Being an English major, I’ve spent most of my life with my nose in a book, and I am somewhat embarrassed to say that I’ve developed some pretty serious crushes on a few fictional characters over the years. Let’s be real, sometimes it’s hard not to get invested in a great novel! It’s just, sometimes, you get a little… too invested. If you’re a book nerd like me, you are sure to have had a crush on at least half of these literary characters.
1. Jesse Aarons, Bridge to Terabithia
Yes, I’m taking it way back to the grade school days. First off, Bridge to Terabithia is a FANTASTIC book (if you haven’t read it stop what you’re doing and read it now) and Jesse was one of my first crushes. Not only is he artistic and imaginative, but he is played by none other than Josh Hutcherson in the film adaptation.
2. Mr. Darcy, Pride and Prejudice
One of the first swoon-worthy men in the realm of literature. A man who started off as a snob stole all the hearts of readers with his fierce loyalty to friends and devout love to Elizabeth. Need I say more?
3. Tyrion Lannister, A Song of Ice and Fire
I really hope I’m not the only one that has a HUGE crush on Tyrion Lannister. Maybe it’s the fact that Peter Dinklage plays him in Game of Thrones, or that he is the only good hearted Lannister in all of the Seven Kingdoms. Either way, he is totally crush-worthy.
4. Jay Gatsby, The Great Gatsby
Like the beloved Mr. Darcy, Gatsby is a classic character that women (and men!) have fallen in love with. He is stylish, well spoken, a hopeless romantic, and says “old sport.” Sounds like the full package to me.
5. Christian Grey, 50 Shades of Grey
I think at least half of us wishes that we could date Christian Grey, and the other half of us wants nothing to do with his red room of pain. Regardless of he’s the kind of ~man~ you’re into, you can’t deny that he is a total babe.
6. Augustus Waters, The Fault in Our Stars
Despite Augustus having an obsession with video games (not a fan) and a terribly sad fate, I obsessed over him for months. Actually, to be honest, I’m still crushing on him and hopes he climbs right out of that book and into my arms. Too far? But honestly, who couldn’t fall in love with his kind heart and adventurous side.
7. Peter Pan, Peter Pan
Totally not appropriate for any of us to have a crush on a boy who will never grow up, but I just can’t help it. Peter was our gateway into falling in love with the rebellious type. I always dreamed of hanging out with him and the Lost Boys, but now I’m all grown up like Wendy and have moved on. You’ll always have a soft spot in our hearts, Peter!