Book Review: ‘The Scratch and Sniff Chronicles’ by Hemangini Dutt Majumder

Book Title: The Scratch and Sniff Chronicles
Author: Hemangini Dutt Majumder
Publisher: Niyogi Books
Number of Pages: 332
ISBN: 978-8119626809
Date Published: Jun. 2, 2025
Price: INR 374

Book Review

Olympia Ghoshal Chatterjee, or Ollie, is not your usual detective. She has a sharp sense of smell that helps her uncover secrets and solve mysteries. When Ollie, her aunt Basanti (called Fishy), and her adopted sister Laura move into their old family home, ‘Neelbari’, after a long legal fight, they hope for peace. Instead, they find secrets, strange happenings, and even skeletons in unexpected places. Set in Chandannagar, “The Scratch and Sniff Chronicles” by Hemangini Dutt Majumder is a fun mix of mystery, humour, and family drama, with a strong Bengali flavor.

The story shines through its quirky characters — like Rupa who makes jam, the smooth-talking priest Shankar, and the teacher Danish Mirza who always smells of mint. Ollie’s powerful sense of smell helps her understand not just the mystery but also the hidden emotions of those around her. The first half of the book moves a bit slowly as the world of Neelbari is built, but the second half picks up speed and keeps the reader hooked. With funny moments, spooky twists, and a warm heart, the book is both entertaining and thoughtful.

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Beneath the mystery, the story celebrates strong women. The female characters — brave, messy, and real — take charge of their lives, no matter the odds. The mix of mystery, emotion, and Bengali culture makes this book stand out. Despite a few slow parts, “The Scratch and Sniff Chronicles” is a delightful and original read — a story full of smells, secrets, and surprises.

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