Valentine’s Day isn’t a holiday I usually pay much attention to, but I do like the idea of celebrating love. Last year, I celebrated by listing my favorite TV and movie couples (see My Favorite Meant To Be Couples), so I thought this Valentine’s Day should be dedicated to my favorite couples from the world of books.
Image from: ideachampions.com
Seeing as I read a number of different genres, this list is nothing if not eclectic!
1) Edward and Bella from Twilight
I can hear the groans now, but I remain a dedicated fan of this vampire/human couple. I love Edward’s old-fashioned sense of masculinity (without being a chauvinist) and Bella’s ability to challenge Edward. Despite the drama of teenage angst, through it all both are willing sacrifice everything for each other.
2) Christian and Ana from Fifty Shades of Grey
And the groans get louder. The Fifty Shades phenomenon gets a lot of attention for its erotic scenes, but my favorite elements of the book are rooted in the emotional evolution of both characters. Christian is damaged and broken, while Ana is on a journey to find her strength as a woman and individual. Together these two crackle with chemistry, but how they love one another is what sizzles.
3) Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennett from Pride and Prejudice
I know, I know, this pair has been around forever. They are on everyone’s list, but it’s for a good reason. Their love story is timeless and beautiful. First impressions almost destroyed a perfect pair, but I love the idea that love can triumph over pride or prejudice if given a chance to breathe.
4) Mr. Rochester and Jane Eyre from Jane Eyre
Jane Eyre is my favorite book (ever), so naturally Jane and her love would make it onto my list. Mr. Rochester’s broken soul heals in the hands of an accepting and patient Jane. A plain girl finds her beauty thanks to the challenge of Mr. Rochester’s prickly personality.
5) Constance Chatterly and Oliver Mellors from Lady Chatterly’s Lover
A gruff groundskeeper and refined woman are an unexpected pair, but their need for one another is undeniable. In an interesting comparison, both suffer from inherent isolation and loneliness. While their backgrounds are world’s apart, they understand each other in a way no one else can. Constance and Oliver’s story is truly moving, not to mention very sensual. Fifty Shades could take a few lessons from D.H. Lawrence.
6) Clary and Jace from the The Mortal Instruments Series
They protect the world from demons, yet still find the time for a tender love affair. Clary is a strong-minded girl who doesn’t let anyone push her around, while Jace is a cocky, warm-hearted warrior. She’s got the backbone to stand up to him and he’s only got eyes for her.
7) Anne Elliot and Captain Wentworth from Persuasion
With Wentworth for a pen name, it shouldn’t be a surprise that these two are on my list! Anne and Wentworth prove that true love can stand the test of time and separation. He loves her sensibility and compassion and she loves his kind heart whether he’s got money or not. And who doesn’t love a story of two star-crossed lovers defying social convention?
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Who are your favorite literary couples?
Happy Valentine’s Day! May your day be filled with love and joy!
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c.b.w. 2013
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C.B. Wentworth 