A Darker Shade of Magic (Shades of Magic, #1)

by V.E. Schwab

Such is the quandary when it comes to magic, that it is not an issue of strength but of balance. For too little power, and we become weak. Too much, and we become something else entirely.

A respectable prison is still a prison,

Rhy sighed. Kell watched him try to answer several ways before he finally said, “There is nothing I would not give you.” Kell’s chest ached. “I know.” “You are my brother. My closest friend.” “I know.”

“I’d rather die on an adventure than live standing still.”

(he had not stopped her, had long since learned that it was futile to try, and had long since resolved to be instead an anchor, there and ready when she wandered back, which she invariably did).

I have worth to them and so they keep me, but that is not the same as belonging.”

“Love doesn’t keep us from freezing to death, Kell,” she continued, “or starving, or being knifed for the coins in our pocket. Love doesn’t buy us anything, so be glad for what you have and who you have because you may want for things but you need for nothing.”

(not since Rhy began to throw tantrums at Kell’s every absence, insisting that the latter be not only a fixture, but also a family member).

“My life is mine to spend,” she said.

Rhy laughed silently. “I apologize for anything I might have done. I was not myself.” “I apologize for shooting you in the leg,” said Lila. “I was myself entirely.”