Farewell To A Literary Legend: Jilly Cooper Passes At 88

A Literary Star Gone Too Soon

British author Jilly Cooper, the queen of racy romance, has died at the age of 88. Known for her audacious and wildly entertaining novels, Cooper's passing was confirmed by her agent and family on Monday. Her unexpected death followed a fall on Sunday, as reported by UK media.

Remembering a Friend and Mentor

"I have lost a friend, an ally, a confidante, and a mentor," expressed Cooper's publicist, Felicity Blunt. "But I know she will live forever in the words she put on the page and on the screen." Her poignant words capture the sentiment of many who admired Cooper's work and spirit.

A Legacy of Laughter and Love

Cooper's children, Felix and Emily, shared their grief in a heartfelt statement, describing their mother's unexpected death as a complete shock. "We are so proud of everything she achieved in her life and can't begin to imagine life without her infectious smile and laughter all around us," they said.

The Literary World She Leaves Behind

Born Jill Sallitt on February 21, 1937, Cooper's novels are synonymous with sex, snobbery, and fun. With best-sellers like "Tackle!", "Mount!", and "Score!", her books have sold an impressive 11 million copies in the UK alone. Her work, often labeled as 'bonkbusters', has stood the test of time with their insightful takes on class, sex, and relationships.

From Pages to Screen

Cooper's influence extended beyond books, with a 2024 adaptation of "Rivals" airing on Disney+. The series introduced Rupert Campbell-Black, a character partly inspired by Queen Camilla's former husband, to a new generation.

Felicity Blunt noted that Cooper wrote with "acuity and insight about all things – class, sex, marriage, rivalry, grief, and fertility." Her stories, filled with both humor and depth, will continue to captivate readers for years to come.