important story element

[Patricia]

I realized that all my stories begin with a setting I love, e.g The Riviera (The Connecticut Cowboy and the Riviera Runaway) mountains(Pride and Pretense; Sun Dance at Turtle Rock) islands(Jordan's Island, being revised) and then I imagine characters interacting against the backdrop. Of course, storyline, dialogue and likeable characters are equally important to turn an idea into a book. I wonder what element of a book attracts readers initially. Also looking for reviews.

[Cheryl]

I think characters and the storyline are what attract me first. I LOVE the settings in your books though. Jordan's Island sounds intriguing. what is that one about?