In a wonderfully British moment that could have been lifted straight from one of her own novels, celebrated author Jilly Cooper has confessed to a delightful royal address mix-up that's left literary circles amused.
A Case of Mistaken Royal Identity
The 86-year-old literary icon, known for her witty romps through English society, intended to send a copy of her latest novel 'Rivals' to King Charles III at Clarence House. However, in a charming twist of confusion, she accidentally dispatched the book to Buckingham Palace instead.
Cooper revealed the mix-up during a recent interview, explaining that she wanted the King to have a copy of her new work. "I sent it to the wrong place," she admitted with characteristic good humour. "I sent it to Buckingham Palace, and I should have sent it to Clarence House."
Royal Connections and Literary Tributes
The author's connection to the royal family adds an extra layer of significance to the gesture. Cooper has previously mentioned that the King, when he was Prince of Wales, once told her he was a fan of her work. This personal appreciation made the book delivery particularly meaningful, even if it ended up at the wrong address.
'Rivals' marks Cooper's return to fiction after nearly a decade-long hiatus. The novel continues her popular Rutshire Chronicles series, which began with the famous 'Riders' in 1985. Set in the cutthroat world of television, the book promises the same blend of scandal, romance, and social commentary that has made Cooper a household name.
A Career Spanning Decades
With a career that has entertained millions of readers worldwide, Cooper's accidental royal redirect has only endeared her further to her loyal fanbase. The author, who began her writing career as a journalist, has sold millions of books and become an institution in British popular fiction.
The mix-up serves as a reminder that even the most established figures can make simple mistakes, and that royal protocol can sometimes prove confusing, even for those familiar with the upper echelons of British society.
While we may never know if the misdirected copy made its way to the intended recipient, the story has already provided the kind of charming anecdote that Cooper herself might have written for one of her colourful characters.
