Queen of romance novels Jackie Collins dies of cancer

Best-selling author of romance novels, British novelist Jackie Collins, 77, has died of breast cancer in California, her family said. - Reuterpic

LOS ANGELES (AFP) - Best-selling romance novelist Jackie Collins, whose first book was so steamy it was banned in some countries, died of breast cancer in California Saturday, her family said. She was 77.

"She lived a wonderfully full life and was adored by her family, friends and the millions of readers who she has been entertaining for over 4 decades," her family said in a statement, adding that she had battled breast cancer for more than six years.