Antony West (Author)

The ending of your story is your last chance to leave a lasting impression on your reader. A compelling ending ties up loose ends (or leaves satisfying ambiguity), provides a sense of closure (even if bittersweet), and resonates with the themes explored throughout your narrative. It should feel earned, a natural culmination of the events and character arcs, rather than a forced or out-of-the-blue conclusion. Whether it’s a dramatic showdown, a quiet moment of reflection, or a thought-provoking twist, the ending must provide emotional and intellectual satisfaction. It’s what readers remember most, and it shapes their overall experience of your work. What makes an ending truly satisfying for you as a reader?