I’m sure I’ve hit on this before, but what do you think about endings (book endings, that is)? I, personally, am a sucker for a good ending.

Here’s what I think makes a good ending:
1) All loose ends are tied up.
2) It is satisfying, meaning it makes sense and puts an exclamation point on the book.
3) It doesn’t have to be happy, but if it’s sad it better not be pointless.
4) It leaves you with a smile on your face or a thought in your head for some time to come.

Few things are as frustrating to me as reading a book only to have it fizzle at the end or have it end in some pointless, inane way. To me, endings are one of the most critical parts of a book. The last paragraph, even the last sentence of the book is the one that I feel must be crafted the best and with the most care.

I was recently asked to write a blurb for another book. Only, I was just given the beginning of the book. I can appreciate a fellow author being aware of the preciousness of my time, but really? How can I write a blurb about a book (obviously saying I like it), without knowing how it ends?

Is it just me? I don’t know. So, please, feel free to share your views on endings. I’d love to hear what you have to say.