297 Quotes by Naomi Novik

They would have devoured my family and picked their teeth with the bones, and never been sorry at all. Better to be turned to ice by the Staryk, who didn’t pretend to be a neighbor.

The Staryk didn’t know anything of keeping records: I suppose it was only to be expected from people who didn’t take on debts and were used to entire chambers wandering off and having to be called back like cats.

I will tell you what we shall do: if ever you need to rescue Catherine, or you Berkley, Maximus, I will help you, and you will do as much for me. Then we do not need to worry, I do not suppose anyone could stop all three of us, at least not before we can escape.

You impossible, wretched, nonsensical contradiction, what on earth have you done now?” I.

What I mean – what we mean by it is – it’s like credit,” I said, suddenly thinking of my grandfather. “Gifts, and thanks – we’ll accept from someone what they can give then, and make return to them when it’s wanted, if we can. And there are some cheats, and some debts aren’t paid, but others are paid with interest to make up for it, and we can all do the more for not having to pay as we go.

How did you,” he said, pushing himself up on an elbow, indignation finally dawning, and I pushed him back down and kissed him.

I didn’t really understand what mothers were, because mine was in a tree, but I knew they were very good things and you were very angry and sad if you lost them.

What an unequaled gift for disaster you have.

Trying to out-guess Bonaparte; the thought makes my blood run cold.