Celebrating the life of Barbara Taylor Bradford

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.

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.

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. 🕯

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!

Devin Ross

United States

We have lost one of the greats. Barbara's stories will always hold a special place in my heart. She will be greatly missed and will be in the hearts of everyone who loved her and read one or all of her novels. Losing this great of an author is a hard hit to the literary world. Rest in great paradise, BTB. You will be missed but your stories will live on forever and ever!

Lyn Blanchard

England

RIP will so miss reading and waiting for your books to come out

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.

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. 🤍🕊

Janet Hawksworth

England

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

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.

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

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.

Ingrid Maria Bourne

England

With very fond memories- Maria xxxxx

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.

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!!

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 🩷🩷

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”!

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

Sally

England

Such a lovely lady, an author the likes of which will never be seen again R I P

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

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.

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.

Oscar Dunning

England

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

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

Elaine Allen

United States

I am been a fan of Barbara’s longer than I can remember! I think my first book of hers that I read was A Woman of Substance! After that, she became my favorite author! I think I own most of her books i just found out of her passing and I feel as though I have lost a member on my family! I am so sad to hear this! I spend any enjoyable hours reading her books! R.I.P. 😭😭

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.

Natacha Marcelin

Haiti

Merci beaucoup d’avoir enrichi ma soif de lecture pendant toutes ces années. Vos livres m’ont entrainé dans tant de voyages inimaginables 🙏. Repose en paix.

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.

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.

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.

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!

Reza Ahmed

England

RIP Legend

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

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

Mary Maxwell

United States

Could not wait for the next book. You felt like you were sitting in the room as she described it. I read A Woman of Substance many times. I will miss your story telling. Rest in peace.

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.

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.

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!!

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.

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.

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.

Åsa Hellberg

Sweden

Thank you! Rest in peace.

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

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!

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

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.

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.

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🥰

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 .

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!!

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.

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.

Monique Hofman-Ruigrok

United States

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Barbara Taylor Bradford. I have read all her amazing books, she was one of my favorite authors. May she Rest In Peace.

Diane Longmore

England

RIP Barbara, you have been part of my life since I was a teenager I am now 50. Growing up in Leeds, your books brought Leeds alive. I worked at the Yorkshire Post in my early twenties. I've worked across Leeds and through your books I see Armley etc through your eyes. I have every book you have wrote I have dvd's of the books that made it to screen you will live on through these. Sending love

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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

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! ❤️🙏

Sharon Hoge

United States

Truly a woman of creativity and class

Francine Lebreton

Canada

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

Susan Malarky

Scotland

Loved every one of her books.

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

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.

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.

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.

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 ❤️

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. 💕

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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!

Christine Watson

England

RIP it have read all your books and you are now safe with Bob and I am glad you achieved all your dreams you deserve to for all those you inspired a true inspiration.

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.

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.

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.

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. ❤️❤️❤️

Weronika Umińska

Poland

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Elizabeth Lynn L Kurszewski

United States

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

Jillian Rideout

Canada

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

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 ❤️

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.

Karen Hermansen

United States

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

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.

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.

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.

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!

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: