I love Top Ten lists. About anything. Movies, novels, games, foods, cars—you name it and I will read it.
A recent list I found had the title “Top Ten Romance Novels of All Time,” by birdsherry. While I can’t agree these are the best of all time, I do like the selections and heartily agree with two or three.
The problem with some lists is that the title is too broad. Best romance novels of all time? Classic or Contemporary? Regency or Western? Sweet or Erotic? Time-Travel or Vampire? Most Popular or Best Plot? The possibilities are endless.
Here is "birdsherry’s" list:
1. Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
2. Knight in Shining Glory by Jude Devereaux
3. It Had To Be You by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
4. The Bride by Julie Garwood
5. Dream Man-Linda Howard
6. Flowers from the Storm by Laura Kinsale
7. Morning Glory by LaVyrle Spencer
8. McKenzie’s Mountain by Linda Howard
9. Nobody’s Baby But Mine by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
10. Lord of Scoundrels by Loretta Chase.
LaVyrle Spencer’s novel have stood the test of time. She wrote, I believe, 26 novels and retired. They were old when I discovered them, and now, each is being re-released with new covers. I have all her novels collected and safe in a cabinet. Most have the old covers, and now, I’m in the process of collecting every one of them with the new covers. I’m a real fan.
Susan Elizabeth Phillips’ novels are wonderful. There, too, I have read every one. She is a unique author, with an unusual voice and way of writing that keeps the reader moving. Her sense of humor and timing is impeccable.
I may be the last romance reader on the face of the earth who has not read Diana Gabaldon. I’ve noticed anytime someone mentions her as one of the greats, her novel Outlander is usually named. A vow to Ms. Gabaldon—I will read Outlander.
Celia Yeary
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Good list only I would have switched #1 and #3. I liked reading your blog and will come again. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteAll the very best,
Simone
Where is Sweet Savage Love? By Rosemary Rogers...
ReplyDeleteIt was the first Romance Novel I read...and I was hooked after that...
Most of these I haven't heard of, but I have read Outlander and can't see it worthy of even being on the list. I was given two more of the series and haven't bothered to read them yet. While I like the hero, I was otherwise not real impressed. *shrug*
ReplyDeleteBut, it really is subjective and no two people would ever agree on one list, I don't imagine.
A top romance list without Kathleen Woodiwiss is surprising.
Celia, I'm pathetic. Forgive. I recognize a few authors like Garwood and Deveauraux and that's about it. I don't recogize any of the books. I'll have to put LaVyle's on my reading list so I can expand my horizons.
ReplyDeleteMy top 10 list would be very different from yours. You've inspired me to write my own top ten list though, and to write down why they're my top ten. Thanks for sharing your favorites! I love the inspiration.
Smiles,
Steph