“Just because a person successfully steers a voyage through hell doesn't mean he ever wants to sail that route again.”

“Gratitude doesn't change the scenery.  It merely washes clean the glass you look through so you can clearly see the colors.”

“The pleasures of being a novelist are many.  But the greatest by far is the manner in which I live through my characters; experiencing every detail of their story as it unfolds gradually and personally within my own creative psyche.  I'm like a cat with untold lives, because each new book is my rebirth.”

“Conundrum:  A fun word to repeat over and over again when no one's listening. Actual meaning is as puzzling as the need to chant the word.”

“All I ever wanted from you was to know that I was wanted by you.  That would have changed everything.”

“Be nice. And if you can't do that, just don't be mean.”

“It is a key keeper’s right to bestow a copy of his key on anyone he wishes. But this practice―a phenomenal rite―is hardly ever performed. To receive a copy of the key means to have its imprint seared into your hand. Holding that branded replica over the front lock miraculously parts the gates to Dreamland. It works just as effectively as inserting the genuine key. Staggering to think about, isn’t it? You might consider clenching your fists when you dream.”