Ever since her ex-boyfriend dumped her on Christmas Eve, the holiday season has been tough for Maya Badger—especially since Lost Harbor, Alaska pulls out all the stops for the holidays. Sure, she could focus on her police work and her father’s recovery from heart surgery. But when her dad’s home healthcare nurse turns out to be her childhood buddy—all grown up and the stuff of her naughtiest fantasies—she may have a solution to her holiday blues. After all, Jay-Jay always was the perfect playmate!
Rune Larsen hasn’t been skinny little Jay-Jay in a long time…not since he and his teen sister were forced to change their names to avoid Cara’s stalker. Taking a job in tiny, remote Lost Harbor seems like the perfect way to stay one step ahead of danger. The fact that his childhood friend is the town police chief is a bonus. Not to mention the fact that Maya has grown into a beautiful bronze goddess. Hell, even her serious cop side is a turn-on…though he’s up for the challenge of bringing some fun back into her life.
In fact, if they can navigate a stalker, a runaway yak, eleventy-billion holiday parties and a criminal investigation into the dark side of Lost Souls Wilderness, Rune just may convince Maya to fall head over heels for the holidays…and beyond.
Jennifer Bernard is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance. Her books have been called “an irresistible reading experience” full of “quick wit and sizzling love scenes.” A graduate of Harvard and former news promo producer, she left big city life in Los Angeles for true love in Alaska, where she now lives with her husband and stepdaughters. She still hasn’t adjusted to the cold, so most often she can be found cuddling with her laptop and a cup of tea. No stranger to book success, she also writes erotic novellas under a naughty secret name that she’s happy to share with the curious.
You can connect with Jennifer online at http://JenniferBernard.net or email her at Jen@JenniferBernard.net.
I’ve been waiting for Maya and I was NOT disappointed!
Maya and Rune knew each other as kids but even then there was a special connection between them. Now all grown up and each dealing with their own escalating dangerous situation, fate brings them back together.
I’ve loved Maya from the beginning and getting to know her better and find the happiness she deserves was so rewarding. It was also to see SG/Maggie save the day and find some happy too!
I’m hoping for a Kelsey/Alasdair story but if not this was a wonderful ending to an amazing series.
I received a complimentary review copy of this book but all opinions are my own.
I loved this story! Maya is the town’s police chief & as such, is overlooked by many of the town’s men. She was humiliated in her last relationship & has pretty much called it quits since then. She has to maintain her reputation or her job will be even tougher. When the new traveling home nurse comes to help with her father, she’s surprised it’s her old friend Jay-Jay. He’s going by his middle name now & has brought his sister with him. She’s being stalked & when the stalker finds them, they pick up & leave again. It’s kept the one step in front of the stalker. Will Maya & Rune’s friendship still be as strong? Will it become more than friendship? Or will Rune & Cara have to leave before it has a chance?
I love these characters & how the story develops. Maya’s personality doesn’t seem to come across as someone that would jump into a relationship with someone she just met. She’d be more cautious & mindful of her position. That’s why I love that this was someone she had feeling for in her childhood. It was a natural fit. I really have enjoyed the mystery that has bound the books of this series together. Each book can be read as a stand alone but the mystery is the ribbon running through them all. This has been a fantastic series.
Head over Heels for the Holidays is book 7 in the Lost Harbor, Alaska series by Jennifer Bernard and we have been waiting for Maya’s story!
Maya Badger, town police chief was dumped years ago on Christmas Eve so the holidays are tough. She’s trying to focus on her work and her father’s recovery until a home healthcare nurse shows up to help. What she doesn’t expect is her childhood buddy ... Jay Jay or now known as Rune Larsen to be the nurse.
Suspense, a stalker, laughter, investigation, holiday parties and so much more...so looking forward to more from Ms. Bernard!!
What a fun and captivating journey! Rune and Cara, his sister, are on the run from a stalker. So they move from Hawaii to Alaska.
What Cara doesn't know is that her brother grew up in Alaska and is really good "friends" with Maya, the Police Chief. Maya sees Rune as her childhood friend, but he sees her as so much more. Lots of conflict, suspense, adventure and dangerous rescues in this one!
It’s always fun to return to Lost Harbor, Alaska, but returning for Maya’s story and the holidays was extra special. Maya is the tough-as-nails police chief of Lost Harbor. There is so much to love about this one, it’s hard to decide where to start. Maya Badger is conscious of her role every minute of every day. Already an over-achiever, she feels like she always must prove she is the right person for the job. With her Dad recovering from a heart attack and surgery, she finally realizes she needs help, and contacts a company to get a nurse brought in to help. Imagine her surprise when she realizes her Dad’s hunky new nurse is none other than her childhood friend. Rune Larsen became a traveling nurse hoping to lose his sister Cara’s stalker. Somehow, despite their moving around he seems to always find them. When he sees Lost Harbor on the job list, he can’t help but remember his childhood buddy who kept him out of trouble. Even better that she’s the Police Chief. Maybe this time they can lose him or finally catch him so his sister can have a normal life. Twenty years fall away as the friendship they had reasserts itself. Lost Harbor loves its holidays, and Maya’s tired of attending the parties solo, especially after being dumped Christmas Eve five years ago. Her biggest rule is that she won’t date anyone she may have to arrest, so that leaves few options in a small town, and when her attempt at a dating app fails, who better ask to be her “fake” holiday boyfriend? Rune is up for it, knowing his time in town may be limited, although he reminds her that they will have to make it look convincing so the town won’t think he’s just a friend doing a favor. Of course, the fake falls by the wayside as they realize their feelings have deepened. Will Maya let go and trust Rune with her heart? Jennifer Bernard always gives the readers stories and characters to adore, and this one is no exception. There are so many instances that had me rolling in laughter. Maya and a Yak? Superstar? The whole town and first responders happy that Maya has a less stern side? On top of the humor, there is still a mystery or two to solve and a girl to reunite with her mother. I also loved that Cara and Maggie (aka S.G.) became such good friends. I could be here all day talking about the best parts of the story, but then I would give away too much, and I hate to spoil it for anyone. Every Lost Harbor novel is my favorite, until the next one comes out, but Bernard is going to have a tough time topping this one. It is a part of a series, but there is enough information given to allow it to stand alone. If you haven’t read the rest of the series, I highly recommend catching up. This novel is perfect for the holidays: full of humor, love, family, friends, and a touch of mystery. Grab a hot chocolate and a cozy blanket, settle by some twinkling lights and immerse yourself in this one. Thank you to the publisher for an advanced copy of this novel. All opinions are my own and freely given. #headoverheelsfortheholidays #lostharboralaska #jenniferbernard
Maya Badger - yes!! We finally have the police chiefs story and it was perfect for the woman who protect and serves the residents of Lost Harbor, Alaska.
Maya has been the stoic background hero who always follows the rules and never lets her weaknesses show. Waiting for her story has been a joy and also agony. Who would be the man to bring the police chief to her knees because nothing seems to phase Maya Badger. Reading Maya's story and learning more about her background we come to find out that, yes, she always has been an overachiever and that is no surprise, but underneath the hard exterior is a girly-girl who may just have been waiting for her Prince Charming, or her naughty nurse, to arrive in Lost Harbor when the holiday season was right.
Rune Larsen and his sister Cara have been on the run for the past couple years trying to outrun a stalker that has been making Cara's life very unpleasant. When a home healthcare nurse opening becomes available for one Harris Badger, Rune recognizes the name from his childhood and jumps at the opportunity. The fact that it's listed in Alaska is also a huge plus to stay ahead of the stalker. When they step into town and he meets the police chief, Maya, it's a huge sigh of relief that it's his childhood friend is on the side of the law and for the first time in a long time that he feels somewhat safe. Not only is he happy to see his old friend, but something else is stirring inside that could be considered more and it has nothing to do with the holiday spirit.
Rune and Maya are able to rekindle not only their old friendship, but new sparks are flying as they began a relationship as adults. While both of them agree to embark into something light for the holiday season, it doesn't take long for their attraction to deepen into something more. While they both know Rune could leave at any moment if the stalker appears, it's hard to evade the fall.
Rune's lighthearted jokes about the holiday happenings in Lost Harbor was fun and super enjoyable, while Maya finding her joy for the holidays again was very uplifting. If you are looking for either a holiday boost or ideas for your own holiday party Head Over Heels for the Holidays will give you both.
Also in case you were wondering, the mystery surrounding Lost Harbor and Maggie, formerly known as S.G. or Spruce Goose, is still intermixed throughout the storyline, but I don't want to give the plot away - it's just too good. Maya has been an integral part of helping Maggie since the beginning and you don't think Jennifer would let that just fall by the wayside, no way. So plan on this holiday season being filled with lots of love, cookies, tinsel, and an old mystery.
Jennifer Bernard is one of my favorite authors. Head Over Heels for the Holidays is the seventh book in her Lost Harbor series. I have been waiting for this book as Maya has been very present in the previous six books, but we never really get a chance to know her. Police Chief Maya Badger is so serious and always there for everyone else: listening to them, giving advice, and solving problems. She always seems to be working and not having any fun especially after she was painfully dumped by her previous boyfriend around the same time a few years ago.
Recovering from heart surgery, Maya’s father needs a nurse to help monitor him through his recovery. Maya is astonished and happy to see that her old friend Jay Jay, who now goes by the name Rune, is her father’s nurse. Maya and Rune met while Maya’s father was stationed in Hawaii many years ago. They were best friends way back when but hadn’t seen or heard from each other since that time. Rune shows up in Lost Harbor hoping to keep his sister Cara safe from a stalker that has been following them around from state-to-state and city-to-city. His hope is that Alaska will deter him and that Maya can help him give Cara a little bit of a normal life for a while.
Head Over Heels for the Holidays is a great way to get in the holiday spirit. It has romance, friendship and even solves three cases for Maya: where the missing yak is, the mystery of Lost Souls Wilderness which happened to solve the mystery surrounding Sprouse Grouse, now known as Maggie, and Cara’s stalker was killed while trying to kidnap her.
I loved to see Maya enjoying the holidays with Rune at her side. It was fun to see all of the celebrations that the townspeople of Lost Harbor had as they entered into the winter months. The camaraderie and celebrations definitely help during the long winter days and nights.
Before I end my review, I have to say that I love all the covers in this series; however, the cover for this book is my favorite. I’m not sure why it is my favorite other than I think that is exactly how Rune and Maya look, and I love the joy on their faces as they are dressed for the cold Alaskan winter. I look forward to the next book in the series, although I don’t know who it could be about other than Kelsey, Maggie’s mother.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review that is my own.
WOW!!! I loved reading Head Over Heels for the Holidays by Jennifer Bernard, book seven in her Lost Harbor, Alaska series. This story has all the feels, intrigue, suspense, and of course love. Life has not been easy for police chief Maya Badger, especially around the holiday season; Lost Harbor pulls out all the stops in celebrating the holiday season. Maya has been going solo to all the events, especially for the last five years since her ex-boyfriend dumped her on Christmas Eve to marry someone else. She has enough on her plate between her police work and her father’s recovery from heart surgery that she finally asks for some help; a healthcare nurse to work with her dad. Except, the healthcare nurse turns out to be her childhood buddy, Jay-Jay, all grown up, gorgeous, and the stuff her fantasies are made of. Rune Larsen hasn’t been the skinny little playmate Jay-Jay in a long time, not since he and his teen sister changed their names to escape from Cara’s stalker. Finding a healthcare position in tiny, remote Lost Harbor sounds like the perfect way to be a few steps ahead of the danger dodging their heels; having the police chief be a childhood friend is one more bonus. Rune is such a goner after seeing Maya, her becoming a bronze goddess; at least in his eyes. Seeing the serious Maya also draws him in and makes him want to bring some fun back into her life. Now all they have to do is navigate a stalker, a runaway yak, thousands of holiday parties and a criminal investigation into the dark side of Lost Souls Wilderness while Rune tries to convince Maya to fall head over heels for him, during the holidays and after.
Ms. Bernard wrote an amazing, emotional, intriguing, suspenseful, and magical story that is not to be missed. She provided a tale rich with suspense, reconnection, magnetic attraction, off the charts chemistry, amusing conversations, and endearing characters, who help Maya and Rune find a forever love, save Cara from a stalker, and solve the mysteries going on around the resort on Lost Souls. I highly recommend Head Over Heels for the Holidays to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I jumped into this book when I won an ARC, even though I hadn't read any of the previous books in the series, and I'm happy to report that I wasn't at all lost even though there was a significant mystery thread that was developed in the previous books and came to a climax in this book. The beautiful location in Alaska, the holiday theme, and the fact that it featured lead characters in somewhat nontraditional roles (female small town police chief and male nurse) who were both very competent and supportive of each other, were all things that I loved.
Maya and Rune are great characters separately, who are even better together. They originally met as 10 YOs and became best friends in Hawaii where her dad was stationed for a year, but then lost touch when she moved back to Alaska. Rune, however, never forgot about Maya, so when a traveling nurse contract comes up in her Alaska home town, he jumps on the chance to reconnect with her. He quickly figures out that Maya has grown into a woman he could love, the problem is that his 17 YO sister picked up a creepy stalker a couple of years ago and they can't remain in one place for long because the stalker always tracks them down and forces them to run.
Maya was dumped just before Xmas a few years back, is very wary of relationships, but doesn't want to be stuck attending her town's endless holiday parties alone. When Rune shows up, he's like the answer to all of her prayers. They immediately fall back into a lovely friendship based on mutual respect, the sparks are flying, AND she gets a plus one to attend all of the parties with. The only problem is that now she's in danger of losing her heart to someone who may not be able to stick around.
Between all of the holiday events, Maya and Rune's busy jobs, the threat of the stalker, and the resolution of a mystery about possible illegal activities taking place in the wilderness outside of Lost Harbor, there was a lot going on plot-wise, but as I mentioned, I never felt lost or bogged down in details. I'd definitely recommend this book as a fun, holiday themed page turner.
Head Over Heels For the Holidays is the seventh in Jennifer Bernard's lovely Lost Harbor series, set in beautiful Alaska. Lost Harbor is a small town on the edge of the harshly gorgeous wilderness, full of charm and welcome, especially for the holidays. Police chief Maya Badger would prefer to keep her distance, since being on the receiving end of a wretched breakup at the height of the season a few years back. And with her father recovering from heart surgery, she's really got her hands full. When his home healthcare nurse turns out to be a childhood friend who's grown up awfully well, maybe this Christmas will be a chance to change how she feels about this time of year.
Rune Larsen isn't the skinny little smart-aleck Maya befriended all those years ago. This temporary job in Lost Harbor is the perfect way to keep his teen sister Cara safe from her stalker. And Maya's professional capability is not just reassuring, it's a serious turn-on.
Jennifer Bernard's story hits all the right notes--Maya and Rune's falling for each other is a beautiful unfolding of hearts and emotions. Maya's wrestling with seeing all her friends in happy relationships, and is more than a little hesitant, given her history, while Rune is ready to go all-in once he figures out his own heart. There's also the small matter of the looming threat of the stalker, seemingly countless parties requiring their cheerful attendance, and an unresolved investigation in the Lost Souls Wilderness that they seem to be warned against pursuing...
Jennifer Bernard's writing is absolutely captivating. Maya and Rune's emotional journey is heartwarming and has moments of bittersweet, tender joy, and breathtaking passion. Their community is warmly supportive, and also doesn't shy away from speaking truths. Ms Bernard also handles the suspenseful plot deftly, and brings all elements to an extremely satisfying conclusion. Head Over Heels For the Holidays is a delicious read, and I'm excited to reread the whole series!
Head of Heels for the Holidays is full of community, family and suspense.
Maya Badger police chief of Lost Harbor is one tough cookie. I couldn’t get enough of this heroine, strong, loving, and the love that she shows for the town is heartfelt. Maya knows being a woman with dark skin, some question her as being Police Chief, but in the end they all come to rely on her.
Rune Larson aka Jay-Jay Breton Maya’s dads nurse and old friend turns heads when he and his sister come to town, what the folks of Lost Harbor don’t know is trouble followed them. Rune is undeniably a sexy goofball.
Rune and Maya share a past as kids, now Rune aka Jay-Jay shows up in her town with his sister. Secret crushes between them both will sparks fly again? I enjoyed the chemistry between Rune and Maya, fun and playful at times yet heated moments that made my toes curl. Will they both have a chance at love, or will past hurts put a stop to everything?
The supporting characters are a great balance for Rune and Maya, from the beginning you can tell they all respect Maya in her role as Police Chief. Rune fit right in with them all as well as his sister Cara. The bond between Maggie and Cara was a special thing. Thank you Ms. Bernard
Talk about one amazing plot sequence a suspense with another intriguing story woven in. Jennifer Bernard added a few twist and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. Rune needs to find a safe place to stash him and his sister after a crazy stalker is after her, what better place then the little town now policed by his best friend and secret crush police Chief Maya Badger. Maya is not a Christmas lover not after being dumped by her ex on Christmas Eve, shocked that one of the best parts of her past shows up out of the blue asking for help is just what she might need to get through the holidays.
Head Over Heels for the Holidays is a great way to get you or the holidays. If you are new to the Lost Harbor Series you are absolutely going to love it. It’s set in a small Alaskan town and is everything you imagine what you would find there. Although you don’t need to read the series in order it’s definitely to your advantage to start the series from the beginning only because you get the background on all the characters.
In the latest installment of the Lost Harbor Series we follow police chief Maya Badger. Maya has been burned before and is not interested in putting her heart on the line again especially because the last time she was dumped it happened on Christmas Eve. In a town like Lost Harbor this is especially tough because the town goes all out for the holidays starting with Halloween and continuing through Christmas. Work is a good excuse and Maya has more important things to worry about like finding a caretaker to help her father who is currently recovering from heart surgery. Much to Maya’s surprise the traveling nurse that shows up is Jay-Jay now known as Rune Larsen. Jay-Jay is a friend from the past who has grown into one dine man.
Rune has issues of his own though. Most important taking care of his sister Cara. Rune has never been able to stay in one place for long due to a stalker who has made it his life’s ambition to make it his quest to make Cara his.
Will the holidays be happy this year or will they be miserable? Only time will tell.
Jennifer Bernard has an amazing talent for getting you hooked from page 1 and captures you attention until the very end. If you’re looking for a great get away from all that is going on in the world this series is definitely for you and highly recommended.
How cool is it that “serious” Maya Badger, Chief of Police in Lost Harbor, Alaska has a story with a runaway yak? And not just ANY yak, but one that a local woman believes is the reincarnation of her dead husband??? YOU try being serious about investigating and reporting THAT incident!
I loved Maya. She has always been the super straitlaced, totally efficient, on the ball police chief character in previous stories but who knew she had a soft, mushy side to her. She can totally kick butt, but still have a soft side (that not many folks know about or see). She takes care of everyone in town, including her dad. I love what her reasoning is for not dating anyone in Lost Harbor: what if she had to arrest them someday? Too cute.
Her dad has been ill and she hires a home healthcare person to help keep him in line and on the road to recovery. Turns out, that person is a long-lost childhood friend, Rune Larsen. I adore Rune. He is the perfect…foil…for Maya and he teaches her what it’s like to have balance in her life.
Rune has a lot going on in his life, too, but it’s all part of the story and I won’t give any spoilers. His sister, Cara is a typical teen – with a heart of gold. There has been ongoing intrigue in this series and we get to read more about what is happening. And it got my heart pumping! Many characters from previous books show up and they make this town just about perfect to want to hunt it down and move there yourself. Rune and Maya each have other things going on in their lives (gotta read the story, folks; it’s great!) and to me, the way to do that is when they help each other. What a great couple! I feel like I know them. I know that I want to be friends with all these folks.
Maya Badger, Chief of Police of Lost Harbor, is tough and gritty. She’s had to be as the only daughter to Harris Badger. Maya lost her mom as a child, so she knows loss. When her ex breaks up with her on Christmas Eve only to marry a few short months later, she’s devastated. Walls up, no more taking chances on love. She’s firmly in “Team Fun”, not “Team Romance”. But she’s lonely and overwhelmed with her dad’s health issues and the mystery involving The Lost Wilderness. The holiday season is fast approaching with the bazillion holiday parties to attend. Maya vows to NOT endure another holiday season alone. Even her dating app yields no one of interest! When in walks “Jay-Jay”...
Rune, aka Jay-Jay, was always an ornery child. Rune was adventurous, always getting into trouble. While growing up in Hawaii, Rune meets Maya. They were complete opposites in every way, but they fit. Fast forward...Rune and his younger sister Cara arrive in Lost Harbor. Rune, now a home health RN with EMT experience, applied for a job helping to rehabilitate Harris. Maya can’t believe her luck to be reunited with her friend. Not only does Maya accept his help with her dad, but also asks Rune to be her fake boyfriend for the holidays.
This is the perfect ending to the Lost Harbor series! The underlying mystery in all the novels in this series is finally solved. Maggie and Cara’s friendship was so sweet and supportive. The missing yak, the stalker issues, and the bazillion holiday parties were a blast. It was laugh out loud funny! Maya was one of my favorite characters and Rune was her perfect match. Great story! I read a gifted copy and all opinions stated are my own.
Maya Badger has been one of my favorite characters from the Lost Harbor series ever since her appearance in the first book. She is a tough a nails police chief but we all know that she keeps her real self tightly wrapped from the outside world. While her father is home recovering from his heart attack Maya hires a private nurse from a agency but she never expected to see her childhood friend Rune Larsen. Rune and Maya spent one magical year in Hawaii as pre-teens and never forgot the girl that took a piece of his heart back to Alaska. He and his sister have a problem and when the opportunity to work in Alaska and reconnect with Maya occurs he jumps on that chance. Their story might be my favorite of the series. Rune and Maya have the type of connection that only occurs while you are young and free to embrace life as only children can. If you haven't read the previous books in the series I recommend going back to the beginning because there is an underlying mystery that has been a part of the series since the third book and that mystery is finally resolved in Maya and Rune's story. Head over Heels for the Holidays was funny, whimsical, spicy, sweet and full of love for all things Lost Harbor. It was told from dual POV and I recommend not only this book but the entire series as well.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book to leave an honest review. I have read almost the entire series and have thoroughly enjoyed all of the characters and storylines. Bernhard has a great writing style and interjects perfect amounts of humor and romance into the books.
This book follows Maya, an African American police chief in small town Alaska, and Rune, a travel nurse. So when Rune first shows up, Maya doesn't realize that he is actually an old friend that she had when we was young and lived in Hawaii for a year with her father. When she realizes that, she is ecstatic to see him and the feeling is definitely mutual between the two. Both are wildly attracted to each other but both aren't willing to take things further for multiple reasons. Rune is only in town temporarily because his younger sister has a stalker that keeps them on the move about every 6 months; so a romantic relationship doesn't fit into that lifestyle. Maya is afraid to lose Rune's friendship, of being hurt and opening up. Between the craziness of being a police chief, a stalker in the picture and a mystery in the Alaskan wilderness involving crime rings, there is a lot going against these two.
Overall a great read. The whole series is fun and has great plots, humor and romance.
Maya Badger is the Lost Harbor. Alaska Police Chief. Having been severely burned by love before, she stays happy with her job, dad and friends. She has hired a Home Care nurse to help care for her father who is home after a heart attack and surgery. Rune Larson is her childhood friend, Jay-Jay. Maya only figures this out when she goes home to meet the nurse who will be caring for her dad. This really throws her for a loop because, he was her first crush and, one she never got over. Rune also brings his sister, who has been dealing with a dangerous stalker and, has been moving all over the U.S. for quite while as his sister's stalker usually only takes around 6 months to find her. He's praying that hiding in his home town in Alaska will give him and her a longer time to feel safe before the stalker finds them again. Maya and Rune have an instant, explosive reaction to seeing each other again and, that's a problem. He's her Dad's Nurse and, his sister has a stalker they're trying to hide from. This is a not able to put down once you start it book soooo,-get comfortable before you start reading!
Maya is the police chief of Lost Harbor. Rune is a childhood friend she met while vacationing in Hawaii. Rune is a travel LPN who is helping take care of Harris, Maya's dad, who had a heat attack in the previous book. Maya is on a dating freeze, she was dumped by her boyfriend 5 years ago, and hates dating. The girls tell her to date Rune while he is here, but she starts avoiding him. She decides to ask him to be her fake holiday boyfriend, where they go to parties together. He agrees, and they go to plenty. Rune's sister Cara is a 17 year old senior in high school. They move around because she has a stalker. She first was friendly to him, and he took it too far. They are stil looking out for him, because he keeps finding them. Maya knows what is going on and also on the lookout. We see Maggie, or S.G. as she used to be know, in this book. She becomes friends with Cara. Maya sets us a meeting for Maggie to meet her Mom, Kelsey. People are hurt, Maya says important words, people are ok, and everything is cleared up at the end of the book.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Head over Heels for the Holidays is a continuation of the story of the residents of Lost Harbor, Alaska. This series is great for binge reading during this time when we need to stay home.
Maya Badger, police chief of Lost Harbor has hated the holiday season since her ex-fiancé dumped her on Christmas Eve five years ago. The small town of Lost Harbor is a close knit community that loves festivals and celebrations during the Christmas season. Maya is not looking forward to all the festivities. She must attend them because of her position as Chief of Police. She is not looking forward to attending alone again this year.
Rune Larsen and his younger sister, Cara, are hiding from a man who is stalking Cara.. Rune is a childhood friend of Maya’s. They played together on the beaches in Hawaii. They haven’t seen each other since Maya and her father moved to Alaska when she was nine years old.
Ms. Bernard has created a gripping story with realistic characters and plenty of action to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Head Over Heels for the Holidays is Book 7 in the Lost Harbor, Alaska series. It can be read as a stand-alone, but you will want to read the whole series and meet all the residents of Lost Harbor.
This is the story I think we’ve all been waiting for! We finally get to see Maya Badger fall in love and boy did this story not disappoint. We’ve gotten to know Maya very well in all of the other Lost Harbor books and you just know that it’s going to take a special man to get her to let her walls down and let someone in. Enter Rune Larsen. Turns out Maya and Rune became friends when they were just kids while both were living in Hawaii. Now he’s in Lost Harbor with his sister and he also just happens to be Maya’s dads new nurse. I loved how these two just seemed to pick their friendship right up and they were so relaxed and open with each other. Rune brought out the humor in Maya, which she really needed and Maya in turn gave Rune and his sister some much needed support and security. This story gives you a little bit of everything, romance, humor, and a little suspense and excitement. I’m glad that we finally learn the secret behind Lost Wilderness and Maggie’s parents. Another great story in the Lost Harbor series.
Yay! Chief Maya Badger finally gets her own HEA. I’ve been waiting for this story since we first met Maya. I love her strong bada$$ character so much!! If there was one person who deserved to have someone fall in love with her whole-heartedly and want to take care of her for a change, it’s Maya who has been keeping Lost Harbor safe and taking care of her dad and basically nothing else for a while now. And all of those things were very satisfying to her except now her friend group had all found their people and it’s also the holidays, a time she does not really care for anymore. Enter Rune Larson and his young sister Cara. Everything changes for Maya when they come into her life. I loved every moment of this sweet, sexy, funny, and suspenseful story. We finally get the answers we’ve been waiting for about Maggie’s mother and her father and what the heck has been happening in the LH wilderness. We also get to watch Maya fall “head over heels” for Rune and vice versa, which is just the best!! I loved it!!
From the first book in this series, Maya stole every scene she was in. I wanted to know her story from literally the first book, and I was beginning to be concerned that there wouldn't be a man able to match her. Maya is the definition of an amazing woman who gets stuff done, so what man wouldn't be completely intimidated by her and still be all that she deserves? Well, hello, Rune. I don't know how the author came up with him, but he is absolutely Maya's soul mate. I loved that they knew each other as kids and that he is a first-responder so understands Maya's career. But mostly I loved that Maya and Rune have so much fun together. I am still chuckling over the yak situation! I love a couple who bring out the best in one another and become something stronger than they could be apart, so I really love this pair. Also, if you have been following the S.G. plot, you have to read this one. There are lots of answers in here, and I found that very satisfying. All in all, I had sky-high expectations for Maya's story, and it was even better than I hoped.
Since the beginning of this series six books ago I’ve been eagerly anticipating the romance of Maya Badger, police chief of the sleepy town of Lost Harbor, Alaska. Maya is small but mighty, and just a little terrifying, as she keeps law and order and serves and protects her small coastal town.
The arrival of snow ushers in the winter festival season of Lost Harbor, bringing with it someone special from Maya's past. But along with the arrival of her childhood friend, Rune, comes a threat that has Maya on edge.
Lost Harbor is one of those book worlds I love getting lost in and feels like coming home with each new book. It's especially intriguing with all the winter festivals they hold, as well as the element of suspense that has run throughout the series and is resolved in this book.
While it may be wintertime in this book world, the characters are charming and vibrant, the suspense is riveting, and the romance is heartfelt and red hot. So get cozy and warm in your favorite reading spot and let Lost Harbor take you away!
Head Over Heels for the Holidays is the seventh book in Jennifer Bernard’s Lost Harbor series. This series has been leading up to this point since the very beginning. We finally discover what the mystery of Lost Souls Wilderness is all about.
Maya Badger, who is the police chief, rediscovers a friend from her childhood. She’s thankful when Rune Larsen turns up to be her father’s nurse. Her was her best friend when she lived in Hawaii. Rune is on the run trying to protect his sister from a stalker. Rune hasn’t forgotten Maya. As the suspense grows between uncovering the mystery at Lost Souls and the stalker, Rune and Maya grow closer.
Will Rune break down Maya’s barriers from a previous affair? Will Maya discover the secrets behind Sprouse Grouse’s parentage?
Head Over Heels for the Holiday is a wonderful story. Ms. Bernard treats her readers to many of the characters from past books. I highly recommend this book and all of the books in the series. I received an advance copy and chose to read and review it. This is my honest review.
Romance Author Jennifer Bernard has “wrapped up” her latest Lost Harbor, Alaska book…literally “with a bang”! The Head Over Heels for the Holidays book is a great blend of romance, suspense, friendships, and healing.
I have absolutely adored Police Chief Maya Badger since the beginning of The Lost Harbor series! I was so glad hers was the holiday story. Being reunited with someone from her past while trying to solve the mystery of someone else’s past, put a wonderful twist on a regular holiday storyline. For Maya to have endured the last five years since that fateful holiday night was enough to make anyone anti-romance…but maybe Rune Larson AKA Jay-Jay, her father’s new travel nurse, will help her come around.
This storyline was wonderful with all of the twists and different elements throughout, and the characters (new and other Lost Harbor residents continuing in this series) are so wonderful! I felt completely engaged in this potential relationship and especially loved Maya’s character! 5 wonderful stars!
Jennifer Bernard’s 7th trip to Lost Harbor, Alaska does not disappoint! You’ll enjoy this latest trip to Alaska and revisiting old friends as well as make new ones. Maya Badger, Police Chief of Lost Harbor, Alaska finally meets her perfect match - again. When childhood friend Rune Larsen turns up in Lost Harbor, he is just what Maya needs. Their friendship was strong as children but it evolves into more, adding much needed laughter and love into Maya‘s life. Rune brings his sister Cara along and another mystery. Cara has a stalker! This book is not just about Maya and Rune’s relationship. Come along with them and some of their friends on a trip to resolve the mystery of SG’s past and you may just run into a psychopath stalker! What a great way to spend the day - with friends in Lost Harbor, Alaska!
For six books we have watched Maya keep law and order in Lost Harbor. Always in the background, this police chief captured my heart and I was so excited for her to get her story!
Maya had her heartbroken five years ago and decided that her job, her father and her friends were all she needed. When an old friend comes to town she is happy to reconnect. Rune is on the run with his sister, Cara. Trying to keep Cara safe has been Rune's only focus for the past two years. As Rune and Maya renew their friendship, they realize their connection as adults is so much stronger than before. But Rune is only in Lost Harbor temporarily and Maya is desperate to protect her heart from being broken again.
I loved Maya and Rune's story! They had an amazing connection and I loved how he brought down her walls while still respecting her boundaries. Another great addition to this series!!
It's hard to imagine any book being better than the one you just read...until the next one in the series comes out. That is what is happening with the Lost Harbor series by Jennifer Bernard. I am so in love with the whole lot of characters. From the innocent (Cara and Maggie) to the eccentric (Boris)...I find myself being drawn in more and more with each passing book. Head over Heels is no exception. Contains the exact perfect amount of laughs, romance, heat and drama. Its great that she creates stories that can be read as a stand alone or binge read together so the stories all flow in sync. I have to say, I think this is the best book yet in the series. Well done, Ms. Bernard....well done. And thank you for continuously putting out such great stories and characters. Thank you.
I've really enjoyed getting to know police chief Maya Badger over the course of Jennifer Bernard's Lost Harbor series, so to say that I have looked forward to her story might be something of an understatement. "Head Over Heels for the Holidays" more than lived up to my expectations, delivering a well-crafted slow burn, friends-to-lovers romance and a fast-paced plot with a nice touch of intrigue and suspense. Maya and her love interest, Rune, were so cute together! I enjoyed their banter and the stories they shared of childhood days in Hawaii. Maya has always seemed so tough and no-nonsense in previous books, and it was fun to see a different side of her with Rune when she finally lowered her defenses and let him in.
In addition to the central romance between Maya and Rune, I really enjoyed the aspects of the plot related to the investigation of criminal activity in Lost Souls Wilderness and the pursuit of Rune's sister Cara's stalker. I felt so bad for Cara; it's not fair for anyone to have to experience such trauma, but the fact that Cara was so young when the stalking began made it seem even worse to me. Cara herself was delightful, however, and I loved that she was able to remain so positive despite the challenges she faced. Her friendship with Maggie, the teenager who had been kidnapped as a baby and raised in isolation in Lost Souls Wilderness, was a highlight of the book for me. It was great to see them acting like normal teenagers for a while, having sleepovers and worrying about grades and boys.
Overall, "Head Over Heels for the Holidays" was a fast-paced, funny, and sweet story with the perfect amount of steam. I highly recommend it for all fans of contemporary romance and look forward to Jennifer Bernard's next release.
*Review copy provided by the author via InkSlingerPR. All opinions expressed are my own.
What a Grande Finale to the Lost Harbor Series! At last Police Chief Maya Badger gets her turn. She reunites with her childhood friend from Hawaii, Jay-Jay, now called Rune, who turns out to be the nurse she hired to take care of her father, after heart surgery. Rune is on the run from a stalker who has been following his sister for to years.
This is a slow burn romance, but as always Ms Bernard keeps us intrigued and in suspense throughout the book. And what a book! So many puzzle pieces fitting together and riddles solved in the Lost Souls Wilderness after all this time. There is a lot of sizzle and it end with a Big Bang. And happiness, not for Rune and Maya only. Once you get started, I bet you will read it in one sitting. Like I did!