Novelist Dame Jilly Cooper, best known for best-selling books including Rivals and Riders, has died at the age of 88.
Her children Felix and Emily said: "Mum was the shining light in all of our lives.
"Her love for all of her family and friends knew no bounds. Her unexpected death has come as a complete shock.
"We are so proud of everything she achieved in her life and can't begin to imagine life without her infectious smile and laughter all around us."