Writing for over 45 years, Yarbro has worked in a wide variety of genres, from science fiction to westerns, from young adult adventure to historical horror.

[2] In 2009 the Horror Writers' Association presented Yarbro with the Bram Stoker Lifetime Achievement Award.

[4] Additionally, two of her novels, The Palace (1979) and Ariosto (1980) were nominated for the World Fantasy Award, neither winning.

[6] Aside from writing, she has worked as a cartographer, has read tarot cards and palms, and has composed music, all of which she continues to do.

[7] She played a major role in popularizing The Eye of Argon, a novella that became part of widespread science fiction convention reading game.