A Woman of Substance – a true classic and one of my all-time favourites. 

Without sounding too corny, I can honestly say that A Woman of Substance is one of the books that started my passion for championing women and girls, as well as my love of reading.

In my early teens, I discovered Barbara Taylor Bradford and went on to read all of her books, but A Woman of Substance has always stood out as my favourite.

I was completely fascinated by Emma Harte. Starting her life as a single mother in 1905, she goes on to become a hugely successful and wealthy businesswoman by 1968. Her journey is filled with challenges, setbacks, heartbreak and determination, but what really stayed with me was her resilience.

Emma is such a powerful character. She faces so many obstacles, yet refuses to let her circumstances define her. Watching her build her own life and business from such difficult beginnings was completely gripping.

I think this book probably influenced me more than I realised at the time. Reading about a woman who was ambitious, determined and willing to fight for her future made a real impression on me, and perhaps planted some of the seeds for the work I do today championing women and girls.

Every page pulled me in, and even after all these years, it remains a book I would happily recommend.

A true classic, an unforgettable heroine and one of my all-time favourite books.

If you love strong female characters, ambition, resilience and a story that completely draws you in, A Woman of Substance is an absolute must-read.