They cost more up front, but if you buy a stove with baffles (that slow gases so they burn completely) you'll save firewood over time, and that will save time and money. They're designed to burn a long time on one load of wood. I like Jotul. Their webpage will find nearby dealers. They're from Norway, and while the price isn't cheap when you figure the price of firewood there's a payback point. Plus, their rep. is good.
This model is the one I like - that 'extra' box on top lets the gases burn completely. When you toss in a log (up to 24"...longer is better) it'll burn completely, from one end to the other like a cigar. Pretty efficent little wood stove. You can 'see' the fire thru the door, which is kind of nice, but low on my list.
Jotul