Big bad bitch energy

Got bored.

I remember many moons ago (I won't tell you just how MANY moons ago...) seeing my mama reading books at night. When asked what she was reading, she would say "a Barbara Taylor Bradford" novel. From that moment on, I knew I would love BTB because my beloved mama loved her. And, I was right. When I pick up a Bradford novel, I am instantly taken to the heart of what she's writing, wrapped up in the most amazing of plot lines and taken on a whirl wind ride. 

This family saga is one that I fell in love with wholly. From the first page, to the last, from the plot line to the amazing cast of characters in this novel. Being taken on a journey along side Emma was breathtaking. I felt all her feelings as if they were my own. Reading about her time as young Emma, all the way up to her time as a mother, I felt every powerful bit of this novel. 

If you want a quick read, you won't get it with this one. But, if you want one that will keep calling to you, keep you coming back for more, turning page after page, then this is absolutely the one you need. Reading this novel, really made me feel as if my mama was sitting next to me, telling me what she loved about Bradford's novels. I definitely recommend this magnificently seasoned author's novel to all who want a masterfully written romance novel. I'm so glad to have read this one again! 

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Publisher and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*This review was originally posted on Cover To Cover Cafe

After being told I was named after this character all my life I finally decided to read it and I was not disappointed. While at times it was hard to get through yet another death or betrayal, I found myself so fixated in this character who endured it all. this will be a book which will stay with me for a long time

A Woman of Substance by Barbara Taylor Bradford is a 2014 RosettaBooks publication. (originally published in 1979)

A Classic saga that stands the test of time-

This is the story of Emma Harte, a poverty ridden young woman employed by a wealthy family, who eventually works her way to the top of a rich and powerful business empire. Her personal disappointments, hardships, loves and losses all play a role in solidifying Emma’s fortitude, as her instincts for human nature develops, helping her to become a wizened, formidable businesswoman.

The story begins in the twilight of Emma’s life as she sits on top of the world basking in the daily operations of her empire and all the accoutrements of her vast wealth. But, when she is informed that forces are working to overthrow her, taking her decision -making authority away- she sets a plan in action…

But, as she schemes to preempt a coup de grace, the reader is transported back in time to Emma’s humble beginnings, following her through the years as she builds her business, makes friends and enemies, makes fateful decisions, falls passionately in love, all while plotting her revenge against the powerful family that betrayed her.

In 1979, this book was of zero interest to me, but I think I vaguely remember hearing some buzz about it. I think it was one of those books everyone was reading and talking about, especially those a few years older than me. But, I was in my mid-teens when the book was published, and I just didn’t find many long family sagas of interest. It wasn’t until a few years later, after I graduated from high school that I began to read anything besides horror or mystery novels. Still, I don’t recall reading anything by this author. (although there were some passages in this book that seemed vaguely familiar) I did, however, read plenty of Judith Krantz, Barbara Delinsky, Danielle Steel, and Jackie Collins- to name a few. But, over the years, the historical sagas- the ones that continued over several subsequent installments became a huge favorite of mine- but still I didn’t put this book in that category, for some reason.

There was even a movie based on this book, which was also well- received, but I have no memory of watching that either. My taste and interest changed many times over the years, and on many occasions I felt a pang of regret for missing out on so many great books in my teenage and young adult years- this book being one of them. Many times, I have thought to read this book, but, with a
such a huge TBR pile and review deadlines, the length of the book deterred me. However, when I realized the book was in digital format- and in the Kindle Unlimited program I decided to finally take the plunge.

Now I am asking myself why on earth it took my so long to read this book! I loved it!! This story once again reminds me of how much I miss those epic sagas!! Emma’s life story was an amazing journey, and she is an inspiration and model of true grit and determination. There’s nothing better than a ‘rags to riches’ story, especially when it features a smart woman willing to do what it takes to become successful. Emma got a few lucky breaks, but mainly she was smart, thought ahead, and worked hard. Her drive may have stemmed from unhealthy emotions at times, but who could blame her? It just made her success that much sweeter!!

There are several more additions to this long running saga and I can not wait to read them!! I see now why this book was so popular and remained so for decades, and why so many people still say it is one of their favorite books of all time.

In the meantime, I hope the family saga makes a comeback in one form or another. They really are awesome!

5 stars

There's a good story in here somewhere, a story built on feminism and ambition, and some drama in there too for good measure, it's just buried under hundreds and thousands of unnecessary words. This book is some 800 pages long.. never a bad thing of course but it really could have done with some cutting down. The writing style is very romance novel style, reading it felt like an American soap opera.

I got to page 415 (out of 830) at which point I declared NO MORE! I tried, I really did, but I am just going to cheat and read Wikipedia for the remaining storyline so that I am informed enough for book club!

I read this book in the 80's. Stil consider it one of my all time favorites