What are the six essential action-genre story beats? The lack of which strips the novel of both genre and story?
For the recent Sci-Fi and Fantasy Writers event, Savannah Gilbo summed up exactly what we need. I went through this list and found my upcoming YA adventure, Kamsen Knights, hits all the necessary beats.
1. An incident occurs that threatens the life of the protagonist
While Yari Tamm goes about her investigation, the gang of thieves she encountered in the opening hook returns. These paid assassins work for the Old Houses and want her dead.
2. The protagonist semi-engages with the conflict or antagonist but lacks the full picture
Yari knows little of the Old Houses or why they want her dead, but it’s connected to her mission. She expands her investigation in the hope of finding more clues.
3. Our protagonist understands the true nature of the antagonist and the clock counts down
Yari’s meeting with House Dovatra reveals why she’s on a kill list. Malice and spite. Yari discovers an implacable enemy who will stop at nothing to get revenge.
4. The protagonist hits an ‘all is lost’ moment when it seems nothing works and they can’t beat the insurmountable odds.
The Old Houses attack Yari’s foster family and her friends. Her allies bicker over past enmities.
The Old Houses hold all the cards; power, influence, money. They have a cadre of mercenaries to do their dirty work.
5. The protagonist faces the antagonist and uses their special skill or talent to survive
I’ve a double threat in Kamsen Knights. Yari discovers she’s a truth-sayer and resists the mind-bending powers of the Brotherhood. She takes this resistance to heart and defeats her nemesis from the Old Houses.
6. The protagonist gains a reward for their sacrifice.
In the epilogue, Yari uncovers the evidence she needs to fulfill her quest.
More than a single genre
In truth, Kamsen Knights is framed as a coming-of-age or world-view story within the action-adventure genre. But the six essential action-genre story beats fit perfectly.
The action of the external plot ties in with Yari’s internal arc of active resistance. Not that she was ever a passive bystander.