Often, plots for fantasy novels start with a sense of unease or a problem in the protagonist's life. It could be that they feel out of place in their own community, like Eragon in 'Eragon' who was different from the other villagers. This internal conflict can then lead to external adventures when they discover the source of their difference is related to a greater, magical world. Or it could start with a prophecy being revealed. This prophecy then becomes the driving force for the character's actions throughout the novel.
Coincidental love stories can start when two people are in the wrong place at the right time. Say, they both show up at a closed - down restaurant but end up going to another place nearby together and start talking. They find they have an instant connection, which could be the start of a love story.
Often, they start with a chance encounter. It could be something as simple as bumping into each other on the street or being seated next to each other on a plane. This initial meeting sets the stage for the relationship to develop.
Often, they begin with a moment of self - realization. Maybe it's seeing someone of the same sex in a different light, like noticing their beauty or charm in a more than just friendly way. For instance, an adult might be at work and suddenly find themselves attracted to a colleague of the same gender.
Fantasy dragon novels frequently depict dragons as intelligent beings. They may have their own language, culture, and society. In 'The Inheritance Cycle', the dragons are shown to be sentient and have complex relationships with humans. They can also be territorial and protective of their lairs. Some novels also portray dragons as symbols of power or mystery. For instance, in 'The Hobbit', Smaug is a symbol of the dwarves' lost glory and the danger that lurks in the Lonely Mountain. Dragons are sometimes also presented as having a connection to magic or the spiritual world. In many stories, they are associated with ancient prophecies or are guardians of great treasures.
Medical fantasy novels may also have characters with special powers that are used for healing. These powers could be based on elements like nature, light, or even the manipulation of souls. It's like taking the idea of a doctor's skills and supercharging them with fantasy elements. For instance, a character might be able to heal by transferring their own life force to another, which is a very fantasy - driven medical concept.
At the beginning of a period novel, there would usually be a background story that explained the time, place, and characters of the story. At the same time, it would also lay the foundation for the development of the subsequent plot. Here are some common ways to start a period novel: 1. Introduction of the main character: The main character of a period novel is usually introduced at the beginning, such as "This hero is XXX in history who fought against evil forces in ancient times". This can attract the attention of the reader and let the reader have a preliminary understanding of the background and character of the main character. Setting up the background: Ancient costume novels usually set up a background story at the beginning to explain the time, space, location, characters, and other information of the story. For example," In ancient times, the whole world was ruled by seven powerful empires." This would allow the readers to have an understanding of the background of the story and lay the foundation for the development of the subsequent plot. 3. Draw out the villain: The villain in a period novel would usually be drawn out at the beginning, such as " This evil force will launch a great disaster in ancient times and plunge the whole world into chaos." This can attract the reader's attention and give the reader a preliminary understanding of the villain's image. 4. Description of the environment: Ancient costume novels usually describe the surrounding environment at the beginning, such as " In ancient times, the world was a desolate desert, and only a few small shops survived." This could allow the readers to have an understanding of the environment of the story and provide reference for the development of the subsequent plot. 5. Draw out the plot: The period novels usually draw out the main plot of the story at the beginning, such as "In this mysterious time and space, a legendary hero will come to save the world". This can attract the reader's attention and let the reader have a preliminary understanding of the plot and theme of the story.
Often, they start by introducing the main character who is about to enter or has just entered the academy. For example, in 'Harry Potter', Harry gets his Hogwarts letter. Then, there are usually challenges within the academy like difficult classes or mean classmates. In 'The Magicians', Quentin has to deal with the cut - throat competition at Brakebills. Next, a big overarching mystery or threat emerges, such as Voldemort in 'Harry Potter' or the Beast in 'The Magicians'. The characters then grow and develop as they try to face this threat, learning new skills and making friends or enemies along the way.
In quest fantasy novels, the plot usually starts with the introduction of a goal or a quest. For example, in 'The Lord of the Rings', Frodo is given the task of destroying the One Ring. Then, the character sets out on a journey, facing various obstacles like enemies, difficult terrains, and magical challenges. Along the way, they may meet allies or enemies that further shape the plot.
In fantasy quest novels, the plot often begins with a problem or a goal. This could be something like finding a lost artifact or saving a kingdom. The characters then start their journey. As they progress, they meet new allies and enemies. They might have to solve puzzles or overcome their own weaknesses. For instance, in 'The Hobbit', Bilbo has to deal with his fear as he faces trolls, goblins, and the dragon Smaug during his quest.
The reason is that failure provides a foundation for self-reflection and improvement. It humbles people and makes them appreciate success when it finally comes. Also, it showcases their ability to adapt and keep going in the face of setbacks.