I'm not sure I know just why I do. I started out by writing in several genres, but the past few years have seen my writing funneled almost exclusively to crime fiction. I can put my finger on a few things. The conflict of good v. evil in the world intrigues me.

I like to root for the good guy or the underdog. I like to believe at least in the possibility of redemption. I like how the bad guy gets his comeuppance or just desserts. I like how ordinary people do extraordinary feats when the chips are down.

But most of all, I'm relieved, even grateful, the crime I write about only exists in the fictional world of my creation. If that makes me a big liar, I can live with that sin okay enough.

By Ed Lynskey
Twitter: @edlynskey
Author of Ask the Dice , a hit man crime novel set in Washington, D.C.