Romance novels are one of the most popular genre in modern literature and is read in over 90 different languages all across the world. Romance category consists of 9 subgenres such as fantasy, science fiction, paranormal, historical, contemporary, time-travel, inspirational, erotic, and multicultural romance. Even though the genre has millions of followers worldwide, it still receives high criticism and ridicule (even after being this popular and having a large fanbase) by the mass. But we are not here to discuss what others have opined about this genre. What we are more concerned about is the fact that there are millions of books sold each year and people look forward to reading them. So if you wish to get your hands on some of the best selling romance novels, then you'll find a wonderful list below. Must-read Novels These novels are not about topless men on the covers, unimaginable storyline, and cheesy dialogs. Although there's nothing wrong about such novels as there may be thousands of people who read them, some readers don't believe it to be real "romance". I've had my share of classic novels which I must have read again and again, and perhaps you have too. The books mentioned below have emerged as some of the most famous novels written till date. Gaston Leroux ~ The Phantom of the Opera It was originally named as Le Fantôme de l'Opéra, a publication in serial form from 1909 to 1910 by the French writer Gaston Leroux. Now it is better known as one of the hit Broadway show, The Phantom of the Opera musical. Andrew Lloyd Webber who directed it says, "The musical focuses on a beautiful singer, Christine Daaé, who becomes the obsession of a mysterious, disfigured musical genius known as "The Phantom of the Opera," who terrorizes the Paris Opera." Nicholas Sparks ~ The Notebook This romantic novel was published in 1996 and narrates the tale of two teens falling in love over summer holidays. Perhaps you remember watching "The Notebook" movie starring Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams. If you liked watching the movie, you'll love reading the book as well. Sherrilyn Kenyon ~ Dark Hunter (series) Best known for the Dark Hunter series, Sherrilyn Kenyon has written and printed 8 novels under the series, with Night Embrace published in 2003. "The Dark Hunters are immortal warriors pledged to the Greek goddess Artemis and dedicated to defending mankind against Daimons (vampires) and other assorted enemies: including a couple of rogue gods and goddesses." Stephenie Meyer ~ Twilight (series) It's a four novel series based on vampire fantasy. The book follows the life of Isabella Swan, a teenager who falls in love with Edward Cullen, a 104 year old vampire. The first novel of the series Twilight was published in 2005. Other novels in the series are New Moon, Eclipse, and Breaking Down. Susan Elizabeth Phillips ~ It Had to Be You "It Had to Be You" is a comedy romance that depicts the life of Phoebe Somerville, who's a blonde-glam girl overlooked by many. The novel was published in 1994 and has been my favorite ever since I read it. Novels You Shouldn't Miss Out On I have kept my teen habits alive till date and keep looking for novels that are worth reading. Out of the thousands of novels published each year, here's my small contribution.

• Diana Gabaldon ~ Outlander
• Connie Brockway ~ As You Desire
• Colleen McCullough ~ The Thorn Birds
• Knight in Shining Armor ~ Jude Deveraux
• Gabriel Garcia Marquez ~ Love in the Times of Cholera
• Julie Garwood ~ The Bride
• Tom and Sharon Curtis ~ The Windflower
• Murasaki Shikibu ~ The Tale of Genji
• Jane Austen ~ Pride and Prejudice
• Julie Garwood ~ The Secret
• Stephanie Laurens ~ The Devil's Bride
• Judith McNaught ~ Kingdom of Dreams
• Judith McNaught ~ Once and Always
• Susan Elizabeth Phillips ~ Kiss an Angel
• LaVyrle Spencer ~ Morning Glory
• Judith McNaught ~ Whitney, My Love
• J. D. Robb ~ Naked in Death
• Linda Howard ~ Dream Man
• Loretta Chase ~ Lord of Scoundrels
• Margaret Mitchell ~ Gone in the Wind
• Jane Eyre ~ Charlotte Bronte

The list is endless because there are many authors who pour their hearts and souls into their work. And with new authors publishing their noteworthy work each year, it won't be surprising to see some more amazing novels headed our way. Feel free to comment about your favorite novels and let us know which ones you have read and the ones you would like to read in the future.