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The quest for redemption works great as a plot driver in dark fantasy which I'll define tomorrow. Often the book plots that stay with the longest are the ones where the hero traveled a long journey of challenges and eventually becomes the person we'd hoped he be though changed by the sorrows and loses he suffered along the path. If he never makes the correct choice, never reaches the point of redemption, the reader may feel cheated. The reader can be left with a nagging feeling the story wasn't complete.
Do you enjoy books where the main character searches for redemption? Have you read a book you enjoyed where the hero or heroine never managed to find their final redemption?
11 comments:
I like redemption stories best when the hero is the only one who thinks he needs it, when what he really needs is to recognize his worthiness.
I don't mind if redemption doesn't come in the first book of a series, because in fantasy it's often a very long journey. :) But don't hold it off *too* long!
I'm writing a redemption story for one of my characters in my fantasy series. I think he'll manage to get back on track by the end of the second book. Definitely by the end of the third.
I like to think sorrow and suffering help people change for the better - but I think sometimes it goes the other way, and that makes an interesting story too.
I think that kind of hero appeals to all of us. We'd like to think that no matter what our shortcomings, we can overcome and grow into a better person.
Both of my books have to do with redemption so I obviously enjoy this theme.
yes i have read ones where they never seem to find redemption--i don't have a preference unless the mc is a man in his early adulthood up to 40's then they must find redemption---long story---great idea
The fantasy trilogy by John Dickinson (can't remember the name of it . . . the first book was The Cup of the World, at any rate) had characters who never seemed to find redemption, despite all they'd experienced. It was a bit frustrating, but I liked the books nonetheless.
The Golden Eagle
The Eagle's Aerial Perspective
working on finishing the wheel of time series. will rand ever finish his journey & save the world?!
I do like some redemption stories. Not a big fan if the hero is twisted or truly dark at the beginning - but if he's flawed or tortured by some memories, then I'm in! :)
Redemption can be a powerful theme and motivation. And like Natalie pointed out, there are several angles that can be taken with redemption. It's a good tool to keep in mind when writing.
Love redemption stories.
Tales of the Golstone Wood is a wonderful fantasy series by Anne Elisabeth Stengl.
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