Buzz
While some enjoy browsing through bookstore shelves, others are captivated by the cozy ambiance these literary havens offer. A key part of that comforting vibe is the unique aroma of books. But what if you could take it a step further and experience scents directly inspired by your favorite stories? Worry not. Settle in, unwind, open your beloved book, and enjoy these 11 candles designed for book enthusiasts everywhere.
1. HARRY POTTER
Spireside
If teleporting from your couch to the Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade for a sip of butterbeer isn’t an option, why not enjoy the next best thing—a candle that captures the wizard’s favorite drink? Named “Wizard’s Pub,” this candle blends the rich, nutty aroma of spiced pralines, a scent so enchanting even Voldemort might be tempted to indulge.
Spireside Candles, $18
2. SHERLOCK HOLMES
From the Page/Etsy
Budding detectives can channel their inner Sherlock Holmes with this candle inspired by the legendary resident of 221B Baker Street. Infused with the cozy notes of black currant tea and leather, it’s a scent that feels as classic as Holmes himself. While a hint of pipe tobacco would have been the perfect touch, this fragrance is still enough to inspire you to don your deerstalker hat and dive into the aromatic intrigue.
From the Page, $12
3.
WALDEN
Hearth and Hammer/Etsy
In his timeless work Walden, Henry David Thoreau famously expressed, “I find it healthy to spend most of my time alone. Being in company, even with the finest people, quickly becomes tiresome and distracting. I cherish solitude; I’ve never found a companion as comforting as being alone.” If you’re inspired to retreat into nature like Thoreau but want your cozy cabin to smell delightful, this Walden-inspired candle is the perfect addition to your rustic escape.
Hearth and Hammer, $18
4. CHARLES DICKENS
Paddywax
Charles Dickens, the literary voice of foggy London’s shadowy streets, brought us classics like
Paddywax, $21
5.
THE HITCHHIKER’S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY
Frostbeard/Etsy
Don’t panic! While this candle inspired by Douglas Adams’s iconic sci-fi satire doesn’t come with a towel, it captures the essence of the most essential item for any galactic traveler. Order 42 of these, and you’ll be fully prepared for a delightfully aromatic adventure across the cosmos.
Frostbeard, $18
6.
THE GREAT GATSBY
Hearth and Hammer/Etsy
Don’t let the hollow allure of the 1922 American Dream discourage you. Fuel your aspirations with this candle, infused with vanilla and musk, designed to capture the essence of the green light at the end of Daisy Buchanan’s dock in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. Its enchanting fragrance is perfect for East Egg, West Egg, or any lavish estate in between.
Hearth and Hammer, $18
7. EDGAR ALLAN POE
Paddywax
As the raven might say, “Nevermore. And also, this candle smells incredible.” Edgar Allan Poe, the master of dark tales like "The Fall of the House of Usher" and "The Tell-Tale Heart," is celebrated by lovers of gothic fiction, and this candle embodies his eerie spirit with notes of cardamom, sandalwood, and absinthe. Much like Poe’s haunting stories and his fondness for drink, this fragrance is utterly captivating.
Paddywax, $21
8. THE HOBBIT / THE LORD OF THE RINGS
Bubble and Geek
One candle may rule them all, but the world of J.R.R. Tolkien offers a wealth of delightful options to choose from!
For those who prefer the tranquility of Hobbiton, the Hobbit Garden candle, with its refreshing mint and oak moss scent, will transport you straight to a cozy Hobbit hole. Alternatively, if you’re ready for an adventure with a wizard like Gandalf, the Pipe-Weed candle’s smoky tobacco aroma might just inspire you to boldly march into Mordor.
Bubble and Geek, $16
9.
A GAME OF THRONES
Lumos Candles/Etsy
No wildfire is needed to light up this collection of nine candles, each inspired by the great houses of Westeros from George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series. Simply strike a match. Each scent suits a different season: House Targaryen’s smoky red clove is perfect for scorching summer days; House Tyrell’s floral fragrance will soothe you through spring, even amidst Lannister treachery; House Greyjoy’s blend of ocean and sandalwood will carry you through gloomy autumn; and as winter approaches, House Stark’s crisp fir aroma will keep you warm.
Lumos Candles, $108
10.
THE HUNGER GAMES
From the Page/Etsy
While frosting cakes might not seem like a survival skill in a dystopian death match, Peeta Mellark would beg to differ. This whimsical French vanilla buttercream candle will help you overlook the darker moments of The Hunger Games, such as the tragic losses and Caesar Flickerman’s flamboyant hairstyle.
From the Page, $12
Herbs of Grace/Etsy
While we can’t promise this candle will keep you youthful or beautiful, its enchanting aroma is undeniable. With notes of bergamot, cedarwood, and bay leaf, it evokes the decadent charm of a Victorian parlor, perfect for indulging in some Oscar Wilde-inspired hedonism.
Herbs of Grace, $15
