Jackie Collins built a raunchy romance empire starting with her first published novel in 1968. Since her debut, all 32 of her books have become instant New York Times bestsellers.
At once labeled the “Queen of Trash” and a feminist icon, Collins is the subject of a new CNN documentary, Lady Boss (named for one of her hit romances), which explores Collins’ success writing guilty pleasures that challenged the status quo with their “un-ladylike” themes, while her “Girls can do anything” motto inspired generations of readers.
Best Jackie Collins Books
Below are 10 Jackie Collins books you won’t be able to put down!
1. Chances (1981)
Chances introduces readers to the Santangelo family, and is the first in the Santangelo series. The novel ranges in time from 1921–1977 and follows Gino Santangelo, the head of a New York crime family, and his beautiful, fiercely independent daughter, Lucky, who eventually takes over the business.
2. Lucky (1985)
As the title suggests, this second book in the Santangelo series turns its focus to Lucky, who is still yearning for her father’s approval while she carries on the family business and feeds her hunger for power, over both the Santangelo empire and the men of her choice.
3. Lady Boss (1990)
In Lady Boss, Lucky Santangelo is back, this time to take over a Hollywood studio. In the process, she uncovers a world of sex, scandal, and betrayal. When Lucky finally becomes “lady boss” of Panther Studios, she sets off a series of shock waves that not only threaten her marriage, but also unleash the wrath of crime boss Carlos Bonnatti, her family’s rival, which put everyone close to her in danger.
4. The World Is Full Of Married Men (1968)
The World Is Full of Married Men was Collins’ first published novel, and introduces readers to her frank, racy style. Without a literary agent, Collins was encouraged by her husband to send her manuscript to publishers. It was picked up and became a bestseller within one week of publication. Set in London in the “swinging sixties,” this book focuses on the cut-throat media business, infidelity, and the lengths some will go to in order to make it big.
5. The Power Trip (2012)
In another sexy Collins thriller, a group of rich, powerful, and beautiful people are aboard a yacht in the Sea of Cortez to celebrate the birthday of one of the world’s most beautiful women. But lust, personal vendettas, and even pirates promise to make this one voyage the elite guests won’t soon forget.
6. Hollywood Wives (1983)
Collins’ most successful novel, Hollywood Wives has sold more than 15 million copies. Before there were the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, this book was hailed as the “ultimate insider’s novel,” inspired by the fast and fabulous lives of Hollywood’s royalty.
7. The Stud (1969)
Collins’ second book, The Stud, is set in the decadent, hedonistic world of 1969 London. It follows the exploits of an ambitious nightclub manager and his married female employer, including their betrayals.
8. L.A. Connections (1998)
In this book, the first of the Madison Castelli series, four stories converge into one to offer readers an insider look at the real story behind Hollywood’s glamour and fame, as well as the corrupt, cocaine-strewn halls of the rich, famous, and powerful.
9. Lethal Seduction (2000)
Madison Castelli is back, and this time she’s torn between two lovers—but that’s nothing compared to what happens when she learns someone close to her is keeping deadly secrets in this suspenseful thriller that takes place between New York and Las Vegas.
10. Lovers and Players (2005)
The lives of several powerful and magnetic New Yorkers intertwine in a crazy week that brings family secrets to the surface, as well as two murders.
How Much Is Jackie Collins Worth?
Jackie Collins was said to have a net worth of $180 million at the time she died in 2015. That number will likely continue to increase, as her books continue to sell even after her death. For more success stories, check out our list of the world’s richest authors.
What Kind of Books Did Jackie Collins Write?
Jackie Collins was known for writing “guilty pleasure” novels aimed primarily at a female audience. Her books combined elements of thrillers and raunchy romances, and often took readers behind the scenes of the rich and powerful in places like Beverly Hills, New York, London, and Las Vegas.
Though not regarded as “serious” fiction in any way by literary critics, Collins didn’t seem to mind her title of “Queen of Trash,” and neither did generations of readers. Collectively, her books have sold more than 500 million copies and been translated into 40 languages.
Do you have a favorite Jackie Collins novel? Share it with us in the comments below!
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As a blog writer for TCK Publishing, Kaelyn loves crafting fun and helpful content for writers, readers, and creative minds alike. She has a degree in International Affairs with a minor in Italian Studies, but her true passion has always been writing. Working remotely allows her to do even more of the things she loves, like traveling, cooking, and spending time with her family.
