You can't change the desert. You can only take the fastest course through it. Wishing it's an oasis won't make it so.

I understand that you are still grieving. But we will always be grieving.

After all, that's why we read historical fiction-to be transported to another time, and to be astonished at ancient people's lives and traditions, just as they would probably be astonished at ours.

But that's how the heart is. Stubborn and foolish.

Even in the most wretched life, there’s hope.

Her beauty might fascinate men, but it was difficult to charm them when she stood mute. . . .

I'm not staring. I'm observing. . . . And what do you observe? . . . A brave young woman who has always fought for what was right, even when it was unpopular.