Hi folks,

For the past few weeks I’ve been conducting a loose poll about how readers and writers feel about cliffhangers.   I did it in a way that allowed folks to express an opinion, not just say yes or no.  The results were interesting, to say the least.

The overwhelming majority of folks who checked in (over 76) aren’t impressed with cliffhangers at the end of a book, TV show, or Movie.  Most say it’s a cheat, many refuse to follow along and abandon the series, or wait until it’s been completed then binge on it.  They are okay with, and even enjoy, a cliffhanger at the end of a chapter, but not at the end of a book.  Many were quite passionate about how much they hate them.

Some people seemed to be okay with them, or at least don’t seem to mind them so much.  There were even a few who were quite passionate about how much they love cliffhangers.  Nine, actually.  I checked, they’re all writers.

They say cliffhangers increase sales, the results here would seem to deny that statement.

As for me, I’ve never liked them, they irritate me.  If you’re telling me a story, finish it, dang it.  I’m okay, and so are a lot of readers, with leaving a few hints of things to come, but finish the main thread of the book.

So, there  it is, the people have spoken.  Cliffhangers won’t be appearing in any of my books.  Yes, there may be more for the characters to do in future stories, but each book will come to a satisfactory conclusion…. and that concludes this post. tee hee

Happy Reading

Pru