Celebrating the life of Barbara Taylor Bradford

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.

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! ❤️🙏

Karen Hermansen

United States

I loved Barbara's books. Her writing was so good. She will be missed.

Nancy Mulayas

Zambia

My So Saddened By The Passing Of The Legend Writer Barbara Taylor Bradford RIP🙏🏾Been Her fan for Many Years My favorite Book Is A Woman Of Substance ❤️ Which I Have Read Numerous Of Times Had Made An Impact On My Life To Make My Dreams Reality Thank You For The Great Books Amongst Your Biggest fans From Zambia 🇿🇲 Africa

Karen Wyles

England

Beautiful Barbara, your books touched my heart everytime, especially those about Emma Harte and her family. My heartfelt condolences to your family and loved ones at this sad time 💔. You are all part of English history and we are very proud to been able to enjoy such a special journey of literary excellence that your books have given to us and the world. R.I.P with the angels sweet lady xx

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.

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

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.

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.

Sandra Barry

Australia

A great writer and one that will be missed. Now reunited with her husband.

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.

Gail Smith

England

Very sad to hear of Barbara’s passing, I’ve read every single book of hers and will certainly miss her fabulous books. Rest in peace

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.

Ingrid Maria Bourne

England

With very fond memories- Maria xxxxx

Martha McDyef

United States

I LOVED BARBARA TAYLOR'S BRADFORD BOOKS ESPECIALLY A WOMAN OF SUBSTANCE. SHE WAS A WOMAN WHO BROUGHT ME THE LOVE OF READING HER BOOKS.

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

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!!

Gladys Nanyanga

Uganda

I am still reeling from her passing. Her first book, A Woman of Substance, shaped me into the person I am today. Thank you so much for it; it is and always will be my greatest read.

Brandy Champion

Canada

I backpacked through Europe and only had room for one book and I choose Women of Substance. My heart goes out to the family and friends of Barbara.

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."

Lee-ann Mccarley

Australia

Loved all of her books, A woman of substance is my favourite, just about to read another one of her books. Rest in Peace Barbara 🩷🩷

Deirdre Yearwood

England

Dearest Barbara. Thank you for your literacy prowess. I have enjoyed your books and films over the years. May you rest in peace with your beloved husband Robert.

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.

Rebecca Brady

United States

I have thoroughly enjoyed Barbara’s books throughout the years. She will be missed but we will be able to continue to read her books and say “Thank you”!

Lourdes DSouza

India

It's so sad to read about Mrs Bradford passing. She is one of my favourite authors and I have most of her books, collected over many years. We have lost a wonderful author. My most sincere condolences to her family.

Jackie Kripas

United States

I remember discovering Barbara Taylor Bradford with the reading of A Woman of Substance and became an immediate fan. Her characters were real, tough and tender, and I happily cheered them on through triumphs and tragedies. She will live on through her stories and new generations who will discover and love her just as I did. Rest easy with your beloved husband and know that your legacy remains.

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.

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.

Dian Ball

United States

Thank you for the many hours of delight in reading so many fabulous books. I loved all your stories. Rest in Peace

Beverley Ann Hopper

England

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

MARIAELENA MORALES

Mexico

REST IN PEACE, BARBARA🙏🏻🙏🏻. You will be miss, I always enjoyed reading your stories, They took me all around the world. Such a sad news!!

Emma Campbell

England

I only started reading the Emma Harte series of books this year, after wanting to read them for years! The reason- I am actually named after Emma Harte! My Mam was reading ‘A Woman of Substance’ when pregnant with me in the 80s! I absolutely loved the book too! I’m half way through the third in the series and they’re fantastic. What a legacy she leaves! Rest in peace Barbara. 💕

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.

T. Cole Jones

United States

Barbara and I shared a passion for the past. A brilliant raconteur, as well as historian, she could conjure the lost world of Elizabethan England or channel Winston Churchill’s defiance of Hitler like no one else. I was blessed to spend countless hours listening to her in rapt attention. I will forever miss you, Barbara.

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!

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.

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.

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!!

Dorothy Loucks

United States

What a stunning, loss of such a beautiful, gifted woman and author. I'm heartbroken over the news, but am so thankful for the wonderful books that were truly inspired and written with such meticulous detail that it defies description. I will cherish the Woman of Substance saga, and the other dynasties that Mrs Taylor Bradford wrote with such elegance and grace.

Ariana

Mauritius

We are each the authors of our own lives, Emma. We live in what we have created. There is no way to shift the blame and no one else to accept the accolades. Barbara Taylor Bradford, A Woman of Substance (Emma Harte Saga #1) You and your books shaped my childhood. Thank you for the wonderful legacy, which will forever live on in everyone's hearts.

Lesley Kane

Scotland

Had the pleasure of meeting Barbara and her husband Robert at a book signing in Glasgow. She will be missed.

Jane Banda

Zambia

A Woman of Substance Trilogy will always be one of my best reads. I always look back to my teen years when I read these books with nostalgia. One of my optimistic views is "Hold the dream: To be the best". Thank you Barbara Taylor Bradford!

Joanne Moore

England

So sad to hear of your passing. Your books have brought me so much joy over the years. You were certainly an author of substance. Rest in peace.

Karen Leger

United States

You inspired me to get into journalism as my entry into being a novelist. I'll never forget how 'A Woman of Substance' changed my world and I wanted to be just like you. Thank you for the kind words you said to me.

Janet Bainbridge

England

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

Linda Morrison

United States

Oh my gosh, so sorry to hear this!! I loved all her stories, am currently re-reading the "A Woman of Substance" series. Such a great author.

Tracy McGurn

Scotland

I was shocked and saddened to hear of this brilliant author passing. I loved all the books but particularly the Woman of Substance series. Rereading them countless times, the series is my go to when I need comforting. Thank you so much for this Barbara and rest in peace.

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

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.

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.

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.

Amy Ayotte

United States

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

Diane Hock

United States

May you rest in peace. I thoroughly enjoyed reading all your books. Prayers to the family🙏🙏🙏🙏.

Debra Watson

England

Thank you for all your amazing books that I have been able to read. Thoughts are with your family and friends. RIP lovely lady ❤️

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.

Kevin Pendry

United States

I started reading Barbara Taylor Bradford close to 40 years ago. Of course I started with A Woman of Substance. I loved her and her books, and waited each year for the next book, secretly hoping it continued the Harte saga, which sometimes it did. She became a holiday tradition for me; I'd read AWOS every year between Thanksgiving and Christmas. I'll continue it. I will miss her so very much.

Eva Jane Mohr

United States

A beautiful friend inside and out. We will miss you with all our hearts and remember the fabulous times we had together. May you rest in peace and know that you will never, ever be forgotten. We loved you and Bob so much. Eva and Stanley Mohr.

Gilbert Barrett

United States

I’m so sorry to hear this. I so enjoyed reading her books. Many hours of entertaining stories & great characters. RIP.

Elizabeth Lynn L Kurszewski

United States

Thank you for sharing your life and your wonderful books with us Barbara rest in peace your Fan

Sharon Hoge

United States

Truly a woman of creativity and class

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.

Ruth Tierney

England

R.I.P Barbara United again with your husband You will be missed I have all your books and have truly loved reading them. Thank you ❤️

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.

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.

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.

Agnieszka Różycka

Poland

Barbara Taylor Bradford's novels have accompanied me for as long as I can remember. The news of her death saddened me greatly. In the summer of 2016, I had the pleasure of interviewing her for Polish readers. It was something really special for me. I was immensely pleased when she agreed to talk to me. Thank you, Barbara, for all the wonderful moments I spent reading your books.

Mary Long

United States

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

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 .

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

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.

Maureen Salvatore

United States

Barbara you and your books will be so missed. You had me with A Woman of Substance, and everyone after ~ Rest well Barbara Taylor Bradford

Caroline Hamer (Nee Bennett)

England

I attended Mrs Bradford's school, Northcote and ..am still in contact with the daughter of Mrs Bradford's schoolfriend. I was shocked and saddened to learn of Mrs Bradfords death. Our old school was known for turning out strong women with a sense of duty and respect. Mrs Bradford embodied these traits and is a loss to the world. Truly "A woman of Substance"

Ellen Dean

England

A truly inspirational woman. RIP Barbara.

Jennifer Kasiah

United States

I am so sorry to hear of Barbara's passing. I loved reading all of her books she wrote. I could never choose a favorite. She led an extraordinary life.

Nikki Carberry

South Africa

A Woman of Substance was my first book that introduced me to her writing the young age of 16. Since then I always have eagerly read her books. Her books are amazing and I will greatly miss looking forward to her new release. May she rest in peace!

Barbara Liebman

United States

I was so sad to learn that Barbara Taylor Bradford passed away. I loved all her books, especially all the Woman of Substance books. She will be missed.

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. 🤍🕊

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.

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.

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.

Connie Cole Jones

United States

Barbara was a second mother to me for over three decades though she preferred to think of us as sisters. Whether sisterly love or motherly affection, it was love that mattered. I loved her, cherished celebrating so many of life’s occasions together and adored learning from her brilliant life. BTB, I will miss you forever!

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🥰

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. ❤️

Sandi Sharp

Australia

Barbara was my favourite author. From the moment I read A Woman of Substance I was hooked and eagerly awaited the next novel. The characters in all her books had a way of drawing you in and feeling part of their lives. Very sad to hear of her passing. She will be greatly missed. RIP Barbara

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.

Delbora Dixon-Green

United States

Her books were some of my first I read as an adult and continued to read throughout my lifetime. I shall definitely miss her genius as a storyteller. May she rest in peace!

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.

Vanna Taddeucci

Italy

I am so so sorry. Loved her books. My favourites were those of the series of A WOMAN OF SUBSTANCE. Still have all of them which I re-read periodically. My condolances to the family.

Nikolay Golovachev

Russian Federation

I deeply regret the death of my beloved author of A Woman of Substance - my first book of hers. Then I continued to follow arrival of her new novels like an Act of Will, and others. I made recommendations to my friends to read BTB novels.

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!!

Angela Wooff

England

A Woman of Substance was the first full book I ever read, made me cry and was just exceptionally a brilliant read, all the saga, then read the others and bought the video lol RIP Barbara, I'm now going to get it out and read it again xxxx

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.

Beverly Joan Shanks

Australia

Of course we thought you would live forever, but you will in your books that we love so much. Love and best wishes to your family

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....

Judi Keane

Ireland

Thank you Barbara for enriching my life, with your books. The original Woman of Substance. I have & read them all and thank you for my signed photo. Reunited with your Bob. RIP 🙏 x

Irene Webb

England

Dear Barbara, So sad to hear of your passing. You brought so much joy and inspiration into my life. Much, much love, From Irene & family xxx

Chris Broens-Geurts

Netherlands

Love all her books, but especially the Emma Harte saga.

Glenn S. Todd

United States

Many years ago I happened to pick up the book A Woman of Substance written by Barbara Taylor Bradford. I read the inside book jacket and somehow the book seemed very interesting to me. I have since read all of her books in order as she wrote them. I was going to send her an email this week after reading her last novel. But then I received this email about her passing away. I will miss her writing

Shilpa Susan Kuriachan

India

An author whose writing was unique and tugged the heart strings... The book titled Remember is my favourite. Master of his fate is also a really good book. It's a huge loss.. RIP

Erin Edwards

New Zealand

1998, bored, I went into town and found a second hand book which I skipped to the middle to see if it was worth reading. Two pages later I bought the book, went home and read it cover to cover. Hence to say nothing got done all day. That book was my introduction to Barbara, and my inspiration to writing! Woman of substance impacted my life in a way that I'll never forget. Rest in peace Barbara.

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: