Jilly Cooper, Iconic British Romance Novelist, Dies at 88 After Fall

Jilly Cooper, the renowned author of the popular "Rutshire Chronicles" series, has passed away at the age of 88. Cooper, who was considered the "grande dame of English romance novels," died on Sunday after a fall, according to a statement from her publisher, Curtis Brown.

Prior to her success with the "Rutshire Chronicles," which explored the lives of the British upper class, Cooper had written several other books, including less explicit romance novels and various nonfiction works. Her first book, "How to Stay Married," was published in 1969, just seven years after she had gotten married.

Over the course of her prolific career, Cooper's novels have sold millions of copies, cementing her status as a trailblazer in the world of British romance fiction. Her passing marks the end of an era for fans of her beloved "Rutshire Chronicles" series, which have captivated readers for decades with their vivid depictions of high society and the complexities of human relationships.