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Beyond 2018 – data protection laws built to last
Gigacycle > Information & Guidance > Beyond 2018 – data protection laws built to last
Elizabeth Denham welcomes the new Data Protection Act 2018 alongside the GDPR. Organisations and data protection professionals could use this as an introduction to the new Act.
Nearly a year after its announcement in the Queen's speech, the Data Protection Bill has worked its way through parliament with much debate and, with Royal Assent, is ready to move into UK law as the new Data Protection Act 2018.
As the data protection authority for the UK, we are eager to embrace the changes it brings and begin regulating the new UK and EU legislation that, from 25 May, will make our country one of the world's most progressive data protection regimes.
The previous Data Protection Act, passed a generation ago, failed to account for today's internet and digital technologies, social media and big data.
The new Act updates data protection laws in the UK, and sits alongside the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) which is also due to take effect in two days' time. The Act implements the EU Law Enforcement Directive, as well as extending domestic data protection laws to areas which are not covered by the GDPR.
The UK's growing digital economy relies on consumer trust to make it work. The Act, along with the GDPR provides a modernised, comprehensive package to protect people's personal data in order to build that trust.
Our personal data is a version of each of us – what we've done, what we've read, where we've been and who is in our network. It is our health status, our financial decisions, our political beliefs and affiliations. Our desire to book a flight, update our browser, or sign up for a service should not be governed merely by terms and conditions set by an organisation. Life is too short to decipher fine print.
The new laws provide tools and strengthened rights to allow people to take back control of their personal data.
The legislation requires increased transparency and accountability from organisations, and stronger rules to protect against theft and loss of data with serious sanctions and fines for those that deliberately or negligently misuse data.
And although the ICO will be able to impose much larger fines – this law is not about fines. It's about putting the consumer and citizen first. Telling people we can't lose sight of that.
The creation of the Data Protection Act 2018 is not an end point, it's just the beginning, in the same way that preparations for the GDPR don't end on 25 May 2018. From this date, we'll be enforcing the GDPR and the new Act but we all know that effective data protection requires clear evidence of commitment and ongoing effort.
It's an evolutionary process for organisations –no business, industry sector or technology stands still. Organisations must continue to identify and address emerging privacy and security risks in the weeks, months and years beyond 2018.
As long as there is data protection law the ICO is here to help. We have a whole host of guidance and resources on our website and we'll keep doing the same job we've always done, offering advice, guidance and education for everyone who needs it.
Governed by these laws, organisations will have the incentive and the opportunity to put people at the heart of their data services. Being fair, clear and accountable to their customers and employees, organisations large and small will be able to innovate with the confidence that they are building deeper digital trust.
Elizabeth Denham was appointed Information Commissioner in July 2016. Her key goal is to increase the UK public's trust and confidence in what happens to their personal data.


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Preview — To Steal a Heart by Jen Turano
To Steal a Heart
(The Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency #1)
Jen Turano (Goodreads Author)
After spending her childhood as a street thief, Gabriella Goodhue thought she'd put her past behind her until a fellow resident at her boardinghouse is unjustly accused of theft. Using her old skills to prove her friend's innocence, Gabriella unexpectedly encounters Nicholas Quinn, the man she once considered her best friend—until he abandoned her.
After being taken under t After spending her childhood as a street thief, Gabriella Goodhue thought she'd put her past behind her until a fellow resident at her boardinghouse is unjustly accused of theft. Using her old skills to prove her friend's innocence, Gabriella unexpectedly encounters Nicholas Quinn, the man she once considered her best friend—until he abandoned her.
After being taken under the wing of a professor who introduced him into society and named him as his heir, Nicholas is living far removed from his childhood life of crime. As a favor to a friend, Nicholas agreed to help clear the name of an innocent woman, never imagining he'd be reunited with the girl he thought lost to him forever.
As Gabriella and Nicholas are thrown together into one intrigue after another, their childhood affection grows into more, but their newfound feelings are tested when truths about their past are revealed and danger follows their every step. ...more
Kindle Store $9.99
Published November 17th 2020 by Bethany House Publishers (first published November 2020)
The Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency #1
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Start your review of To Steal a Heart (The Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency, #1)
Nov 17, 2020 Melissa (LifeFullyBooked) rated it really liked it
Can I just gush for a minute about how enjoyable Jen Turano's books are? I am always a little bit giddy when I pick one up because I know I am in for a treat, and this novel was no exception.
I'm generally not a big historical fiction fan, but the way Turano combines romance, humor, and in this book, a few well thought out mysteries, makes the experience of reading a delight. The 1886 Gilded Age setting among the New York Four Hundred's privileged members provides the perfect backdrop fo 4.5 stars
I'm generally not a big historical fiction fan, but the way Turano combines romance, humor, and in this book, a few well thought out mysteries, makes the experience of reading a delight. The 1886 Gilded Age setting among the New York Four Hundred's privileged members provides the perfect backdrop for this enchanting tale.
I loved the characters, particularly headstrong Gabriella and her childhood friend Nicholas. The romantic tension between the two is palpable, yet they cannot and will not admit it, not even to themselves. Both have a great deal to learn about and resolve regarding their pasts before they can confront the future. The start of the Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency is thrilling, the cases that they take and solve during the course of this novel are both fun and clever, and there's so much potential for further installments in the series with the plethora of women running the agency--all with secrets they are hiding. I can't wait to learn more about Daphne and Eunice in upcoming novels.
There's a very subtle faith message in the novel, but it is very approachable for those looking for a clean, enjoyable read. Turano's inclusion of animals in her stories consistently adds to the humor--the pirate dog and the kleptomaniac parrot are just two of the hilarious characters readers will encounter. All in all, this is a thoroughly wonderful book and a very entertaining way to spend time.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own. ...more
Nov 11, 2020 Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) rated it really liked it
Shelves: own, read-reviewed
About this book:
"After a childhood as a street thief, Gabriella Goodhue thought she'd put her past behind her until a fellow resident at her boardinghouse is unjustly accused of theft. In the middle of breaking into a safe that holds the proof to prove her friend's innocence, Gabriella is interrupted by Nicholas Quinn, the man she once considered her best friend—until he abandoned her.
After being taken under the wing of a professor who introduced him into society and named him as heir, Nichola About this book:
After being taken under the wing of a professor who introduced him into society and named him as heir, Nicholas is living far removed from his childhood life of crime. As a favor to a friend, Nicholas agreed to help clear the name of an innocent woman, never imagining he'd be reunited with the girl he thought lost to him forever.
As Gabriella and Nicholas are thrown together into one intrigue after another, their childhood affection grows into more, but their newfound feelings are tested when truths about their past are revealed and danger follows their every step."
Series: Book #1 in "The Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency".
Spiritual Content- A couple Scriptures are mentioned; Some witnessing & discussions; Talks about God, faiths, & paths; 'H's are capitalized when referring to God; Gabriella doesn't believe God has taken an interest in her life *Spoiler*(view spoiler)[ but realizes at the very end that He was watching over her (hide spoiler)]*End of Spoiler*; Mentions of God & faiths; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of churches/chapels, church going, ministers, sermons, & services; A couple mentions of Christian duty;
*Note: A couple mentions of a ghost.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: two 'dumb's and a 'stupid'; A couple mentions of curses (said, not written); Eye rolling; Being held at gunpoint & being threatened; Injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding; All about many mentions of thieves, stealing, burglaries, heists, pick-pocketing, crimes, criminals, gangs, bandits, arrests, & jail; Mentions of guns being aimed & shooting/killing; Mentions of fevers & deaths; Mentions of injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding; Mentions of an abduction; Mentions of children's fights, punishments, & children being beaten; Mentions of taverns & brawls; Mentions of a fire; Mentions of alcohol & social drinking; Mentions of lies & lying; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of jealousy; Mentions of divorces; A few mentions of threats, threatening to kill someone, & murder; A few mentions of hatred; A couple mentions of eavesdropping; A mention of a parent trying to sell their child; A mention of a dog fight;
*Note: Mentions of authors & books.
Sexual Content- Hand kisses (barely-above-not-detailed), four barely-above-not-detailed kisses, & a semi-detailed kiss; Some noticing, touches, & dancing; A few unwanted touches; Mentions of prostitutes, prostitution, brothels, & a madame that has been looking at young girls to come work for her; Mentions of married men having affairs, mistresses, assuming someone is a mistress, infidelity, betrayal, men taking advantage of women, illegitimate children, & out-of-wedlock pregnancies (*Spoiler* (view spoiler)[Gabriella's birth father was a married man (hide spoiler)]*End of Spoiler*); Mentions of kisses, kissing, & intimate relationships; Mentions of reputations & being ruined; Mentions of feeling tingly; Mentions of figures/curves, bosoms, feminine charms, & blushes; A few mentions of a boy trying to peek at a young girl bathing; A few mentions of men paying too much attention to a young girl & men (sometimes married men) gawking at women; A few mentions of scandals; A couple mentions of hand kisses; A mention of a young man "trying to force his attention on a girl"; Some love, falling in love, & the emotions.
-Gabriella Goodhue
-Nicholas Quinn
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1886
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Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
I've been anticipating the start to this series since I first learned about it over a year ago. I absolutely adored Jen Turano's prior book—which was the end to another great trilogy—so my excitement for this one was very high. I've always loved finding new historical mysteries or even just stories featuring Pinkerton agents. "To Steal a Heart" is the start of a series of an inquiry agency made up of women from the same boarding house.
It took me a little longer than normal to get into this book than most Jen Turano books, but I think that was because it's the start to a new series and there is a lot of characters to be introduced to. Secret identities are a favorite book trope of mine and this book was filled with them. I cannot wait for the rest of the series—but especially Eunice's story.
Gabriella and Nicholas were both great characters. While you know they may end up as more than friends by the end of the book due to the "romance" genre, I loved how clean their thoughts and actions towards each other were and just their friendship in general. I do wish there had been more faith content, personally, but there was some sprinkled throughout the story.
In my personal rating, I give it a four-star rating (and not a 4.5 star) because of the mentions of affairs, men taking advantage of women, a brothel owner looking at taking young girls, and a vile human's comments at the end. None of these topics were heavy or detailed in sexual nature, but still unpleasant at times. This is why I have marked the younger two age group ratings as a one-star rating. For those (who are slightly older), it depends on the girl to whether this content would be okay for her. None of that it taken as even a bit acceptable, though, so the morals are high in the story from our main characters.
Like I previously said, I am definitely looking forward to continue this series and seeing what our characters get into next. :)
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Author for this honest review.
Dec 08, 2020 Carrie Schmidt (Reading is My SuperPower) rated it really liked it
Shelves: 1800s, i-love-to-laugh, blog-reviewed, owned-ebook, historical, romantic-fiction, gilded-age
To Steal a Heart is true entertainment as only Jen Turano can provide! Part farce, part romantic comedy, the Gilded Age world comes alive with plenty of laughter and even a few swoons.
I need to start by talking about the supporting characters in this book – always important when you're starting a new series because chances are that several of those secondary characters will become protagonists (or at least play a larger role) as the series progresses. And these delightfully quirky personalities To Steal a Heart is true entertainment as only Jen Turano can provide! Part farce, part romantic comedy, the Gilded Age world comes alive with plenty of laughter and even a few swoons.
I need to start by talking about the supporting characters in this book – always important when you're starting a new series because chances are that several of those secondary characters will become protagonists (or at least play a larger role) as the series progresses. And these delightfully quirky personalities definitely have me eager for more books! Daphne is hands down my favorite character – an eccentric writer with an unfortunate penchant for swooning and/or whipping out her notepad to work out a scene at the most inappropriate times (like when she's supposed to be the lookout). But a more loyal friend you won't find … unless it's Phillip Villard or one of the other residents of Bleecker Street, including our heroine Gabriella.
The opening chapters are a hilarious introduction to Gabriella and her friends and the mayhem that is their dynamic. Not to mention the unexpected reunion with her long lost best friend and fellow former street thief (and our story's hero) Nicholas. You'll love Nicholas & Gabriella separately as individual characters but also as friends who have the potential to be so much more. Their chemistry is quite swoony (as is Nicholas) yet not without several hilarious moments as well. I really enjoyed how the author wrote their reconciliation with who they were in the past, who they are now – after everywhere life has taken them over the years – and who they aspire to be in the future. I also loved watching Nicholas pursue Gabriella with a patient intentionality and a tender twinkle in his eye, as though he knows a secret she isn't yet privy to.
Bottom Line: To Steal a Heart is true entertainment as only Jen Turano can provide! Part farce, part romantic comedy, it brings the Gilded Age world to life with plenty of laughter and even a few swoons. You'll run into some sweetly tender aspects to this story as well, along with a subtle-but-not-hidden faith message that is organic to these characters and their journeys. Perfect for fans of the author's other books, P. G. Wodehouse & Georgette Heyer. Can't wait for Daphne's story next – To Write a Wrong releases August 2021 (and how am I to wait that long?!?)
(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I purchased for my own collection.)
first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower ...more
Nov 14, 2020 Paula Shreckhise rated it it was amazing
Shelves: bethany-house, american-history, owned, for-review, influencer-street-team, read-in-2020, new-releases, historical-fiction, new-releases-2020, romance
With her signature comedy and cast of quirky characters, Ms. Turano once again gives us a delightful story. Add in a trope I love: past friends to more- with a twist and this is a winner. She packs it with fun elements such as Daphne, an author who does not go anywhere without a book and Winston, the one-eyed dog that you must talk to like a pirate and you have hilarious happenings.
What would an inquiry agency be without a mystery to solve? This one has several that come to a resolution despite With her signature comedy and cast of quirky characters, Ms. Turano once again gives us a delightful story. Add in a trope I love: past friends to more- with a twist and this is a winner. She packs it with fun elements such as Daphne, an author who does not go anywhere without a book and Winston, the one-eyed dog that you must talk to like a pirate and you have hilarious happenings.
What would an inquiry agency be without a mystery to solve? This one has several that come to a resolution despite the ineptitude of the agents. "Trepidation flowed freely when he saw Gabriella suddenly hurtle herself through the air, taking the person she had been chasing to the ground in a tangle of arms and legs."
The theme of repentance and turning your life around is woven through the story and a few characters attribute their changes and decisions to God.
I love that the author shows the civility of the era even when characters were in the midst of a quarrel or set down.
I can't wait to see which ladies will be featured in future books of the series.
* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.* ...more
Nov 20, 2020 Chautona Havig rated it it was amazing
Was This Book Really the Best I've Read by This Author?
Yes. Definitely. To Steal a Heart did something fabulous for me. This book made me a Jen Turano fan. Look, I've enjoyed other books by her, but I've never loved a book like this one. And when you consider a few quibbles that I should have with it, that's pretty impressive.
Laugh-out-loud funny (no, really. I cracked up all night long while I read it. No joke), the story kicks off as many of Turano's do… at a party. And what a party it was!
In Was This Book Really the Best I've Read by This Author?
In Turano's classic style, she's created some amazing characters. Gabby–brilliant. Look, this author took one of my pet peeves and thumbed her nose at it. I hate it when authors turn all the girls in historical novels into strong, independent women who don't care about conventions. But Jen Turano did it again, and again, she made me love what she did with it. She made the reasons believable even in their wacky improbability.
Did I roll my eyes at a guy from the 1880s telling a young lady to use "pirate speech" with his dog? Yeah! It felt insanely modern. Did I care? Nope. I was too busy cracking up at the whole scene (and taking a picture of the page and sharing with another author) to bother caring.
And that's what I'm talking about.
Sometimes, an author is just so good that she can break rules and blow raspberries at all my pet peeves and I don't even care. Because see, when you write such a great story with engaging characters and a sweet and subtle message woven in and left unstated in all the subtext, you can get away with that.
When you write a book that readers can't put down and with characters they can't wait to see again, you've done it. You've succeeded at your job. To Steal a Heart is recommended for anyone needing a good laugh, anyone who loves a fun mystery, and everyone who likes their fiction sprinkled with faith that sparks life in their hearts instead of choking the life out of the story. Not recommended for folks who like to be miserable. It's impossible to be miserable while reading To Steal a Heart.
In fact, I'd go so far as to say To Steal a Heart will steal your heart, but come on. That's about as cliche as you can get. (Psst… it will, though!) ...more
Nov 30, 2020 Kav rated it it was amazing · review of another edition
Bwahahahaha...just rollicking-snort-laughingly good! My absolute favourite Jen Turano novel yet and it's the first in her new Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency series and woohoo but there's a passel of quirky characters waiting at the sidelines for their turn to shine in their very own series and I can't wait!!!
Turano's unique blend of humour and faith shines through in this page-turning historical romance with surprising twists of intrigue and danger. It's mayhem and chaos punctuated with sharp tru Bwahahahaha...just rollicking-snort-laughingly good! My absolute favourite Jen Turano novel yet and it's the first in her new Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency series and woohoo but there's a passel of quirky characters waiting at the sidelines for their turn to shine in their very own series and I can't wait!!!
Turano's unique blend of humour and faith shines through in this page-turning historical romance with surprising twists of intrigue and danger. It's mayhem and chaos punctuated with sharp truths and sweet romance. And a hundred thousand giggles.
Gabrella is all fiery spirit and stalwart practicality while Nicholas is on the verge of making a really wrong decision for the most nonsensical of reasons but he's as driven as Gabriella is -- just in opposing ways. At first. But there's so much more to this social climber than meets the eye and watching him grapple with trying to merge his past with his present in order to create a hope-filled future was pure romantical bliss.
And then there's the boarding house full of independent ladies with unique talents...and endearing oddities. I'm beyond curious about their backstories! Love the way they work together to form an indomitable force of good.
The fast-paced plot is propelled by witty dialogue and so many one-line zingers that I left off reading with a perpetual smile on my face. Yes it's zany and over-the-top at times but that just adds to the overall charm.
I enjoyed the audible edition of To Steal a Heart. Andrea Emmes did justice to these lively characters and all their shenanigans! ...more
Oct 18, 2020 Susan Snodgrass rated it it was amazing
I have been a fan of Jen Turano since her very first book and each year eagerly look forward to her new book. She begins a new series with 'To Steal a Heart', one that promises to bring her fans a delightful read with each book in said series.
Turano is a master at creating ridiculously funny stories. The conversations between her characters will have you practically rolling the the floor laughing. I always find myself bursting out laughing numerous times during the reading of a Jen Turano book. I have been a fan of Jen Turano since her very first book and each year eagerly look forward to her new book. She begins a new series with 'To Steal a Heart', one that promises to bring her fans a delightful read with each book in said series.
Turano is a master at creating ridiculously funny stories. The conversations between her characters will have you practically rolling the the floor laughing. I always find myself bursting out laughing numerous times during the reading of a Jen Turano book. Seriously, I've laughed so hard I've scared my little dog and he ran. Her books are just so much FUN to read! The predicaments she gets her characters into are crazy and completely enjoyable to the reader. I am a forever fan! Highly recommended.
*My thanks to the Bethany House Publishers for a copy of this book via Net Galley. I was not compensated in any way and the opinions in this review are entirely my own. ...more
Oct 20, 2020 Emma rated it really liked it
Shelves: genre-historical-fiction, 2020-reads, read-on-kindle, review-copies
To Steal a Heart is a story of mystery, love, and wit.
Gabriella Goodhue and Nicholas Quinn have put their days of being street thieves far behind them... until their shared pasts brings them back together.
Two childhood friends find themselves reunited as they get involved in clearing the name of one innocent woman. As they are forced to work on the case together, will misunderstanding and their new lives in society hold them back from sharing their future?
I really enjoyed this story! I found t To Steal a Heart is a story of mystery, love, and wit.
I really enjoyed this story! I found the beginning a bit confusing but once I got all of the characters straight and got into the story, it was really enjoyable.
I love how unique each of the characters are. They all have distinct personalities and differences which makes it easier to remember them.
My favorite character has got to be Daphne so I am SO excited that the next book is about her! *happy dance* She was hilarious! And such a great sidekick.
The plot line was slightly slow sometimes but I actually enjoyed that for a change. While that's true, there was also quite a bit of action which keeps things moving! Either way, the characters kept me invested.
The fake identities and solving crime was just really fun (and funny) to read about!
And as usual, the humor was wonderful. I snickered and laughed several times. I just love Jen Turano's writing. It's so unique and witty!
So as a conclusion, it's a story that has mystery, wit, humor, friendship, and love.
And one I'd recommend!
*I would like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. ...more
Nov 16, 2020 Toni Shiloh rated it really liked it
Fans of Jen Turano will definitely want to add To Steal A Heart to their TBR piles. Filled with Ms. Turano's signature style of humor, To Steal A Heart will delight readers, especially considering the cast of characters.
Ms. Turano does a great job at each character adding to the story and I could imagine this as a play or a murder mystery type movie. I liked that Gabrielle wasn't your typical heroine, and for that fact, neither was Nicholas.
The twists and turns in the story will keep the reader Fans of Jen Turano will definitely want to add To Steal A Heart to their TBR piles. Filled with Ms. Turano's signature style of humor, To Steal A Heart will delight readers, especially considering the cast of characters.
The twists and turns in the story will keep the reader turning the page until the end.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. My review was not required nor influenced. ...more
Nov 17, 2020 Lucy rated it it was amazing
What a hoot this was as it had me laughing. I could imagine the scenarios The Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency found themselves in. I loved the joy it brought me amidst the serious subject of orphans and society rules. The characters had so many different personalities and secrets that were revealed were surprising. It showed that even when we think God has forgotten us that He has a plan and watching the pieces fall into place was like playing a game of Clue. This author is guaranteed to bring la What a hoot this was as it had me laughing. I could imagine the scenarios The Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency found themselves in. I loved the joy it brought me amidst the serious subject of orphans and society rules. The characters had so many different personalities and secrets that were revealed were surprising. It showed that even when we think God has forgotten us that He has a plan and watching the pieces fall into place was like playing a game of Clue. This author is guaranteed to bring laughter and love to life amid chaos with perfection. Now the hard part is waiting for the next book in the series to see what new predicaments these ladies find themselves entangled in. I recommend you get this on your TBR pile as soon as possible.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. The honest review and opinions are my own and were not required. ...more
Dec 27, 2020 Faye rated it it was amazing
Jen Turano is back with a brand new series, full of mystery, romance, and hilarious miscommunication!
When Gabriella's friend is falsely accused of a crime, she and her fellow boardinghouse members band together to clear the name of their friend. While on the case she comes face to face with a man that she never thought she'd see again, Nicholas Quinn, once an orphan like her who was adopted by a wealthy professor, and is now part of the dream of society. As they are thrown together in one case a Jen Turano is back with a brand new series, full of mystery, romance, and hilarious miscommunication!
When Gabriella's friend is falsely accused of a crime, she and her fellow boardinghouse members band together to clear the name of their friend. While on the case she comes face to face with a man that she never thought she'd see again, Nicholas Quinn, once an orphan like her who was adopted by a wealthy professor, and is now part of the dream of society. As they are thrown together in one case after another, their re-established friendship is tested, but could it be more?
A fast-paced, fun-filled read, with a full cast of colorful characters and lively interactions. The excellent pacing and great interaction between the characters, interlaced with hilarious misadventures keep the story from feeling episodic. I loved how the ladies of the boarding house all worked together, each bringing their own special skill set to the table, and I can't wait to get to know them better in future books!
Overall, a delightful, and highly entertaining read. I didn't want to put this book down. This books is not for people who take themselves too seriously, as it is just too much fun. Excellent start to what is sure to be a fantastic series!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. ...more
Nov 16, 2020 Loraine rated it really liked it
Shelves: kindle, adventure, cozy-mystery, romance, humorous, historical-fiction
Jen Turano is known for her humorous, historical romances and quirky characters, and her newest debut series begins with a book that doesn't disappoint. Gabriella Goodhue grew up on the streets stealing to make her way through life; but now in the late 1880's she is a seamstress living in a boardinghouse with a group of women. She loves to solve mysteries and help women who are having problems. But the Knickerbocker Bandit may put a stop to her future unless a friend from her childhood can help Jen Turano is known for her humorous, historical romances and quirky characters, and her newest debut series begins with a book that doesn't disappoint. Gabriella Goodhue grew up on the streets stealing to make her way through life; but now in the late 1880's she is a seamstress living in a boardinghouse with a group of women. She loves to solve mysteries and help women who are having problems. But the Knickerbocker Bandit may put a stop to her future unless a friend from her childhood can help her out.
Gabriella was so strong and independent, and I loved all her disguises that helped her find solutions to mysteries/problems. Her friend, Daphne, kept me in stitches between her constant note taking for her books and her continual fainting spells. Nicholas was definitely the perfect hero and learns that not all women want to be pampered and have choices made for them. Windsor, the one eyed dog who only answered when you spoke Pirate, the feisty, gem stealing parrot, and Precious, the poodle were humorous additions to the cast.
Another wonderful gem from Jen Turano, and I can't wait until the next book releases.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review. ...more
Oct 18, 2020 Cara Putman rated it really liked it
This book was such fun to read. Set in New York City near the turn of the century, Gabriella was a thief as a child, who was then abandoned to an orphanage. Now she is a seamstress who has to use her thieving skills to help a friend who's been falsely accused of a crime. With the "help" of her roommates at a boarding house, she tries to solve the crimes, but isn't prepared to have to work with the man who she believes abandoned her as a child. This story is filled with humor, romance, and the hi This book was such fun to read. Set in New York City near the turn of the century, Gabriella was a thief as a child, who was then abandoned to an orphanage. Now she is a seamstress who has to use her thieving skills to help a friend who's been falsely accused of a crime. With the "help" of her roommates at a boarding house, she tries to solve the crimes, but isn't prepared to have to work with the man who she believes abandoned her as a child. This story is filled with humor, romance, and the hint of more stories to come. I loved it! ...more
Sep 29, 2020 Melony rated it it was amazing
To Steal Her Heart is the first book in the Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency series. I'm looking forward to a lot more Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency shenanigans in this series. If this first book is any indication, we are in for much more fun and games, intrigue, and skulduggery. After growing up as an orphan, Gabriella Goodhue searches for a place of belonging and what she finds is unexpected. Her reunion with Nicholas Quinn, while she is breaking into a safe, sets things off. In search of the elu To Steal Her Heart is the first book in the Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency series. I'm looking forward to a lot more Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency shenanigans in this series. If this first book is any indication, we are in for much more fun and games, intrigue, and skulduggery. After growing up as an orphan, Gabriella Goodhue searches for a place of belonging and what she finds is unexpected. Her reunion with Nicholas Quinn, while she is breaking into a safe, sets things off. In search of the elusive Knickerbocker Bandit, the pair find out a lot more than they'd bargained for. Aside from their story, I loved getting to know the other characters in this full cast of quirky men and women, and dare I say, pets. As with all Turano books, this one had me giggling out loud. Another winner from Jen Turano.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley from the publisher. My opinion is my own. ...more
Nov 17, 2020 Kelly Bridgewater rated it it was amazing
Jen Turano. What can I say. She makes me laugh at her heroines or heroes in every story. I don't know how she does it, but I love reading her stories. I love how she centers majority of the them in New York city during the height of the rise of the Astors and the Vanderbilts populating the pages along her characters. With her latest story, To Steal a Heart, Turano jumps into women crime fighters. With being such a mystery lover, I couldn't wait to see how Turano was going to pull this off. Right Jen Turano. What can I say. She makes me laugh at her heroines or heroes in every story. I don't know how she does it, but I love reading her stories. I love how she centers majority of the them in New York city during the height of the rise of the Astors and the Vanderbilts populating the pages along her characters. With her latest story, To Steal a Heart, Turano jumps into women crime fighters. With being such a mystery lover, I couldn't wait to see how Turano was going to pull this off. Right from the beginning of the story, Turano puts her heroine and hero in an awkward situation that has be laughing and anxiously flipping the pages to see what hysterics Turano is going to throw her characters into. There is no other writer like Turano. She is a wonderful storyteller and a delightful writer. With each of her new cover reveals, I always can't wait to get my hand on that book. With To Steal a Heart, Turano stays true to her genre and personality. Can't wait to read more!
I received a complimentary copy of To Steal a Heart by Jen Turano from Bethany House Publishers, but the opinions stated are all my own. ...more
Nov 19, 2020 Anne rated it really liked it
In classic Turano fashion, To Steal a Heart is a funny, heartwarming tale filled with mystery and slightly (okay, maybe more than slightly) crazy antics. I do enjoy the way this author is able to combine unfortunate circumstances and comedy to a degree that I never feel too overwhelmed by emotions. It's entertainment, pure and simple.
Because this is the first book in a new series, there are a lot of characters. Even though I had a little trouble keeping them all straight in my head, I still rec In classic Turano fashion, To Steal a Heart is a funny, heartwarming tale filled with mystery and slightly (okay, maybe more than slightly) crazy antics. I do enjoy the way this author is able to combine unfortunate circumstances and comedy to a degree that I never feel too overwhelmed by emotions. It's entertainment, pure and simple.
Because this is the first book in a new series, there are a lot of characters. Even though I had a little trouble keeping them all straight in my head, I still recommend this to fans of historical fiction.
I received a copy from the author and publisher. No compensation has been received.
Nov 03, 2020 Erin Laramore rated it it was amazing
Another great historical novel from Jen Turano! As is typical with her books, the hilarity was ever-flowing. This book follows Gabriella, a girl who grew up on the streets and an orphanage. Though she made a respectable living, when another member of her boardinghouse was accused of theft, the ladies of the Bleaker Street boardinghouse put their heads together to catch the actual thief. Gabriella's past talents as a safe-cracker are called upon and in the process, she comes back in contact with Another great historical novel from Jen Turano! As is typical with her books, the hilarity was ever-flowing. This book follows Gabriella, a girl who grew up on the streets and an orphanage. Though she made a respectable living, when another member of her boardinghouse was accused of theft, the ladies of the Bleaker Street boardinghouse put their heads together to catch the actual thief. Gabriella's past talents as a safe-cracker are called upon and in the process, she comes back in contact with Nicholas, her former "partner in crime" (literally). What ensues is a great deal of mystery, fun and laughter as they attempt to continue seeking after the recurring thief. I had my suspicions on who the villain was, though I was still surprised by how everything played out. My favorite type of romance novels teach me about history, make me laugh and include a good mystery. Ms. Turano does such a splendid job of that! This one also had a solid faith thread as Gabriella came to see how God had not abandoned her, but had actually been with her through the years. The characters were delightful and the story line intriguing. This is one I would highly recommend to fans of inspirational historical romance, particularly with a comedic thread. Special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-copy of this book. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own. ...more
Nov 10, 2020 MJSH rated it really liked it
Shelves: book-tours, read-2020, bethany-house-publishing, historical
"Another bizarre turn to what is becoming a very strange night."
What a fun and surprisingly unique book! I was totally expecting a well-written, hilarious historical fiction set in the Gilded Age of America (which the author is known for), but this book was so much more. Filled with intrigue, mystery, a group of secondary characters who are absolutely ridiculous and lovable, and a wonderful theme of looking at the heart and not the outside of a person, this book clearly demonstrates why Jen Tura "Another bizarre turn to what is becoming a very strange night."
What a fun and surprisingly unique book! I was totally expecting a well-written, hilarious historical fiction set in the Gilded Age of America (which the author is known for), but this book was so much more. Filled with intrigue, mystery, a group of secondary characters who are absolutely ridiculous and lovable, and a wonderful theme of looking at the heart and not the outside of a person, this book clearly demonstrates why Jen Turano is such a beloved author of historical fiction.
I enjoyed getting to know Gabriella, a reformed thief who is sassy, impulsive, headstrong, temperamental but also loving and loyal. Nicholas is her former partner in crime and best friend who is now a high society gentleman of means and his gentle sweetness and protectiveness are endearing. Though they start off on the wrong foot during an unexpected reunion, they keep getting thrown together. As Gabriella and her housemates form Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency to solve mysteries and grievances throughout NYC, Nicholas and his friends become further and further involved in the welfare of the ladies of the Agency. There is plenty of humor and adventure from the start and the plot moves at a quick pace with quite a few surprises thrown along the way. A jewelry thief, plotting and vicious society matrons, and questions about Gabriella and Nicholas' parentage will have you scrambling to figure out the pieces of this fantastic puzzle. It's a great start to her new series and I can't wait to see what the author has in store for the next book.
I received a copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own. ...more
Nov 13, 2020 Diane Estrella rated it really liked it
Another winner from this favorite author of mine. The stage is definitely set for a most interesting series. The players are assembled and the antics are sure to ensue!
Since I've read all of her books, I have to nit-pick on what makes this one different than her others. Less of a God element, if that is important to you. He was mentioned but not as strong of an influence. Also, more of the underbelly of life in the 1880's, including illegitimate children, prostitution mentioned, and definitely a Another winner from this favorite author of mine. The stage is definitely set for a most interesting series. The players are assembled and the antics are sure to ensue!
Since I've read all of her books, I have to nit-pick on what makes this one different than her others. Less of a God element, if that is important to you. He was mentioned but not as strong of an influence. Also, more of the underbelly of life in the 1880's, including illegitimate children, prostitution mentioned, and definitely a "bad guy" that seemed bad-der than usual.
Still however, a great book with wonderful characters. I guess my one critique would be for the mystery portion to have been even more of a mystery to solve. This was the perfect opportunity to really keep me guessing, but it wasn't over the top investigating.
I bought this book myself, and for me, directly from Baker Publishing Group. Hooray! ...more
Nov 21, 2020 Lu rated it it was amazing
Shelves: netgalley, owned-advanced-reading-copy
An adventurous, romantic, and inspirational story. Great read!
Gabriella and Nicholas were urchins in the streets of New York in the late 1800s. They had to steal for a man that gave them shelter in return.
Gabriella dressed as a boy to avoid unwanted attention, and Nicholas was very protective of her. They were the best of friends.
One day, Gabriella was caught during one of their 'missions' and was sent to an orphanage. She waited and waited for Nicholas to come for her, but he never came.
Several An adventurous, romantic, and inspirational story. Great read!
Several years later, Gabriella and Nicholas met again in a very awkward situation. They were both trespassing on someone's house, trying to open a safe.
Things were not what they seem to be, and Gabriella was surprised to find Nicholas transformed into a wealthy gentleman while she was a mere seamstress living in a boarding house.
The story is lovely. Nicholas is conflicted between his love for Gabriella and his 'uncle's' and society's expectations. Gabriella was still hurt that he never came for her but loved him too deeply to begrudge his good fortune.
Apart from Nick and Gabe's romance, there were some adventurous and enchanting side stories with lovely supporting characters.
The ladies who live in the boarding house with Gabe were charming, particularly Daphne, a shy and observing woman who was actually a very famous writer.
I love that the ladies decided to use their many talents to open the Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency to help women deal with their troubles. I can't wait to read the next books in the series. I am especially curious to learn what keeps Eunice, the boarding house's young owner, from casting away her mourning attire.
I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
*For more reviews, book art, and book-related articles, please visit https://lureviewsbooks.com * ...more
Oct 17, 2020 Abbi rated it it was amazing
This harkened back to the early Jen Turano and I absolutely loved it! I have been a fan of her's since she debuted but for me the last couple series have been heading a little bit too far down the over the top side of things. They've still been fun reads but I wasn't loving them as much. So I was so excited to start this one and see that it was a lot more like her first books! I loved that Gabriella and Nicholas were both intelligent types and were both pretty straightforward. They didn't have a This harkened back to the early Jen Turano and I absolutely loved it! I have been a fan of her's since she debuted but for me the last couple series have been heading a little bit too far down the over the top side of things. They've still been fun reads but I wasn't loving them as much. So I was so excited to start this one and see that it was a lot more like her first books! I loved that Gabriella and Nicholas were both intelligent types and were both pretty straightforward. They didn't have a lot of blundering about with each other and I loved seeing that their connection stayed strong despite the many years they were separated. They may have just been children when last they saw each other but they had a tight bond and it allowed them to pick right back up (after clearing a few things up) where they'd left off. Their romance wasn't all that prominent, it was more of a friendship that suddenly realized they wanted more and I actually liked it and thought it worked well for these characters.
There was a large cast of supporting characters that I enjoyed (a certain one annoyed me a little at the start but I got over it) and I liked seeing all the different personalities come together.
The mysteries were fun to follow along with and there were definitely some twists.
This book was everything that caused me to fall in love with Turano's writing in the first place and I hope she keeps it up!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. ...more
Nov 20, 2020 Nicole rated it it was amazing
Shelves: loved, virtual-bookshelf, historical-fiction, clear-the-shelves
Can Jen Turano write a bad story?! The answer is an emphatic, "NO! No, she cannot." To Steal a Heart is fantastic. Here are all the reasons I love this book and why you should purchase a copy ASAP:
***The women at the Bleeker Street boardinghouse. Each one is unique and quirky in her own right, and they all bring the funny. I laughed out loud so many times at their antics I lost count. The best thing about these women though is their loyalty to one another. These women will literally do anything, Can Jen Turano write a bad story?! The answer is an emphatic, "NO! No, she cannot." To Steal a Heart is fantastic. Here are all the reasons I love this book and why you should purchase a copy ASAP:
***The women at the Bleeker Street boardinghouse. Each one is unique and quirky in her own right, and they all bring the funny. I laughed out loud so many times at their antics I lost count. The best thing about these women though is their loyalty to one another. These women will literally do anything, and I do mean anything, to help each other out. In a day where neighbors are turning on neighbors, it was so refreshing to read a story where a group of women from all walks of life comes together to support rather than tear down.
***The tension — this story is surprisingly tense in so many ways! There's romantic tension between Gabriella and Nicholas. There's tension between the classes. There's tension among the upper elites. There's tension between men and women. There's tension between the good guys and the bad guys. There's even romantic tension between two doggies (I'm not kidding — it's adorable). The tension is so well written in this novel I could not stop turning pages.
***The relationship between Gabriella and Nicholas. The chemistry between these two characters is evident from their first interaction. When they first meet it has been many, many years since they last saw one another, and, boy, do they have a lot to learn about each other. I very much enjoyed their journey back to friendship. And, I love how their old friendship blossoms into new friendship into a very sweet romance. To me, it is all very realistic and just perfect! The fun interplay between Gabriella and Nicholas had me smiling the whole time.
***The bad guy is BAD. I'm talking skin-crawling bad. I was captivated by the chapters he's in because I needed to know how Gabriella and Nicholas were going to get out of his grips. This bad guy may be one of the best bad guys I've ever read.
***The message. Sometimes it feels like God is a million miles away. Sometimes it seems like He works a lot in some people's lives but neglects others. Of course, this is not true. Feelings can be deceptive. Gabriella has had a lot of bad in her life. It 100% feels like God isn't around for her. But when she looks back on her past and the path she's taken it's very clear God has been there the whole time. We, humans, get so caught up in the NOW that we often forget to pause, take a breath, and reflect. I find that when I do reflect on my own past I can clearly see God in every step I've ever taken. This is a great reminder for all of us!
There really is so much to love about To Steal a Heart. I could go on and on with my praise! Jen Turano hit this one out of the park. I highly, highly recommend this outstanding Historical Rom-Com.
I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the author, Jen Turano, via Celebrate Lit. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own. ...more
Nov 19, 2020 Tressa (Wishful Endings) rated it really liked it
Shelves: netgalley, christian, 2020, historical-fiction
TO STEAL A HEART is a hilarious ride about women at a boarding house who form an investigative service with the main characters being childhood friends who rediscover each other after years apart. A story with unique characters, awkward and humorous antics, high society pitted against the lower class, and a star-crossed romance. Recommended to fans of the author, and those looking for a something that will make them laugh but is also sweet.
I liked Gabriella and Nicholas from the start, as well a TO STEAL A HEART is a hilarious ride about women at a boarding house who form an investigative service with the main characters being childhood friends who rediscover each other after years apart. A story with unique characters, awkward and humorous antics, high society pitted against the lower class, and a star-crossed romance. Recommended to fans of the author, and those looking for a something that will make them laugh but is also sweet.
I liked Gabriella and Nicholas from the start, as well as Daphne who is so quirky she easily stands out. Then there were the other ladies at the boarding house, although Eunice is the one that most intrigues me. I know there's quite a secret there since she tries to hide from the public. Each of the characters are quite unique and complex, so it was easy to keep them all separate in my mind. This isn't something that all authors are successful at, so I applaud Turano for being able to do so.
I did feel there could have been a bit more depth in regards to Gabriella's and Nicholas's backgrounds and the plight of the other women, but this story isn't meant to make readers cry. It is mostly a riot of laughs, awkwardness, dangerous antics, societal drama, and sweet romance. I loved how Gabriella and Nicholas became reacquainted, moved to developing a deeper friendship, and then the possibility of more. It was sweet and unhurried. I also liked that the characters had their own challenges and each developed a bit from the start of the story to the end, particularly Nicholas who was faced with reanalyzing his station in life. There was a touch of inspiration, but not much, so I think this would work for both Christian and non-Christian readers.
In the end, was it what I wished for? Overall, this was another delightful story from this author and the start to a series with future books promising to deliver the same. An entertaining story from beginning to end. I'm very much looking forward to learning more about the other ladies involved in The Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency!
Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Celebrate Lit, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own. ...more
Nov 25, 2020 Mimi rated it really liked it
Oh my gosh, this story was AMAZING! As a reader, you know from the first page that this is going to be such a fun book. lol Things are going to go amiss and we're all just along for the ride.
And once again, Jen Turano does NOT disappoint! To Steal a Heart had me in stitches. Gabriella is just trying to help one of the gals at her boarding house find out what really happened to some jewels. Unfortunately, her sidekick/lookout/partner, Daphne isn't quite suited to detective work. hahaha You find o Oh my gosh, this story was AMAZING! As a reader, you know from the first page that this is going to be such a fun book. lol Things are going to go amiss and we're all just along for the ride.
And once again, Jen Turano does NOT disappoint! To Steal a Heart had me in stitches. Gabriella is just trying to help one of the gals at her boarding house find out what really happened to some jewels. Unfortunately, her sidekick/lookout/partner, Daphne isn't quite suited to detective work. hahaha You find out why rather quickly!
Not only that, we meet Nicholas almost as quickly! In one evening, the lives of so many people are dashed off into a new direction and we're all in for quite a bit of excitement. It was actually rather fun seeing how The Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency gets its start. I love how the ladies all come together for common goals.
We also start to see the different layers of Gabriella. We start to see where she's come from and how she got to where she is now. And the supporting cast of this story is also SO much apart of unfolding who she is. And I ADORE the extra characters: Eunice (please, Jen, let us know more about her), Daphne, Monsieur Villard, Rookwood, and so many more. And honestly, that's just skimming the surface because there are a lot of vital characters in this story!!
I loved how the story flowed as we follow Gabriella and Daphne on their inquiry trails. As they take up the causes of women around them, it's a battle of wits! Of course, Nicholas finds himself joining in and it only makes the events even more fun!
As with any Jen Turano book there's also the more serious side of the book where relationships are tested and villains are brought to light. I loved Nicholas and Gabriella working their way through him finding a wife while they try to iron out their past, which surprisingly uncovers more in the present. I'm telling you, this story keeps you turning the page to find out what mess they've gotten themselves into as well as reading their banter!
I'm already over the moon for Daphne's story and I've only seen the cover of it!! I can't wait!
*As part of Jen's launch team I received her book for review. This is my opinion of the story. ...more
Dec 22, 2020 Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective) rated it it was amazing
Shelves: historical, favorites-of-2020, cover-love, secondary-characters-to-love, friendships, comical, romance
**Sigh** Turano is one of my favorites. She has such a gift for writing and I'm so very thankful for that! Her stories make me laugh out loud, and sometimes snort a little. I don't know how she comes up with the lines that she does, but they are wonderful!
First I have to applaud Turano's secondary character Daphne. She was such a joy to read (I can't wait to read her story). The way she would just watch her surroundings and want to take notes for her own future novels was hilarious. But of cours **Sigh** Turano is one of my favorites. She has such a gift for writing and I'm so very thankful for that! Her stories make me laugh out loud, and sometimes snort a little. I don't know how she comes up with the lines that she does, but they are wonderful!
First I have to applaud Turano's secondary character Daphne. She was such a joy to read (I can't wait to read her story). The way she would just watch her surroundings and want to take notes for her own future novels was hilarious. But of course, she couldn't come out and say she was the author, which made for some even more delightful scenes.
But don't worry, our leading hero and heroine are just as wonderful! Their chemistry was *um yeah** pretty good lol. Scratch that. It was on fire! I love banter between leading characters, and theirs was perfectly written, timed with precision, and had me turning the pages as fast as I could. They each had their own journey to go on during the chapters of this novel, and it was nice to see their journey both separately, and together. Many times I want to just see the couple grow together, but Gabe and Nicholas were also wonderful apart.
I could read Turano's books all day long, all year long. They are so delightful, a good way to put a smile on my face in spite of the circumstances surrounding me. And although there is a long wait for the next installment, I know it will be well worth the time. I highly recommend you dive into this fabulous new series! I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ...more
Nov 30, 2020 Lori rated it it was amazing
This fun read deserves 5 stars and more!
I loved this read because it made me laugh out loud in various places.
I love Turano's sense of humor and it shows through her writing to make us readers laugh out loud and enjoy her characters' adventures.
Gabriella is a delightful character and has a determined personality that readers will come to love just as I have.
If any of you are late night readers then you'll know what I'm talking about. This is definitely a stay up all night read. This book is so g This fun read deserves 5 stars and more!
If any of you are late night readers then you'll know what I'm talking about. This is definitely a stay up all night read. This book is so good that I wanted to finish Gabriella and Nicholas's story. It's so worth the read!
I love history especially the 1800's but the setting here is 1886. I love learning about how things get started and how Turano brings it to life. I like seeing how life was like in 1886.
She does an excellent job in drawing people into her stories
It enables me to escape today's world.
This book offers our characters' hope through the book.
I love how Turano reminds us and her people in the stories that she writes that God has not left us in vain. She reminds also that He has a plan for each one of us and is watching over us.
I highly recommend this book. You'll be delighted to meet up with Gabriella and Nicholas.
I so can't wait for the next book!
I'm now a forever fan of Turano's books!
My thanks for an ecopy of this book.
I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own. ...more
Nov 30, 2020 Hallie Szott rated it really liked it
Shelves: books-for-review, owned-books
To help a fellow boardinghouse resident, Gabriella Goodhue pulls out skills from her past as a street thief—and soon encounters the friend from that past she hoped never to see again, Nicholas Quinn. Their circumstances may have veered in drastically different directions since parting, but present circumstances continue to throw them together to face mystery, intrigue, danger, and even romance.
Jen Turano's To Steal a Heart, which starts her Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency series, is delightful. It To help a fellow boardinghouse resident, Gabriella Goodhue pulls out skills from her past as a street thief—and soon encounters the friend from that past she hoped never to see again, Nicholas Quinn. Their circumstances may have veered in drastically different directions since parting, but present circumstances continue to throw them together to face mystery, intrigue, danger, and even romance.
Jen Turano's To Steal a Heart, which starts her Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency series, is delightful. It has all the charm and fun I expect from her novels, as well as characters I easily loved and enjoyed. I especially appreciated seeing both Gabriella and Nicholas accept the truths of their pasts in ways that allow them to more fittingly embrace their futures.
I cannot wait to revisit these characters again with Daphne's story in To Write a Wrong! In the meantime, historical-romance readers, definitely pick up To Steal a Heart.
This review is also posted on Hallie Reads.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own. ...more
Nov 18, 2020 Melissa rated it it was amazing
Shelves: 2020-audios
Jen has penned another wonderfully funny story in "To Steal A Heart." I thoroughly enjoyed this latest story from Jen, where we meet Gabriella and Nicolas. What a hoot these two are when they get together! I laughed at countless times throughout the story. Jen does humor REALLY well. The story was fun with great characters that we will see in the rest of the books in this series and let me tell you, I can't wait for those stories. There is a reason Jen's books continuously top my favorites list- Jen has penned another wonderfully funny story in "To Steal A Heart." I thoroughly enjoyed this latest story from Jen, where we meet Gabriella and Nicolas. What a hoot these two are when they get together! I laughed at countless times throughout the story. Jen does humor REALLY well. The story was fun with great characters that we will see in the rest of the books in this series and let me tell you, I can't wait for those stories. There is a reason Jen's books continuously top my favorites list-she writes stories with humor, fantastic characters and a great plot and she NEVER misses. I truly love her books and this one is one of her very best! Read it-I can all but promise you won't be disappointed!
I received this book as a member of the launch team but I also purchased my own Audible copy as well. All thoughts are my honest opinion. ...more
Nov 20, 2020 Connie Saunders rated it it was amazing
The first chapter of To Steal a Heart had me laughing out loud and the fun continued as young women in a New York City boarding house set out to prove the innocence of a friend accused of theft. After police consider the case solved, Gabriella, Daphne, and Eunice become wanna-be detectives and they're soon aided by a man who was Gabriella's childhood friend. Suddenly, another intriguing element is added to the picture, as Gabriella and Nicholas recall the special bond they shared as children and The first chapter of To Steal a Heart had me laughing out loud and the fun continued as young women in a New York City boarding house set out to prove the innocence of a friend accused of theft. After police consider the case solved, Gabriella, Daphne, and Eunice become wanna-be detectives and they're soon aided by a man who was Gabriella's childhood friend. Suddenly, another intriguing element is added to the picture, as Gabriella and Nicholas recall the special bond they shared as children and experience a rekindling of their affection for each other. The story that follows has a mixture of unusual characters, dangerous activities, heartwarming discoveries, and the promise of sweet romance.
When I see that Jen Turano has written a new book, I immediately associate it with fun and laughter and this book certainly met my expectations. This is the first book in The Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency and I look forward to seeing what's ahead for these quirky women detectives. I highly recommend To Steal a Heart to all who enjoy historical romantic fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was never required and no monetary compensation was given. These are my own thoughts. ...more
Nov 22, 2020 Cathy rated it it was amazing
Loved this book so much! Definitely Jen Turano's best book to date! Sometimes her books feel a little similar and a little too slapstick. Not so with this one. Unique plot, twists and turns I honestly didn't expect, great characters, fun plot. Humorous but not slap stick. I just really loved the set up and can't wait to read more in this new series!
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Historical > Historical Fiction
Romance > Christian Romance
Romance > Historical Romance
About Jen Turano
Jen Turano
Named One of the Funniest Voices in Inspirational Romance by Booklist, Jen Turano is a USA Today Best-Selling Author, known for penning quirky historical romances set in the Gilded Age. Her books have earned Publisher Weekly and Booklist starred reviews, top picks from Romantic Times, and praise from Library Journal. She's been a finalist twice for the RT Reviewers' Choice Awards and had two of he
Named One of the Funniest Voices in Inspirational Romance by Booklist, Jen Turano is a USA Today Best-Selling Author, known for penning quirky historical romances set in the Gilded Age. Her books have earned Publisher Weekly and Booklist starred reviews, top picks from Romantic Times, and praise from Library Journal. She's been a finalist twice for the RT Reviewers' Choice Awards and had two of her books listed in the top 100 romances of the past decade from Booklist. When she's not writing, she spends her time outside of Denver, CO. Readers may find her at www.jenturano.com - https://www.facebook.com/jenturanoaut... , https://www.instagram.com/jenturanoau... or on Twitter at JenTurano@JenTurano.
Other books in the series
The Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency (2 books)
Books by Jen Turano
The Most Anticipated Books of 2021
Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, 2020 will be long remembered as a Dumpster fire of a year. But the nice thing about time is that it...
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Trivia About To Steal a Heart ...
Quotes from To Steal a Heart
"You used to possess a semblance of intelligence, Nicholas, some of which I would hope you still have." — 1 likes
"OPENING LINE "It was becoming evident that she, Miss Gabriella Goodhue, might very well be arrested in the not-too-distant future, and all because she'd convinced herself that sneaking into a high-society costume ball would be a relatively easy feat, given her past life as a street thief." — 0 likes

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Published On: Fri, Apr 3rd, 2020
Latest News / News | By Ibrahim Imam
Maj.-Gen. Yahaya Takes Over As Theartre Commander Operation Lafiya Dole
Maj.-Gen. Farouq Yahaya on Friday took over as the new Theater Commander of Operation Lafiya Dole (OPLD) in Maiduguri.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Yahaya took over from Maj.-Gen. Olusegun Adeniyi, who was redeployed to the Nigerian Army Resource Centre as Senior Research Fellow.
In a brief ceremony, at the Military Control and Command headquarters in Maiduguri, Yahaya was presented with the Command flag by his predecessor after signing the hand-over and take-over notes.
In his remark, the new commander sought cooperation of all the components in the theater to enable him succeed in the ongoing operations against insurgency in the Northeast.
"I solicit the support of all the components in the theater; I am talking about Maritime, Air Force and other security agencies to enable us achieve total peace and sanity in the Northeast", Yahaya said
Ibrahim Imam -


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Rafajovce este o comună slovacă, aflată în districtul Vranov nad Topľou din regiunea Prešov. Localitatea se află la , se întinde pe o suprafață de  și în 2017 număra 183 de locuitori.

Istoric
Localitatea Rafajovce este atestată documentar din 1557.

Note

Legături externe

Localități din Slovacia

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


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Casa Honoré—luxury designer bed and breakfast in Marseille
Casa Honoré is a luxury designer bed and breakfast in Marseille, by the seaside between the Old Port and the Saint-Victor neighborhood.
Casa Honoré is a unique setting: a former print shop whose huge skylight now covers a patio and pool. The rooms are arranged around this enclosed garden, like a Moroccan riad. The voyage begins when you enter the Casa, whose décor draws its inspiration from a mix of Mediterranean cultures. In these elegant surroundings, time slows, from the busy rhythms of the city outside, to the quiet languor of the patio-pool. Annick Lestrohan, who created the Honoré brand, receives her guests herself.
Casa Honoré, a blend of chic and the south of France, for those who enjoy the good life in an ambiance of relaxed luxury.
Casa Honoré
4 rooms with air conditioning, TV, CD players.
Every room has a view of the pool
Free Wi-Fi in the rooms and common areas
Parking in the nearby Hôtel de Ville parking structure, which is guarded and closed at night
Near Casa Honoré
Numerous restaurants near Casa Honoré
Saint-Victor district, Panier district (where the Vieille Charité Museum presents cultural expositions)
Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica
Boats leave for visits to the Château d'If from the Old Port of Marseille (30mn boat trip)
Marseille-Provence was voted Capital of Culture in 2013 (http://www.marseille-provence2013.fr)
13007 Marseille (Bouches-du-Rhône)
Marseille-Marignane airport: 25km (22mn)
Toulon: 65km (50mn)
Nîmes: 120km (1h30)
Montpellier: 170km (2h)
Cannes: 180km (2h)
Italy (border): 240km (2h30)
Lyon: 315km (3h30)
Spain (border): 340km (3h30)
Room C and D


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Charles Oakley sues Knicks owner James Dolan, Madison Square Garden
Former New York Knicks enforcer Charles Oakley filed a federal lawsuit on Tuesday in New York against Knicks owner James Dolan, Madison Square Garden and MSG Networks for defamation, assault, false imprisonment and violations to the Americans with Disabilities Act over his treatment at a game earlier this year.
In a 21-page complaint -- which often read like the back of a trading card with Oakley's career highlights listed in detail -- the former Knicks forward seeks unspecified damages and requests a jury trial.
The lawsuit stems from Oakley's confrontation with MSG security during a Knicks-Los Angeles Clippers game on Feb. 8 that eventually led to Oakley's arrest on four misdemeanors (three counts of assault and one count of trespassing).
A statement released on behalf of The Madison Square Garden Company said: "This is a frivolous lawsuit and nothing more than another attempt by Mr. Oakley to garner attention. We will deal with this accordingly."
The Americans with Disabilities Act claim targets Dolan's statements on ESPN Radio two days after the incident, when Dolan said that Oakley "may have a problem with alcohol."
Follow every game: Latest NBA Scores and Schedules
"Mr. Oakley has never had a problem with excessive anger nor has he ever abused alcohol or any other drug," the lawsuit states.
The suit claims that Dolan and MSG have caused irreparable harm to Oakley, "discriminated against him based on the false perception that he is an alcoholic."
More NBA:Proposal for NBA draft lottery reform to disincentivize tanking, set even odds for worst teams
All good:Ex-Celtics Paul Pierce and Ray Allen 'bury the hatchet' after five-year rift
Oakley agreed to adjournment in contemplation of dismissal in a deal with prosecutors last month, which will lead the charges to be dropped if there are no new arrests over the next six months. As part of the deal, Oakley agreed not to enter MSG for one year.
PHOTOS: Best of 2017 NBA rookie photo shoot


Lodging an objection does not remove or defer your land tax liability, and payment of your assessment is still required by the due date.
If you consider that your assessment of land tax is incorrect (apart from the valuation of land), you may lodge an objection against the assessment. See our Objection and Review web page for more information.
(08) 9262 1500 as it may be possible to resolve your enquiry over the phone.
state fully and in detail the grounds of your objection.
For more information about the valuation of land, see the information under Your Assessment.
Before lodging an objection against a land valuation, you should contact Landgate Valuations and Property Analytics on (08) 9273 7373 as it may be possible to resolve your enquiry over the phone.
state fully the grounds of your objection with detailed supporting reasons and provide a daytime contact number.
See the Landgate website for further information or to download either a guide to valuations or an objection form.


Consumer credit scores have been artificially inflated over the past decade and are masking the real danger the riskiest borrowers pose to hundreds of billions of dollars of debt.
Car loans, retail credit cards and personal loans handed out online are the most exposed to the inflated scores, according to DeRitis. This kind of debt totals around $400 billion, with nearly $100 billion bundled into securities that have been sold to investors, data compiled by Bloomberg show.
Fair Isaac Corp. created its FICO credit score product in 1989, and it's still used by more than 90% of U.S. lenders to predict whether a would-be borrower is an acceptable risk. Most scores range from 300 to 850, with a higher score purporting to show that someone is more likely to pay back debts. A competitor, VantageScore, was created in 2006 by the three major credit raters Experian, TransUnion and Equifax.
In February, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York said the number of auto loans at least 90 days late exceeded 7 million at the end of last year, the highest total in the two decades that the data have been tracked. Meanwhile, the subprime segment of auto-loan asset-backed securities has seen 30-day delinquencies rise 81% since 2011, driven by looser underwriting because of rising competition among lenders, according to S&P Global Ratings.
Marketplace lending — loans handed out online — has been flashing signs of stress. Missed payments by consumers and write-downs for online loans bundled into bonds increased last year, according to PeerIQ, a New York-based provider of data and analytics for the consumer lending sector.
Russell-Dowe also avoids the retail credit card sector. So-called private label credit cards -- those issued by stores, rather than big banks — saw the highest number of missed payments in seven years in 2018, according to credit bureau Equifax.


"I want to do the biggest party and make it super joyful" Isabel Marant said moments before her party for her Isabel Marant for H&M Collection kicked off in Paris last night. Actress Freida Pinto, January Jones, Audrey Tautou, Olga Kurylenko, and top model Alex Wek were just a few of the celebrity guests who joined Marant at the Tennis Club de Paris to celebrate the launch of her capsule collection that hits H&M stores worldwide on November 14th.
The bohemian style party had a 90's atmosphere with live music performance by Grandmaster Melle Mel and Rappers Delight, originally of Sugarhill Gang. Isabel Marant grew up in Paris and explained that she wanted that kind of a vibe for the party because "I love urban rap – it's what I grew up on and I thought it would be fun to share this".


The Open Society Institute & Soros Foundations Network launched the Roma Culture Initiative (RCI) in 1999. The RCI focuses on supporting Roma in their efforts toward self-reliance and providing the general population in Central and Eastern Europe with informed material about the Roma culture. Who We Were, Who We Are captures the culture of the Kosovar Roma through their holiday celebrations, traditional music and weddings along with their place within the political and educational infrustructure of Kosovo.
Kosovar Roma Wedding Traditions- including information on engagements, the marimé code and bride-prices.
Kosovar Roma Music- sample songs, video footage and song lyrics from Kosovo & Macedonia.
Kosovar Roma Holidays- Djurdjevdan/ Herdeljez, Vasilica, Slavas, World Roma Day & others.
Kosovar Roma Politics- brief notes on 'Roma Leader' positions and the failure of Roma politicians in Kosovo.
Kosovar Roma Education Issues- brief notes on the current, dismal state of Roma education in Kosovo.


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you are here: HomeNewsTrendsFeatures
Tippling Point | Ballantine is a popular drink. Here's its story
The origins of Ballantine, voted Europe's No 1 Scotch whisky and also World's Best Blended Scotch 2020, traces back to the early 1800s.
Manu Remakant
February 20, 2021 / 11:49 AM IST
It all began on a fine morning in 1822 when Archibald Ballantine, a Scottish farmer, took his son George in a horse-drawn cart to Edinburgh. The young boy was shaking nervously in his stiff collar, with a travel bag clutched tightly in his arm. The father and son had an important appointment. The lawyer they had to meet in the town would help them sign papers apprenticing the young boy to Andrew Hunter for the next five years.
Who was Andrew Hunter? No big fish you should want to know in detail, but he was an Edinburgh grocer and dealer in wines and spirits. Enough to set a talent in motion, history would say.
As the young boy signed the papers none could imagine they were witnessing the birth of one of the legends in the spirit industry. Meanwhile much more interesting things were happening in Scotland. The practice and long tradition of illicit whisky distilling in Scotland to evade the ever-escalating taxes imposed by the British were finally coming to an end with the introduction of a fairer system of licensing.
As a token of change Edinburgh witnessed the ceremonial visit of King George IV, with an intention to make peace with Scotland. Legal distilleries now began to mushroom everywhere across the Scottish landscape.
Working hard with his master Andrew Hunter, the young boy George grew, carrying sacks of flour, oats, and dried goods gradually acquiring expert knowledge on how a good whisky could be made. As the apprenticeship came to an end he emerged as an ambitious young man all set to become an efficient entrepreneur, as 'certified' by Hunter.
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It was at the age of 19 George set up a new grocery store in Cowgate, a low-key area in Edinburgh. That was all his savings could afford. Meanwhile, the world of whisky distilling was undergoing some serious revolutions. Cutting-edge developments in stills resulted in finer whiskies that weaned in more people from gin and other liquors.
In 1831, George set up his second shop in nearby Candlemaker's Row. By then, 23-year old George had already built a reputation in the field. Living in rented accommodation he focused all his energy on developing his company attracting more and more local customers to taste his wares. He moved to the more prestigious South Bridge (when he got to 28), where the demand for refined whiskies was more vocal. George stuck to his basics and his establishment began to witness eminent writers, scholars, medical men, academics pouring in. The town was now talking about George's shop.
As his business prospered, George married Isabella Mann, the daughter of an Inverness grain merchant and moved into a large house in George Square.
Meanwhile, there were debates raging in the country on what whisky should really be. There was no legislation defining a Scotch whisky. It was around that time George's friend Andrew Usher, a fellow Edinburgh spirit merchant succeeded in his experiments with blending whiskies. The idea was of course not new as spirit dealers and tavern owners had been crudely doing it for decades but George had the keen sense to understand that what his friend Usher had discovered through his experiments, would be the future of whisky.
The company, 'The Ballantine's' never looked back after George turned his attention to blending and ageing whiskies.
In 2007 Ballentine's won gold in all six categories at the Whisky Master Awards. Ballantine's finest is Europe's No 1 Scotch whisky and also was voted World's Best Blended Scotch 2020.
Manu Remakant is a freelance writer who also runs a video blog — A Cup of Kavitha — introducing world poetry to Malayalis. The views expressed here are personal.
Tags: #Tippling Point
first published: Feb 20, 2021 11:49 am


LIFE-CURVE AHEAD – SLOW DOWN!!!
Have you ever driven down an unfamiliar road at 65mph and suddenly realized there is a curve ahead!?
You instinctually react by taking your foot off the accelerator and putting it on the brake. This unconscious action probably saved your life!
The road of life is sometimes similar, as we move along at our day-to-day fast pace, a 'life-curve' may surprise us. Life-curves come in many forms. It may appear as a call from a teacher announcing your child has fallen, a text from your spouse saying the 'company car' will be discontinued next month, or your discovery that you have high blood pressure.
No matter the unexpected or sudden 'curve', your body, mind and emotions react with a heightened state of awareness. This survival instinct is a true gift. However it is not healthy to remain in this hypersensitivity.
One of the amazing things about our physical, mental and emotional systems is that it is their nature to return to a sense of equilibrium or homeostasis. When we learn to partner with this organic process, we may avoid getting stuck in trauma and return to balance with more ease.
Road signs are designed to keep drivers safe, create order, and provide essential information. Signs along the road of life may also assist us in the same manner. There are '4 Traffic Tips for Life' that will help you move more smoothly through life's curves.
SLOW DOWN your body, thoughts, and emotions.
PAUSE and take a few deep breaths to ground yourself back in your body.
CLOSE YOUR EYES and allow yourself to be PRESENT in the moment.
Be aware of the 'state of the moment' with your Self and the Situation.
Focus on 'WHAT IS' in order to respond with appropriate action.
'WHAT IS' happening with your Self?
Body: Is there tension? Heart racing? Injured? Breathing labored?
Thoughts: What are the concerns in the moment?
Emotions: Is there fear? Anxiety? Anticipation? Confusion?
Child fell: not injured; resting in nurse's office until end of school.
What is beneficial or life-giving action to take immediately?
What is beneficial or life-giving action to take longer-term?
To move from a state of unconscious reaction to conscious responding allows you to proceed with focus. Life-curves give us the opportunity to reevaluate what is important to us. It is as if a spotlight illuminates an aspect of life so we may observe 'what is' of present value to us. With this renewed awareness we can make choices that serve our well-being.
On the road of life, there are guiding signs along the way. Slow down so you may see the signs, enjoy the view and appreciate those who are on the journey with you.


Anticipation is rising as the 2007 New York International Automobile Show goes back to the Jacob Javits Convention Center this April 6th. Many automobile enthusiasts are looking forward to feasting their eyes and satisfying their hunger for the freshest line-up that their favorite brands have to offer.
This auto show will feature more of the cars and trucks of the 2007 and 2008 production line and many of the concept vehicles that are projected to bring about change in the automobile dynamics. Many different cars will be put on the spotlight and all its intricate design details will be scrutinized. The inner working of the vehicles will also be one of the many attractions.
The show promises that critics and fanatics will have a difficult time comparing and contrasting the different creations presented to them. Each curve and swerve of the contour of each car has been perfected; every show glare and brightness.
The opening day ceremonies will be held on the 7th of April at 9:30 to 11 in the morning. The show will run 11am to 10:30 pm Mondays to Saturdays and from 10 am to 7 pm on Sundays. This show is open to anyone who wants to get to know more about cars, cars collectors or just anyone who wants to see flashy and shiny steel that revolves on a platform.
Tickets can be availed of on line and can be printed from your homes and transferred in favor of other persons, or you can purchase them directly at the door or at the Credit Card Kiosk at the Javits Center.
There are many different events to be excited about, like the National Automotive Technology Competition Breakfast, Automotive Career Fair, the famous New York Bus Tour, TVB Breakout Sessions and Trade Show Exhibits, Symposium on World Traffic Safety, Competition for Safety Designs, a Hispanic Day Concert, and of course the closing of the event on the last day which is the 15th of April.
For enthusiasts from far places, many hotels are open near the venue site. Among these are the Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers, the Crown Plaza Times Square, the Hilton New York, Marriott Marquis, W Times Square Hotel and many others.
Next year's New York International Auto Show will be held on March 21-30, 2008.
• Tired Of Tinted Windows?
• What Is Better A Two Seat Car Or A Four Seat Car?


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Home GADGETS Phones The Specs of The Galaxy S10's Triple Camera Were Just Leaked
The Specs of The Galaxy S10's Triple Camera Were Just Leaked
Samsung proposes to launch three Galaxy S10 versions early next year. And one of the versions, possibly S10+ is likely to have five cameras — three on the back and two on the front. However there's no official statement on the specs of cameras but we have a guess that one camera will be for standard selfie while the other will be a wide-angle selfie as in the case of LG flagships.
According to the SamsungMobile leak report, the Galaxy S10 versions may have 2, 16 (123-degree field of view), and 13-megapixel respectively, and f1.5, f1.9, f2.4 aperture lens respectively.
SamsungMobile suggests that Galaxy S10 and S10+ will be successors of S9 and S9+ while the third one will be more affordable compared to the other two.
Buy your fantastic Samsung Galaxy smartphones here: https://www.techquery.ng/product-category/phones-deals/
However Samsung Galaxy S10 version will not be the first to implement a 3 rear camera as Galaxy A7 which was officially launched 2weeks ago already has 3 rear cameras. It appears to be the first device under the company new strategy of mid-range phones, whereby new features, even those that are not there on flagships, are added to the mid-rangers to make them stand out in the crowded market.
The prices will slightly be above $1000 except for the affordable one.
techquery.ng
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This is neither a history of ceramics nor a treatise on how they are produced. I imagine, however, that at least some readers share my own confusion about certain terms such as ceramic, terra cotta, majolica, china, porcelain, etc., so I offer a few definitions here below as an introduction to the story of the Royal Porcelain Factory of Capodimonte.
If you start with clay and make a pot and bake it to make it brittle and water-resistant, you get a type of earthenware known as terra cotta (Italian for 'baked earth'). If you fire the product at a higher temperature, the result is called stoneware or ceramic. Still higher temperatures and denser mixtures with kaolin (a clay mineral named for a place in China where it was first used) in the basic material produce porcelain, considered the highest quality of ceramic. Fired clay products may be glazed such that the surface will hold painted decorations. Obviously, the nature of the finished product depends on the variety of clay used, the temperature it is fired at, and how it is glazed. These vary greatly around the world, but geographical eponyms for ceramic products, especially types of porcelain, are well known; they include China, Meissen (or Dresden), Sevres, Limoges, and our own Capodimonte.
Majolica ceramic is also named for a place—the island of Majorca, a major port where ships stopped on their way to Italy in the Middle Ages. They carried Hispano-Moresque majolica ceramic wares, typically glazed with tin-oxide enamels and fired at relatively low temperatures, then colorfully decorated. That particular process seems to have been invented by the Arabs and then introduced into Sicily when they conquered the island in the ninth century.
There are many examples in Naples of decorative majolica (maiolica in Italian). Two well-known artistic examples are the majolica courtyard of the church of Santa Chiara (see link and top photo) and the Garden of Eden floor mosaic in the Church of San Michele in the town of Anacapri on the island of Capri. There are, as well, countless other examples in Naples of majolica as decorative tiles, wall and floor murals, church domes, and statues and figurines used for serious settings in churches and Christmas manger scenes as well as for mundane uses such as apothecary jars and in restaurants and private homes. Important centers of local majolica production in Renaissance Italy were Orvieto, Florence, Bologna, and Faenza (among others in central Italy), Palermo and Caltagirone in Sicily, and a number of localities in Campania near Naples. (Faenza has also given us the synonym, faience, for majolica.) Some of the Italian production was so prized that Arab merchants bought it for their markets in the eastern Mediterranean.
Both majolica and porcelain were produced at the Royal Porcelain Factory on the Capodimonte hill in Naples, the site of one of the Bourbon Royal Palaces (photo, right) in the 1700s. In 1739 Charles III of Bourbon, the new king of the new kingdom of Naples, followed the example of Royal Courts elsewhere in Europe and set up a porcelain factory. (This may have to do with the fact that Charles had just married Maria Amalia, granddaughter of Augustus II, the Elector of Saxony, King of Poland, and founder of the porcelain factory in Meissen in 1710. "You know, Charles, granddad had a great idea!") The factory was first housed in the Royal Palace, where the artisans spent a few years researching suitable clays, mixtures and glazes. (They found kaolin deposits near Catanzaro down south and started production.) Officially, porcelain manufacture started in 1743, and the production facility was relocated to the Royal Wood of Capodimonte.
The porcelain factory of Charles III had a relatively brief existence —16 years— during which time it turned out high quality decorative porcelain. The factory mark used was a fleur-de-lis painted in underglaze blue. When Charles III abdicated in 1759 to return to Spain, he unfortunately took his Royal Porcelain Factory (lock, stock and craftsmen) with him. The facility was reestablished by his son, Ferdinand IV, in 1771 as the Royal Porcelain Works of Naples and continued production at the Royal Palace at Portici and in the main palace in Naples until production was shut down during the French rule of Murat in the early 1800s. Throughout its activity, the facility gained a reputation for quality porcelain and majolica, much of it decorative, but much of it also cultural in that the majolica was often painted with historical and religious scenes; also, the famous Neapolitan tradition of the Christmas presepe (linked above) was enriched by the addition of majolica ceramic figures, often crafted by prominent Neapolitan sculptors and painters. In the field of culinary culture, the factory specialized in such things as porcelain dinner services with, for example, plates decorated with neo-classical motifs based on the antiquities found at Herculaneum or with folk costumes from throughout the kingdom. Some of the splendid production of the porcelain factory is on display in Naples at the porcelain room of the Capodimonte Museum as well as at the Duca di Martina Museum in the Villa Floridiana.
Although the Royal Porcelain Works was not reestablished as such after the restoration of the Bourbon monarchy in 1815, local private production of ceramics continued and, indeed, continues today with the production of decorative tiles in both majolica and porcelain for many purposes (including some very personal ones!). Small factories are located in Campania and Benevento. Also, ceramic sculpture is still created. I started to think about writing this entry when I went searching for the origins of a six-foot statue of the Neapolitan revolutionary, Masaniello. The statue (photo, left) is done in glazed terracotta and is in the church of the Carmine. It bears the name of the sculptor, Raffaele Vaccarella, who created the work in the late 1800s. I actually found the small family workshop, still in existence and run by the grandson of the sculptor. He was kind enough to give me a book written by his own father, Giuseppe Vaccarella, called L'Arte della Maiolica, from which I have taken the image in this paragraph.


In our recent report on the SXC race at Kirroughtree on 1st September we failed to give the correct name for the bronze medal counting position in the Juvenile Girls race. The correct positions were: Katie Allen (Team Thomsons Cycles), Ellie Park (Glasgow Riderz) and Polly Henderson (Stewarty Wheelers). Well done to all the girls and we're sure we're going to be seeing these riders making headlines in the future.