An enjoyable Regency romance reminiscent of Georgette Heyer's style. Catherine Kullman has a deft touch with dialogue and clearly paints the world of her characters.

This was a new to me author, and I was persuaded by the pitch which leaned traditional. From that perspective, this book did not disappoint. However, I will say that it was slow to start and get into, and I started and stopped several times before committing, so be prepared for a slower pace that will take a bit of push to become immersed in the world the author has built.

The historical details are rich, engaging, and well researched. Kullman really manages to create an immersive experience with lots of variety in location (country and London) and nails many of the manners and etiquette elements to really feel like an authentic read. If some of the third quarter to end veers a little high on the melodrama/gothic scale (see content warnings for hints), it doesn’t change the overall experience of the book as a good traditional Regency experience for readers who love that tone/mood/pace of an Austen or contemporary. It is not a trope focused book, meandering a bit more into the bildungsroman of a young woman (sensible, plucky, and likeable) who learns what romance and love really means (especially to herself).

The hero is a solider, battle scars and all, who is on leave and debating his next steps after Napolean’s final defeat. He is not a rake or a lively character, but rather a steady and constant figure with heroic moments and a clear devotion to family and later, his intended.

I liked the romance a lot, as it really captures the doubts and mental process of a young woman (and man) discovering their own values and how that matches with another person.

There are elements of the epic in this book, so that when I was finished I felt like I had read a saga spread over time even though the reality was it was only a few months. Romance factor heavily, compared with other family dramas, and their are lots of characters, which gives it a real depth.

The humor and the sharp, focused writing of Heyer are not hallmarks of this novel, so when I emphasize traditional I mean to align it with other traditional Regency authors. However, there is a lot to love in the depth of immersive experience and great historical research, the complex characters and motivations, and the work that is sometimes involved in falling in love, especially when there are compromises that must be made.

It teeters on the edge of kisses only, but stays there, so if you don’t mind a bit of mature content and some violence but prefer intimacy off the page this may be a good fit.

★★★★★★ 4.75 out of 6 A historically detailed exploration of falling love and what that means

An excellently formulated and well written book. One that has good characters that mature along the way and the journey itself is a wonderful read. It may be a tad bit long, but it works for this book.

When I requested this novel I was into the ideal of reading this novel but I discovered that I was unable to provide feedback on this book due to the series being archived prior to download and file/download issues. Again, I am sorry for the inconvenience of not being to review and thank you for taking the time to provide me an ARC of this novel.

To be quite honest, it's a while since I read this, mainly because I wasn't easily able to write a review for a few days after reading it and by that time I couldn't remember anything much of the book. In summary, I suppose all I can say is that I think I generally enjoyed it as I read it but found it highly forgettable. I would definitely consider reading more by the author if I saw them for free, but probably wouldn't pay for one unless I first read another that I found I actually remembered.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

A delightful Regency romance of the better kind. Heroine, Arabella (Bella) came out four years ago but, family bereavements, mean that she has missed three seasons and hence three opportunities to find a husband. She is well received at the current season with suitors on every arm including the dashing, rich, Henry Darlow. Unfortunately he has no interest in her views, thoughts, personality and she rapidly becomes disillusioned with his attitudes. She rejects his advances in a perfectly respectable style. Meantime she is reintroduced to an old school friend (Thomas) of her, now deceased, brother and who has recently returned from the French Wars. He's a rector's son so from an acceptable class. Their courtship forms the core of the book although there are, of course as in any good Regency Romance, some trials and tribulations to overcome before the happy ever after ending. Engaging and well-written, an enjoyable light read and I'd happily read more from the author. Thanks to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

Catherine Kullmann has become a favorite author of mine in the historical romance genre. Her writing combines interesting, well-developed characters, absorbing stories, and authentic settings. She also does a fine job in integrating historical information into her stories without neglecting the narrative. “The Potential for Love” has a lovely cover that fits the time frame of the story very well.

The heroine, Arabella, called Bella by her family, has reached the time in her life where she feels ready for marriage, but she is not sure how to determine which of her suitors would be a loving partner that also would respect her own thoughts and opinions. Two very different men are interested in her. One is Major Thomas Ferraunt, the Rector’s son and recently returned soldier. Thomas was a close friend of Bella’s brother, Arthur, whose death in the war with Napoleon is still being grieved by the family. The other suitor is Sir Henry Danlow, who is considered a great catch by the ton. Sir Henry is attracted to Bella and sees her as someone he can mold to fit his idea of perfection. At first Bella is flattered by his attention. Thomas is also attracted to her, but thinks their difference in rank and wealth puts her far above him. Bella feels comfortable with Thomas and enjoys their developing friendship.

We get to know both of these men very well, and Kullmann takes time to show how Bella explores her feelings about these men. In an interesting scene Bella talks to her father about how to decide who would be the right man to choose as her husband. Her father helps her see what is most important to her, and also talks about “the essential something that calls us to them” and will help her recognize the possibility or “potential” for love with that person. At that point Bella has decided which suitor is not the right one, but there are still many events, obstacles, and some danger before she gets her happy ending.

I highly recommend “The Potential for Love” and thank NetGalley for the opportunity to read it. This is a book I know I will read again.

An engaging Regency romance brimming with interesting and endearing characters. The prose style and structure were well-thought-out and expertly crafted.

While I enjoyed the personal relationships, conflicts, and resolutions, I found the numerous descriptions of frocks, finery, and food a distraction from the narrative and also wished that the story had wrapped up at the altar.

Readers familiar with Georgette Heyer's style and historical accuracy will not have to look much further than Catherine Kullman for their next read. I look forward to her next novel.

A well written book about life in the Regency period. The story kept me interested and was neither too romantic or descriptive. There was plenty to enjoy and recommend it to be read.

Received this fantastic story from Net Gallery, "The Potential For Love" is truly a wonderful love story of a girl who had a mind of her own and what is the best fit for her,her heart or here mind? The adventures she comes across with two men,who will it be? Both men have a character that you may not know who to pick. Well written where you have such a hard time putting the book down cause what will happen next with these characters?War does strange things to men and is this man ready for his future? I will be reading more from this author, "Catherine Kullmann"! Don't pass this up as just another love-war story,it has to much mystery and adventures!

"Be honest with yourself and, when the time comes, be honest with him. There is no place for dissimulation within love, and if you feel you must pretend to be someone other than you are, then he is not the right man for you."

Lord Henry Danlow is the perfect suitor. He is charming, titled, and she has caught his eye. But while others may have rejoiced at such a match, Arabella “Bella” Malvin found Lord Henry’s attention somewhat disturbing. Lord Henry does not seem interested in anything Bella has to say, and besides, when she is with him, she cannot help but wish she were with another.

Major Thomas Ferraunt had been through Hell and back. Five long years of war on the continent had left him with his fair share of scars — both the visible kinds and the ones that could not be seen. Now, he is at a crossroads. He wants a family, a home, a woman to adore for the rest of her life. These things, the army cannot give him. If only he were brave enough to tell Bella how much she means to him. But who was he trying to fool? He was
shooting for the stars. He had no right to imagine a life with Bella.

If only Lord Henry were Major Ferraunt, then Bella would embrace his advances, and she would marry him. If only…

From a bittersweet reunion to an unforeseen danger, The Potential For Love by Catherine Kullmann is a Regency Romance triumph.

This richly detailed and emotionally charged tale is brought to life in all of its glorious splendour by Kullmann. With an enthralling narrative and a novelist eye for human fragility and frailty, Kullmann has presented her readers with a romance that is as tender as it is believable. I adored how Kullmann, with a seemingly effortless dip of her quill, penned a story that is not only beguiling but one that is near on impossible to turn away from. I was thoroughly enchanted with this novel from beginning to end.

The Potential For Love is a slow burn of desire and passion. It is a love story about a couple who should know better than to fall in love with each other. In a world where breeding and your standing in society was considered more important than your morals, or your rakish behaviour, the romance between Arabella Malvin and Major Thomas Ferraunt was decidedly refreshing. Thomas is no handsome rake. He is the rector's son. And yet he is worth a hundred Lord Henry’s.

I adored Kullmann's portrayal of Bella. Bella is a very insightful young woman who does not suffer fools gladly. She realises that all that glitters is not gold and her head is not turned by wealth and titles. She is, however, acutely aware of her place in the world and the expectations that her family have of her. Bella is extremely concerned that she will lose all control of not only her finances but also her freedom if she chooses to marry the wrong man. Bella's careful consideration of Lord Henry's courtship demonstrated Bella's level of maturity. In contrast, her relationship with Thomas is irresistible. Their story is one of awakening desires and shy first kisses.

Where do I even begin to describe how wonderful Thomas' depiction was. Thomas is a refreshing hero. So often in Regency Romances, the story is about a rake who is reformed by the young and innocent debutant, but in this story, Thomas is a man of integrity. He is the kind of person you would want your daughter to marry. He is kind. He is thoughtful. He is genuinely likeable. Thomas is undoubtedly swoon-worthy material. I thought Kullmann's depiction of Thomas was sublime. I loved him.

As with all romances, there is a complication, and in this case, a very dangerous one, who threatens to destroy the protagonists’ relationship. I am not going to give away any spoilers, but the antagonist in this tale is a seemingly unlikely one, and the lengths he is prepared to go to achieve his aims are quite extraordinary. I did fear for Bella's safety on more than one occasion. Kullmann has given her readers a very coldly calculating antagonist who sent shivers up my spine. Kudos, Ms Kullmann.

The historical detailing in this novel has to be commended. Kullmann has written her book with a keen sense of time and place. Kullmann also writes with both elegance and authority, which gives her story a sense of realism. And not only does Kullmann write with sensitivity to the era but she also has a novelist intuition for this book’s intended audience.

I felt that there is an essence of Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility in this story, which made The Potential For Love absolutely irresistible. There is an edge of satire in Kullmann’s portrayal of le bon ton, as there is in Austen's books. Kullmann also cleverly describes the plight of women in the early 19th Century with objectivity. However, unlike Austen, Kullmann has delivered what modern readers expect from a Regency Romance. The story is compelling, and it is incredibly fast-paced — this is the kind of book that can be enjoyed while drinking a warm cup of hot chocolate.

If you are a lover of quality Regency Romance, then The Potential For Love by Catherine Kullmann certainly deserves a place on your bookshelf and in your heart. I loved every syllable, every word, every sentence. It is, in all ways, a real treat.

I Highly Recommend.

Review by Mary Anne Yarde.
The Coffee Pot Book Club.

I truly enjoyed every minute spent reading "The potential for love". First, the quality of writing contributes to a full immersion into the everyday life of gentle people. Not so gentle for some, so, it gives a stir and some suspens in the storyline. The depiction of the social aspects are well integrated in the plot, it does not feel like a lecture, hence you are learning a lot. The true interest is how the reader develops a liking for the characters. Also, the reader experiences true escapism. Landscapes, houses, outings, people , London and the counryside are described in such vivid terms that you are escaping to another time yet with landmarks easy to identify.
In a few words, a perfect read !
I received a copy in exchange for a fair review.

‘The Potential for Love’ is debated by Arabella Malvin who finds herself facing her fourth season. She realises that the potential to love in a marriage, is what will make her truly happy, and the though reiterated by both her father and her mother. The story follows Arabella and her developing friendship with Major Thomas Ferraunt, the only child of the local Rector and his wife. Upon returning from the Battle of Waterloo, he meets Arabella and soon finds himself at her family home, reflecting on the battle with Arabella’s family, during which her brother was killed. Soon after, Arabella returns to London to begin her season and finds herself courted by Lord Henry Danlow. Yet, all is not as it seems with Henry and Arabella soon distances herself from him and accepting Thomas’ proposal of marriage. When Thomas’ fortunes change for the better, the couple must also change and accept the complexities of love.
This is my first book by Catherine Kullmann, and I thoroughly enjoyed the detail provided behind the characters and their experiences. She has interwoven, the Battle of Waterloo with sufficient detail that I found fascinating and provided depth to the storyline. This is not a flimsy romance but one of substance, as is reflected by the maturity with which Arabella and Thomas show as their relationship develops. An author that I will be keeping an eye on.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

A good regency read. A good romantic read with the right amount of suspense and intrigue.

The story has an abrupt end considering the way the story was moving forward.

Fans of historical romance will undoubtedly love this book. The author's research of the time period and her literary knowledge shine through making it a more intelligent and realistic read than a lot of the regency romps flooding the market.

This story had everything I love; a lovely romance with likeable characters and a bit of suspense and intrigue.

A clever and well written story that entertained from start to finish.

I requested this ARC because the cover reminded me of Georgette Heyer's book and I can say it was an entertaining and engrossing read.
The characters are well thought, the setting is vivid and the plot flows.
One small issue with the dialogues that sometimes seems a bit rethorical.
It was a good read, recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.

I do really enjoy this author’s work, her books are literary - in that I mean they are well written in the accepted ‘regency style’ made popular by Georgette Heyer, but they are a little more modern, as they don’t depend on a lot of regency slang in the dialogue, and they devote more time to the core romantic relationship than Heyer typically did.

This book concerns Arabella Malvin, who bumps into an officer when out one day, and for an instant she thinks it is her brother, who was reported dead. It’s actually Major Thomas Ferraunt, only child of the local Rector and his wife, who is back to civilian life and needs to learn to adjust to not being at war.

Drawn to one another, they become friends, and as Arabella begins her fourth season, she starts to be courted by the very suitable Lord Henry Danlow, handsome and very proud, Henry starts to see Arabella as his to mould and control.

As Thomas tries to find his feet, and occupy himself, he finds himself drawn more and more to Arabella, but is convinced that her father will not consider him, when there is a potential titled suitor in the running for Arabella’s hand.

Arabella is also drawn to Thomas, but she is also sure she wants a marriage where her needs and wishes will be respected, which suitor will offer her the life she wants.

When Thomas’s fortunes take a turn for the better, can they work through their feeling and differences and discover the potential for love and a HEA.

I really liked how Catherine Kullmann developed the characters in this book, Arabella is thoughtful about her future, understanding that the lot of women is a bad one if they don’t make the right choice in a husband, Thomas wants to do the right thing, and tries hard, but it takes time and effort for him to understand Arabella's feelings and needs, and also for him to express himself fully.

I enjoyed the fact that just because they were in love with each other, they couldn’t read each other’s minds straight away. They had to adjust to each other. It felt more realistic than other books where there is this perfect understanding once people have realised they love each other.

Highly Recommended.

I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and all opinions are my own.

Also posted on Goodreads

This was my first novel by Catherine Kullman and although it is set in the same world as Darcy Burke’s and Erica Ridley’s books, ie the Regency period, this writer is very different in style and content.
This is a much more serious Regency romance.
Set just after the battle of Waterloo with the regiments back in the UK on furlough as no longer on active duty. As a result the younger sons and gentlemen of the Ton were welcomed back in their best regimental finery - which of course was very dashing. Much more so than standard society dress.
However, it was not this that was to be the attraction between our two - Thomas and Bella. It was more the things that her father said were important for marriage. Friendship, companionship, similar interests and so on, and of course having compatible temperaments. Bella’s father said love would come if the other elements were satisfactory and he should know as he was on wife 2. And again we had a number of women dying as they gave birth.
He was also someone who believed that women could look after money and that they were sensible enough to own property.
This romance, typical of the genre has its ups and downs, with some excitement and rejected lovers etc etc and unexpected events that turn their expectations of their lives together upside down.
This novel was of a good length and thus Catherine could explore quite a number of elements of the story and make it richer and more diverse. It was also enhanced by the author’s research into the era and the incorporation into the story of true elements of history. Not just the boots described in the fashion magazine but also the way men thought about what happened when they were away in the army. According to them the Bible accepted concubines - or mistresses - and it was acceptable to find one as a companion - such as a widow to ‘provide a refuge from military life’. See also what happens when Muslims go on pilgrimage and are ‘rented’ a wife for their stay. Hey ho - the bible was written by men!

I thought the novel was written and thoughtful and enjoyed her take on a Regency Romance.

Well written with believable characters. Not formulaic in the least, this was a well thought out, well written read. I enjoyed the book a great deal. It might have been a trifle long for the taste of some, not for me. The growth of the characters moved along well. A good, solid read which I enjoyed.

First time reading anything written by this author!

I adore clean regency romances (Jane Austen, but Georgette Heyer is my go to queen of regency). However, through NetGalley I've been able to find others who do just as good. Reading this book, I must say I was entertained and devoured it quite quickly.

The only fault I could say it had is that it had no real 'aim'. With Georgette Heyer's books she seems to have an aim with her characters and their situations. With this book, the characters didn't really have any sort of aim? It was like you were focusing on Thomas and Bella but you didn't really know why you were focusing on them?

The real sneaker was that Lord Hugo. He kind of just lingered there and was always causing trouble. I pretty much read the story thinking that he was our linchpin so to speak and he was. But I will not spoil.

In the end, it was a good read but it was lacking.