My Top 10 favorite Book, Movie, and TV Show Couples

As romance writers, our job—if done correctly—is to create a couple that you can swoon over, root for, and hope to one day find for yourself.

With the upcoming release of my book 1 of my new series, The Lost Princess, I found myself reminiscing about some of my favorite couples from books, movies, and TV shows—couples I still enjoy rewatching today. Whether it’s their chemistry or the sweet words of love they share, these pairs are simply magical.

Note: Spoilers ahead if you haven’t watched these shows, movies, or read these books…Scroll at your own risk!

Let’s dive into my list!

10. Jim and Pam, The Office (TV Show)

This couple is the perfect “friends to lovers” trope, if that’s one you enjoy. Let’s set aside the brilliant writing of the show for a moment and focus on Jim (John Krasinski) and Pam (Jenna Fischer). It took until the end of season 3 and the beginning of season 4 for us to see them finally get together, but when they did… I jumped for joy. After years of Jim’s longing glances and knowing that Pam truly belonged with him, Pam couldn’t resist his charm and all-around amazing personality. Did I mention that Jim could always make us laugh? This couple was sweet, even when they faced real-life challenges, and they showed us what love could look like after being best friends.

Favorite quotes:

Jim: “Not ‘enough’ for me? You are everything.”

Pam: “When you’re a kid, you assume your parents are soulmates. My kids are gonna be right about that.”

9. Rick and Evelyn,The Mummy (Movie)

Where are my “protector to lovers” fans? Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz as Rick O’Connell and Evelyn Carnahan had chemistry. This movie is still, to this day, in my top 5 of all time. I mean, this movie has it all: sweet, slow-burn romance, action, adventure, and fantasy. I loved Rick’s character—he didn’t take himself too seriously, but was charming and sweet. Evelyn “Evie” is a strong-willed female character, always ready for an adventure and constantly getting the group into trouble. I mean, what harm can come from reading a book? In every scene they shared, their undeniable chemistry was off the charts. Their relationship still makes me smile 25 years later every time I watch this movie (spoiler alert: that’s a lot).

Favorite quotes:

Rick: “We coulda had ’em for free, all
we had to do was give ’em your sister.” Jonathan: “Yes, awfully tempting, wasn’t it?” 
Rick: (Sees her dressed up in a beautiful garment) “Awfully.”

Evelyn: “Do you have any bright ideas? (Rick says he will figure something out when the mummy demands Evie comes with him) You better. Because if he turns me into a mummy, you’re the first one I’m coming after.”

8. Rick & Kate, Castle (TV Show/Book)

I’ve always been a Nathan Fillion fan, but his work on Castle catapulted the show into the realm of my all-time favorites.

Rick Castle (Nathan Fillion) is a mystery writer with a wealth of knowledge about murder, death, and the inner workings of the human mind. Kate Beckett (Stana Katic) is an NYPD homicide detective driven to solve other people’s murders, haunted by her inability to solve her own mother’s murder as a young adult.

When Rick and Kate cross paths due to a copycat murder inspired by one of Rick’s novels, he cleverly weasels his way into her life by writing a new series where Kate becomes his muse. Together, they solve crimes in the most comedic and heartwarming way imaginable—considering they’re dealing with murder, of course.

From the start, these two build a strong foundation that evolves from colleagues to friends and eventually lovers. Though it takes nearly four full seasons of will-they-won’t-they before they finally give in to their feelings, once they do, the chemistry is undeniable and never fades. The writing on Castle was brilliant, witty, and at times, incredibly sexy. Despite the emotional walls Kate has built around herself, Rick never gives up—not even when it means he’s willing to risk his own life to ensure her mother’s killers face justice.

While I enjoy Fillion’s new show, The Rookie, I can’t help but feel that the chemistry and storytelling in Castle remains the gold standard.

Bonus: Author Tom Straw actually produced novels based (Nikki Heat Series) on the development of the show as “Richard Castle.” They are a great read especially when you follow along with the show.

Favorite quotes:

Rick: “Most people come up against a wall, they give up. Not you. You don’t let go. You don’t back down. That’s what makes you extraordinary.”

Kate: “The moment that I met you my life became extraordinary. You taught me to be my best self. To look forward to tomorrow’s adventures and when I was vulnerable you were strong. I love you Richard Castle and I want to live my life in the warmth of your smile and the strength of your embrace. I promise you I will love you. I will be your friend and your partner in crime and in life. Always.”

7. Rose and Dimitri, Vampire Academy (Book)

This series is dedicated to all the “forbidden lovers” fans. It’s one I still read every year, and it’s the series that introduced me to Mead’s Bloodlines series (extension to her Vampire Academy series). Rose Hathaway and Dimitri Belikov’s chemistry jumps off the page, even from their very first meeting. Dimitri is tasked with dragging Rose back to the academy after she and Lissa—Princess she is sworn to protect—have been on the run for more than a year without any academy protection. Dimitri, a few years older and essentially Rose’s mentor, is a no-nonsense, by-the-book, level-headed guy (referred to as a “God” by others who want to be just like him). Rose, on the other hand, is impulsive, witty, snarky, and absolutely hates following the rules. Despite their differences—and even the age gap—these two balance each other out. What I love most is how Rose slowly brings Dimitri out of his stoic shell. Dimitri helps ground Rose and shape her into the woman she becomes. For a man who doesn’t like breaking the rules, he sure breaks quite a few for the woman who holds his heart.

If you haven’t read this series yet, I highly recommend moving it up on your TBR list. The 2014 movie does a pretty good job staying true to the book, but stay far away from the TV show—it’s a complete travesty, especially when it comes to what they did to Dimitri’s character.

Favorite quotes:

Dimitri: “I would sacrifice everything for you, Rose. You are my world, my everything.”

Rose: “But I was meant for you.”

Bonus quotes about Rose and Dimitri’s relationship from others eyes:

• “Ah, those two. In a fight, they’re lethal. Around each other, they melt.”
• “Auras tell a lot, Rose, and I’m very good at reading them. Much better than your friends probably are. A spirit dream wraps your own aura in gold, which is how I knew. Your personal aura is unique to you, though it fluctuates with your feelings and soul. When people are in love, it shows. Their auras shine. When you were dreaming, yours was bright. The colors were bright…but not what expected from a boyfriend. Of course, not every relationship is the same. People are at different stages. I would’ve brushed it off, except…when you’re with Dimitri, your aura’s like the sun. So is his.”

6. Mark and Lexie, Grey’s Anatomy (TV Show)

This next couple is for all the fans of the age gap trope. While Dr. Mark Sloan (Eric Dane) graced us with his beautiful presence in Season 2 of Grey’s Anatomy, it wasn’t until his better half formally joined in Season 5—Dr. Lexie Grey (Chyler Leigh)—that one of the most enigmatic and heartbreaking storylines in Grey’s history was born. It became the only storyline I ended up following and watching in full.

Although there were a lot of drama-filled moments and storylines I wasn’t a fan of (and why they are higher up on the list) when it came to Mark and Lexie, the core of their relationship—and what they did for each other—was impossible not to root for. Before Lexie, Mark didn’t feel worthy of love. His difficult childhood left him with deep insecurities, but meeting Lexie made him want to be someone worthy of her. Lexie, on the other hand, struggled with feeling seen and didn’t always know how to show her self-worth—something Mark helped her discover. Their chemistry was undeniable, and you couldn’t help but love how they both bettered each other.

Alas, things came to a literal and heartbreaking halt when the pair were involved in a plane crash at the end of Season 8. Code blue for Lexie, who Mark does everything in his power to save—his soulmate and the love of his life (yes, this was confirmed). But Lexie couldn’t survive. Mark, devastated to lose her after they’d just found each other again and declared their undying love, loses the will to go on without her and succumbs to his injuries. Time of death: Season 9.

While the pair did make a brief return in a dream sequence in Season 17 (a bit lackluster, but I understand the logistical challenges that led to most of those scenes being filmed via green screen), we fans got the confirmation that Mark and Lexie found each other in the afterlife and are together. Mark and Lexie were magical, beautifully portrayed by Dane and Leigh. Their tender and supportive moments together are some of my absolute favorites of all time.

Favorite quotes:

Mark: “…If I can have a part in making her happy again, then that’s all I want to do…for the rest of my life.”

Lexie: “I’m so in love with you. And you’re in me. It’s like you’re a disease. It’s like I’m infected by Mark Sloan.”

5. Ross and Rachel, Friends (TV Show)

Could this couple be any cuter? Okay, I know, I know — that was Chandler’s catchphrase. However, if you watched any episodes of Friends, it was hard to ignore this duo. The will-they-won’t-they courtship of Ross Geller (David Schwimmer) and Rachel Green (Jennifer Aniston) is still a fan favorite, even a decade after the show aired its final season.

Who doesn’t love a good underdog story — the popular beauty queen falling for the nerdy geek from high school? It doesn’t hurt that, in addition to his intelligence, Ross is down-to-earth, sensitive, and a genuinely good guy. And while Rachel has her flaws, often coming across as self-absorbed and spoiled, her character blossoms once she and Ross begin exploring their feelings for each other.

What I loved about this couple is that, even through the hard times and breakups, they both genuinely loved each other and wanted the best for each other — whatever would make them happy, even if that didn’t mean being together. I mean, how could they not end up together in the end, when she’s his lobster?

Favorite quotes:

Ross: “It’s always been you, Rach.”

Rachel: “I can’t even explain how much I am going to miss you. Every time I think about not seeing you every day, it makes me not want to go.”

4. Katniss and Peeta, The Hunger Games (Movie/Book)

Author Suzanne Collins creates an outstanding dystopian world where, after an uprising by the people, each year, as punishment, one boy and one girl from each of the twelve districts are sent to the Hunger Games trials, where only one can survive. The trials are broadcast on national TV for all to see as a reminder of what happens if you defy leadership.

We meet Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) and Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson), both from the same district and selected to compete in the next Hunger Games, with only one expected to survive. However, we learn early on that Peeta has had a crush on Katniss since he first laid eyes on her (and heard her sing), while Katniss barely notices Peeta and has a strong attachment to her best friend, Gale (Liam Hemsworth). Now, I’m not usually a fan of the love triangle trope, but this one didn’t bother me so much, because it was clear from the very beginning that Peeta cared about nothing more than Katniss’s well-being and happiness. I had faith they were the true endgame.

Katniss and Peeta face their fair share of obstacles and challenges. However, what I loved most about their relationship is how they support each other—not just in the good times but in the difficult ones too. In fact, some of my favorite scenes are when they share little moments, like talking to each other or leaning on each other to escape the demons that plague them from the atrocities of the trials. Katniss and Peeta are a true example of love’s depth, showing how you can overcome even the most heart-wrenching problems a couple can face together. For that reason alone, they deserve a spot on this list.

Favorite quotes:

Peeta: “My nightmares are usually about losing you. I’m OK once I realize you’re here.”

Katniss: Peeta: “You love me. Real or not real?” Katniss:  “Real.”

Katniss: “Will you stay with me?”

Peeta: “Always.”

3. Jane and Guildford, My Lady Jane (TV Show/Book)

Here’s another book-turned-TV adaptation that was brilliant and almost made it to number one on my list (keep scrolling to find out who beat them out). Jane (Emily Bader) and Guildford (Edward Bluemel) would likely also be on the list of actors and character couples whose incredible chemistry should be studied. Bader and Bluemel shine in the TV adaptation of the book written by Brodi Ashton, Cynthia Hand, and Jodi Meadows.

This love story kicks off with the classic enemies-to-lovers trope, which eventually leads to their arranged marriage. Guildford agrees to the marriage to keep his secret—that he’s an Ethian and can turn into a horse—and Jane wants nothing more than her freedom from marriage. Add in snark, charm, and a strong heroine who can save herself, and voilà—a spark is born. While both are instantly attracted to each other, it’s their continued support in saving each other that makes their relationship so special—and sexy!

I’m not afraid to admit that I’m a Janeford shipper, and I was heartbroken when Amazon Prime didn’t give this amazing show—packed with phenomenal chemistry—a second season. (Calling Netflix, Paramount+, HBO… anyone?!? Please save My Lady Jane.) If you haven’t watched this gem of a show or read the book, it’s a must-add to your TBR and TBW lists.

Favorite quotes:

Guildford: “When you came after me at the tavern, you nearly died. You nearly died, and then who would I have argued with?”

Jane: “You’d have found someone.”

“No. I only want to argue with you.”

Jane: “I know I’m not inspiring much confidence at this point, but there’s something else I thought I’d bring up. I love you more than I love books.”

2. Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy, Pride and Prejudice (Movie/Book)

Of course, my favorite novel of all time would make this top ten list. Pride and Prejudice is a classic for a reason. While there have been many shows and movies, none has done it better than the 2005 movie version starring Keira Knightley (as Elizabeth Bennet) and Matthew Macfadyen (Fitzwilliam Darcy). I mean… Macfadyen IS Mr. Darcy.

Anyway, what makes this couple so romantic and shine—both in the book and the movie—is in the name. Their initial pride and prejudice toward each other are also the reasons they are able to understand each other and later grow intense feelings for one another, ultimately accepting each other’s flaws. Plus, it doesn’t hurt to see the lengths Darcy is willing to go to in order to change Elizabeth’s perception of him. Austen’s work is a classic, another proof that slow-burn, sweet moments can have you swooning.

Favorite quotes:

Darcy: “In vain have I struggled. It will not do. My feelings will no longer be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you.” 


Elizabeth: “I do, I do like him. I love him. Indeed he has no improper pride. He is perfectly amiable.”

Emma and Killian/Hook, Once Upon A Time (OUAT) (TV Show)

We made it to number one—dearies!! There is no better “number one” than Captain Swan — the OG of enemies-to-lovers with dynamic chemistry. (Oncers Assemble) In fact, just like My Lady Jane on this list, this couple and the actors who portrayed them should be studied when it comes to on-screen chemistry.

Emma Swan (Jennifer Morrison) is the daughter and product of true love, born from Snow White and Prince Charming’s love. In the series, she was sent away as the “Savior” to come back and save all magic after the Evil Queen casts a curse that makes everyone forget who they are. However, growing up without her parents and living life as an orphan left Emma with deep trust and abandonment issues. Enter our dashing, swashbuckling, handsome pirate, Killian Jones (Hook) portrayed by (Colin O’Donoghue)—one of the best portrayals of a pirate I have seen (sorry Jack Sparrow fans)—who, after centuries of mourning the death of his first love (Milah), falls hard for Emma from their very first encounter early in season two of the series. (Honestly, O’Donoghue does not get enough recognition for his incredible talent. He should have way more leading roles. Go watch him in “The Rite”).

Anyway, not only is this an enemies-to-lovers story, but it’s also a “he falls first” and “she falls harder” romance. One of the most beautiful things about their relationship is that Hook never tries to change Emma. Instead, he’s always there to support, encourage, and love her. While Emma resists the depths of her emotions for him thanks to her troubled past, we learn in later seasons that these two are truly are soulmates. (Yes!!) It doesn’t hurt that you have singer/songwriter, Christina Perri write and dedicate her song, “The Words” to this perfect couple and their love as a Captain Swan fan herself. Perri’s video even includes O’Donoghue as her leading man and has several OUAT references in the video (can you find them all?). When you listen to the lyrics, it perfectly illustrates Captain Swan’s entire relationship throughout the OUAT series. Check out The Words Music Video.

Well, I guess that means I’m off to rewatch Once Upon a Time again. Oh, darn!

Favorite quotes:

Hook: “When I win your heart, Emma, and I will win it. It will not be because of any trickery. It will be because you want me.”

Hook: “I’d go to the end of the world for her. Or Time.”

Emma: “My armors been on for such a long time that sometimes I forget that I don’t need it with you.“

Emma: “Just because you learn that you come from true love doesn’t mean you believe you’ll ever find it. But, thanks to you, now I have.”

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Well, there you have it – my list of top 10 favorite book, TV show, and movie romance relationships. Did any of my couples make it onto your list? Did I miss any that you think should have been included? Share your thoughts in the comments below; I’d love to hear from you!

XOXO,


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