Match #19: Hermione (Seed #4) vs Emerson (Seed #20) goes to Hermione!

And the winner is.....

HERMIONE!

Welcome to The YA Sisterhood and round 2 of The Tournament of Heroines, The Superior Sixteen!  Thank you in advance for your participation in our Tournament of Heroines! We hope you make some friends (and not too many enemies), discover some fantastic books, and have a lot of fun!

Some general rules before we begin:

There may be some spoilers in the following post. We've tried to keep it fairly general, but overall, this Tourney will not be spoiler-free. So beware.

Secondly, You are welcome to write your own comments about either character in the comments section, but we will not tolerate rudeness. The minute it crosses over from logical argument into character bashing, your comments will be deleted and your vote canceled.  POLLS WILL BE OPEN FOR 24 HOURS AND WILL CLOSE AT 12:01AM EST ON DECEMBER 22nd.

And now for the match....

I’m Jen, from the blog Unedited, I tweet avidly at @jenunedited, and can be found stalking YOU on facebook… but that’s enough about me. I’m the advocate for Hermione Granger and that’s where my focus is. To stay involved of all things Hermione Granger use hashtag #TEAMHERMIONE on twitter! Include my twitter so I can retweet and connect with you as much as possible!

About Her

So, let’s talk Hermione. You know, the girl who started with two big front teeth and turned into one amazing hottie. This brown hair, brown-eyed beauty can be found wearing the latest fashions when she isn’t in her black robes at Hogwarts. She’s not only bright in the Muggle world (non-magic folks) but can be found at the top of her class in the Wizarding world (magic folks… keep up). She’s known as a bit of a know-it-all but when you find yourself in a bind she’ll be the first with a spell to pull you right out of the sticky situation.

Best Attributes

Hermione isn’t your cookie-cutter heroine. The rawness in her inability to fit in makes her relatable to many girls. She wants to make friends and when she finally does she befriends several different personalities. The beauty of her friendship is the loyalty and trustworthiness she brings to the table. Judgment is left for those who are incompetent of understanding her beliefs. She’s a great support system for the house-elves and will stop at nothing until they’re freed. She’s a go-getter and the term give-up can NOT be found in her vocabulary.

What makes Hermione a true heroine?

Protecting the innocence and taming the guilty is a regular occurrence when hanging with her two best friends, Ron and Harry. From performing spells to hide from her enemies, to flying her way out of a sticky situation on the back of an invisible thestral (only seen to those who’ve witnessed death) this girl puts trust to a whole new level. Her ability to fake her way through a chess game, know how to destroy horcruxes, and learning all about the deathly hallows, she’s your own personal guide in any walk of life. Did I mention her determination... look at her... see what I mean?

Why should you vote for Hermione instead of Emerson?

Holy pancake… the pressure is on. Emerson is no joke. She’s a total rockstar in Hourglass. How’s a girl like Hermione supposed to compete with her? BECAUSE SHE’S JUST AS AWESOME. Duh, (what did you think I was going to say?)

These characters are here for a reason, as are their advocates. We’re supposed to show their brilliance. I can’t force you to vote for Hermione (if I could she would have already used the IMPERIO curse on you… which she’s fully against – I’m the one with no self-control).

Emerson is no underdog and though several people will say that Hermione has had her time in the spotlight, I have to ask, has she really? Hermione has never been in the spotlight by herself. Always sharing it with her two best buds, Ron and Harry can be time consuming. JK Rowling did wonderful showing friendship and loyalty, but Hermione deserves a little more confidence and faith that her readers didn’t just love the boys, but her as well. This round I’m asking you to show Hermione some extra love that she’s just as important solo as she is in a trio.

And just in case that isn't enough, how about Ryan Gosling helping promote a good cause? After all, isn't he sweet to be TEAM HERMIONE?

Anything else you’d like to add?

This ROCKSTAR was ready for fame and her name deserves to be on the next bracket. Help me carry our girl to the end and you won’t just dream of pygmy puffs and chocolate frogs… those goodies will be granted.

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Emerson Cole is the heroine from Myra McEntire's Hourglass! Check it out here!

 ----Who is Emerson Cole----

This blonde haired green eyed girl isn't your everyday time traveler.

She takes time travel to a whole new level!

Entirely selfless, beyond brave, big hearted and true.

Don't let her size fool you. This girl's got fight and sarcasm to back it up!

“It's amazing what flipping a grown man over her shoulder does for a girl.”

----Why we love her----

Most girls would fall apart after losing both parents. Throw in an overprotective brother with custody over pretty much her entire life, and the fact that she see's ghosts. This girl can definitely hang in there!

After meeting Micheal (potential love of her life), learning about The Hourglass, and being told that the future of everyone she loves rests in her hands.

Does she panic?

NO WAY!

"I made the decision to help you all by myself. I know you have my back and I have yours..."

----What makes her our heroine----

She's smart and strong willed to the end.

Never backing down.

Defying all odds.

This girl doesn't need saving.

She knows what it'll take to live, to survive, to save them all!

She'll fix the past, save the future, and get the guy in the end while doing it!

“Your size makes you seem delicate, like a spiderweb. But the wise fly knows that delicate can also be strong.”

__________________________________________________________________
----Emerson vs Hermione----

Emerson didn't have much time to master her time travel ability. She didn't have to take classes to learn her skills. She knew what she could do. She knew what she had to do. 

And she came through! This girl doesn't need a fancy school or magic wands.. All she needs is heart, determination, and faith in herself. 

Emerson Cole has all that and more!

__________________________________________________________________________

----Still not convinced?----
Here's a video from the one person that knows Emerson Cole the best. 
Micheal has a little something to say about his true heroine....

---What if we win this?----

We're not done yet! Here's what you've got to look forward too after another Team Emerson Win!

The next Team Emerson post will be filled with all new surprises! 

One particular surprise involving YOU GUYS!!! 

Have I sparked your curiosity yet???

Only one way to find out!!! Vote Vote Vote!!!!

If that's not enough

The AMAZING Myra McEntire promised a brand new scene from Hourglass!!!

(Her last scene was AMAZING guys!! Your gonna wanna read more! I know I do!) 

She's not done yet...
This incredibly awesome author has also promised to giveaway an
ARC of Timepiece!!! 
Along with an

ANNOTATED HOURGLASS and an ANNOTATED TIMEPIECE

if Team Emerson can win it all!!!!

Now it's up to you guys!

Make sure to stop by www.booklove101.com and grab yourself a #TeamEmerson button! 

Tweet about the tourney using the #heroinetourney tag!!

and

*VOTING IS NOW CLOSED*

Timepiece by Myra McEntire Cover to Die For

OH MY WORD!!!!!  I literally screamed or more of a really loud EEEEEKED, when I saw this cover was out!!!!  This is absolutely breathtaking!  AND, Timepiece (Hourglass #2) comes out just in time for the 2nd Annual YA Crush Tourney!!!  I have a feeling McMelty Michael and McHotty Kaleb are going to be front runners!  They are just so dang wonderful!!!  Right now, its scheduled to be released by EgmontUSA on June 12.  Summer CANNOT come soon enough!  Congrats Ms. Myra on another amazing cover and I can't wait devour this book!!!

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Hourglass by Myra McEntire

Hourglass by Myra McEntire
Released: June 14, 2010
Published by: Egmont USA
Reviewed by: AmyG


Summary from goodreads.com

One hour to rewrite the past . . .

For seventeen-year-old Emerson Cole, life is about seeing what isn’t there: swooning Southern Belles; soldiers long forgotten; a haunting jazz trio that vanishes in an instant. Plagued by phantoms since her parents’ death, she just wants the apparitions to stop so she can be normal. She’s tried everything, but the visions keep coming back.

So when her well-meaning brother brings in a consultant from a secretive organization called the Hourglass, Emerson’s willing to try one last cure. But meeting Michael Weaver may not only change her future, it may change her past.

Who is this dark, mysterious, sympathetic guy, barely older than Emerson herself, who seems to believe every crazy word she says? Why does an electric charge seem to run through the room whenever he’s around? And why is he so insistent that he needs her help to prevent a death that never should have happened?

Full of atmosphere, mystery, and romance, Hourglass merges the very best of the paranormal and science-fiction genres in a seductive, remarkable young adult debut.

Holy Toledo, Hourglass!!!  I've been hearing about how amazing this book for months now, and not to mention the gorgeous cover!!!  I read it the day it came out, and then read it again the next week!  Let me just say, and I hope I can get the words perfect, UN-FREAKIN-BELIEVABLE!!!  Fair warning, this is just going to be a complete gush festival of fan-girling.  This is just one of those books that require it!  Before I just completely start blubbering about this book, I need to lay down some kind of structure.  Since, I love lists, instead of doing my normal 3 things I like, I'll list the top ten things I love about this novel!

1.  The meltiness, oh the meltiness

Myra McEntire, my friend, you know how to make a girl melt.  I was literally flipping through the pages with giddiness and the goofiest grin on my face!  If you like those butterflies in your tummy, and your insides turning to complete mush, then sprint to get this book right now!  As I was reading this, I was dropped right back into the days of dating my hubby!  That feeling of meltiness is the reason I am married and have 3 kids today!  Thanks goodness these boys are just fictional, I would be in quite the dilemma at this moment!

2.  Emerson

First off, Baby Sister Britt and I have always loved this name!  If I could re-pick a name for myself, I would be an Emerson!  And this Emerson, lives up to her name!  She's a perfect fit!  She's not the annoying naive heroine that graces many pages of these YA novels.  She's real.  She's dealt with pain, tragedy, guilt, and suffering, but through it all she's not a hollow shell.  She can still laugh!  I love the things that come out of her mouth.  I found myself several times say, "She is so me!!!"  I say the same things she does!  "Kill me!"  I think we all love being able to see ourselves in a character!

3.  Time-travel

Man, do I love time travel!  I've been begging Baby-Sis-B to write me a time-travel novel for years!  There's something about the possibility of being able to go back.  To go back to the times and places we love, we've studied about, or we've read about.    How many of us have dreamed about going back to the Regency Era and meeting our own Mr. Darcy or Mr. Rochester?!?  The idea of time travel puts the world at our fingertips!

4.  Michael

, Melty McMeltiness is my new name for Michael.  If absolutely perfect, nice guys are your thing, then Michael is your new YA Man!  After reading this, your mind will be in tatters at the price he is willing to pay for Emerson!  I'm still blown away and its been a few weeks since I've read this novel!  He is suave, handsome, and has a way with words that will bring you to your knees!  Also, I can't forget to mention that his chemistry is literal!  Every time McMelty and Emerson touch, waves of electricity churn between them until lights are blown out!  Now that is setting the place on fire!

5.  Kaleb

Oh Kaleb, my Kaleb!  If only I could put into words the amazingness of Kaleb!  The more he sits in my head, the more I love him!  He is broken!  I mean the epitome of brokenness!  Which means for me, that I am all over that like white of rice!  You know how I love my broken boys!  I could spend the rest of my life fixing him!  His brokenness stems from not only loss but from the fact that he is an empath.  To constantly feel everyone's emotions with no filter would be unbearable.  With that though, he knows what you are feeling without having to say a word!  The reason I am slightly obsessed with broken boys is because they always step up when the time is at hand!  Many times they come off as cocky and aloof, but usually that is just a facade.  When the poop hits the fan, the broken boys come running, in their superman capes!  In Hourglass, when that time comes for Kaleb, it will leave you shattered and moved to the core!  Seriously, if you have not read this book, go read it NOW!!!  

6.  Super-powers

I know I've only talked about Michael, Emerson and Kaleb thus far.  But, there is a whole slew of other characters in residence in Hourglass.  The Hourglass is an X-men type school or place for young people to come for safety and to fine tune their abilities.  We didn't get to see much of them in the this book, but I have a feeling they are all going to come into play in the future books!  Its a great cast of characters that you are not going to want to miss!

7.  Time

Wow, the whole concept of time!  If you just sit back and really think about time, it is completely mind boggling!  Is time always on a plain?  If you change something in the past, will your present or future self even realize it?  Or will it simply just become apart of you, and your mind wiped clean of the differences?  I've been tying by mind in knots trying to come to a concrete understanding of something so very abstract!  Come join me, its great fun!!!    

8.  The South

Tennessee, the backdrop of many of my dreams of living during the frontier days!  There is something about The South that creates such a rich setting for novels.  The history, the plantations, the hot, steamy temperatures make the world in Hourglass come alive.  One of the characteristics of a time-traveler is the ability to see rips, in a way ghosts.  Now, picture being able to see rips in a place with such historical roots as Tennessee!  Walking down the street, you don't know who you will encounter, southern belles, Native Americans, Revolutionary or Civil War soldiers, the lists goes on and on.  I have a feeling the South will continue to be a mainstay for future novels!

MY LAST 2 ARE GOING TO CONTAIN SERIOUS SPOILERS!  PLEASE DO NOT READ IF YOU HAVE NOT READ THIS NOVEL.  CLICK MORE BELOW TO KEEP READING!

YA Crush Tourney: Tod vs. Michael Goes to Tod

AND THE WINNER IS:

TOD

Some general rules before we begin:

There may be some spoilers in the following post. We've tried to keep it fairly general, but overall, this Tourney will not be spoiler-free. So beware. 

Secondly, You are welcome to write your own comments about either character in the comments section, but we will not tolerate rudeness. The minute it crosses over from logical argument into character bashing, your comments will be deleted and your vote canceled.

And finally, due to some epic voting and the crashing of multiple websites, the matches will now only be open for voting for 24 hours, rather than 40. So, now it's even more important to get the word out and the votes in quickly. 

Tod Hudson(seed #20)

Tod Hudson is from the Soul Screamer by Rachel Vincent. You can learn more about it here. And be on the lookout for a review of the series soon here at YA Sisterhood! Tod is represented by Rachel Clarke. You can reach her at any of the following places:

Blog: Fiktshun.com (But I'll be posting any tourney related posts on my blog annex Fiktshuns-ramblings.blogspot.com)

Twitter: @Fiktshun

Blog FB page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Fiktshun/167196403318584

Personality:

Tod Hudson may be a reaper, but he is anything but grim. And although he may look innocent, he is trouble. He is a reaper after all. Someone assigned to collect souls. Someone who takes a walk on the wild side and ventures into the Netherworld on occasion. And someone who is no stranger to the Hellions and Demons that call it home.

Now, he may not be your typical bad boy, I don’t know many reapers who are, but he is definitely not someone to bring home to meet the parents. Kaylee Cavanaugh’s Dad certainly doesn’t like him hanging around his daughter and they’re not even dating. Especially when he can just come and go as he pleases - any parents worst nightmare. And it seems to please him quite a bit to visit Kaylee. At night. Alone. In her room. Forever stuck at 17, Tod is an eternal boy.

But Tod has another side. And that one is charming, funny and sarcastic. He is mischievous and has one heck of a wicked grin for someone with such an angelic face. He likes to pop in at the most inconvenient times. And surprising Kaylee is one of his favorite things to do. Well... that and popping in on Kaylee and Nash when they don’t particularly want to be disturbed. Tod definitely has issues with boundaries.

The best thing about Tod isn’t his boyish charm or his sense of humor. If that were all Tod had going for him, he wouldn’t have made made my list of crush-worthy boys. It’s his loyalty. Tod is one fiercely loyal bean-sidhe turned reaper.

He will do anything in his power to protect those he cares about. It makes him brave and foolish and reckless to the point of stupidity at times, but his loyalty makes him completely swoon-worthy. What girl wouldn’t want a boy who would go to the ends of the earth to protect her, do whatever he can to make her happy, or cry for her when he can’t?

Tod quick facts: A total flirt, charming, mischievous, not one to play by the rules, funny, sarcastic, bad boy, loves a challenge, brave, reckless, chivalrous, vulnerable, loyal, self-sacrificing.

Looks:

Tod is definitely mighty fine to look at. He may not be one, but he looks like an angel. Blond curly hair, bright blue sparkling eyes, super sexy thick boy-lashes, perfect full lips, strong, square chin which sports a small goatee. He is total eye-candy.

I usually tend to go for the dark, brooding, dangerous types, but over the course of this series Tod has definitely caught my eye. I’m thinking he’s a stone cold fox. He will be forever young. As a reaper he will never look older than 17. And even though he may be a reaper he has his soul. Just stare into those bright blue eyes and you will get lost. And that’s not from some powers of Influence.

But it’s those kissable lips that are quick with a smile, always ready to quirk up into a lopsided grin, that make Tod the ultimate crush-worthy boy in the looks department. His eyes may be magnetic, but it’s those lips that would be tough to look away from.

Tod quick facts: Angelic, bright blue eyes, sexy smile, perfect, full oh-so-kissable lips, with a lower lip he loves to bite while thinking, thick lashes, pale blond, curly hair, face that expresses his emotions.

Talents:

Oh, Tod is one talented reaper. He can materialize wherever he wants, whenever he wants. And as he doesn’t need sleep he has a lot of free time on his hands to drop in, unannounced, on his friends and family. Whether they want him to or not.

This can come in handy when there’s trouble, but can be awkward when you don’t want company. And it makes for some quick travel options since he can take you along for the ride.

He can choose who he wants to see and hear him. And can appear to only some people and not others if he feels like it.

As a reaper he doesn’t need to eat, but he can taste and enjoy food. No problem with the pleasure sensors or taste buds in his mouth.

He doesn’t age, which practically makes him immortal. As he’s technically not alive, he can’t get older.

He also has the power to end a life and take possession of a soul. For some power-hungry reapers this can be a problem, but for one as good-hearted as Tod, this is nothing to worry about.

He can move between this world and the Netherworld. It may not seem such an important talent to me or you, but if you had to rescue someone’s soul from a demon who had them trapped, you’d want someone who could bring you in and out of that world as quickly as possible. Just sayin’.

A phenomenal kisser. That’s all I’ll say for right now, but for those in the know, you can back me up on that.

Tod quick facts: Instant teleportation, selective invisibility, ability to end a life and take a soul - yeah it’s grim, but it’s still pretty cool - no need to eat or sleep, ageless, awesome kisser and it’s not just because he has such perfect lips.

Special Attributes:

Since I’ve included most of Tod’s attributes in the personality, looks and talents departments, I thought I’d just give a few examples of why Tod is so full of awesome and why he deserves the title, “Hero.”

*His first assignment as a reaper he saved the life of a little girl that was on the list.

*He sacrificed his own life to save someone he loved and kept it a secret so that they wouldn’t have to feel guilty. (If that’s not totally swoon-worthy I don’t know what is!)

*He turned himself corporeal to punch Nash for what he did to Kaylee.

*He watched out for Kaylee’s friend Emma when she was in trouble.

*He went to the Netherworld to try and save the soul of his ex-girlfriend.

*He told Kaylee what she needed to hear about Nash and Sabine, even if it would make her hate him.

*He is frequently willing to put his “life” on the line for those he loves.

*And he is always ready to fight for what he wants.

Tod quick facts: Hero. Seriously, do I need to say more here? He’s a hero in every sense of the word.

What makes Tod better than Michael?

"So why is Tod Hudson better than Michael Weaver?

This is actually a difficult argument to make since I haven’t had a chance to meet Michael. I am certain that he’s swoon-worthy or he wouldn’t have been voted into the Tourney. But even if I had met Michael, I’m certain that Tod would still outrank him on my list of crush-worthy boys.

From what I understand, Michael doesn’t have any special abilities. He is a consultant for Hourglass and actually requires Emerson’s abilities to help him.

Tod has his own wicked cool powers and while he may work with others who have abilities, he does just fine on his own.

I’ve also heard that Michael is kind, smart, dark, with an olive complexion, and mysterious. These all sound like incredibly great qualities to have. Who doesn’t want someone who is kind and smart? And if you like them dark and mysterious then Michael fits that bill.

Well, Tod is kind. So kind that he would sacrifice himself for anyone he loves.

He’s smart. Smart enough to punch his brother for all the crap that he put Kaylee through.

He may not be dark. Tod is all about the light. His angelic features, blond hair and gorgeous blue eyes make this Reaper absolutely heavenly to look at. Dark can be good, but light can be even better.

Mysterious? Tod can be mysterious…when he wants to be. Who really knows what Tod’s up to during those hours when Kaylee or Nash are asleep? He might be hanging out in the Netherworld, stirring up trouble for demons. Tod does a lot of things in secret. Things that are almost always for someone else’s benefit. So yeah, Tod is a mystery.

Michael is also said to be a gentleman and “broody.” Well gentlemanly is always good. Broody, it depends. Brooding can be sexy, it can also be frustrating.

Tod is absolutely a gentleman. If you looked it up in the dictionary you’d probably see his picture right next to the definition. He’s kind of automatically a gentleman since he was willing to sacrifice himself for the ones he loves. Besides, Tod is always willing to help out Kaylee and Emma. And he’s always ready to step in when Kaylee is about to risk her virtue with Nash.

But why is Tod really better than Michael?

1. Because he’s Tod.

2. Because he’s not 1/3 of a love triangle.

3. Because that Reaper has been around a lot longer and has proven himself worthy time and time again over the course of the series and not once has he faltered.

4. Because he’s about to do a lot of somethings that are so totally amazing in the next book that he would knock Jace Wayland off his throne of awesomeness."

Anything else you'd like to add?

I'd like to make a final plea for Tod. Those who've only read the first book or two of the series may not have gotten the warm and fuzzies over him. There may not have been any insta-love connection. I know it wasn't like that for me and Tod. I was a Nash fan all the way...

...All the way through the middle of the second book in the series when that slow anger toward Nash began building.

For those who have read all four books in the series and both novellas you may have a little more love for Tod, but still might not be fully convinced that he is crush-worthy. But let me tell you that he so totally is! And if this tourney was just a few months later, after the release of If I Die, I wouldn't even have to do anything to convince you here and now.

But Tod made me smile, he made me cry, he made me breathless and made my heart stop. More than once. If that doesn't make him crush-worthy I don't know what would.

Thanks so much, and I know that Tod would love your vote!

Michael (Seed 5)

The smoldering Michael is from Myra McEntire's debut novel Hourglass. You can find out more about her and Hourglass by clicking her name on our side bar. Plus you can check out our Teaser Tuesday of Hourglass here. Michael is being rep'd by our own magnificent, honorary sister, Bethany.

Personality:
Are you a literate lady looking for the most delicious fictional crush since Mr. Darcy? Well, look no further, girls… Michael Weaver has arrived!

If you’d like a southern gentleman with an edge, Michael is the man for you. Chivalry, honor and charm
aren’t dead, and Michael’s got them—in spades. He’ll hold open doors and win over your family. He puts his friends and family first, and won’t make promises he can’t keep. He even tips well!

What’s more, he is THE most selfless guy in this entire tournament. If not dying on your dates is important to you, Michael is the way to go. Unlike so many of the other guys in this competition, he won’t even think about killing you! Always a plus. Not only that, but he can—and has—died for love. You’re in safe, strong, big hands with him!

But most importantly, Michael is genuinely loving. He makes the girl he loves feel like the most special person in the world and will, literally, go to any lengths to protect her.
Looks:

It’s probably a good thing that Michael is fictional, because if anyone this gorgeous were real, he’d have an army of stalkers on his hands. Throughout the book, he’s described as, “a prince too gorgeous to be walking around with peasants,” a dark angel, and an old-Hollywood, Cary Grant type.

Plus, he’s BUILT. And, if that doesn’t get you, what about the wickedly arched dark eyebrows, the olive skin, the defined cheekbones? The smell of citrus and clean laundry. The mellow, husky voice. And the mouth. The full, disarming mouth with a smile like “buttered biscuits and honey.”
Talents:

Want a man who is fluent in Italian? He’s got you covered. He can drive a stick. He can understand complex physics.

Oh yeah, and he can time travel. There’s that.
Special Attributes:

Now here’s where it gets interesting, ladies. He generates the most insane chemistry with Emerson that they blow out light bulbs. Literally. He can give a full-body buzz simply by holding hands. Let us imagine the possibilities of that for a second….

Finally, to top it all off: He READS! You know you love a literate man, and Michael’s got a bookshelf full of Byron, Vonnegut, Orson Scott Card and Kerouac. If you think reading is sexy, vote for Michael.

What makes Michael better than Tod?

Now, I'm only on the second book of the Soul Screamers series, but I can safetly say that there is no competition between Michael and Tod. 

My fellow advocate says that it takes a few books for Tod to grow on you. I hope this is the case, because right now I don't see his appeal as a crush-worthy candidate. Sure, he'd probably make a cool friend, but this isn't the "Summer Friend Tournament."

For one thing, he's dead. How much chemistry can you have with a dead guy? He never eats (so dinner dates are out), sleeps (forget about pillow talk), or ages (would you want to be with a 17 year old boy forever?). What's more, even his own brother doesn't seem to like him very much, and says that Tod never does anything unless it's for personal gain. 

Michael, on the other hand, doesn't have to grow on you. He is immediately appealing, and only gets better from there. And, it's always pleasant to know that you don't have to worry about dying around him.  

Anything else you'd like to add?

I’ll just leave you with this passage:

He pulled me closer, trailing his mouth along the line of my jaw and down my neck. I held on to his jacket more tightly, pulling him even closer.

“I’m ready to get out of here,” he murmured in my ear. “Get you someplace I can kiss you properly.”

“This isn’t properly?” I was shaking again. What was it about this boy that made me shake? “If not, can I handle properly?”

“I’ll do my best to make sure you can.” He kissed his way across my cheekbone to my lips, his hands sliding under my jacket, his fingers burning against the cotton of my T-shirt. I couldn’t help thinking about how his hands would feel on my bare skin. “Or that you can’t handle it. Whatever you want.”

VOTING IS NOW CLOSED!

YA Crush Tourney: Tucker vs Michael (Match #12) goes to Michael!

And the winner is.... MICHAEL!

Yesterday, because of the sheer volume of votes, we once again crashed a polling site. The only way to maintain fairness was to just redo this match completely. Because of now crashing 3 different poll sites, we have decided for the sake of our sanity and all of your guys sleep, to only allow 1 vote per computer plus only keep the polls open for 24 HOURS. This seems to be the only way to do this without taking the risk of having more rematches. Voting will open at 8am and close 24 hours later at 10am on Saturday morning. So call in all of your reinforcements for the next matches.

Before we get started, it's the same rules as usual. We've tried as much as possible to keep everything spoiler free, but to really show the best qualities of a character sometimes spoilers are necessary, so BEWARE!!! Also, feel free to write comments in the comments section about either character, but we will not tolerate rudeness. The moment it crosses over from logical argument to rudeness, your comment will be deleted and your vote cancelled. With all that said, let the voting begin!

Tucker Avery (Seed 21) 

Tucker is being defended by Amy D. the wonderfully, gorgeous, unearthy (like that) Tucker is from the amazing book by Cynthia Hand, Unearthy. You can can check out Baby Sister Brittany's review of the book here.

Personality:
Hold onto your hearts girls. Cynthia Hand's Unearthly gave life to the boy I thought I would marry (shhhh...don't tell my husband). Tucker Avery will get to know you down to your "real" hair color with his playful, teasing personality. He gets along with everyone and is self-assured enough to go stag-ish to prom (granted he comes home with the girls he wants). He wrote the book on charming from the way he tilts his hat to the way he says "ma'am." He is a family man. He loves and protects his sister and his family's land.

Looks:
Tucker will melt you from the inside out with his hazy blue eyes. If you can still manage to see after a kiss from him, you'll enjoy looking at his tall, tan, muscled body or even run your hands through his short golden brown hair (score one for brunettes). Your legs will buckle with the sight of his slightly stubbled jaw and dimple on his left cheek. He is a man that loves to smile and laugh...yum.

Talents:
Tucker is a man's man, but he softens while sharing these things with the girl he loves. He can pull you out of a ditch, backcountry skis, white water rafting, fly fishing, hiking, tour guide, swimming, and on the rodeo team. Honorable mention to dancing, whistling and being a cowboy poet. Every date with Tucker is about being and being together. No distractions. A kiss from Tucker can make a girl find glory.

Special Attributes:
Tucker is the hardest working boy in YA. He holds multiple jobs in order to help out his family and achieve his goals. He is popular not because he has money. He has a gift at putting people at ease. Tucker knows where the best huckleberries are and can think like a fish. Tucker is forthright and honest--can't stand lies. He is man enough to take three girls from the rodeo team to prom. Not only is he a knight in shining armor (on multiple occasions), but he is the best birthday present ever. Whether you are watching the sunrise or fishing, you know you have Tucker's undivided attention. You know you just want to lean into that chest.

Anything else you'd like to add?
He picks wildflowers for his love, making out under the stars is a favorite past time, makes you "forget to eat, float around in a daze, and bounce out of bed in the morning." He reads comic books, loves cheetos, and longs for a time when there were no fences.

He will love you for who you are--all of you.


Michael (Seed 5)

The smoldering Michael is from Myra McEntire's debut novel Hourglass. You can find out more about her and Hourglass by clicking her name on our side bar. Plus you can check out our Teaser Tuesday of Hourglass here. Michael is being rep'd by our own magnificent, honorary sister, Bethany.


Personality:
Are you a literate lady looking for the most delicious fictional crush since Mr. Darcy? Well, look no further, girls… Michael Weaver has arrived!

If you’d like a southern gentleman with an edge, Michael is the man for you. Chivalry, honor and charm
aren’t dead, and Michael’s got them—in spades. He’ll hold open doors and win over your family. He puts his friends and family first, and won’t make promises he can’t keep. He even tips well!

What’s more, he is THE most selfless guy in this entire tournament. If not dying on your dates is important to you, Michael is the way to go. Unlike so many of the other guys in this competition, he won’t even think about killing you! Always a plus. Not only that, but he can—and has—died for love. You’re in safe, strong, big hands with him!

But most importantly, Michael is genuinely loving. He makes the girl he loves feel like the most special person in the world and will, literally, go to any lengths to protect her.

Looks:

It’s probably a good thing that Michael is fictional, because if anyone this gorgeous were real, he’d have an army of stalkers on his hands. Throughout the book, he’s described as, “a prince too gorgeous to be walking around with peasants,” a dark angel, and an old-Hollywood, Cary Grant type.

Plus, he’s BUILT. And, if that doesn’t get you, what about the wickedly arched dark eyebrows, the olive skin, the defined cheekbones? The smell of citrus and clean laundry. The mellow, husky voice. And the mouth. The full, disarming mouth with a smile like “buttered biscuits and honey.”

Talents:

Want a man who is fluent in Italian? He’s got you covered. He can drive a stick. He can understand complex physics.

Oh yeah, and he can time travel. There’s that.

Special Attributes:

Now here’s where it gets interesting, ladies. He generates the most insane chemistry with Emerson that they blow out light bulbs. Literally. He can give a full-body buzz simply by holding hands. Let us imagine the possibilities of that for a second….

Finally, to top it all off: He READS! You know you love a literate man, and Michael’s got a bookshelf full of Byron, Vonnegut, Orson Scott Card and Kerouac. If you think reading is sexy, vote for Michael.

What makes Michael better than Tucker?
It's not that there's anything wrong with Tucker, but he just doesn't have the WOW factor that Michael does.

For instance, the two are like their cars: Tucker is a rusty blue truck, Michael is a sleek black convertible.

Tucker stalls in relationships. There's no initial attraction, and it takes months for him to establish any kind of relationship. With Michael, on the other hand, there is instant heat that takes off immediately. Zero to Sixty in eight seconds or less.

Anything else you'd like to add?

I’ll just leave you with this passage:

He pulled me closer, trailing his mouth along the line of my jaw and down my neck. I held on to his jacket more tightly, pulling him even closer.

“I’m ready to get out of here,” he murmured in my ear. “Get you someplace I can kiss you properly.”

“This isn’t properly?” I was shaking again. What was it about this boy that made me shake? “If not, can I handle properly?”

“I’ll do my best to make sure you can.” He kissed his way across my cheekbone to my lips, his hands sliding under my jacket, his fingers burning against the cotton of my T-shirt. I couldn’t help thinking about how his hands would feel on my bare skin. “Or that you can’t handle it. Whatever you want.”

*VOTING IS NOW CLOSED*

Check the Tournament tab at the top for info on future matches!

YA Crush Tourney: Jack vs Kaleb (Match #14) goes to Kaleb!

And the winner is... KALEB!

As most of you know, yesterday our voting polls crashed for a 3rd time. Because of this, we are having a rematch for one of the matches from yesterday. To prevent this from happening again, polls will only be open for 24 hours. We, of course did not want to do this, but we see no other way if we want to keep this fair and prevent rematches. The polls will close at 10am on Saturday morning 24 hours later.

Before we get started, it's the same rules as usual. We've tried as much as possible to keep everything spoiler free, but to really show the best qualities of a character sometimes spoilers are necessary, so BEWARE!!! Also, feel free to write comments in the comments section about either character, but we will not tolerate rudeness. The moment it crosses over from logical argument to rudeness, your comment will be deleted and your vote cancelled. With all that said, let the voting begin!

Jack (Seed 23)
The gorgeous Jack is from Melissa de la Cruz's popular Blue Bloods series. For more information on this series check it our here. Jack is rep'd by the awesome Amanda! You can follow her on twitter @apedulla and her blog at http://lovesbooksreviews.blogspot.com/.

Personality:

 He has a calm and collective personality but easily shows violent tendencies because of his character (i.e Angel of Destruction). He shows a very tender and caring side towards Allegra Van Alen (Gabrielle, The Uncorrupted) and later to her daughter, Schuyler Van Alen. He frequently showers them with his affection, often composing poems or songs for Allegra and her previous incarnation and romantic dinner dates with Schuyler. When overcome with Abbadon's personality, he is often violent especially with his twin, Mimi. Despite this, he is loyal to his friends and family and tries his best to help them. He is also easy to fall in love with.  He is wealthy and strong. He is every girls dream, with his personality. Even if he gets angry, protective, writes poems, you got a love a man who could write you a love poem!  From the very first pages mentioning him in Blue Bloods, you know he is the catch of the year !! Sounds Great to me... Can I marry him?

Looks:

He is described by many of the female population as "painfully handsome" with the usual: platinum blond hair, graceful, athletic, etc... He has a calm and collective personality but easily shows violent tendencies because of his character (i.e Angel of Destruction).

"The two of them [Mimi and Jack] shared the same pale, platinum blond hair, the same creamy, translucent skin, the same hooded green eyes, and the same long, slender limbs."

I could just picture him, the way Melissa de la Cruz describes him. HOT, HOT and and burning Hot, (well he was in Hell) One look, you will fall in love with this beautiful HOT Blue Blood. I even think he's hotter than Edward, even though I loved the Twilight Series, nobody, I mean nobody will compare to Jack Force! Plus, I like green eyes on a boy.

Talents:

He can communicate with other Blue Bloods through their minds. Great Kisser, Protects the people he loves.  Plus I do think is is a great kisser because Schuyler in Book two: Masquerade describes this kiss as one she can't forget. But since they had masks, she didn't find this out until the next book Revelations

"Jack Force is captain of the lacrosse team; lead in every school play (Konstantin inThe Seagull and Melchior in Spring Awakening);

Jack performs at a stellar academic and athletic level. He is a natural leader to his peers, and only in comparison to his more loquacious twin does he come across as reticent and taciturn. Those who know him well describe him as funny and charming, and never to be found without a book in his hand. Jack is a frequent visitor to the Repository library"

- From Keys to the Repository

Special Attributes:

His number one attribute would be his smarts. In Revelations, a way of communicating to Schuyler was through literature. He used books, numbers, where she is to meet him. I would also believe he is also a great to make out with. When reading all of the series so far, the best parts are with Jack and Schuyler, and how the relationship would last. He really cares about her, and he tries to hide his anger but he can't. He would risk his life to save and be with Schuyler. I think that he's the man of my dreams, don't you ? Plus if am in trouble he can sense it!

Why is her better than his competitor?

Jack is the better competitor because he is :

A vampire (Blue Blood), He is part of the Committee for the Blue Bloods, has a gentle side, Fell in love with Schuyler (it is forbidden), Lives in the beautiful City of New York

Before he was Jack Force he was Abbadon, Angel of Destruction, Twin Angel of the Apocalypse, the Unlikely, Destroyer of Worlds, Broke his Bond with Mimi, so follow his one true love Schuyler

Was nicknamed 'Blackjack' in childhood because of his tantrums. It was later shortened to 'Jack' in adolescence.  He smokes.  He knows he's destined to stay with Mimi but he can't help to stray to Schuyler Van Alen, even though he falls in love with her. Even if he smokes, he can always stop, but it gives him the bad boy vibe which every girl goes for.

He is better than any of these other competitors because of his loyalty, love and compassion

Anything else you'd like to add?

SUPER HOT, BLOND, LOVER, TRAVELER.

His full name is Benjamen Force.

Occupation: Student, Committee Member

Family members: Madeleine(Mimi) Force, Charles Force and Trinity Force

If you are interested in any other information read Melissa de la Cruz's Keys to the Repository, It tells you a lot of background info about the characters. Thanks to Melissa for creating this magnificent character we all love and adore. I can't wait to read Lost In Time:) if you haven't read the series, I recommend you do, you will want to read them all, because the plot is amazing

Vote for Jack Force................... Every Girls Dream Boy+Vampire

Kaleb (Seed 7)

The steamy Kaleb is from Myra McEntire's Hourglass.  You can find out more about Myra and her Hourglass series by clicking on her name in the side bar of this blog.   You can also check our Teaser Tuesday for Hourglass.  Kaleb is being represented by Bethany.  Go follow her on twitter @BethanyeLarson and check out her blog, http://www.bookishbethie.blogspot.com/.

Personality:

Kaleb is the quintessential bad boy—reckless, devilishly charming, witty, physically intimidating, complex. However, his wit and charm and entire bad boy persona are only fronts (not that he isn't holy-hell-I-would-throw-myself-at-him-if-he-said-that-to-me charming ANYWAY, he just really plays it up) to hide the fact that he's really a big softy. Well, that and the fact that there is some serious family drama in his life. Which means that he's reckless, devilishly charming, physically intimidating, complex, and wounded, which is better known as the exact combination that makes girls melt and go nuts for a guy. 

Looks:

Kaleb is physically intimidating—tall, muscular (the incredible Myra McEntire describes his abs as "the most defined abs I've ever seen"), tattooed (three of them. At least, three that we know of.) and pierced (ears), with short black hair, and violet-blue eyes. If that isn't enough a visual, McEntire compares him to a sexy pirate. Yes, PLEASE. 

Talents:

In the Hourglass world, Kaleb is an empath, a person who is supernaturally in tune with other people's emotions. But other than his ability to read emotions and empathize like a champ, he also excels at drinking a lot and still being alive the next day, coming up with fantastically funny and apt nicknames for people, swimming, and making you feel all hot and bothered. 

Special Attributes:

Kaleb abs are an eight-pack, y'all. Just think about running your hands over it. Mhmmmm.

Additionally, have I mentioned that he is an EMPATH? Any time you were feeling sad or lonely or frustrated or angry, Kaleb would not only understand what you were going through, but would know EXACTLY the right things to say and do to make it better. Basically, he's the perfect man. 

Why is Kaleb better than Jack?

Not only is Kaleb gorgeous and funny and dangerous-seeming, he's also genuine. If you're lucky enough to break through his hard-ass shell and get to the real Kaleb, he's basically a big, warm, caring guy who is also gorgeous and charming and could absolutely defend you if you needed him to. 

And, oh yeah, that empath thing. And the eight-pack. Think about it. 

Anything else you would like to add?

You know you want to vote for Kaleb. So, do it. Or else. *glares you into submission*

*VOTING IS NOW CLOSED*

Check the Tournament tab at the top for info on future matches!