Maria V. Snyder

"Yelena, you've driven me crazy. You've caused me considerable trouble and I've contemplated ending your life twice since I've known you." Valek's warm breath in my ear sent a shiver down my spine."But…"

"But you've slipped under my skin, invaded my blood and seized my heart."

"The heart is a strange beast and not ruled by logic."

"Oh, you made an impression. Like a stone caught in my boot."

"There's always another storm. It's the way the world works. Snowstorms, rainstorms, windstorms, sandstorms, and firestorms. Some are fierce and others are small. You have to deal with each one separat…"