Another aspect of high stakes in fantasy novels is the loss of magic or a special power. If the protagonist fails in their quest, a magical realm might collapse, like in some novels where the source of all magic is in jeopardy. This not only affects the magical beings but also the balance of the entire fictional world.
High stakes can also be the survival of a character or a group. Take 'A Song of Ice and Fire' as an example. The Starks are constantly in danger of being wiped out. Their family's honor, lives, and the future of their house are all at stake, which drives the complex and thrilling plot.
High stakes make the story more exciting. Readers are more engaged when they know that the consequences are huge. For instance, if a hero fails to save the princess in a high - stakes situation, it's not just about the two characters but could lead to a war or the end of a kingdom.
Tension - filled narrative. This term emphasizes the presence of high - stakes situations that create a lot of tension, much like in a suspense novel. For example, in a story where a character's life is constantly in danger, the narrative is filled with tension, similar to what we expect in a suspense piece.
The stakes in literary fiction often involve the characters' moral and emotional well - being. For example, in 'To Kill a Mockingbird', the stakes are high for Atticus Finch as he defends an innocent black man in a racially prejudiced society. His reputation, his family's safety, and his own sense of justice are all at stake.
Perhaps it's about a heist. Thieves with quick hands try to steal something valuable in a high - stakes situation. Their actions and the events that unfold would make a great big story, full of danger, intrigue and narrow escapes.
In literary fiction, story stakes can be about relationships. Take 'Pride and Prejudice'. The stakes for Elizabeth Bennet include finding true love and also dealing with her own pride and prejudices. Her future happiness and the social standing of her family are at stake in the choices she makes regarding Mr. Darcy.
The top stories in the Belmont Stakes often include the winning horse and jockey. For example, a Cinderella - like story of an underdog horse winning against all odds can be a top story. Also, any records broken during the race, like the fastest time in the Belmont Stakes history, are major news.
The stakes in a novel are basically what's at risk for the characters. They make the story exciting. If there's nothing to lose or gain, the story can be boring.
The potential for character development. In these fanfictions, the high - stakes game can be a catalyst for both Harry and Draco to grow. They might learn more about each other, their own limits, and how to handle pressure. For example, Draco could start to see Harry in a new light during the intense game, and vice versa. Also, the fast - paced action of the seeker game is always thrilling to read about, with the two flying around on their brooms, chasing the snitch.
You can create stakes by putting the characters in situations where they have a lot to lose. Maybe it's their life, their relationships, or something they deeply care about.
Well, 'The Hobbit' is a great high fantasy novel. It's a prequel to 'The Lord of the Rings' and tells the story of Bilbo Baggins' adventure. Then there's 'Mistborn' by Brandon Sanderson. It has a unique magic system and an interesting plot set in a post - apocalyptic - like fantasy world. And 'The Name of the Wind' by Patrick Rothfuss is also among the top. It follows the story of Kvothe, a very talented and complex character.