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The Aristocrat
#1 New York Times bestselling author Catherine Coulter shows what destiny has in store for an unlikely pair in this delightful novel.
Pro quarterback Brant Asher has achieved the American dream: fame, good looks, money, and beautiful women at his beck and call. But news from across the pond is about to change everything…
A distant English relative has left Brant an inheritance, which includes a title, an estate, and…a wife.
Daphne Asherwood has always been the wallflower of the family, but she still can’t believe that her uncle had to bribe someone into marrying her—an American football star, no less. She and Brant barely speak the same language, yet when she lets down her guard—and Brant takes a chance on fate—a modern marriage of convenience may turn into happily ever after.
Includes a preview of Aftershocks.
Pro quarterback Brant Asher has achieved the American dream: fame, good looks, money, and beautiful women at his beck and call. But news from across the pond is about to change everything…
A distant English relative has left Brant an inheritance, which includes a title, an estate, and…a wife.
Daphne Asherwood has always been the wallflower of the family, but she still can’t believe that her uncle had to bribe someone into marrying her—an American football star, no less. She and Brant barely speak the same language, yet when she lets down her guard—and Brant takes a chance on fate—a modern marriage of convenience may turn into happily ever after.
Includes a preview of Aftershocks.
181 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 1986
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713 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
June 19, 2013
Brant Asher is a professional American football player who discovers that he's inherited an English estate and the title that goes with it. Of course, there are stipulations to accepting the inheritance, including marrying a distant cousin, Daphne, who has been reported to be unattractive (a "dog" is how Brant refers to her many times). If he doesn't agree to the marriage, he loses the inheritance, Daphne becomes essentially penniless, and everything goes to spoiled and selfish cousin Lucilla, who makes a brief appearance at the start of the book and then vanishes entirely once the inevitable decision is made. The decision is made much easier, of course, when Brant discovers that Daphne is not, in fact, a "double bagger."
Blech and crap. This book very nearly fell into the 1-star void of not being finished. It's dated, for one, and in the vein of formulaic romance books churned out by the hundreds yearly under the Harlequin and Silhouette Books banners, is 240 pages of glorious sex with occasional dialogue thrown in for variety. Most of the dialogue consists of Daphne being confused or mixing up American slang, and/or Brant's smug comments on her innocence. I know this was written in 1986 and all, but really...were Brits really THAT obtuse about slang terms? At a midpoint in the book, I mentally started referring to our hero couple as Braggart and Dimwit.
What amuses me most? In logging my info into my personal book tracker log, I discovered that I had apparently already read this in 2006 and gave it an 8/10 rating at the time. Clearly it wasn't impressive enough to stay with my memory banks, nor stand the test of time as my reading tastes have changed. I'm definitely not keeping this one for a third go-round!
Blech and crap. This book very nearly fell into the 1-star void of not being finished. It's dated, for one, and in the vein of formulaic romance books churned out by the hundreds yearly under the Harlequin and Silhouette Books banners, is 240 pages of glorious sex with occasional dialogue thrown in for variety. Most of the dialogue consists of Daphne being confused or mixing up American slang, and/or Brant's smug comments on her innocence. I know this was written in 1986 and all, but really...were Brits really THAT obtuse about slang terms? At a midpoint in the book, I mentally started referring to our hero couple as Braggart and Dimwit.
What amuses me most? In logging my info into my personal book tracker log, I discovered that I had apparently already read this in 2006 and gave it an 8/10 rating at the time. Clearly it wasn't impressive enough to stay with my memory banks, nor stand the test of time as my reading tastes have changed. I'm definitely not keeping this one for a third go-round!
January 26, 2019
I'd give it less than one star. Really a bad book. She wrote this early in her career and thankfully she had improved over time. Don't waste your time reading this book.
February 1, 2013
Best Moment: When Daphne is cursing Brant. I really love her litany of curses and her musing about which is the best one to describe him.
Worst Moment: When Brant describes Daphne, unknowingly to her face, as a "double bagging dog." It's not just an uncomfortable moment...but...really makes it difficult to feel sympathy for Brant and to eventually love him.
Synopsis: Brant Asher is a professional American football player...and then, unexpectedly, he also becomes a British Lord. Daphne Asherwood is a prim and shy niece to the man who locks them both into an unexpected contract for marriage. In order to get what they both want, they have to be married. Brant wants a different kind of life and Daphne loves her childhood home. Brant has to figure out a way to become a lord of the manor and Daphne has to find her confidence. Add in a make-over, some awkward sports meets proper England moments, and a few romantic self-discovery moments and you have The Aristrocrat .
The Good: The greatest thing about this story is the mixed chemistry of, first, a sporty American and a proper and well-bred Brit, and, second, a football player cum British Lord and a trying-to-find-herself shy girl. I love the modern-day version of a couple being forced to marry. I love the clash of cultures and the attempt to work their ways into each other's worlds. I really like the appreciation on the part Brant for Daphne and his eventual need for her to be confident as much as she needs it for herself.
The Bad: The story is a little dated. There are also some moments that leave the reader wondering about Brant Asher as a hero. He's a little too confident. He's a little too "Adonis." A lot of these problems come from the dating of the hero, but still...not to mention the vocabulary of some of the random characters. The lawyer's speech is a bit annoying. Also...I really hate the make-over trope, but I suppose that's a bit of a personal-taste thing. I can't help but think of every teen movie where the glasses get taken off and BAM--Model in disguise. Also...I'm with the hero of My Big Fat Greek Wedding when he says "I don't remember Frump Girl, but I remember you." I would love it if the girls could stay frumpy sometimes.
The Ugly: Guess what? This cover wasn't too bad!
We’ve all been there. We’re wandering through a bookstore, or maybe aimlessly searching suggestions, looking at random lists on Amazon.com for something to read. Happily, we traipse through booktopias convinced that we’re going to find something wonderful to read and then… We are greeted with the cover.
Before I begin, I feel I must point out one very simple fact:
Most authors get absolutely no input in their covers, or, if they do, it’s mostly a kind of courtesy. Publishers rule. Authors weep and hope for reprints.
Challenge accepted. But sometimes...just sometimes...you find something not too bad at all.
As posted to http://bookswithbenefits.com
Worst Moment: When Brant describes Daphne, unknowingly to her face, as a "double bagging dog." It's not just an uncomfortable moment...but...really makes it difficult to feel sympathy for Brant and to eventually love him.
Synopsis: Brant Asher is a professional American football player...and then, unexpectedly, he also becomes a British Lord. Daphne Asherwood is a prim and shy niece to the man who locks them both into an unexpected contract for marriage. In order to get what they both want, they have to be married. Brant wants a different kind of life and Daphne loves her childhood home. Brant has to figure out a way to become a lord of the manor and Daphne has to find her confidence. Add in a make-over, some awkward sports meets proper England moments, and a few romantic self-discovery moments and you have The Aristrocrat .
The Good: The greatest thing about this story is the mixed chemistry of, first, a sporty American and a proper and well-bred Brit, and, second, a football player cum British Lord and a trying-to-find-herself shy girl. I love the modern-day version of a couple being forced to marry. I love the clash of cultures and the attempt to work their ways into each other's worlds. I really like the appreciation on the part Brant for Daphne and his eventual need for her to be confident as much as she needs it for herself.
The Bad: The story is a little dated. There are also some moments that leave the reader wondering about Brant Asher as a hero. He's a little too confident. He's a little too "Adonis." A lot of these problems come from the dating of the hero, but still...not to mention the vocabulary of some of the random characters. The lawyer's speech is a bit annoying. Also...I really hate the make-over trope, but I suppose that's a bit of a personal-taste thing. I can't help but think of every teen movie where the glasses get taken off and BAM--Model in disguise. Also...I'm with the hero of My Big Fat Greek Wedding when he says "I don't remember Frump Girl, but I remember you." I would love it if the girls could stay frumpy sometimes.
The Ugly: Guess what? This cover wasn't too bad!
We’ve all been there. We’re wandering through a bookstore, or maybe aimlessly searching suggestions, looking at random lists on Amazon.com for something to read. Happily, we traipse through booktopias convinced that we’re going to find something wonderful to read and then… We are greeted with the cover.
Before I begin, I feel I must point out one very simple fact:
Most authors get absolutely no input in their covers, or, if they do, it’s mostly a kind of courtesy. Publishers rule. Authors weep and hope for reprints.
Challenge accepted. But sometimes...just sometimes...you find something not too bad at all.
As posted to http://bookswithbenefits.com
January 30, 2015
Преди няколко дни попаднах на доста заглавия на любовни романи в библиотеката на chitanka.info. Сред тях видях и първите заглавия, които съм чела от жанра в тийнейджърските си години. Стана ми едно такова, носталгично, и реших да си ги препрочета, ей така, заради доброто старо време. Определено не е една от най-блестящите ми идеи. Вместо да си кажа "ето, едно време романите наистина бяха по-добри!" се усещам как се държа за главата и се чудя на глас "и аз някога съм считала това за добро?!" :D Определено си беше приятно пътуване в дебрите на спомените, но ако се абстрахираме от сантиментите и трябва да съдим само качеството на книгата сама по себе си бих казала, че спокойно можете да се запътите към по-зелени пасища. Тук няма нищо повече от избуяли тревуляци и магарешки тръни. :D :D :D
April 26, 2019
I've already read this book when I was just 16y.o. and guess what, i like it. Then it was the start of me as a book lover. And for 16yrs I never forgot about this and catherine coulter. I'm not good in english grammar because its not my 1st language so if there's any grammar error. i might have missed it and don't care at all.
For me, the story is great. I liked how the characters changed from this to that. If you're into this kind of story then try it.
For me, the story is great. I liked how the characters changed from this to that. If you're into this kind of story then try it.
May 1, 2023
very outdated re attitudes to women
I should have checked the copyright date before getting this book. It is extremely dated—outdated?—with respect to gender norms. I just found myself flipping pages just to get over it. Don’t waste your time!
I should have checked the copyright date before getting this book. It is extremely dated—outdated?—with respect to gender norms. I just found myself flipping pages just to get over it. Don’t waste your time!
February 7, 2021
I am torn between two and three stars on this book. I love Catherine Coulter's FBI series! I have also enjoyed a few of her other books set way back in a time long before I was born. But I have read a couple of her 80's romance books now and just not really loving these.
I went with 3 stars because I did finish it and its not that it wasn't a good story, I just don't love the very old fashioned male and female roles taking place in the story. I also really do enjoy Coulter's books and she has so many and if I don't love one or two of them I don't really think that is a big deal. I still highly recommend her books, maybe just not this one!!
I went with 3 stars because I did finish it and its not that it wasn't a good story, I just don't love the very old fashioned male and female roles taking place in the story. I also really do enjoy Coulter's books and she has so many and if I don't love one or two of them I don't really think that is a big deal. I still highly recommend her books, maybe just not this one!!
February 19, 2018
A cute and realistic story involving and American pro football quarterback (Brant), who just happens to be descended from British royalty on his father's side and a young British woman (Daphne) taken in (and very much sheltered) by an elderly uncle who is Viscount Asherwood. Upon his death Brant receives not only the title, but also a laundry list of rules and responsibilities which includes him marrying Daphne. This was a fun read.
June 5, 2018
Did not fail
I have read Catherine Coulter years ago. Always enjoyed her stories, she writes in a way that you never realize that you ended up reading a lot longer than you planned on. As time passes and you become an elderly reader then you just can't afford her books. That is a shame.
I have read Catherine Coulter years ago. Always enjoyed her stories, she writes in a way that you never realize that you ended up reading a lot longer than you planned on. As time passes and you become an elderly reader then you just can't afford her books. That is a shame.
August 11, 2018
Early book....
I absolutely love Catherine Coulter. Definitely note that this is one of her early books. It's a little disconcerting to read a romance book now with such a male chauvinist perspective and a weak female. Her work and dialogue has evolved so much since this book was originally published. Personally- I recommend skipping this one.
I absolutely love Catherine Coulter. Definitely note that this is one of her early books. It's a little disconcerting to read a romance book now with such a male chauvinist perspective and a weak female. Her work and dialogue has evolved so much since this book was originally published. Personally- I recommend skipping this one.
May 23, 2023
Football star and demure heiress
Catherine Coulter always entertains! This was a nice break between heavier books. A famous football quarterback inherits a castle in England with one catch - he must marry the young woman living in the castle. Let the fun and emotions ensue! I enjoyed the story, but did feel like the ending was a little rushed. Definitely a good beach read!
Catherine Coulter always entertains! This was a nice break between heavier books. A famous football quarterback inherits a castle in England with one catch - he must marry the young woman living in the castle. Let the fun and emotions ensue! I enjoyed the story, but did feel like the ending was a little rushed. Definitely a good beach read!
September 2, 2023
This is a little different story. I enjoyed reading as Daphne gained confidence. Brant is not a very nice person. He quickly judges Daphne on her appearance alone and the words that he attacks her with about the loss of the baby is horrid. Most women would never be able to get over his verbal attack. To me that would not bode well for a long-term marriage.
June 6, 2018
A great read.
I have liked this author since way back.Her first( for me) were absolutely rivet ing. Some of the middle ones fluffy. Her mysteries are right on. And I loved this love story. Mark mea fan for lift
I have liked this author since way back.Her first( for me) were absolutely rivet ing. Some of the middle ones fluffy. Her mysteries are right on. And I loved this love story. Mark mea fan for lift
February 5, 2020
I wish I would have read The reviews before I read this book. The book was slow, it took forever to get interesting and then I only finished the book because I wanted to see how it would end. I didn't feel a real connection with the characters, everything felt rushed. Not my favorite book
April 28, 2021
It’s a decent read but I hated how Daphne just let everybody walk all over her. I wanted to scream & even threw my book against the wall when she just let her husband get away with talking crap like that to her. Seriously, no one can be that meek... can they? Okay, I just had to rant about that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2022
Fun Read
This was a very enjoyable story. Very likable characters and spring like locations, you just wanted to be there. No surprises, just feel good reading that kept you entertained throughout.
This was a very enjoyable story. Very likable characters and spring like locations, you just wanted to be there. No surprises, just feel good reading that kept you entertained throughout.
April 30, 2023
Great read!!
You just can't go wrong with a Catherine Counter novel...the characters in The Aristocrat are perfect for each other, Daphne and Brent, of course when will they realize it!!
You just can't go wrong with a Catherine Counter novel...the characters in The Aristocrat are perfect for each other, Daphne and Brent, of course when will they realize it!!
June 13, 2018
Love this author but this story was so so. It lacked any depth to the characters. At some parts, it seemed to repeat itself and was slow.
September 10, 2018
A little old fashioned in the way he treated the girl but cute. Must have been written a while ago.
September 17, 2018
Slow start but a good book
March 8, 2019
Determination Plus challenge book.
Not what I expected really enjoyed this book.
Not what I expected really enjoyed this book.
June 16, 2019
SSE #331 = 2.5 stars
September 3, 2020
I was expecting it to be a “so bad it’s good” read but no this book was just bad. The plot points haven’t aged well at all.
Read
April 17, 2021A bit dated. Characters were likable but felt like another era. Coulter is a great writer and has dozens (hundreds?) to her credit, so I think this early work reflects the time it was written.
May 27, 2021
A quick read. Just okay. 05/27/21 **1/2
April 7, 2022
nice entertaining easy read. not too deep, not too complicated, sweet love story. very different from her current novels.
May 8, 2022
Character/dialogue work is awful. The way time moves in this book is confusing and of course it’s of the time it was written in and sexist. DNF’d at Ch. 8.
May 1, 2023
The Aristocrat
Catherine Coulter is one of my favorite writers. I love her books and have many that I read again and again. This is one more to add to the list
Catherine Coulter is one of my favorite writers. I love her books and have many that I read again and again. This is one more to add to the list
May 9, 2023
A quick light read. Definitely not up to par with her later novels, but a good in between book from my heavier reads.
May 9, 2023
Loved it!
Short story and totally believable. Some of these are so far fetched they there's no way they could be real. Very few editing issues also - something I don't like.
Short story and totally believable. Some of these are so far fetched they there's no way they could be real. Very few editing issues also - something I don't like.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews