There’s a concept floating around in the reading community called “book boyfriends.” This phenomenon occurs when a character is so real and so dreamy (like beauty, the definition is determined by the beholder) that it aches to know you’ll never actually meet them. I must admit, I’m not a stranger to this concept and have had my fair share of thoughts approximating if only he would ask me on a Valentine’s Day date!
Given that it’s the month of love and there’s romance in the air, what could be better than a walk down memory lane to revisit book boyfriends, past and present?
Before we begin, I must offer a disclaimer regarding book boyfriends and the language used to reference them. Whether admiring a character through fan art or a descriptive comment (i.e. “JEFNVOBSDOVBNSJDLS”), it’s important to be appropriate. Though we may have been contemporaries with them when we first read their stories, we must remember that some of these characters are minors in their worlds, and we should appreciate their stories, roles, and history in our lives as such.
Percy Jackson
Book(s): Percy Jackson and the Olympians and The Heroes of Olympus series
Author: Rick Riordan
Percy proves himself to be the most ultimately loyal partner for Annabeth and practically worships at her feet. On top of that, he’s hilarious, charming, and adventurous, which made Fourth Grade Me swoon for Seaweed Brain alongside Wise Girl.
Peeta Mellark
Book(s): The Hunger Games series
Author: Suzanne Collins
First, let’s all agree that the correct team to be on is Team Katniss. Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way… let’s just say that my middle school self was a staunch Team Peeta supporter and would have told you how kind-hearted, gentle, and reliable he is–which is just what Katniss loved about him!
Po and Giddon
(Pictured: Po)
Book(s): Graceling realm
Author: Kristin Cashore
It’s too hard to pick between two of my favorite Graceling realm guys, so I simply won’t do it. The two of them are multitalented, loyal, and deeply dedicated to doing what’s right. They protect the women they love fiercely but know how to defer to their strengths. I am glad they’ve both had time to shine in their separate books!
Nikolai Lantsov
Book(s): Siege and Storm, Ruin and Rising, Crooked Kingdom, King of Scars, Rule of Wolves
Author: Leigh Bardugo
The Grishaverse has its fair share of heroes, but one of my favorites is the quick-witted and always-moving Nikolai. His ability to banter is unmatched, and he’s constantly scheming for the cause he backs. Thank goodness he got his own series!
Mr. Darcy
Book(s): Pride and Prejudice
Author: Jane Austen
There isn’t much to say here except: who would I be if I didn’t include the original book boyfriend?
Wherever you find your book boyfriends this Valentine’s day, may you be swept off your feet by the dreamiest of characters and celebrate by throwing your favorite book lovingly across a room!