"I had read a Tale of Two Cities and found it up to my standards as a romantic novel." This indicates the narrator's personal connection and appreciation for classic romantic literature, highlighting their literary taste and expectations.

"She opened the first page and I heard poetry for the first time in my life... her voice slid in and curved down through and over the words. She was nearly singing." This suggests a transformative moment where the narrator experiences the power of voice and emotion in reading, elevating the act of reading into a poetic and almost musical experience. The quote emphasizes the emotional and sensory impact of her reading style, creating a deep connection with the story.