Writing the end of a novel is always tricky.  There are all types of loose ends that need tied up, plot lines that need to intersect, character arcs that need to reach some kind of conclusion.  It's far too easy to feel overwhelmed as you near the last page.  What if you drop one of those plot threads completely?  What if they're too twisted up to unravel?  What if your finale is clunky?

In the middle, when I sit down to do my plotting, I make sure to write out a list of questions that need answered, as well as story arcs that need some kind of completion.  And as I write, I try to remember to add to this list when another plot point spontaneously emerges, as they often do.  That way, when I reach the final chapters of the story, I can refer to that list when I worry I've forgotten something.  This list of questions also makes it easier to keep my story on track as I write it, making sure each scene addresses one of those key points.  When I reach the end and all of those questions have been resolved, or at least addressed (to be continued in another book), then I know I've done my job. 

Now that doesn't mean the story is perfect.  In fact, it's usually far from it.  I always go through at least three drafts, in addition to asking my trusty writing group partners to read it and provide me with their input.  Then it's off to my agent or editor, depending, and they always have more edits for me.  I'm grateful for these.  They always make the story better.  And that's the goal - to make my novel the best it can be, not stroke my ego. 

But I can tell you, finishing each and every draft is very satisfying - a minor victory to be celebrated in some way.  Because in that moment I've won.  I've battled with those words and come out on top.  I raise a glass, or savor some chocolate.

And then I start the process all over again.