Great literature is filled with imaginary harbours for lonely souls. Some of us seek refuge in Middleearth, some head to Hogwarts, some take themselves to Pemberley. Since I was about 13 years old, I’ve been returning to Rutshire on the regular, seeking sex, drugs and broadcasting scandals. Rivals by Jilly Cooper isn’t just a book to me, it’s home. I’m very excited that Disney + is taking on my favourite novel.
Even if you’re not on intimate terms with Jilly Cooper’s novels, you could recognise them, and sketch an outline from memory. There will definitely be sex. And there will probably be a horse or two. The boozing will be lavish, the hyperbole more so. If you’re new to Cooper’s world, this is what I’d like to tell you:
Firstly,…
