January 14, 2026
Middle grade fantasy is not my usual genre, which might be why I liked this book so much. The worldbuilding and rules of magic are so inventive and so unlimited by the rules of other magical worlds. It is so hard to read a middle grade fantasy that doesn't feel exactly like another one. Personally, I also like a middle grade book with actual stakes - like the potential end of the world. Actual evil villains with actual evil intentions. Does this make this book better for older middle grade? Sure. But it's worth it for a better book overall. This is an easy recommendation for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy.
January 19, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for this advanced copy of the audiobook!
This was a ride. Magical realism. Secret societies. Plagues. And the greed of popularity and control.
This was a wonderful story, fit for upper middle school aged children. There is mention of death, everything. That comes with deadly plagues, and the struggle to survive.
Each character must overcome trauma from their past in order to set the world back into balance. Development of each character has been a delight to watch unfold. On the heels of Covid, this does ring a little too close to home. But I think that would serve for a splendid literary discussion as an English class novel.
This was a ride. Magical realism. Secret societies. Plagues. And the greed of popularity and control.
This was a wonderful story, fit for upper middle school aged children. There is mention of death, everything. That comes with deadly plagues, and the struggle to survive.
Each character must overcome trauma from their past in order to set the world back into balance. Development of each character has been a delight to watch unfold. On the heels of Covid, this does ring a little too close to home. But I think that would serve for a splendid literary discussion as an English class novel.
January 22, 2026
This is the most fun I've had reading a middle-grade novel in some time. I kept reaching for it over the other adult novels I was reading at the time.
With a cast of delightful characters, high stakes, and a unique magic system utilizing the senses, 'Plagues and Perfumes' was an exciting adventure from start to finish. I felt utterly transported to the ominous Cloister and the streets of Yerat and didn't want to leave!
Read if you like 'The Inquisitor's Tale' by Adam Gidwitz or the 'Lightfall' series by Tim Probert.
Thank you to NetGalley and MacMillan Children's for the ARC in exchange for a review.
9/10 or 4.5 stars
With a cast of delightful characters, high stakes, and a unique magic system utilizing the senses, 'Plagues and Perfumes' was an exciting adventure from start to finish. I felt utterly transported to the ominous Cloister and the streets of Yerat and didn't want to leave!
Read if you like 'The Inquisitor's Tale' by Adam Gidwitz or the 'Lightfall' series by Tim Probert.
Thank you to NetGalley and MacMillan Children's for the ARC in exchange for a review.
9/10 or 4.5 stars
July 14, 2025
A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes is a beautiful and endearing middle-grade story. The concept was so unique and so interesting that I don't believe I've ever come across anything like this. This is the type of book I would have devoured as a child in my early, budding book lover days!
The magical elements, the secretive school, and the sensory-based powers had me hooked! Nia's adventure as a "sinsory"
was compelling, and her being both a danger and a gift was a chef's kiss! I loved this little world, and it was absolutely adorable.
The magical elements, the secretive school, and the sensory-based powers had me hooked! Nia's adventure as a "sinsory"
was compelling, and her being both a danger and a gift was a chef's kiss! I loved this little world, and it was absolutely adorable.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
While this book has an interesting premise it suffers from one significant flaw that I believe will make it a difficult sell for the age group it is intended. That flaw is worldbuilding. Not the actual world itself but how the authors go about introducing the world. It is such an amazing concept and decent book but how the world is introduced throughout the chapters will be incredibly confusing for the middle school age group. Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for giving me this eARC to review!
January 22, 2026
It didn't hit right for me. Special school for special girl with special talents that must be kept a secret-- she's got scent abilities but it fell flat for me because it seemed overly complicated and convoluted. There were the quirky characters like Fox and the Aunt, and the girl herself, but I couldn't get a grasp at the start about what was happening, why, and where.
It also was distracting because the cover gives graphic novel feel so I actually thought it was but then realized it was narrative. Alas, it didn't work for me.
It also was distracting because the cover gives graphic novel feel so I actually thought it was but then realized it was narrative. Alas, it didn't work for me.
January 30, 2026
A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes (Hardcover)
by Jake Halpern
A rather dark book for children's literature. I would suggest strongly it read in upper elementary and middle school. The magical concept of sense magic is unique. The book has some greater themes of acceptance, and pride that may help these students understand that everyone is unique and should be valued for their abilities. I found the descriptions of violence, and disease uneasy for younger audiences.
by Jake Halpern
A rather dark book for children's literature. I would suggest strongly it read in upper elementary and middle school. The magical concept of sense magic is unique. The book has some greater themes of acceptance, and pride that may help these students understand that everyone is unique and should be valued for their abilities. I found the descriptions of violence, and disease uneasy for younger audiences.
December 31, 2025
Thank you Brilliance Publishing, Brilliance Audio, and NetGalley for the advanced electronic audio review copy of this book. This is a wonderful story with great characters and interesting world building. I would love to spend some more time in this world so am hoping for a sequel. It was a quick and enjoyable read.
September 15, 2025
A Tale of Plagues and Perfumes is a well-written, compelling dystopian (almost sci-fi?) MG. It's fast-paced, fun, and full of high-stakes I can see a lot of middle grade readers loving. I can also definitely see this becoming a popular series!
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan for this ARC!
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan for this ARC!
November 28, 2025
unique story with some very interesting powers in the forms of enhanced senses and a plague that can only be stopped by aromas, I'm guessing because of the whole miasma debunked theory? it was a fun read. 5 stars. tysm for the arc
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