The author of the New York Times bestseller "The Widow Clicquot" returns with a  captivating history of the world’s most famous, seductive, and bestselling perfume. Chanel, a company famously protective of its brand, provided the author complete access to its archives.  Though it is a famously guarded corporate secret, experts estimate that a bottle of Chanel No. 5 is sold somewhere around the globe every 30 seconds, to the tune of $100 million a year.
With its rich golden hue, Art Deco-inspired bottle, and timeless, musky scent, Chanel No.5 is the bestselling perfume in the world.

"The Secret of Chanel No. 5" is Tilar J. Mazzeo’s fascinating search to uncover the full story of No. 5’s creation, iconic status, and extraordinary success.  Mazzeo goes back through time and deep into the life of Coco Chanel, its brilliant creator. She takes readers to the rose plantations and celebrated jasmine fields where the perfume begins, and on to the laboratories and boardrooms where scent and sex are forever intertwined.