good ways to end a horror story

Ending with a sense of unresolved mystery can be effective too. Maybe the source of the horror is never fully explained, like a strange noise in the attic that just stops, leaving the characters and the reader in a state of unease, wondering what it really was. This makes the horror linger in the reader's mind long after they've finished the story.

One way is to have the protagonist defeat the evil force. For example, if it's a haunted house story, the main character could find the source of the haunting, like an old cursed object, and destroy it. This gives a sense of victory and closure.

One great way is with a sudden twist. For example, the main character who thought they had escaped the horror realizes they are actually still trapped in a never - ending nightmare. It gives the reader a shock and makes them re - think the whole story.

Another way is to end it with a glimmer of hope. After all the horror, there's a small sign that things might get better. However, this hope should be tenuous, like a single ray of light in a pitch - black room filled with monsters. It adds a bit of relief but still keeps the overall horror tone intact.

One good way is to end with a sense of resolution. For example, in a mystery story, the detective finally reveals who the culprit is and how the crime was committed. This gives the reader a feeling of closure. Another way is with a moral or lesson. If it's a fable, the end could show what the characters learned from their experiences, like 'And so the little hare learned that overconfidence can lead to defeat.' A third way could be an open - ended finish that makes the reader think. Maybe the main character is about to embark on a new adventure, leaving the reader to wonder what will happen next.

One good way is with a final, tragic death. For example, the protagonist, who has been haunted by the dark secrets of the old mansion throughout the story, finally succumbs to the evil forces within it. This gives a sense of inescapable doom which is typical in gothic stories.

Another way is to end the love story with a sense of acceptance. The couple has faced many challenges and differences that they couldn't overcome. Instead of fighting or resenting each other, they accept that their love has run its course and part with a mutual understanding and respect.

You can end a story with a cliffhanger if you plan on writing a sequel. It keeps the readers interested and eager for more. However, this should be done carefully as it can also frustrate some readers if not handled well.

Ending with a moment of self - realization can be great. Suppose a character has been very selfish throughout the story. At the end, they see how their actions have affected others and make a decision to change. This gives a feeling of growth and hope. You can write something like 'She looked at the mess she had made of people's lives and for the first time, she understood. She would be different from now on.'

One good way is with a sudden disappearance of the ghost. For example, just as the main character is about to confront the ghost, it vanishes into thin air, leaving behind only a cold breeze. This creates a sense of mystery and unease.