How do you feel about prologues?

Now, as most of you know. I am OBSESSED with prologues. I love reading them, writing them and just staring at them in general.

I think they can be just the right thing to drag me into a book. I love the little shot of mystery they can give a plot or the instant connection to a character.

BUT they have to be done right! A pointless prologue breaks my heart.

Make. Every. Word. Count.

I love prologues, but some people just don't know how to write them. If you're one of those people, DON'T. It's better to have no prologue than a terrible or forced one. A bad prologue can ruin the entire book...

I find them necessary for most good tales.
They give the reader a little preview about the tale will be about which is a very good way to hook a reader.

I think there are a few stories that absolutely need them. Other times, I just launch into my tale.