Celebrating the life of Barbara Taylor Bradford

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.

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.

Anonymous

Australia

Barbara’s novels have been a source of inspiration, comfort, and joy for me. Her unforgettable characters, especially Emma Harte, taught me the power of dreaming big. May she Rest in Peace.

Lorraine Evans

England

So sad to hear of the loss of this wonderful lady - I have the complete colletion of every book she wrote and will treasure them

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!

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.

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.

Ingrid Maria Bourne

England

With very fond memories- Maria xxxxx

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!

Francine Lebreton

Canada

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

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

Elizabeth Lynn L Kurszewski

United States

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

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.

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.

Kathy Williams

England

Such sad news, loved all her books and read them. many times over. A true lady may she rest in peace xx

Chris Broens-Geurts

Netherlands

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

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.

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.

Janet Bainbridge

England

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

Ann Webster Jesus

United States

May you rest in eternal peace. I have loved all your books. You will be missed. But you have been reunited with your beloved Robert. Thoughts and prayers for your family.

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! ❤️🙏

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

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.

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.

Angela Sidney

Canada

Thank you for the tears, the joy and the endless smile. Your words and your books are treasures Thank you, thank you, thank you. Rest now in eternal 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.

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.

Sharon Gregory-Wareing

United States

OMG Absolutely devastated with the news of Barbara passing away she's been a big part of my life since I was 15 when A Woman of Substance came on tv. I've got all her books and even a signed photo she sent me.

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

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.

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. 🌹

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

Shelley Bland

England

May I send my sincere condolences to Barbara’s family and friends following her passing on Sunday. From one Yorkshire woman to another. I’ve lost count of the number of times I sought Emma Harte out when I needed a sharp reminder that as women we can achieve our dreams and be resilient in the times when we are tested. Thank you Barbara for Emma xxx

Heather Ritch

United States

My mother in law from London told me to read these books years ago and I loved them, ending up reading them all! She was a great author!

Lisa Warland

England

I have loved reading your stories. Thank you x

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.

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.

Janet Hawksworth

England

Such sad news of a fabulous author. Loved watching her books come to life in screen. RIP Barbara xx

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

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!

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

Sally Foley

Canada

Sending my condolences--Barbara was indeed a wonderful lady who has entertained many many readers over the years--I have enjoyed every book she has written. She will be missed

Lee Fraser

New Zealand

RIP Barbara. The first book I read was A Woman of Substance many years ago. Have loved your books ever since. You were one of my favorite authors. 🕯

Lesley Kane

Scotland

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

Jenny McArthur

Australia

Rest in peace our beautiful Barbara.🥰

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.

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. 💕

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.

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!!

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.

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.

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 .

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.

Oscar Dunning

England

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

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 🩷🩷

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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

Sarah Beresford

England

So sad to hear of Barbara's passing. She was my favourite author from about the age of 13 and have collected all of her books over the years. She will be missed so much. Sending my sincerest condolences to her family and friends.

Rosetta Dean

United States

Wonderful author

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!!

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.

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.

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.

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.

Kim Scott

England

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

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

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!!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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

Mary Long

United States

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

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.

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”!

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.

Cava Hatty

United States

I am so sad to hear this. She was my favorite author. I have read all her books but A man of Honour. Which I am reading right now. I can’t believe this will be my last book of hers. Thank you Barbara for sharing all your wonderful stories. Especially Emma. Rest in peace beautiful lady!!! 💔💔✝️🙏 I so wanted to meet you. ❤️❤️❤️

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.

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.

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.

Olive Ndungutse

Kenya

A truly remarkable Woman of Substance. Rest In Peace Dearest 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.

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

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.

Ruth Krems

United States

Rest in peace Mrs Bradford. You will be missed by many. I have been a fan of your books since A Woman of Substance came out and I have all your books. My dream was to one day meet you and that dream came true after many years. Although you will be missed I am happy you are reunited with your dear husband.

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."

Sally Hiller

England

Remember seeing you for afternoon tea and book launch, at the Dorchester, Park Lane. One of your favourite places to stay in London. What a lady and great author! God bless rest in peace with your dear husband xx You'll be missed in Manhattan too. XXX

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.

Åsa Hellberg

Sweden

Thank you! Rest in peace.

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.

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🥰

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

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!

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: