Calling all lovers of literature! Book critics and bloggers are already buzzing about this summer's most anticipated reads. Whether you're jet-setting to a tropical oasis or staying in for an afternoon on the patio, a good book is an absolute must-have. Your imagination is ready to set sail for new worlds—and the right candle or scent can maximize the journey!
Summer is excellent for juicy romance novels, a poignant memoir, riveting thrillers, coming-of-age YA fiction, or long-revered lore. The right aroma is the perfect companion for any sun-soaked reading session. After all, scents have the power to evoke vivid memories and supercharge your mind with vibrant imagery you can nearly touch.
Bookmark this list and don't turn the page—these 10 candles and perfumes will turn your next marathon reading session into a truly relaxing escape!
1. LETTERS & INK Candle, by Leaf & Lore (Pennsylvania)
Maker: Megan Koren
The exhilaration of opening a new book can ignite your soul. With their Unwritten collection, Leaf & Lore jars the sweet sensation of exploring a new story. Storytellers and wordsmiths gravitate to LETTERS & INK, a complex candle that entwines the captivating notes of fresh ink with earthy-sweet cardamom and slow bursts of mandarin.
Light this candle to set the mood whenever you crack open a brand new book!
2. Velaris Soy Candle, by Wick & Whimsy (Pennsylvania)
Maker: Samantha Heller
The best beach reads plunge your imagination into a completely different world, inviting you to walk beside its characters and feel the sensations of exciting new settings. Velaris from Wick & Whimsy is your first-class ticket to the City of Starlight, a high fantasy polis made famous by a popular high-fantasy series. The romantic blend of jasmine and sea salt weaves a tapestry of bustling city streets and unforgettable views of the starry night sky.
Dive in—these candles are the perfect reading buddy for famous folklore and fandoms!
3. Seafarer Perfume Oil, by Black Baccara Perfume (New York)
Maker: Kalliope Amorphous
The lure of the open ocean is an intoxicating theme across the history of literature. Black Baccara Perfume takes readers to the high seas with scents that tell the tantalizing tales of fearless mariners. The aroma of a fresh ocean breeze crashes against sun-toasted seashells, entangling your imagination in the weathered oak of a seasoned ship.
4. Loki Candle, by Cornerfolds Candles (Florida)
Maker: Tracy R.
Named after the most cunning trickster in Norse mythology, Loki is the perfect companion for your next dive into folklore. Unlike its famous namesake, this candle's aroma won't sneak away: frost snakes around spearmint and vanilla for a refreshingly fragrant dance with the God of Mischief.
5. And Ampersand, by KYD Candle Co. (Wisconsin)
Maker: Ryan Campbell
Still haven't picked your summer vacation read? You're in luck—this candle from KYD Candle Co. is inspired by And Ampersand: Short Stories on Endings and Beginnings (of a Sort), written by founder Ryan himself! This perfect pairing brings together a collection of flash fiction with smooth scents of suede and smoky leather for a sensory-infused reading session you just can't miss.
Both the candle and book are five-star rated—pick up your copies today!
6. Flaming Pages Candle, by Misplaced Muse Creative (Mississippi)
Maker: Candice Mizell
Are you a fan of iconic sci-fi author Ray Bradbury? Light Flaming Pages from Misplaced Muse Creative for an immersive adventure into dystopia. Roasted nuts smolder over hints of vanilla musk, evoking the rising flames of a fierce bonfire.
Literature lovers can't get enough of the clever candles in this Book Nerd Collection!
7. Juliet Handmade Perfume, by Sweet Anthem Perfumes (Oregon)
Maker: Marisa Borrevik
Combining scents with stories, the perfumers at Sweet Anthem Perfumes compose artisan fragrances based on the legends and lore we all love. This star-crossed scent envelops you in balmy jasmine sambac flowers, with a sweet kiss of bright orange blossoms and enchanting spices.
Fall in love with this lit-inspired artisan perfume line!
8. Meg, Jo, Beth & Amy, by Rose & Adder (Michigan)
Maker: Kristen Hasty
Time to round up your favorite little women! Meg, Jo, Beth & Amy from Rose & Adder celebrates your favorite coming-of-age period drama. Pore through the pages for the umpteenth time, this time joined by heroic notes of crisp apple and sweet peach. The journey continues with orange marmalade mingling beside spicy cranberry for a gutsy pop of adventure.
With these candles, you'll enjoy your long-time favorite reads in a brand new way!
9. Underworld, by Old Soul Artisan (New Jersey)
Maker: Harmony Todd
Epic. Dangerous. The underworld serves as a thrilling setting for stories from ancient cultures and chart-topping fiction alike. For the Egyptians, the underworld did not mark the end, but was the birthplace of a new beginning. With their Underworld candle, the chandlers at Old Soul Artisan dare readers to take the journey downward. Musky aromas of sandalwood dance with jasmine and juicy citrus for a fragrance fit for a pharaoh.
Embark on the literary expedition of a lifetime!
10. Go Away: I'm Reading Scented Candle, by Lavish & Lit Candle Company (Pennsylvania)
Maker: Tyneisha Florence
When it's time to dive into a good read, Lavish & Lit knows that there's no time for distractions! This candle lets noisy kiddos and bearers of honey-do lists know the rules: when a book is open, it's quiet time! Pick from fifteen different scents, including warm Banana Nut Bread, luscious Georgia Peach, or a morning kick of Espresso.
Crack open a good book, light this candle, and snag that much-needed “me-time!”
Questions for discussion and sharing
What are your favorite genres to soak up in the summertime? What candles did you scoop up to supercharge your reading sessions? Let us know in the comments!
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