I played the demos for Changeling and Gilded Shadows before buying both about a year ago, and then I played GS (manymanymany times) before playing Changeling. Gilded Shadows caught my eye first, and it involves slightly older characters. I wasn't sure how well I'd enjoy a teen-based story, even one set in later teen years. It's, uh, been a bit since I was that age. There was a nod to William in GS, though, which made me curious about him most of all. I'd read your recommendation for saving Ewan's route for last, so I waited to play William's second-to-last.

Nora's journal written in code to be deciphered as she learns more throughout the story was a clever touch. I enjoyed how a route was selected, too.

William's route is my overall favorite. I enjoyed the building of his connection with Nora the most. Learning to trust and rely on one another, holding hands and hugs, linking minds, the forehead kiss, as well as the lore book snapshot of their romance a few weeks later -- perfection. His dead mommy issues triggered my dead mommy issues for full on blubbering during the emotional roller coaster ride, but I truly did enjoy his route the most! 

Elliot is my favorite character and the cutest vampire with the prettiest eyes! (Although it must be said that Marc's and DoppelElliot's are certainly lovely and distracting, too.) His was the first route I played. (Likewise, Quill was my first route in GS, and he's still my most favorite character in it. Maybe it's a thing.) I want to comfort and protect Elliot and William (and Dracen, for that matter) all day everyday even though I know my protection wouldn't be needed. lol Cuddle puddles and movie night snuggles would definitely happen whenever the guys were up for it.

I think an evening with Courtney and Narine recounting tales of their own school years would make for an entertaining time. Also, Bartholomew is pretty damn awesome, especially in William's and Ewan's routes. Spencer's arc in William's route is also my favorite of his; his arc in Ewan's route came in a fairly close second. Confession: Ally's kiss made me squee like a teenager. lol) Last but not least, I was pleased to see some resolution to Kara's storyline in Corvin's route.

My top-ranked characters: Elliot > William > Bartholomew > Merle*

* Can't help it. He's intriguing! I want to delve into his brain and learn more. 

Looking forward to WSC!