Kirre Ranin

“There is no freedom, Benvolio; you should give up that folly now. This city is made of stone, and the stones will press us down, and down, cutting off all light and hope until dark is the only light you will ever see; do you understand me?' He gripped me by my arms, searching my face intently. 'Dark is the only light.”
― Rachel Caine, Prince of Shadows

“I dream only of red lips and sweet kisses,' he said. 'If I did not know her destined for holy orders, I would think her a demon, to haunt me so.'
He loved an idea, I thought, and not the girl herself; to him, Rosaline was a perfect, unobtainable jewel, more icon than flesh. I did not, in that moment, hate him; instead, I rather pitied him. My cousin was in love with love, and it would never be requited.”
― Rachel Caine, Prince of Shadows

“It was like having custard in your veins instead of blood, getting exhausted just trying to sit up in bed. Like drinking half a cup of tea and finding it as difficult as climbing Everest.”
― Mary Hoffman, City of Masks

“Of her face there was little to be seen. As usual she wore a mask. Today's was made of peacock feathers, as shimmering and iridescent as her dress. Behind her stood her waiting-women, all masked, though more simply dressed, holding cloaks and towels.”
― Mary Hoffman, City of Masks