While definitely not one of the least loved FFs, I think FF9 deserves to be as loved as 6, 7, and 10. So much charm, amazing OST, great characters and arcs. And it has a good and believable love story.
Yes!
VIII is my favorite in the series, but I always preferred IX's romance. It progresses more naturally throughout the game, and I just love how whimsical the designs and towns are.