The genre that about which I've heard the most naysay is romance, without a doubt. Harlequin stuff. What I want to know is why? 

I know why I don't like many romance novels. Ordinary plots with stock characters, impossible situations portrayed as real-life situations, and (ladies pardon me for this one) I've always hated the 'strong, independent, modern woman who is in control of her life' character. That's usually the main character, of course. The reason I dislike them so much is because they're manipulative and egotistical, sexist, and rude. 

What do you think?