“Real truths, as opposed to imagined ones, are able to stand up to rigorous debate and questioning .”

“He'd wondered for so many years if he'd ever be able to forgive his father. Maybe he'd just used the wrong word. Surrender. Acceptance. Those seemed better.”

“Did you not take the opportunity to bathe, gentlemen?" Valentina questioned them, trying to take her mind off her body, which felt unusually sensitive in this sultry climate. The silk of her gown seemed to rub against her nipples with every breath.”

“The Queen, in love with love, returned her royal consent. [allowing newlyweds to honeymoon in private instead of appearing at Court to Queen Elizabeth I]”

“The odd thing about recurring dreams is that, no matter how many times you dream the same thing, it always takes you by surprise.”

“I speak from the heart words I have no right to say. Words that I should have never uttered to you, yet I cannot help myself. I love you and I shall love you through eternity itself.”

“Beauty, it would seem, was both a blessing and a curse.”