Celebrating the life of Barbara Taylor Bradford

Francine Lebreton

Canada

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

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.

Diane S Helfgott

United States

Barbara was my favorite author, and I still have the original books from the Woman of Substance series. I met Barbara at two books signings, and at one she signed each of the books for me. She was a special lady and made me feel like a friend.

Lesley Kane

Scotland

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

Diane Hock

United States

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

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.

Lorraine Greenfield

England

So sad to hear of the passing of Barbara, I met her at Harewood house it was so lovely to talk to her , I loved her books and being from Leeds myself and a proud Yorkshire lass I know of the areas she wrote about, I wrote to her later to thank her for such a lovely day, she sent to my surprise a lovely letter and a signed photo which hangs proudly in my living room. RIP Barbara reunited with Bob

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

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.

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.

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. 💕

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.

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.

Weronika Umińska

Poland

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

Rubén Millán

Mexico

Querida Bárbara, Recién me enteré de tu partida y mi corazón se partió; tres semanas en París, fue la primer novela que leí en la vida por voluntad propia, a los 14 años, soñé tener amigos fuertes aún pese a las crisis de la vida y conocer París. Hoy que he avanzado en los años me siento realizado tengo amigos sólidos, fuertes y también conocí París. Gracias por eso. Por siempre Bárbara. 🌹

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.

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

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!

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.

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.

Charles Jones

United States

Barbara, or as I reverently called her, BTB, was a regal presence throughout my earliest memories. Her vivid stories, particularly those I strained to hear lurking just shy of earshot, evoked a grand world that – wonderfully – I in-time enjoyed by her side. She could have given no greater gift. Miss you always!

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!

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.

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

Edna Elaine Pearson

United States

Oh, Barbara Taylor Bradford, if you only knew how you encouraged me back in the late 70's when I was given a paperback copy (that I still have) of A Woman of Substance as a Christmas gift! I was a struggling, single mom with two kids that through counseling, our family was chosen to be recipients of Pontiac Central High School Band, Pontiac, Michigan, who provided Christmas for us.

Beverley Ann Hopper

England

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

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.

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.

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.

Amy Ayotte

United States

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

Lynne Drew

England

Barbara was unforgettable from the first moment I met her in London, when she greeted her new editor with a warm smile – glamorous, charismatic, successful but above all a Yorkshire girl. We worked together for over twenty years, talking plot ideas and characters non-stop, book after book, loving every moment. I will miss her terribly.

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

Vicky Murdoch

Canada

The first book I read of Barbara Taylor Bradford was A Woman of Substance. I loved that book so much I re read it. Then I bought the rest of the series. Just wonderful and I enjoyed them so much. I still have all of that series which I will keep because I want to read them again. I watched the movies that were made in that series and love those also. Mrs Bradford will be genuinely missed.

Kim Scott

England

BTB was the most wonderful gifted author that ever lived. Truly going to miss her books that you couldn't wait for the release date. Absolute legend.

Michael John Weight

England

Stunning stories, having watched them all many times over. Never tire of them. Never to be repeated by anyone. God bless her for many happy hours of real entertainment.

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

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!

Stuart Proffitt

England

I was so sad to read the news. I last saw her in the NY apartment sometime before Bob's death. I had been the editor in chief of HC UK with responsibility for adult fiction and non-fiction, and we somehow got on to talking about Napoleon. I discovered he was as much an obsession of hers as of mine, which was pretty unexpected! Condolences to you all.

Ingrid Maria Bourne

England

With very fond memories- Maria xxxxx

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.

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.

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 ❤️

Debra Julius

United States

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

Vanessa Rosar

Germany

Sincere condolences to Barbara's family. I was so sad to hear the news. Barbara's books have accompanied me during my life and I loved them all, in particular, the Emma Harte ones which I re-read from time to time. I am currently waiting for her last book to be delivered and am very sad to know that it is really the last one. May Barbara rest in peace and carry on writing in book heaven. xx

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.

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.

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 .

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.

Cathy Swanton

Canada

So Shocked such sad news adored Barbara. My late mom and I shared love of her books. I have them all. She will be with her Bob Pups and my late mom. May she rest in peace. I so adore the hours she gave me in her writing. Rest in Peace dearest Barbara.

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.

Mary Long

United States

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

Sharon Hoge

United States

Truly a woman of creativity and class

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

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.

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. 🤍🕊

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 ❤️

Roisin Shivers

Ireland

We had the privilege of meeting Barbara & Bob on a birthday cruise. We were all invited by Mrs Anne Cowley. She and Anne were good friends. Barbara had time for everyone and took the time to do a private book signing and we all got to chat and take some photographs. Very accommodating and genuinely very nice, friendly and so interesting. May she rest in peace with her husband 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.

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."

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

Allison Pinto

United States

I am very sorry to hear about Mrs Bradford's passing. I was just thinking about her as I am currently reading "A Man of Honor". Fitting, since watching "A Woman of Substance" introduced me to her fiction books. I have and read them all except for the last one (waiting for the paperback version). I will miss her stories and characters. Thank you Mrs Bradford and RIP.

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🥰

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.

Ellen Dean

England

A truly inspirational woman. RIP 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.

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.

Jillian Rideout

Canada

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

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.

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

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.

May Feiteira

United States

Am deeply saddened to hear of Mrs Bradford’s passing, my favorite author, she took me to so many places in her books, and I read them over and over. My deepest sympathies to her family and loved ones.

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.

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.

AL french artist

France

Rest in peace dear Madam. You were great. Huge talent. An example of woman to folllow. You are inspiration forever. Warm greetings from France to the family and friends, all the ones who love you in this sad death event.

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.

Reza Ahmed

England

RIP Legend

Natalie Andrews

Canada

As I read Woman of Substance I was Emma Harte. That's what all her books did for me. They made me feel I was the main character. She has been my favourite author forever. RIP condolences to all her family and friends

Susan Malarky

Scotland

Loved every one of her books.

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.

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.

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 ❤️

Chris Broens-Geurts

Netherlands

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

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

Chancellor Jones

United States

When Barbara walked into our home as I was growing up, I always felt the presence of a great star because she was always bigger than life in my eyes. Her taste level in all things, especially the culinary arts impressed me greatly. Perhaps that’s why I chose the profession. Thanks for the inspiration.

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.

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

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.

Aine Cryts

United States

May you rest in sweet peace. Thanks for bringing your writing and many smiles to this world 🙂

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

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.

Elizabeth Lynn L Kurszewski

United States

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

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.

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.

Moses Oginni-Momodu

Nigeria

Barbara made the world so colourful with her sound mind and magic pen. She reminded me of Toni Morrison and Agatha Christie. She'll continue to live in the minds of those who read her books.

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

0 / 400
If you wish to keep up-to-date on further relevant news about Barbara Taylor Bradford and her books, please tick this box to sign up to our newsletter

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