I've used a wood stove quit a bit over the years. My favorite wood was birch then maple. The hard woods burn much longer and hotter than pine, fir or spruce. Cedar is a flash in the pan and good only for fire starter IMO.
The liveliest wood as far as pops and crackles has always been Douglas fir.
Make sure your wood is seasoned, if it hisses, it isn’t dry.
I've never paid for the stuff, so i have no idea what it costs. If you do cut some yourself make sure it isn't sitting on the ground. A standing dead snag with it's bark off is the best.
As for fragrance, just shut your damper for a couple of seconds and you'll have enough smell for ten homes.
