Previously in the Finish Your Book series, we discussed some major consequences of publishing a novel with a weak finale —poor sales and reviews amongst the worst of them. So how do you deliver a conclusion that will be both succinct and satisfying to your publisher and fans?
Here are 5 keys to a finale that sings:
1. What’s changed?
If you did a proper setup—presenting a BIG character with a BIG problem—you’ve got the perfect ingredients for a mirrored moment in your conclusion. How has your MC changed? How is their life better (or worse) after the journey they’ve completed? How has this story changed the people and the world around them for better or worse? Show us.
2. What’s the same?
Identify the things that needed to stay the same in your MC’s life, what they’ve accepted, or what could still use changing—but is stable for now. Take the time to allow your MC to smell the roses and count their blessings. There’s always something to celebrate.
3. The moral of the story
What has your MC learned throughout this journey? Often (depending on the story structure you’ve chosen) during that final standoff or battle, the MC will make a statement or have a thought that shows how their perspective on things has changed. This doesn’t have to be overt, but there should be a point to the journey we’ve all been on. Take this opportunity to sow into your reader’s life.
4. A Happy Ending (or not)
Reunite loved ones. Reconcile lovers. Solve the mystery. Satisfy readers by answering the main question: Will they or won’t they? How did it happen and why? These are the things that make a good story a great one. There’s also nothing wrong with your MC not achieving their goal. What really matters is what they (and your reader) gets out of the journey.
5. A Spicy Twist
There’s nothing like an unexpected twist (especially at the end of a thriller series’ first installment) to make readers hungry for more! A new scandal has been uncovered. Just when the mystery’s solved, another question arrives. Spark your readers’ curiosity, and they’ll be hankering for your next book!
Conclusion
With a little effort, you can transform a nice finale into an epic one! All it takes is a little thought and time. Wondering what to avoid when drafting your novel’s conclusion? Check out the next installment of the Finish Your Book Series here.