12 Fictional Romances Designed to Make You Go "Awww"

I love a good romance in just about any medium (novels, TV shows, musicals, movies, etc.), but I tend to be very picky about the ones I enjoy at a surface level and the ones I love. My OTPs, the ones I read copious amounts of fan-fiction about and shriek about on Twitter and Goodreads, are those truly special romances. Let's take a look at some of my favorites this Valentine's Day season.

(***Minor spoilers ahead if you haven't read some of these books/watched these shows***)

1. The Doctor/Rose

Anyone who's been following my blog for a while knows how deep my love goes for this ship. The second season of the "New Who" series may have corny special effects and some level of cheesy plotlines, but the Doctor and Rose were the heart of the story. There's a reason why Whovians are willing to look past said corny special effects and cheesy plotlines; because those two characters were perfect (both on their own and for each other).

2. Cress/Thorne

Cress is adorable, awkward, and shy and Thorne is the king of pickup lines and arrogance that somehow comes off as endearing. I don't know why I love these kinds of pairings as much as I do, but they work. I shipped this coupling more than any other in the Lunar Chronicles.

3. Monty/Percy

Here's another case of endearing arrogance, against all odds. Monty and Percy were great as a friendship, too, which is a key factor for well-written romances. They had undeniable chemistry throughout the entire story. And there aren't many people who would put up with Monty's questionable antics, so for that reason alone, Percy was perfect for him.


4. Cath/Levi

As far as fluffy college romances go, I'm not sure anything can top Fangirl. An introverted fan-fiction author and an extroverted barista is a match made in heaven. Levi could supply Cath with coffee and Cath read Levi stories. It's a win-win.

5. Lilac/Tarver

Gotta love the enemies-to-lovers trope. This book (and pairing) isn't talked about nearly enough and I don't understand why, because it was so good. Poor, underrated treasures. This was one of the first sci-fi books that kept my attention the whole way through. Two sworn enemies trapped on a deserted planet? You can imagine how great the tension was.

6. Simon/Blue

Your heart has to be made of stone to not find this pairing pretty dang adorable. I have ridiculous text exchanges with my friends all the time, so I can totally relate to their e-mails where they bond over things such as Oreos and Harry Potter. Their story is one of my favorite rom-coms.


7. Jesper/Wylan

Here's another instance of the shy cinnamon roll and the blustering charmer falling for each other and it being absolutely perfect. Really, all of the ships in this series were great in different ways, but these two stole my heart.


8. Beck/August

Logic pretty much dictates that this withdrawn, somewhat prickly, horribly abused boy would never go for a girl made of sunshine and cake and pure energy, because she is just so much to take, but this friendship/relationship defies logic. And they're adorable. I love Beck's sass and August's passion for just about everything.


9. Castle/Beckett

This whole television series was built upon murder, meta humor, and a will-they-won't-they romance. It hit just about every trope in the book and I'm trash for it all. I had such an obsession with this show, mostly because of Castle and Beckett's relationship. Castle does his best to annoy her, Beckett rolls her eyes a lot, they solve a lot of murders, and everyone in the show ships them. It's fantastic.

10. Jane/Michael

I know people have a lot of strong feelings about the love triangle in this show, but I always came back to this coupling. It has way less drama and way more fun. Michael's more of a boy-next-door type of guy. He's funny, dorky, and makes Jane take herself less seriously. It's so sweet.

11. Jake/Amy

Yet another pairing that really shouldn't work, but somehow does. Jake is an absolute dork, kind of a slob, and takes nothing seriously. Amy's uptight, orderly, and takes everything seriously. But if you put the two of them together, you get the perfect blend of each. One of my favorite parts of their evolving relationship was watching Amy get Jake hooked on Harry Potter. So funny.


12. Jess/Nick

These two are kind of a mess, but it's an adorable mess. Above all else, they're really good friends who have a ton of goofy fun together. They find all of the other's quirks absolutely endearing when not everyone would, which shows how well they're made for each other.

What are your favorite fictional pairings? Leave a comment!

Rip it or Ship it?

The "Rip it or Ship it?" book tag was created by emmmabooks, and since I was looking for a fun OTP-themed blog post for Valentine's Day, I couldn't pass this one up.

For those who aren't familiar with the tag, the concept of "Rip it or Ship it?" is to mix up a bunch of different names from book characters, randomly select two of them, and smush them together to create a couple. These characters can be (and should be, if you want to make it especially interesting) from different series/book worlds. If you think the two characters would work as a couple, you "ship it." If you think they'll go down in flames, you "rip it."***

***Please note that I don't condone ripping books in any way, shape, or form.

I've picked 10 different combinations of characters (some good, some bad, some so very bad that they're laughable), so . . .

1. Diana Prince from Wonder Woman: Warbringer and Linh Cinder from The Lunar Chronicles.

Amazon warrior + cyborg mechanic. Both of them are fiercely loyal to their friends, have a natural ability to lead, and strive to do what's right for the good of their people. Where Diana tends toward the more adventurous side of things, Cinder is generally more careful and calculated. Like with most of my favorite ships, these two are similar in lots of ways, but complement each other with their opposites. My conclusion:

2. Dolores Umbridge from Harry Potter and Jace Wayland from The Mortal Instruments

The most despicable of evil and condescending teachers at Hogwarts + angsty, muscular, demon hunter . . .

3. Inej Ghafa from Six of Crows and Tris Prior from Divergent

I can definitely see Inej fitting in with the Dauntless crowd, seeing as she's pretty much the tiniest and most terrifying acrobat you're likely to meet. Also, Tris has a strong set of morals, just like Inej. As for the chemistry, well . . . I suppose it could work? Maybe??

4. Neville Longbottom from Harry Potter and Isabelle Lightwood from The Mortal Instruments

Isabelle would completely intimidate Neville for a long time. In fact, Izzy would probably be the one to make the first move. She seems harsh at first, but underneath that callused exterior, she's kind and protective. And, as evidenced by the rabid Simon/Isabelle shippers, she works well with the sweet and dorky underdogs. I think Neville would benefit from someone with so much confidence who could push him to stand up for himself and go after things in life.

5. Cath Avery from Fangirl and Simon Snow from Carry On

I swear I didn't plan this.

As perfect as it would be for Cath, the biggest Simon Snow fan in the universe, to end up with Simon Snow himself, I think even Cath would be opposed to the pairing, seeing as she's dedicated most of her life to the idea that Simon and Baz were somehow going to end up together. Sadly, I have to do this:

6. Peeta Mellark from The Hunger Games and Nina Zenik from Six of Crows

Um, he makes delicious baked goods and she's obsessed with waffles and various tasty pastries. They could grow old together in a cozy little bakery, feasting on waffles and bread. It doesn't get much better than that.

7. Henry "Monty" Montague from The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue and Carswell Thorne from The Lunar Chronicles

I've been cracking up over my keyboard for the past few minutes imagining Monty and Thorne's inevitable meet-cute: they constantly try to one-up each other with their dashing good looks and charm with the ladies, but in their ridiculous competition end up falling for each other instead.

8. Luna Lovegood from Harry Potter and Reid from The Upside of Unrequited

This is a tricky one. On the one hand, Luna and Reid are both outcasts in their social circles, but for different reasons, so they'd probably find some common ground in that. On the other hand, while I find them both adorable, they're adorable in totally different ways. I'm not sure Luna's brand of weird and Reid's would necessarily mesh. So . . .

9. Augustus Waters from The Fault In Our Stars and AIDAN from The Illuminae Files

Nope. Nope, nope, nope, nope, nope.

10. Simon Spier from Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda and Harry Potter from Harry Potter

Again . . . did not plan this.

I think I have to go with this one just so I can indulge Simon's Harry Potter fantasies.

Your turn to play! Pick two characters randomly (out of a hat, from a generator, or from the first two books you spot on your bookshelf) and tell me if you would "rip it" or "ship it." Happy Valentine's Day!

7 Things that Get Me in the Holiday Spirit

And so are the holidays! I get extra excited for Christmas when there are less than ten days to go, but there are a few things that never fail to get me in the holiday spirit. Whether they be books, TV shows, or special food, they're all festive to me.

1. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

Hogwarts at Christmas is magical. You can't help but feel the wonder as Harry does during his first year at Hogwarts, with the Great Hall decked out in holiday attire and presents appearing at the foot of his bed when he wasn't expecting anything at all. There's something really innocent about the first book that feels extra cozy in December.

2. "Sherlock"

I started an accidental tradition with myself a few years ago when I was wrapping presents for friends and family. I wanted some background noise, so I put on an old "Sherlock" episode I'd seen a dozen times already. Now I watch an episode as I wrap every year. (This year I watched "A Scandal in Belgravia," since there's an actual Christmas party in the episode.)

3. "Doctor Who" Christmas specials

I consistently love the "Doctor Who" Christmas specials, and not just because they're longer. They're always a little bit heartbreaking, but also very heartwarming, and extremely well-written. This year I watched "A Christmas Carol" with my brother, since we were in a stage production of "A Christmas Carol." My favorites are probably "The Christmas Invasion" (because Tennant) and "Voyage of the Damned" (because Tennant). "The Snowmen" is also pretty good and really funny.


4. Hot chocolate with peppermint ice cream

Besides being delicious, this drink also prompts really great memories of me writing Beneath the Moon and Stars, which is set around Christmas and often features the main characters drinking hot chocolate with peppermint ice cream. If you haven't tried it before, you should do it now.

5. Christmas Crack

AKA addictive toffee that you have to crack apart into little pieces when you make it (see? The pun works both ways.). It's oh-so-good and the perfect blend of sweet and salty. We tops ours with all kinds of goodies: coconut, M&M's, Reese's minis, crushed candy canes, mini Twix, etc.

6. Rissóis de Camarão (Portuguese shrimp turnovers)

My family made these one year and we've had to restrain ourselves from making it several times throughout the year because they're amazing. Hands down my favorite holiday treat. We haven't made them yet this Christmas and my mouth is watering just thinking about them.

7. Snow and fuzzy socks

Nothing beats snow falling outside while you're warm and cozy inside, curled up with a book or bingewatching a new show.

What festive traditions do you have? Leave a comment!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Happy Valentine's Day to all of my fantastic followers (doesn't that sound like a superhero group--Fantastic Followers?)! To celebrate, I'll leave you with some cheesy "Hamilton" valentines below, as well as links to some of my other Valentine's Day themed blog posts. Enjoy! :)

-"Dear OTP (TCWT Blog Chain)"
-"What Makes a Great Fictional Romance?"
-"Beautiful People--February" (2016)
-"Beautiful People--February" (2017)

Why "Baby, It's Cold Outside" is Actually Extremely Creepy and Stalkerish

One of my favorite parts of this time of year is listening to Christmas songs. There are so many different kinds (bittersweet, fun, mellow, silly, etc.) but they all make you feel warm and fuzzy and get you into the holiday spirit. But there's one song that has always struck me as, well, just plain creepy. And that song is "Baby, It's Cold Outside." Just look at the lyrics below (with my many personal notes) and you'll see what I mean.


I really can't stay - Baby, it's cold outside
I've got to go away - Baby, it's cold outside
This evening has been - Been hoping that you'd drop in
So very nice - I'll hold your hands, they're just like ice
(Okay, mister, she's told you twice that she needs to go. So let her go!)
My mother will start to worry - Beautiful, what's your hurry?
(She just told you!)
My father will be pacing the floor - Listen to the fire place roar
So really I'd better scurry - Beautiful, please don't hurry
(You've crossed the line from rude and pushy to slightly creepy and possessive now.)
But maybe just half a drink more - Put some records on while I pour

The neighbors might think - Baby, it's bad out there
Say what's in this drink? - No cabs to be had out there
(Dude, what the heck did you put in her drink?! Here's a list of times it's appropriate to put something in someone else's drink without their knowledge: 1. NEVER)
I wish I knew how - Your eyes are like starlight now
To break this spell - I'll take your hat, your hair looks swell
I ought to say no no no, sir - Mind if I move in closer?
At least I'm gonna say that I tried - What's the sense in hurting my pride?
(Your pride? Really? You need to back off, she's already said she wants to leave!)
I really can't stay - Baby, don't hold out
Baby it's cold outside
(You're very pushy you know)
(I'd like to think of it as opportunistic)
(No, you're just pushy.)

I simply must go - Baby, it's cold outside
The answer is "No" - But, baby, it's cold outside
(NO MEANS NO)
This welcome has been - How lucky that you dropped in
So nice and warm - Look out the window at that storm
My sister will be suspicious - Gosh your lips look delicious
(Ew, pick your moments, dude. Are you even listening to her?)
My brother will be there at the door - Waves upon a tropical shore
My maiden aunt's mind is vicious - Gosh your lips are delicious
(Again: EW)
But maybe just a cigarette more - Never such a blizzard before

I've got to get home - Baby, you'll freeze out there
Say, lend me a coat? - It's up to your knees out there
(Some common sense! If it's cold, grab a coat. And let her gooo.)
You've really been grand - I thrill when you touch my hand
But don't you see - How can you do this thing to me?
There's bound to be talk tomorrow - Think of my life-long sorrow

At least there will be plenty implied - If you got pneumonia and died
(And now we get a guilt trip? Really? It's her decision and she's already presented a solution to the cold!)
I really can't stay - Get over that hold out
Baby it's cold
Baby it's cold outside
(Okay, fine, just another drink)
(That took a lot of convincing)
(*headdesks repeatedly*)

Do you see my point?

What are your favorite/least favorite Christmas songs and why? Leave a comment! 

St. Patrick's Day

Happy St. Patrick's Day! :) To celebrate, I'm sharing a list of some of my favorite books that have green covers. You need to read all of them ASAP. Seriously.

1. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire/Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling

You are basically guaranteed that at least one Harry Potter book will appear on any book meme I fill out. I don't know what you've been reading all these years if you haven't read Harry Potter yet. And if you haven't picked up the books yet, close this tab, walk away, and go read it. Immediately.


2. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

I blame Rick Riordan for my interest in Greek mythology. I love this series! I devoured each book in just a night or two. It's been a couple years since I've read it, but they deserve a reread soon. For those of you who watched the movies but didn't read the books, read the books. The movies didn't do them nearly enough justice.


3. Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell

(I freaking love this cover!) I have whole new appreciations for this book after discovering some of the better fan-fiction on the internet (SuperWhoLock!) and I've even written some of my own. It's a great warm-up before diving in to your WIP.


But back to Fangirl. It's a great novel with fantastic characters and dialogue, like every Rainbow Rowell book I've ever read. It's perfect for writers, introverts, fans of Harry Potter, and anyone who likes a good contemporary romance story.


4. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull

This fantasy series only gets better as it goes on! Fablehaven does have a lot of set-up, but towards the end of the book, it's almost impossible to put down. It's definitely one of my favorite series. If you like magical creatures, fantasy, and adventure, pick this one up.

5. Escape From Mr. Lemoncello's Library by Chris Grabenstein

This book is just plain fun. It's a good middle-grade book targeted for readers that are about 10-12, but I really enjoyed it, too. It's full of riddles and mystery and games that make you just involved in the story as the main characters. It's a nice, quick read.

6. City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

I love this series. It's a shame that nothing ever came of the second movie, because I really liked the first one. Hopefully they do come out with the TV show. The family dynamics in this, as well as the urban fantasy setting and the great side characters, are what makes it amazing. I absolutely adore Isabelle and Simon, and even the villains because they're so complicated. Plus, the plot twists! Cassandra Clare loves to mess with your head. Don't say I didn't warn you.

7. Please Ignore Vera Dietz by A.S. King

Though Glory O'Brien's History of the Future is my favorite book by her, pretty much anything you read by A.S. King is guaranteed to be good. There hasn't been a single one I didn't like. Please Ignore Vera Dietz is hard to put down, because you spend the whole book going, "What is happening here?" The feel of the book reminds me of stories like The Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp and Paper Towns by John Green. I also love that we got to hear parts of the story from different perspectives, including inanimate objects. So creative.

8. A Dog's Journey by W. Bruce Cameron

There's a dog on the cover, so you know what that means: You're going to cry. And you will. Lots of times. It's a sweet story about different incarnations of the same dog finding his owner in each of his lives as she grows up. It's a super sweet story that won't take you long at all to read.

What are your favorite green books? Leave a comment!

The Rainbow Ro(we)ll

Every year on New Year's Eve, our family makes a ton of food. We make everything from taquitos to buffalo chicken dip to assorted crackers and cheese balls. But the best part is the sushi.

I love sushi, in all shapes, sizes, and flavors. My dad makes really good sushi, and every New Year's Eve we make up our own sushi roll. Something besides your standard California roll or spicy tuna roll. It usually represents the past year in some way. My mom had the fantastic idea of making a "Rainbow Roll," which would represent the author Rainbow Rowell since we'd discovered her this past year.

We fell in love with the amazing book Eleanor & Park, and that is the inspiration for our Rainbow Ro(we)ll.

For the "Eleanor," we made an inside out California roll with shredded carrots on top to represent Eleanor's red hair (our sushi place was out of orange roe). For the "Park," we made a roll that had Kimchi inside since Park is Korean. We left the outside as seaweed, because Park's hair is jet black.

And there you have it. The Rainbow Ro(we)ll.

I should note that after coming up with this idea, we learned that her name is pronounced more like the word "towel," so I suppose I should also post a picture of a rainbow-colored towel to be truly correct, but we hope our tribute to one of our very favorite authors is appreciated just the same.



What do you think? :)

Merry Christmas!

And a happy New Year. :)

Credit goes to my BFF and her awesome photo editing skills

A Poem For My Dad

A while back on Mother's Day I wrote a poem for my mom. I saw it yesterday and realized I hadn't done one for my dad yet. Perfect timing! Here it is.

This is a poem I wrote for you.
You can read it when you're happy and sad,
Cheerful and blue.
You're funny and helpful,
Loving and smart.
You are a dad who is close to my heart.
And this is a poem where I want to say,
Have a wonderful Father's Day!

I love you, Daddy! :D

National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day

Happy National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day, everyone! :D Click HERE for a fantastic chocolate chip cookie recipe!

And be sure to check out my guest post on Positive Writer (see below)!

We're Moving

To Kansas.

By the end of this year.

APRIL FOOL'S!!!! ;)

What pranks have you pulled today? Leave a comment! :D

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas . . .

Only seven days until Christmas! :D (Well, for us, since we celebrate Christmas on Christmas Eve. It's so much more fun that way. We get to open presents early and stay up late)! :D Our house is decorated for Christmas. Is your house decorated? Here are some pictures of our decorations.

A pretty wreath on our door

Scout wants to help!

So cute

A Deathly Hallows ornament from Harry Potter World!!!! This is our first year that we have gotten to use it.

Looking cute

Ornaments

Ornaments from places we've visited all over the country.

Boy, all of this not helping to decorate sure makes me tired.

Our tree full of memories.

Snuggling on our new blanket.

Posing for the picture.

Our pretty Christmas tree.

The village.

Home made Christmas presents made by yours truly.

(Sorry about the picture being sideways). I made snowflakes and put them on the windows in my bedroom.

Another snowflake.

A post about Percy, our Elf on the Shelf, is coming soon! :D