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Throw-Back Thursday: Ranking the top 5 episodes of “Charmed.”

It’s Throw-Back Thursday TV Fans! For today, I am going to be counting down the top 5 episodes from Charmed. Out of the 178 episodes of the series, it was extremely difficult to narrow this list down to just 5 episodes. Over my many re-watches of the show, these episodes have stood the test of time. As I re-watch the series each time, I find myself looking forward to them because they truly make an impact with me. There have been different points in my life where many episodes of Charmed have gotten me through some really tough times and that just goes to show you how amazing this show is.

It’s not just about witchcraft and magic. It’s about family, loyalty, and how to deal with the everyday demons in our lives, not just the supernatural. The entire series is filled with great episodes, all connecting to create a believable story and providing us with some great entertainment, while keeping our favorite characters real, empathetic, funny, and significant in the process. It’s hard not to feel like part of the Halliwell family when you invest so much time watching these powerful and amazing women. These stand-out episodes below take it a step further, however; surpassing our expectations as fans and surprising us with unforgettable moments. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not yet watched the series.

My top 5 episodes from Charmed are:

“From Fear to Eternity.” (Season 1, episode 13)

“Prue. Prue. You must face your fears, Prue. You must trust in the greatest of all powers. Love.” (Patty Halliwell)

So for me this episode has to be the one that hooked me onto Charmed for good. This episode was in the middle of the first season and really elevated the show to an entirely new level. It’s Friday the 13^th and we are first introduced to one of the greatest villains on the show, Barbas, the Demon of Fear. I have to say that it was very clever to have episode 13 be the Friday the 13^th one, which really made this episode that much more haunting. The Demon of Fear has to murder 13 witches before midnight so that he can be freed, which is alarming enough for those of you who are superstitious.

What makes Barbas so frightening is that he brings a victim’s greatest fear to the surface. The victim appears to die from a heart attack and their hair turns bright white from fright, which gets the police involved, but there is something so bone-chilling about this. Just imagining this happening makes my skin crawl, which is why Barbas was such a genius villain and so difficult for the sisters to face. This episode stood out to me as well because the sisters could not just rely on their magical powers to defeat him. Phoebe is held captive by him and he lures Prue to the scene to get two witches for the price of one. We learn in the episode that Prue is very fearful of drowning, as Barbas initially attacks her in the shower.

When Prue is in the pool, the spirit of her mother, Patty appears before her and tells her to trust in the power of love. Prue is able to overcome her fear, which banishes Barbas. It took Prue conquering her inner demons to be able to defeat this one and it finally allows her to open up to her sisters and let them into her heart, while still having plenty of room to remember and love her mother.

“Chick Flick.” (Season 2, episode 18)

“You’re my hero Billy.”

“And I think you’re swell, Sally Mae.”

My top 5 list would not be complete without including “Chick Flick.” I typically refer to this episode as “Kill It Before It Dies,” which is the old movie that Phoebe is obsessed with, currently playing down at the local theater. In this episode, the Demon of Illusion flees from the Charmed ones and hides right in the movie. The demon is not afraid to change the script and even recruits other psycho killers from different movies to attack the sisters. Phoebe’s dream man, Billy, comes out of the movie and is still in black-and-white. Phoebe is beyond thrilled and bonds with Billy. I mean how many times have we thought about hanging out with one of our favorite characters? Phoebe actually gets to do this which is beyond cool.

The sisters team up with Billy to fight the Demon of Illusion, but not before they get trapped in the film. The Demon of Illusion explains that if they are stuck in there when the movie ends, they will never get out. Luckily, Prue is quite the photographer and is able to rewind the film and vanquish the Demon of Illusion by leaving his frame under the light for too long. Phoebe is forced to say goodbye to Billy, but is thrilled when she gets her own copy of the movie. “Kill It Before it Dies” actually appears in three episodes of Charmed and even Cole tries to give her a message through the movie. I mean you can’t knock him for lack of effort.

Either way, this episode is absolutely hilarious and fun. If you’re having a bad day, I strongly recommend you grab your popcorn and watch this one. And whatever you do…don’t hide from a psycho killer in the shower like poor Piper.

“The Seven Year Witch.” (Season 7, episode 16)

“Leo and Piper’s love, it’s epic, it’s massive. It’s Romeo and Juliet, Anthony and Cleopatra, Brad and Jennifer.” (Drake)

There are a few reasons why I absolutely adore this episode. First off, my absolute favorite character, Cole Turner is back. Well not back to the land of the living, but he does act as a sort of mentor and guide for Piper who is currently trapped in limbo. Meanwhile, the elders decide to test Leo and strip him of his memory and leave him out on an abandoned highway so that he can choose his path once and for all. The path is not so clear-cut, however; as the elders do try to manipulate him by focusing on his love to help others. Cole finally gets through to Piper and she realizes that she must let go and die and call out to Leo in order to reach him and the plan is a success. While Drake should have probably picked couples in history that actually ended up together…or ended up surviving, the intent is there.

When I think about epic couples, Piper and Leo always come to mind and it’s because of moments like this. Piper and Leo’s love transcends everything else around them and they are able to fight for each other and support each other through it all. At the end of the episode, Drake’s life ends at midnight when he says, “Alas…pumpkin time.” Fans learn that Cole sent him there to help Phoebe believe in love again, which is absolutely swoon-worthy. Even though Cole can’t be with Phoebe, her happiness is all that keeps him going in the other plane and he will forever love her. Phoebe even feels his presence in the house, which proves that they are still connected on some level. Now that’s romantic.

“Centennial Charmed.” (Season 5, episode 12)

“We’ve been through so much together…haven’t we? Our love’s so strong, nothing can destroy it, not even this. We’re meant to be together.” (Cole)

So even though Phoebe says, “I don’t think so,” it’s hard to fully believe this can be true. I absolutely believe that Phoebe and Cole were meant to be together, but unlike Piper and Leo, they are unable to defeat everything that gets in their way. Cole’s path toward self-destruction is beyond difficult to control and Phoebe will always choose her family over her love for him simply because she is selfless. It’s a sacrifice and something that will always be with her, but it’s hard to agree that their love was not meant to be. While I do think that her love with Coop later on in the series is a healthy and stable relationship for her, it comes as a close second to her passionate and messy romance with Cole. This episode is the 100^th episode of the show and I think that they really hit home with it. Cole has been vanquished before, but he always finds some way back. However, this time is different.

Cole reveals that it is his birthday but all he wants is a chance at love and happiness, which is heart-breaking and empathetic. The Avatars approach Cole, which prove to be a greater threat later down the road with Leo, and Cole decides to use his new powers to cast a spell to alter reality so that he can win Phoebe back. Only this has unforeseen consequences, as Phoebe does not love him in this reality anymore than she does now. Cole’s plan back-fires when Paige sneezes and orbs out when the spell is cast, as he had anticipated her being dead in this reality. Paige is able to convince Piper to help her, which is no easy task and the power of 3 is alive again. Cole is not indestructible in this reality and when he is vanquished, it’s for good this time. The end of the episode is bitter sweet, as Cole’s place is found empty and abandoned, revealing that he’s not coming back anytime soon.

Paige wishes him a happy birthday before she exits, which always brings me to tears. The sisters did not want to vanquish Cole, but he made it impossible for them to live in a world with him. Perhaps his path could have been different or perhaps it would end just the same, but it’s clear that he impacted more than just Phoebe, which makes his departure from the show that much more heart-breaking.

Some honorable mentions before revealing my number one episode of Charmed are:

“The Wendigo”
“Is There a Woogy in the House?”
“Déjà Vu All Over Again”
“P3 H20”
“Ms. Hellfire”
“Awakened”
“The Good, The Bad, and the Cursed”
“Just Harried”
“All Hell Breaks Loose”
“Brain Drain”
“A Paige from the Past”
“Charmed and Dangerous”
“Marry-Go-Round”
“Long Live the Queen”
“The Day the Magic Died”
“Sense and Sense Ability”
“Witchstock”
“The Courtship of Wyatt’s Father”
“Hyde School Reunion”
“Witch Wars”
“Charmageddon”
“Show Ghouls”
“The Torn Identity”
“Kill Billy: Volume 2”

“Forever Charmed.” (Season 8, episode 22)

“And although we certainly had our struggles and heart aches over the years we’re a family of survivors and we always will be. Which is why we’ve truly been Charmed.” (Piper Halliwell)

So I absolutely have to give the series finale of the show the number one spot. Mostly because it truly sums up everything the way I would have liked. I would say that the only thing missing was the presence of Prue but they did mention her. The episode focuses on Piper using Coop’s ring to travel through time to save her sisters, which allows some of our favorite characters from the past and future to get involved to help save the day. When the threat is over, we get a glimpse into the future of the lives of our favorite Halliwell sisters and everything is as it should be. Piper’s words to her future grand-daughter remind us what the show is all about. While the Halliwell sisters are powerful witches, they are much more than that.

They are survivors and they are a family that sticks together no matter what. It’s hard not to fall in love with this show and every time I watch the series finale, it inspires hope and love. While it’s always hard to say goodbye to the Charmed ones, you can always start the series over again, but knowing that they obtained the future that they deserved provides us with closure and satisfaction. “The power of 3 will set us free!”

I hope you enjoyed the list and please feel free to post some of your own favorite episodes from Charmed below. Thanks so much for reading and happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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I am so excited to announce that my book, The Search for Alice, is now available! If you enjoy fairy-tale retellings, paranormal romance, horror, and mystery, then this might be the book for you or someone you know! Thank you for taking the time to check it out and I appreciate any feedback as well. I hope you enjoy!

When Kallie Bennett, a jaded teenage girl plagued by her alcoholic mother and her peers molded out of sheer bubble gum perfection, chases after Alice in Wonderland herself, she ends up lost in her own version of Wonderland, which forces her to face her utmost fears and introduces her to familiar characters with a dark twist. Among these characters is Ches, a gorgeous vampire with a conflicted conscience, who becomes Kallie’s guide and blossoming love interest. She also crosses paths with Queen Hartley, a manipulative witch who has the power to strip away one’s memories and imagination, which brings a bone chilling new meaning to “off with their heads.” In The Search for Alice, Kallie starts to realize that her Wonderland is just as frightening as her own reality and that she cannot always run away from her problems. She must figure out a way to defeat Queen Hartley and return home before it is too late, but she soon learns that escaping Wonderland means leaving Ches behind forever.

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Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice is available here!

The Search for Alice is available here!

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Once Upon a Time” season 7 episode 15: “Operation Bromance”

After watching ABC’s Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 15 last night, it’s important to remember that even if you have made mistakes all throughout your life, it’s never too late to do something good to help tip the scale. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet. In last night’s episode, “Sisterhood,” we learn about how Ivy/Drizella joined the coven and how she crossed paths with another fairy-tale favorite, Gretel. Meanwhile, Regina and Lucy take a break from “Operation Hyacinth” to bring “Operation Bromance” into the mix to help cheer up Henry at “Flynn’s Arcade,” straight out of the film, Tron. Doctor Facilier continues to work on earning the trust of those around him, but not without making a dangerous enemy in the process and the masked killer is finally revealed. My top 5 moments from Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 15 are:

“Your clandestine boyfriend…when were you going to tell me about this?”

After learning that Doctor Facilier is after the Dark One’s dagger, Regina needed to decide whether or not to involve Rumpel. She does tell him what’s going on, but it’s clear that Rumpel is not pleased that she waited so long. After all, Rumpel always knows more about keeping secrets than anyone else. Rumpel gets a lead on Anastasia and explains to Regina that they need to find her before Ivy does to prevent her power from being unleashed into the wrong hands. Even though Doctor Facilier is working very hard to win over the trust of Regina, Rumpel trusts him about as far as he can throw him. The two come face to face and a new rivalry has emerged: Rumpel vs Facilier, who will win?

“Operation Bromance is a go.”

Lucy confides in Regina that she feels awful about keeping her mother and father apart, but Regina assures her that she is doing the right thing until they can figure out a way to break the curse without harming Henry. While Jacinda has Lucy to cheer her up, Lucy is worried about her father, Henry. Thus creating, “Operation Bromance.” Back in the world prior to the curse, Regina explains that Henry’s two best friends were Nook/Rogers and Jack/Nick. Lucy strategically texts them all to get them down to “Flynn’s Arcade” in an effort to provide Henry with some much needed fun. Henry is not initially pleased saying, “she literally texted me into the friend zone,” but Lucy has good intentions. After a while, Henry begins to relax and have a good time with his friends, making “Operation Bromance” a success, until he makes wagers about who will walk through the door next.

“The next girl who walks through the door, I’m going to ask her out.”

In walks Jacinda, as if straight out of a cheesy romantic comedy flick that makes you cry even though you’ll never admit it. The lighting is just right, her hair has just the right amount of bounce, and she smiles at Henry so brilliantly that you can practically see stars in their eyes. Fate has brought these two crazy kids together again and the begin talking about odds and chances, proving that you make your own luck, but sometimes destiny has a funny way of not letting go until nature runs the right course. While it’s great to see this moment between Jacinda and Henry, it’s dangerous for them to be together until Regina and Lucy can break the curse. But will they be too late?

“I guess you underestimated the power of sisterhood.”

Just as Ivy/Drizella has announced that she will make amends and do good, temptation comes her way several times throughout the episode, making her choices that much more important. She initially turns down Gothel’s deal and takes a stand against her, refusing to make the same mistake she did when she killed Gretel to join the coven. Even though Ivy/Drizella is standing alone, she needs to stay strong in order to survive. However, this becomes difficult when the killer targets her next. Luckily, her pepper spray and stiletto heel provide just the right amount of back-up to get away, but Ivy/Drizella is clearly feeling vulnerable now that she knows her life is in immediate danger. With perfect timing, Doctor Facilier approaches her and offers her up a deal. He explains that she can use a magic bean to escape to another realm, but she will need to sacrifice her sister, Anastasia to do so. Doctor Facilier tries to manipulate her decision by explaining that Ana will die either way, but at least she can survive in one outcome. Ivy/Drizella is able to bring Anastasia to her with the help of a lighted lantern but makes the horrible decision to choose herself over her sister. The tables turn quickly, however; as Gothel wakes Anastasia up and puts sister against sister. Ivy/Drizella has made numerous mistakes just like her mother, Victoria and now she has one final chance to do something right. She drops her weapon and the two sisters choose their bond over revenge, spoiling Gothel’s plan. It took you long enough Ivy/Drizella, but we’re happy to see you finally get it right.

Intentions are revealed.

Even though Ivy/Drizella has left this realm with her sister, she did not have the key to breaking Henry’s curse, which leaves Regina in the same mess she was in before. Doctor Facilier approaches her and explains that he merely left the two sisters so they could find each other and tapped into Ana’s magic when they re-formed their bond. Regina is still skeptical at this point of Doctor Facilier’s motives, but he gives her the magic as a gift so that she can use it to find a way to save her son. Regina tries not to let her feelings get in the way as she asks what the price is of accepting this gift. Doctor Facilier charmingly explains that “the only price is your smile,” but it seems a little bit too cliché if you ask me. While Doctor Facilier may have Regina fooled for now, Rumpel is not about to let him just take his dagger. While all of this is going on, the masked killer is finally revealed to be…..Jack/Nick. But why? What does he have to gain here? Who will he target next? Stay tuned to find out!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Once Upon a Time below. Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Once Upon a Time” season 7 episode 12: “H Town”

After watching ABC’s Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 12 last night, I wish I could get the opportunity to listen in on Henry’s full podcast, “H Town.” While he carefully unravels a mystery for his listeners, he is spot on when he asks the relevant question: “what could possibly happen next?” When one door closes on OUAT, fans know that several more are about to open, bringing new faces to town and dangerous enemies as well. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet. In last night’s episode, “A Taste of the Heights,” we finally learn more about Sabine/Tiana’s past, which introduces us to new characters like Doctor Facilier and Prince Naveen. Meanwhile, Rumpel finally throws his hat in the ring to uncover the mystery behind Lucy’s doctor’s death, Henry finds out about the mix tape Jacinda made him, and Regina’s jaded past catches up to her. My top 5 moments from Once Upon a Time season 7 episode 12 are:

Welcome back Rumpel!

So even though Rumpel has been in most of the episodes this season, it seems like he has been taking a back seat to the drama, which seems uncharacteristic and suspicious. Well that’s all about to change and it’s about time. Rumpel begins investigating the death of Lucy’s doctor and doesn’t believe for one second that it is pure coincidence that she died at the exact moment that Victoria did. He loops in Hook or “Nook” and explains that the lock of hair could mean that there is an evil in town extending past Eloise/Mother Gothel. Our two favorite detectives interview Hilda who runs a bakery. What’s her best seller? Gingerbread of course, which Rumpel points out, is really out of season. Hilda is blind and is clearly the witch from Hansel and Gretel. While initially it seems like she might know more than she is letting on, she is then attacked and a lock of her hair goes missing as well. Is this the work of Doctor Facilier? Seems likely when we think about voodoo magic, but we know that Rumpel and Nook are on the case.

“Food Truck Queen of the Heights.”

So I was thrilled that we finally got the opportunity in this episode to really get a glimpse at Sabine/Tiana’s back story. It really was perfect timing since Dr. Facilier and Prince Naveen have also conveniently shown up in town, now that Victoria is dead. While Tiana/Sabine recognizes that she is a perfectionist, she’s used to putting on a “one woman show,” as Naveen/Drew reminds her. Tiana always puts her people first in her past and tries to do what is right. In her present, she is quite nervous about her food truck debut and is heartbroken when the cop tells her she can’t debut at the event because she is missing her safety permit. While she initially blames Naveen/Drew, he does the right thing to win her trust and gives her his own safety permit. Swoon! While this seems to be bringing these two back together again, Doctor Facilier/Mr. Samdi shows up and tells Naveen that he did a good job winning her trust. Is Naveen/Drew really out for himself or will he do the right thing and be true to Tiana/Sabine?

“The dark one in denim. How quaint.”

Zelena was absolutely hilarious in this moment and I couldn’t help chuckling myself. While Rumpel may not have the best fashion sense, he is vital to bringing down the new threat in the Heights. When Rumpel approaches Regina and Zelena, Regina is initially angry because she tried to bring Rumpel into the fold much earlier. However, she recognizes that he might be the key to them saving Henry. They put two and two together and realize that someone is killing witches. This means that the threat is nowhere near over and it also means that Regina and Zelena are in danger themselves. Will they be able to stop this new threat before it’s too late?

“Word on the street is you made me a mix tape.”

While I can’t really buy Henry using the phrase, “word on the street,” this moment is absolutely adorable between him and Jacinda. Lucy is now awake and it seems like Henry and Jacinda’s romance can finally begin or begin again. Lucy is beyond excited and they invite Henry over for a game night. Lucy confides to Henry that it’s all real and that her grandmother, Victoria showed her the book. While she doesn’t know where the book is now, she is convinced that true’s love kiss will break the curse. However, Lucy finds a missing page of the book which reveals the truth that the kiss will end Henry’s life. She quickly intervenes just in the nick of time and stops the kiss from happening. Now that Lucy knows the truth, who will she turn to for help? Will Henry and Jacinda ever be able to get their happily ever after?

Regina’s past is revealed.

While it seems apparent that Doctor Facilier could be the evil threat everyone is talking about, I was shocked to learn that Regina had a romantic past with him. At the end of the episode, Regina pays him a visit and says, “You think you can just waltz into my town and pretend you’re cursed.” She asks him what he is here for, which is something we are all wondering, but Doctor Facilier does not appear to be intimidated by his former flame, Regina. Big mistake Doctor Facilier. If there is anything I know for sure, it’s that you don’t mess with Regina Mills!

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Once Upon a Time below. Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

You can now follow me on Twitter as well! https://twitter.com/TV_Fanatic_Girl

Ranking the top 5 moments from “Riverdale” season 2 episode 14: “The Last House on the Left”

Happy Thursday TV fans! After watching the CW’s Riverdale season 2 episode 14 last night, I am left with Mr. Lodge’s words of wisdom: “you never ever hesitate” when it comes to protecting the ones you love. While his words hold true for Archie especially, it’s often difficult for some of our other favorite characters to let their walls down and open up to one another, especially if they have a “ponytail and a secret.” A dangerous combination for sure of sweetness and scandal, but what happens when we finally let others into our inner most thoughts? Can we really trust them or are we in for a dangerous road of lies and deception? Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch yet. In last night’s episode, “Chapter Twenty-Seven: The Hills Have Eyes,” Veronica, Archie, Betty, and Jughead are off to a weekend getaway at Veroncia’s family cabin on the lake, which leads to an eventful night where buried secrets reach the surface and dangerous threats lurk behind the corner. Meanwhile, Cheryl deals with her own feelings of insecurity and leans on an unexpected new friend, Josie learns the truth about her mother, and Jughead gets a weird vibe from Chic. My top 5 moments from Riverdale season 2 episode 14 are:

Weekend getaway.

Veronica is absolutely thrilled when her father suggests that she go to their family cabin for a relaxing weekend with her boyfriend and friends. However, what Veronica doesn’t know is that her father, Mr. Lodge is trying to keep her away from Riverdale, as he begins some important business transactions. Mr. Lodge does fill Archie in on the plan and lets him know that his right hand man, Andre will be there in case anything goes wrong. Mr. Lodge is trusting Archie not to spill the beans to Veronica, which shows that Archie really has passed the test of loyalty with flying colors. Is he up for lying to Veronica to win Mr. Lodge’s approval, however? Our favorite couple, Bughead happily joins in on the fun and poor Cheryl is left out, as they aren’t really looking for a fifth wheel to spoil the weekend. It seems like romance and relaxation is in the air, but not for long, as Mr. Lodge’s plan backfires when Veronica catches Archie talking to Andre in the woods. Veronica is clearly hurt and angered by this betrayal, expecting much more from her boyfriend and father.

Josie learns about her mother’s relationship with Sheriff Keller.

After the Lodge family threatened to expose Mayor McCoy, she needed to make quick and sudden moves to protect her reputation and her family. She comes clean to her daughter, Josie about her relationship with Kevin’s father, Sheriff Keller and gently explains that she will be getting a divorce. Josie is completely crushed by this news and feels hurt and betrayed by her mother’s actions. Not thinking clearly about consequences, Josie shares the news with Kevin who doesn’t know anything about his father’s affair. Josie’s mother is upset by Josie’s cruelty as it was not her news to spread, but they come to an understanding when Josie reveals how hurt she was by this revelation. At the end of the episode, the four sit down at Pop’s diner and it looks like they will be able to get through this after all, with some heartache along the way for sure, but at least it’s all out in the open now.

Jalapeno margaritas and hot tubs.

Veronica realizes that their weekend getaway will need some spicing up, especially after some dangerous secrets are revealed. She whips up a batch of her margaritas and suggests “step 1: clothes off, swimsuits on.” While it seems like this love rhombus can relax somewhat, Veronica suggests that her and Jughead kiss to “level the playing field.” While Archie and Betty are clearly not thrilled with this idea, they sit by quietly and let it happen because they do still feel guilty about their own secret kiss. Even though Betty initially kept the kiss from Jughead, he is willing to forgive her and explains that he’s “not intimidated by a black hood prompted kiss.” Betty shows her gratitude later on by bringing out her favorite black wig and her sexy side as a distraction, leading to some “aggressive hand holding” as Veronica would say. While it seems like Bughead is ok for now, will the couple be able to survive more secrets and betrayal? After all, Jughead still doesn’t know about Betty’s new and dangerous obsession with “webcamming.”

“Cheryl Bombshell.”

Cheryl is clearly disappointed and feeling left out when she is not invited along to the weekend getaway and is desperately trying to avoid her own home that her mother has “turned into a sex playground.” While Cheryl makes some rash decisions as a result of this, it’s hard not to feel sympathetic towards her. Cheryl calls Jughead and reveals the truth about Betty’s kiss with Archie that she thought was “like with tongue serious,” desperately trying to spoil their weekend since she is hurt. Toni walks in on this and calls her out on it, but Cheryl puts her guard up immediately and reminds her exactly who she is: “Hi I’m Cheryl Blossom, aka Cheryl Bombshell which means I need no reasons. Feel free to tremble.” Toni is not scared off by this, however; and continues to reach out to her, recognizing that she is in pain and in need of a friend. After seeing Cheryl alone at the movies, Toni offers to sit with her. Cheryl later admits to Toni that she “never cries at movies because real life is tragic enough.” In this moment, Cheryl finally lets her guard down, revealing her vulnerability and past secrets to Toni. Toni sympathetically listens to her and a budding friendship or relationship is forming at this point for sure. In a beautiful moment, Toni simply tells Cheryl: “you’re not loveless. You’re not deviant. You’re sensational.” Toni’s uncomplicated honesty is getting through to Cheryl and it looks like their relationship will grow even further based on the previews revealed for next week’s episode. Will Cheryl’s mother come between their relationship, however?

“It really was the last house on the left.”

While I initially caught the film reference from Jughead, I never guessed that this comparison would actually not be far off by the end of the episode. Tensions begin to run high when Archie, Veronica, Betty, and Jughead learn that Mr. Lodge has bought Sunnyside Trailer Park, clearing the debt and evictions of everyone who lives there along with the Riverdale Register. Jughead initially jumps to the conclusion that Mr. Lodge is buying their silence along with the free press in this action and underlying animosity comes screeching to the surface, as this puts a clear divide between Archie and Veronica and Betty and Jughead. This argument is put on hold, however; when armed robbers break into the cabin, putting their lives in immediate danger. Veronica doesn’t lose her cool and carefully presses the panic button when she reaches for her purse, signaling to Andre and the rest of her father’s security company that they are in desperate need of some assistance. The robbers run off, but not before grabbing Veronica’s necklace, which prompts Archie to irrationally run after them. Andre lets him know that he’ll take it from there and Archie walks away, but not before hearing a deafening gun shot that lets him know the threat is over for good. While Archie clearly has mixed feelings about what happened because of his moral compass, Mr. Lodge reminds him that “you never ever hesitate,” which causes the memories of the Black Hood to come flooding back, invading his conscience and pulling at his unresolved guilt. Will Archie be able to come to terms with what happened? It looks like he will need to put his own feelings on hold for now, while Mr. Lodge continues to make strategic moves in Riverdale. Of course this begs the question, what is his end game in all of this?

I hope you enjoyed the list and feel free to post your own thoughts and theories on Riverdale below. Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

You can now follow me on Twitter as well! https://twitter.com/TV_Fanatic_Girl

Ranking my top 5 One True Pairings on Television: Ships that will make you Swoon

Happy Valentine’s Day TV fans! When it comes to defining what makes a OTP (one true pairing) on television, what comes to mind? Is it the passionate and fiery moments between these two characters or is it more about an everlasting love that stands the test of time? Whether it involves sacrifice and heartbreak or compromise and understanding, there are some couples on television who truly encompass the essence of love.

It’s rare to find that happy ending that we read about in fairy-tales, but these OTPs are not for lack of trying. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not gotten a chance to watch any of these series yet. Please also note that sitcoms were not included for today’s list. My top 5 One True Pairings on television are:

Veronica & Logan from Veronica Mars.

Logan: “I thought our story was epic, you know you and me?”

Veronica: “Epic how?”

Logan: “Spanning years and continents. Lives ruined, bloodshed. EPIC…”

Although Veronica Mars only lasted for three seasons, it still gave fans plenty of time to ship Veronica and Logan. While the beginning of the series focuses on her feelings for her former love, Duncan, Veronica also seems to initially despise Logan. On the surface, Logan is selfish and cruel, refusing to apologize for his actions. When Veronica and Logan team up later on in season one, you cannot deny the sparks flying between these two. Logan lets his guard down for Veronica and they fall in love with each other.

These two do not ride off into the sunset, however; as they are in for their fair share of ups and downs. At the end of the season one cliffhanger, fans are not sure who is on the other side of the door for Veronica when she says, “I was hoping it would be you.” Once season 2 premieres, we learn that it was Logan waiting for her on the other end, but she is now dating Duncan to make things even more complicated. Even when Veronica and Logan are not together, Logan clearly cares about Veronica more than anyone else. He constantly proves his love for her and defends her honor, not caring about the consequences.

While Logan may initially lack the stability that Veronica ultimately needs, his love for her is unchanging. At the end of the series, Logan and Veronica are not back together, leaving fans disappointed. However, when the Veronica Mars film was released years later, Veronica and Logan finally got the happy ending they deserved. It was worth the wait!

Piper & Leo from Charmed.

“Leo, you are the best thing that has ever happened to me. I was afraid that you were too good to be true, that maybe I didn’t deserve someone so pure and beautiful and loving as you are…Leo I was born to love you and I always will.”

At the beginning of the Charmed series, the blossoming relationship between Piper and Leo is delightful and real. Piper’s sister, Phoebe even initially competes with her to win Leo’s affection, but it’s always been clear where Leo’s heart lies. As Piper’s white lighter, it is forbidden for them to be together, but they cannot deny their connection. Piper and Leo have been through so much together and Leo is even ripped away from her by the elders during their first attempt at a wedding.

Ultimately, Piper and Leo are meant for each other. However, they go through quite a lot on the way and are tested constantly. Piper and Leo have two beautiful sons, Wyatt and Chris, and form a beautiful family together, constantly trying to keep this priority above all others. While Piper is known for her quick temper, Leo balances her out and always keeps her calm. When they are apart, it’s truly heartbreaking, as fans recognize the selfless love these two have for one another.

Piper and Leo do get their happy ending and keep their friendship and love strong in the process. There is something so believable and undeniable between Piper and Leo, still holding the test of time and reminding us what true love is all about.

Emma & Hook from Once Upon a Time.

“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.”

When the devilishly handsome Captain Hook sailed into our hearts on OUAT, he initially was out for revenge. While Hook innocently flirted with Emma from the start, his love for her allowed him to grow as a character and to learn from his wicked past. Hook was always used to taking the easy way out and making decisions based on how well it suited him.

Emma changed this perspective, however; proving that he could be a selfless man. When Hook realized his strong feelings for Emma, he even backed down and explained that she should be with Neal so that Henry could have his family all together. Hook truly loved Emma at this point, but was willing to sacrifice this so that she could find happiness. Later, when they did end up together, Emma’s power became too great and evil corrupted her heart. The only thing that could bring her back to goodness was Hook’s love for her.

Emma and Hook had one of the most beautiful relationships on television and their wedding at the end of season 6 was touching and heart-warming. Hook’s love for Emma transformed him from a villain into a hero one can be proud of, who will never stop fighting for the one he loves. Now that’s a fairy-tale ending!

Buffy & Angel from Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

Angel: “This isn’t some fairy-tale. When I kiss you…you don’t wake up from a deep sleep and live happily ever after.”

Buffy: “No, when you kiss me, I wanna die.”

This list would not be complete without including Buffy and Angel. Known as the vampire cursed with a soul, Angel is initially used to being on his own, lurking in the shadows and staying clear of human connections. When he crosses paths with Buffy, he realizes that he has a chance to turn his destiny around and do some good. However, he falls in love with her along the way.

Buffy and Angel’s love is touching and romantic initially, making fans everywhere swoon this ship. When Buffy and Angel consummate their love, he experiences a moment of true happiness and the curse is broken, freeing his soul in the process. As a result of this, Angelus is released, the pure vampire killer with no remorse or guilt and he begins torturing Buffy and her friends. Buffy is completely heart-broken but she proves her strength when she goes up against Angel, knowing that she must defeat him to protect the world. She recognizes that the good man she came to know and love is gone, leaving only a shell of a monster behind. After Buffy sacrifices Angel, he returns from Hell with his soul intact but their relationship is so complicated and shattered at this point. They love each other but they know that they can’t get too close because of the consequences.

They try out being friends and the villainous vampire, Spike even points out that they can never be friends because their love for one another is messy and passionate. At the end of season 3, Buffy and Angel part ways as Angel leaves the show for his spin-off, but not before he shows up at her prom to dance with her one last time, reminding her that he will always be there for her.

Although Buffy and Angel do not end up together and have other relationships along the way, they both recognize how much they truly care for one another. They have a love that transcends romance, understanding that even though they are apart; they are always together on some level.

Some honorable mentions before revealing my favorite OTP are:

Blair & Chuck from Gossip Girl
Brenda & Dylan from Beverly Hills, 90210
Michael & Sara from Prison Break
Maggie & Glenn from The Walking Dead
Octavia & Lincoln from the 100
Piper & Alex from Orange is the New Black
Kev & V from Shameless
Ian & Mickey from Shameless
Seth & Summer from The OC
Damon & Elena from The Vampire Diaries
Phoebe & Cole from Charmed
Buffy & Spike from Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Desmond & Penny from Lost
Sawyer & Juliet from Lost
Mike & Susan from Desperate Housewives
Tara & Willow from Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Clarke and Lexa from The 100
Sookie & Eric from True Blood
Nathan & Haley from One Tree Hill
Alice & Robin from Once Upon a Time
Cheryl & Toni from Riverdale

Sun & Jin from Lost.

“I was going to leave you. I was going to get away…but you made me change my mind.”

My all-time favorite OTP has to go to Sun & Jin from Lost. For me, Sun and Jin have a love that is very different from other characters on television. This is mostly because their love is the most real. Their love isn’t perfect and there are times where they do temporarily give up on one another and forget about why they fell in love in the first place. But this is what makes their love so important. Real love isn’t out of a fairy-tale; although I’m sure we would like it to be. Real love is about compromise and accepting that we will make mistakes along the way.

Sun has an affair with another man and even contemplates leaving Jin and running away at the airport. However, Jin shows her that he is holding a small white flower, just like when they first met and she changes her mind. It breaks Jin’s heart when he finds out that Sun speaks English, representing another lie she kept from him for so long. Both Sun and Jin are looking to prove themselves to the other, only to later realize that their love is enough. The fact that they are able to forgive each other for mistakes they made before, shows the viewer what true love is all about. Sun and Jin truly find themselves together as a couple and learn to love each other more than they thought possible.

After they are separated numerous times, they are finally reunited, not realizing that it will be short-lived. Right after they are reunited, Sun gets pinned under metal in the sinking submarine and Jin is unable to free her. Sun demands that he go and save himself, but Jin won’t leave her. He will never leave her again. Their death is one of the saddest for me to watch on television and the image of them holding hands under water as they take their last breaths, proves that they will never be apart again.

I hope you enjoyed my list and feel free to post your own comments and thoughts about some of your favorite OTPs on television. Thanks for reading! Happy Valentine’s Day!

**Don’t miss out on My Bloody Valentine’s Week book promotion for The Search for Alice! It will be on sale for 99 cents from 2/11/19-2/17-19 and free with Kindle Unlimited!

The Search for Alice is available here!

Free Instant Preview of The Search for Alice is available here!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl

@TV_Fanatic_Girl

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Throw-back Sunday: Ranking the top 5 heart-warming moments from “Lost”

It’s Throw-Back Sunday TV Fans! I hope you are enjoying your weekend and wish you all the best for the upcoming holiday season. Since it is that time of year, I started thinking about heart-warming moments from some of my favorite television shows. For today, I am going to be counting down the top 5 heart-warming moments from Lost. When you think of something heart-warming, what comes to mind? According to the dictionary, it means something that is “emotionally rewarding or uplifting.” Synonyms include: “touching, moving, heartening, stirring, uplifting, pleasing, cheering, gladdening, encouraging, gratifying.”

So now that we know what it means, how does that translate for you into a single moment? I feel like different moments portrayed by our beloved characters on television impact us all in some way or another. While some moments seem more heart-breaking than heart-warming, the line between these two often blurs if it has a glimmer of hope or happiness. For me, it has to be a moment that truly resonates with me and stands the test of time. Whether it is a particular dialogue that had meaning for me or a demonstration of unconditional love, the moment has to bring tears and a smile at the same time. Sounds difficult to achieve, right?

What I love about heart-warming moments is that they bring out an array of emotions in us, but ultimately remind us of the importance of true connections with one another. Sometimes a small act of kindness can have more of an impact than a grand gesture. I think it’s important to remember that when we come across anyone who may be in need of some uplifting themselves. What we do matters and our actions and words can truly make a difference. Please note spoilers are ahead if you have not yet watched the series.

My top 5 heart-warming moments from Lost are:

Sawyer tells Jack about his conversation with Christian.

“And this guy, Christian, tells me he wishes he had the stones to pick up the phone, call his kid, tell him he’s sorry, that he’s a better doctor than he’ll ever be—he’s proud, and he loves him.” (Sawyer from episode Exodus part I)

What makes this moment truly heart-warming for me is that Sawyer has been trying so hard to make others hate him. This takes place in season 1 and Sawyer is carrying quite a bit of emotional baggage around. He goes out of his way to challenge Jack with every chance he gets and the two have somewhat of a rivalry throughout the whole show. They are both initially in love with the same woman, Kate, and are both looked to as leaders by the group. Initially, Sawyer proves that he is a man out for himself. He keeps a stash of supplies hidden and refuses to help out just to do the right thing. Jack, on the other hand, is selfless in his actions. He attempts to motivate the Flight 815 survivors and embarks on several adventures because he knows they are counting on him. However, Jack is not perfect either. Before he got on Flight 815, he had traveled to Sydney, Australia to recover his father’s body. Jack’s relationship with his father, Christian, was very complicated.

Christian frequently told Jack that he didn’t have what it takes and that he had trouble letting go. When Jack arrives on the island, he begins even seeing his dead father roaming around the island, forcing his fears and insecurities to the surface. Jack has always been under the impression that he wasn’t good enough, but when Sawyer shares this conversation with him, he is truly impacted and even sheds a tear. Jack did have what it takes and his father was very proud of him. They were both just too stubborn to admit this and unfortunately Christian died before ever sharing this with his son. Throughout the series, we learn that many of the Losties have crossed paths before they stepped onto the plane and their lives and decisions are intertwined. Sawyer’s decision to let Jack know about this proves that he truly is a good person deep down and recognizes the importance of family and friendship.

Jack passes the torch to Hurley.

“It was only supposed to be me so I can do this. But if someone has to take care of the island, if someone has to protect it…then it should be you Hurley. I believe in you.” (Jack from episode The End)

Fans were not surprised when Jack stepped up to volunteer to become the candidate who would take Jacob’s place to protect the island. Jack has always reacted quickly and made tough decisions for the greater good. However, when he ultimately passes the torch to fan-favorite, Hurley, this was a truly touching and heart-warming moment. Throughout the series, Hurley demonstrates that he wears his heart on his sleeve. He always tries to make others laugh and help out, even when he is told he’ll just get in the way. Jack and everyone else recognize that Hurley’s gift is taking care of others which is why this moment is so beautiful.

Hurley always had trouble believing in himself and now he has to face his fear and embrace this important responsibility. He tells Jack that he will only do it temporarily until he gets back, but will ultimately become the permanent protector of the island. Hurley was capable of being a leader all along; he just needed to believe it. Jack’s belief in him gives him the courage to unleash his potential.

Charlie and Claire have imaginary peanut butter together.

“I remember peanut butter. Why do I remember peanut butter?” (Claire from episode Homecoming)

For me, this is one of the most iconic and romantic moments on the show. When Charlie and Claire are first starting to get to know one another, she is revealed to be very pregnant, but Charlie isn’t scared off by her in the slightest. Their friendship and budding romance has an innocent quality and allows viewers to feel young again. When Charlie asks Claire if there is anything she craves or misses, she admits that she is “the only Australian who loves peanut butter.”

Charlie is disappointed when he cannot initially find any, but he doesn’t give up here. He shows up with an empty jar and pretends that it is filled with peanut butter. The two sit on the beach and enjoy the imaginary peanut butter together, laughing and gazing at each other with joy. What I love about this moment is that everyone around them is worrying, while Charlie and Claire take a small moment to have some fun and forget about the chaos for just a little while.

Penny answers Desmond’s call after 8 years.

“I won’t call for eight years. December 24, 2004. Christmas Eve. I promise. Please, Pen.” (Desmond from episode The Constant)

Seems like a lot to ask of someone, right? Desmond and Penny have broken up, but he shows up on her doorstep and tells her that she can’t change her number and that she must answer his call 8 years later. Even I would think that person is absolutely crazy. It’s not like Desmond can exactly explain that his mind is traveling between times and that Penny is the key to saving his life. Desmond and Penny’s love has always been something epic and timeless. They are frequently separated but refuse to give up on one another. They teach us that true love does exist but that it doesn’t always work out so perfectly. Penny and Desmond both make mistakes along the way, but ultimately end up together because they never stop believing in their love for one another. It’s a powerful and undeniable bond that cannot be broken.

When Desmond snaps back into the current time, he dials Penny’s number on the freighter. It rings several times as fans were on the edge of their seats, wondering if she would answer after all this time. When Penny does answer the phone, Desmond’s memory and mind are healed and she reminds him that she won’t give up on him. Very similar to true love’s kiss from fairy-tales, this moment reminds us that having someone you love stick by you can help you overcome any challenge or impossible task. You just need to believe in it.

Vincent stays with Jack so he is not alone.

But if we can’t live together, we’re going to die alone.” (Jack from episode White Rabbit)

While I admit that I probably have shed more tears than smiles in this moment, there is something truly uplifting and heart-warming about this last scene on the show. Jack is dying after he has sacrificed himself to re-light the island and is wandering through the same bamboo forest he did when he first woke up here after his flight crashed. To bring everything full circle, Jack lies down and looks at the sky, waiting for the end to come.

A familiar bark is heard and Walt’s dog, Vincent appears by his side and lies down next to him. As an animal lover myself, this moment really resonated with me. The unconditional love a dog has for a companion is something that is truly special. When Jack’s eye closes, similar to when his eye opened in the beginning of the series, he knows that his words held true. He is not alone. He never was. He helped his friends and he made a difference that will stand the test of time.

I hope you enjoyed the list and please feel free to post some of your own favorite heart-warming moments from Lost below. Happy viewing!

Best,

Amy Koto, TV Fanatic Girl