How to read Jilly Cooper’s Rutshire Chronicles books in order

As a seasoned cinephile with a penchant for British television and a soft spot for romance novels, I must say that the new Disney Plus series “Rivals” has piqued my interest. Having lived through the ’80s and read my fair share of Jilly Cooper’s works, I can attest to the charm and escapism her stories offer.

Currently available for streaming on Disney Plus, “Rivals” promises a delightful mix of humor and decadence to spice up countless viewing lists. This series invites you on an exhilarating journey into the realm of independent television and the lavish lifestyle of Rutshire’s high society.

The storyline for “Rivals” unfurls in a made-up area known as the Cotswolds, mirroring the plot of Jilly Cooper’s book bearing the same title that hit shelves in 1988.

The English writer has written numerous romance books throughout the years, yet she is arguably best recognized for composing the Rutshire Chronicles series.

The sequel to the series, titled “Rivals,” is now being adapted for television as well. This adaptation will no doubt attract a fresh wave of fans to appreciate her initial work.

For those wondering, the recently launched Disney Plus show is an adaptation from the second book in an 11-volume series. If you’re curious about exploring more stories within this collection, you might be wondering where to begin your journey.

Well, luckily, we’ve mapped out how to get stuck into the novels below, so read on to find out.

Is Disney Plus’s Rivals based on a book?

How to read Jilly Cooper’s Rutshire Chronicles books in order

Yes! The new eight-part Disney Plus series is based on the book of the same name by Jilly Cooper.

First published in 1988, “Rivals” is the second installment of James Cooper’s Rutshire Chronicles series, following his debut novel “Riders,” which was published in 1986.

Stepping into the captivating realm of Rutshire, I found myself immersed in the opulent world of its aristocratic families, a journey that unfolds the intricacies of their love stories. These novels transport you to a world of grandeur and passion, making every turn of the page an exciting exploration.

Beyond delving into polo arenas and undeniably, a fair share of romantic entanglements, the book series maintains a connection through a host of recurring characters. One such character is Rupert Campbell-Black, portrayed by Alex Hassell in the Disney Plus adaptation.

Cooper expressed that among all books in her series, “Rivals” stands out as her personal favorite. The reason behind this preference, she explains, is her deep affection for the characters within the story.

Even the cruelest characters exhibit soft, tender, and vulnerable moments, while the timid and gentle ones bravely display courage and moral uprightness as genuine love unfolds.

Initially, I considered excluding Rupert Campbell-Black, my notorious and mischievous protagonist who was a successful showjumper and the most handsome man in England, due to his cruel behavior towards women and horses in ‘Riders’. However, I found myself yearning for his charisma and wit, so I reintroduced him as a key character in ‘Rivals’ and relished the process of making him endearing and genuinely heroic.

The Rutshire Chronicles novels can be read individually, even though they follow a chronological sequence.