British writer Jilly Cooper, author of 'Riders' and 'Rivals', dies aged 88

British author Jilly Cooper, best known for many bestselling raunchy novels including 'Rivals' and 'Riders', has died aged 88.

In a statement, her family said that "Her love for all of her family and friends knew no bounds, and her unexpected death has come as a complete shock.”

She is reported to have died on Sunday morning after suffering a fall.

Cooper's agent, Felicity Blunt added: "The privilege of my career has been working with a woman who has defined culture, writing and conversation since she was first published over fifty years ago.”

“Jilly will undoubtedly be best remembered for her chart-topping series The Rutshire Chronicles and its havoc-making and handsome show-jumping hero Rupert Campbell-Black.”

The first book, 'Riders', in the series was published in 1985, and 'Tackle' the most recent in 2023.

"Bonkbusters"

As Cooper rose to fame the British tabloid press dubbing her the 'queen of the bonkbusters' as her books were widely seen as containing 'steamy and erotic fantasy content'. A favourite with the British royal family, she was appointed a CBE (Commander of the British Empire) in 2018 for services to literature and charity.

Her many fans included former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who said the books offered “escapism.”

Cooper's work enjoyed a revival last year after her 1988 novel Rivals was adapted as a comedy-drama series by Disney+.

Season two of show is currently under production ahead of its release next year.