Rutshire Chronicles Books in Order (Complete List Updated 2024)

The Rutshire Chronicles is a captivating series of romantic novels written by Jilly Cooper. Set in the fictional county of Rutshire, these books explore the lives, loves, and rivalries of the upper class, often revolving around the glamorous world of equestrian sports. The series consists of eleven novels, each featuring a mix of humor, drama, and steamy romance.

Here is your complete list of Rutshire Chronicles Books in Order.

Riders (1986)

The series begins with Riders, introducing readers to Jake Lovell and Rupert Campbell-Black. Jake is a talented horseman from humble beginnings, while Rupert is a wealthy show jumper known for his charm and recklessness. Their intense rivalry unfolds against the backdrop of the equestrian world, culminating in dramatic events at the Los Angeles Olympics. This novel sets the tone for the series with its blend of passion and ambition.

Rivals (1988)

Rivals follows the aftermath of Riders and dives deeper into the world of Corinium Television. The story revolves around Declan O’Hara, a charismatic television star, and his complicated family dynamics. As ambitions clash and scandals emerge, readers witness the intricate relationships that define Rutshire’s elite. This book is particularly notable for its engaging characters and witty dialogue.

Polo (1991)

In Polo, Jilly Cooper introduces new characters while continuing to explore familiar faces from previous books. The narrative centers on the high-stakes world of polo, showcasing both the sport’s glamour and its underlying tensions. The romantic entanglements are as thrilling as ever, making this installment a favorite among fans.

The Man Who Made Husbands Jealous (1993)

This novel features Lysander Hawkley, a handsome and charming man who becomes embroiled in various romantic escapades. As his relationships unfold, so do themes of jealousy and rivalry among Rutshire’s elite. Cooper’s skillful storytelling shines in this book as she weaves together multiple plot lines filled with intrigue and humor.

Appassionata (1996)

Appassionata focuses on the world of classical music alongside equestrian themes. The story follows a talented musician navigating her career while dealing with romantic challenges. This book highlights Cooper’s ability to blend different artistic worlds while maintaining her signature style of engaging storytelling.

Score! (1999)

In Score!, readers are taken into the competitive realm of sports management and horse racing. The narrative explores themes of ambition and betrayal as characters vie for success both on and off the field. With its fast-paced plot and vibrant characters, this installment keeps readers on their toes.

Pandora (2002)

Pandora introduces new characters while revisiting familiar ones from earlier books. The story revolves around love triangles and complex relationships set against a backdrop of wealth and privilege. Cooper’s trademark humor shines through as she navigates the ups and downs of her characters’ lives.

Wicked! (2006)

In Wicked!, Jilly Cooper delves into themes of scandal and redemption within Rutshire’s elite circles. The narrative follows a group of friends as they confront their pasts and navigate new romances. This book combines humor with heartfelt moments, making it a standout in the series.

Jump! (2010)

Jump! returns to the equestrian world, focusing on show jumping competitions and personal rivalries among competitors. The stakes are high as characters face challenges both in their careers and personal lives. Cooper’s ability to create tension keeps readers engaged throughout this exciting installment.

Mount! (2016)

In Mount!, Rupert Campbell-Black returns as a central character, bringing his charm back to Rutshire’s social scene. This novel explores themes of love, loyalty, and betrayal against the backdrop of competitive riding events. Cooper’s storytelling continues to captivate readers with its blend of romance and drama.

Tackle! (2023)

The most recent addition to the Rutshire Chronicles is Tackle! This novel introduces new characters while revisiting beloved ones from previous books. As always, it features romance intertwined with humor and drama, ensuring that long-time fans will find much to enjoy.

KeyTakeaways: The Rutshire Chronicles Series in Order

The Rutshire Chronicles series by Jilly Cooper offers readers an engaging mix of romance, drama, and humor set in an extravagant world filled with memorable characters. Each book can be read as a standalone story while contributing to an overarching narrative that connects them all through shared characters and themes.

For those looking to dive into this captivating series, reading them in order enhances the experience by allowing readers to follow character development more closely across multiple novels.

Whether you are drawn in by the romance or the intrigue of high society life, Jilly Cooper’s Rutshire Chronicles promise an entertaining escape into a world where love knows no bounds and drama is always just around the corner.

Whether you are a fan of historical fiction or enjoy character-driven stories with deep emotional resonance, the Rutshire Chronicles will captivate you from beginning to end.

To enjoy the full impact of the book series, make sure to read the books in the following order:

Riders (1986)
Rivals (1988)
Polo (1991)
The Man Who Made Husbands Jealous (1993)
Appassionata (1996)
Score! (1999)
Pandora (2002)
Wicked! (2006)
Jump! (2010)
Mount! (2016)
Tackle! (2023)

With its unforgettable characters and gripping plots, the Rutshire Chronicles remains a must-read series for anyone who loves historical drama and family sagas.