20 upcoming YA books we can’t wait to read in 2020

House of Dragons – Jessica Cluess

Fill the Game of Thrones-shaped hole in your life with House of Dragons, the newest novel from author Jessica Cluess. Cluess’ first trilogy, the Kingdom on Fire saga that kicked off with A Shadow Bright and Burning, followed the story of a young woman in a magical Victorian-era England who can burst into flames and must help fend off a group of Eldritch-horror monsters called Ancients that seek to destroy her home.

The Kingdom on Fire books not only featured a fresh and appealing heroine, but unique takes on lots of genre standards like the idea of a designated magical “chosen one” and the love triangle that often dominates these stories. In short, the story of Henrietta Howell was both fun and refreshing and I can’t wait to see what Cluess will do in her next trilogy.

Which also, if you couldn’t tell features a lot of dragons. Bring it on.

In true Game of Thrones style, House of Dragons features five royal houses competing to inherit the Dragon Throne of Etrusia. But this time, rather than the oldest, most prepared child, five outcasts will answer the call.

The official synopsis breaks down the characters we can expect to meet.

"When the Emperor dies, the five royal houses of Etrusia attend the Call, where one of their own will be selected to compete for the throne. It is always the oldest child, the one who has been preparing for years to compete in the Trial. But this year is different. This year, these five outcasts will answer the call…. THE LIAR: Emilia must hide her dark magic or be put to death. THE SOLDIER: Lucian is a warrior who has sworn to never lift a sword again. THE SERVANT: Vespir is a dragon trainer whose skills alone will keep her in the game. THE THIEF: Ajax knows that nothing is free–he must take what he wants. THE MURDERER: Hyperia was born to rule and will stop at nothing to take her throne."

House of Dragons is available on May 12.