Mary Burton’s new romantic suspense The Seventh Victim is our February 2013 Romance of the Month, and Romance columnist Christie Ridgway promises a cold case adventure packed with “procedural details, red herrings and spine-chilling danger.”
We chatted with Burton about the romantic suspense genre, her career and much more.
Describe your book in one sentence.
The Seventh Victim features the woman who escaped death, the serial killer who never forgot her and the Texas Ranger determined to let neither escape.
What’s your favorite part of mixing romance and suspense?
It’s just a perfect blend. I love the puzzle of the suspense and the constant wondering of whodunit. And if there is a romance to complicate matters, all the better. The suspense offers a sense of justice for the reader, and the romance, hope.
What are the sexiest scenes to write?
I love the scenes that are loaded with sexual tension. The hero and heroine are very aware of each other but for whatever reason can’t do anything about their attraction. It’s that lingering question of “will they or won’t they?” that keeps me turning the pages.
What has been the proudest moment of your career?
Last year the Washington Romance Writers awarded me their Lifetime Achievement Award. I’ve been a member of the group for many years, and I was very touched and humbled by the acknowledgment.
What’s one book you think everyone should read?
Great by Choice by Jim Collins.
What’s the best writing advice you’ve received?
Write every day. Even if I only have a few minutes, I write every day. This keeps the story fresh in my head and my writing skills sharp.
What’s next?
No Escape, which will be released in November 2013. This is the second in my Texas series and tells the tale of Dr. Jolene Granger and Texas Ranger Brody Winchester.
