Sad news as we bid farewell to beloved author Dame Jilly Cooper, who has passed away at the age of 88, leaving her family and fans in complete shock. With her first book published in 1969, Jilly captivated readers for decades with bestselling novels like The Rutshire Chronicles and its irresistible hero, Rupert Campbell-Black. Her work, often described as witty and insightful, tackled themes of class, sex, marriage, and more, all wrapped in humour and charm.
Jilly was not only a literary icon but a Dame Commander of the British Empire, honoured by King Charles in 2024. Her family remembers her as a “shining light,” whose love knew no bounds. They are immensely proud of her incredible achievements and will deeply miss her infectious smile and laughter.
Her agent, Felicity Blunt, paid tribute, saying, “Jilly defined culture, writing, and conversation. She wrote, as she said, to ‘add to the sum of human happiness’, and in doing so, she was unbeatable.”
Jilly had a unique talent for blending intricate plots with wickedly sharp observations, often drawing inspiration from her own life. Her books, affectionately tagged as ‘bonkbusters’, have stood the test of time, resonating with readers for over fifty years.
Jilly’s legacy goes beyond her words; she was a friend, ally, confidante, and mentor. Her absence will be felt deeply, yet she will live on through the joy her stories bring. Rest in peace, Jilly Cooper, a true legend of the literary world. 🌟