Top 20 Richest Authors In The World

Writers Becoming Millionaires!

It is a strange notion, a writer making millions as it is said to be the most dangerous line of work when it comes to writing since most writers crash and burn (making very little money). Especially authors who write novels because of the harsh competition which spreads all around the world, only worsened by the e-books (on the internet) which has allowed people to self publish (easily).

That being said readers benefit more as the more novel writers, the more choice of books on offer, especially since e-books can quite often be free or a very low price (downside- not always well written, edited or put together). The point about e-books is worth mentioning for this list as it has allowed big authors to branch out to a wider audience, due to the vast numbers of people now using the internet to go about their daily activities.

Writing books (novels or otherwise) is proven lucrative as shown in the list you are about to read as they have managed to obtain tens of millions, some far more by simply putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) and writing. However it isn't all that simple as there are elements to creating a great book which people are going to want to part money for. But if like the following authors, plenty of money can be made with the right story, aimed towards the right audience.

#1- J.K. Rowling - Net Worth - $1 Billion

Age: 49

Date of birth: (Born 31 July, 1965)

Known for writing: Fantasy

2013 earnings: $13 million (source- Forbes Magazine)

J.K. Rowling is a British author and has made this enormous fortune from her 'Harry Potter' books and the films which were based on the fantasy books. J.K. Rowling's made her money from her share in book sales, films ticket sales, DVD/Blu-Ray sales and pay-per view TV sales.

Book list: Harry Potter series: Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (1997), Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (1998), Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (1999), Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2000), Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2003), Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2005), Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (2007). Other: The Casual Vacancy (2012), The Cuckoo's Calling (2013), The Silkworm (2014).

#2- Jim Davis - Net Worth - $800 Million

Age: 69

Date of birth: (Born July 28, 1945)

Known for writing: Comic strips

2013 earnings: Unknown

Jim Davis is an American cartoonist and author who earned his fortune through his creation of the highly successful comic strip 'Garfield'. Jim has made his fortune from his share in revenue from 'Garfield' television shows, video games, films and DVD/Blu-Ray and book sales.

Book list: Garfield at Large: His First Book (1980), Pet Force (spin-off from 'Garfield', including book #1: The Outrageous origin, book #2: Pie-Rat's Revenge, book #3: K-Niner: Dog of Doom, book #4: Menace of the Mutanator, book #5: Attack of the Lethal Lizards).

#3- Candy Spelling - Net Worth - $600 Million

Age: 69

Date of birth: (Born September 20, 1945)

Known for writing:

2013 earnings: Unknown

Candy Spelling is an American author, television personality and philanthropist. Candy Spelling has done extremely well as an author having written the extremely successful 'Stories From Candyland' books.

Book list: Stories From Candyland (2009) and Candy at Last (2014).

#4- Stephen King - Net Worth - $400 Million

Age: 67

Date of birth: (Born September 21, 1947)

Known for writing: Modern suspense, horror, science-fiction and fantasy

2013 earnings: $20 million (source- Forbes Magazine)

Stephen King is an American author of horror, science fiction, suspense and fantasy books. Stephen has made his fortune from a variety of successful books which have amassed a great fortune from his share in revenue from book sales. As a fair few of Stephen's books have been adapted into feature films, he has also made more money from his share in revenue from cinema ticket sales, DVD and Blu-Ray sales and pay-per view TV sales.

Book list: Carrie (1974), 'Salem's Lot (1975), The Shining (1977), Rage (1977), Night Shift (1978), The Stand (1978), The Long Walk (1979), The Dead Zone (1979), Firestarter (1980), Roadwork (1981), Danse Macabre (1981), Cujo (1981), The Running Man (1982), The Dark Tower: The Gunslinger (1982), Creepshow (1982), Different Seasons (1982), Christine (1983), Pet Sematary (1983), Cycle of the Werewolf (1983), The Talisman (1984), Thinner (1984), Skeleton Crew (1985), The Bachman Books (1985), It (1986), The Eyes of the Dragon (1987), The Dark Tower II: The Drawing of the Three (1987), Misery (1987), The Tommyknockers (1987), Nightmares in the Sky (1988), The Dark Half (1989), Four Past Midnight (1990), The Dark Tower III: The Waste Lands (1991), Needful Things (1991), Gerald's Game (1992), Dolores Claiborne (1992), Nightmares and Dreamscapes (1993), Insomnia (1994), Rose Madder (1995), The Green Mile (1996), Desperation (1996), The Regulators (1996), Six Stories (1997), The Dark Tower IV: Wizard and Glass (1997), Bag of Bones (1998), The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon (1999), The New Lieutenant's Rap (1999), Hearts in Atlantis (1999), Blood and Smoke (1999), Riding the Bullet (2000), On Writing (2000), Secret Windows (2000), The Plant (2000), Dreamcatcher (2001), Black House (2001), Everything's Eventual (2002), From a Buick 8 (2002), The Dark Tower V: Wolves of the Calla (2003), The Dark Tower VI: Song of Susannah (2004), The Dark Tower VII: The Dark Tower (2004), Faithful (2004), The Colorado Kid (2005), Cell (2006), Lisey's Story (2006), Blaze (2007), Duma Key (2008), Just After Sunset (2008), Ur (2009), Throttle (2009), Under the Dome (2009), American Vampire (2010), Blockade Billy (2010), Full Dark, No Stars (2010), Mile 81 (2011), 11/22/63 (2011), The Dark Tower: The Wind Through the Keyhole (2012), A Face in the Crowd (2012), In the Tall Grass (2012), Guns (2013), Joyland (2013), Doctor Sleep (2013), Mr. Mercedes (2014), Revival (2014), Finders Keepers (2015).

#5- Danielle Steel - Net Worth - $375 Million

Age: 67

Date of birth: (Born August 14, 1947)

Known for writing:

2013 earnings: $26 million (source- Forbes Magazine)

Danielle Steel is an American author who is currently the best selling author alive with more than 800 million copies sold. All of her published books have been best sellers known known for staying on ''The New York Times'' best sellers list for weeks at a time. Danielle has made her entire fortune from writing novels, producing a few each year which is proving lucrative for the author.

Book list: Going Home (1973), Golden Moments (1977), Now and Forever (1978), The Promise (1978), Season of Passion (1979), Summer's End (1979), The Ring (1980), Palomino (1981), To Love Again (1981), Remembrance (1981), Loving (1981), Loving (1981), Once in a Lifetime (1982), Crossings (1982), A Perfect Stranger (1983), Thurston House (1983), Changes (1983), Full Circle (1984), Family Album (1985), Secrets (1985), Wanderlust (1986), Fine Things (1987), Kaleidoscope (1987), Zoya (1988), Star (1989), Daddy (1989), Message From Nam (1990), Heartbeat (1991), No Greater Love (1991), Jewels (1992), Mixed Blessings (1992), Vanished (1993), Accident (1994), The Gift (1994), Wings (1994), Lightning (1995), Five Days in Paris (1995), Malice (1996), Silent Honor (1996), The Ranch (1997), Special Delivery (1997), The Ghost (1997), The Long Road Home (1998), The Klone and I (1998), His Bright Light (1998), Mirror Image (1998), Bittersweet (1999), Granny Dan (1999), Irresistible Forces (1999), The Wedding (2000), The House On Hope Street (2000), Journey (2000), Lone Eagle (2001), Leap of Faith (2001), The Kiss (2001), The Cottage (2002), Sunset in St. Tropez (2002), Answered Prayers (2002), Dating Game (2003), Johnny Angel (2003), Safe Harbour (2003), Ransom (2004), Second Chance (2004), Echoes (2004), Impossible (2005), Miracle (2005), Toxic Bachelors (2005), The House (2006), Coming Out (2006), H.R.H (2006), Sisters (2007), Bungalow 2 (2007), Amazing Grace (2007), Honor Thyself (2008), Rogue (2008), A Good Woman (2008), One Day at a Time (2009), Matters of the Heart (2009), Southern Lights (2009), Big Girl (2010), Family Ties (2010), Legacy (2010), 44 Charles Street (2011), Happy Birthday (2011), Hotel Vendome (2011), Betrayal (2012), Friends Forever (2012), The Sins of the Mother (2012), A Gift of Hope (2012), Until the End of Time (2013), First Sight (2013), Winners (2013), Power Play (2014), A Perfect Life (2014).

#6- James Patterson - Net Worth - $310 Million

Age: 67

Date of birth: (Born March 22, 1947)

Known for writing: Thrillers

2013 earnings: $91 million (source- Forbes Magazine)

James Patterson is an American author, known for writing the Alex Cross series. James has made his fortune from writing books and in 2014 alone he has produced 12 books which is mightily impressive. James Patterson holds ''The New York Time'' record for the most best selling hardcover titles by a single author which is a total of 76.

Book list: The Thomas Berryman Number (1976), Season of the Machete (1977), The Jericho Commandment (1979), Virgin (1980), Black Market (1986), The Midnight Club (1989), The Day America Told the Truth (1991), Along Came a Spider (1993), The Second American Revolution (1994), Kiss the Girls (1995), Hide and Seek (1996), Miracle on the 17thGreen (1996), Jack and Jill (1996), See How They Run (1997), Cat and Mouse (1997), When the Wind Blows (1998), Pop Goes the Weasel (1999), Black Friday (2000), Cradle and All (2000), Roses are Red (2000), 1stto Die (2001), Suzanne's Diary for Nicholas (2001), Violets are Blue (2001), 2nd Chance (2002), The Beach House (2002), Four Blind Mice (2002), The Jester (2003), The Lake House (2003), The Big Bad Wolf (2003), 3rd Degree (2004), Sam's Letters to Jennifer (2004), Santa Kid (2004), London Bridges (2004), Honeymoon (2005), Maximum Ride: The Angel Experiment (2005), 4th of July (2005), Lifeguard (2005), Mary, Mary (2005), The 5th Horseman (2006), Beach Road (2006), Maximum Ride:School's Out Forever (2006), Judge and Jury (2006), Cross (2006), Step on a Crack (2007), The 6th Target (2007), Maximum Ride: Saving the World and Other Extreme Sports (2007), The Quickie (2007), You've Been Warned (2007), Double Cross (2007), 7th Heaven (2008), Maximum Ride: The Final Warning (2008), Sundays at Tiffany's (2008), Sail (2008), The Dangerous Days of Daniel X (2008), Against Medical Advice (2008), Cross Country (2008), Run for Your Life (2009), Max: A Maximum Ride Novel (2009), The 8th Confession (2009), Swimsuit (2009), Daniel X: Watch the Skies (2009), Alex Cross's Triad (2009), The Murder of King Tut (2009), I, Alex Cross (2009), Witch and Wizard (2009), Worst Case (2010), Fang: A Maximum Ride Novel (2010), Med Head (2010), The 9th Judgement (2010), Private (2010), Daniel X: Demons and Druids (2010), The Postcard Killers (2010), Don't Blink (2010), Cross Fire (2010), Witch and Wizard: The Gift (2010), Tick Tock (2011), Angel: A Maximum Ride Novel (2011), Bloody Valentine (2011), Toys (2011), 10th Anniversary (2011), Private London (2011), Now You See Her (2011), Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life (2011), Boys Will Be Boys (2011), Daniel X: Game Over (2011), Kill Me If You Can (2011), Kill Alex Cross (2011), The Christmas Wedding (2011), Witch and Wizard: The Fire (2011), Private: #1 Suspect (2012), Private Games (2012), Guilty Wives (2012), 11th Hour (2012), Middle School: Get Me Out of Here (2012), I, Michael Bennett (2012), Nevermore: The Final Maximum Ride Adventure (2012), Zoo (2012), Confessions of a Murder Suspect (2012), NYPD Red (2012), Daniel X: Armageddon (2012), Merry Christmas, Alex Cross (2012), I Funny (2012), Private Berlin (2013), Witch and Wizard: The Kiss (2013), Alex Cross, Run (2013), Middle School: My Brother is a Big, Fat Liar (2013), 12th of Never (2013), Second Honeymoon (2013), Middle School: How I Survived Bullies, Broccoli, and Snake Hill (2013), Mistress (2013), Treasure Hunters (2013), Gone (2013), Confessions: The Private School Murders (2013), Cross My Heart (2013), I Even Funnier (2013), First Love (2014), Private L.A. (2014), Middle School: How I Got Lost in London (2014), NYPD Red 2 (2014), Middle School: Ultimate Showdown (2014), Unlucky 13 (2014), Invisible (2014), Middle School: Safe Rafe (2014), Homeroom Diaries (2014), Private Down Under (2014), Treasure Hunters: Danger Down The Nile (2014), Burn (2014), Confessions: The Paris Mysteries (2014), Hope to Die (2014), House of Robots (2014), Witch and Wizard: The Lost (2014), Private Vegas (2015), I, Totally Funniest (2015).

#7- Tom Clancy - Net Worth - $300 Million

Age: Deceased

Date of birth: (Born April 12, 1947 - October 1, 2013)

Known for writing: Detailed espionage and military science storyline's

2013 earnings: Unknown

Tom Clancy (April 12th, 1947 - October 1, 2013) was an American author and historian who made his fortune from writing military based and espionage storyline's. Various books written by Tom Clancy have been adapted into movies and video games which has allowed Tom Clancy to share in revenue shares from these adaptations.

Book list: The Hunt for Red October (1984), Red Storm Rising (1986), Patriot Games (1987), The Cardinal of the Kremlin (1988), Clear and present Danger (1989), The Sum of All Fears (1991), Without Remorse (1993), Debt of Honor (1994), Executive Orders (1996), SSN: Strategies for Submarine Warfare (1996), Rainbox Six (1998), The Bear and the Dragon (2000), Red Rabbit (2002), The Teeth of the Tiger (2003), Dead or Alive (2010), Against All Enemies (2011), Locked On (2011), Search and Destroy (2012), Threat Vector (2012), Command Authority (2013).

#8- Olivia Harrison - Net Worth - $275 Million

Age: 66

Date of birth: (Born May 18, 1948)

Known for writing: Non-fiction

2013 earnings: Unknown

Olivia Harrison is a British-Mexican author and film producer and has made her fortune through these carriers. Although most of her fortune would have been made from her work done as a film producer as Olivia has only ever written a single book.

Book list: George Harrison: Living in the Material World (2011)

#9- John Grisham - Net Worth - $200 Million

Age: 59

Date of birth: (Born February 8, 1955)

Known for writing: Legal thrillers

2012 earnings: $26 million (source- Forbes Magazine)

John Grisham has made his fortune as an American author, lawyer and politician. John is best known for writing political thrillers and has some great titles within his bibliography (as shown below).

Book list: A Time to Kill (1989), The Firm (1991), The Pelican Brief (1992), The Client (1993), The Chamber (1994), The Rainmaker (1995), The Runaway Jury (1996), The Partner (1997), The Street Lawyer (1998), The Testament (1999), The Brethren (2000), A Painted House (2001), Skipping Christmas (2001), The Summons (2002), The King of Torts (2003), Bleachers (2003), The Last Juror (2004), The Broker (2005), Playing for Pizza (2007), The Appeal (2008), The Associate (2009), The Confession (2010), The Litigators (2011), Calico Joe (2012), The Racketeer (2012), Sycamore Row (2013), Gray Mountain (2014).

#10- Jackie Collins - Net Worth - $180 Million

Age: 77

Date of birth: (Born October 4, 1937)

Known for writing: Romance

2013 earnings: Unknown

Jackie Collins has made her fortune as an English author and her books have sold more than 500 million copies. All of her published books have appeared in ''The New York Times'' best sellers list. She is well known for writing the Lucky Santangelo novels, and the Madison Castelli series.

Book list: Hollywood series: Hollywood Wives (1983), Hollywood Husbands (1986), Hollywood Kids (1994), Hollywood Wives: The New Generation (2001), Hollywood Divorces (2003). The Lucky Santangelo Novels: Chances (1981), Lucky (1985), Lady Boss (1990), Vendetta: Lucky's Revenge (1996), Dangerous Kiss (1999), Drop Dead Beautiful (2007), Poor Little Bi**h Girl (2010), Goddess of Vengeance (2011), Confessions of a Wild Child (2013). Madison Castelli Series: L.A. Connections (serialised novel): Power (1998), Obsession (1998), Murder (1998), Revenge (1998), Lethal Seduction (2000), Deadly Embrace (2002). Others: The World is Full of Married Men (1968), The Stud (1969), Sinners (1971), The Love Killers (1974), The World is Full of Divorced Women (1975), Lovers and Gamblers (1977), The Bi**h (1979), Rock Star (1988), American Star (1993), Thrill! (1998), Lovers and Players (2006), Married Lovers (2008), The Power Trip (2012), The Lucky Santangelo Cookbook (2014).

#11- Michael Crichton - Net Worth - $175 Million

Age: Deceased

Date of birth: (Born October 23, 1942 - November 4, 2008)

Known for writing: Science-fiction, medical fiction, and thrillers

2013 earnings: Unknown

Michael Crichton (October 23, 1942 - November 4, 2008) was an American author, producer, director, physician and screenwriter who made a fortune in the process. His books have sold more than 200 million copies ''Jurassic Park'', ''The Lost World'' and ''Rising Sun'' which were adapted into box office success films.

Book list: Novels: Odds On (1966), Scratch One (1967), Easy Go (1968), A Case of Need (1968), Zero Cool (1969), The Andromeda Strain (1969), The Venom Business (1969), Drug of Choice (1970), Dealing (1970), Grave Descend (1970), Binary (1972), The Terminal Man (1972), The Great Train Robbery (1975), Eaters of the Dead (1976), Congo (1980), Sphere (1987), Jurassic Park (1990), Rising Sun (1992), Disclosure (1994), The Lost World (1995), Airframe (1996), Timeline (1999), Prey (2002), State of Fear (2004), Next (2006), Pirate Latitudes (2009), Micro (2011). Non-Fiction: Five Patients (1970), Jasper Johns (1977), Electronic Life (1983), Travels (1988).

#12- Nora Roberts - Net Worth - $150 Million

Age: 64

Date of birth: (Born October 10, 1950)

Known for writing: Romance

2013 earnings: $23 million (source- Forbes Magazine)

Nora Roberts made her fortune as an American author and has also written under the names, J.D. Robb, Jill March and Sarah Hardesty. Nora has written more than 210 romance novels with a combined time of 176 weeks in the number-one spot on the ''New York Times'' best sellers list.

Book list: 1980s: 1981: Irish Thoroughbred. 1982: Blithe Images, Heart's Victory, Island of Flowers, Melodies of Love, Search For Love, Song of the West. 1983: From This Day, Her Mother's Keeper, Once More with Feeling, Reflections, Reflections and Dreams or the Davidov Series (1 of 2), Dance of Dreams, Reflections and Dreams or the Davidov Series (2 of 2), The Magic Moment, Tonight and Always, Untamed. 1984: Endings and Beginnings, First Impressions, The Law is a Lady, Less of a Stranger, A Matter of Choice, Opposites Attract, Promise Me Tomorrow, Rules of the Game, Storm Warning, Sullivan's Woman. 1985: Boundary Lines, Dual Image, Night Moves, Partners, Playing the Odds, The MacGregors (1 of 9) Tempting Fate, The MacGregors (2 of 9), All the Possibilities, The MacGregors (3 of 9), One Man's Art, The MacGregors (4 of 9), The Right Path, Summer Desserts, Great Chefs (1 of 2). 1986: Affaire Royale, Cordina's Royal Family (1 of 4), The Art of Deception, Home for Christmas, Lessons Learned, Great Chefs (2 of 2), Second Nature, Celebrity Magazine (1 of 2), Risky Business, One Summer, Celebrity Magazine (2 of 2), Treasures Lost, Treasures Found, A Will and a Way. 1987: Command Performance, Cordina's Royal Family (2 of 4), For Now, Forever, The MacGregors (5 of 9), Hot Ice, Bantam, Mind Over Matter, The Playboy Prince, Cordina's Royal Family (3 of 4), Sacred Sins, Sacred Sins, Bantam (1 of 2), Temptation. 1988: Brazen Virtue, Sacred Sins, Bantam (2 of 2), Irish Rose, Irish Hearts (2 of 3), The Last Honest Woman, The O'Hurleys (2 of 4), Skin Deep, The O'Hurleys (3 of 4), Local Hero, Name of the Game, Rebellion. 1989: Loving Jack, Loving Jack (1 of 3), Best Laid Plans, Loving Jack (2 of 3), Gabriel's Angel, Impulse, Lawless, Loving Jack (3 of 3), Sweet Revenge, Bantam, Time Was, Time and Again or The Hornblower Bros. (1 of 2), The Welcoming. 1990s: 1990: In From the Cold, Public Secrets, Bantam, Taming Natasha, The Stanislaskis or Those Wild Ukrainians (1 of 6), Times Change, Time and Again or The Hornblower Bros. (2 of 2), Without a Trace, The O'Hurleys (4 of 4). 1991: Courting Catherine, The Calhoun Women (1 of 5), A Man for Amanda, The Calhoun Women (2 of 5), For the Love of Lilah, The Calhoun Women (3 of 5), Genuine Lies, Bantam, Luring a Lady, The Stanislaskis or Those Wild Ukrainians (2 of 6), Night Shift, Night Tales (1 of 5), Night Shadow, Night Tales (2 of 5), Suzanna's Surrender, The Calhoun Women (4 of 5). 1992: Captivated, The Donovan Legacy (1 of 4), Entranced, The Donovan Legacy (2 of 4), Carnal Innocence, Bantam, Charmed, The Donovan Legacy (3 of 4), Divine Evil, Bantam, Honest Illusions, Putnam, Unfinished Business, Cordina's Crown Jewel, Cordina's Royal Family (4 of 4). 1993: Falling for Rachel, The Stanislaskis or Those Wild Ukrainians (3 of 6), Nightshade, Night Tales (3 of 5), Private Scandals, Putnam. 1994: All I Want for Christmas, The Best Mistake, Born in Fire, The Concannon Sisters or Born in Trilogy (1 of 3), Convincing Alex, The Stanislaskis or Those Wild Ukrainians (4 of 6), Hidden Riches, Putnam, Night Smoke, Night Tales (4 of 5). 1995: Born in Ice, The Concannon Sisters or Born in Trilogy (2 of 3), Naked in Death, In Death 1, Berkley, Glory in Death, In Death 2, Berkley, The Return of Rafe MacKade, The MacKade Brothers (1 of 4), The Pride of Jared MacKade, The MacKade Brothers (2 of 4), True Betrayals. 1996: Born in Shame, The Concannon Sisters or Born in Trilogy (3 of 3), Daring to Dream, Dream or Templeton House (1 of 3), The Heart of Devin MacKade, The MacKade Brothers (3 of 4), The Fall of Shane MacKade, The MacKade Brothers (4 of 4), Megan's Mate, The Calhoun Women (5 of 5), Montana Sky, Putnam, Rapture in Death, In Death 4, Berkley. 1997: Hidden Star, Stars of Mithra (1 of 3), Captive Star, Stars of Mithra (2 of 3), Ceremony in Death, In Death 5, Berkley, Holding the Dream, Dream or Templeton House (2 of 3), Finding the Dream, Dream or Templeton House (3 of 3), The MacGregor Brides, The MacGregors (6 of 9), Sanctuary, Putnam, Vengeance in Death, In Death 6, Berkley, Waiting for Nick, The Stanislaskis or Those Wild Ukrainians (5 of 6). 1998: Holiday in Death, In Death 7, Berkley, Homeport, Putnam, The MacGregor Grooms, The MacGregors (8 of 9), Midnight in Death, In Death 7.5, The Reef, Putnam, Sea Swept, Chesapeake Bay or Quinn Bros. (1 of 4), Rising Tides, Chesapeake Bay or Quinn Bros.(2 of 4), Secret Star, Stars of Mithra (3 of 3), Spellbound, Once Upon Novellas (1 of 6), The Winning Hand, The MacGregors (7 of 9). 1999: Conspiracy in Death, In Death 8, Berkley, Enchanted, The Donovan Legacy (4 of 4), Ever After, Once Upon Novellas (2 of 6), Inner Harbor, Chesapeake Bay or Quinn Bros. (3 of 4), Jewels of the Sun, Irish Trilogy or Gallaghers of Ardmore (1 of 3), Loyalty in Death, In Death 9, Berkley, The Perfect Neighbour, The MacGregors (9 of 9), River's End, Putnam. 2000s: 2001: Carolina Moon, Putnam, Heart of the Sea, Irish Trilogy or Gallaghers of Ardmore (3 of 3), In Dreams, Once Upon Novellas (3 of 6), Irish Rebel, Irish Hearts (3 of 3), Judgement in Death, In Death 11, Berkley, Night Shield, Night Tales (5 of 5), Tears of the Moon, Irish Trilogy or Gallaghers of Ardmore (2 of 3), Witness in Death, In Death 10, Berkley. 2001: Betrayal in Death, In Death 12, Berkley, Considering Kate, The Stanislaskis or Those Wild Ukrainians (6 of 6), Dance Upon the Air, Three Sisters Island (1 of 3), Heaven and Earth, Three Sisters Island (2 of 3), Interlude in Death, In Death 12.5, Midnight Bayou, Seduction in Death, In Death 13, The Villa, Winter Rose, Once Upon Novellas (4 of 6). 2002: Chesapeake Blue, Chesapeake Bay or Quinn Bros. (4 of 4), Face the Fire, Three Sisters Island (3 of 3), Purity in Death, In Death 15, Reunion in Death, In Death 14, Three Fates, A World Apart, Once Upon Novellas (5 of 6). 2003: Birthright, Imitation in Death, In Death 17, Key of Knowledge, Key Trilogy (2 of 3), Key of Light, Key Trilogy (1 of 3), Portrait in Death, In Death 16, Remember When, In Death 17.5, The Witching Hour, Once Upon Novellas (6 of 6). 2004: Blue Dahlia, In the Garden (1 of 3), Divided in Death, in Death 18, Key of Valor, Key Trilogy (3 of 3), Northern Lights, Visions in Death, In Death 19, Wolf Moon. 2005: Black Rose, In the Garden (2 of 3), Blue Smoke, Origin in Death, In Death 21, Red Lily, In the Garden (3 of 3), Spellbound, Once Upon Novellas (1 of 6), Survivor in Death, In Death 20. 2006: Angels Fall, Haunted in Death, In Death 22.5, Born in Death, In Death 23, Dance of the Gods, The Circle Trilogy (2 of 3), Memory in Death, In Death 22, Morrigan's Cross, The Circle Trilogy (1 of 3), Valley of Silence, The Circle Trilogy (3 of 3), Innocent in Death, In Death 24. 2007: Blood Brothers, Sign of Seven Trilogy (1 of 3), Creation in Death, In Death 25, Eternity in Death, In Death 24.5, High Noon. 2008: The Hollow, Sign of Seven Trilogy (2 of 3), The Pagan Stone, Sign of Seven Trilogy (3 of 3), Ritual in Death, In Death 27.5, Salvation in Death, In Death 27, Strangers in Death, In Death 26, Tribute. 2009: Bed of Roses, The Bride Quartet (2 of 4), Black Hills, Kindred in Death, In Death 29, Missing in Death, In Death 29.5, Promises in Death, In Death 28, Vision in White, The Bride Quartet (1 of 4). 2010s: 2010: Fantasy in Death, In Death 30, Savor the Moment, The Bride Quartet (3 of 4), The Search, Indulgence in Death, In Death 31, Possession in Death, In Death 31.5, Happy Ever After, The Bride Quartet (4 of 4). 2011: Treachery in Death, In Death 32, Chasing Fire, New York to Dallas, In Death 33, Chaos in Death, In Death 33.5, The Next Always, Inn Boonsboro Trilogy (1 of 3). 2012: Celebrity in Death, In Death 34, The Witness, The Last Boyfriend, Inn Boonsboro Trilogy (2 of 3), Delusion in Death, In Death 35, The Perfect Hope, Inn Boonsboro Trilogy (3 of 3). 2013: Calculated in Death, In Death 36, Whiskey Beach, Thankless in Death, In Death 37, Taken in Death, In Death 37.5, Dark Witch, Cousins O'Dwyer Trilogy (1 of 3). 2014: Concealed in Death, In Death 38, Shadow Spell, Cousins O'Dwyer Trilogy (2 of 3), The Collector, Blood Magick, Cousins O'Dwyer Trilogy (3 of 3), Festive in Death, In Death 39.

#13- David Oyedepo - Net Worth - $150 Million

Age: 60

Date of birth: (Born September 27, 1954)

Known for writing: Christian, inspirational and motivational books

2013 earnings: Unknown

David Oyedepo has earned his fortune as a Nigerian Christian author and a preacher. David has produced some very successful books and among his best sellers are listed below in his bibliography.

Book list: Pillars of Destiny, Exploits in Ministry, Walking in Dominion, Possessing your Possession, Exploits of Faith, Anointing for Exploits, Walking in the Newness of Life, Maximise Destiny, Commanding the Supernatural, Winning Invisible Battles, Success Strategies, Success Systems, Towards Excellency in Life and Ministry, Excellency of Wisdom, Breaking Financial Hardship, The Release of Power, Excellency of Wisdom, Born to Win, The Miracle Meal, The Healing Balm, The Blood Triumph, Keys to Divine Health, Fulfilling Your Days, Breaking the Curses of life, All You Need to Have All Your Needs Met, Emergence Of The Glorious Church, Manifestation of the Spirits of God, The Unlimited Power of Faith, Ruling your World, The Idea of a University.

#14- Dean Koontz - Net Worth - $145 Million

Age: 69

Date of birth: (Born July 9, 1945)

Known for writing: Suspense thrillers

2012 earnings: $19 million (source- Forbes Magazine)

Dean Koontz has earned his fortune as an American author and has written under a number of pen names including David Axton, Leigh Nichols and Brian Coffey. Dean has reportedly sold more than 450 million copies and several of his books have made it onto the ''New York Times'' best seller list, with 14 paperbacks and 14 hardbacks making it to the number one position.

Book list: Novels: Black Cat Mysteries/Mike Tucker Series: Blood Risk (1973), Surrounded (1974), The Wall of Masks (1975). Moonlight Bay Series: Fear Nothing (1998), Seize the Night (1999). Odd Thomas Series: Odd Thomas (2003), Forever Odd (2005), Brother Odd (2006), Odd Hours (2008), Odd Interlude (2012), Odd Apocalypse (2012), Deeply Odd (2013), Saint Odd (2014). Odd Thomas Prequels: In Odd We Trust (2008), Odd Is On Our Side (2010), House of Odd (2012). Frankenstein Series: Prodigal Son (2005), City of Night (2005), Dead and Alive (2009), Last Souls (2010), The Dead Town (2011). Others: Star Quest (1968), Fear That Man (1969), The Fall of the Dream Machine (1969), The Dark Symphony (1969), Hell's Gate (1970), Soft Come the Dragons (1970), Dark of the Woods (1970), Beastchild (1970), Anti-Man (1970), Demon Child (1971), The Crimson Witch (1971), Legacy of Terror (1971), Warlock (1972), Time Thieves (1972), Starblood (1972), The Flesh in the Furnace (1972), A Darkness in My Soul (1972), Chase (1972), Children of the Storm (1972), Dance with the Devil (1972), The Dark of Summer (1972), The Haunted Earth (1973), Demon Seed (1973), A Werewolf Among Us (1973), Shattered (1973), Hanging On (1973), Strike Deep (1974), After the Last Race (1974), Nightmare Journey (1975), The Long Sleep (1975), Dragonfly (1975), Invasion (1975), Prison of Ice (1976), Night Chills (1976), The Face of Fear (1977), The Vision (1977), The Key to Midnight (1979), The Funhouse (1980), Whispers (1980), The Voice of the Night (1980), The Eyes of Darkness (1981), The Mask (1981), The House of Thunder (1982), Phantoms (1983), Darkfall (1984), Twilight (1984), Twilight Eyes (1985), The Door to December (1985), Strangers (1986), Watchers (1987), Shadow Fires (1987), Lightning (1988), Oddkins: A Fable for All Ages (1988), Midnight (1989), The Bad Place (1991), Cold Fire (1992), Hideaway (1992), Dragon Tears (1993), Mr. Murder (1993), Winter Moon (1994), Dark Rivers of the Heart (1994), Icebound (1995), Strange Highways (1995), Intensity (1995), Ticktock (1996), Sole Survivor (1997), False Memory (1999), From the Corner of His Eye (2000), One Door Away from Heaven (2001), By the Light of the Moon (2002), The Face (2003), The Taking (2004), Life Expectancy (2004), Velocity (2005), The Husband (2006), The Good Guy (2007), The Darkest Evening of the Year (2007), Your Heart Belongs to Me (2008), Relentless (2009), Breathless (2009), Darkness Under the Sun (2010), What the Night Knows (2010), The Moonlit Mind (2011), 77 Shadow Street (2011), Wilderness (2013), Innocence (2013), The Neighbour (2014), The City (2014). Non-Fiction: How to Write Best Selling Fiction (1981), Writing Popular Fiction (1972).

#15- Stephenie Meyer - Net Worth - $125 Million

Age: 41

Date of birth: (Born December 24, 1973)

Known for writing: fantasy/romance (aimed towards young-adults)

2012 earnings: $14 million (source- therichest.com)

Stephenie Meyer has made her fortune as an American author and film producer, best known for her wildly successful fantasy/romance series Twilight. The Twilight novels have sold more than 100 million copies, with the bonus of worldwide recognition, giving Stephenie a foundation to build her future writing on.

Book list: Twilight Series: Twilight (2005), New Moon (2006), Eclipse (2007), Breaking Dawn (2008), The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner (2010), The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide (2011). Other: The Host (2008).

#16- Dan Brown - Net Worth - $120 Million

Age: 50

Date of birth: (Born June 22, 1964)

Known for writing: Thrillers

2013 earnings: $22 million (source- Forbes Magazine)

Dan Brown has made his fortune as an American author who is best known for his books based around the Robert Langdon character. The book Dan is best known for is The Da Vinci Code (2003), which overall his books have sold more than 200 million copies. Although Dan's bibliography is few in work, he has had to of his books including The Da Vinci Code and Angels and Demons adapted into films.

Book list: Robert Langdon Series: Angels and Demons (2000), The Da Vinci Code (2003), The Lost Symbol (2009), Inferno (2013). Other: Digital Fortress (1998), Deception Point (2001).

#17- Mary Higgins Clark - Net Worth - $110 Million

Age: 87

Date of birth: (Born December 24, 1927)

Known for writing: Suspense

2013 earnings: Unknown

Mary Higgins Clark has made her fortune as an American of suspense novels. All of Mary's books have been best sellers in the US and her début novel, Where Are the Children? has been printed 75 times, due to its wide popularity among her fans.

Book list: Fiction: Aspire to the Heavens (1968), Where Are The Children? (1975) A Stranger is Watching (1977), The Cradle Will Fall (1980), A Cry in the Night (1982), Stilwatch (1984), Weep No More, My Lady (1987), While My Pretty One Sleeps (1989), The Anastasia Syndrome and Other Stories (1989), Voices in the Coal Bin (1990), Loves Music, Loves to Dance (1991), All Around the Town (1992), I'll Be Seeing You (1993), Death on the Cape and Other Stories (1993), Milk Run and Stowaway (1993), Remember Me (1994), The Lottery Winner and Other Stories (1994), Let Me Call You Sweetheart (1995), Silent Night (1995), Moonlight Becomes You (1996), My Gal Sunday: Henry and Sunday Stories (1996), Pretend You Don't See Her (1997), You Belong to Me (1998), All Through the Night (1998), We'll Meet Again (1999), Before I Say Good-Bye (2000), Deck the Halls (2000), On the Street Where You Live (2001), He See's You When You're Sleeping (2001), Daddy's Little Girl (2002), The Second Time Around (2003), Nighttime Is My Time (2004), The Christmas Thief (2004), No Place Like Home (2005), Two Little Girls in Blue (2006), Santa Cruise (2006), Ghost Ship: A Cape Cod Story (2007), I Heard That Song Before (2007), Where Are You Now? (2008), Dashing Through the Snow (2008), Just Take My Heart (2009), The Shadow of Your Smile (2010), I'll Walk Alone (2011), The Magical Christmas Horse (2011), The Lost Years (2012), Daddy's Gone A Hunting (2013), I've Got You Under My Skin (2014). Non-Fiction: Kitchen Privileges, A Memoir.

#18- Bill Watterson - Net Worth - $100 Million

Age: 56

Date of birth: (Born July 5, 1958)

Known for writing: Comic strips

2013 earnings: Unknown

Bill Watterson has made his fortune as an American author and artist of the comic strip, Calvin and Hobbes. Bill began Calvin and Hobbes in 1985 but ended it in 1995 and decided to take up his private life painting as he'd felt that he had done all that he could with the comic strips.

Book list: Calvin and Hobbes Books: The Essential Calvin and Hobbes (1988), The Authoritative Calvin and Hobbes (1990), The Indispensable Calvin and Hobbes (1992), Attack of the Deranged Mutant Killer Monster Snow Goons (1992), The Days Are Just Packed (1993), Homicidal Psycho Jungle Cat (1994), There's Treasure Everywhere (1996), It's a Magical World (1996).

#19- Janet Evanovich - Net Worth - $100 Million

Age: 71

Date of Birth: (Born April 22, 1943)

Known for Writing: Romance

2013 earnings: $24 million (source- Forbes Magazine)

Janet Evanovich has made her fortune as an American author and started her career under the pen name Steffie Hall. Although after writing a series of modern mysteries featuring Stephanie Plum, her novels in this series have been the ''New York Times'' best sellers list.

Book list: Elsie Hawkins Series: Back to the Bedroom (1989), Smitten (1990), Wife for Hire (1990), Rocky Road to Romance (1991). Stephanie Plum Series: One for the Money (1994), Two for the Dough (1996), Three to Get Deadly (1997), Four to Score (1998), High Five (1999), Hot Six (2000), Seven Up (2001), Hard-Eight (2002), To the Nines (2003), Ten Big Ones (2004), Eleven on Top (2005), Twelve Sharp (2006), Lean Mean Thirteen (2007), Fearless Fourteen (2008), Finger Lickin' Fifteen (2009), Sizzling Sixteen (2010), Smoking' Seventeen (2011), Explosive Eighteen (2011), Notorious Nineteen (2012), Takedown Twenty (2013), Top Secret Twenty-One (2014). Wicked Series: Wicked Appetite (2010), Wicked Business (2012). The Barnaby Series: Metro Girl (2004), Motor Mouth (2006), Troublemaker 1, Troublemaker 2 (2010). Charlotte Hughes Series: Full House (1989), Full Tilt (2003), Full Speed (2003), Full Blast (2004), Full Bloom (2005), Full Scoop (2006). Fox and O'Hare Series: Pros and Cons (2013), The Heist (2013), The Chase (2014), The Job (2014). Other Novels: Hero at Large (1987), Foul Play (1989), The Grand Finale (1988), Thanksgiving (1988), Manhunt (1988), Ivan Takes a Wife (1988), Naughty Neighbour (1992), Visions of Sugar Plums (2002), Plum Loving' (2007), Hot Stuff (2007), Plum Lucky (2008), Plum Spooky (2009), Love in a Nutshell (2012), The Husband List (2013). Non-Fiction: How I Write (2006).

#20- Bill O'Reilly - Net Worth - $85 Million

Age: 65

Date of birth: (Born September 10, 1949)

Known for writing: Historical books

2013 earnings: $28 million (source- Forbes Magazine)

Bill O'Reilly has made his fortune as an American author, television host, columnist and political commentator. Bill has more recently become a successful author, nearly making as much as an author as he does as a television host.

Book list: Those Who Trespass (1998), The O'Reilly Factor: The Good, The Bad, and the Completely Ridiculous in American Life (2000), The No Spin Zone (2001), Who's Looking Out For You? (2003), Charles Flowers (2004), Culture Warrior (2006), Kids Are Americans Too (2007), A Bald Fresh Piece of Humanity: A Memoir (2008), Pinheads and Patriots: Where You Stand in the Age of Obama (2010), Killing Lincoln: The Shocking Assassination That Changed America Forever (2011), Lincoln's Last Days: The Shocking Assassination That Changed America Forever (2012), Killing Kennedy: The End of Camelot (2012), Kennedy's Last Days: The Assassination That Defined a Generation (2013), Keep it Pithy: Useful Observations in a Tough World (2013), Killing Jesus: A History (2013), The Last Days of Jesus: His Life and Times (2014), Killing Patton: The Strange Death of World War II's Most Audacious General (2014).