Riders by Jilly Cooper is a quintessential example of the 1980s bonkbuster genre—bold, brash, and unashamedly indulgent
| Title | Riders |
| Writer | Jilly Cooper DBE |
| Series | Rutshire Chronicles #1 |
| Publisher | Corgi |
| Publication date | January 1985 |
| MBR star rating /5 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Genre | General Fiction (Adult) |
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Synopsis:
the first in her beloved Rutshire Chronicles, is a sizzling, larger-than-life tale that blends the glittering world of international showjumping with tangled relationships, intense rivalries, and steamy affairs. Set against the backdrop of the picturesque Cotswold countryside and the glamorous playgrounds of the elite, this novel catapults readers into a world where passion, ambition, and betrayal know no bounds.
At the heart of Riders is the intense rivalry between two men: Jake Lovell and Rupert Campbell-Black. Jake, a brooding outsider with Romani heritage, has a magical way with horses—and women—but is haunted by his past. His rise through the ranks of showjumping is fueled by his hatred for the golden-boy Rupert, an aristocratic playboy who seems to have it all: charm, wealth, and a natural ease in the saddle. Yet beneath Rupert’s glossy exterior lies a man as ruthless and flawed as any villain.
As the two men jockey for dominance in both the competitive world of showjumping and the bedroom, their paths cross again and again, creating a storm of jealousy, seduction, and revenge. From stolen horses to broken hearts, Jake and Rupert’s feud escalates across Europe, culminating in a showdown during the Los Angeles Olympics that threatens to destroy not only their careers but also the lives of those caught in their crossfire.
Review of “Riders” by Jilly Cooper
Riders, the first novel in Jilly Cooper’s Rutshire Chronicles, is a quintessential 1980s bonkbuster that plunges readers into the glitzy and turbulent world of competitive showjumping. At its core, the novel revolves around the intense rivalry between two larger-than-life characters: the privileged, arrogant Rupert Campbell-Black and the dark, brooding gypsy, Jake Lovell. But while the horse-riding competition forms the backdrop, the real drama unfolds in the personal and romantic entanglements of its cast of characters, making Riders a novel that delivers more than just equestrian sports.
When you pick up Riders, especially if you’re familiar with its reputation, you’re likely expecting a juicy, sensational story filled with passion, betrayal, and glamour. And in many ways, the book lives up to its “bonkbuster” label—a genre known for mixing romance, scandal, and explicit sex scenes. However, what makes Riders stand out is how it balances these elements with humor, richly developed characters, and an undercurrent of social commentary.
A Bonkbuster for the Modern Reader: Does Riders Still Shock?
While Riders was considered spicy and provocative when it was published in 1985, modern readers might find the book’s famous sexual scenes tamer than expected. Jilly Cooper employs a “closed-door” or “slightly ajar” approach in many of the novel’s intimate moments. Yes, there is plenty of sex, but Cooper’s treatment of it often leaves more to the imagination than the book’s reputation suggests.
However, it’s crucial to note that the book is undeniably a product of its time. In today’s world, certain scenes may raise concerns, particularly around issues of consent. There’s at least one scene that stands out as troubling by contemporary standards. Cooper’s portrayal of romantic and sexual relationships can feel problematic, and while this wasn’t flagged in the 1980s, modern readers may view some of these dynamics through a more critical lens. It’s important to approach the novel with an understanding that these elements reflect the era in which it was written.
Character Rivalry: The Heart of Riders
The real strength of Riders lies in its main storyline—the feud between Rupert and Jake. The rivalry is not just a superficial competition over showjumping but a battle for status, love, and respect. Both characters are deeply flawed yet compelling, each representing starkly different backgrounds and worldviews. Rupert, the entitled “golden boy” of the riding world, is charming yet morally dubious, while Jake, the brooding outsider, carries a chip on his shoulder and a deep desire to prove himself. Their personal vendetta drives the plot forward and keeps readers hooked.
Beyond the central rivalry, Cooper populates her novel with a rich ensemble cast. From glamorous socialites to struggling riders, many of these side characters are so well-developed they could carry their own novels. The frequent shifts in perspective, which occur even within chapters, allow readers to inhabit the minds of these characters, understanding their motives, desires, and flaws. Cooper is a master at juggling multiple storylines, ensuring that every character, no matter how minor, plays a significant role in the overarching drama.
More Than Just Romance: The World of Showjumping
Although Riders is often labeled a bonkbuster, it’s also a fascinating exploration of the world of showjumping, which Cooper brings to life with vivid detail. Horses in Riders aren’t just props; they are integral to the plot and the development of the characters. The equestrian setting, combined with the glamorous locations and high-society intrigue, makes for a rich and intoxicating world that readers can immerse themselves in.
Despite the sometimes-sensational elements, the novel captures the dedication, talent, and sacrifice required in competitive sports. The world of international showjumping, with its prestige and pressures, becomes a powerful metaphor for the characters’ personal struggles and triumphs.
A Product of Its Time: Revisiting Riders in 2024
Reading Riders in 2024 is a mixed experience. On one hand, it’s a highly entertaining read, filled with escapist drama, romance, and biting wit. Cooper’s ability to blend high-society scandal with heartfelt personal struggles makes the novel as enjoyable now as it was in the 80s.
However, the novel’s tone and treatment of certain issues reflect the sensibilities of its time. Some of the gender dynamics, particularly in the romantic and sexual relationships, may feel dated or even problematic by today’s standards. Modern readers may find themselves cringing at certain moments, but this is a reflection of the era in which the book was written.
Final Thoughts: Riders as a Genre-Defining Novel
Ultimately, Riders is a quintessential example of the 1980s bonkbuster genre—bold, brash, and unashamedly indulgent. While it may not shock modern readers in the way it once did, it remains a riveting, character-driven story filled with humour, heartbreak, and high-stakes drama.
What sets Riders apart from other novels in its genre is Jilly Cooper’s sharp wit and her ability to craft a complex, interwoven narrative where the personal is just as important as the competitive. If you’re ready for a romp through the glamorous, scandalous, and slightly ridiculous world of show jumping, Riders is a thrilling ride you won’t soon forget—just be prepared to view it through the lens of its time.
Conclusion
Meet :
Jilly Cooper, OBE (born February 21, 1937) is an English author. She started her career as a journalist and wrote numerous works of non-fiction before writing several romance novels, the first of which appeared in 1975. She is most famous for writing the six blockbuster novels the Rutshire Chronicles.
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