To Steal a Heart
by Jen Turano
Back of the 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, 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.”
Impressions: The story was cozy and sweet but with adventure and mystery throughout.
Liked: I think this was a well-balanced book. I liked the characters and look forward to reading more of their stories. They each had their own unique personalities and stories that I’m itching to know now that I’ve gotten to know them a bit. The women had grit and wit and made a great team.
Disliked: After reading some more sobering books this book seemed a bit fluffy. That is purely situational and I think this was a wonderful book. My mind just needed reset as I began reading this.
Learned: I’m not one for formalities but this reminded me that people are people regardless of class. We should respect each other and our accomplishments but that doesn’t mean that we value others differently.
Quotes: “Intentions don’t count for much when they don’t become actions.” – I am reading James with friends and we were just discussing this topic. Faith without actions is dead, useless. It is a good reminder to be thoughtful but to also take action.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

This is another enjoyable historical novel from Turano that includes a dose of humor and a good mystery. I like the idea of a motley collection of women detectives. Other women trusted them so they would investigate issues men would have ignored. These women get it done. The idea of them toting pistols and rifles is something else.

I also liked how Turano gave us an exploration of the social levels of the day. We are taken into the world of high society in New York. Appearance and reputation are so very important. They have no problems with ignoring and even shunning the poor. Turano sets up several situations that breach the barriers the wealthy set up to protect themselves.

There is not as much humor in this novel as there has been in earlier ones by Turano. Nonetheless, it was a delight to read. I was fascinated by this group of women detectives and will be watching for the next in the series.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.

Reliably enjoyable read!

This intro to Jen Turano's newest series has all the hallmarks of her slightly zany historical romance style, though it is perhaps a little less madcap than some of her previous works, and I actually like it better for that. Gabriella is a very sympathetic character, and it was not difficult to relate to her feelings even when they were off the mark. She's flawed, but passionate.

Nicholas is a bit different. He's a very good hero in all the check-the-box sort of ways, but maybe too good that way because he didn't seem all that believable. And while the story was quite entertaining, having a hero that was a little too biddable made for a romance that was a little too flat.

The plot and story are well done and entertaining. The book's description made it sound like the story would be about clearing the friend's name, but it's actually just the beginning of the Inquiry Agency and - not to give too much away - let's just say that the overarching plot is something that encompasses the whole setting.

An enjoyable read, and I'm looking forward to Daphne's story!

*Romance level: sweet kisses, nothing graphic

*Religion: Christian, low key & organic to the story

"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.

Jen Turano is known for her humorous, historical romances, 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 Turana, 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.

I didn't think it was possible for me to read a Jen Turano book and not completely love it, but this book proved me wrong. Usually Jen Turano has a way of drawing the reader in, making me love the characters, the story, the romance...but this time, I was so bored. There was so much going on without a lot of explanation, and I had a hard time really understanding the plot and where it was going. First we have this mystery of who stole some jewels, but then that was resolved fairly quickly and then we're on to the next mystery. I figured the book would follow the one mystery, but nope - it jumps from one to the next while the main characters fall in love. Except...I didn't really feel the romance at all. There was zero chemistry between the hero and heroine, and it kept getting shoved in the reader's face about how the hero has gotten so high up in station and is now looking for a bride of status. I didn't feel the emotion I expected from both main characters as they moved through the story.

Overall, it's not a terrible book, but it wasn't one I want to recommend to friends or read again. I'm hoping the next book in the series will be more interesting.

Jen Turano's To Steal a Heart is a humorous piece of historical fiction. One of the best things about these stories is seeing how "proper" society has such difficulty adjusting to those who buck the trends. It is so laughable to imagine the characters shaking things up amongst the elites or elite wannabes.

Gabriella is an interesting character. Some of the best parts of the story involve the relationships she has made with her employer and those who dwell in her boarding house. Many characters have interesting stories and personalities, and they all flow together into an interesting mix of people.

The thing that makes this story so appealing is the absolute silliness and unlikeliness of some of the circumstances. One can get lost in the light-hearted fun and still find room for some budding romances. Enjoy the lark and smile at the antics. Sometimes real life can be too intense and this book provides a nice diversion.

To Steal A Heart by Jen Turano is an exciting Christian historical novel that will certainly entertain the reader. It is the first book in The Bleaker Street Inquiry Agency series which promises to be fabulous.
The novel has some highly amusing scenes as we follow some very modern and forward thinking women in 1880’s New York. They are far from conventional as they disguise themselves to solve crimes. The reader is delighted by their antics.
A couple of pooches and a parrot with a fetish for shiny things all add to our entertainment.
The basis of the novel is from Genesis 50. What others meant for harm, God used for good. We may feel far from God at times but He is never far from us. He watches over our every movement protecting us from harm.
There is the theme of fathers. In God we have our perfect father. Even if our earthly fathers abandon us, our heavenly Father will never leave us nor forsake us. To Him, we are never an ‘inconvenience’. We are His and we are loved.
New York City in the nineteenth century was a city of two halves – the very wealthy and the very poor. Poor decisions were made by those driven by wealth and status. In contrast those with a heart for the poor and vulnerable were delightful to witness them opening their homes to those in need.
Guilt can cripple us. We need to confess our sins to God, receive His forgiveness and live in His freedom and love.
Jen Turano always writes such delightfully fun novels, even though she has serious themes. I always love her tales. I am entertained and amused. What better way to spend a gloomy autumnal afternoon than in the company of To Steal A Heart.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.

With her typical humor, To Steal a Heart is another winner from Jen Turano.

Turano always managers to write great banter and witty dialogue. From the moment Nicholas and Gabriella reunite, their banter had me laughing out loud. I love a good friends-to-lovers story, and this story was perfect.

But even though Nicholas and Gabriella were my favorite, I loved the interactions between all the characters. While some are wacky and eccentric, they’re still lovable. Turnao did a great job fleshing out the supporting cast. I’m looking forward to the next books in this series.

The romance was great, but I have to admit, the mystery intrigued me the most. The characters try to help a friend who’s been framed. And then they have their own personal mysteries to solve. Just when things calms down, Turano throws another curveball that had me anxious to reach the end.

I also loved the spiritual aspects of the novel. There are some great conversations about God’s sovereignty and His will for our lives. While the spiritual aspects aren’t as overt as some other Christian novels, the conversations provide some great food for thought. And they encourage readers to evaluate their own relationship with God.

Overall, To Steal a Heart is a well written romance that have you laughing even as you swoon.

(Note: I received a complimentary copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.)

To Steal a Heart by Jen Turano 4 stars

This first book in Miss Jen’s new series is delightful. Jen Turano never fails to me laugh. It’s set in the Gilded Age when those in high society only mingle and marry among themselves. The women at the boarding house bonded together to help Jennette clear her name. In their first “adventure”, Gabriella met her long lost friend Nicholas. It was easy for them to become friends again because of their shared past. Gabe is wary most of the time due to the fact that Nicholas is now part of New York four hundred.

I like that the romance between Gabriella and Nicholas is not overwhelming. It just flows naturally as a by-product of their old friendship and current situations. The focus is on the activities of the Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency. The women are fun with eccentric characters and entertaining “adventures”. Daphne is most interesting to me. Their disguises and antics are hilarious but I was also anxious that they will be caught in action.

It took me about three chapters to be fully immersed on what was going on but I’m glad I continued reading. I want to reread it. I like how the story unfolds, the unexpected revelations. the new-found family and a new purpose in life for Nicholas and Gabe. It’s an entertaining read.

Thank you to #netgalley and Bethany House for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Jen Turano manages the perfect balancing act between the lighthearted and suspenseful with To Steal a Heart, the first in her new Bleaker Street Inquiry Agency series, a task that can be difficult, with the book sometimes feeling a bit too much of one and not enough the other. But with Turano’s natural tendency toward witty repartee, it all feels like a natural fit with the light addition of a bit of intrigue to the plot with the twists and turns.

Add to that that it centers my favorite trope: Gabriella and Nicholas are childhood friends who bonded as street thieves prior to making new lives for themselves after Nicholas abandoned her, then finding themselves thrown together again years later when circumstances compel them to work together.

I enjoyed seeing them come to terms with the lingering issues and feelings between them while working on the case, and there was just such a charm to their dynamic. They play off each other very well, and I rooted for them throughout. And they are also complemented by a stellar cast of supporting characters, and I can’t wait to see whose story is next.

I enjoyed this book, and think it will delight both longtime fans of Turano’s and anyone looking for a sweet, funny historical romance.

When it comes to historical fiction, there is no author I look more forward to reading that Jen Turano. It truly comes as no surprise that Booklist has named her as one of the funniest voices in inspirational fiction. This isn't something that I have found in any other books taking place in the 1800s... or at least not to the same extreme anyway! Her books are filled with humorous situations and unique and headstrong characters that I cannot get enough of. To Steal a Heart is certainly no exception.

In this book (the first in the The Bleaker Street Inquiry Agency #1), we meet Gabriella as she is attempting to use her skills learned as a kid on the streets to break into a safe. She is interrupted when someone else arrives to break into that same safe... none other than her childhood partner in crime Nicholas. Both had turned away from crime, but found themselves at this point using their skills for good. What follows is a hilarious adventure to find the Knickerbocker Bandit... and find out the secrets of their pasts.

With humorous dialogue, a good dose of mystery and romance, I absolutely could not put this one down. Not only did I enjoy the relationship between Gabriella and Nicholas, but I loved getting to know the quirky side characters too. They certainly left me wondering what would happen with the ladies at the boardinghouse next. If you enjoy historical romance, this is certainly one worth checking out.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

When a resident at the Holbrooke boardinghouse is falsely accused of theft, the other ladies of the boardinghouse band together, using their diverse talents and abilities, to clear her name. From this comes the idea to form the Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency, which appeals to the ladies of New York City in 1886. For Gabriella Goodhue, who puts her childhood as a thief to use for the agency, this leads to a reunion with her once-best friend from her childhood, who has also turned from a life of crime. Nicholas Quinn is as surprised to see Gabriella as she is to see him and even more surprised by the fact that she seems to hate him now.

This book, unfortunately, was not really for me. It hit a lot of wrong chords with me, and I really don't care for the author's writing style. The characters are okay, though most of the larger characters seem too similar to each other, with only a few stand-outs. The villain is incredibly over-the-top and cliched. The plot is disjointed and doesn't really follow one thread all the way through, except maybe for the connection between Gabriella and Nicholas.

The premise is interesting and the story that comes out of it is decent. The given synopsis (clearing the friend's name) comes to a conclusion before the 50% mark, which led me to wonder what the book was really about. In the end, the story goal seems to really have been about giving both of these street urchins (Gabriella and Nicholas, who were both orphans and part of a gang of thieves in their childhood) answers to their past. This came out of nowhere, as it wasn't really established in the first part of the book, other than the simple fact that they had been orphans.

I also thought the history between Gabriella and Nicholas was not nearly strong or deep enough for how they acted and talked. Gabriella was 12 when she was taken away from the gang. Nicholas was (I think) 14. Yet they act and talk as if they were much older and more mature when they knew each other in the past. When they meet again, they've been apart longer than they've been together, and they certainly don't act like they were super close as kids. We only know they were because they say they were.

All of the above things, however, would probably still have left me with a book I could enjoy, had it not been for the writing style itself. It was very wordy and felt really shallow. I'm not a stickler at all for the "show, don't tell" adage, but if I am noticing an abundance of adverbs, it's probably too much. Take for example the following: "That he looked incredibly furious was not in question, nor was it in question that he also looked rather dangerous." Not only is this pure telling, it's telling with way more words than necessary (and this happened often). Various expressions were overused throughout the book, too, like "resuming the friendship" and "lady love."

I like the idea of the premise of the series, and the fact that the next book is about one of the most interesting characters from this book makes me a little sad. Because from reviews I've read of other Jen Turano books, I have a feeling this one is not a stand-out in regards to writing style. I don't have any plans at this time to read any more of her books. However, she has many great reviews on a lot of books, including this one. So if you don't think the issues I've mentioned in my review would bother you, please do give this book a try. It's just a miss for me.

The first book in the new Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency series is an interesting read. Gabriella Goodhue used to be a street thief and has put her rusty skills to good use with the women of her boarding house. A friend has been falsely accused of a crime committed against one of the New York 400’s most eligible bachelors and the women set out to prove her innocence – and to capture the real culprit.
Nicholas Quinn was Gabriella’s best friend, until he was taken in by a wealthy professor and given a new identity. Now he’s another bachelor of the New York 400 and tasked with the same mission as Gabriella, though unbeknownst to either party.
In classic Jen Turano style, humour is the thread that binds the characters together is strong. Characters are likable and the story moves along. There are twists and secrets revealed that may surprise readers.
I enjoyed the story for the most part, but due to my ARC missing several pages the story skipped lots of parts. I didn’t enjoy it as much as other books I’ve read by the same author, but again it’s likely because I missed chunks of the story in my copy.
I received an ecopy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

This book was pretty good. Too many characters too keep straight, though. I had such a hard time getting into the story since at every turn there was someone new. It had a nice plot, but the entire first part had way too much set up for the rest of the series. I could have skipped to the middle and been pretty good. I enjoy this author, but too many characters for me to really like this book.

I received a copy of this book to facilitate a review. All opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise.

I absolutely enjoy every Jen Turano story I've read. Turano is a master at hilarious and quirky Gilded Age romances. Whenever I want a break from more serious books, I slip a Jen Turano book in the mix for a guaranteed delightful story that is funny and with heart. I loved this story of Nicholas and Gabriella (known as Gabe in her youth) who had been the best of friends and now encounter each other many years later. They grew up together and were street children who survived as petty thieves. They were accidentally split up and now they meet as adults. I highly recommend To Steal A Heart and I can't wait for the next story in this new series!


Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for the chance to read an early copy. All opinions are my own!

I enjoy Jen Turano's fun humorous stories set in the Victorian era. This book was another sweet addition to her list of fun and sweet stories. I really loved the banter between the two main characters and how they had a history together. The reformed thief angle was interesting and funny. Her books are full of spunk and ridiculously funny situations!.
I do think there were things that were wrapped up a little too conveniently for the situation and I didn't care for some of the character's attitudes, but it was fun if you don't take it seriously.
I recommend this book to someone looking for a fun historical romp!

This is book one in The Bleaker Street Inquiry Agency series, what a great place to start. I fell in love with many of the characters in this book and look forward to reading more from this series.Gabriella Goodhue is a fun, spunky opinionated woman. I enjoyed her personality and watching her open her heart to people. The handsome Nicholas Quinn, has a good heart and many hard decisions to make. I loved the sparks between Gabriella and Nicholas. The entire Bleaker Street Inquiry Agency is full of fun, unique women, I so look forward to getting to know them all more. I loved how even though I believe this series will probably be a stand alone type read, I feel the books will continue to involve everyone, therefore your enjoyment will be magnified by reading them all. Jen Turano is one of my favorite I love her spunky writing style, filled with humor, mystery and history.

I wish Turano books would go on and on. I love everything about her books: the characters, the plots, the animals, the big reveals, the funny incidents. This first book in the new series got things off to a fabulous start.
Gabriella and her friends at the boarding house are trying to prove someone’s innocence. Surprisingly, in the midst of their “adventure,” she runs into an old friend who also seems to be up to his old tricks. Gabriella and company decide they may have just found a way to help women in unusual circumstances and so form an inquiry agency. The ladies are quite quirky and delightful. There’s huge potential for mishaps and laughs. The men in their lives are equally dashing, funny, protective, and mysterious. I can’t wait to read all of their stories. It was a great read and I’d highly recommend it.
Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

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.