At an age when many might consider their romantic days behind them, bestselling author Jilly Cooper is proving that Cupid's arrow can strike at any time. The 87-year-old queen of the bonkbuster has found an unexpected leading man in her own life story - country gentleman Christopher Stevens.
The Unlikely Romance Blossoming in the Cotswolds
Cooper, whose novels have sold millions with their tales of passionate affairs and country house scandals, is experiencing her own real-life romance that could rival any of her fictional plots. The author of Riders and Rivals has been quietly seeing Stevens, a man who embodies the very English country values she so famously celebrates in her work.
'He's my absolute rock,' Cooper reveals with characteristic warmth. 'We have the most wonderful time together, and he's been such a support through everything.'
A Gentleman in the Saddle
Stevens appears to be the perfect match for Cooper's spirited personality. Described as a 'proper country man' who's equally comfortable in the saddle as he is at a literary dinner, he represents the archetypal English gentleman that often features in Cooper's novels.
The couple's relationship has blossomed away from the public eye, with Stevens providing steadfast support during Cooper's recent health challenges. Friends report seeing them enjoying quiet dinners and country walks around Cooper's Gloucestershire home, painting a picture of contented companionship.
Love After Loss
This new chapter comes after Cooper endured the heartbreaking loss of her husband, Leo Cooper, in 2013 after 45 years of marriage. The author had spoken openly about the profound grief she experienced, making this new connection all the more poignant.
'It's rather wonderful to discover that the heart can open again when you least expect it,' Cooper confides. 'Christopher has brought such joy and laughter back into my life.'
The Literary World Reacts
Friends and colleagues in the publishing world have expressed delight at Cooper's happiness. 'Jilly has always celebrated love and passion in all its forms through her writing,' notes one longtime friend. 'To see her experiencing that joy herself at this stage of life is utterly heartwarming.'
The romance serves as a real-life testament to Cooper's lifelong belief in the transformative power of love - a theme that has made her one of Britain's most beloved authors for decades.
As Cooper continues to write and charm readers with her unmistakable wit and warmth, she does so with a new spring in her step and a country gentleman by her side - proving that some of the best love stories aren't just found between the pages of a book.
