Guest Blog Post #1

Hi guys:

I got your question Cynthia. What would it take for a romantic suspence query to peak my interest enough to ask for more?

Well that’s a two part question that you’re asking. The reason I say this is because I look for content first, meaning what your story is about. But in finding out what your story is about I also pay attention to how you pitch it. I swoon when I find someone who not only knows how to tell a good story, but can explain it well. Too many times I get letters from people comparing themself to multi-published, best selling authors. The trouble with that is it doesn’t give me a fair overview of your work. Then they give me a ho-hum plot that I’ve read before many times.

Now to brass tacks: I’d like to see romantic suspense that are heavier on the suspense side with a strong romance vein running through it. The main focus of the story would be suspense with strong romantic elements. I’m open to a number of topics, but to give you some idea about what I’m into these days, I’ve been addicted to shows like 24 and Prison Break, The Shield and The Closer. Of course they’re mostly suspense with lots of action, but if I had my way, Jack and Audrey would find a way to be together, Michael and Sarah would have some hot and heavy on-the-run sex, Dutch would find someone other than Vic’s wife to date and Brenda would dump the FBI guy and have a hot fling with an actor. And if you have no idea what I’m talking about, my apologies for launching into geek-speak.

Also note: I’m not looking for romantic suspense authors at the moment b/c I have some fabulous ones on my list already. But if a query comes in that is really fresh and exciting, I will take a look.

Hope this helps and keep those questions coming.

C.