Hi, everyone!

I'm at work, but I'm setting up some posts in advance so I can participate before I get home. I'll be here to respond to comments and check out the other posts later this afternoon and evening (though my daughter has an away soccer game that will take me away again! 🙁 ).

First, as a romantic adventure author, I thought I'd talk about why crime and punishment novels—either romantic suspense, mystery, thriller, or anything else that falls in this category—are so appealing to both readers and writers.

There are the obvious factors:

1.  Justice is always served, unlike in real life.

2.  Puzzles are fun to solve.

3.  It's also fun to be surprised when you can't figure out the puzzle.

4.  Hunky, competent heroes. Yum.

5.  Heroines who kick ass, literally or figuratively.

For me, the main reason I love these books is the stakes. On one hand, life-or-death situations are as intense as you can get. On the other hand, love raises a life-or-death situation to a whole new level.

What do you think? What do you love about crime-and-punishment novels, and what kind are your favorite?

I have a whole slew of giveaways today! One commenter (randomly chosen from any of my posts) will receive a digital advance reader copy of Acceptable Risks. EVERY commenter will receive some type of author/book swag (while supplies last). AND, if I get over 20 comments total (not including my own), a separate winner will receive a $10 Amazon gift card! Comments on any of my posts will count. One swag item per commenter. Please leave your e-mail address with your comment so I can contact you, or be sure to check back to see if you're a winner.