Why Readers fall for Dangerous Protectors in Paranormal Romance

I remember walking into the hair salon and listening to a conversation about the most popular book sweeping the nation at the time. I hadn't read it (yet) and did a fair amount of sneering. Now that I'm an author, I think about what made this book series so juicy. One of the most irresistible character types in paranormal romance is the dangerous protector - capable of violence, but who chooses restraint when it comes to the one person who matters most.  Look at good old Edward from Twilight. Sure, he was a "vegetarian" until he met Bella, then he wanted that steak dinner. But she was just so pretty and nice... 

There's a reason readers return again and again to dangerous protectors in paranormal romance. A character walks the line between threat and safety- capable, even desperate for love, but controlled by the threat of violence.

In stories where the world between the pages is filled with supernatural danger, the idea of someone powerful choosing to protect rather than destroy is irresistible. Whether the protector is a werewolf like Brock in my Down Came the Rayne series, or our veggie vampire, this trope taps into a deep emotional pull that keeps readers coming back for more.   

When I finally picked up my copy of the hair salon book, I realized why I enjoyed it so much. Readers aren't just drawn to the musclebound man on the cover with a sword (although they are fun to look at); we love that he chooses restraint. I want a dangerous protector that offers emotional security, don't you? Imagine loyalty that isn't casual, it's earned, hard-won, and absolute. Moral dilemmas, secrets, scars, and past violence only sweeten the pot!

When I created Brock, I wanted a mysterious man who had seen some serious grief. He struggles with how dangerous he is and his obsession with Victoria. He offers safety without softness and is often sarcastic and frustrating. If you are drawn to a paranormal mystery romance with a dangerous but loyal protector, The Rayne series may be a perfect place to start.