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Since there are so many subgenres of romance novels, selecting the best romance novel is an impossible task. However, it is possible to select a few novels to provide a sampling of the variety of romances available. So, barring some of the characters' names, these books are well worth the time and money.

Dark Historical: "Storm Winds" by Iris Johansen is set during the French Revolution and shows a dark side to history. The two main characters are strong, compelling characters that show how two different personalities ultimately are stronger together than apart. As a painter, Juliet sees and understands humanity and portrays its flaws and beauty. Jean Luc understands commerce and politics and doesn't hesitate to use his understanding to manipulate people and situations to protect his family and friends. Although a dark story, this novel combines history and a compelling story in such a way that a reader will remember it for years to come.

Regency: "Rendezvous" by Amanda quick is a sweet Regency romance that is set in post-Napoleonic war England. Harry is a former spy master who is rumored to be looking for a "paragon" for his second wife. Knowing his requirements for his new bride, Augusta is surprised when he begins courting her as she is an independent original who is frequently finds herself involved in capers. But when Harry's nemesis from the war resurfaces, Harry and Augusta's marriage is tested. If you like this novel, you may also like Celeste Bradley's novels.

Dark Contemporary: "Cry No More" by Linda Howard is a story about a mother whose newborn child is kidnapped. During the years following the crime, Milla forms a network to help find lost and stolen children, hoping to one day find her son. When she finally has clues that may undercover agent. This novel is a very difficult story and many people have found the subject matter too difficult to read, but ultimately it is worth the effort. Keep a box of tissues on hand.

Paranormal: "Night Play" by Sherrilyn Kenyon is one of the best of the Kenyon's Dark Hunter series. Bride is a nice normal woman (including dress size!) who has just been dumped by her boyfriend. When she meets Vane, a lone wolfliterallyshe is surprised at his interest in her. Unfortunately, Bride doesn't know that Vane is a were (as in wolf) who is on the outs with his clan. This is a fun, romantic book that is a great introduction to Kenyon's series. If you like this book, you may also like J.R. Ward's books.

Political suspense: "Tell Me No Lies" by Elizabeth Lowell was written in the mid 1980's but isn't one of the typical clich romances of the time. Art expert Lindsay spent her formative years in China with her missionary parents. Caitlin (his last name) served in Vietnam, first on airplanes but later as an undercover agent. When a statue from Qin's tomb is stolen from China and supposedly on the black market in the States, the US government recruits Lindsey to find the statue and verify its authenticity. Caitlin is recruited to guide Lindsey through the underworld she is unfamiliar with. If you enjoy this book, you would also enjoy Lowell's Donovan series.

Futuristic mystery: "Naked in Death" by J.D. Robb (aka, Nora Roberts) is the first novel in a mystery series set in the future. When a politician's daughter is found dead, homicide detective Eve Dallas is the primary officer on the case. During her investigation, she meets billionaire Roarke, who saw the victim that night. Roarke clears his name in the investigation but then helps Dallas solve the case.

Classics: "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen. "Rebecca" by Daphne Du Maurier. "These Old Shades" by Georgette Heyer.

Learn more about this author, Monica Wanat.
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