LEGO’s no stranger to The Lord of the Rings, having launched epic sets like Rivendell, Barad-dûr, and The Shire since 2023, each a grand nod to Middle-earth’s legendary spots. LEGO Icons The Lord of the Rings Balrog Book Nook (10367), a 1,201-piece masterpiece hitting shelves June 1, 2025, for $129.99, essentially recreates Gandalf the Grey’s epic clash with the Balrog on the Bridge of Khazad-dûm from Peter Jackson’s The Fellowship of the Ring.
The Balrog Book Nook, however, takes a different approach. At 1,201 pieces, it’s the smallest and most affordable Lord of the Rings set in recent years, making it an accessible entry point for fans of all budgets. “We wanted to create something that feels epic but fits into everyday spaces,” says LEGO designer Mike Psiaki in a press release. “The Book Nook format lets us focus on a single, powerful moment and make it a functional piece of decor.”
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When closed, it mimics the look of a thick tome, blending seamlessly with your Tolkien collection or any row of novels. Crack it open, and you’re hit with a stunning diorama of the Bridge of Khazad-dûm, capturing Gandalf’s blazing battle with the Balrog. Spanning 10 inches tall, 8 inches wide, and 8 inches deep when open, it folds to a sleek 4 inches wide when shut, perfect for tight apartments or packed shelves. “It’s about bringing Middle-earth into your home in a way that’s subtle yet striking,” Psiaki adds.
The star of the show is the Balrog itself, a brick-built beast with poseable wings that span an impressive width when fully extended. LEGO has gone all-in on the details here: the Balrog’s body is wreathed in translucent orange and red pieces to simulate flames, and its whip is crafted from flexible elements that give it a dynamic, lashing look. You also get a Gandalf the Grey minifigure, wielding staff and sword, boldly holding the bridge, as well as printed plaque with the legendary “You shall not pass” quote.
Displayed open, it’s a conversation starter, with the Balrog’s wings and flames demanding attention. Closed, it becomes a discreet nod to The Lord of the Rings, perfect for fans who want to subtly showcase their fandom. This versatility sets it apart from larger sets like Rivendell, which require dedicated display space. “We designed it to be both a model and a piece of storytelling,” says LEGO design manager Jordan Scott. “You can hide it among your books or let it steal the show.”
