Everything I Learned From Reading YA Fantasy for One Month

Here, in no particular order, is everything I learned from reading YA fantasy novels for the better part of one month:

1. Ten years ago something big happened. A life-changing event or a war. Ten years later after stewing on this and nothing else for a decade, it’s time to act.
2. If a character is an orphan they are probably also a monarch in hiding/disguise or a lesser god. Possibly both.
3. Do not get distracted by the luxuries found in the castle or manor house. Don’t do it.
4. The heroine will probably be involved with brothers who are the love interest and the villain.
5. The love interest and the villain might be the same person.
6. Magic is never free.
7. Favors are never free.
8. In fact, nothing is ever free. Everything is really expensive in fantasy worlds and debts are dangerous. You have been warned.
9. There may be dancing or at least a party where someone gets to wear a fancy gown.
10. The main character will inherit something. It will not be what they expect.
11. There will be a quirky animal sidekick or a plucky best friend. Not both.
12. There will be pining.
13. If anyone loses something of great sentimental value they are not getting it back. Unless it’s the key to unlocking their powers and/or their mysterious origins. Then they’re definitely getting it back.
14. Two characters will kiss. That may or may not be a good thing.
15. Even if it feels like the absolute worst thing has happened, at least 80% of the cast will be back for book two.