Do Readers Prefer Happy or Sad Ending

[CassieQ]

6 hours ago, Jason Rimbaud said:

In reading all the comments, the question I asked was flawed. Though I do have the answer I needed and @CassieQ said it best, happy or sad it must be satisfying. 

I was thinking of this earlier and have an example of an unsatisfying ending.  I was reading a book that had a very beautiful,  tragic wrap up that I was really pleased with.  It hurt in the right way.  But then, during the last chapter or the epilouge, I can't remember which, the author basically wiped away everything prior that had happened and  completely changed the narrative to make a more upbeat, happy ending.  I absolutely hated that she did that and still think it was a cowardly out.  My sister, who recommended the book, liked the ending so that it was less depressing.   

[Jason Rimbaud]

33 minutes ago, CassieQ said:

I was thinking of this earlier and have an example of an unsatisfying ending.  I was reading a book that had a very beautiful,  tragic wrap up that I was really pleased with.  It hurt in the right way.  But then, during the last chapter or the epilouge, I can't remember which, the author basically wiped away everything prior that had happened and  completely changed the narrative to make a more upbeat, happy ending.  I absolutely hated that she did that and still think it was a cowardly out.  My sister, who recommended the book, liked the ending so that it was less depressing.   

I am in agreement with you, epilogue's rarely work for me, they tend to undo all that has gone before. Not always, but more than not, epilogue's can easily ruin the ending, especially when it's not to tease a sequel but instead when it's used to put that irresistible bow on the narrative. 

On a different note, can I open your brain and get more tidbits from you, asking for a friend of course.