Best-selling author, known for ‘70s classic, dead at 91

Beloved British writer Barbara Taylor Bradford, known best for publishing the “A Woman of Substance” saga, has died at age 91.
The famed journalist and novelist died Sunday at her home in New York City after a battling a short illness, Harper Collins Publishers announced Monday.
“With the deepest and heartfelt sadness, it is confirmed that international bestselling author Barbara Taylor Bradford OBE has died,” the post read. “Barbara, 91, died peacefully at her home yesterday (24 November 2024) following a short illness, and was surrounded by loved ones to the very end.”
Bradford’s bestselling debut novel, “A Woman of Substance,” was published in 1979 and stayed on The New York Times’ list for 43 weeks. The book sold more than 30 million copies and spawned a 1984 television miniseries starring Jenny Seagrove and Deborah Kerr as protagonist Emma Harte.
The outstanding writer released 40 books during her 40-plus year career with her most recent novel, “The Wonder of It All,” releasing in late 2023. Some of her most popular work includes “Ravenscar,” “Cavendon,” “The Women in His Life,” “Love in Another Town,” and the “House of Falconer” series.
Bradford’s books often explored a theme of young women overcoming tough circumstances through hard work and sacrifice. The prolific writer is heralded as a pioneer of women’s perseverance novels.
Her books were published in 40 languages and sold over 90 million copies worldwide. She had an estimated net worth of $200 million.
Bradford received an OBE (The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) from Queen Elizabeth II in 2007.
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