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Barbara Taylor Bradford, the prolific British author known for her bestselling novel "A Woman of Substance," has died at the age of 91. Her death was confirmed on Monday by a spokesperson, noting she passed away at her New York City residence on Sunday.

Bradford's literary career took off with the publication of "A Woman of Substance" in 1979, a saga that would become a cornerstone of her writing legacy. Over the years, she maintained an impressive output, averaging nearly a book a year. Her works, published in 40 languages, sold over 90 million copies worldwide, securing her status as one of the wealthiest and most popular writers globally, with an estimated net worth exceeding $200 million. In recognition of her contributions to literature, Queen Elizabeth II awarded Bradford an OBE in 2007. Her global reach and impact were so significant that her likeness was featured on a postage stamp in 1999.

Bradford's novels often explored themes of women navigating and excelling in a male-dominated world, with titles like "Breaking the Rules" and "Act of Will." Her favorite book was "The Women In His Life," which drew inspiration from her husband's experiences escaping the Nazis. Bradford was married to German-born film producer Robert Bradford for 56 years until his death in 2019.

Born in Leeds, West Yorkshire, Bradford developed a love for storytelling early on. She left school at 16 to become a reporter for the Yorkshire Evening Post, eventually working as a fashion editor and writing a syndicated column about interior design in the U.S.

"A Woman of Substance" told the multi-generational tale of Emma Harte, a character based on many strong women Bradford admired. The novel sold over 30 million copies and was adapted into a 1984 television miniseries. Bradford often compared herself to her character, emphasizing their shared qualities of toughness and business acumen.

Barbara Taylor Bradford's life and career were marked by numerous interactions with celebrities and significant moments. She met Sean Connery before his iconic role as James Bond and gave him early, albeit unheeded, career advice. She also witnessed the transformation of Peter O'Toole from a lanky, disheveled journalist into the star of "Lawrence of Arabia," a moment she never forgot.

Renowned for her disciplined writing routine, Bradford would start her day at 6 a.m. with her IBM Lexmark typewriter and work through the day with a strict regimen. Her impressive 5,300 square-foot apartment in Manhattan, which she sold to Uma Thurman in 2013, was a testament to her success and included amenities such as an extensive art collection and the service of a Moroccan butler.

Jenny Seagrove, who played Emma Harte in the miniseries adaptation of "A Woman of Substance" and became friends with Bradford, described her as a "powerhouse of glamour and warmth" and a down-to-earth individual who never forgot her roots. "She never, ever forgot that she was just a girl from Yorkshire that worked hard and made good," Seagrove lovingly recalled.

Barbara Taylor Bradford's legacy endures through her novels and the indelible mark she left on the literary world.