Celebrating the life of Barbara Taylor Bradford

Martin Boucher

Canada

No words can truly express how saddened I am to learn of Ms. Bradford's passing. She is such an icon... I've been collecting her novels for decades and I am still in awe every time I crack open one of her books. Such a talented lady. I had the chance of having a quote of mine praising her work on her website years ago. It always made me smile seeing it. RIP, talented lady. How missed you will be

Yvette Jeter

United States

Condolences from a fan. A Woman of Substance was the first novel I read. After that reading became a large part of my life. I will never forget that book. I am 75 years old.

Monique and Michael de Vries

Netherlands

A book of Barbara Taylor Bradford is never far away in our house. We read them many times over and over again. Our condolences to her family and loved ones.

W. Randall Jones

United States

It was always easy to close every visit with and every phone call to Barbara with a sincere “I love you!” because truth is simple to express. I will miss her stories, I will miss her droll sense of humor, I will miss her occasional lectures, but most of all, I will miss her love.

Liana Tan Wei Ee

Singapore

You are my favourite author for all these years. I am sad to receive the news of your passed-on. You will always be remembered.

Janice Smith

England

Oh my..how terribly terribly sad. I met Barbara In John Smith's bookstore on Glasgow many many years ago and she personally autographed her latest bestseller for me. I was and always have been a huge fan. Heaven's gain is our loss, however, I know she will be with Bob the love of her life! I am about to start rereading her Fabulous books!!!! R.I.P. The Queen of fiction, With deep heartfelt

Daniella Bernett

United States

A Woman of Substance is one of my favorite books. I read it when I was 13. Since I was nine years old, I wanted to be a writer. When I was a journalism student, I was honored when Barbara Taylor Bradford granted me an interview for my university’s Journalism Society newspaper. She was so gracious. I will never forget her kindness. She was an inspiration in my writing career.

Belenda Sion

Malaysia

I have most of her books in my collection!! Her first book I read was A woman of substance. And the rest is history....

Steffie Hilgers

England

I was devastated to hear of Barbara\'s death. I have loved her books and have been an avid fan ever since my Aunt lent me Woman of Substance. I have every one of her books and could never wait for the next one to appear. Sadly this will never happen again. Rest in Peace Barbara, you deserve it

Trudi Orchard

England

Today I heard the saddest news regarding my favourite Author, Since most probably 1980 I was gifted A woman of Substance, I have not stopped reading her books 📚, even re-reading. I literally do have every book, including the e-books. I going to miss the no more of the Hartes, Falconors, Swanns etc, there was so much more to discover. Rest in peace Barbara, Robert is waiting. Thank you so muc

Hazel Beckett

England

Thank you for the many hours of pleasure which reading your wonderful, uplifting books has given me over the years. I read A Woman of Substance when it was first published, and have bought all your books since then, not to mention watching all the mini-series which have been filmed from them. Rest in Peace dear Barbara.

Dorothy Rollins

United States

I have enjoyed reading her books. They were hard to put down especially the ones about Emma Harte. Rest in peace with your husband

Connie Reynolds

Canada

So very sorry to learn you went to the other side. Have so enjoyed being part of your Facebook family of fans and enjoyed our occasional direct messages. Have re read the books several times and always had hoped there would be new mini series perhaps. See you on the other side. A forever fan.

John Mitcham

England

Having met Barbara at two events, Haworth the home of the Brontë sisters & Harwood house, it was a pleasure to chat about her books & life locally .

Nikki

England

I was very sorry to learn of Barbara's death. A few years before she passed away, my late mother introduced me to her Emma Harte series, and I fell in love. They inspired me to try my own hand at writing. After my mother's funeral, my dad took me and my sister away on holiday, and I chose to take Just Rewards to read on the plane. I had finished it before we had landed.

Kathie Levine

England

Loved Barbara Taylor Bradford ever since I read a Woman of Substance when it was first published and have read every one of her books ever since.

Francine Lebreton

Canada

Rest in peace beautiful Lady, you were my favorite writer. I have love all your books

Christine Filomena

England

I am so sorry to hear this news, I cannot believe it, I couldn’t wait for your books to be released and when I was reading them I did not want them to end.

Rosetta Dean

United States

Wonderful author

Gearoid O Cróinín

Thailand

Quite simply the best - gracious, gifted, generous and good-humored, Mrs Bradford together with Mr Bradford were a pleasure to work for and a joy to know.

Diane Lovett

Australia

Loved you since Emma & Blackie & Woman of Substance is still my Favourite book ever. Vale Barbara

Carol Skyner

England

I am so sad to hear that Barbara has passed away. She is my Favourite Author. The first book I read was A Woman of Substance, I was immediately hooked and fell in love with all her books and stlye. She was an incredible writer. Her books will live on forever. Thank you Barbara for all the joy you have brought to so many people.. Rest in peace🙏❤️

Carey Nyman

United States

I read A Woman of Substance when it first came out. After that, I bought or borrowed many more. Most of the time I couldn’t put her books down. RIP, Barbara .

Patti Kelleher

United States

I was a huge fan of Barbara's as soon as I read A Woman of Substance years ago. She is my favourite author of all time. Sending prayers of comfort to her family. May she rest peacefully in eternity.

Margaret Allan

England

Such sad news 😔 Thank you for your amazing books I can truly say I’ve read every single one of them . You were a true Yorkshire Lass . RIP

Anthony Tassi

United States

Rest in Power. We loved your care and concern for those less fortunate and your wicked sense of humor. We'll keep you in our hearts and minds forever. What a lovely life well lived.

Sara Bryson

United States

So very sad to read of her passing. Her books were the highlight if my reading! Whenever a new book would release I would ask any family member traveling to the UK to pick up the hard cover copy for me. She will be missed, but at least we have her stories to keep her in our hearts. Rest In Peace Barbara.

National Literacy Trust

England

Barbara was a powerful ambassador for the National Literacy Trust not just because she was an advocate for our work, but because her books made reading irresistible. She intuitively understood that our mission was about social justice. We will miss her massively.

Gurdie Corell

United States

After reading, "A Women of Substance," I wanted to become a Author like Mrs Bradford, she was the example of what it meant to be an excellent author and master of drama. Off the pages of her novels she lived a life of hard work and elegance, her style set her apart from other authors. She knew how she wanted the world to see her completely elegant at all times! Thank you Barbara!!

Pamela Margetson

England

You gave me a gift of your wonderful books. I’m going to miss you. RIP Barbara reunited with your beloved Bob.

Michael Bayer

Germany

It is with deep sadness that I read of the passing of this wonderful author. A Woman of Substance and the follow ups are unforgetable books - often reread and cherrished since almost 40 years. God bless.

Jenny McArthur

Australia

Rest in peace our beautiful Barbara.🥰

Avisa Dani

Canada

I’m so sad to hear Barbara‘s death. She was and she will always be my favourite author ever. I loved all her books. It has been a privilege for me to exchange personal message with her. I will never forget one of her gifts sending to me by mail one of her books. When the novel a letter from a stranger came out, she sent it to me as a gift in audio version.

Susan Malarky

Scotland

Loved every one of her books.

Maria Joso Gonçalves

Portugal

My sincere and deep condolences to Barbara Taylor Bradford family. What a great loss. I have spend part of my life reading her fantastic books and I will miss her company. Love, MJG

I Penman

Scotland

I am so sorry to hear this sad news, condolences to Barbara's family. I thoroughly enjoyed 'A Woman of Substance' series and named my first born after Emma Harte. You will be missed. RIP BARBARA

Heather Turnham

England

Barbara Taylor Bradford was a true lady. I was privileged to meet her at a book signing organised by The Lady magazine in London a few years ago. She was absolutely charming of course and very elegant. A Woman of Substance is one of my favourite books and it was so beautifully acted by Jenny Seagrove. We shall miss this amazing lady. Rest in peace dear Barbara.

Alison Quinn

Australia

My favourite book of all time was A Woman of Substance I loved the character Emma Harte I named one of my daughters Emma

Barb Fogg

Australia

I have all Barbara s books I love them have been reading them for 42 years. So sad to hear of the passing of Such a loved author sending big hugs to all her family 💐

Rosie Nixon

England

What a formidable and incredible woman Barbara was. She was an inspiration to us all and especially us female writers. I will never forget that amazing dinner we had at Corinthia London and how lucky I was to have a chat about my own writing with Barbara. A true legend. Until we meet again. Rosie ❤️

Louise Auty

England

As a fellow Leeds girl and former journalist, Barbara was an inspiration to me growing up in the 1980s. I started my journalism career just 10 miles away from the Yorkshire Post/Evening Post building. Her books were a companion in my younger days and she continued to inspire me throughout my 20 year career in local journalism.

Ingrid Maria Bourne

England

With very fond memories- Maria xxxxx

Alana Wood

Australia

A woman of substance was a book my grandmother gave me and I loved it from a young age and have continued to read and reared the story as it continued over the years. Her talent for wring was amazing and I have never loved to read an authors book as much as I read hers. A true talent will never be forgotten. Thank you for creating such wonderful stories of Emma Harte and her family. RIP

Sarah Joanne

England

I first encountered the works of Barbara Taylor Bradford as a teenager and loved A Woman of Substance. It was a thoroughly gripping read, to which I have returned to reread when in need of hearing her message about the ability to endure and to come through the other side stronger than before. Thank you for such wonderful works of fiction. May you rest in eternal peace.

Mary Newell

United States

I am so sorry to hear about Barbara's passing. She was such a great writer. The book world is lonely place today.

Lauren Pavin

United States

How do you meet a woman like Barbara Taylor Bradford? You don’t. She meets you, with a cunning wit and an open heart. You listen. She talks. Barbara spoke so women would listen, so men would bow. She will be missed and she will be forever loved.

Carolyn Laxton

United States

I'm so sorry to hear. One of my favorite authors! I will continue to read some of her past books for sure. God Bless her family and friends that surrounded her! Beautiful Lady!!

Shell Cunliffe

England

A Woman of Substance is my all time favourite book and series. RIP Barbara now reunited with Robert.

Aimee Hardy

England

She was the first author i read as an adult and she made me fall in love with reading her books took you to another place. I owe my love of books to her. A beautiful writer who's books will live on through others.

Kirsten Pedersen Soble

United States

My Auntie Barbara, A part of my life since the day I was born. So many memories of dinners and luncheons, especially at Le Veau D'or with mom and dad, and late night parties at our home. May her memory be a blessing.

Tricia Dowling

Scotland

I have had the honour and privilege to have met Barbara on many occasions. Always the most gracious of hosts and a really lovely and very witty lady. Such a remarkable life

Patricia Gussin

United States

Barbara has remained an inspiration throughout my writing and publishing career. I will never forget the emotional impact of reading "A Woman of Substance." I absolutely love her novels.

Elvie Ellen thomson

Australia

So sad to hear of the passing of this wonderful person .I loved reading her books. She will be sadly missed.

Louise Poynton

England

As a young journalist in 1979 I was looking for an inspiration outside of the newsroom. I found her in A Woman of Substance, not just the character of Emma Harte but for the most part, Barbara. Our lives - and this country - is better for her being it in. Barbara's writing style and the characters she introduced us to, makes her the finest writer of our generation.

Gillian Armitage

England

An absolutely remarkable lady. I have all of her which will now be treasured forever. Once you pick up one of her books you cannot put them down. I had the pleasure of meeting this wonderful lady in Leeds where she signed one of my books. Absolute legend. She will be greatly missed. A massive thank you for all your amazing books. Rest in peace Barbara Taylor Bradford OBE🥰

Kim Scott

England

I am so very very sorry to hear this vey sad news. My best author by a country mile xx

Zofia Paczuła

Poland

My sincere and heartful condolences for the family. I adored Emma's Hart story and Paula's one... They have inspired me, left in awe and sparked my imagination the way no other novel did. For that: Thank you Madame Bradford. I will never forget first time I read your novel, and many more times I read it again and again. They accompanied lots of my memories. ❤️

Beverley Jones

Wales

Very sad to hear this news. Barbara was my favourite author by far and love all her books especially The Woman of Substance which I could read over and over again..My condolences to her family.

Sharon B

United States

Rest in blessed peace. I met you at a book signing event and you had the most honest, warm and sincere smile I have ever seen. Thankful for the many books I have read.

Jean Ellen Taylor.

Australia

Rest In Peace dear lady. Thankyou for your wonderful memories in your writings. I am one of many who spent much time reading your books and loved them . A life’s work well done and now reunited with your beloved husband .

Cecilia Sheppard

United States

Barbara Taylor Bradford's books were a great source of entertainment and inspiration to me. "A Woman of Substance" fired my imagination and impacted my own writing. I did not have the pleasure of meeting her personally, but she meant a great deal to me. Rest well.

Weronika Umińska

Poland

Thank You Barbara for showing us how to be a Woman of Substance.

Vickie Potter

United States

Condolences to Barbara's family and friends. She is my favorite author and I own most of her novels and stories. Her contributions to world literature are tremendous and will never be forgotten. Thank you, Barbara Taylor Bradford, for all you have done for so many! Enjoy your reunion with your beloved Robert.

Patricia D'Arcy Laughlin

United States

I am broken-hearted. She was such an inspiration to me as an author and as a woman. She was indeed "A Woman of Substance."

Oscar Dunning

England

40 books thats crazy rest in peace:( forever in our hearts

Reza Ahmed

England

RIP Legend

Rachel Abugov

Canada

On my bookshelf is my third copy of A Woman of Substance. I wore out the first two copies from reading them so many times. The only other books that I have worn out are Jane Eyre and A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. All classics in their own right. May her memory be a blessing.

Martie Nutting

England

She was an amazing writer. Her stories really brought the reader into a mesmerising world. It is sad that there won't be any new books in the future.

Beverley Ann Hopper

England

The book world has lost a talented iconic writer RIP Barbara. Deeply missed

Paula Nunes

United States

A Woman of Substance was the first novel I read by the great Barbara Taylor Bradford, I own 3 copies, one is the original paperback I have read so many times I’ve lost count, one I purchased as a loaner (but never loaned out lol) and one is an original hardback copy. Because of that first book I have read every book she ever wrote. Her talent and her beautiful soul will be truly missed.

Janet Bainbridge

England

Sad news, read lot of her book, my old time favorite book Woman of a Substance.

Paul-David Van Atta

United States

My dear Barbara, I will miss you so much but I will smile as I remember our long calls, the giggles we shared and our many adventures in Texas with Barbara Bush and others. Now you and Bob can pick up where you left off. You both impacted my life deeply with your unwavering love and a friendship that I will forever cherish.

Suzanne O'Connor

Australia

Thank you for the many happy hours reading your your books. My grandma introduced me to A Woman Of Subsequent and I have enjoyed your books. Condolences To Your Family. 🤍🕊

Miss Michelle Ardin

England

RIP Barbara. You will be sadly missed but never forgotten. I will think of you every time I read one of your books. There are no favourites, I have enjoyed every single one. I love losing myself in the pages of one of the many novels. Sincere condolences to all the family. You all be in my thoughts at this very sad time.

Leonard Eric Parton

England

Sorry to hear this sad news. Leeds born Barbara kindly sent me signed bookplates to insert into copies of her books.

Ann Brenda Oversby

England

I had the pleasure of meeting her at two of Barbara lunches. Yorkshire and London, she was such a delightful person and made you feel very comfortable talking to her. I feel as if I have lost a friend, that is the effect she has on people.RIP.

Diane Brewer

United States

RIP Ms. Bradford! Many years have passed since I read A Woman of Substance and it still remains my all time favorite book! You and your glorious books will most definitely be missed! ❤️🙏

Jillian Rideout

Canada

RIP Barbara Taylor Bradford. Thank you for sharing your talent with us. ❤️

Nichole Arizona

United States

I was 12 years old when I watched the mini-series at home as a latchkey kid home alone most days and evenings. It was the first time I had ever seen a strong, independent woman. While I did not climb the corporate ladder, I never forgot and have watched it at least two dozen times in the decades that have followed and own a copy. I share it with every young woman I know. Thank you for your gif

Catriona Ryan

United States

The first book I read was Power of a Woman and it had a huge impact on me. I quickly starting reading all her books. The Emma Harte Saga is my favorite but I love all her books. Barbara Taylor Bradford is going to be greatly missed.

Luisa Nucciarone

Canada

A Woman of Substance was and still is my first all-time favorite book. Barbara was the only author that I read every book she released. Thank you, Barbara Taylor Bradford, for all the characters and sceneries that still live in my mind. Godspeed, Beautiful Woman

Ileen Dunman

United States

I remember seeing Barbara in St. Louis at the book signing at the Harris casino many years ago she signed my book 'A Woman of Substance' and I will never forget it. She’s was more beautiful in person than her pictures. She was very gracious kind sweet and just a sweetheart, I will miss her books so much Rest in peace Barbara.

Gordon Georgiou

Greece

Just like to say my mother read her books every night. She used to read her books and get us up for work me and my 2 brothers, and when we came home work she would tell us all about what she read the night before.

Liz Dawson

England

Working with Barbara was joyous, the best of my professional life. Hard working, fun, never a hair out of place, lipstick bright and always ready for the worlds stage! An extraordinary woman who became my confidante and my friend. I'm lucky to have known her, to have learned from her and to have loved her.

Maria Boyle

England

Despite global success, Barbara remained grounded. At the end of her annual book tours, we’d celebrate with fish & chips. I’d joke: “Look at us, two women from Yorkshire, living it up at The Dorchester,” and we’d share a laugh over a glass of fizz. RIP Barbara – you were the best.

Deborah Wright

United States

I loved her books, especially The Woman of Substance series of books, many of the stories, gave me strength in my own life. I was hoping, when I opened the email, It would be about a new book release, not her death. A great honor would be if they could make movies out of her wonderful books.

Amy Ayotte

United States

Thank you for bringing such beautiful characters to life....

JF

England

Thank you for so many hours of enjoyment spent reading your books. I especially enjoyed meeting you at a book signing in London.

Stephanie Chorney

Canada

I remember my mom telling me about “Women of Substance”. In 2001 I was going through a lot, some positive (including pregnancy) and some negative (including Grandma dying) so I decided to read the book to distract myself. I read the first three books and fell in love. I have re-read those 3 books several times plus the rest of the series. Barbara Taylor Bradford will be missed.

Michele JW Pittman

United States

I am greatly saddened to hear of our loss of a tremendous force on Earth. I believe it is a loss to us all. The innocent depictions of intimacy between characters in her books, and the simplicity of story resolutions is a winning formula. I have read many of her works, beginning in junior high. Romance was my obsession, and her sweetly crafted stories sustained me!

Mrs Anne Langley

England

So sorry to hear this news, I’ve loved Barbara’s books and really enjoyed the series ‘ Woman of Substance ‘, I couldn’t put it down. Rest in peace Barbara.

Samantha Davey

England

My grandmother introduced me to as she called it "Barbara's World" when I was a teenager and I continued the collection of books when she passed away many years ago now. I now have every book both paper and kindle version Barbara wrote. She has been and will always be my favourite author. Thank you Barbara for allowing my mind to go on the most amazing adventures with you.

Mary Long

United States

She opened my world to reading! She has always been one of my favorites. Thank you Barbara!

Connie Miller

United States

I loved Barbara’s books especially the Emma Harte books-A Woman of Substance. These books are favorites of mine. So sorry to hear of your passing but now you will be reunited with your beloved husband.

Tony Smith

England

RIB Barbara Taylor Bradford, one of the worlds greatest authors. You courage and ambition has inspired me. You where and still are a true woman of substance. Rest in peace, and join your husband. You may be gone, but never forgotten.

PJ Stratton

United States

Barbara Taylor Bradford was my favorite author, and A Woman of Substance started my fandom of her excellent writing by the most beautiful lady. She inspired me to be a writer, editor, and storyteller and am thankful we were able to communicate on her Facebook page throughout the years. My heartfelt sympathies to her family, friends, and all her millions of fans who loved her dearly. Bless you!

Tanja Löschmann

Netherlands

I was shocked when I read Barbara died, but warmed to read that she lived her dreams. Her book "A Woman of Substance" inspired me from child to now 48 years. Last year I wrote a childrenbook. The main character is called Emma, just like the Emma in Barbara's book. Barbara was in my mind and heart a lot the last few months due to this. She is my inspiration to also be on the NY times Bestseller.

Debra Julius

United States

My condolences to her family, friends and loving global fans.

Gina Whited

United States

I am very sorry for your loss. Barbara was a class act. Her books were a comfort to me when I was going through a divorce. I traveled to exotic places thanks to her. She was amazing!!

Kim Dorn

Canada

Barbara Taylor Bradford was an amazing and gifted writer. I enjoyed all of her books over the years and will miss her enchanting new and old characters. As I have all of them still I will retrace the journey. Thank you and RIP Barbara Taylor Bradford. Peace be with your family and friends.

Barbara Taylor Bradford touched many lives. If you would like to share a special memory, tribute or reflection, please use the space below.

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Barbara wished for donations to be made to two charities she was proud to support throughout her career: