| 单词 | tighten |
| 例句 | The branches tightened around my wrist, as proof of what they could do, and then they loosened enough so I could talk without wincing. Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky 2019-10-15T00:00:00Z “I can feel a little tightening on my halter from Liza.” East of Eden 1952-09-01T00:00:00Z My chest tightens, and my eyes burn with tears. The Last Cuentista 2021-10-12T00:00:00Z He wrapped the belt around the trunk and Rahim, and tightened it. Everything Sad Is Untrue 2020-08-25T00:00:00Z She did not ask me to come, but I got up, tightened my wrapper, and followed her. Purple Hibiscus 2003-10-01T00:00:00Z He tightened his haunches to rise, then looked back in surprise. Pax 2016-02-02T00:00:00Z It was not weed: The chain of the Horcrux had tightened and was slowly constricting his windpipe. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows 2007-07-21T00:00:00Z She swallowed, and the muscles in her neck tightened. Root Magic 2021-01-05T00:00:00Z My vision tightens around the roof edge, trapping it in the center of a pinhole. Allegiant 2013-10-22T00:00:00Z Harry whirled around and Griphook tightened his hold around Harry’s neck: A tall, thin wizard with a crown of bushy gray hair and a long, sharp nose was striding toward them. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows 2007-07-21T00:00:00Z Frank tightened his hold on his walking stick once more, and listened more closely still. Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire 2000-07-08T00:00:00Z They glance at the stripes on his collar patch and sleeves; the cords in their throats tighten. All the Light We Cannot See 2014-05-06T00:00:00Z “James, you’re a lazy guy,” he told me one afternoon, “and if you don’t tighten up, Mrs. D will find you out.” The Color of Water: A Black Man's Tribute to His White Mother 1995-01-01T00:00:00Z Bill, tightening a drawstring on his windcheater hood, looked over. A Walk in the Woods 1997-11-01T00:00:00Z He had not known that he was going to ask the question, and he watched in astonishment as her mouth tightened and her eyes grew dark. Go Tell It on the Mountain 1953-05-18T00:00:00Z I could feel my chest tighten as the wheels got closer and closer to the ground. Dead End in Norvelt 2011-09-13T00:00:00Z And I could not find the words in our eye language to tell him how my throat tightened at the thought of five days without Papa s voice, without his footsteps on the stairs. Purple Hibiscus 2003-10-01T00:00:00Z She saw the way her father tightened his lips. Half of a Yellow Sun 2006-09-12T00:00:00Z But what she saw made her hands tighten into fists. Aru Shah and the End of Time 2018-03-27T00:00:00Z Watching Tom I saw the wad of muscle back of his shoulder tighten under his coat. The Great Gatsby 1925-04-10T00:00:00Z Bigger was not satisfied; he felt his muscles tightening again. Native Son 1940-03-01T00:00:00Z I heard the jingle of the trace chains as they tightened in the singletrees. Where the Red Fern Grows 1961-01-01T00:00:00Z Her stomach tightened as G-force took hold, dragging her to the center of the earth. Artemis Fowl 2001-04-26T00:00:00Z It isn't long before my throat tightens and my head starts to spin. Starfish 2017-09-26T00:00:00Z His hand tightened around the makeshift knife until he felt the edges bite into his skin. Bone Gap 2015-03-03T00:00:00Z Her fingers tighten around the bag in her hands. The Adoration of Jenna Fox 2008-04-29T00:00:00Z Flora Baumbach tightened her grip on Turtle, who was nestled in her arms. The Westing Game 1979-01-01T00:00:00Z My chest tightens thinking about how fast the time seems to be going. Starfish 2017-09-26T00:00:00Z She hoped, though, that whatever it was would loosen some of the knots that had tightened inside him. Half of a Yellow Sun 2006-09-12T00:00:00Z When he spoke the dragon’s name it was as if he held the huge being on a fine, thin leash, tightening it on his throat. A Wizard of Earthsea 1968-11-01T00:00:00Z My stomach tightened as he flicked his cigarette into the grass and sat down next to me. Mississippi Trial, 1955 2002-05-27T00:00:00Z My stomach tightens with the swoop of her voice, the gravel in it keeping us both tied to earth. Sparrow 2017-10-10T00:00:00Z Jorge’s eyes narrowed and his mouth tightened into a thin line when Matt refused to confess, but he said nothing. The House of the Scorpion 2002-01-01T00:00:00Z Meanwhile, in Kraków, the Germans tightened their grip on us. The Boy on the Wooden Box 2013-08-27T00:00:00Z Descheeny came down to the hunters who pretended to be adjusting the harnesses and tightening the cinches. Ceremony: 1977-03-01T00:00:00Z You coil up and tighten your muscles and listen, knuckles hard, the pulse ticking in your head. The Things They Carried 1990-01-01T00:00:00Z Dad stared at me, and the skin where his lips had been tightened. Educated 2018-02-20T00:00:00Z It was stupid of me not to have expected one or both of them to be packing some kind of heat, but my stomach tightened all the same. The Darkest Minds 2012-12-18T00:00:00Z Her cheeks tightened and her mouth straightened, as though a net of muscles took control. East of Eden 1952-09-01T00:00:00Z He began to feel a noose tightening around his neck. The Whipping Boy 1986-04-01T00:00:00Z Her face was buried in his shoulder; his arms tightened about her. Native Son 1940-03-01T00:00:00Z Yuni’s lips tightened and she began to walk faster, dragging Doha along. Finding Junie Kim 2021-05-04T00:00:00Z Trying to stretch the plastic band they’d tightened around them did nothing but force it to cut deeper into the soft skin there. The Darkest Minds 2012-12-18T00:00:00Z I set my lantern down and tightened my grip on the ax. Where the Red Fern Grows 1961-01-01T00:00:00Z Father had told them that we would tighten our belts a bit over here and try to send on some extra money to cover the mail expenses. Dragonwings 1975-01-01T00:00:00Z I tighten the cloak around me and realize that I’ve started to sweat in the warmth of the night. Legend 2011-11-29T00:00:00Z After every doctor’s appointment, she came by to give them the latest updates, and as her clothes began to tighten the Ryans presented her with new ones. Little Fires Everywhere 2017-09-12T00:00:00Z “Please close your eyes,” he begs, his jaw tightening. Five Feet Apart 2018-11-20T00:00:00Z He tightened the belt of his dressing gown, clasped his hands behind his back, and came slowly over to Meggie. Inkheart 2003-09-23T00:00:00Z Something tightened in his throat, a wave of nausea roiling inside him. Beasts of Prey 2021-09-28T00:00:00Z He was already at work tightening the model on its support stands so that he could read off the atomic coordinates. Double Helix 1968-02-27T00:00:00Z Her stomach tightened into a knot for a week. Enrique's Journey 2006-02-21T00:00:00Z Mother Lois fluffed my pillows and tightened the sheet at the bottom of my bed. Warriors Don't Cry: A Searing Memoir of the Battle to Integrate Little Rock's Central High 1994-01-01T00:00:00Z During class critiques the teacher would lift my latest project from the table and I'd watch her arm muscles strain and tighten against the weight. Me Talk Pretty One Day 2000-05-02T00:00:00Z His face tightened, and he could already feel the warning sirens starting up inside his body. We'll Fly Away 2018-05-08T00:00:00Z Abby’s mom tightened her arm around me and whispered, “Well, you gave her a piece, and we still get that donation.” Hope Springs 2021-08-10T00:00:00Z I tighten my grip until my tendons dig into his windpipe and half-drag, half-march him to beyond the end of the midway. Water for Elephants 2006-05-26T00:00:00Z My face flushed hot and my throat tightened. Hollow City 2014-01-14T00:00:00Z Adam’s face tightened up and lost the dazed smile. East of Eden 1952-09-01T00:00:00Z Finally he tightens the bandage, tugs my shirt back into place, and pulls away. Legend 2011-11-29T00:00:00Z Mother’s jaw tightens and I can tell she’s surprised that I know about her. The Help 2009-02-10T00:00:00Z He was nodding his head, his jaw tightening and his eyes closed on the tears. A Separate Peace 1959-01-01T00:00:00Z My throat constricts, and I feel like there is a hand around it, tightening. Insurgent 2012-05-01T00:00:00Z He turned back to her, and was about to tell her so, when she tightened her grip on his arm and he looked back once more. Atonement 2001-09-20T00:00:00Z They collapse, tighten, squeeze, and suddenly you’re breathing through a drinking straw. The Kite Runner 2003-05-01T00:00:00Z I feel his arms stroke my back, his hands tighten around my waist, his breath, and his smell, my tongue warm against his, a stirring inside of me that makes my tongue press farther. The Adoration of Jenna Fox 2008-04-29T00:00:00Z “You kept pulling at your tie and then tightening it back up. I saw a little kid in a hot church.” Native Speaker 1995-01-01T00:00:00Z He reached down and picked up his paddle, tightening his hands on the smooth wood. Son 2012-10-02T00:00:00Z Despite himself he knew where she lived and which car she drove and when he saw her husband, Kabuo Miyamoto, he felt something tighten around his heart. Snow Falling on Cedars: A Novel 1994-09-12T00:00:00Z I tightened my hand into a fist, as if that would stop the tremors. The City Beautiful 2021-10-05T00:00:00Z He tightened the rope around his arm and patted George on the shoulder. I Survived the Sinking of the Titanic, 1912 2010-06-01T00:00:00Z My throat tightened when I realized this was impossible. The Line Tender 2019-04-16T00:00:00Z Wash felt a sudden coldness between his shoulder blades, a tightening in his groin. Out of Darkness 2015-09-01T00:00:00Z Aunt Ivy would say no news is good news, but still my stomach tightened as I scanned the front page. Hattie Big Sky 2006-09-26T00:00:00Z His face tightened with anger, then he staggered to the sofa bed and passed out. The Glass Castle 2005-03-01T00:00:00Z Once all the oxygen molecules have been loaded onto heme, the four leaves of hemoglobin tighten around the oxygen like a saddle clasp. The Gene 2016-06-02T00:00:00Z When she felt his arms tighten around her, she pushed him away. Half of a Yellow Sun 2006-09-12T00:00:00Z Not a frown, exactly, but a slight tightening of the features, a twitch and a tic. Bone Gap 2015-03-03T00:00:00Z As soon as he felt the cord tighten, SEEf woke with a roar, which shrank to a purr when he saw Char. Ella Enchanted 1998-09-01T00:00:00Z Boss seems to sense trouble and the muscles of his arms tense; Mark sees his finger tighten on the trigger of the gun. The Kill Order (Maze Runner, Book Four; Origin) 2012-08-14T00:00:00Z Mama, of course, noticed the tightening in my face. In the Time of the Butterflies 1994-01-01T00:00:00Z Her face tightened into a expression of forced patience, as if she were explaining something to a thick-headed child. Hollow City 2014-01-14T00:00:00Z “Volt meter’s down around nine somewhere. Alternator belts were loose, I guess. I got ’em tightened up better now, but meanwhile I’m dead in the water.” Snow Falling on Cedars: A Novel 1994-09-12T00:00:00Z And Twig made that soothing egg-cracking motion down my back, and my chest tightened. The Science of Breakable Things 2018-03-06T00:00:00Z My stomach tightens into a ball, but I run out the door and down the steps toward home. Finding Langston 2018-08-14T00:00:00Z Each time I lifted my feet, the veins in them tightened and I felt the sand particles digging into my bleeding soles. A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier 2007-02-13T00:00:00Z She pushed away the fear that tightened her throat. Throne of Glass 2012-08-07T00:00:00Z "Easy, sweet lady," he said in a soft he mare whickered softly as Jon Snow tightened voice, quieting her with a touch. A Game of Thrones 1997-08-04T00:00:00Z My chest tightened and I couldn’t draw enough air; I’d stand there, gasping in my own little airless bubble of atmosphere. The Kite Runner 2003-05-01T00:00:00Z Something tightened in my chest to the point of snapping. The Darkest Minds 2012-12-18T00:00:00Z "I'm gonna be somebody," he said, feeling his throat tighten up again. The Contender 1967-01-01T00:00:00Z As I caught sight of the man’s face, my throat tightened. The City Beautiful 2021-10-05T00:00:00Z Her eyes tighten, enough for me to know that some part of her sympathizes with me, even if she’ll never admit it. An Ember in the Ashes 2015-04-28T00:00:00Z My stomach tightened as I worried whether his wife and seven daughters were now members of the drifting, clamoring crowd that had flashed at intervals on the screen. Interpreter of Maladies 1999-05-22T00:00:00Z That simply made the two men laugh, whereupon Elinor tightened her lips and confined herself to hostile glances. Inkheart 2003-09-23T00:00:00Z After Garvey left, Cole’s fists tightened until his knuckles turned white. Touching Spirit Bear 2001-01-09T00:00:00Z I tightened my hold, digging my fingers deep into his flesh. City of the Plague God 2021-01-12T00:00:00Z Meir’s grip tightened around my wrists, hard enough to send pain shooting up my arms. The City Beautiful 2021-10-05T00:00:00Z He saw Alec struggling against two large men and watched as they tightened the rope further around his neck.The old man’s choking sounds made Mark’s heart want to break open. The Kill Order (Maze Runner, Book Four; Origin) 2012-08-14T00:00:00Z When her hand tightened on the golden ball, it turned into a dim flashlight. Aru Shah and the End of Time 2018-03-27T00:00:00Z Edwin tightened his grip as if in warning. Touching Spirit Bear 2001-01-09T00:00:00Z The Captain nodded, tightening his arms across his chest as he had earlier. Jacob Have I Loved 1980-01-01T00:00:00Z My throat tightened and my heart swelled painfully in my chest. Made You Up 2015-05-19T00:00:00Z Unlike Gatsby and Tom Buchanan I had no girl whose disembodied face floated along the dark cornices and blinding signs and so I drew up the girl beside me, tightening my arms. The Great Gatsby 1925-04-10T00:00:00Z It became a best-seller, was rapidly translated into other European languages, and sent a further stream of Spanish colonists to tighten Pizarro’s grip on Peru. Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies 1997-03-01T00:00:00Z I looked at Kami and felt a tightening in my chest. Educated 2018-02-20T00:00:00Z I shifted my behind into my seat and tightened my seat belt. One Crazy Summer 2010-01-01T00:00:00Z I clap my hands over my ears and I hide my face against Keav’s chest, feeling her arms tighten around my small body. First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers 2000-01-01T00:00:00Z If Mary Anne happened to move a few steps away from him, even briefly, he’d tighten up and force himself not to watch her. The Things They Carried 1990-01-01T00:00:00Z He tightens his jaw, then balls up his fist and punches the spy hard in the stomach. Legend 2011-11-29T00:00:00Z Panicked, she tried to pull away from the man, but his grip only tightened. Copper Sun 2006-01-01T00:00:00Z I noticed right away that the screws on the casket had been tightened and that there were four men wearing black in the room. The Stranger 1989-03-13T00:00:00Z It had slackened a bit in last few days, but now it tightened again. Huntress 2011-04-05T00:00:00Z I looked at the old people, feeling my eyes burn, my throat tighten. Invisible Man 1952-01-01T00:00:00Z “So he was trying to light that thing on fire? Why didn’t it work? What’s—” Bast tightened his grip, his thumb digging into the hollow beneath Chronicler’s collarbone. The Name of the Wind 2007-03-27T00:00:00Z Her grip on my skin only tightened the longer I waited to answer. The Darkest Minds 2012-12-18T00:00:00Z It would require a special wrench to tighten or loosen. The Martian 2011-01-01T00:00:00Z Her own breath came shorter and shorter, a knot tightening inside her chest. Shadowshaper 2015-06-30T00:00:00Z He felt the loop of the chain tighten about his own. Stardust 1998-10-01T00:00:00Z Sierra tightened her grip on the metal bat and went up the last few steps to the second floor. Shadowshaper 2015-06-30T00:00:00Z During the Mass, Ma tightened a leather belt around her belly, the way some old Haitian women tightened rags around their middles when grieving. Krik? Krak! 2015-12-15T00:00:00Z Her hands tighten around my waist, and she sighs into my ear. Allegiant 2013-10-22T00:00:00Z He tightened his paws on the sword-handle and moved it from side to side with the sway of the big viper’s head. Redwall 1986-10-23T00:00:00Z I watched Mom’s hands tighten on the steering wheel. Out of My Mind 2010-03-09T00:00:00Z My throat tightened into a pinhole, and an involuntary choking sound escaped my clenched teeth. The City Beautiful 2021-10-05T00:00:00Z Matt sat up, only to have a bodyguard’s hands tighten on his shoulders. The House of the Scorpion 2002-01-01T00:00:00Z His obsidian eyes glittered as his grip tightened on her neck. Throne of Glass 2012-08-07T00:00:00Z Even though I could imagine biting into fluffy buttermilk pancakes, lightly dusted with powdered sugar and a dribbling of warm maple syrup, my mouth tightened with bitterness. Keep It Together, Keiko Carter 2020-05-05T00:00:00Z His entire body tightens at my words, his hand clenching around the ice pack. Divergent 2011-04-25T00:00:00Z A swath of red flushes Ethan’s face beneath his eyes and his hands tighten on the steering wheel. The Adoration of Jenna Fox 2008-04-29T00:00:00Z Her lips tightened as they always did if he dared to ask a question. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone 1997-06-26T00:00:00Z I turned my back on him again, my fists tightening with his triumphant chuckles. The Darkest Minds 2012-12-18T00:00:00Z His stomach tightened into a series of rolling knots and his breath came in short bursts ... Hatchet 1987-01-01T00:00:00Z The skin around Daddy’s mouth tightens, and he looks at me with bloodshot eyes. Like Vanessa 2018-03-13T00:00:00Z And afraid, finally, because when I tried to pull away he just tightened his grip. Z for Zachariah 1976-07-29T00:00:00Z She turns off the whistling kettle, startled, her chest tightening, terrified that he’s been in some sort of accident. The Namesake 2003-09-01T00:00:00Z He tightened his grip, locking me in place. Shelter (Book One): A Mickey Bolitar Novel 2011-09-15T00:00:00Z If I could get some thread, maybe I could tighten the waist and make her torn dress into a blouse. The Light in Hidden Places 2020-03-03T00:00:00Z "Love and hate and a little bit of courage and lots of fear would all rush over me at once and grip my throat and tighten me up," Dasch described. Nazi Saboteurs 2019-12-03T00:00:00Z Dimple flushed and looked away, hands tightening around the iced coffee cup. When Dimple Met Rishi 2017-05-30T00:00:00Z I squirmed in alarm, but she only tightened her grip around my furry belly. The Sea of Monsters 2006-04-01T00:00:00Z Only his hand moved down by his side; his fingers flexed, then tightened. Eleven 2014-01-06T00:00:00Z In fact, it seemed to be making straight for me, and I felt my skin tighten. Beyond the Bright Sea 2017-05-02T00:00:00Z I caught Raheem’s worried glance in the rearview mirror, and my stomach tightened. The Rock and the River 2009-01-06T00:00:00Z He drew his sword and tightened his belt. The Return of the King 1955-10-20T00:00:00Z Her guard was back up, the skepticism tightening her face. Tradition 2018-05-01T00:00:00Z He tightened his grip on the heart and shook his head. Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children 2011-06-07T00:00:00Z “It—it felt like the wind was tightening around my neck.” Huntress 2011-04-05T00:00:00Z He stood and stared at them, his face whitening and his lips lifted back and snarling from his teeth, and his hands tightened about the bamboo. The Good Earth 1931-03-02T00:00:00Z I tighten my fist and lift it in front of my face. Thirteen Reasons Why 2007-10-18T00:00:00Z He did not watch the process, but surveyed the ceiling as my fingers, slippery now with his gore, worked to tighten the tourniquet. The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume II: The Kingdom on the Waves 2009-10-13T00:00:00Z My grip on the bladeless hilt tightens, and I summon the splendor from the earth. Beasts of Prey 2021-09-28T00:00:00Z He took a long time tightening the cinch and checking the leather lacing in the stirrups. Ceremony: 1977-03-01T00:00:00Z By the time they had tightened, pinned, and locked me into my clothes, I could feel my stomach rubbing against my backbone. Fever 1793 2000-01-01T00:00:00Z Normally, when you lift someone, you expect their arms to tighten around your grip, but Morrie could not do this. Tuesdays with Morrie 1997-01-01T00:00:00Z His grip tightened until my hands felt numb, but I would never tell him to let go. In the Time of the Butterflies 1994-01-01T00:00:00Z At the mention of death, I can feel her hand tighten on my waist. Before We Were Free 2002-08-13T00:00:00Z I tighten my arms crost my chest and tried not to knock that woman plumb silly. Girls Like Us 2014-05-27T00:00:00Z She stooped down, and the moment she fastened its worn straps under his scaled belly and tightened them, she relaxed. Beasts of Prey 2021-09-28T00:00:00Z My throat was tightening around the lump in it. Because of Mr. Terupt 2010-10-11T00:00:00Z Her heart tightened, and she realized it wasn’t the answer she’d been hoping for. Throne of Glass 2012-08-07T00:00:00Z When she swayed with the crowd as the cars swerved, the hand tightened. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn 1943-01-01T00:00:00Z My throat tightens reflexively, as if my body wants to take it back. The Sea in Winter 2021-01-05T00:00:00Z I kick out, and she tightens her grip. An Ember in the Ashes 2015-04-28T00:00:00Z For the first time Jonathan felt the hand on his shoulder tighten. The Fighting Ground 1984-04-01T00:00:00Z He thrust the Ring away and tightened his belt. The Return of the King 1955-10-20T00:00:00Z I gasped out, feeling his arms tighten around my ribs to the point of cracking them. The Darkest Minds 2012-12-18T00:00:00Z She saw the muscles of their faces tighten, a movement under the skin from blood to marble. Sula 1973-11-01T00:00:00Z He guides me into the vest and tightens the straps at my sides. Allegiant 2013-10-22T00:00:00Z Through the knife he could feel the muscle tighten hard. The Pearl 1947-01-01T00:00:00Z But if you were to see me nod and smile exaggeratedly, with the corners of my lips tightened, you would take it that I had been teased and was responding sarcastically. Blink 2005-01-11T00:00:00Z Mama Carmen nodded, her face tightening into that stern glare Sierra remembered so well. Shadowshaper 2015-06-30T00:00:00Z After stretching, we went over to the benches, got our last-minute jitters out by adjusting our jerseys and tightening the drawstrings on our shorts. Patina 2017-08-29T00:00:00Z Her fingers tighten on the iron door handle. The Adoration of Jenna Fox 2008-04-29T00:00:00Z I saw one kid about her age, though, sitting on a bench all by herself, tightening her skate. The Catcher in the Rye 1951-07-16T00:00:00Z Arm saw, with a tightening of his throat muscles, machine guns slide back into the walls. The Ear, the Eye, and the Arm 1994-04-01T00:00:00Z It came out sounding like a hiss, rubbish, and Ugwu’s stomach tightened. Half of a Yellow Sun 2006-09-12T00:00:00Z His knees are pulled up to his stomach, his head is on his knees, and he’s shaking, tightening his grip about his knees, squeezing his shoulders small. Ninth Ward 2010-08-16T00:00:00Z “A screwdriver, then, can loosen as well as tighten, right?” The Chocolate War 1974-01-01T00:00:00Z I try to think it through, but she is coming at me again, her forehead tightened into a scowl of concentration. Insurgent 2012-05-01T00:00:00Z “We must tighten our belts,” says Margaret Thatcher, though she isn't, not personally. Black Swan Green 2006-04-10T00:00:00Z My throat tightens, thinking of Papa standing by the window, chewing his pipe. What the Night Sings 2018-02-20T00:00:00Z That the other sounds in his head were more than just sounds, that they made his heart do weird things, made his stomach tighten. Look Both Ways 2019-10-08T00:00:00Z Tony holds a small flashlight while his dad tightens something deep inside with a wrench. Thirteen Reasons Why 2007-10-18T00:00:00Z His jaw tightened as he clamped his teeth. Throne of Glass 2012-08-07T00:00:00Z “Check around here on each one, make sure it’s good and snug. If it ain’t, just tighten it up.” Out of Darkness 2015-09-01T00:00:00Z The limp hands tighten, the eyes blink, and with a deep breath she summons the infinite control that is Claire’s. The Adoration of Jenna Fox 2008-04-29T00:00:00Z Quincey Morris tightened his belt with that quick movement which I knew so well; in our old wandering days it meant “action.” Dracula 1897-05-26T00:00:00Z Her leg jumped beneath my forehead, she squirmed in her seat, but I just tightened my grip on her ankle and searched for some way to keep her in my driveway a bit longer. Anthem of a Reluctant Prophet 2007-04-30T00:00:00Z My hand tightened its grip on my father. Night 1955-01-01T00:00:00Z He tightened the rag on the handle of his fiberglass knife to give it a better grip. Adrift 1986-01-01T00:00:00Z I tightened the navy tie that accompanied the uniform—the tie was wrapped in the same knot I’d used as a freshman. The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates 2010-04-27T00:00:00Z I could feel my muscles tightening up all over. Old Yeller 1956-01-01T00:00:00Z My breath quickens and my chest tightens, and I force my eyes to look away. First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers 2000-01-01T00:00:00Z I took a breath and pushed myself forward through the open door, tightening my muscles as if ready for a battle. Keep It Together, Keiko Carter 2020-05-05T00:00:00Z Ben’s wails grew, and his father’s grip tightened on him. Scythe 2016-11-22T00:00:00Z Long, elegant hands brushed his cheek, then tightened around his throat. A Game of Thrones 1997-08-04T00:00:00Z Most people tighten up when they walk down Chestnut. Look Both Ways 2019-10-08T00:00:00Z Fierce bands of love tightened around his chest until he could barely breathe. The God of Small Things 1997-01-01T00:00:00Z He tried to tighten up his face into a mask of insouciance, worldliness, and control. The Great Santini 1976-01-01T00:00:00Z “Blood?” his father said, his frame tightening, attuned to disrespect. The Great Santini 1976-01-01T00:00:00Z Mama tightened her wrapper, then went to the windows; she pushed the drapes aside, checking that the louvers were shut to keep the rain from splashing into the house. Purple Hibiscus 2003-10-01T00:00:00Z Gran’s hands tightened around the steering wheel, but she let my inappropriate-for-a-lady words slide. Sir Fig Newton and the Science of Persistence 2022-03-22T00:00:00Z My chest tightens reliving this, all the tears and screams. They Both Die at the End 2017-09-05T00:00:00Z “Oh,” Ivy said, tightening her grip on the straps. Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World 2018-03-06T00:00:00Z Tialys did the same with his, easing the straps around the insect’s body, tightening, adjusting. The Amber Spyglass 2000-10-10T00:00:00Z “We could do that,” said the giant Baugi, and he stood straighter, and the corners of his mouth tightened into something that almost resembled a smile. Norse Mythology 2017-02-07T00:00:00Z My mind shouted so energetically that the announcement made my veins stand out, and my mouth tighten into a prune. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings 1969-01-01T00:00:00Z She saw the terrible agony and the lips tightened down to hold back the cry and desisted. Their Eyes Were Watching God 1937-09-18T00:00:00Z Archer was so anxious that he nearly recoiled, but the boy held on, his small fingers tightening over Archer’s. The Reader 2016-01-12T00:00:00Z I’m not sure why—maybe because it had all these belts that needed to be tightened and I needed someone’s help to put it on. Wonder 2012-02-14T00:00:00Z She went to move her hand away but Lola tightened her grip and seemed to read the younger girl’s mind. Atonement 2001-09-20T00:00:00Z He furrows his brow, and when he looks at me, his green eyes tighten with worry. Love, Hate & Other Filters 2018-01-16T00:00:00Z “He keeps shaking his head and tightening his lips. I think it’s because the hospital food tastes so bad, but he’s not allowed to eat anything else.” Finding Junie Kim 2021-05-04T00:00:00Z My chest tightens in anticipation even though I know Mr. Doyle has not been drinking. A Step from Heaven 2001-04-30T00:00:00Z She just knew that she was ready to show Layla her drawing, because every time she worked on it, she ended up crying or her chest would tighten and she couldn’t get enough breath. Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World 2018-03-06T00:00:00Z I tried to tighten my stomach muscles, but really, how would that help? Shelter (Book One): A Mickey Bolitar Novel 2011-09-15T00:00:00Z There was sorrow in Kino’s rage, but this last thing had tightened him beyond breaking. The Pearl 1947-01-01T00:00:00Z I tightened my fist, hoping the guard wouldn’t see Papa’s ring. Between Shades of Gray 2011-03-22T00:00:00Z Bekhir was loath to show emotion in front of his men, but at this I saw his eyes flicker and his jaw tighten. Hollow City 2014-01-14T00:00:00Z His father’s lips tightened grimly, and his eyes were serious. Finding Junie Kim 2021-05-04T00:00:00Z Dress sleeves are rolled up, ponytails tightened, and with squeals of delight, the Amazons—as they’ve christened themselves—step out on the slippery evening grass. In the Time of the Butterflies 1994-01-01T00:00:00Z They feel like a vise tightening against my skull the further I push. Thirteen Reasons Why 2007-10-18T00:00:00Z My eyes water as she tightens the wire. I Can Make This Promise 2019-10-01T00:00:00Z Her hands tightened on the straps of her pack. The Reader 2016-01-12T00:00:00Z Yishan grunted with satisfaction and began to pull, the noose tightening around the moon until the delicate thread looked like a thin scratch of blood. When the Sea Turned to Silver 2016-10-04T00:00:00Z She pressed her lips together and the bun of hair atop her head appeared to tighten. The Rock and the River 2009-01-06T00:00:00Z Shaking her head, she tightened her grip on the little girl’s hand. Wishtree 2017-09-26T00:00:00Z John watched his mother’s mouth tighten bitterly as she dropped her eyes. Go Tell It on the Mountain 1953-05-18T00:00:00Z Mars stared down at her, his grip tightening on his M16. The Son of Neptune 2011-10-04T00:00:00Z I comply, and Phil slips a soft cloth over my tightened lids and ties it behind my head, taking care not to tangle my hair. Love, Hate & Other Filters 2018-01-16T00:00:00Z The ropes tightened; the steeds labored; Taran heaved and tugged at the immovable cauldron. The Black Cauldron 1965-06-01T00:00:00Z No. Marigold tightened her bracelet more securely around her wrist and pressed on, stretching her toes to their tippy-tips and arching her arms above her head to figure out if her Talent was ballet dancing. A Tangle of Knots 2013-02-05T00:00:00Z He fiddled with his gloves, tightening them on his fingers as he rounded the corner. Anya and the Nightingale 2020-11-10T00:00:00Z Seven’s heart felt heavier, her chest tightening with anxiety and worry. Witchlings 2022-04-05T00:00:00Z “Where are you going?” she says, her voice tightening. The Knife of Never Letting Go 2008-05-05T00:00:00Z Her face tightened, and a look passed between them. We Are the Ants 2016-01-19T00:00:00Z Her arm tightened around his shoulders and she rested her cheek on his tunic. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn 1943-01-01T00:00:00Z His grip tightens a little on my shoulders; he leans forward and kisses my neck. The Girl on the Train 2015-01-01T00:00:00Z Nergal tightened both hands around the haft of his spear and roared as he thrust forward. City of the Plague God 2021-01-12T00:00:00Z Everything tightened up, and all my senses were directed forward at the man running at us with a gun. Blink 2005-01-11T00:00:00Z “Glad those pirates were useful for something,” Nicole said, tightening the last one. Beauty Queens 2011-05-24T00:00:00Z He taught her how to make numbers into something larger than themselves, applying them to larger concepts about motion and force, space and time, curves and circles and tightened springs. The Girl Who Drank the Moon 2016-08-09T00:00:00Z He frowned at me as he pulled the main in a bit and tightened the jib. Hole in My Life 2002-03-26T00:00:00Z He bent his fingertips, and the particles spun, whirring into a tightening spiral that grew narrower and denser. Six of Crows 2015-09-29T00:00:00Z Despite protest and criticism, the Nationalist response was to tighten the screws of repression. Long Walk to Freedom 1994-01-01T00:00:00Z Genie glanced at Ernie with his toughest face, the one where he tightened his eyes. As Brave As You 2016-05-03T00:00:00Z Mr. Robert’s mouth tightened like a rope pulled taut. Chains 2008-01-01T00:00:00Z She tried to shake off his fingers, but Basta merely tightened his grip. Inkheart 2003-09-23T00:00:00Z War preparations were already tightening the supplies of both commodities, but Loomis pulled strings, even yanked them, to get Lawrence what he needed at a preferential price. Big Science 2015-07-07T00:00:00Z My fingers brush over the trigger, and my throat tightens like I am having an allergic reaction. Insurgent 2012-05-01T00:00:00Z Then there was one that stuck in my mind and made me tighten my jaw. Warriors Don't Cry: A Searing Memoir of the Battle to Integrate Little Rock's Central High 1994-01-01T00:00:00Z Frankie tightened his grip, closed his eyes, and counted—one, two, three. Time Bomb 2018-03-13T00:00:00Z I fought against the painful tightening in my throat. From Twinkle, with Love 2018-05-22T00:00:00Z He did what he could, tightened his seatbelt, positioned himself, rehearsed mentally again and again what his procedure should be. Hatchet 1987-01-01T00:00:00Z I mean to let it go, but my grip around the sheet of paper only tightens. How to Disappear Completely 2020-04-28T00:00:00Z His damp clothes were pretty much clamped against his skin, and as they dried, the starch was tightening. Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy 2004-05-24T00:00:00Z I tightened the drawstring of my skirts a bit more every morning. Fever 1793 2000-01-01T00:00:00Z His jaw tightened as he rang up my order. Amal Unbound 2018-05-08T00:00:00Z Bigger glared; his whole body tightened and he felt that he was going to rise another foot in height. Native Son 1940-03-01T00:00:00Z But Nina remembered what Matthias had said: As you moved deeper into the rings, security actually tightened—it just became less visible. Six of Crows 2015-09-29T00:00:00Z He tightened the belts, pressed his thumb against them, then went out once again and stood leaning against the port gunnel. Snow Falling on Cedars: A Novel 1994-09-12T00:00:00Z The duct was tightening, squeezing around his shoulders. Ship Breaker 2010-05-01T00:00:00Z I can see his hands tightening into fists. Blended 2018-10-30T00:00:00Z I feel the muscles around it burn and tighten into a knot as I keep following my family. The Sea in Winter 2021-01-05T00:00:00Z His dad pulls back angrily, his jaw tightening. Ghost Boys 2018-04-17T00:00:00Z The hallway narrowed and tightened with oncoming passengers. Salt to the Sea 2016-02-02T00:00:00Z But his throat tightens around the words and he feels childish as he says, "Go ahead. Lock it up. See if I care." The Boy Who Dared 2008-02-01T00:00:00Z He felt the arm that was caught in the web tighten up against his body. Gregor the Overlander 2003-09-01T00:00:00Z A splinter dug into his hand as he tightened his grip on the board. Time Bomb 2018-03-13T00:00:00Z He tightened his grip on the door facings and shoul-dered in close to block me. Black Like Me 1961-01-01T00:00:00Z “You’re taking the lungs, Stella,” my mom says next to me, her hand tightening around my arm. Five Feet Apart 2018-11-20T00:00:00Z He leaned in and I felt my chest tighten. A Very Large Expanse of Sea 2018-10-16T00:00:00Z He loosened his belt and tucked in his shirt-tail and tightened the belt again. The Red Pony 1937-01-01T00:00:00Z She became intensely aware of her heart thumping, of the blood thudding in her ears, of the shape of Tariq beside her, tightening up, becoming still. A Thousand Splendid Suns 2007-05-22T00:00:00Z That same hand disappeared behind Cate’s back, tightening around her waist. The Darkest Minds 2012-12-18T00:00:00Z Amá’s jaw tightens, and her eyes narrow in a way that tells me I'm not going to win. I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter 2017-10-17T00:00:00Z Our parents are dubious as they listen, their mouths tighten: it could be that we are losing. Cat's Eye 1988-09-01T00:00:00Z The crowd surged in a few inches, pressing closer, tightening their circle. The Kill Order (Maze Runner, Book Four; Origin) 2012-08-14T00:00:00Z This was to her husband whose hand had, as we could see, tightened upon hers. Dracula 1897-05-26T00:00:00Z My nerves tightened each time a car passed. Black Like Me 1961-01-01T00:00:00Z My throat tightens too much for me to tell her he means a lot to me too. The Hate U Give 2017-02-28T00:00:00Z She tightens her grip on the Belle's arm. The Belles 2018-02-06T00:00:00Z My stomach feels like it’s tightening into a tiny little ball. The Freedom Writers Diary 1999-10-12T00:00:00Z There wasn’t much his companions could do other than tighten the tourniquet. Death on the River of Doubt 2017-01-03T00:00:00Z I tighten my jaw, and even though everything in me wants to fight it, I know exactly what I have to do. Five Feet Apart 2018-11-20T00:00:00Z Harry stared down at Black and Crookshanks, his grip tightening on the wand. Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban 1999-07-08T00:00:00Z But something unspoken passes between the two men when he tightens the cords at the side. Without Refuge 2018-04-01T00:00:00Z And Nicole felt her mother’s hand tighten on her shoulder for a second, saw the pull at her jaw. Beauty Queens 2011-05-24T00:00:00Z I zoomed in for a closer look and felt the muscles in my jaw tighten. Ready Player One: A Novel 2011-08-16T00:00:00Z She tried to wriggle free, but his arms circled her waist and tightened like an iron band around her rib cage. Out of Darkness 2015-09-01T00:00:00Z It was easier when I saw a stick, because I could rub my palms together and tighten the muscles of my calves in preparation. Purple Hibiscus 2003-10-01T00:00:00Z Then his hands tighten on my back, as if in warning, and he dips his head low to my ear, his breath a bare whisper. An Ember in the Ashes 2015-04-28T00:00:00Z He must have been heavily entangled, and maybe when the Columbian Guards had tried to tug it off him, the rope had only tightened further. The City Beautiful 2021-10-05T00:00:00Z I felt my throat tighten to a pinhole. The Marrow Thieves 2017-05-10T00:00:00Z Not in a way to make me fear, but rather to tighten the muscles in the pit of my stomach and send my pulse hammering through my veins again. Twilight 2005-10-05T00:00:00Z She wore a red dress—somehow he knew that she'd have on red—that was tightened at the waistline with a shiny gold belt. Forged by Fire 1997-01-01T00:00:00Z As the search continued, Ess’s eyes seemed to grow in her face, and her mouth tightened into a thin horizontal line. Orphan Island 2017-05-30T00:00:00Z August’s jaw tightened, and her back went ramrod straight. The Secret Life of Bees 2002-01-01T00:00:00Z Mama rose, tightened her wrapper, and then waited for Aunty Ifeoma to lead the way. Purple Hibiscus 2003-10-01T00:00:00Z He immediately tightened his grip on Finn’s shoulder and looked both ways for cars. The Strangers 2019-04-02T00:00:00Z Then it got closer, and Reyna’s hand tightened on the hilt of her sword. Blood of Olympus 2014-10-07T00:00:00Z His jaw tightened, but he kept his smile in place with some effort. Twilight 2005-10-05T00:00:00Z To Malcolm’s intense embarrassment, his voice shook, his throat tightened, and he found tears flowing from his eyes. The Book of Dust: La Belle Sauvage 2017-10-19T00:00:00Z “Let her go,” I said, my grip on his throat tightening. The Darkest Minds 2012-12-18T00:00:00Z The ropes started tightening, pulling my friends from both ends. The Lightning Thief 2005-07-01T00:00:00Z Still smiling, he tightened his grip, bowing the blade. The Name of the Wind 2007-03-27T00:00:00Z He tightened his arms as his lips pressed tightly against hers and he felt her body moving strongly. Native Son 1940-03-01T00:00:00Z His grip tightened on her shoulders, and she made a little squeezed, squeaking sound, but she stared up defiantly. The Cruel Prince 2018-01-02T00:00:00Z Archer swallowed, felt the scar tissue tighten around his neck. The Reader 2016-01-12T00:00:00Z She leaned against me and hugged my shoulder with one arm, and I felt my throat tighten. Hollow City 2014-01-14T00:00:00Z My chest tightens as I think about how, on the Victory Tour, Peeta and I will have to present ourselves as lovers again. Catching Fire 2009-09-01T00:00:00Z His eyes narrowed and his square jaw tightened. Between Shades of Gray 2011-03-22T00:00:00Z I prop up my shoe on the edge of Tris’s bed and tighten the laces. Allegiant 2013-10-22T00:00:00Z With a tightening sense of anger, Hazel realized that an ancient altar to Hades had once stood there. The House of Hades 2013-10-08T00:00:00Z But I can well imagine their faces tightened by incomprehension as they read my words. Hunger of Memory 1982-01-01T00:00:00Z My throat tightens and I swallow hard to suppress a gag. First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers 2000-01-01T00:00:00Z Sefia tightened her grip on his hand, and together they waded into the throng. The Reader 2016-01-12T00:00:00Z “Thanks,” I say, my arms tightening into my rib cage. Starfish 2017-09-26T00:00:00Z And if anyone quarreled or complained, he would simply tighten his lips and arrange his shoulders in the correct command posture. The Things They Carried 1990-01-01T00:00:00Z Her stomach tightened even more, and she wanted to go over to Drew and see if was okay. Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World 2018-03-06T00:00:00Z My hands tightened to keep him from dropping to the floor. Sir Fig Newton and the Science of Persistence 2022-03-22T00:00:00Z The chimp’s hairy arms and legs tighten around me. Water for Elephants 2006-05-26T00:00:00Z She put it down on the bedside table and came over and hugged him, a tremulous tightening of her arms around him. Half of a Yellow Sun 2006-09-12T00:00:00Z When Prince Joffrey seated himself to her right, she felt her throat tighten. A Game of Thrones 1997-08-04T00:00:00Z I heard the words home invasion and felt my chest tighten. Shelter (Book One): A Mickey Bolitar Novel 2011-09-15T00:00:00Z She tossed her head and her lips tightened. Native Son 1940-03-01T00:00:00Z Each time a head disappeared, I felt my stomach tighten. Between Shades of Gray 2011-03-22T00:00:00Z I trembled as the circle tightened around me. Kaffir Boy: An Autobiography 1986-01-01T00:00:00Z He was fussing around, tucking the furs into place, tightening the tension rope across the body of the sledge, running the traces through his hands to untangle them. The Golden Compass 1995-07-01T00:00:00Z We were still holding hands, and I felt his fingers tighten around mine. The Secret Life of Bees 2002-01-01T00:00:00Z His throat tightened at the sight of his mother’s loopy scrawl. A Tangle of Knots 2013-02-05T00:00:00Z Then his grip tightened as the cave shuddered around them. Uglies 2005-02-08T00:00:00Z The tunnel goes on and on and I think of the tons of rock separating me from the sky, and my chest tightens. The Hunger Games 2008-09-14T00:00:00Z He listened to the mantel clock chime the quarter hours and to the house tightening itself against the cold. Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy 2004-05-24T00:00:00Z He would hold his eyes shut so hard that his face tightened into a grimace, and then he would stick his tongue out as far as it could go. Purple Hibiscus 2003-10-01T00:00:00Z I can feel the muscles in her jaw tighten. Sparrow 2017-10-10T00:00:00Z As my fingers tightened on the door handle, I felt his hand push through my unruly mass of dark hair and seize the back of my neck. The Darkest Minds 2012-12-18T00:00:00Z Lyddie nodded and tightened her grip on her shawl to keep from trembling. Lyddie 1991-02-01T00:00:00Z The anthem plays, and my throat tightens with revulsion as President Snow takes the stage. Catching Fire 2009-09-01T00:00:00Z His arm tightens around my waist, holding me up. The Sea in Winter 2021-01-05T00:00:00Z My throat tightens and I cough to relieve the pressure. Insurgent 2012-05-01T00:00:00Z He unbuckled his belt and tightened it again. The Red Pony 1937-01-01T00:00:00Z Sierra tightened her grip on the bat and stepped toward one of the charging corpses. Shadowshaper 2015-06-30T00:00:00Z His hand tightens around his damp glass of tea. Clean Getaway 2020-01-07T00:00:00Z It may have been the moment when the officer finally pulled my second arm behind my back and tightened the handcuffs. The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates 2010-04-27T00:00:00Z I pull my backpack onto both shoulders and tighten the straps. Thirteen Reasons Why 2007-10-18T00:00:00Z The words come out calmly, but his insides tighten. A Bird Will Soar 2021-10-19T00:00:00Z The mountain laurel tightened their leaves, and the apple blossoms froze. Frightful's Mountain 2001-05-21T00:00:00Z My throat tightens as I remember following her into the aptitude test room, my eyes on her hawk tattoo. Allegiant 2013-10-22T00:00:00Z Now and then, an inch below the water's surface, the muscles of his stomach tightened involuntarily as he recalled another detail. Atonement 2001-09-20T00:00:00Z That's when his hands start to tighten hard and fast around my neck. Freak The Mighty 1993-10-01T00:00:00Z Instead I tighten my arms around his chest. How It Went Down 2014-10-21T00:00:00Z The effect on Cecilia was to cause her to tighten her grip. Atonement 2001-09-20T00:00:00Z He didn’t take his eyes off her as he picked both items up, slinging the pack onto his shoulders and tightening the straps, then hefting the weapon in both hands once they were free. The Kill Order (Maze Runner, Book Four; Origin) 2012-08-14T00:00:00Z My stomach tightens, wanting to throw the food back out. First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers 2000-01-01T00:00:00Z His mouth tightens and opens and spit flies everywhere. Angela's Ashes: A Memoir 1996-09-05T00:00:00Z A makeshift garrote is tightened around his blackened neck. Water for Elephants 2006-05-26T00:00:00Z She screamed as the nurse ran to the bed, tightening the straps around Henrietta’s arms and legs to keep her from thrashing onto the floor as she’d done many times before. The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks 2010-02-02T00:00:00Z And so this simple question about whether or not my dad still makes beats tightened the skin around my bones. Patina 2017-08-29T00:00:00Z The group blocking the bridge rattled threateningly, tightening the trap. Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky 2019-10-15T00:00:00Z Gabilan hunched and reared and threw the saddle off before the cinch could be tightened. The Red Pony 1937-01-01T00:00:00Z My chest tightened in panic, but I forced myself forward. Hattie Big Sky 2006-09-26T00:00:00Z Then his jaw tightened, and he shook his head. The Mark of Athena 2012-10-02T00:00:00Z His grip on the dagger tightened, and he took a step forward. Beasts of Prey 2021-09-28T00:00:00Z The key tightened a spring connected to a series of gears that extended down into the base of the figure. The Invention of Hugo Cabret 2007-01-30T00:00:00Z I felt my skin tighten, I couldn’t feel my face, and it seemed my ears had fallen off; my fingers hurt, and my teeth chattered. A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier 2007-02-13T00:00:00Z Jazz never looked up but shook her head and tightened the sides of her mouth, just like our mother does whenever she thinks something is ridiculous. When I Was the Greatest 2014-01-07T00:00:00Z They had tightened in the night and seemed to pull at his chest when he moved. Hatchet 1987-01-01T00:00:00Z She tightened her grip on the rope and lifted her second foot from the ledge. Son 2012-10-02T00:00:00Z Koffi stared at him a second longer, before tightening her grip on her shoulder bag. Beasts of Prey 2021-09-28T00:00:00Z I felt myself tightening, cross, growing restless for no clear reason, and I made myself move more slowly. Grendel 1971-01-01T00:00:00Z Matt felt a strange tightening in his chest when he saw the skull staring back at him from Fidelito s skinny body. The House of the Scorpion 2002-01-01T00:00:00Z “Anti-intruder jinxes on all of them. Security’s been tightened a hundredfold this summer.” Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince 2005-07-16T00:00:00Z My fingers close and tighten into a fist. Thirteen Reasons Why 2007-10-18T00:00:00Z I could tell by the tightening of Maxim's muscles under my arm that he was trying to keep his temper. Rebecca 1938-08-01T00:00:00Z His throat tightened in horror as his eyes traveled up its limbless body to its head and found that where he’d expected a reptilian skull was something else. Beasts of Prey 2021-09-28T00:00:00Z A normal Thief would—but instead, Hammie tightens her grip and continues fighting me in midair. Warcross 2017-09-12T00:00:00Z I felt my throat tighten, aware that if this hunting party formed, I would be in some way responsible for everyone’s safety. Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children 2011-06-07T00:00:00Z She sat up from under the cover, her dark-brown nipples tightening in the cold air-conditioned room, and looked away as she exhaled. Half of a Yellow Sun 2006-09-12T00:00:00Z The sight caused a clenching low in his gut, and his hands tightened on the steering wheel. Out of Darkness 2015-09-01T00:00:00Z I couldn’t speak for a moment—my throat tightened and I was having trouble breathing. Summer of the Mariposas 2012-10-20T00:00:00Z His lips slowly move against my cheek, then his arms tighten around my shoulders, and he buries his face in my neck, breathing against my collarbone. Divergent 2011-04-25T00:00:00Z Her face tightened and her hand closed convulsively. East of Eden 1952-09-01T00:00:00Z My chest tightened with a surge of unexpected anger at the way my countrymen were destroying their own land. The Kite Runner 2003-05-01T00:00:00Z He tightened his hold and dragged her out of the car. Out of Darkness 2015-09-01T00:00:00Z Her fingers tightened into fists, her nails digging into her palms. A Dance with Dragons 2011-07-12T00:00:00Z The key tightened a spring connected to a series of gears that extended down into the base of the figure. The Invention of Hugo Cabret 2007-01-30T00:00:00Z She smiled, slipped her baby into her kuspuck, tightened her belt, and stood up. Julie of the Wolves 1972-01-01T00:00:00Z His grip tightens, hurting my hand, and there's real anger in his voice. The Hunger Games 2008-09-14T00:00:00Z My eyes flew open as his hands slipped up to my neck, his fingers tightening slightly around the skin there. The Darkest Minds 2012-12-18T00:00:00Z The second lash comes too quickly, stealing my air and making my muscles tighten. Dread Nation 2018-04-03T00:00:00Z I knew he was strong; I didn’t know how strong until I felt it myself, the muscles in his back tightening beneath my fingers. Insurgent 2012-05-01T00:00:00Z Jonathan felt a hand tighten on his shoulder. The Fighting Ground 1984-04-01T00:00:00Z Horror, horror, horror ... he tried to disengage himself; but Lenina tightened her embrace. Brave New World 1932-01-01T00:00:00Z The vise around my brain tightens and now there’s an ice pick stabbing indiscriminately at the soft flesh. Everything, Everything 2015-09-01T00:00:00Z Ivy’s arms tightened around her legs, and she tried to imagine holding June’s hand at school. Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World 2018-03-06T00:00:00Z The ground smelled like wet clay where the hose had dripped all over, despite my efforts to tighten it. Darius the Great Is Not Okay 2018-08-28T00:00:00Z Rob’s face tightened when he saw where I was looking. The Darkest Minds 2012-12-18T00:00:00Z My muscles tightened and beads of sweat mingled with blood covered my body. Kaffir Boy: An Autobiography 1986-01-01T00:00:00Z This awareness, supported by ample evidence from the past, made Pecola tighten her stomach muscles and ration her breath. The Bluest Eye 1970-01-01T00:00:00Z Her mouth tightened, and Hazel heard all of the things she was not saying. Breadcrumbs 2011-09-27T00:00:00Z Now they fit together, now they were moving together, her whole body tightening, arching. Typical American 1991-01-01T00:00:00Z I shrug, tighten my mouth in silent rebuke, turn my back in bed, leave questions unanswered. Cat's Eye 1988-09-01T00:00:00Z “When you put your fingers inside, it loosens. But when you try to remove them, the circumference shrinks as the braid catches and tightens. There’s no way you can pull free by struggling.” The Mark of Athena 2012-10-02T00:00:00Z The deletions are tempting to a writer because they tighten up a sentence’s rhythm and avoid the ugly sibilance of which. The Sense of Style 2014-09-04T00:00:00Z My fingers tighten on the knife handle at my belt. Catching Fire 2009-09-01T00:00:00Z They shot out from under him as the hand tightened its grip and pulled him upright, until he was staring into the cold, blank eyes of Jordan McCreevey. Eleven 2014-01-06T00:00:00Z He looked gleeful, gloating, as though my fist tightening on his shirt was exactly what he would have wished. The Cruel Prince 2018-01-02T00:00:00Z “The peg will catch and tighten it again.” Watership Down: A Novel 1972-01-01T00:00:00Z Quinn’s lips tightened slightly, “This call is shielded—thoroughly. I’m making it at a certain personal risk.” I, Robot 1950-12-02T00:00:00Z My heart tightens when I think of the soldier’s words: Forces in Aleppo are targeting Kurds. Without Refuge 2018-04-01T00:00:00Z Jay, taut and grim-faced, anticipates when to loosen or tighten the rope. Paradise on Fire 2021-09-14T00:00:00Z My throat tightened, but I forced myself to calm down. Paper Towns 2008-10-16T00:00:00Z The wandering boy’s legs tightened on my shoulders. Salt to the Sea 2016-02-02T00:00:00Z I tighten my grip on my remaining knife. Legend 2011-11-29T00:00:00Z And instead of letting go, he tightened his grip, pulling me farther off balance. Z for Zachariah 1976-07-29T00:00:00Z He crouched, tightening his grip on the limb, and faced into the storm. Frightful's Mountain 2001-05-21T00:00:00Z He tightened the straps on his backpack, lowered his legs over the edge, and found some ledges to step on. Healer of the Water Monster 2021-05-11T00:00:00Z The temperature continues to fall and I tighten my arms around my chest as I walk. Thirteen Reasons Why 2007-10-18T00:00:00Z "Right," I say vacuously, tightening the knotted sleeves. What the Night Sings 2018-02-20T00:00:00Z Jackson’s jaw tightens, and I answer for him. Dread Nation 2018-04-03T00:00:00Z Harry and Hermione tightened their grip and dug their heels into the forest floor to stop him. Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban 1999-07-08T00:00:00Z I climb out on the plank and tighten up the ropes some and then there’s nothing to do but wait. The Young Man and the Sea 2004-02-01T00:00:00Z Without being aware of it, Sergio tightened his hands into fists. Nine, Ten: A September 11 Story 2016-06-28T00:00:00Z Her hands tightened and twisted on the container, and milk spurted out onto her lap. The Contender 1967-01-01T00:00:00Z “Can I ask you a question?” the man says, and the woman looks up to meet his eyes, her jaw tightening. Five Feet Apart 2018-11-20T00:00:00Z My muscles tighten the second we walk in. Divergent 2011-04-25T00:00:00Z His stomach tightened and rolled and made noise as he looked at the eggs, as if his stomach belonged to somebody else or had seen die eggs with its own eyes and was demanding food. Hatchet 1987-01-01T00:00:00Z ‘Very odd,’ said Frodo, tightening his belt, ‘considering that there is actually a good deal less of me. I hope the thinning process will not go on indefinitely, or I shall become a wraith.’ The Fellowship of the Ring 1954-07-29T00:00:00Z It tightened, as always, but just when he reached the point where it would break, line began to come in. The Old Man and The Sea 1952-01-01T00:00:00Z I waved back, something tightening in my chest. The Darkest Minds 2012-12-18T00:00:00Z The Director tightens his grip more, and a grin escapes his purple-red lips. Internment 2019-03-07T00:00:00Z The female scythe tightened her grip on the handle of a machete and brushed back her dark hair with her free hand. Scythe 2016-11-22T00:00:00Z The hair on the back of my neck prickles and my skin tightens as I watch them, even though it’s bright daylight with plenty of people around. Without Refuge 2018-04-01T00:00:00Z “What is the problem with people?” said Uncle Amin, his grip on the steering wheel tightening. Shooting Kabul 2010-06-22T00:00:00Z I could tell that his hand was tightening around the gun in the pocket of his dark-blue hoodie. The Stars Beneath Our Feet 2017-09-19T00:00:00Z Claire tightened the noose, pulling it in close around the trunk by its base near the rock wall. Son 2012-10-02T00:00:00Z And as the far off hand of Quinn tightened its pressure in easy stages, the laughter grew forced, an element of hollow uncertainty entered, and people broke off to wonder. I, Robot 1950-12-02T00:00:00Z Perilee’s grip on my arm tightened as each step drew us closer. Hattie Big Sky 2006-09-26T00:00:00Z I felt a sudden, horrible feeling tighten in my gut. A Very Large Expanse of Sea 2018-10-16T00:00:00Z The old man made no movement except that his fingers tightened on the wood. The Once and Future King 1958-01-01T00:00:00Z All these years and still she shivered with fright when he was like this, sneering, tightening the belt around his fist, the creaking of the leather, the glint in his bloodshot eyes. A Thousand Splendid Suns 2007-05-22T00:00:00Z His shoulders tightened, and his hands curled into fists. Millionaires for the Month 2020-09-01T00:00:00Z At my words, her face tightened and her look changed to meanness and anger. Life Is So Good 2000-01-01T00:00:00Z I kept quiet for a second, feeling my lips tighten and my eyebrows narrow. The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora 2017-05-16T00:00:00Z Hideo’s lips tighten slightly, but it’s the only response he gives about his safety. Warcross 2017-09-12T00:00:00Z I flinch at her touch, but she tightens her grip. The Belles 2018-02-06T00:00:00Z No. Sudden certainty tightened in my chest like a cold fist. The Name of the Wind 2007-03-27T00:00:00Z It was quite literally a tightening and a shrinking of the skin all over my body from the top of my head to the tips of my fingers to the ends of my toes! The Witches 1983-10-27T00:00:00Z “Sure,” Celeste said, tightening the base of her hair cloud into a ponytail. Goodbye Stranger 2015-08-04T00:00:00Z She jerks her head and her grip tightens. Girl in the Blue Coat 2016-04-05T00:00:00Z Her jaw tightens and she shakes her head. The Help 2009-02-10T00:00:00Z It looks like she's simply tightening it against the chill, but I can see she's really shifting it so it covers the Star of David on her coat. Girl in the Blue Coat 2016-04-05T00:00:00Z Instead she tightened her grip on his hand and looked to the horizon. The Reader 2016-01-12T00:00:00Z I tighten my hold on Ma’s purse and glance around nervously. Dragons in a Bag 2018-10-23T00:00:00Z His grip on his throat tightened, as if to silence the words that fought to come out, and the ebony ring on his finger gleamed dully. Throne of Glass 2012-08-07T00:00:00Z Renee stretched her neck to see what was happening, and once she saw the mess, she just tightened her lips and shook her head. The Boy in the Black Suit 2015-01-06T00:00:00Z He stared down at Kamau’s sprawled body and fought to temper the tightening in his throat. Beasts of Prey 2021-09-28T00:00:00Z He feels it tighten like a noose, but then the scarf comes loose from his neck, and time speeds up again as Lefty is thrown clear of the auto. Middlesex: A Novel 2002-06-05T00:00:00Z Emmett struggled and complained at first, but R.C. tightened his grip around Emmett’s neck, and he quieted down, half scrambling, half being dragged behind R.C. Mississippi Trial, 1955 2002-05-27T00:00:00Z He tightened his fingers around the man’s throat. The Kill Order (Maze Runner, Book Four; Origin) 2012-08-14T00:00:00Z With every blade of light that flashed off the sand, from a bleached shell or a piece of broken glass, my jaws tightened. The Stranger 1989-03-13T00:00:00Z He thought of Shae and the look in her eyes as he tightened the chain about her throat, twisting it in his fist. A Dance with Dragons 2011-07-12T00:00:00Z But since my cousins moved away, the rules have both tightened and loosened in odd ways. Before We Were Free 2002-08-13T00:00:00Z Had I tightened the lid on the jar after opening it the last time? The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate 2009-05-12T00:00:00Z “I reasoned that tightening the inner angles would allow the egg to handle a bigger impact.” The Science of Breakable Things 2018-03-06T00:00:00Z Dakari’s hand tightens around mine, but I pull away and search the clearing around us until I find a skinny boy in a dirt-smudged tunic. Beasts of Prey 2021-09-28T00:00:00Z Every time the astronaut used the airlock, the strain on AL102 relaxed, then tightened anew. The Martian 2011-01-01T00:00:00Z The grip on his limbs tightened again, but the pain had ebbed away and the trembling had stopped, leaving him merely weak and cold. 1984 1949-06-08T00:00:00Z The circle of people tightens, and I realize they're trying to squeeze me back out. The Sky at Our Feet 2018-03-06T00:00:00Z “Theodora,” she said, and closed her eyes and tightened her teeth together and wrapped her arms around herself, “it’s getting closer.” The Haunting of Hill House 1959-10-01T00:00:00Z I tighten my grip on the pool cue as she comes up gasping for air. Five Feet Apart 2018-11-20T00:00:00Z Aunt Tuti’s face tightened as if to hold back tears, but the tears splashed out anyway. The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora 2017-05-16T00:00:00Z The picture of Mamá crying on the television because of us came to my mind, and my throat tightened. Summer of the Mariposas 2012-10-20T00:00:00Z Lieutenant Jimmy Cross felt something tighten inside him. The Things They Carried 1990-01-01T00:00:00Z Her wrinkles tighten around her old eyes, her squint shifting into a glare. Free Lunch 2019-09-10T00:00:00Z He looked forward again, his iron grip tightening. Throne of Glass 2012-08-07T00:00:00Z A curious warmth floods her abdomen, followed by a tightening so severe she doubles over, gasping without sound, dropping the onion with a thud on the floor. The Namesake 2003-09-01T00:00:00Z The hose leaked a little when I turned it on, so I tightened it as best I could, and then I stood by Sohrab and we watched Babou. Darius the Great Is Not Okay 2018-08-28T00:00:00Z “Who knows. Perhaps they can drain it, tighten the soil; they have resources beyond our imagining. Or perhaps they wish to grow rice for their own men.” Nectar in a Sieve 1954-01-01T00:00:00Z As we reviewed my videos, we talked about my tendency to overthink my performance, which made me tighten up. Courage to Soar 2016-11-15T00:00:00Z The tendons in Bast’s hand creaked as he tightened his grip on the circle of iron. The Name of the Wind 2007-03-27T00:00:00Z The seat belt tightened across Felix’s chest, and his head whipped forward. Millionaires for the Month 2020-09-01T00:00:00Z My throat tightens as I see this altered version of my uncle lying there. Amina's Song 2021-03-09T00:00:00Z The queen’s lips tightened, and her chin gave a small quiver. A Dance with Dragons 2011-07-12T00:00:00Z And then, to her horror, the air turned and rushed at her; it swirled around her throat like a thousand scarves, tightening until she had lost all her breath. Huntress 2011-04-05T00:00:00Z I sat up and a muscle tightened in my chest. Red Kayak 2004-09-23T00:00:00Z Tad tightened his grip on the black backpack. Time Bomb 2018-03-13T00:00:00Z He looked at her closely, tightening his grip on the pitchfork. Copper Sun 2006-01-01T00:00:00Z I start to push his arms away, but he tightens his grip. Girl in the Blue Coat 2016-04-05T00:00:00Z She pulled me out of the seat and tightened her grip on my hand as she dragged me down the aisle, and I kept bouncing from side to side and touching some people. Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key 1998-01-01T00:00:00Z “How was your night, muchachos?” he asks, getting up and tightening the belt of his bathrobe. Marcus Vega Doesn't Speak Spanish 2018-08-21T00:00:00Z Gus leaned on his cue stick and gazed at Bigger and Bigger’s stomach tightened as though he were expecting a blow and were getting ready for it. Native Son 1940-03-01T00:00:00Z Every time I squirm or fight, his grip tightens. The Belles 2018-02-06T00:00:00Z The foul stench of the river was kept away by the wall, but the air was full of another scent that made every nerve in Matt’s body tighten with alarm. The House of the Scorpion 2002-01-01T00:00:00Z Chess tightened his arms around Finn, who was still soundly asleep. The Strangers 2019-04-02T00:00:00Z First Turkey smiled as Seed Collector tightened the silk sash. Healer of the Water Monster 2021-05-11T00:00:00Z “We inhabit the eye of the swamp, Ivanito,” she warns, tightening the shutters against malevolent rays. Dreaming in Cuban 1992-01-01T00:00:00Z The smooth wave rose, tightening her throat, making it impossible to speak, and then, as she held on, tensing her lips, it fell away and she was safe. Atonement 2001-09-20T00:00:00Z I can see her stiffen and tighten her grip on the handle of her briefcase. Things Not Seen 2002-01-01T00:00:00Z The scar line on his forehead twitched and tightened. The Rock and the River 2009-01-06T00:00:00Z Five years ago, a handful of patrol boats would have sufficed, but now they were at war with Everica, the recently united Stone Kingdom, and they’d tightened the restrictions on trade and travel. The Reader 2016-01-12T00:00:00Z “Be reasonable, lad,” said the bodyguard, tightening the girths on the saddle. The House of the Scorpion 2002-01-01T00:00:00Z Every muscle in my body tightens as his hand drops to my side, where I got kicked. Divergent 2011-04-25T00:00:00Z Her grip tightens around my hand, and her jewel-tipped nails dig into the skin. The Belles 2018-02-06T00:00:00Z Whenever I ate these worms, whose skins were like those of miniature porcupines, my stomach would tighten in severe cramps, and I would have no bowel movement for days. Kaffir Boy: An Autobiography 1986-01-01T00:00:00Z He throws a brown cloth bag over my head, tightening it around my neck like a noose. Internment 2019-03-07T00:00:00Z When he struggles, a fish on a hook, the Mask tightens his grip. An Ember in the Ashes 2015-04-28T00:00:00Z As Wes hit the final stair, he looked up and saw his brother lying facedown on the floor, a police officer’s knee in his back, handcuffs being tightened around his wrists. The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates 2010-04-27T00:00:00Z With no more warning than the tightening of his muscles, Tobias lunges across the desk and wraps his hands around Jeanine’s throat. Divergent 2011-04-25T00:00:00Z “But what if they decide—” She stopped, her throat tightening, and took a deep breath. Little Fires Everywhere 2017-09-12T00:00:00Z Suddenly he tightened up and ran a few steps and sprang for a leaf about four feet above his head. The Heart is a Lonely Hunter 1940-07-29T00:00:00Z The rest of the kids tightened their stomachs, opened their mouths, and tried to figure out how to explain a belch. The View From Saturday 1996-09-01T00:00:00Z John stepped forward into the tightening space of the steps. Native Speaker 1995-01-01T00:00:00Z The string tightened on my wrist and, to lessen the shock, I leaped across the crevice in the direction the giant had taken. Island of the Blue Dolphins 1960-01-01T00:00:00Z And wherever you looked you could see people tightening girths, putting on helmets, drawing swords, and throwing cloaks to the ground. The Horse and His Boy 1954-09-06T00:00:00Z Just make sure I ain’t dying, was what I was thinking as the cuff tightened around my arm. All American Boys 2015-09-29T00:00:00Z He tightened a tourniquet around his upper arm and told me to fetch Mom’s sewing box. The Glass Castle 2005-03-01T00:00:00Z His grip on his briefcase tightens when he sees her. The Night Circus 2011-09-13T00:00:00Z “And tighten your belt. Your pants are coming down.” Charlotte's Web 1952-10-15T00:00:00Z The Corporal frowned and then, lost in thought, went to his horse and tightened up the saddle. The Fighting Ground 1984-04-01T00:00:00Z My mother’s face tightened as she did everything she could to hold it together, but she couldn’t keep her leg from bouncing like she always does when she’s trying keep her emotions tucked in. All American Boys 2015-09-29T00:00:00Z She tightened her hold and twisted her body away from him. Atonement 2001-09-20T00:00:00Z The train jolts forward, slowly, lurching as the couplings tighten. Water for Elephants 2006-05-26T00:00:00Z My chest tightens like there's a monster trying to stuff its hand between my ribs and squeeze my heart until it bursts. Starfish 2017-09-26T00:00:00Z The old man quickly tightened the straps on the boy’s life vest. Salt to the Sea 2016-02-02T00:00:00Z The chaplain straightened his shoulders with determination and tightened his jaw. Catch-22 1961-11-10T00:00:00Z I helped him adjust the straps and tighten the belt, and by the time he put his helmet on, I could tell he was feeling better. Wonder 2012-02-14T00:00:00Z Her arms were looped around his head and when she tightened her grip he rose through it, desperate to breathe, up to his full height and enfolded her, crushing her head against his chest. Atonement 2001-09-20T00:00:00Z She stared at Kaisa, who finished tightening the straps of the saddlebags before looking back at her. Ash 2009-01-01T00:00:00Z Mrs. Mirabov tightened her hold on both the string and the kite’s tail, and the kite went taut. Beauty Queens 2011-05-24T00:00:00Z Air from the frigid New York Harbor blew at us, and I put my hood up over my head and tightened the chewed cord. It’s Kind of a Funny Story 2006-04-02T00:00:00Z But then I feel Adam’s grip tighten, so that the grasp of his hand feels like it is holding my entire body. If I Stay 2009-01-01T00:00:00Z I feel my face getting hot, feel my jaw muscles tighten. Things Not Seen 2002-01-01T00:00:00Z He strapped his belt outside his cloak and tightened it, and settled his light pack on his back; then he stepped towards the edge. The Two Towers 1954-11-11T00:00:00Z I tightened my lips and straightened my purse strap on my shoulder with all the righteousness that I could muster. The Book of Unknown Americans 2014-06-03T00:00:00Z I tighten my jaw and cross my arms to harden my stance and make everything about me firm and closed off. Pride 2018-09-18T00:00:00Z The three of them tightened the restraints of their chairs. The Martian 2011-01-01T00:00:00Z It wasn’t a good idea; one the cords in my neck tightened up and made me give a cry. The Journey of Little Charlie 2018-01-30T00:00:00Z The tensions grew when the Department of Defense tightened security after several spy scandals. The Woman All Spies Fear 2021-10-19T00:00:00Z Bigger paused and looked round the poolroom with a wild and exasperated expression, his lips tightening with resolution. Native Son 1940-03-01T00:00:00Z With both arms tightening around John’s waist he tried to cut John’s breath, watching him meanwhile with a smile that, as John struggled and squirmed, became a set, ferocious grimace. Go Tell It on the Mountain 1953-05-18T00:00:00Z The dangerous me noticed how Martin tightened his fists when the train pulled to a stop. Me Talk Pretty One Day 2000-05-02T00:00:00Z I writhed in a blind panic as the leather strap tightened, cutting off all airflow. The City Beautiful 2021-10-05T00:00:00Z And when the guards emerged from the darkness, Amah felt her throat tighten. When the Sea Turned to Silver 2016-10-04T00:00:00Z They hurried to tighten the chains and fasten them securely to iron pegs, which they forced deep into the ground with their wands. Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire 2000-07-08T00:00:00Z He walked down to the car and tightened the straps on the baggage carrier on top of the car. The Great Santini 1976-01-01T00:00:00Z “Don’t start,” he begged in a threatening voice, both hands tightening around his beer bottle. Catch-22 1961-11-10T00:00:00Z Clues that tighten inside Axel’s gut, and this time, he knows for certain Daniel wouldn’t find it funny. A Bird Will Soar 2021-10-19T00:00:00Z But instead she reached for Father’s hand and felt his fingers tighten around hers. Rickshaw Girl 2007-02-01T00:00:00Z My jaw tightens, and I pop up after only a few seconds, blowing out the air from my lungs. Love, Hate & Other Filters 2018-01-16T00:00:00Z Fear was etched into her features, in the bunching of her forehead and the tightening of her lips. Educated 2018-02-20T00:00:00Z The only sound in the room was the squeaking of the screws being tightened in the holes. Chasing Lincoln's Killer 2009-01-01T00:00:00Z I ducked my head, tightened my grip on the sack, and walked on. Where the Red Fern Grows 1961-01-01T00:00:00Z Ahead of her, a milkman had got down from his cart to tighten the girth straps of his horse. Atonement 2001-09-20T00:00:00Z He averts his eyes, but tightens his grip around my back. Love, Hate & Other Filters 2018-01-16T00:00:00Z But moving wasn’t a good idea because every time I flipped and flapped on the pavement, with every natural jerk, the cuffs seemed to tighten, and worse, I caught another blow. All American Boys 2015-09-29T00:00:00Z I know my hands are shaking from all the nervous energy inside me, so I tighten my grip on his shoulder so he won’t notice. Insurgent 2012-05-01T00:00:00Z Willie tried to jerk his arm loose, but the thin fingers tightened. The Contender 1967-01-01T00:00:00Z He tightened his grip on the cold steel handle. Son 2012-10-02T00:00:00Z “We’re here. We were just—” Amelia’s hand tightens on my shoulder; Serenity’s eyes widen. I Can Make This Promise 2019-10-01T00:00:00Z He tried to answer before his throat tightened. East of Eden 1952-09-01T00:00:00Z I pull at the collar of my shirt, for the first time in all my years at Saint Grace’s feeling the whitewashed walls closing in on me, my chest tightening. Five Feet Apart 2018-11-20T00:00:00Z The guard tightened his grip on her shoulder. Six of Crows 2015-09-29T00:00:00Z The knots tighten in my stomach again, churning the half sandwich, seven mini pretzels, and three bites of cookie sitting inside. Amina's Voice 2017-03-14T00:00:00Z I didn’t want to get caught just hanging out in front of the building, staring through the door glass, so I pulled out my skateboard and knife pliers and pretended to tighten my wheel truck. Burning Blue 2012-10-25T00:00:00Z He must’ve been surprised when I tightened my grip, the ocean filling me with extra strength. The Titan's Curse 2007-05-11T00:00:00Z He had to get up, move forward and tighten the hatch down as much as he could with the sail still through it. The Voyage Of The Frog 1989-01-01T00:00:00Z The muscles in my knee throb and tighten to excruciating uselessness. The Sea in Winter 2021-01-05T00:00:00Z Liam’s hand tightened around mine, and I found my other hand bunching the fabric of his shirt. The Darkest Minds 2012-12-18T00:00:00Z The world had tightened around them, but beyond the walled wood still stood the great grey caves of manrock. A Clash of Kings 1998-11-16T00:00:00Z Daoud gazed at the huge crowd and tightened his hand on the frying pan. City of the Plague God 2021-01-12T00:00:00Z Robin had learned how to tune it by tightening the strings and could play it a little. The Door in the Wall 1949-01-03T00:00:00Z The ring of a telephone, any telephone, anywhere, invariably caused Mrs. Glass’s lips to tighten a bit. Franny and Zooey 1961-09-14T00:00:00Z The main, still reefed, he tightened a bit to match the jib and the Frog seemed to leap ahead. The Voyage Of The Frog 1989-01-01T00:00:00Z He took a breath, tightened his lips, and spit on me, then resumed singing. Salt to the Sea 2016-02-02T00:00:00Z I set the lantern down and tightened my grip on the handle of the ax. Where the Red Fern Grows 1961-01-01T00:00:00Z Gasping for breath, I seized hold of his fingers as his grip tightened. The City Beautiful 2021-10-05T00:00:00Z Theon grabbed the man's scrawny throat, tightened his fingers, and smiled. A Clash of Kings 1998-11-16T00:00:00Z The next thing I felt was my skin beginning to tighten. The Witches 1983-10-27T00:00:00Z “I can hardly see,” she said slowly, and Turner’s stomach tightened. Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy 2004-05-24T00:00:00Z My heart tightens like a claw grips it. Without Refuge 2018-04-01T00:00:00Z I tucked my knees in under my chin and tightened the cloak around my face, afraid that he would pull me out of the crowd. The Ugly One 2013-06-11T00:00:00Z We sank in a hurry, and his grip tightened, choking me, as soon as the water closed over our heads. Mississippi Trial, 1955 2002-05-27T00:00:00Z As one, the buzzing cloud seemed to constrict and condense, tighten into a knot of noise, a swarm of wings. Orphan Island 2017-05-30T00:00:00Z Every minute that ticks off the clock feels like a belt tightening around my gut. The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl 2018-05-01T00:00:00Z I felt my shoulders tightening up, the way they invariably did during these conversations. The Glass Castle 2005-03-01T00:00:00Z Tracing my finger against the edge of the orange card, I tighten my mouth. Starfish 2017-09-26T00:00:00Z She tried to wrench free, but Amabel only tightened her fingers. A Clash of Kings 1998-11-16T00:00:00Z The two kapos lifted Fred’s neck into the noose and tightened it, leaving a chair under his feet to keep him from hanging. Prisoner B-3087 2013-03-01T00:00:00Z Her arms tightened around his neck and she buried her face into his shoulder. The Kill Order (Maze Runner, Book Four; Origin) 2012-08-14T00:00:00Z “I can still feel it in my chest. It’s like it’s ready to tighten up any second to stop me from breathing.” The Benefits of Being an Octopus 2018-09-04T00:00:00Z He tightened his grip, and the metal spear shrieked. City of the Plague God 2021-01-12T00:00:00Z His muscles tightened with the effort of not taking her braid in his hand. Out of Darkness 2015-09-01T00:00:00Z My hair was too thick; it always tightened back into a dense bunch right after she ran a comb through it. Purple Hibiscus 2003-10-01T00:00:00Z I tighten the rose thorns around his throat. The Belles 2018-02-06T00:00:00Z “The doctor said I should use it whenever I feel like my chest is tightening up. But that’s like all the time right now. And the inhaler isn’t making it go away.” The Benefits of Being an Octopus 2018-09-04T00:00:00Z She tightened the rope, moved her second foot, and then the first again. Son 2012-10-02T00:00:00Z Without even thinking about it, Chess tightened his grip on his mother’s phone. The Strangers 2019-04-02T00:00:00Z Frankie tightened his grip on the metal bar as someone down the hall shouted, “Stop!” Time Bomb 2018-03-13T00:00:00Z I felt my entire body tighten up at the thought of dancing with Eddie. The Red Umbrella 2010-04-25T00:00:00Z Mom sat all tightened up, her body stiff from holding back her fury. X: A Novel 2015-01-01T00:00:00Z It seemed like all of a sudden the sweat started to roll, and my stomach tightened up with nerves. When I Was the Greatest 2014-01-07T00:00:00Z Then his fingers would tighten, and when he opened his hand again, the fly would be only a red smear on his palm. A Game of Thrones 1997-08-04T00:00:00Z His anger burst from him again in hot sparks, though the only outward sign was the tightening of his fingers on the Executioner. The Reader 2016-01-12T00:00:00Z Smith pulled the saddle over Seabiscuit’s withers and tightened the girth. Seabiscuit: An American Legend 2001-01-01T00:00:00Z Patrice grabs my hand, and I turn to see the anger tightening her lips into a straight line. Finding Junie Kim 2021-05-04T00:00:00Z My body tightens, bracing itself—it hurts more than I imagined, but I pretend it doesn’t. I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter 2017-10-17T00:00:00Z He watched as Mark’s jaw tightened, as Linda’s eyes grew hopeful. Far from the Tree 2017-10-03T00:00:00Z I didn’t know if he understood anything I said through my blubbering, but his arm tightened around me and he kissed the side of my forehead. Made You Up 2015-05-19T00:00:00Z She was reaching for her gloves, which she had removed to tighten the knots in the rope linking them together, when he slipped. Huntress 2011-04-05T00:00:00Z I felt Liam tense and stop, his hand tightening around mine until it hurt. The Darkest Minds 2012-12-18T00:00:00Z But as we approach along the shimmering causeway, a wheel somewhere turns, chains tighten and groan, and the bars lift. The Inquisitor's Tale 2016-09-27T00:00:00Z That night I try to fall asleep before my teeth start aching from the tightened braces. Liar & Spy 2012-08-07T00:00:00Z “It’s not a line. I don’t even sing anymore. I left the band. I’m home for good,” Papá finally answered, tightening his hold on Pita as if to mark his words. Summer of the Mariposas 2012-10-20T00:00:00Z His voice held a tender note that made my throat tighten. Ophelia 2006-10-31T00:00:00Z His jaw tightens under the pressure of his strong bite. A Bird Will Soar 2021-10-19T00:00:00Z He tightened the pressure of his thumb and finger for a moment and the weight increased and was going straight down. The Old Man and The Sea 1952-01-01T00:00:00Z To hold himself steady, he tightened his hold on the two things he was still clutching: the smooth, cold handle of the Triwizard Cup and Cedric’s body. Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire 2000-07-08T00:00:00Z Then he dismounted from his horse, and he tightened the girth strap. Norse Mythology 2017-02-07T00:00:00Z Ma, on my bed, curls on her side; Pop’s lips tighten. Ghost Boys 2018-04-17T00:00:00Z I warned, pulling him away from where a man lay propped against a post, tightening a tourniquet around his gashed arm. Invisible Man 1952-01-01T00:00:00Z I could feel Baba tightening up next to me. The Kite Runner 2003-05-01T00:00:00Z Miss Edmunds fiddled a minute with her guitar, talking as she tightened the strings to the jingling of her bracelets and the thrumming of chords. Bridge to Terabithia 1997-10-21T00:00:00Z No one was saying much, just Watching as Mr. Tripp circled the raft, tightening a rope, checking the barrel tops, and trying to make it about as shipshape as Aeneas would have made a warship. Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy 2004-05-24T00:00:00Z The pain speared my heart and the threat of tears blinded me, so I tightened my grip on Juanita’s hand, fighting the urge to scream, to cry, to run away from it all. Summer of the Mariposas 2012-10-20T00:00:00Z I picked up the basket, tightened the blanket across my shoulders, and stepped over the threshold. Chains 2008-01-01T00:00:00Z I cling on to the scarecrow’s pole in the center of the tightening circle. Challenger Deep 2015-04-15T00:00:00Z By the winter of that year, the sine curve of Rajesh’s psyche had tightened in its frequency and gained in its amplitude. The Gene 2016-06-02T00:00:00Z The old soldier responded by tightening his grip around his neck, making it hard for him to breathe. The Fighting Ground 1984-04-01T00:00:00Z But Ma is tightening her face into a "no" look. You Bring the Distant Near 2017-09-12T00:00:00Z I feel something tighten in my chest, something dark and hot. The One and Only Ivan 2012-01-17T00:00:00Z Her hand tightened around the bracelet and its perfect circle pressed back into her fingers as if resisting. When the Sea Turned to Silver 2016-10-04T00:00:00Z I tightened up and squeezed, trying to stop the leak, but that only made it worse, and Jorgenson punched me and told me to knock it off. The Things They Carried 1990-01-01T00:00:00Z I just heaved, my stomach muscles tightening and my throat opening and a gasping, guttural blech, going through the motions of vomiting over and over again. Looking for Alaska 2005-03-03T00:00:00Z With a large key he tightened the wooden peg holding the newly repaired harp string. The Book of Three 1964-03-12T00:00:00Z I could see she was trying to get a look inside my hood, trying to check out my eyes, tightening up my Trazon looseness in the process. Anthem of a Reluctant Prophet 2007-04-30T00:00:00Z We stared as her flesh returned, swelling upon her bones and tightening her skin with muscles. City of the Plague God 2021-01-12T00:00:00Z I grab the gun Uriah gave me before we left and hold it out from my body, ignoring the way my throat tightens at the feel of it. Allegiant 2013-10-22T00:00:00Z “I—” Hazel tried to back away, but the woman’s grip on her arm tightened. Breadcrumbs 2011-09-27T00:00:00Z God, I love it when a kid's nice and polite when you tighten their skate for them or something. The Catcher in the Rye 1951-07-16T00:00:00Z She thanked me and all when I had it tightened for her. The Catcher in the Rye 1951-07-16T00:00:00Z I tightened my grip on pencil and books. Hunger of Memory 1982-01-01T00:00:00Z Day by day Jody tightened the girth a little more until at last the pony didn’t mind the saddle at all. The Red Pony 1937-01-01T00:00:00Z “We’ll be together again in a few days,” he said, tightening his arm around me. Twilight 2005-10-05T00:00:00Z “Chant, chill. There’s plenty of money to go around—we’ll make it work,” Donna says, tightening the straps of her new bra. American Street 2017-02-14T00:00:00Z Richard cradled his wineglass and wondered if tightening his grasp any further would crush it. Half of a Yellow Sun 2006-09-12T00:00:00Z Underneath their dresses flesh tightened and shivered in the high coolness, their small breasts just now beginning to create some pleasant discomfort when they were lying on their stomachs. Sula 1973-11-01T00:00:00Z She could see them, very small, and see them tighten when the bed rocked and the wall leaned forward and the door turned sideways far away. The Haunting of Hill House 1959-10-01T00:00:00Z The intimacy of that look made my stomach tighten again. Summer of the Mariposas 2012-10-20T00:00:00Z She looked up the ladderlike stairs, and as the sound of falling water tightened around her she knew her quilts were turning into yogurt. Interpreter of Maladies 1999-05-22T00:00:00Z She tightens her grip on the handle of the knife. All the Light We Cannot See 2014-05-06T00:00:00Z My shoulders tense; I feel Ayesha’s arm tighten around my back. Internment 2019-03-07T00:00:00Z His hand tightened on the doorknob before opening it. Amal Unbound 2018-05-08T00:00:00Z Inej opened her mouth, but panic rose up, tightening her throat, choking the words before they could come out. Six of Crows 2015-09-29T00:00:00Z The image of her looking more and more lovely every day made my heart tighten in my chest and I had a moment of sisterly, almost maternal, pride. Summer of the Mariposas 2012-10-20T00:00:00Z I can feel my throat tightening, a pain along the jawline. Cat's Eye 1988-09-01T00:00:00Z You are just jealous, I thought, and tightened my grip on the steering wheel. Dead End in Norvelt 2011-09-13T00:00:00Z In the alley outside, I tightened the backpack straps over my shoulder and picked up the empty duffel bag. The Honest Truth 2014-10-07T00:00:00Z With other students gathering around us, whispering, my stomach tightens, a little puke comes up, burning my throat. Free Lunch 2019-09-10T00:00:00Z The man behind me tightened his grip on my neck and shook me hard, just once. The Name of the Wind 2007-03-27T00:00:00Z It strained as it tightened, then withdrew and hauled the magistrate out by his ankle, still screaming, with the vodyanoi clinging to his back. Anya and the Dragon 2019-09-24T00:00:00Z The extra material bulged over the tightened belt, but at least she wouldn’t trip. The Light in Hidden Places 2020-03-03T00:00:00Z Almost as if my mind is distracting me from my calf muscles tightening, slowing my pace. Paradise on Fire 2021-09-14T00:00:00Z To wear it, I’d pull a thick woolen sock over my real leg, slip the fake one over it and tighten the lace so it didn’t fall off. Ugly 2013-08-20T00:00:00Z Taisin walked around the perimeter of the camp three times, and each time she felt the web of protection tightening. Huntress 2011-04-05T00:00:00Z Chip’s fingers tightened around the strap of his bag. The Parker Inheritance 2018-03-27T00:00:00Z The Doberman’s muscles tighten, like it’s ready to charge, so I grab Garrett and race back out the door. Dry 2018-10-02T00:00:00Z I tighten my mouth and look apologetically at Elouise, and then spend sixty seconds doodling something that resembles an ugly waterfall. Starfish 2017-09-26T00:00:00Z She saw the hard cloth of his uniform and felt the ferocious hands wrap themselves around her neck; then without interrupting the kiss, the fingers began to tighten. The House of the Spirits: A Novel 1982-01-01T00:00:00Z Seeing her pupils shrink and explode back out to their normal size, it felt as though someone had wrapped a line of barbed wire around my brain and was tightening it with every passing second. The Darkest Minds 2012-12-18T00:00:00Z He goes still and his grip on the rail tightens. Everything, Everything 2015-09-01T00:00:00Z His shoulder muscles tightened under my grip and, for a moment, I thought he’d keep squeezing Zaman’s neck anyway. The Kite Runner 2003-05-01T00:00:00Z Is it a lingering hint of selflessness that makes my throat tighten at the thought of them, or is it selfishness, because I know I will never be their daughter again? Divergent 2011-04-25T00:00:00Z I say, tightening my grip as the cat’s claws hold the strings on my sweatshirt. Shouting at the Rain 2019-05-07T00:00:00Z I tighten a knot in the webbing of my glove. A High Five for Glenn Burke 2020-02-25T00:00:00Z He was saying some last word to her but the eagerness in his manner tightened abruptly into formality as several people approached him to say goodbye. The Great Gatsby 1925-04-10T00:00:00Z Behind her back, she tightened her grip on her keys, points out. Little Fires Everywhere 2017-09-12T00:00:00Z I split my ponytail in half and pull to tighten it. Saints and Misfits 2017-06-13T00:00:00Z I thought of my mother and sisters still there, and it made my chest tighten with longing. The City Beautiful 2021-10-05T00:00:00Z Feeling the noose tightening around Kabul, Najibullah tried to reach a settlement with the Mujahideen but the Mujahideen balked. A Thousand Splendid Suns 2007-05-22T00:00:00Z I was using Etienne’s pocketknife to tighten up screws attaching a cable that lifted the blade, to make sure it would fall cleanly. Code Name Verity 2012-05-15T00:00:00Z I move to Gale, press my forehead into the body armor where his chest should be, feel his arm tighten around me. Mockingjay 2010-08-24T00:00:00Z A lump rises in the base of my throat, tightening my airway and shortening my breaths to shallow gulps. The Sea in Winter 2021-01-05T00:00:00Z I wave back, a little too excited, and my chest tightens the closer he gets to me. Starfish 2017-09-26T00:00:00Z She kneels on a cushion to pray, and a vice grip tightens around my heart. Water for Elephants 2006-05-26T00:00:00Z Capricorn rose from his chair, tightened the belt of his dressing gown, and came down the steps. Inkheart 2003-09-23T00:00:00Z As she flew down to the sand, he felt his heart tighten and release in a way he never forgot. The Amber Spyglass 2000-10-10T00:00:00Z She tightens her lips while doling out my drink: she doesn’t approve of me. Cat's Eye 1988-09-01T00:00:00Z He felt Garvey’s strong grip tighten each time they hit a big wave. Touching Spirit Bear 2001-01-09T00:00:00Z He lets my arm go, but his hand tightens on my waist. An Ember in the Ashes 2015-04-28T00:00:00Z His cheek muscles tightened, and a dull anger glazed his eyes. Touching Spirit Bear 2001-01-09T00:00:00Z She might have to make a large noose, he had told her, to whirl it over the crooked branches, then tighten it around the twisted trunk. Son 2012-10-02T00:00:00Z My throat tightens, and I’m afraid I’ll start crying, so I quickly list the first things that I can think of. Amina's Song 2021-03-09T00:00:00Z My body tightened up and I flailed around, trying to get loose. Root Magic 2021-01-05T00:00:00Z Without his consciously knowing it, the hair on the back of his neck moved up and his shoulders tightened. The Voyage Of The Frog 1989-01-01T00:00:00Z She tightens her grip on my hands, which is cute since I clearly survived the experience. The Sun Is Also a Star 2016-11-01T00:00:00Z Steve's arm tightens around me, and my eyes start going too. How It Went Down 2014-10-21T00:00:00Z He tightened some things here, loosened some more over there, tugged and patted and shaped. The Princess Bride 1973-11-01T00:00:00Z Maya tightened her grip on the bottle and said nothing. Far from the Tree 2017-10-03T00:00:00Z Harry saw his hands tighten still harder over his massive backside. Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire 2000-07-08T00:00:00Z He tightened his grip on the fighting stick; Sophie readied herself to spring. The Book of Dust: La Belle Sauvage 2017-10-19T00:00:00Z The loop tightens and now I got my hands full, hanging on as the tail lashes back and forth. The Young Man and the Sea 2004-02-01T00:00:00Z Momma’s hand tightened and let go, and I saw the small figure plodding along, tired and old- mannish. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings 1969-01-01T00:00:00Z She puts her spoon down and busies herself tightening her ponytail, as if she’s bored with this conversation. A Place at the Table 2020-08-11T00:00:00Z Neither of the boys screamed but the grip of their arms tightened and their mouths grew peaked. Lord of the Flies 1954-09-17T00:00:00Z Her throat tightened as her gaze met with that of the Crown Prince. Throne of Glass 2012-08-07T00:00:00Z A collar of fear tightens around my throat. The Belles 2018-02-06T00:00:00Z She tightens her own mask around her mouth. Legend 2011-11-29T00:00:00Z He dangles one foot off the end, and the open air makes my throat tighten up. Five Feet Apart 2018-11-20T00:00:00Z Bernard’s grip on the shot tightens, and I’m not sure what he’s going to do. A Good Kind of Trouble 2019-03-12T00:00:00Z His grip on the knives tightens and his knuckles turn white as he turns to face Al. Divergent 2011-04-25T00:00:00Z My throat tightened up looking at the empty kitchen. Root Magic 2021-01-05T00:00:00Z Neel’s fist tightened around his crumpled math homework. Tiger Boy 2015-10-01T00:00:00Z He must not let his muscles tighten before the race. Ralph S. Mouse 1992-08-01T00:00:00Z In answer, David tightened the straps of his bungee jacket and jumped onto his boards. Uglies 2005-02-08T00:00:00Z My throat tightens, and I start climbing up the next ladder. Thirteen Reasons Why 2007-10-18T00:00:00Z It was inevitable when one had gone long enough on heavier and heavier narcotics, and under the steadily tightening vise of the hustling life. The Autobiography of Malcolm X 1965-01-01T00:00:00Z The girl’s face tightened, and she took a couple of uneasy steps away from the edge of the ice floe, squeezed her arms to her sides, and leapt over the dark crevice. Breadcrumbs 2011-09-27T00:00:00Z She whispered at him, her eyes still closed but her lips tightened in a thin line, “It takes a mighty brave man to run over turtles.” The Great Santini 1976-01-01T00:00:00Z My stomach would tighten up, and I would become so nervous I could hardly read at all. Bad Boy 2001-05-08T00:00:00Z I tighten my throat, dash, collapse over the toilet, and throw up. Black Brother, Black Brother 2020-03-03T00:00:00Z He felt his stomach tighten, his breath grow sharp. The Killer Angels: The Classic Novel of the Civil War 1974-01-01T00:00:00Z To keep order, she tightened her grip on Egypt. Sterling Biographies®: Cleopatra: Egypt's Last and Greatest Queen 2009-02-03T00:00:00Z Mariam could see in the stiff way the girl clutched the cup, the tightened shoulders, that she was nervous. A Thousand Splendid Suns 2007-05-22T00:00:00Z Dampened just so the fabric smoothed and tightened with starch. Jazz 1992-01-01T00:00:00Z I felt a brief relief for that, but the pain in my foot returned, causing the veins in my entire body to tighten. A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier 2007-02-13T00:00:00Z He tightened up a little but let me hold it. The Kite Runner 2003-05-01T00:00:00Z He smiled down at her, but it was coated in sadness and it made her chest tighten. When Dimple Met Rishi 2017-05-30T00:00:00Z The muscles of his body gave a tightening lunge and he saw his fist come down on the side of Gus’s head; he had struck him really before he was conscious of doing so. Native Son 1940-03-01T00:00:00Z I head for the door, my fingers tightening into nervous fists. How to Disappear Completely 2020-04-28T00:00:00Z Seeing Daddy’s jaw tighten and his eyes narrow, Grandma touched his hand to stay him. Warriors Don't Cry: A Searing Memoir of the Battle to Integrate Little Rock's Central High 1994-01-01T00:00:00Z Carly crossed her arms, tightened her lips, and raised one eyebrow. The Lemonade War 2007-04-23T00:00:00Z I hear my own voice tighten as I bristle at some unspoken accusation. Catching Fire 2009-09-01T00:00:00Z Qhorin's mouth tightened as he followed its flight with his eyes. A Clash of Kings 1998-11-16T00:00:00Z Amari said with fear tightening her voice as she carefully washed the child and wrapped her in the blanket. Copper Sun 2006-01-01T00:00:00Z As they started out, some of the women found the banners unwieldy, but they tightened their grips on the wooden rods and kept moving forward. Votes for Women! 2018-02-13T00:00:00Z “Not on my life,” vowed Granny, her limbs tightening in anger. Kaffir Boy: An Autobiography 1986-01-01T00:00:00Z Angie tightens her robe and looks down at her chipped pink toenails. I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter 2017-10-17T00:00:00Z "Something about her does remind me of her father after all. See her lips tighten? And that look! Oh yes, anyone can see they’re related." Inkheart 2003-09-23T00:00:00Z Magdalys tightened her grip on the reins and pulled hard, yanking Missy back into a straight-ahead dash out into the darkness of the bay and away. Dactyl Hill Squad 2018-09-11T00:00:00Z Spasms cause Peeta’s hands to tighten into fists, then splay out in a bizarre fashion. Mockingjay 2010-08-24T00:00:00Z A pair of hands tightened around my ankles. Salt to the Sea 2016-02-02T00:00:00Z This principle of ever-more-exact measurement derives from Tycho Brahe; in tightening up the relationship between evidence and theory in physics, Galileo was extrapolating from the practices of the astronomers. The Invention of Science 2015-09-17T00:00:00Z “God,” Tobias says, and his hands tighten around his own gun. Allegiant 2013-10-22T00:00:00Z The trousers were big and bunched up when Obinze tightened his belt, but the jacket, also big, shielded this unsightly pleat of cloth at his waist. Americanah 2013-05-14T00:00:00Z It was a hand drum, and he held it by the sinew ties crisscrossing the back, tilting it towards the heat to tighten the skin over the front. The Marrow Thieves 2017-05-10T00:00:00Z First, they knew, would come swelling and fever and tightened throat, and then cramps in the stomach, and then Coyotito might die if enough of the poison had gone in. The Pearl 1947-01-01T00:00:00Z I figure I have all term to work on it so I can do what Mr. Van Deusen suggested: write down whatever, then go back and tighten it up before I turn it in. Shine! 2019-11-05T00:00:00Z The pain was different now, a tightened pain, and it seemed less—but the sound. Hatchet 1987-01-01T00:00:00Z “Careful, brother, or I might not tighten your straps enough,” Zeke says. Divergent 2011-04-25T00:00:00Z Her chest heaves, she’s covered in sweat, hurt darkens her eyes—and she is still so beautiful that my throat tightens, and I want so badly to kiss her. An Ember in the Ashes 2015-04-28T00:00:00Z By the time I turned around to check the cargo spot, the arm was around my neck, and the chokehold was tightening. Burning Blue 2012-10-25T00:00:00Z He tightened his grip on the stick and swept away at the leaves. Hello, Universe 2017-03-14T00:00:00Z His whole face had been balled into a knot and tightened. Hello, Universe 2017-03-14T00:00:00Z Her legs tighten around my hips and her bow twangs as she launches arrow after arrow into our pursuers. An Ember in the Ashes 2015-04-28T00:00:00Z Ayanna tightened her grip on the staff and glanced at me. Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky 2019-10-15T00:00:00Z He whispered the word as his brother’s grip tightened. Beasts of Prey 2021-09-28T00:00:00Z With a month to go before the election, the race began to tighten. Most Dangerous: Daniel Ellsberg and the Secret History of the Vietnam War 2015-09-22T00:00:00Z The words were innocuous, but that knot of fear tightened, a cold fist now, pressing against her chest. Six of Crows 2015-09-29T00:00:00Z Metias’s mouth tightens into a line, and a familiar, strained look appears in his eyes. Legend 2011-11-29T00:00:00Z Momma’s face tightens some when she says the word wrong. A Good Kind of Trouble 2019-03-12T00:00:00Z But Char pushed SEEf’s hands aside and tightened the rope again. Ella Enchanted 1998-09-01T00:00:00Z The instant the animal’s hind legs brushed the trap, he tightened his powerful digits around its neck. Artemis Fowl 2001-04-26T00:00:00Z And now, as we’re climbing back across the boulders and driftwood logs, I feel the muscles around my knee burn and tighten. The Sea in Winter 2021-01-05T00:00:00Z Cold water could actually hurt a singer’s voice—tighten the cords when they need to be loosened. Shine! 2019-11-05T00:00:00Z As her fingers tightened on her scabbard, he could see the scars and nicks on her skin shifting over her tendons. The Reader 2016-01-12T00:00:00Z With a twist of his wrist he slips a hood over her head and tightens the drawstrings with his teeth and free hand. On the Far Side of the Mountain 1990-01-01T00:00:00Z She struggled briefly, but his hand tightened like a vise and she went still. The Reader 2016-01-12T00:00:00Z She swayed as she spoke and he tightened his arms about her, holding her up. Native Son 1940-03-01T00:00:00Z My hand tightens against the back of the dining room chair. Warcross 2017-09-12T00:00:00Z My grip on Alan tightens until he wriggles and looks at me. Without Refuge 2018-04-01T00:00:00Z Her lips tightened into an even wider grin. The Westing Game 1979-01-01T00:00:00Z Her shoulders tightened up, her chest caved in, and her mouth opened in a howl. The Lemonade War 2007-04-23T00:00:00Z This twisting tightened the chalzas and kept the yolks suspended in the middle of the albumen so that they did not stick to the inner shell. Frightful's Mountain 2001-05-21T00:00:00Z Bigger’s entire body tightened with suspense and dread. Native Son 1940-03-01T00:00:00Z And my heart tightened as the first crowd swung imperturbably back to their looting with derisive cries, like sandpipers swinging around to glean the shore after a furious wave's recession. Invisible Man 1952-01-01T00:00:00Z She blames the sun for this, for the false shadows it casts in her house, and she tightens the shutters against enemy rays. Dreaming in Cuban 1992-01-01T00:00:00Z I felt Dad’s arm on my shoulder tighten. The London Eye Mystery 2007-01-01T00:00:00Z It builds and builds all day, tightening my throat and chest, and sometimes I feel it in my face. I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter 2017-10-17T00:00:00Z The thing in the pit tightened its unseen grip around me. The Lightning Thief 2005-07-01T00:00:00Z I want to say something, to call her name, but my throat tightens. Thirteen Reasons Why 2007-10-18T00:00:00Z I felt my throat tighten at the injustice of it. It All Comes Down to This 2017-07-11T00:00:00Z I can see the pain tightening on her face. I Am the Messenger 2002-01-10T00:00:00Z She lassoed the nest, tightened the noose, and pulled. Son 2012-10-02T00:00:00Z I tightened my grip on the horn, making a decision, based on another kind of instinct, not to surrender my hold. Educated 2018-02-20T00:00:00Z I tightened my grip on the dust rag, my ready excuse for why I was here. Amal Unbound 2018-05-08T00:00:00Z It’s like I can see his jaw tighten from across the street. Pride 2018-09-18T00:00:00Z I kind of tightened up, thinking BO and heavy, repugnant grease, but she came away smiling. Anthem of a Reluctant Prophet 2007-04-30T00:00:00Z Spray stung the men’s eyes when they went to tighten the ropes holding their boats secure. Son 2012-10-02T00:00:00Z Robert tightened his grip on the wheel as he steered into the parking lot. The Parker Inheritance 2018-03-27T00:00:00Z I hold on tight to Mami’s ice-cold hand and she tightens her hold on mine. Before We Were Free 2002-08-13T00:00:00Z The Commander’s grip tightens on my upper arm. The Handmaid's Tale 1985-01-01T00:00:00Z She tightens her hold on her cup and I can feel her mood starting to shift. The Sun Is Also a Star 2016-11-01T00:00:00Z Winter tightened our heads with a band of cold and melted our eyes. The Bluest Eye 1970-01-01T00:00:00Z The straps tighten around my midsection, and Zeke slides me forward, to the edge of the roof. Divergent 2011-04-25T00:00:00Z Not sure what to say, I simply said, “Yes, sir,” my grip tightening in his hand. The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates 2010-04-27T00:00:00Z Brows twitch; her lips tighten; she breathes deep. Ghost Boys 2018-04-17T00:00:00Z Watching her, Mrs. Glass, who happened to be a great judge of young girls’ figures and young girls’ walks, once again, in lieu of a smile, tightened her lips a bit. Franny and Zooey 1961-09-14T00:00:00Z He reached for his mother’s hand and felt her fingers tighten around his. Shooting Kabul 2010-06-22T00:00:00Z Perhaps she had come to register a death, and her words merely the lonely lashings-out of grief, but he felt the familiar tightening of panic in his chest. Americanah 2013-05-14T00:00:00Z “Not anymore,” panted Harry, tightening his grip on the hawthorn wand. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows 2007-07-21T00:00:00Z So I crouched lower and tightened my fingers around the wok handle. City of the Plague God 2021-01-12T00:00:00Z I flinched at the crack of the coachman’s whip, my swollen throat tightening uncontrollably. The City Beautiful 2021-10-05T00:00:00Z She felt his fingers tighten on her shoulders, and she wondered if he were imprinting himself on her: Would the mark of his hands be visible? Ash 2009-01-01T00:00:00Z He could feel the threadmaster’s breath in his ear as he worked at tightening the thread. The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup and a Spool of Thread 2003-08-25T00:00:00Z My stomach lurched and tightened and lurched again. Summer of the Mariposas 2012-10-20T00:00:00Z His fingers tightened on the hammer’s carved wooden handle. Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky 2019-10-15T00:00:00Z Her grip tightens on the bag, but she doesn’t say anything. A Mango-Shaped Space 2003-04-16T00:00:00Z I felt my throat muscles begin to tighten as if they were trying to crawl away from the point. Dragonwings 1975-01-01T00:00:00Z Thomas felt a wire of nervousness tighten inside him, pinching his gut. The Maze Runner 2009-10-06T00:00:00Z It was a deadlock; he could not tighten his hold, John could not break it. Go Tell It on the Mountain 1953-05-18T00:00:00Z I’d only half finished putting my leg on and hadn’t tightened up the laces, but I was so frightened, I started walking to the door. Ugly 2013-08-20T00:00:00Z Billy’s stomach tightened and he took deep breaths. 145th Street: Short Stories 2001-01-01T00:00:00Z She sat down, her fingers tightening on the container. The Contender 1967-01-01T00:00:00Z You see, the river didn’t fall away beneath Nettle; it tightened around her! The Wild Robot 2016-04-05T00:00:00Z Neel’s stomach tightened around the small amount of rice he’d managed to swallow. Tiger Boy 2015-10-01T00:00:00Z A scream rose in her throat as her attacker’s grip tightened, but it was muffled in the din of the crowds around her. Beasts of Prey 2021-09-28T00:00:00Z So I tried that, but the thought spiral kept tightening anyway. Turtles All the Way Down 2017-10-10T00:00:00Z Ofglen says some other people got out that way, by pretending to be Jewish, but it wasn’t easy because of the tests they gave you and they’ve tightened up on that now. The Handmaid's Tale 1985-01-01T00:00:00Z I can see in the corner of my eye that her hand is tightening around the gun. Dry 2018-10-02T00:00:00Z His long locks were tightened and wrapped into a bun behind his head, and he wore a dignified blazer over a T-shirt and whitewashed jeans. Shadowshaper 2015-06-30T00:00:00Z Her bare legs tightened around the dragon’s neck. A Dance with Dragons 2011-07-12T00:00:00Z Her throat tightened as her eyes finally found what Mama’s already had. Beasts of Prey 2021-09-28T00:00:00Z He tightened the cloth mask around his face. The Kill Order (Maze Runner, Book Four; Origin) 2012-08-14T00:00:00Z But I saw his knuckles tighten convulsively on the wheel. Twilight 2005-10-05T00:00:00Z A panic attack is coming on; my chest is tightening, my face is burning up, my skin and scalp are itchy. They Both Die at the End 2017-09-05T00:00:00Z Sometimes, as she sat knitting, aware that William’s eyes were on her face, she felt her breath tightening in a way that was strange and not unpleasant. The Witch of Blackbird Pond 1958-12-01T00:00:00Z I imagined my brother tied to a chair at the school, a flock of grey-hooded villains tightening his beaded chains while they recited Hail Mary like synchronized swimmers. The Marrow Thieves 2017-05-10T00:00:00Z Before Dad could say anything else, I took a step away and tightened my lips. Warcross 2017-09-12T00:00:00Z Maribel closed her eyes, and I tightened my hold on her. The Book of Unknown Americans 2014-06-03T00:00:00Z The sun disappeared and the cold tightened its fist. Salt to the Sea 2016-02-02T00:00:00Z I tug my hand back, but his grip tightens. Divergent 2011-04-25T00:00:00Z I thought again of the accident and the knot in my stomach tightened. Doing Time Online 2002-01-01T00:00:00Z In the kitchen, while Molly cleans out cabinets and Jack tightens the latches on the screen door, they discuss what Sarah and her family might want to do on the island. Orphan Train 2013-04-02T00:00:00Z My chest tightens as I imagine what it would be like to walk into a strange new place, filled with other people’s old toys and extra bedding, and have to call it home. Amina's Song 2021-03-09T00:00:00Z With each step, her grip on the strap of her burlap shoulder bag reflexively tightened. Beasts of Prey 2021-09-28T00:00:00Z Lupita saw a muscle at the corner of her brother’s jaw tighten. Lupita Mañana 1981-03-21T00:00:00Z “You call that quiet?” she asked, tightening the loop with a tug. The Mysterious Benedict Society 2008-04-01T00:00:00Z I pulled the needle out and then gave the thread a gentle jerk to tighten it. The Glass Castle 2005-03-01T00:00:00Z She tried to kick him, but he only tightened his grip. Inkheart 2003-09-23T00:00:00Z I suddenly felt very small, as if my skin was tightening and I was actually shrinking. A Mango-Shaped Space 2003-04-16T00:00:00Z Catelyn Stark wished she could read the thoughts that hid behind each face, each furrowed brow and pair of tightened lips. A Clash of Kings 1998-11-16T00:00:00Z She felt his belly tighten under her, hard as a board. The God of Small Things 1997-01-01T00:00:00Z Thomas tightened the straps on his backpack, held his makeshift fighting spear tightly in his right fist. The Maze Runner 2009-10-06T00:00:00Z I tightened the bandage around my foot, picked up my gun, and followed my squad to ambush the attackers before they got anywhere near our village. A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier 2007-02-13T00:00:00Z The women hoist their noses, tighten their mouths and turn their faces away. Angela's Ashes: A Memoir 1996-09-05T00:00:00Z He held the fish against the sky until it stopped wiggling, hdd it and looked to the sky and felt his throat tighten, swell, and fill with pride at what he had done. Hatchet 1987-01-01T00:00:00Z A twitch of muscles tightened in Jimmy’s face. We'll Fly Away 2018-05-08T00:00:00Z I tighten the grip on the abaya still gathered around my hips and look at her. Saints and Misfits 2017-06-13T00:00:00Z He glimpsed black hands buried in white fur, swollen dark fingers tightening around his direwolf's throat. A Game of Thrones 1997-08-04T00:00:00Z I tightened my grip on my father’s hand. Night 1955-01-01T00:00:00Z “I was a good girl her age. Never gave a speck of trouble. I did everything anybody told me to. Till I got here. City make you tighten up.” Jazz 1992-01-01T00:00:00Z I stop in my tracks, fingers tightening around my gun. Shiloh 1991-01-01T00:00:00Z She looked both surprised and embarrassed as she pulled her robe closed and tightened the belt. Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus 2017-09-05T00:00:00Z The United Nations Security Council had passed a new resolution to tighten the monitoring and enforcement of sanctions against the Taliban. Shooting Kabul 2010-06-22T00:00:00Z Downstairs the knot of impatience would be tightening in the kitchen, while the minutes she was planning to spend alone with her brother were running out. Atonement 2001-09-20T00:00:00Z She grabbed him, grabbed his shoulders and pulled him right up against her and tightened her arms around him. Song of Solomon 1977-01-01T00:00:00Z My pants felt loose around the waist, so I tightened the belt another notch. Breaking Through 2001-08-27T00:00:00Z And I don’t want her to feel frightened, to feel the fear that is now tightening my muscles, tensing my spine, pulling me so taut that I’m certain I would break if touched. The Handmaid's Tale 1985-01-01T00:00:00Z We move closer together like sections of a tightened shoelace. Allegiant 2013-10-22T00:00:00Z Beto started to protest, but Naomi shook her head and tightened her grip on his shoulder. Out of Darkness 2015-09-01T00:00:00Z They forced her to stand on a wooden box, gagged her, tied her arms behind her back, and tightened a noose around her neck. Escape from Camp 14: One Man's Remarkable Odyssey from North Korea to Freedom in the West 2013-03-26T00:00:00Z He bent down to tighten the lacings on a puttee. A Separate Peace 1959-01-01T00:00:00Z His arms tightened around Ivy, his eyes never leaving Mom. Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World 2018-03-06T00:00:00Z She tightens her lips over her braces, trying to look tough, but she looks ridiculous. A Good Kind of Trouble 2019-03-12T00:00:00Z In 1605, Paul V had been elected Pope, and he made a determined effort to extend the authority of the Church and tighten the papal grip on Catholic states. The Scientists 2003-10-21T00:00:00Z They were betraying her by wobbling, so she forced fortitude to her legs, tightening her muscles. Scythe 2016-11-22T00:00:00Z I stared at Grandma’s face, and my fingers tightened on the sleeve of my pajamas. Red Scarf Girl: A Memoir of the Cultural Revolution 1998-01-01T00:00:00Z There were hard bulges under the canvas that tightened in the rain. A Farewell To Arms 1929-09-02T00:00:00Z His fingers brushed lightly over her budding breasts and tightened on a nipple. A Game of Thrones 1997-08-04T00:00:00Z It shifted, tightening itself into a more compact coil, looking more like it was defending territory than getting ready to leave. Anya and the Dragon 2019-09-24T00:00:00Z Alfred tried it, coming up slowly, inch by inch, fighting to keep his legs straight and his heels on the mat as his shoulders began to quiver and the muscles in his stomach tightened painfully. The Contender 1967-01-01T00:00:00Z But instead of being on a table the pigs were arranged on a long black container, and as I started to realize what it was the fingers propelling my legs tightened and moved me closer. The Pigman 1968-10-12T00:00:00Z He tightened his grip on my arm and lowered his head some more. Just Mercy 2014-10-21T00:00:00Z Rowan tightened the grip on his blade as he looked into the curate’s bleary, half-conscious eyes. Scythe 2016-11-22T00:00:00Z And when his eyes flickered, her heart tightened. Throne of Glass 2012-08-07T00:00:00Z In the factory the silence swooped down once more and tightened around the twins. The God of Small Things 1997-01-01T00:00:00Z I could see him wince with each click of the chains being tightened around his waist. Just Mercy 2014-10-21T00:00:00Z I tightened the straps on my backpack and held the front screen door open with my foot. The Honest Truth 2014-10-07T00:00:00Z Her jaw tightened, and she turned back to her brochures, muttering, "I came to New York to see New York and isn't nobody going to stop me." Me Talk Pretty One Day 2000-05-02T00:00:00Z It was the first Tuesday in February and his breath was visible as he tightened the belt around his blouse. The Great Santini 1976-01-01T00:00:00Z He felt Jan’s fingers tighten about his own. Native Son 1940-03-01T00:00:00Z I took one look at the RV’s rusted bones and immediately turned away, my hand tightening around Zu’s gloves. The Darkest Minds 2012-12-18T00:00:00Z Hand tightening on the antler club, brandishing it, growling, she flung herself upon him and bit the top of his nose. Julie of the Wolves 1972-01-01T00:00:00Z Even though Bigger had asked Gus to be with him in the robbery, the fear that Gus would really go made the muscles of Bigger’s stomach tighten; he was hot all over. Native Son 1940-03-01T00:00:00Z Mia’s back was still to them, the water rushing over her hands, but all four of the children saw it: a slight stiffening of her posture, as if a string had been tightened. Little Fires Everywhere 2017-09-12T00:00:00Z My little sister and I did our part with Mr. Fenchel, and it is one of those memories of shame that still makes me break into a sweat and tighten up around the throat. East of Eden 1952-09-01T00:00:00Z He held his hand higher and tightened his grip, and they could see the tremor in his fingers exaggerated by the bar. Atonement 2001-09-20T00:00:00Z The bronze strands were still wrapping around him like a cocoon, tightening across his body. The Battle of the Labyrinth 2008-05-06T00:00:00Z His face tightened, like he was about to do something adults found uncomfortable, like plunge a toilet, or apologize to a kid. Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky 2019-10-15T00:00:00Z I can’t hear all of his words, but I can see George’s lips tighten into a grim line. The One and Only Ivan 2012-01-17T00:00:00Z She tightened her grip and leaned closer to me. The Old Willis Place 2004-09-20T00:00:00Z His eyes widened and his white hands tightened around the Paper. When the Sea Turned to Silver 2016-10-04T00:00:00Z My waistband tightens to the point where I feel like I’m gonna bust a button on my pants. Like Vanessa 2018-03-13T00:00:00Z As the Nazis tightened their grip on Kraków, Jews were barraged with all kinds of insulting caricatures. The Boy on the Wooden Box 2013-08-27T00:00:00Z Shadrach put his hand to his throat as if some constriction had suddenly tightened it, but he answered the smile. Across Five Aprils 1964-01-01T00:00:00Z It is almost impossible to tighten the orbicularis oculi, pars orbitalis on demand, and it is equally difficult to stop it from tightening when we smile at something genuinely pleasurable. Blink 2005-01-11T00:00:00Z Obinze secured the washing machines at the back, tightening the straps until they were snug, and then climbed in and studied the map to find the shortest routes to their delivery addresses. Americanah 2013-05-14T00:00:00Z Then, for a second, there were Ben and his father, eye to eye, as intimate as lovers, and the fingers tightened on the throat and Ben gagged. The Great Santini 1976-01-01T00:00:00Z He tipped out the plastic jar of hardware and sorted out a bolt to thread into the fitting of the junction and then tightened it down. The Road 2006-09-28T00:00:00Z It was a lonely, lonely sound, but so clear, so beautiful that I tightened my arms against my sides to keep from shaking, perhaps shattering. Jacob Have I Loved 1980-01-01T00:00:00Z She straightened her shoulders and tightened her grip on the gun and fired. Time Bomb 2018-03-13T00:00:00Z |
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