Barbara Taylor Bradford, a beloved figure in literature, passed away at 91, leaving an indelible mark with over 90 million books sold.
- Hailing from Leeds, Bradford began her storied career as a typist, soon becoming the first women’s editor at the Yorkshire Evening Post.
- Her debut novel, “A Woman of Substance,” remains iconic, illustrating a servant’s rise to power and selling 30 million copies alone.
- Mourning her loss, the literary community honours her as a true ‘woman of substance’ and a symbol of ambition and glamour.
- Bradford’s life, marked by a 55-year marriage, ended peacefully in New York, with burial alongside her husband.
Barbara Taylor Bradford, an eminent novelist born in Leeds, captured the hearts of millions with her compelling storytelling. Known as “the grand dame of blockbusters,” she authored 40 novels, amassing sales exceeding 90 million copies worldwide. Her journey began humbly at the Yorkshire Evening Post, where she started as a typist before advancing to become the paper’s first female editor. This formative experience laid the foundation for her prolific writing career.
Bradford’s inaugural novel, “A Woman of Substance,” achieved remarkable success, narrating the story of Emma Harte’s ascent from a humble servant in rural Yorkshire to the helm of a vast business empire. This debut alone sold around 30 million copies, establishing Bradford as a formidable force in literature. Her works often focused on ordinary women achieving extraordinary feats, a reflection of her own remarkable life.
Her literary career began in Leeds, but in the 1960s, she relocated to New York following her marriage to Robert Bradford, an American film producer. Their union lasted 55 years until his passing in 2019. Her death on a Sunday in New York was peaceful, surrounded by loved ones, according to a family spokeswoman.
The literary and creative sectors of Yorkshire and beyond have publicly expressed their sorrow and admiration for Bradford. Tributes on social media highlight her influence, with readers and colleagues alike recognising her contributions. A tweet from Andrew Wilson expressed: “RIP Barbara Taylor Bradford, the original woman of substance. She taught me the importance of dreaming big.” Such sentiments resonate across many who appreciated her impact.
Following her death, she will be laid to rest in New York’s Westchester Hills Cemetery, alongside her husband. Her passing marks the end of an era for a writer whose works will continue to inspire future generations. Her literature not only entertained but also empowered, teaching timeless lessons on resilience and ambition.
Barbara Taylor Bradford’s legacy as a pioneering author and inspiration to many will endure through her timeless works.
