Redemption

The dreaded villain, now redeemed, to the reader. They embark on a journey of self-discovery and redemption. Often a heavy heart burdened by past wrongdoings. He seeks to atone for his sins and make amends with those he has wronged.

Do Readers Find Redemption Possible?

 Is this possible to do and can the reader believe in this person? This question is one thing the villain must overcome in a good book. To convince the reader of their transformation.

Why does the Villan Transform?

 In some stories, this is of their own accord or because of a love interest, they want to become a better person. But can they be in the eyes of the reader?

Chaos and Turmoil

In his pursuit of righteousness, he wrestles with the internal turmoil of his former ruthlessness, conflicting with his newfound desire to do good. This often results in chaos in the villain’s mind or maybe some of his actions to others.

On his path, he confronts unforeseen difficulties and establishes improbable connections. Some connections are as odd as relationships the reader would never suspect. Ultimately showing that even the most unlikely places can offer redemption to the darkest of souls.

The Change

Is this the type of character that some readers find enticing to read about? Are some readers forgiving of a character’s past? When the character has done bad things, but then turns into a good guy. This can be difficult to reconcile for some readers. Then there is the reader that is forgiving and realizes anyone can change, even a villain given the reason to become a good person. If the character changes because of love, that falls into the age-old trap of a woman thinking she can change a man. Or is she such a good person, he wants to be better?

The Plot

Does the plot help with this change in the characters’ behavior? While the plot line does carry the characters along in the storyline. Sometimes, though, the characters do what they want rather than following the plotted out story. Here it is possible the villain took a route the writer did not plan  but works to make an interesting story.