They don't look too happy, but they're in love. Trust me.

Karen and I will reveal our book character crushes on Tuesday’s romance-themed podcast, but I’ll go ahead and make a lovesick fool of myself right on Valentines’ Day. When I see these names in print, my heart goes a little a-flutter:

Gabriel, from Sixth Grade Secrets by Louis Sachar: Gabriel has a crush on Laura Sibbie. And even though he’d never admit it, his secret crush starts a war of secret clubs in the entire sixth grade class.

Ron Weasley from the Harry Potter series: I have a soft spot for the goofy, awkward guys, and Ron is definitely goofy and awkward. And even though he puts his foot in his mouth quite a few times (those birds Hermione sent attacking were well-deserved), I just want to pinch his freckled cheek.

Almanzo Wilder from the Little House series by Laura Ingalls Wilder: As you can tell by Laura’s last name, it worked out for them.

Mr. Darcy from the classic Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen: Even a dorky first name like “Fitzwilliam” doesn’t stop the ladies from swooning at the sight of this smoldering, brooding gentleman.

So those are my literary crushes. Leave a comment if you’re willing to reveal yours!

— Nancy

P.S. You’ll notice that Edward Cullen is intentionally not on this list. I’ll just leave it at that.