Evenings with Eleve: A Book Lover’s Sanctuary for Intentional Relaxation

Because You Deserve More Than Just a Few Stolen Moments of Peace

After a long day of juggling responsibilities, making decisions, and showing up for everyone else, the thought of unwinding with a book sounds like a dream. But how often do you actually give yourself that time?

If you're anything like me, you tell yourself, "Just a few pages before bed.. I have GOT to see what happens next," only to crash before your eyes reach the second page. Or maybe reading is something you used to love, but life got in the way, and now you struggle to carve out moments for yourself at all.  This is the exact thing that happened to me.  As a child, I was always stuck in a book or hosting a read aloud with my stuffed animals.. but as life became more complex, my reading took a backseat, before totally disappearing. 

That’s exactly why I created Evenings with Eleve—a space where books and intentional relaxation come together to help you slow down, breathe deeply, and reclaim time for yourself in a way that truly restores your soul. The change in my overall mood, vibe, whatever you want to call it since I rediscovered this past love has been tremendous.  Those two things can't be just coincidence.

More Than Just a Book Blog—It’s a Lifestyle of Intentional Rest

This isn’t your typical book blog filled with generic reviews and endless TBR lists (though you’ll definitely find some must-read recommendations!). Instead, Evenings with Eleve is designed to help you create rituals around reading—turning it into an act of self-care rather than another item on your to-do list.

Here, you’ll find:

📖 Curated Book Lists – From modern romance to soul-stirring thrillers, I’ll help you find the perfect book to match your mood.

✨ Reading Rituals & Self-Care Tips – Because reading should feel like a luxurious escape, not just something squeezed into the day.

🕯 Book & Candle Pairings – Because setting the mood matters. Try lighting our Crackling Wood Wick Candle in Mango Milk—its warm, soothing aroma makes every reading session feel indulgent.

📚 Bookish Lifestyle & Aesthetic Ideas – Think reading nooks, shelf styling, and all the cozy vibes you need to make books a central part of your sanctuary.

This blog is for the women who crave quiet moments but need a little nudge to actually take them. It’s for the book lovers who want to romanticize their evenings, immerse themselves in stories, and create a life that feels peaceful—even in the middle of a busy season.

Why Books? Because They’re More Than Just Stories—They’re a Form of Self-Care

When was the last time you let yourself get lost in a book without guilt?

In a world that glorifies 'hustle culture', reading can feel like an indulgence—but it’s actually a deeply restorative practice. Studies show that just six minutes of reading can reduce stress by 68%. Imagine what 30 minutes of intentional, uninterrupted reading could do for your well-being.

Books transport us, comfort us, and remind us to slow down. Whether it’s a beautifully written novel, a plot twist thriller or a spicy romance, the simple act of turning pages can bring clarity and peace to a cluttered mind.

And let’s be honest—there’s nothing better than pairing a great book with a cozy self-care moment.

Before settling in with your next read, treat yourself first. Smooth on our Macadamia Oil Lotion, made with nourishing oils, for soft, comfortable skin that feels as luxurious as the words on the page.

Soft skin, a flickering candle, and a compelling story? Now, that’s a ritual worth keeping.

How to Create the Perfect Reading Ritual

A great book deserves the right setting. Here’s how you can elevate your reading experience and turn it into an intentional act of self-care:

1. Set the Atmosphere

Your reading ritual starts with ambiance. Instead of just grabbing a book and hoping for the best, create a sanctuary-like setting that signals relaxation.

• Dim the lights or light a candle for a warm, calming glow. The soft flicker of our Eleve Crackling Wood Wick Candle enhances the mood instantly.

• Choose a cozy spot. Whether it’s a reading nook, a corner of your bed, or a cozy armchair, having a designated space makes a difference.

• Play soft background music—instrumental jazz, lo-fi beats, or nature sounds can create an immersive escape.

2. Engage the Senses

A truly relaxing ritual goes beyond the book. Engage all your senses to deepen the experience:

• Scent: Choose a candle with English lavender and vanilla musk to help you unwind.
  

• Taste: Sip a cup of herbal tea or a glass of wine—whichever complements your mood best.

3. Be Fully Present

Make your reading time sacred. Put your phone on Do Not Disturb mode. Let yourself sink into the words without distractions.

Even if it’s just 20 minutes before bed, those moments add up. The goal is to shift from reading as an afterthought to making it a cherished part of your day.

What You Can Expect from Evenings with Eleve

So, what’s next? Expect posts that blend books, relaxation, and self-care into one seamless experience. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming:

📌 “The Best Books for a Slow & Cozy Evening” – A roundup of must-read novels that feel like a warm hug.

📌 “How to Romanticize Your Reading Routine” – Transform the way you approach books, with luxurious little touches that make reading feel special.

📌 “Book & Candle Pairings: The Ultimate Cozy Vibes” – Because every book deserves the perfect scent to go with it.

📌 “Creating a Reading Nook That Feels Like a Sanctuary” – Your step-by-step guide to designing a stress-free, book-filled escape in your home.

📌 “Self-Care Sunday: A Bookish Reset for the Week Ahead” – A weekly ritual designed to refresh your mind and soul before Monday hits.

Your Invitation to an Evening of Relaxation & Renewal

Here at Evenings with Eleve, I’ll be sharing everything you need to turn reading into your go-to ritual for relaxation—whether it’s book recommendations, self-care guides, or ways to create a bookish sanctuary at home.

Because you deserve more than just survival mode. You deserve moments that fill your soul.

How to Stay Connected

📌 Pin this post to your self-care or bookish Pinterest board!
📷 Follow along on Instagram (@hermodernfiction) for daily bookish inspiration & behind-the-scenes moments.
💌 Subscribe to the newsletter to get cozy book lists & self-care tips straight to your inbox.

Are you ready to rediscover the magic of slow, intentional evenings with books? Let’s turn the page together.

With love and intention,
Sarah