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Sea Smoke Island #1
Light of Day
Some secrets are buried deep. On Sea Smoke Island, digging them up could cost you everything...including your heart.
Heather McPhee swore she’d keep her distance from Sea Smoke Island—she escaped the reputation of the “messy McPhees” and intended to keep it that way. But when her best friend and podcast co-host vanishes after uncovering a bombshell story on the remote Maine island, Heather has no choice but to go back.
Luke Carmichael also thought he left the drama of his powerful family behind. Banished from their elite resort and raising his daughter on his own, the island constable prefers a quiet life. Until Heather storms back into town, stirring up old ghosts.
As they investigate Gabby’s disappearance, Heather and Luke uncover a generations-old conspiracy tied to the elite Carmichael resort, one someone will kill to protect. And as sparks fly between the messy McPhee and the renegade Carmichael, they’ll have to decide what’s worth risking—the truth, their lives… or their hearts.
Because on Sea Smoke Island, some secrets refuse to stay buried. And the truth always comes to light.
Heather McPhee swore she’d keep her distance from Sea Smoke Island—she escaped the reputation of the “messy McPhees” and intended to keep it that way. But when her best friend and podcast co-host vanishes after uncovering a bombshell story on the remote Maine island, Heather has no choice but to go back.
Luke Carmichael also thought he left the drama of his powerful family behind. Banished from their elite resort and raising his daughter on his own, the island constable prefers a quiet life. Until Heather storms back into town, stirring up old ghosts.
As they investigate Gabby’s disappearance, Heather and Luke uncover a generations-old conspiracy tied to the elite Carmichael resort, one someone will kill to protect. And as sparks fly between the messy McPhee and the renegade Carmichael, they’ll have to decide what’s worth risking—the truth, their lives… or their hearts.
Because on Sea Smoke Island, some secrets refuse to stay buried. And the truth always comes to light.
358 pages, Paperback
First published August 26, 2025
22 people are currently reading
4065 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Bernard
88 books1,383 followersJennifer 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.
You can connect with Jennifer online at http://JenniferBernard.net or email her at Jen@JenniferBernard.net.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
August 27, 2025
I love this author’s books, so when she has a new book I can’t wait to read it. We get book one in her new series, Sea Smoke Island, which is set in Maine. This is a page turning, suspenseful read with Heather and Luke as the two main characters. Heather left the island as soon as she could and doesn’t return very often. Luke, the constable, is part of one the wealthiest families on the island, but he’s not welcome at Lightkeeper Inn, his family’s resort. His father, John, kicked him out of the family when he married and had a baby with Carrie Prevost. Heather has a podcast with her friend, Gabby. When Gabby calls telling Heather she needs to get to Sea Smoke Island because of what she’s learned for a story, Heather hesitates. Heather loses her job, so now she decides to go. Gabby is missing though. Grab your copy and see what secrets will come to light and why someone is willing to resort to murder to make sure they don’t. I couldn’t read this book fast enough and I’m already looking forward to book two.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and thisis my voluntary and honest review.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and thisis my voluntary and honest review.
August 23, 2025
My heart was racing during the last quarter of this book 🫣 The suspense held me in a tight grip and I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to figure out the truth while the characters tried to solve the case. Light of Day is a great start to a thrilling new series!!
Heather McPhee doesn't like returning home for lots of reasons, but when her best friend and fellow podcaster, Gabby, goes missing, on the very island that Heather doesn't like to think about, Heather has no choice but to go and search for answers and hopefully find her best friend still alive.
Life on Sea Smoke Island is fairly uneventful. As the island constable, Luke Carmichael enjoys his quiet life, that was until Heather McPhee returned home and turned his world upside down. While it is his job to investigate a missing person, having Heather tag along isn't necessarily part of it. However, he enjoys her company and passionate spirit and he can't remember the last time he enjoyed someone's company quite so much. Even if she doesn't decide to stay he won't regret the time he spent with her. I have to say, I liked both characters a lot!! Totally rooting for them, when I wasn't trying to solve the overall mystery. 🙃
Luke and Heather embark on an investigation that leads them from one mystery to another and eventually to the biggest case either of them have ever stumbled upon. It opens up generational questions about the very island they grew up on making Heather question everything and everybody.
Light of Day is a non-stop, suspenseful, thrill ride, which meant the sparks were subtle at first between Luke and Heather, but I never once doubted that they were there. The story itself was just very intense which didn't lead a lot of wiggle room for passionate moments, but I loved that they found them when they could. 😉🥰
I loved how the book wrapped up with the prospect that we would hear more from this sea island community, which is an exciting thought. 😀 I'm already a huge fan and can't wait to return.
Heather McPhee doesn't like returning home for lots of reasons, but when her best friend and fellow podcaster, Gabby, goes missing, on the very island that Heather doesn't like to think about, Heather has no choice but to go and search for answers and hopefully find her best friend still alive.
Life on Sea Smoke Island is fairly uneventful. As the island constable, Luke Carmichael enjoys his quiet life, that was until Heather McPhee returned home and turned his world upside down. While it is his job to investigate a missing person, having Heather tag along isn't necessarily part of it. However, he enjoys her company and passionate spirit and he can't remember the last time he enjoyed someone's company quite so much. Even if she doesn't decide to stay he won't regret the time he spent with her. I have to say, I liked both characters a lot!! Totally rooting for them, when I wasn't trying to solve the overall mystery. 🙃
Luke and Heather embark on an investigation that leads them from one mystery to another and eventually to the biggest case either of them have ever stumbled upon. It opens up generational questions about the very island they grew up on making Heather question everything and everybody.
Light of Day is a non-stop, suspenseful, thrill ride, which meant the sparks were subtle at first between Luke and Heather, but I never once doubted that they were there. The story itself was just very intense which didn't lead a lot of wiggle room for passionate moments, but I loved that they found them when they could. 😉🥰
I loved how the book wrapped up with the prospect that we would hear more from this sea island community, which is an exciting thought. 😀 I'm already a huge fan and can't wait to return.
September 3, 2025
Fun new location for a new series by Jennifer Bernard; the action takes place on an island off the coast of Maine. Heather McPhee of the “Messy McPhees” of Sea Smoke Island, returns home after losing her job at the cable news show Boiling Point when the show was cancelled but she does have a referral from her boss to The New Yorker. In the meantime, her bestie, Gabby called from the island with a lead on a new story for their podcast. The two used the podcast to expose wrong doings and questionable activities.
When Heather gets to the island she can’t find Gabby. Concerned she goes to the constable’s office. The constable turned out to be Luke Carmichael, the estranged son of John Griffin Carmichael III. Although the Carmichaels own the main attraction on the island, the exclusive resort, The Lightkeeper Inn, Luke had gone his own way. After checking in with her mother, Sally, who runs the Bloodshot Eyeball Coffee and Breakfast shop, Heather joins Luke in looking for Gabby.
Lots of action takes place and we get to meet many of the residents of the island. Lots of shady activity is taking place on Sea Smoke Island, especially at the Inn. Luke and Heather explore their attraction to each other while searching for Gabby and uncovering the mystery at the Inn. I don’t think Heather will be applying for that position at The New Yorker now. Really a fun story with a lot of suspense. The story is a fast read, or I was so engrossed I couldn’t put it down. I can’t wait for the next in the series as we get to know more of the residents and explore the history of the island. The story is based on true events that took place on a small island off the coast of Maine. As a history buff and archeologist, I found the story intriguing and suspenseful. Another great story by Jennifer Bernard.
When Heather gets to the island she can’t find Gabby. Concerned she goes to the constable’s office. The constable turned out to be Luke Carmichael, the estranged son of John Griffin Carmichael III. Although the Carmichaels own the main attraction on the island, the exclusive resort, The Lightkeeper Inn, Luke had gone his own way. After checking in with her mother, Sally, who runs the Bloodshot Eyeball Coffee and Breakfast shop, Heather joins Luke in looking for Gabby.
Lots of action takes place and we get to meet many of the residents of the island. Lots of shady activity is taking place on Sea Smoke Island, especially at the Inn. Luke and Heather explore their attraction to each other while searching for Gabby and uncovering the mystery at the Inn. I don’t think Heather will be applying for that position at The New Yorker now. Really a fun story with a lot of suspense. The story is a fast read, or I was so engrossed I couldn’t put it down. I can’t wait for the next in the series as we get to know more of the residents and explore the history of the island. The story is based on true events that took place on a small island off the coast of Maine. As a history buff and archeologist, I found the story intriguing and suspenseful. Another great story by Jennifer Bernard.
September 1, 2025
Light of Day by Jennifer Bernard, book one in the Sea Smoke Island series, was an amazing, emotional, thrilling, romantic suspense, filled with intrigue, and twists and turns that kept me engaged and guessing right up to the very end. Set on the fictional Sea Smoke Island, off the coast of Maine, it is the place where the upper crust of Maine, Connecticut, and other northeastern states vacation; wanting to keep it that way.
After growing up on Sea Smoke Island, Heather McPhee left it for college, coming home only to check on her mother. Heather is from a long line of "Messy McPhee's," meaning her family, for generations have struggled to get by and are known as alcoholics. In Heather's case, she isn't an alcoholic and doesn't conform to keeping your head down and mouth shut. When her best friend and fellow podcaster, Gabby, goes missing while investigating a mystery on the island, Heather blames herself. Knowing she has to go to the island and search for answers, she will hopefully find her best friend still alive.
Luke Carmichael grew up in the luxury of the rich, until being disowned when he married a “poorer” island girl after getting her pregnant. Now divorce, single father Luke loves his daughter Izzy, has a friendly co-parent relation with his ex, enjoys his quiet life, and is the island constable. At least until Heather returned home and turned his world upside down; finding an easy connection, magnetic attraction, and sizzling chemistry between them.
The search for Gabby has Luke and Heather traveling the island and piecing together what Gabby started, embarking on an investigation that leads them from one mystery to another. Murder, arson, and kidnapping were all woven into the biggest case either of them had ever stumbled upon; one that could affect their lives and the history of the island where they grew up. This mystery grabs you, making you feels as if you are investigating with them. Surprises and disappointments are uncovered as Luke and Heather get closer to the answers; finding a dark side to the history of the island. This is such a great book that I am excited for the next book in the series and how the residents recover from the revelations, as well as what's next for the people of Sea Smoke Island.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
After growing up on Sea Smoke Island, Heather McPhee left it for college, coming home only to check on her mother. Heather is from a long line of "Messy McPhee's," meaning her family, for generations have struggled to get by and are known as alcoholics. In Heather's case, she isn't an alcoholic and doesn't conform to keeping your head down and mouth shut. When her best friend and fellow podcaster, Gabby, goes missing while investigating a mystery on the island, Heather blames herself. Knowing she has to go to the island and search for answers, she will hopefully find her best friend still alive.
Luke Carmichael grew up in the luxury of the rich, until being disowned when he married a “poorer” island girl after getting her pregnant. Now divorce, single father Luke loves his daughter Izzy, has a friendly co-parent relation with his ex, enjoys his quiet life, and is the island constable. At least until Heather returned home and turned his world upside down; finding an easy connection, magnetic attraction, and sizzling chemistry between them.
The search for Gabby has Luke and Heather traveling the island and piecing together what Gabby started, embarking on an investigation that leads them from one mystery to another. Murder, arson, and kidnapping were all woven into the biggest case either of them had ever stumbled upon; one that could affect their lives and the history of the island where they grew up. This mystery grabs you, making you feels as if you are investigating with them. Surprises and disappointments are uncovered as Luke and Heather get closer to the answers; finding a dark side to the history of the island. This is such a great book that I am excited for the next book in the series and how the residents recover from the revelations, as well as what's next for the people of Sea Smoke Island.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
September 4, 2025
Light of Day is the kind of romantic suspense that grabs you by the collar from page one and refuses to let go. Jennifer Bernard has woven together a taut mystery with a romance that feels both hard-earned and deeply satisfying, and I found myself just as invested in the secrets of Sea Smoke Island as I was in the fragile, magnetic pull between Heather and Luke.
What I loved most is how grounded the characters feel. Heather’s determination to break free of her family’s reputation—and her reluctant return to the very place she swore off, rang with authenticity. Luke, meanwhile, is a quietly compelling figure: a single father, worn down but not broken, trying to carve out a life of integrity in a place heavy with family shadows. Their chemistry isn’t just sparks-for-show; it feels layered, full of history, grief, attraction, and the possibility of redemption.
The suspense plot kept me turning pages well past bedtime. Bernard strikes that sweet balance where the danger feels real, secrets, conspiracies, the sense that no one is quite safe, but never overshadows the emotional heart of the story. The mystery and romance feed into each other, making every revelation hit harder because of what’s at stake for the characters.
At its core, this is a book about confronting the past, family legacies, buried secrets, and the lies that shape us, and choosing to build something braver, even riskier, in their place. Light of Day delivers both the pulse of a thriller and the warmth of a love story, and by the end I found myself wishing I could linger on Sea Smoke Island just a little longer, ghosts and all.
What I loved most is how grounded the characters feel. Heather’s determination to break free of her family’s reputation—and her reluctant return to the very place she swore off, rang with authenticity. Luke, meanwhile, is a quietly compelling figure: a single father, worn down but not broken, trying to carve out a life of integrity in a place heavy with family shadows. Their chemistry isn’t just sparks-for-show; it feels layered, full of history, grief, attraction, and the possibility of redemption.
The suspense plot kept me turning pages well past bedtime. Bernard strikes that sweet balance where the danger feels real, secrets, conspiracies, the sense that no one is quite safe, but never overshadows the emotional heart of the story. The mystery and romance feed into each other, making every revelation hit harder because of what’s at stake for the characters.
At its core, this is a book about confronting the past, family legacies, buried secrets, and the lies that shape us, and choosing to build something braver, even riskier, in their place. Light of Day delivers both the pulse of a thriller and the warmth of a love story, and by the end I found myself wishing I could linger on Sea Smoke Island just a little longer, ghosts and all.
August 23, 2025
Jennifer Bernard has written a great romantic suspense story with Light of Day! I was turning the pages so fast that I couldn't wait to find out the answers to this mystery. Heather McPhee has been living and working in Boston for several years. She doesn't love her job but she defines herself by working and when her job as a "journalist" comes to an abrupt end, she takes that as a sign to finally agree to meet up with her friend Gabby in Sea Smoke Island, Maine. Heather grew up on Sea Smoke Island and she doesn't have very many fond memories of her family's history there. When Gabby stops answering Heather's calls, she becomes concerned and goes to see the island's constable, Luke Carmichael. Luke's family is not only the wealthiest family on the island, they're also one of the wealthiest families in the country. He's been estranged from them for years and is quite content being the local law enforcement as well as a single father to a wonderful six year old daughter. Not much happens on the island and he likes it that way but things change when Heather busts into his office with news of her missing friend. This begins a roller coaster of a ride for Luke and Heather. Where is Gabby? What was she looking into on Sea Smoke Island? How do the locals fit into this mystery? And why is danger chasing Luke and Heather? Light of Day was a great story. It was told from dual POV and had plenty of suspense, action, laughter, light angst and a bit of heat! I can't wait to read what comes next in this series!
August 26, 2025
This is an incredible, edge of your seat storyline that had me glued to its pages!
Jennifer Bernard does not disappoint with this new series. Sea Smoke Island, off the coast of Maine is just as much a character in the book as the residents with its intense weather, strong ocean currents and varied terrain. The characters in the book are a varied and colorful group of people that fall in two groups, the wealthy elite and the working class. It is a very rigid and controlled divide between the two groups.
Luke Carmichael, constable, divorced and father of daughter Izzy is a man that teeters on that soci0-economic line. Heather McPhee, is from a long line of "Messy McPhee's," meaning her family for generations have struggled to get by and are known as alcoholics. In Heather's case, she isn't an alcoholic and doesn't conform to keeping your head down and mouth shut. I love these two together. They have an easy rapport that eases tension, lightens the mood and is comfortable. Their chemistry is evident even during the most serious of times.
What brings Luke and Heather together is Gabby, Heather's missing best friend. She was on Sea Smoke Island digging up the dark side of the island's history. The search for Gabby has Luke and Heather traveling the island and piecing together what Gabby started. It is an addicting mystery that feels like you are in the thick of things with them. Surprises and disappointments are uncovered as Luke and Heather get closer to the answers.
This is such a great book that I am excited for the next book in the series and how the residents recover from the revelations, as well as what's next for Sea Smoke Island.
Jennifer Bernard does not disappoint with this new series. Sea Smoke Island, off the coast of Maine is just as much a character in the book as the residents with its intense weather, strong ocean currents and varied terrain. The characters in the book are a varied and colorful group of people that fall in two groups, the wealthy elite and the working class. It is a very rigid and controlled divide between the two groups.
Luke Carmichael, constable, divorced and father of daughter Izzy is a man that teeters on that soci0-economic line. Heather McPhee, is from a long line of "Messy McPhee's," meaning her family for generations have struggled to get by and are known as alcoholics. In Heather's case, she isn't an alcoholic and doesn't conform to keeping your head down and mouth shut. I love these two together. They have an easy rapport that eases tension, lightens the mood and is comfortable. Their chemistry is evident even during the most serious of times.
What brings Luke and Heather together is Gabby, Heather's missing best friend. She was on Sea Smoke Island digging up the dark side of the island's history. The search for Gabby has Luke and Heather traveling the island and piecing together what Gabby started. It is an addicting mystery that feels like you are in the thick of things with them. Surprises and disappointments are uncovered as Luke and Heather get closer to the answers.
This is such a great book that I am excited for the next book in the series and how the residents recover from the revelations, as well as what's next for Sea Smoke Island.
September 6, 2025
Another great series has begun! Welcome to Sea Smoke Island, Maine home of the Carmichael’s and McPhee’s. The Carmichael’s known for their money and prestige with the McPhee’s known for their “messy” ways. They did not run in the same circles and definitely did not associate with one another on purpose. What happens when they are forced to though?
Luke Carmichael has been a resident of Sea Smoke from the beginning. He did not like to claim the Carmichael name though. In fact after marrying a local because she got pregnant he was practically written out of the family for the shame he caused. He tried making things right though and found himself as the constable of the small island town.
Heather McPhee was also a local, but she found her way off the island many years ago after suffering from the shame many of her family members became known for. She had always wanted to be a well known journalist and she knew her ticket to that was moving off the island and to New York. No matter if her mother still lived on Sea Smoke.
By the chance of fate Heather found herself returning to Sea Smoke in pursuit of a story her pod casting partner had stumbled upon. What lies ahead is a “messy” story about small town life and the stories that they try to keep hidden. Through in a murder and some kidnapping and you have what turns out to be a page turning story that you cannot put down. Light of Day is the first book in what promises to be the start of an awesome series set in Maine.
Luke Carmichael has been a resident of Sea Smoke from the beginning. He did not like to claim the Carmichael name though. In fact after marrying a local because she got pregnant he was practically written out of the family for the shame he caused. He tried making things right though and found himself as the constable of the small island town.
Heather McPhee was also a local, but she found her way off the island many years ago after suffering from the shame many of her family members became known for. She had always wanted to be a well known journalist and she knew her ticket to that was moving off the island and to New York. No matter if her mother still lived on Sea Smoke.
By the chance of fate Heather found herself returning to Sea Smoke in pursuit of a story her pod casting partner had stumbled upon. What lies ahead is a “messy” story about small town life and the stories that they try to keep hidden. Through in a murder and some kidnapping and you have what turns out to be a page turning story that you cannot put down. Light of Day is the first book in what promises to be the start of an awesome series set in Maine.
August 25, 2025
This was my first of Jennifer Bernard books, received as an ARC for an honest review.
Light of Day is a captivating blend of history, mystery, suspense and romance, all wrapped up in a plot that keeps you guessing until the end.
What really stood out to me is how the story challenges the idea that history is always what we’ve been told. As the characters dig into the past, they uncover truths that flip everything upside down—a powerful reminder that the truth isn’t always written in textbooks, and it’s not always easy to face. It also shows how the actions and secrets of the past can echo across generations, shaping the lives of those who come after.
The story is really well put together—layered, but not confusing. The relationships feel real, the twists are smart, and the pacing keeps you hooked. Light of Day doesn’t just entertain; it makes you think.
As the truth comes out and everything hidden is finally exposed, the title Light of Day takes on powerful significance. It’s a clever and meaningful payoff that ties the whole story together.
If you like your fiction with secrets, romance, and a bit of historical shake-up, this one’s definitely worth reading. A great start to a new series.
Light of Day is a captivating blend of history, mystery, suspense and romance, all wrapped up in a plot that keeps you guessing until the end.
What really stood out to me is how the story challenges the idea that history is always what we’ve been told. As the characters dig into the past, they uncover truths that flip everything upside down—a powerful reminder that the truth isn’t always written in textbooks, and it’s not always easy to face. It also shows how the actions and secrets of the past can echo across generations, shaping the lives of those who come after.
The story is really well put together—layered, but not confusing. The relationships feel real, the twists are smart, and the pacing keeps you hooked. Light of Day doesn’t just entertain; it makes you think.
As the truth comes out and everything hidden is finally exposed, the title Light of Day takes on powerful significance. It’s a clever and meaningful payoff that ties the whole story together.
If you like your fiction with secrets, romance, and a bit of historical shake-up, this one’s definitely worth reading. A great start to a new series.
August 28, 2025
This was a fantastic romantic mystery! Heather is a wanna be journalist working towards her goal of doing what she loves best. So she is less than thrilled when she finds out she has lost her job and is even further from her dream. At the same time she loses her job, her best friend goes missing, forcing her to go back home. Heather hates being back on Sea Smoke Island, because there she spends all her time regressing and trying to be anything but another “Messy McPhee”. When Heather gets to the island she goes to find Luke Carmichael, local constable and family cast out. Luke is one of the sons of the Carmichael family, the local wealthy family that runs the inn on the island, who control most of what happens on the island. Luke was cast out of the inn and his inheritance when he impregnated, married, and divorced a “local girl” from the wrong side of the island. As strange things on the island keep happening Heather and Luke are thrown together investigating. But can Heather trust a Carmichael? This was a great romantic thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat! So glad this is the start of a new series and I’ll get to visit this island again! I received an ARC, and this is my honest review.
August 30, 2025
Things don't start out well for Heather in this one and then they get worse. Yet by the end of the book, you feel like she's healed some old wounds and has found the right direction for her life. But it was tough getting there.
From getting laid off, to realizing her BFF is missing, to having to go home, a place she didn't like growing up due to the way her family was viewed. As Heather works to find Gabby, she teams up with the local constable, who is the black sheep of the "rich" family. Heather gives, Luke quite the side eye at the start, but by the end, they are a thing. It wasn't easy to get there for them as each had to fight the prejudice of their family. Along the way they found out ugly secrets about both of their long ago relatives, secrets people on the island don't want coming out and people and things are paying the price.
When the truth comes out, it's very crazy, along with the people behind things. Of course money is at the root of it all and it's not surprising how greed makes people do stupid things.
From getting laid off, to realizing her BFF is missing, to having to go home, a place she didn't like growing up due to the way her family was viewed. As Heather works to find Gabby, she teams up with the local constable, who is the black sheep of the "rich" family. Heather gives, Luke quite the side eye at the start, but by the end, they are a thing. It wasn't easy to get there for them as each had to fight the prejudice of their family. Along the way they found out ugly secrets about both of their long ago relatives, secrets people on the island don't want coming out and people and things are paying the price.
When the truth comes out, it's very crazy, along with the people behind things. Of course money is at the root of it all and it's not surprising how greed makes people do stupid things.
August 22, 2025
Great start to a new series
This is the first book in the new Sea Smoke Island series and boy was it a good one. This story is so well written and it will keep you on your toes throughout the entire book. Heather McPhee is from Sea Smoke Island and dreads coming there because she feels like her family is just a mess. Then there is Luke Carmichael, his family is the rich and powerful family in the area, however he has been kicked out of his family and doesn’t associate with them anymore. Throw in a little mystery like your best friend disappearing and long buried secrets coming out and like I said, you have yourself one heck of a great story. All the secondary characters in this book were great and really added to the story. I loved everything about this story and cannot wait for the next one.
This is the first book in the new Sea Smoke Island series and boy was it a good one. This story is so well written and it will keep you on your toes throughout the entire book. Heather McPhee is from Sea Smoke Island and dreads coming there because she feels like her family is just a mess. Then there is Luke Carmichael, his family is the rich and powerful family in the area, however he has been kicked out of his family and doesn’t associate with them anymore. Throw in a little mystery like your best friend disappearing and long buried secrets coming out and like I said, you have yourself one heck of a great story. All the secondary characters in this book were great and really added to the story. I loved everything about this story and cannot wait for the next one.
August 24, 2025
Light of Day is a fabulous read. This is book 1 in the new series Sea Smoke Island. This book will keep you on your toes as things on the Island start to unravel. Heather is back on the Island and searching for her friend who discovered secrets of some of the Island families. She's avoided coming home with reason. Luke is outs by his family and is the island constable. Things have been quiet and relaxed until there is a missing person. I love the slow build of chemistry between Luke and Heather. They work so well as a team as they unravel the mysterious things going on and who is behind it all. I love all the twist and turns as secrets start to come out. I cannot wait for more to come in this series. I could not put this down. You need to one click this today and see what is happening on Sea Smoke Island today.
August 24, 2025
5 Star Review Light Of Day (Sea Smoke Island #1) by Jennifer Bernard
I was happy when I heard that Jennifer Bernard had a new series releasing and if Light Of Day is anything to go by, then she is off to a great start.
Set on Sea Smoke Island, Maine, I couldn’t wait to dive into Heather McPhee and Luke Carmichael’s story.
I really enjoy romantic suspense stories and this was a fine example with equal amounts of romance and suspense.
Heather didn’t plan on returning home but when her best friend Gabby and podcast co-host goes missing she had to.
Luke being a single dad just added an additional layer to the story as he helps Heather investigate.
As secrets come to light will they be able to evade the danger? Or will is cost them more than they expect?
Light Of Day was full of intrigue, suspense, and romance; I couldn’t put it down. Cannot wait to read more in the series.
I was happy when I heard that Jennifer Bernard had a new series releasing and if Light Of Day is anything to go by, then she is off to a great start.
Set on Sea Smoke Island, Maine, I couldn’t wait to dive into Heather McPhee and Luke Carmichael’s story.
I really enjoy romantic suspense stories and this was a fine example with equal amounts of romance and suspense.
Heather didn’t plan on returning home but when her best friend Gabby and podcast co-host goes missing she had to.
Luke being a single dad just added an additional layer to the story as he helps Heather investigate.
As secrets come to light will they be able to evade the danger? Or will is cost them more than they expect?
Light Of Day was full of intrigue, suspense, and romance; I couldn’t put it down. Cannot wait to read more in the series.
August 26, 2025
I absolutely loved the Firelight Ridge series, so I am absolutely delighted that Ms Bernard has got off to a flying start with this new series! Light of Day pulled me in from the start with the strong character of Heather and her determination to assign Sea Smoke Island firmly in her rear headlights, despite the frantic pleas from her best friend Gabby. And that is as much as you will get out of me 😁.
This book is full of fabulous characters, a great setting which is described vividly, layers of mystery and history, and a gorgeous MMC in the form of the blue-eyed Luke. The book has a brisk pace, and characters come to life vividly. I felt I got to know them well, alongside the island, which is a character in itself.I am looking forward to more stories from this remote, wind and sea swept isle and its inhabitants. Fabulous 💖💖💖💖💖
This book is full of fabulous characters, a great setting which is described vividly, layers of mystery and history, and a gorgeous MMC in the form of the blue-eyed Luke. The book has a brisk pace, and characters come to life vividly. I felt I got to know them well, alongside the island, which is a character in itself.I am looking forward to more stories from this remote, wind and sea swept isle and its inhabitants. Fabulous 💖💖💖💖💖
August 28, 2025
Light of Day was such a fun story. It's so much fun starting a new series. New people and new stories. Light of Day focuses on Heather and Luke. Heather comes from a "lesser" family on Sea Smoke Island whereas Luke comes from the upper of upper crust families on the "rich" side of the island. Drawn back to Sea Smoke by her best friends disappearance, Heather enlists Luke, the constable, to help her find Gabby. So many mysterious twists and turns bring them together romantically. Plenty of mystery, laughs and romance to be had. All that together makes Light of Day a wonderfully fun book to read. If you haven't been introduced to Jennifer Bernard and her books...grab this one. New, fresh start. You will be happy you did. Looking forward to the next book in the series. Ms. Bernard has a true storytelling talent
September 7, 2025
A new series and location for a new Jennifer Bernard book. Set off the coast of Maine, we find Sea Smoke Island and meet the cast of characters from the island’s founding families, the McPhees and Carmichaels. Heather McPhee has a great life in Boston until she doesn’t and comes back to the island to help her best friend solve a mystery involving the island’s sketchy history. Heather reluctantly returns only to have herself embroiled in a set of issues that can change everything she thinks she knows about herself, her family and the island. Luke Carmichael, town constable and the Carmichael family Black Sheep, loves his life, his daughter and not talking to his family. Together Luke and Heather chase down leads to solve a variety of mysteries surrounding the island’s past, present and future. I loved this story and honestly couldn’t figure out the mysteries as they were solved. An exciting new story and I can’t wait for the next book.
August 26, 2025
A new series by Jennifer Bernard? Yes, please!
Light of Day is the first in the Sea Smoke Island series by Ms. Bernard. Sent on fictional Sea Smoke Island off the coast of Maine, it is the place that the upper crust of Maine, Connecticut, and other northeastern states vacation, and 'they' want to keep it that way!
When Heather, who grew up on the island, is contacted by her best friend Gabby to get to Sea Smoke Island ASAP, Heather is not happy. She doesn't like the island or her growing up years. Then, Gabby goes missing and Heather blames herself. Once she arrives, she locates the local constable, Luke, and they begin the search.
The story intensifies with murder, arson, and kidnapping being woven in with precision! Who is behind all of these issues? Can Luke and Heather figure it out before others are injured? Who is trying to manipulate the history of the island? Will Heather want to stay with Luke on the island or get off as soon as the mystery is solved?
Fast paced and well written, I was intrigued by the story. I can't wait to see how this series progresses!
Light of Day is the first in the Sea Smoke Island series by Ms. Bernard. Sent on fictional Sea Smoke Island off the coast of Maine, it is the place that the upper crust of Maine, Connecticut, and other northeastern states vacation, and 'they' want to keep it that way!
When Heather, who grew up on the island, is contacted by her best friend Gabby to get to Sea Smoke Island ASAP, Heather is not happy. She doesn't like the island or her growing up years. Then, Gabby goes missing and Heather blames herself. Once she arrives, she locates the local constable, Luke, and they begin the search.
The story intensifies with murder, arson, and kidnapping being woven in with precision! Who is behind all of these issues? Can Luke and Heather figure it out before others are injured? Who is trying to manipulate the history of the island? Will Heather want to stay with Luke on the island or get off as soon as the mystery is solved?
Fast paced and well written, I was intrigued by the story. I can't wait to see how this series progresses!
August 25, 2025
Light of Day is single dad Luke Carmichael and Heather Mcphee’s romantic suspense story and it’s the first book in the new Sea Smoke Island Series. It’s a great start to the series and it kept me on the edge of my seat with the twists and turns I didn’t see coming.
Heather had no intention of returning home to Sea Smoke Island but when her best friend and podcast co-host, Gabby goes missing she has to find out what’s happened.
Luke is enjoying a quiet life until his world is turn upside down when Heather returns home but he doesn’t hesitate when she asks for help and the pair start an investigation into Gabby’s disappearance.
What follows is an entertaining read as secrets are revealed and danger rears its ugly head. This is a well written story that I quickly became invested in.
Heather had no intention of returning home to Sea Smoke Island but when her best friend and podcast co-host, Gabby goes missing she has to find out what’s happened.
Luke is enjoying a quiet life until his world is turn upside down when Heather returns home but he doesn’t hesitate when she asks for help and the pair start an investigation into Gabby’s disappearance.
What follows is an entertaining read as secrets are revealed and danger rears its ugly head. This is a well written story that I quickly became invested in.
August 25, 2025
If you are looking for a “lighter” mystery/suspense read…You need to pick this one up!
Author Jennifer Bernard has written this wonderful read that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat one second…and laughing out loud the next.
Heather McPhee heads home to the island she grew up on…one she does not like to revisit, Sea Smoke Island. She wouldn’t have gone back if it weren’t for her friend and fellow podcaster, Gabby.
She “teams” up with the constable, Luke Carmichael to unravel a mystery that includes murder, romance, family, and buried secrets.
This book was one of my favorite romantic mysteries written by this author! Great setting description, great characters, just a great all around read!
4.5 stars from me!
Author Jennifer Bernard has written this wonderful read that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat one second…and laughing out loud the next.
Heather McPhee heads home to the island she grew up on…one she does not like to revisit, Sea Smoke Island. She wouldn’t have gone back if it weren’t for her friend and fellow podcaster, Gabby.
She “teams” up with the constable, Luke Carmichael to unravel a mystery that includes murder, romance, family, and buried secrets.
This book was one of my favorite romantic mysteries written by this author! Great setting description, great characters, just a great all around read!
4.5 stars from me!
August 26, 2025
This is the first in a new series, and this is Heather and Luke’s story.
Heather sworn never to return to Sea Smoke Island, but when her best friends and podcaster Gabby disappears, she has no choice but to return. Luke is a divorced single dad, and law enforcement on the Island, and he and Heather join forces to investigate Gabby’s disappearance.
This is a well written action-packed story, which has family dynamics, friendships, emotions, secrets, mystery, intrigue, danger, suspense, surprises, conspiracy, challenges, twists and turns, revelation, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Heather sworn never to return to Sea Smoke Island, but when her best friends and podcaster Gabby disappears, she has no choice but to return. Luke is a divorced single dad, and law enforcement on the Island, and he and Heather join forces to investigate Gabby’s disappearance.
This is a well written action-packed story, which has family dynamics, friendships, emotions, secrets, mystery, intrigue, danger, suspense, surprises, conspiracy, challenges, twists and turns, revelation, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
August 26, 2025
I’m not sure why this made me laugh so hard but my favorite phrase in this book was “…a member of the Lobster Illuminati”! It was perfectly placed in the prose, too. I’m a New Englander, born and raised, and I truly “got” these locals, especially when I could hear the accents in my head – truly made it fun for me.
There’s mystery and intrigue and some nasty situations and characters. Small towns have their secrets and Sea Smoke Island is no different. Kept me on the edge of my seat! And I loved Heather and Luke. For their own reasons, they both live to overcome expectations (of themselves) and find each other in the process. This is a great start to a new series – already loving it!
There’s mystery and intrigue and some nasty situations and characters. Small towns have their secrets and Sea Smoke Island is no different. Kept me on the edge of my seat! And I loved Heather and Luke. For their own reasons, they both live to overcome expectations (of themselves) and find each other in the process. This is a great start to a new series – already loving it!
August 26, 2025
This is the first book in a new series, Sea Smoke Island. It was interesting to find out how the island got its name and to find out the history of the island and the Inn. That played a big part in the story.
I liked how Heather's dream played into the story and why it had always terrified her for her whole life. I enjoyed the drama surrounding the Lightkeeper Inn and the Carmichael family. They were one of the original families on the island and they were quite wealthy.
The story was wonderfully woven with romance, suspense, secrets, and so much more. I started reading the book and it pulled me in and I could not stop reading until I had finished the last page. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
I liked how Heather's dream played into the story and why it had always terrified her for her whole life. I enjoyed the drama surrounding the Lightkeeper Inn and the Carmichael family. They were one of the original families on the island and they were quite wealthy.
The story was wonderfully woven with romance, suspense, secrets, and so much more. I started reading the book and it pulled me in and I could not stop reading until I had finished the last page. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.
August 31, 2025
Light of Day is the first book in Jennifer Bernard’s new series: Sea Smoke Island. Luke Carmichael is the constable of Sea Smoke Island. He’s a father, divorced and the son of a man who basically controls the island. Heather McPhee grew up on the island. She relocated to the mainland to get away from her family’s past.
When her best friend goes missing, she returns to the island in the hopes of finding her. She meets up with Luke to report her friend missing. They go on an search which leads her to her friend but also to discovering the mystery surrounding Sea Smoke Island.
This was a page turner that I loved from the opening lines. I highly recommend Light of Day and look forward to the next book in the series.
When her best friend goes missing, she returns to the island in the hopes of finding her. She meets up with Luke to report her friend missing. They go on an search which leads her to her friend but also to discovering the mystery surrounding Sea Smoke Island.
This was a page turner that I loved from the opening lines. I highly recommend Light of Day and look forward to the next book in the series.
September 3, 2025
Jennifer Bernard is an auto-read for me. I love her storylines and the way she develops both her main characters and her secondary characters, giving them personalities and quirks that are developed and believable. With her newest series, SMOKE ISLAND, we find ourselves on a small island off the coast of Maine, a new coast and area for her. LIGHT OF DAY, is the first book in the series, and it starts with a bang. Mystery, intrigue, history, secrets, family, and romance, this one has it all. It was a great read to get lost in, when I hit the end, I felt like I had just started. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read an advanced copy. All opinions are my own and freely given.
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read an advanced copy. All opinions are my own and freely given.
October 1, 2025
The first in a new series by Jennifer Bernard. Love meeting the new characters and setting. This one is based on Heather and Luke; both grew up on Sea Smoke Island in Maine, although on different ends. Heather was from the "lesser" side and Luke is from the family that "owns" the island.
Lots of family drama, laughs, mystery and character building in this one. Heather moved away and tries not to come back to the island but when her friend that she co-hosts a podcast with goes missing, she makes the trip to find her. Luke has broken ties with his family and is now the constable of the island. The two team up to figure out what is going on throughout the island as secrets are starting to emerge. Fun twists and turns as you read this story. Great start can't wait to the next one!
Lots of family drama, laughs, mystery and character building in this one. Heather moved away and tries not to come back to the island but when her friend that she co-hosts a podcast with goes missing, she makes the trip to find her. Luke has broken ties with his family and is now the constable of the island. The two team up to figure out what is going on throughout the island as secrets are starting to emerge. Fun twists and turns as you read this story. Great start can't wait to the next one!
August 22, 2025
Luke is the constable on Sea Smoke Island. Heather grew up there, but left as soon as she could. Now she’s back, trying to find her friend who was kidnapped. But that’s just the beginning. So many secrets, so many lies. Family shenanigans and rebuilding relationships. And a murder! This is a great start to a new series by author Jennifer Bernard. The setting sounds beautiful - a Maine coastal island. The characters are well-developed with depth and individuality. The plot twists and turns and keeps you engaged, the past meets the future, and the sparks fly. I really enjoyed this one.
August 25, 2025
Holy smokes! Let me say that the suspense and family dynamics kept me glued to these pages. Light Of Day takes place in Sea Smoke Island, a place where nothing really happens…until it does.
Heather comes to the island in search of her best friend who has gone MIA. Luke is the constable and opens an investigation when Heather comes to him for help. He didn’t plan on her being part of the investigation but as time goes on, these two get closer.
I loved the intrigue that was in this story. There are secrets that someone will do anything to keep quiet and the danger was always there, just lurking under the surface.
Heather comes to the island in search of her best friend who has gone MIA. Luke is the constable and opens an investigation when Heather comes to him for help. He didn’t plan on her being part of the investigation but as time goes on, these two get closer.
I loved the intrigue that was in this story. There are secrets that someone will do anything to keep quiet and the danger was always there, just lurking under the surface.
August 27, 2025
Wow! What a thrilling ride.
Wow! I was so captivated by this book that I read late into the night to finish it. Jennifer Bernard created characters I couldn’t help but fall in love with and a story that kept me on the edge of my seat. I’m excited that this is the start of a new series, with several more books to explore on Sea Smoke Island. Luke and Heather are perfectly matched—he’s the town’s constable from a wealthy family, while she’s the one most likely to stir up chaos. I loved their dynamic and the buildup in their relationship. They were hot once they gave in to each other. I also enjoyed the hints of more to come with this island and its residents.
Wow! I was so captivated by this book that I read late into the night to finish it. Jennifer Bernard created characters I couldn’t help but fall in love with and a story that kept me on the edge of my seat. I’m excited that this is the start of a new series, with several more books to explore on Sea Smoke Island. Luke and Heather are perfectly matched—he’s the town’s constable from a wealthy family, while she’s the one most likely to stir up chaos. I loved their dynamic and the buildup in their relationship. They were hot once they gave in to each other. I also enjoyed the hints of more to come with this island and its residents.
September 4, 2025
Jennifer Bernard really pulls you in right from the start with this story! This story is a page turner keeping you in your toes and making you second guess yourself. Heather is on her way to meet her friend on the island she grew up on. Gabby said some things were going on. What Heather wasn’t expecting was for Gabby to be missing when she got there. Heather runs into Luke who is the constable now. But she’s not sure she can trust Luke because of his last name. Carmichaels basically own the island. Can they trust each other and work together to find Gabby and figure out what is going on, on the island?
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