I like monsters that have a reason for being a monster (Beast in Beauty and the Beast- any version). They went through something tragic (even if it was just a bite or scratch or something more) and they have to live with their new lives. Some turn evil, some turn evil for a while and then change to the good side, some make the most of it and realize that they aren't really a monster, just have unusual qualities and/or appearance. Those are my favorite 'monsters'.
My neighborhood is pretty quiet where the adults are concerned. A few will nod hello when they see you, but for the most part, no one talks to each other. The kids however... they know every other kid in a four block radius and know the insides of the houses, all the dogs, etc. That's who you would have to watch out for (for a thriller, not a romance or fantasy).
Congrats on the new book(s) and on the move. I look forward to reading all three.
My rewards are books and coffee. For the dogs, it's a trip to the dog park instead of just playing with them around the house. We don't have any cats right now, just dogs.