A wicked good read The Vanishing Witch is one book to eagerly reach for if you are looking for a wicked good read where ancient warnings and an always popular setting are stirred into a fine story that keeps you guessing at the supernormal or the rationally explained. At the boiling centre, we are given a ghost's narration that twists around additional voices and views ranging from the crafty to the simply gullible with always greed and malice eating away at the heart of all reason and purity. But who should you watch and is telling the truth or is even entirely blameless when a series of oddly timed murders strikes and throws different ages, stations of life and paranoia into the already simmering pot of jealousy, superstitions and conviction? Well that all my darlings are something you are responsible to unearth but you may not like where this dark tale leads you nor be able to turn away from The Vanishing Witch in the end. -purchased and read on kindle -EGP/November 2017 Full Bottles and one sample *soon to be a full bottle purchase December 2017 La Belle Époque Les Courtisanes The Raven Combined Thoughts: These three gems all share something exceptional about them: they are all transporting and are mettle in a bottle (or vial) and can unlock your secret self (or reveal the unknown). Each also tells their own unique story to the wearer with a diversity of: warmth, coolness, floral, spice and amber. They might not be for everyone but I invite anyone to just see where these three beauties will lead you in memory, emotion, style and exploration into unfamiliar history (or legend). You may be surprised by the end of the day (or night) what you learn. One scent at a time: -This perfume I wish to formally introduce to the modern audience is one I can't stop reaching for (the full-size bottle is peacefully aging at the moment but the sample only has a few drops left) as it is floral sophistication at its finest. This is no childhood romp in the garden but a perfect scent passage to another time and place. One of my absolute favourites that is poise, romance and refinement gorgeously captured in a bottle (you can't help but hold your head high when you walk into a room with this powdery vision because ladies and gentlemen this is La Belle Époque by Alkemia Perfumes). Brava Alkemia! La Belle Époque: (Listed Notes: Jasmine Sambac, Tuberose, Iris, Rose, and Lily of the Valley blended with Plum, Apricot, Tahitian Vanilla, Blonde Amber, Bitter Almond, Oakmoss and Powdery Musk) What I'm hoping for: To experience a glimmer of the Gilded Age which this fragrance is said to be an ode to. I love how Alkemia describes perfumes in their catalogue, you're sure to find a time, a place or emotion that you want desperately to visit or become a part of your personal style. In the vial/bottle: FLORAL POWDER and RESIN that just harkens back to a splendid time of courtliness, swishing gowns, tipped hats and frivolous ventures. Applied: Class and distinction with the FLORAL, it is what you wished your skin smelled naturally like. Definitely a mature fragrance and is by no means a childhood romp in the garden, this is romantic and earthy with the RESIN which my skin seems to respond positively to. I'm faintly getting a fruit (APRICOT is my guess as it seems to really amp on my skin). I'm still "training my nose" but I'm getting a hint of VANILLA as well. This is not your everyday scent and it demands your best attire and adornments but also rewards you with confidence that lasts long after that final wisp of something special leaves you the next day. Words that come to mind: THE Mrs Astor's ball, classic romantic elegance, extravagant powdery floral, First Four Hundred, Ormolu One scent at a time: -This next fragrance loves to accompany me to work and is beautiful confidence in a bottle. Like all my favourites it does require some patient aging but this particular perfume has garnered the most compliments out of any in my oil collection and I must say it is well worth the wait to reveal something beyond irresistible and memorable. Too good to not share and deserves a special TREASURED/FEATURED label. Brava Alkemia! Les Courtisanes (Listed Notes: Pear, Peach Blossom, Apricot, Lychees, Nutmeg, White Amber, White Florals, and sweet Woods.) What I was hoping for and what called to me: This was another curious wandering around Alkemia's shelves of popular recommendations. My chemistry seems to warm toward gourmands so this also may work in my favor plus because of Alkemia I no longer fear amber and can put those horrible memories of sharp headaches from certain commercial spray nightmares behind me forever (never will I step foot in an over-marketed bath and scent store again). I'm ready to try anything but I must say I'm really excited about the nutmeg note listed (I can never have too many of those in my autumn cache.) In the vial/bottle: PEAR, AMBER, SWEETNESS but with WARMTH and a hit of SPICE- oh this is exquisite. There is a surprising empowering quality to it with a secret behind closed doors essence but something tells me it will need some aging which is okay I can wait (I think...well maybe after a couple more sniffs). Applied: *a few weeks later I took it out to the public and to one important work-related travel venture: This is a perfect scent for the end of summer into the colder snap of fall, I love this. The fruit pairs splendidly with the amber and I get that flourish of nutmeg that makes this a great autumn fragrance (summer warmth meets approaching golden harvest). I also get a warm vanilla note but it is not listed among the ones on the page (maybe oleander? I know I can smell vanilla and I was even asked one night if I had vanilla on.) This perfume pulses warmth on me as well and it smells so expensive but wears well with anything. A sure full bottle purchase and future article (more people need to try this). Words that come to mind: confidence in a bottle, keyhole secrets, empowering warmth, late summer into winter One scent at a time: -Last but certainly not least is one fragrance that is an entrancing beautifully wicked ode to everything black as black. It brings to mind lost traditions and that certain myths and legends could be true (albeit only slightly exaggerated to bring you closer to the fire and a travelling bard). The collection of spice, floral, leather and ink also skips into the mists of time and could be the haunting scent associated with favoured ghost stories and the ominous feeling of waiting nightly shadows and the unknown. If there ever was a perfect perfume for a real or imagined villainess this would be it. Too good to not share and deserves a special TREASURED/FEATURED label. Brava Alkemia! The Raven (Listed Notes: Ebony Heartwood, Black Amber, Piper Nigrum, Blackseed (habbatul barakah), Black Bengal Cardamon, Black Ink, Nigella (Black Coriander), Black Iris, Violet Leaves, and Leather (*animal-friendly)) What I was hoping for and what called to me: After losing all reason with Book of Shadows and All Hallow's Eve (October 2017), I found I really enjoy certain notes (or finally found perfumes that work with the particular notes that never agreed with me) and I went searching for something possibly similar in Alkemia's extensive library. The peppercorn, ink and various notes in The Raven seemed worth a try and suitable for this time of year. In the vial/bottle: I have no idea what I'm smelling but I love it! It's not one note but a collage of murkiness that conjures visions of dark haunted forests and forgotten practices. It's somehow GREEN-BLACK, I don't know how to explain it. Alkemia what majick have you unleashed? Applied: This is it, this is the scent I have been waiting for! It's the essence of every real and imagined villainess in history and legends. It's beauty, cunning, power and dangerous seduction. Oddly I still can't identify one note but I really get that GREEN-BLACK impression again with images of legendary Avalon then shifts to a mist swirled surrounded tower and then a lone piano playing but no one is in the room. This perfume certainly contains a labyrinth of secrets, stories and will definitely be a full bottle purchase. Words that come to mind: Midnight Vamp, late summer to spring, Villainess, black swan, she-wolf, Dark Queen alkemia.etsy.com Late at night, your mind tends to wander and past midnight talks with your coworkers can be a fascinating insight into your fellow man and your own loosely veiled ambitions and thoughts. I've listened to quite a few interesting stories and probably bored to tears my colleagues with my own incessant ramblings on different trivia, book recommendations and of course my er... obsession? fantasy? determined goal? What have you, of being the first in line if they ever have time travel possible in our lifetime. Crazy yes but it helps pass the enclosing darkness and time to think what it would be like to go back to simpler eras and I always come back to the late Victorian era to early 20th century as my choices of escape. I can't explain exactly what is so drawing or absolutely captivating about those time periods (perhaps a past life?), maybe it's the forgotten customs, values, work ethics or common courtesies (honestly doesn't a gentleman bother to open a door or pull a chair out for lady anymore?). Send me back to those good old days please because I'm ready and I have the jewellery in my antique portmanteau packed just waiting for that ticket. I know I'm not alone judging by the number of shops and specialty fashions that cater to those and alter reality for a few flashing seconds as you open a presented box or view a new listing that harkens back to bygone eras of sophistication and forgotten gentility. You can't escape or deny it as they welcome you to think about another place and time and I found all that to be true with Titanic Temptations (titanictempations.etsy.com). Being one of the introductory shops (along with Boheme Bijou (bohemebijou.etsy.com) that I purchased from when I joined ETSY and happily fallen into a new way to shop (Goodbye Amazon) for pieces of inspiration and scents of the past. Here are my first earrings from this lovely shop: As always the picture doesn't do these ear drops justice, they have facets and crackles in the stone that when you hold to the light they just glow with a real ruby's intensity. They are extremely well made and are sure to give me years of enjoyable wear. I also given a generous coupon with my first order and can't wait to shop at Titanic Temptations again. This storefront is something to see as the jewelry artist takes inspiration for her designs from the Victorian, Edwardian eras and even plays with the Steampunk theme creating one of a kind treasures which call to anyone who appreciates sparkly masterpieces that you will find a place in your wardrobe for or simply demand you buy something worthy (I've already purchased numerous blouses to go with my earrings) and it's hard to resist when you see that next twinkle of color or style you know needs to be with you. I know I couldn't resist because here was my next purchase: Admittedly I'm usually not a huge fan of the color orange but something special caught my attention with these baubles and I revisited the page for days. So glad I finally purchased these as they hold all the vibrant shades of autumn and have the swirled caps that bring the Victorian elegance that I love to find in unexpected places. They are also made of carnelian and jade both ancient special property stones said to bring good luck, happiness and confidence to the wearer (sounds good to me). I better be careful though if this shop could get me to like orange there's no telling what I may buy next (be afraid pocketbook and get ready for November 24th). Full Bottles: Smoke & Mirrors Book of Shadows All Hallow's Eve (October 2017) One scent at a time: -Like a classic strand of pearls, Smoke & Mirrors compliments all it touches with coolness to the skin that then warms to become an embodiment of your personal style and is a reminder of days gone by. It is a phenomenal fragrance that is beautifully simple but powerfully evoking and comforting that can be worn alone but blends with and adds some mystique or delicious depth to practically any perfume. I'm smitten and this is a staple scent I don't ever want to run out of. Too good to not share and deserves a special TREASURED/FEATURED label. Brava Alkemia! Smoke & Mirrors (Listed Notes: Woodsmoke and Vanilla) What I was hoping for: Certain scents allow me to go to a happy memory and woodsmoke is one aroma that takes me to childhood camping trips, special cookouts and late night talks beside the fireside. It may not sound like much but I just want a real woodsmoke scent with rustling leaves and bright moonlight coming to mind as soon as I get a familiar wisp. In the bottle: Absolute bliss! Better than I expected as this takes me to late summer to fall country cookouts with hot savoury food, music, dancing by the firelight and losing yourself in staring at the night skies. The WOODSMOKE is dead on. Simple but beautiful. Applied: I get that glorious woodsmoke as the front welcoming note and that's all I need but I do faintly get a fleeting whisper of vanilla that adds a sweetness to this peaceful blend. I read that this perfume is meant to layer with others and I can't wait to see what perfumes perform well together with this wonder. Words that come to mind: smoky bliss, tranquil starry nights, years of wonder, classic staple Curious Discoveries (what perfumes performs well with another): Pumpkin Strumpet and Smoke & Mirrors (add a little mystery to your spicy pumpkin) Honeycakes for Harvest Moon and Smoke & Mirrors (gourmand meets smokey depth) Au Lait and Smoke & Mirrors (really captures home baked goodness) Bonefire Toffees and Woodsmoked Oud and Smoke & Mirrors (boosts that hidden wisp of smoke) Cidre D' Automne and Smoke & Mirrors (creates an apple orchard bonfire at dusk) Gaea and Smoke & Mirrors (spring meets the best scent of autumn, creates verdant with memories of wind and the night) Black Magic Woman and Smoke & Mirrors (plum, smoke and roses- entrancing in the best way) Trick or Treat and Smoke & Mirrors (smokey orange licorice- yum!) Patchouli Cacao and Smoke & Mirrors (creates a baking gourmand fragrance- smoke, caramel, chocolate and earth- amazing!) Book of Shadows and Smoke & Mirrors (a candlelit room filled with escapes to other times and worlds and a mysterious dark stranger waiting in the shadows) The Raven and Smoke & Mirrors (together its black as black that transports you to an ancient empowering ceremony deep in the forest) -This next perfume I would like to introduce is one I love to wear when the evening clouds begin to bank and I can feel a snap of cold in the wind with the encroaching night. It's utterly transporting to your most ultimate room of desires filled with mystery, adventure and is a strangely beautiful ode to our swoon-worthy affairs with others' stories. Like your favourite type of novel, you won't be able to put it down. Too good not to share and deserves a special FEATURED/TREASURED label. Brava Alkemia! Book of Shadows- (Listed Notes: Parchment Paper, Antique ink, Leather bindings (*animal-friendly), and Rare Incenses) What I was hoping for and what called to me: I have been looking everywhere for a convincing "old book smell" and when I saw the late season (Autumn/Halloween collection) was released I knew I had to try this. Alkemia has already captured my childhood (and admittedly a few of my secret desires) in different surprising bottles so let's see if they can give me a treat and not a trick. In the vial/bottle: Fellow written/printed word fanciers (okay book lovers aka: we proud novel sniffers) rejoice and get a bottle of Book of Shadows now because this is our beautifully strange sanctuary that we have been waiting for! Absolutely as promised, it magnificent. It's like turning an aged book and fanning the pages as fast as you can. It's crumbly, it's dusty and loved! Applied: This has to be the most complex perfume that has joined my collection. I get every note but it transforms and shifts creating images of different types of genres of literature. There's bitter almond from your classic murder mystery (how about some cyanide with your tea?), violets from a tragic gothic romance, some type of sweet fruit (grape?) from your cookbook shelf and so many other unfamiliar notes that I have yet to explore in the shadows. Interestingly, the leather is pronounced on me and this is one of the strongest throwing fragrances I have, it loves to twirl and snag at other bottles so I will have to remember that or I will have quiet florals with leather (interesting concept...but not at this time). A tiny dab is all I need. Words that come to mind: Pagemistress, dark library in a bottle, grimoire of strange beauty -All Hallow's Eve (October 2017) is everything I love in a bottle: a dark luring promise, wisps of mystery and a release of images that surprise and make me want more. This may be my first bottle of the hugely popular recipe to capture the season and nostalgia but it certainly will not be my last. Too good not to share and deserves a special FEATURED/TREASURED label. Brava Alkemia! All Hallow's Eve (October 2017) (Listed Notes: Bourbon Vanilla, Tonka Bean, Cardamon Pods, Star Anise, Candied Fennel Seeds, Roasted Marshmallows, and Smoked Amber) What I was hoping for and what called to me: More and more I am falling deeply into the addictive properties of perfume oils (especially from Alkemia) and I think I lost all reason when I saw the late season (Autumn/Halloween) collection because before I knew it I was almost breaking my mouse hitting BUY IT NOW and a few days later running to the mailbox and ripping open my large package with childlike excitement (seriously Alkemia, you have me acting like a naughty spoiled child when I know I'm getting an order from you. Thank you for that.) This particular perfume was a "never tried before" purchase that called to me in all the right ways: roasted marshmallow, smoked amber, vanilla and my weakness- star anise). How could I resist? In the bottle/Applied: I'm still learning how to properly apply perfume oils and without a dropper or rollerball (too late did I see they were available all along, I just hit the BUY IT NOW without reading that option on the page) getting the right amount out of the bottle is not easy (I think I may have spilled a little too much on my wrist and tried rubbing the excess in my hair). Ah but as the old saying goes "some mistakes are worth making" because wow this is an ancient incantation in a bottle that might be innocent playful seasonal scent entertainment on someone else but on me this another suggestively wicked medley (that star anise and woodsmoke are my ultimate weaknesses) and I'm pretty sure if you've fallen already for Caveau Des Innocents you will swoon over All Hallow's Eve (October 2017). If the run soaked pears and deepening properties of coffee in Caveau Des Innocents didn't work the smokey and sweet qualities of All Hallow's Eve (October 2017) may be more for you. On me there is an unabashed flexing display of crushed cardamon, a sticky touch of smoked melted marshmallow and a teasing kiss of spice to keep me coming back and believe me I will be back next year for the next batch of this devious mix and purchasing another bottle of this seasonal treat very soon (ultime version with a rollerball). Words that come to mind: phantasmagorical, rites of the ancients, smokey spiced visit of All Hallow's Eves past, mischievous winds alkemia.etsy.com Full Bottles: Alkemia Perfume Oil Fixative - Increases Perfume Longevity Bonfire Toffees & Woodsmoked Oud Perfume Oil Samples: Haunted & Bewitched Midnight Garden As Dark Things Are Meant to be Loved Le Chant des Sirènes Invitation to the Moon Antares Absinthe And Laudanum in the Afternoon Stag Moon Ýdalir *The Raven Black Magic Woman Carmen -7- Combined Thoughts: Curious wanderings away from my usual "down to earth" and "special gourmand lists" of fragrances that I have been meaning to decipher if I favor or not. One scent at a time: Alkemia Perfume Oil Fixative - Increases Perfume Longevity oil fixative What I was hoping for and what called to me: Having acquired quite the collection of scents and still learning what notes will be faithful to my expectations and skin, there are always those fragrances that have turned my head but refuse to stay the night. Those thankfully few perfumes need a little encouragement or they are doomed to be cast into the room oil warmer never to accompany me to outside world. I'm hoping this perfume oil fixative is the key I need. In the bottle: MINT and a slight POWDERY VANILLA. This alone I would wear out plus the gold cap on the bottle is my preferred presentation (it adds class and distinction- I wonder if I could get those every time or it is just seasonal packaging?). Applied: The mint greets my nose first with promises "this will work", the vanilla also amps which adds to the cooling essence of this fixative. Letting it dry completely before even attempting to place those finicky perfumes on (reading it says you can apply after a minute but being cautious I let it dry for 5 minutes). The mint, vanilla and still noticeable powder are hopefully locked in my skin ready to work their majick. *The important three perfumes that I retried: Pumpkin Strumpet, Honeycakes for Harvest Moon and Patchouli Cacao Final Impression: Out of the three Patchouli Cacao worked the best with the fixative followed by Honeycakes for Harvest Moon and my spicy trickster Pumpkin Strumpet. The perfumes DID last longer and the opening notes stayed true, they also threw all the exhibited notes into the night but something went a tad strange with Pumpkin Strumpet (BUT that may have had to do with having worn just one tiny drop left in the sample vial and the balance might have been thrown off?). Maybe pumpkin notes are not meant to be on me but overall the fixative is a must and I've already placed this item in my "repurchase basket" when I run out or just to have the cooling mint-vanilla scent. Highly recommended. UPDATE: I contacted the amazing creator about Pumpkin Strumpet to get the best out of this fragrance and she made some excellent suggestions (trying wearing this scent in my hair and for a punch of additional spice purchasing or brewing up some cinnamon and clove oil FOR MY ROOM OIL WARMER ONLY/ NOT TO BE WORN) that has me beaming and finally purchasing this popular perfume (Thank you, Sharra!) Bonfire Toffees & Woodsmoked Oud (Listed Notes: Golden Treacle, Toffees, and Bonfire-cured Oud Wood) What I was hoping for and what called to me: I admit I have been coveting this sweet and smokey fragrance ever since I joined ETSY in May and I missed my chance to own this earlier when the huge sale happened in July (note to self: MARK CALENDAR FOR NEXT YEAR!). I almost broke my mouse button when I saw this perfume back for the seasonal collection and hit BUY IT NOW so this was my first "no sampling before hand" purchase. In the bottle: So here it is and even before I open the cap I can smell SWEETNESS and WARMTH. It has a medicinal quality I wasn't expecting but that may work in my favor as I usually like that kind of sharpness. Applied & Curious Findings: *this one even though highly anticipated on may need some more aging, it is bold and masculine on my skin (not sure if that is the oud?) After letting this one age a couple weeks and experimenting with different combinations I found my preferred layering: BONFIRE TOFFEES & WOODSMOKED OUD & CIDRE D' AUTOMNE. The creamy apple (it morphs from cider to buttery apple pie on me) and slight spices pairs remarkably well with the warmth and sharp sweetness of the Bonfire Toffees & Woodsmoked Oud. It's like a smokey candied (toffee) apple but the blending lends more to vintage version of the popular recipe. The masculine quality of the Bonfire Toffees & Woodsmoked Oud is perfectly tempered with the welcoming mother nature harvest aspect of the Cidre D' Automne and my nose (and head) appreciate it. (**please remember everyone's skin chemistry is different and what my chemistry does with one note may not happen on someone else. That's the unique beauty of perfume oils, they react with everyone differently- please don't hesitate to try a sample of something if it interests you). Haunted & Bewitched (Listed Notes: Egyptian White Amber, Star Jasmine, Ambrette Seed, Rosewater Turkish Delight, Pink Pepper, Madagascar Vanilla, Bourbon Caramels, Aged Patchouli infused with botanical pheromones) What I'm hoping for and what called to me: After seeing the seasonal collection and falling under the spell of BOOK OF SHADOWS (feature post coming soon) and NEPHILIM I wanted to try this floral ode to ancient autumnal changes and reflection. I'm still warming up to jasmine and amber but if thrown with the right notes I know I will be demanding a full bottle and there is my old comforting companion patchouli to look forward to plus botanical pheromones intrigue me all the more to sample this. In the vial: AMBER, SWEETNESS and FLORAL. Completely not what I was expecting, it's pretty not gloomy and debauched. It does have a noticeable sharp note if I smell it too fast but if I take my time it does have a promising creaminess. It almost reminds me of Lettre d'Amour. Applied: Thankfully no soap smacks me in my nose on first application (I was concerned that would happen with the jasmine which tends to go overly soapy at times on me). I get the floral but the caramel and amber rein in the florals and the longer it sits on my skin that buttery morphing trick my chemistry likes to play elevates this sample to a possible full bottle purchase when the generous vial runs out. It's not your typical fall fragrance and in all likelihood, I would wear this toward the end of summer. I do wish though the pink pepper and patchouli would appear, both are sadly absent and my nose misses those notes. That aside, oddly enough I noticed certain persons are more pleasant and friendly around me when I wear this perfume (a little goes a long way on me). Perhaps I should read more about pheromones and click the buy it now button for C24 and then later P28 (should make an entertaining weekend to see the effects, if anything it would be an interesting future article(s)) from Alkemia's listing. Words that come to mind: late summer, suggestive floral majick, ancient delicacy, botanic delight Midnight Garden (Listed Notes: Tuberose, Lily, Honeysuckle, Gardenia and Moonflower) What I'm hoping for: This perfume was listed along side my perfect scent passage to another time known simply as La Belle Époque, I'm still discovering what fragrance genres or notes I prefer (or work with my chemistry) and I'm hoping this is another transporting journey to ornate gentility. In the vial: HONEYSUCKLE and GREENNESS but there is also an unexpected overly concentrated background medley that is giving me a pinching headache. I don't think this one is going to work. Applied: *I had every intention to continue this review but I'm sorry this one is too overpowering (even with a tiny dab) and this turned to sickly scented hairspray on me. Unfortunately, this perfume will be joining the (thankfully) small collection of discarded curious scent explorations. **please remember everyone's skin chemistry is different and what my chemistry does with one note may not happen to someone else (a friend tried this and she loved it). That's the unique beauty of perfume oils, they react with everyone differently- please don't hesitate to try a sample of something if it interests you). As Dark Things Are Meant to be Loved (Listed Notes: Lapsang Souchong Tea, Russian Leather (*animal friendly), Aloeswood, Smoked Black Amber, Aged Dark Patchouli, Tonka, Amazonian Breuzinho, Moroccan Bhakoor, Labdanum, Temple Incense, Caramelized Opium, Black Coffee, Black Coconut, and Tabac Leaf.) What I'm hoping for and what called to me: I like millions of others grabbed creative eye protection and beheld the cosmic sensation that was the August 2017 Solar Eclipse and since this fragrance is a special edition version (said blended in the darkness of the moon and sun/also said to bring good luck) of the hugely popular perfume, I wanted to try this (fingers crossed for finding the dark depths of the unfamiliar). I admit I had to research practically all the unfamiliar notes but that makes me all the more excited to sample this perfume. In the vial: COCONUT and a VANILLA-LIKE creaminess with a blurring of LEATHER, completely unexpected. It's very gourmand but hopefully when applied more notes appear as I've never developed an appreciation for solely coconut concoctions. Applied: Add coconut to another note my chemistry unexpectedly amps as this is turning to high-end suntanning lotion on me. I was hoping with the extensive list of different scents something else would appear but alas, it is coconut with hints of vanilla and caramel. I can see why this is so popular though, as there are so many people who love the sunny beach and with the creaminess; this fragrance mixture is a prime choice for those who love destination scents and reminders of exotic desserts. As it sits longer, it's not that bad (admittedly one of the first coconut infused perfumes I can tolerate in fact). It's more summer or warm weather like than I was hoping (I do appreciate the vanilla and caramel both push more forward as it dries though replacing a strictly lotion aroma but it's just not what I was anticipating). I don't think I will be purchasing a full bottle BUT I do know someone who would love this. Words that come to mind: destination-themed scent locket, Summer, luscious beach cocktail melting in your hand Le Chant des Sirènes (Listed Notes: Beachgrass, Oceanic Ozone, White Musk, Rock Roses, White Patchouli, Sea Salt, and Magnolia Blossoms) What I was hoping for and what called to me: I didn't realise that I was caught into a small pattern with choosing seaside scents until my carefully prepared package from Alkemia arrived, I find that funny because believe it not: I've never been to a beach and all I know about the oceans are from books, movies and songs (yes I need to get out more). In any case, this perfume called to me specifically because of the notes (rose and patchouli) with the clever name (and displayed poem), this is a fragrance that is labeled to be discontinued and because I never know when I might find something I love when exploring in Alkemia's library of fragrances. This will be my first "aquatic" perfume to sample. In the vial: ROSE, MUSK, WATER and almost something like HONEYSUCKLE (but reading that must be the MAGNOLIA). It's also oddly "bubbly" in a way not soapy mind you but overall lovely. This perfume is so aptly named. Applied: This is such a curious fragrance, right away I get the salt, rose and my favorite patchouli that adds an earthiness to the water aspect and beckons me to stay. It almost has a riche vintage quality also and for some reason I keep envisioning a lone mermaid staring somewhat sadly toward shore where a recently renovated Gilded Age mansion stands while a record of violin music is playing against the sound of the waves. Wow, Alkemia you got my imagination whirling again (you are truly rulers of allowing your blended notes tell their own unique commanding stories). This is definitely a pure summer fragrance and a possible full bottle purchase (as a little goes a long way on me). Words that come to mind: Oceanic Romance, salty floral, rose bubbles, vintage melody Invitation to the Moon (Listed Notes: Lemon, Neroli, and Pear Blossoms, White Tree Peony, Night Blooming Water Lilies, Riceflower, Jasmine Sambac, Night Gladiolus, Flowering Coriander, Grey Amber, and White Patchouli) What I was hoping for and what called to me: Another surprising theme with this package were bold and quiet floral fragrances to be found within and this perfume was actually a generous bonus sample Alkemia added with one order. Reading the notes, this one sounds like something I may like BUT I have learned from my experience with Jasmine Sambac before and decided to allow this one to age after briefly sniffing it when it arrived (the more that note ages the more gorgeously powdery it gets on me when applied). In the vial: *a few weeks later: CITRUS and collage of FLORAL with POWDER just peeking out from the background. It may need a little more time to age as there is a soapy aspect also still noticeable but I'm eager to try it on. Applied: Yes I think I couple months will do this one wonders as the citrus-like soap is very dominant on me but there is that powder I love promising to come out eventually. It would work for spring to summer so maybe I'll revisit this perfume again then. Antares (Listed Notes: Queen of the Night, Dried Wild Roses, Mandarin, Nicotania, Oakmosses, Cactus, Juniper, Acacia buds, Fir Resin, Clary Sage, Cedar Needles, Labdanum, Guaiac Wood, Germander, and White Patchouli lightly bathed in dewy Water Musk.) What I was hoping for and what called to me: When I made my huge All Hallow's Eve themed purchase I didn't know what other samples to try at that time (honestly I was just bouncing around anticipating the Late Fall collection joining my vanity) so I added a quick note to my order to "surprise me". This was a generous vial sent in reply to that innocent message. Reading the notes and inspiration of the perfume, this sounds like one of those good ol' "down to earth" scents I love to find. Hoping for something deep and night like. In the vial: Glorious GREENNESS and EARTH and WATER, it sort of reminds me of MOSS MAIDEN (and a little of GAEA) because as soon as I smell it I get summer and spring. Applied: This one definitely is similar to MOSS MAIDEN but if that one is the sun-dappled day version (with a breeze of lemon), ANTARES is the night version of summer fields and woods. This one also has a slight spice to it and as it dries I imagine cooling wet meadows with fireflies rising to meet the night sky above. There is a very calming effect with this perfume and this may be a full bottle purchase (I have so many on that growing list but it's worth it). Words that come to mind: evening picnic, greenness of night, dancing fireflies Absinthe And Laudanum in the Afternoon (Listed Notes: Galbanum, Laudanum Accord, Tonka Bean, Vetivert Root, Wormwood, Opium Poppy, Poet's Jasmine, and French Lavender) *Directly from Alkemia's page: *A Note from the Alchemistresses: This is a blend of legal fragrant essences. It is NOT a psychoactive drug. It will not get you 'high.' Like all perfume oils, it is designed for topical use. Do not eat, drink, or smoke this or any other perfume. Perfumes are for wearing. =) What I was hoping for and what called to me: Having read a far-reaching library of different titles centered in history, I am always confronted with the words "absinthe" and "laudanum" in my favorite types of stories (mystery and tragic romances) so this was a curious exploration in something I have been interested to learn about for a long time (in scent version that is). Hopefully, I am inspired and bit by la fée verte" (the green fairy) and laudanum. In the vial: LAVENDER, MINT and LICORICE (reading that is the WORMWOOD), it's a promising cocktail of lushly imagined delirium. Applied: This smells so expensive and reminds me of those little glass bottles on my Baba's vanity that she would only wear on very special occasions. Completely wasn't expecting this to smell so classic (I was thinking for some reason this would be more of a playful scent mix). As this dries I get more lavender, spiked mint then the powder comes out and this becomes something to talk about. It almost reminds me of Nephilim (if you haven't tried it please do). Words that come to mind: evening wear, misrule classic, addicting herbal Stag Moon (Listed Notes: Staghorn Fern, Rum Infused Hardwoods, Oak Moss, Autumn Musk, Deerhide (*animal-friendly only botanic synthesized), Woodsmoke) What I was hoping for and what called to me: Silly me I didn't realise this oil was geared toward the fellas until later. Oh well, the lure of woodsmoke and woods called to me (this sample will just have to be for entertainment purposes.) In the vial: Being completely honest, I smell PEANUT BRITTLE with a hint of WOODS. Really wasn't expecting that but maybe it will work and smell like sweet smoke on me. Applied: There is no sweetness to be found because when this hits the skin this is untamed masculinity but with a strand of sophistication. This oil definitely morphs and is full of surprises. I would imagine on a man this is both bold and strong. The more it dries and I walk around (mind you I only tried a tiny dab) I keep getting a distinct vintage Old Spice cologne aroma that transforms into the forest floor with musk and wow this is pretty seductive (ahem note to self: this will be a full bottle purchase someday). Words that come to mind: TWO WORDS: WARRIOR POET! Ýdalir (Listed Notes: Fossilized Amber, Oakmoss Absolute, Siberian Black Pine, Smoked Juniper Tar, Balsam Pine - 100% Natural) What I was hoping for and what called to me: This was another "surprise me" response from Alkemia (thank you so much Alkemia!) and I was very excited before I read the notes as I could clearly smell this in the package before even opening it. In the vial: This makes my mouth water as this is pure country cooking on the heathenpit (a huge enclosed steel smoker you burn wood directly under the meat), it's savory, smokey and oh so good! It's also an ancient inspiring scent and very comforting. Absolutely amazing. Applied: *as this is a 100% natural oil with tar it really never dries and I would advise those to NOT wear anything you value as this would stain anything it touches. It's so deep and warm with all the wood notes and smells exactly like autumn down in the hollow. Finally be careful when removing as this oil attaches to bare skin but with a little rubbing it comes right off. I think I will be using this in the scent locket versus on my skin. Words that come to mind: savory scent locket, November down in the hollow, ancient home reminders *The Raven (Listed Notes: Ebony Heartwood, Black Amber, Piper Nigrum, Blackseed (habbatul barakah), Black Bengal Cardamon, Black Ink, Nigella (Black Coriander), Black Iris, Violet Leaves, and Leather (*animal friendly)) *To be a full bottle purchase and will be a triple-feature article in the near future (An entrancing beautifully wicked ode to everything black as black) Black Magic Woman (Listed Notes: Devil's Foodcake accord, Dark Caramel, Blackberry Brandy, Black Plum Incense, Dark Amber, Labdanum and Black Rose) What I was hoping for and what called to me: This was one of my first curious wanderings around Alkemia's shelves of different types of notes and what drew me was the devil's foodcake with roses. I believe I was sent this at the beginning of summer and I was hoping this would get me in the creepily wonderful mood for the colder weather to come. In the vial: *when this first arrived the sickly sweet plum and amber was too much for me and I had the most horrible headache BUT something I could detect was waiting underneath and I knew I should hold on to this sample and try again later. UPDATE: Months later and I'm so glad I held onto this vial as this perfume is so complex and different. It does have a very boozy quality and I don't think I would wear this to work (well maybe in very small dabs here and there) but to only special nights out. Applied: There is an almost over-enveloping wash of boozy plum that is so sweet and powerful but it soon calms down (surprising no headaches this time around). The rose comes out with the amber and maybe a bit of caramel as well that turns buttery on me. I don't detect any chocolate or light resins but I still like this perfume and I think I will be wearing it out more than I thought (this may be one of those "if they ever plan on discontinuing this fragrance, I will be sure to purchase a full bottle before then" but I will use what is in the generous vial until that day). Words that come to mind: the importance of aging, boozy rose, sultry séance, late summer into winter Carmen -7- (Listed Notes: Spiced Pear, Lychees, French Pralines, Bourbon Vanilla, Almond Blossoms Gardenia, Star Jasmine, Magnolia and Amber.) What I was for and what called to me: This was another "surprise me" gift in scent form (you're the best Alkemia!) that arrived with another order (yes my pocketbook hates and fears me but it's so worth it). After a quick look at the notes I'm hoping this reminds me of Les Courtisanes (*can't wait to share my thoughts in a future triple-feature article about that gem). Perhaps Carmen -7- will be sweeter with the french pralines, looking forward to trying this one. In the vial: SPICED FRUIT and AMBER with a hint of FLORAL in the background. It smells similar to Les Courtisanes but there is something more "modern" or "trendy" about it (it also seems to be the summer version of the familiar) but just like Les Courtisanes it smells expensive as well. Applied: If I had to choose Les Courtisanes is my choice when it comes to these similar noted perfumes but I still like Carmen -7- as this is more floral and the pralines strike up lovely visions of creamy vanilla caramel desserts in a summer garden. It does seem it needs a touch more aging so I will try this again in summer and decide if it will be accompanying it's spiced sister on my vanity. Words that come to mind: summer demand, posh floral alkemia.etsy.com When I first beheld these stunners at Midnight Vision (midnightvision.etsy.com), James Horner's haunting masterpiece "Hymn To The Sea" was playing in my ear and I felt a distinct shiver as I sat in front of the screen. It's not every day I find a piece of ornamental art that has the combined arrangements of color and artistry that reminds me of a cinematic favorite (scoff if you will, Cameron pulled his many background details from Walter Lord's classic A Night To Remember and he even referenced current leading names on the marvel of engineering known as RMS Titanic to achieve applaudable accuracy). From the particular shimmering tones of blue that can only be found in the depths of the ocean to the familiar heart-like adornment (a hint of romance never hurts) and the extravagant floral motif that looked like it belonged on the sculpted wall moulding in the infamous dining room; I loved everything I saw and needed these earrings to grace my collection. Even from so far across the sea these jewels arrived in pristine condition but there was an understandable wait before that (it gave me ample time though to anticipate and browse further into this beautiful catalogue) and in the end they were worth every penny! I honestly can't stop staring at these earrings as they dance and flash in all different types of light with the most entrancing shades of blues and create a becoming silhouette between ear and neck (they are also very comfortable to wear). I will definitely shop at Midnight Vision again and recommend this shop to those searching for not only a special event accessory but a well deserved lavish gift that balances yesteryear with touches of romance.
midnightvision.etsy.com Having collected over the years a wide assortment of costume jewelry (mostly brand 1928 earrings and necklaces) nothing I have accumulated compares to the heirloom-like quality I have purchased from ETSY shops. The obvious inspirational flash and beautiful sparkles and glows are something that I'm thrilled to discover and hold up to the lamplights. It's hard to describe the feeling of elation and breathless wonder when I unwrap that perfect "something" and, so it goes with these next little treasures. Poring over my lists of "must haves" and "must seek next", I needed a blue set of earrings but not just any tone I wanted a royal saturated shade that you just don't see anymore. I was also just finishing up one or two titles on a personal favorite subject and decided an additional requirement was a certain inspired look when I found my earrings. It took some patience but after scouring through the search feature on ETSY (I wish the function was easier to use) I stumbled onto these gems and Wild Scarab Jewels (wildscarabjewels.etsy.com): (As always the pictures don't do these earrings justice, they have such captivating depth of color that accentuates the elaborate nature of these ear drops) It's easy to see the influence of Fabergé and I dare say these baubles have a museum-like quality about them that I will show off for years to come.)
Not only did I find the inspired look I have been hoping for but Wild Scarab Jewels has a little secret: the owner and jewelry artist is a published author who knows and appreciates the majesty of history and lost elegance of various bygone eras. It's always entertaining to see past the ink-smudged hands of writers into a rare glimpse of their own motivation or personal style and this shop offers all that and future temptations that I can't turn away from (especially the special limited edition Swarovski stones that you can't find anymore). Needless to say I will definitely be purchasing from Wild Scarab Jewels again and welcome anyone to have a look into this catalogue of finery (I don't think you will be disappointed). wildscarabjewels.etsy.com "The man who has no knowledge of the past has no wisdom." Mark Twain said it best when he stated "write what you know" and Mr Mortimer certainly knows his British History. Having a recognized scholar pen such a passionate tale that touches the heart and deftly projects the harrowing ever-changing atmospheres and views of the mid 14th - early 20th centuries onto the modern imagination is a treat indeed to find and The Outcasts of Time is sure to evoke and educate with every chapter as a lyrical narrator pulls us into his shifting world and allows glimpses into our own possible unknown futures. Although overall inspiring and deep becoming a novel well worth the time to sit down with and think on days after turning that final page, this novel does get a little bogged down in the later middle and one detailed tragic event may warrant a certain amount of confusion versus an already soggy tissue but the beginning passages and final revelations are fascinating especially for those of us who find a special interest in The Great Mortality. Within those lines, if the reader seeks additional trivia that seems bottomless ranging from articles of period clothing, proper addressing of last names to shapes of windows and beyond you found the right storyteller to follow and tale to lose yourself in. With thanks to NetGalley and Pegasus Books who sent me an advanced copy of The Outcasts of Time -EGP/October 2017 |
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28th of January 2023) NOTES/COMBINATIONS and Stones CURRENTLY ON THE HUNT FOR: Naughty Licorice/Star Anise Cardamom Cardamom Cake with Roses Smoky Honey & Leather Leather and Florals Pomegranate Colder Tuberose scents Smoked Florals with Cinnamon and Honey Graham Cracker and Incense Double strand of Rose Quartz or Moonstones or Black Tourmaline Chainmaille Jewellery Houses of Fragrance and Interest on the Horizon (shops that contain such temptations): LurkerAndStrange Good Spirit Wolf Rapt In Maille ToadStoolSoaps DSH Perfume Baphomet&Co Harvest Moon Haven Granny Hootenanny's Shop
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