Melanie Dickerson Quotes

“I should like the woman I choose to be very honest, generous, and to have a sincere faith in God, rather than mindlessly following the rules.”
― Melanie Dickerson, The Beautiful Pretender

“Why could he not have chosen some other woman? Why Avelina? But he knew why. It was because she had seemed good and kind and had expressed her thoughts without any false pride or pretense. He had admired her forthrightness and her compassion. And although he had never thought of a wife with strong opinions was a good thing, he actually found he liked her opinions-or at least admired her for having them. He wanted to get to know her, to know everything that was in her heart. He wanted to marry her and, surprising even himself, to love her.”
― Melanie Dickerson, The Beautiful Pretender

“Be careful. If you feel you are in danger, come to me. I will protect you.”
― Melanie Dickerson, The Noble Servant

“Magdalen's eyes were wide and her mouth hung open. She was so sweet and beautiful. She would make a wonderful margrave's wife. Avelina had already made up her mind that the margrave had not killed his brother. She simply could not believe anyone who was so particular about who he was going to marry, and who seemed so concerned about orphans, could have done such a despicable thing. At least, she hoped not.”
― Melanie Dickerson, The Beautiful Pretender

“I am sure you know that a woman of good character, modesty, and prudence would not make her wish to marry you very obvious. She will not be hovering around you, trying to force your attention to her every moment." She spoke carefully, hoping he would see the contrast in her description between Lady Magdalen and Lady Fronicka. "She would not try to make you look unfavorably upon another woman to make herself look good. She might seem quiet and reserved, but that is only her Christian meekness and sobriety shining through.”
― Melanie Dickerson, The Beautiful Pretender

“Precisely. You are a man of great character yourself, are you not? Wishing to show kindness to the poor, a man of godly ideals in every way of your life?"
"I try to be."
"Then a woman of good character will be very attracted to you, will consider you a wonderful potential husband, even if she does not show it."
Avelina had to swallow the lump that rose in her throat. " She will count herself fortunate to have secured your good opinion.”
― Melanie Dickerson, The Beautiful Pretender

“She had never been in love before. She'd tried to save herself the pain, but all her pretending and hiding the truth from herself had not saved her at all. And even though this love was painful, it was worth it to remember how the sight of him and the sound of his voice had made her heart beat faster, that feeling of wanting what was best for someone else, even if it broke her own heart.”
― Melanie Dickerson, The Beautiful Pretender

“Magdalen, the girl with pretty green eyes. Magdalen, who was smiling so warmly right now at Lenhart, who was attentive to Katrin even when she talked too much. She had been so gentle and concerned about his wounds, washing his face and bringing him fresh water to drink.”
― Melanie Dickerson, The Noble Servant

“And now Magdalen, the girl he had thought was so sweet and beautiful, the girl he imagined would love to marry him if he would have her, was thrilled she would not have to.”
― Melanie Dickerson, The Noble Servant

“He considered telling her that she could, and often, if she married him.”
― Melanie Dickerson, The Noble Servant

“I will come back for you as soon as I can." He stared at her, running a hand over his short beard. "I was about to promise you that I will get back, but the truth is, I could get captured by my uncle and his men. Many other things could happen, and I don't want to leave you.”
― Melanie Dickerson, The Noble Servant

“Ava had once told [Gisela], "Never let yourself fall in love with someone who doesn't love you. Or at least don't tell them you love them, whatever you do." It had seemed likewise counsel. A person who didn't love you could use the knowledge of your love against you.”
― Melanie Dickerson, The Captive Maiden

“Geoffrey's eye was caught by the crucifix on the wall, of Jesus hanging on the cross, his head bowed. What kind of humility did it take to allow oneself to be nailed to a cross, hanging in agony until dead?”
― Melanie Dickerson, Court of Swans

“But Audrey was helping him realize it wasn't brute strength or his ability to sit a horse or wield a sword that made him a man. Self-sacrifice and courage were what defined the best kind of man.”
― Melanie Dickerson, Castle of Refuge