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Geek Girl #5
Bekent kleur
Harriet Manners knows many facts:
Fourteen squirrels were once detained as spies.
Snakes and Ladders and Chess were both invented in the same county.
Astronauts' hearts become rounder in space.
And for once, she knows exactly how her life should go. If only everyone else would stick to the plan...
Fourteen squirrels were once detained as spies.
Snakes and Ladders and Chess were both invented in the same county.
Astronauts' hearts become rounder in space.
And for once, she knows exactly how her life should go. If only everyone else would stick to the plan...
352 pages, Paperback
First published April 7, 2016
203 people are currently reading
4320 people want to read
About the author
Holly Smale
34 books2,300 followersHolly is the Number One bestselling, multi-award winning author of the GEEK GIRL series.
She fell in love with writing at five years old, when she realised that books didn't grow on trees like apples. A passion for travel, adventure and wearing no shoes has since led her all over the world: she has visited 27 countries, spent two years working as an English teacher in Japan, volunteered in Nepal, been bartered for in Jamaica and had a number of ear-plugs stolen in Australia, Indonesia and India.
Holly has a BA in English Literature, an MA in Shakespeare, and currently lives in London or at @holsmale.
The GEEK GIRL series has been an internationally bestselling no1. smash-hit. It won the Waterstones Teen Prize of the Year and the Leeds book award, was shortlisted for the Roald Dahl Funny Prize and the Branford Boase award, and was long-listed for the Carnegie.
She fell in love with writing at five years old, when she realised that books didn't grow on trees like apples. A passion for travel, adventure and wearing no shoes has since led her all over the world: she has visited 27 countries, spent two years working as an English teacher in Japan, volunteered in Nepal, been bartered for in Jamaica and had a number of ear-plugs stolen in Australia, Indonesia and India.
Holly has a BA in English Literature, an MA in Shakespeare, and currently lives in London or at @holsmale.
The GEEK GIRL series has been an internationally bestselling no1. smash-hit. It won the Waterstones Teen Prize of the Year and the Leeds book award, was shortlisted for the Roald Dahl Funny Prize and the Branford Boase award, and was long-listed for the Carnegie.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 279 reviews
April 10, 2023
I'm head over heels for this book. It's my favorite so far in the series. Bunty is back. Rin comes to visit. Baby Tabitha is coming into her own fabulousness. Most of all, Harriet is growing and learning about being a friend and why she wants so much control of all the events in her life. As usual, chock full of trivia on a multitude of subjects as Harriet's mind makes connections at lightning speed. She is learning to wear her colors on the outside! Way to go, my baby baby panda! 🐼🌟
February 20, 2017
Geek Girl is one of my favourite series and I've always heralded 'Model Misfit', the second book, as the best. 'Head Over Heels' is JUST as good. The series is definitely getting better, and I can't believe how much Harriet has grown over the course of five books.
'Head Over Heels' is all about Harriet having a friendship group. It's lovely to see her surrounded by people who care about her, but friendship has its ups and downs and Harriet's struggle to make things perfect is really visible.
Unfortunately, Lion Boy doesn't make any reappearances in this book (boohoo) but Rin, from 'Model Misfit' does. There are lots of cute references to Hello Kitty and Rilakkuma as a result and it was heavenly.
I feel like Harriet's never been in a better place than where she is in 'Head Over Heels'. Her family is cute, her friends are loyal and there's even a bit of love in the air...along with some excellent modelling shoots around the globe, as per usual.
Gosh, I just love Harriet and all the mischief she gets up to. And the fact that there's going to be a SIXTH book is AMAZING. I need it. Right. Now.
'Head Over Heels' is all about Harriet having a friendship group. It's lovely to see her surrounded by people who care about her, but friendship has its ups and downs and Harriet's struggle to make things perfect is really visible.
Unfortunately, Lion Boy doesn't make any reappearances in this book (boohoo) but Rin, from 'Model Misfit' does. There are lots of cute references to Hello Kitty and Rilakkuma as a result and it was heavenly.
I feel like Harriet's never been in a better place than where she is in 'Head Over Heels'. Her family is cute, her friends are loyal and there's even a bit of love in the air...along with some excellent modelling shoots around the globe, as per usual.
Gosh, I just love Harriet and all the mischief she gets up to. And the fact that there's going to be a SIXTH book is AMAZING. I need it. Right. Now.
May 9, 2021
Holly Smale back at it again with the five star reads. Head Over Heels was absolutely everything I wanted from the fifth instalment in the Geek Girl series. It had CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT - finally Harriet is maturing! BUDDING ROMANCE - it seriously couldn't get any better than this. FRIENDSHIP DRAMA - Harriet finally has more friends! BUNTY - enough said. EXOTIC DESTINATIONS - I seriously love how Harriet's modelling has taken her all over the world, because it means we're bombarded with a ton of facts about fascinating countries. And most importantly THE PROMISE OF A SIXTH BOOK! - and from the brief hint of what's going to happen when they get there it looks like it's going to be a truly wild ride of emotions. Can I have it now please?
April 8, 2016
*Proceed with caution - spoilers ahead. ANDDDDDD fangirl drama*
Holy Moley, Guacamole! It being past midnight, might give you a clue of how ridiculously fangirlish this review is going to be. I'm sorry, but I'm not, because it's totally called for! SUGAR COOKIES, THIS BOOK WAS AMAZING!
You know how most people admit that when reading books, they hardly ever laugh out loud? Well, I did in this - so many times! I sounded inhuman, I was that happy ;)
I know people have been worried about the new love-interest, but although I love Nick *cries* I'm totally digging Jasper - he just makes me squee with happiness because he's so genuine and let's face it, we share the same crude humor. Mind you, I wish I was as funny as Richard Manners, because if anyone asks, he's my spirit animal. He is literally my life right now - the best fictional dad of all time, I swear!
CAN WE TALK ABOUT THAT ENDING?!! *spoiler alert*
Australia, guys. Australia. Maybe we have a Nick and Jasper meeting in our future...I'm expecting a hell of a lot of drama, though! OHMYSWEETSUGARCOOKIES I'm so excited! (And I just can't hide it ^.^)
And then there's Toby and Rin! I didn't see that coming, but I'm so happy!!!!! Ahhhhhhhh!!!!!
Holy Moley, Guacamole! It being past midnight, might give you a clue of how ridiculously fangirlish this review is going to be. I'm sorry, but I'm not, because it's totally called for! SUGAR COOKIES, THIS BOOK WAS AMAZING!
You know how most people admit that when reading books, they hardly ever laugh out loud? Well, I did in this - so many times! I sounded inhuman, I was that happy ;)
I know people have been worried about the new love-interest, but although I love Nick *cries* I'm totally digging Jasper - he just makes me squee with happiness because he's so genuine and let's face it, we share the same crude humor. Mind you, I wish I was as funny as Richard Manners, because if anyone asks, he's my spirit animal. He is literally my life right now - the best fictional dad of all time, I swear!
CAN WE TALK ABOUT THAT ENDING?!! *spoiler alert*
Australia, guys. Australia. Maybe we have a Nick and Jasper meeting in our future...I'm expecting a hell of a lot of drama, though! OHMYSWEETSUGARCOOKIES I'm so excited! (And I just can't hide it ^.^)
And then there's Toby and Rin! I didn't see that coming, but I'm so happy!!!!! Ahhhhhhhh!!!!!
July 4, 2017
5 Words: Friendship, family, modelling, loyalty, humour.
The warm fuzzies just came and smacked my across the head as I finished this book. So many POSSIBILITIES. And I can't wait for the next book, however long that wait may be. I could happily keep reading about Harriet forever.
This was, as always, a super quick read for me. There's something about the Geek Girl books that just sucks me right in, I can't NOT devour them.
Harriet and her family are just the best. In Head Over Heels, Harriet changes immensely. She grows up a lot. But she is still hilarious and I just want her to be my BFF.
I kind of missed Wilbur in this book. I mean, he's there, he's still pretty central, but he's missing his spark. It's all for a good reason though, and it's Wilbur finding his cray-cray spark back that gave me most of the warm fuzzies.
I received a copy of this for free via NetGalley for review purposes.
The warm fuzzies just came and smacked my across the head as I finished this book. So many POSSIBILITIES. And I can't wait for the next book, however long that wait may be. I could happily keep reading about Harriet forever.
This was, as always, a super quick read for me. There's something about the Geek Girl books that just sucks me right in, I can't NOT devour them.
Harriet and her family are just the best. In Head Over Heels, Harriet changes immensely. She grows up a lot. But she is still hilarious and I just want her to be my BFF.
I kind of missed Wilbur in this book. I mean, he's there, he's still pretty central, but he's missing his spark. It's all for a good reason though, and it's Wilbur finding his cray-cray spark back that gave me most of the warm fuzzies.
I received a copy of this for free via NetGalley for review purposes.
April 9, 2016
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
In Head over Heels, Harriet has accepted that the model life just isn't for her. She's very happy just studying her A Levels, with her new group of friends: Nat, Toby, Jasper, and India. The five of them are the best of friends, and Harriet doesn't need anything to disrupt this. Obviously, something does. She gets a phone call, out of the blue, from Wilbur, who has started his own modelling agency, and wants her to be the face of his company. Harriet is apprehensive, but when she realises just how much Wilbur needs her, she'll do anything, including roping baby Tabitha into modelling too. To top it all off, there's some romance in the cards too.
Wow, this was hands down my favourite of all five of the Geek Girl books, so far! Harriet just keeps getting better and better. I adore her quirkiness, and she really reminds me of myself when I was her age, though she's so much smarter than me. She isn't the best at making new friends, but the ones she has are there for her, and she would do anything for them. Same with her family - yeah, she sort of babynaps Tabitha to take her modelling, but only so she can help Wilbur, and the bairn loves it too.
The action was all in England this time, which was a nice change. I've enjoyed seeing the various exotic locales in previous books, but there's something about England, especially historical sites such as Hampton Court (which I would love to visit someday), that immediately makes me happy.
Like I said, there's romance in Head Over Heels, and though Lion Boy Nick hasn't come back, I proper swooned at it. For someone so smart, Harriet is completely clueless when it comes to reading social cues, and she doesn't even realise that someone cares for her, and really fancies her, until it's right in front of her. Really, she even tries to set this guy up with someone else, thinking that's the best. The side romance between two of the other characters, too, was really lovely to read, and I hope it's explored further in book 6.
Speaking of book 6 - it's the last one, sad face ;'( - what was with that ending?! There hasn't been a real cliffhanger in any of the books before, but, just be warned, there's one hell of a cliffhanger in Head Over Heels. I'm getting myself prepared for a lot of angst ahead, as there's no way that revelation can mean anything but.
Even with the cliffhanger, I adored the whole book. I read it all in about 5 hours, as I was flying to New York for my birthday, and the flight flew by, pun intended. I can't believe how much Harriet has grown throughout the series, and knowing there is only one book left is really sad. I'm dying to get my hands on book 6, and would urge anyone who hasn't started this series, or has, but isn't up to date, to rectify this immediately. The Geek Girl series is one of my all time favourite UKYA series, and I'll always recommend it to anyone.
In Head over Heels, Harriet has accepted that the model life just isn't for her. She's very happy just studying her A Levels, with her new group of friends: Nat, Toby, Jasper, and India. The five of them are the best of friends, and Harriet doesn't need anything to disrupt this. Obviously, something does. She gets a phone call, out of the blue, from Wilbur, who has started his own modelling agency, and wants her to be the face of his company. Harriet is apprehensive, but when she realises just how much Wilbur needs her, she'll do anything, including roping baby Tabitha into modelling too. To top it all off, there's some romance in the cards too.
Wow, this was hands down my favourite of all five of the Geek Girl books, so far! Harriet just keeps getting better and better. I adore her quirkiness, and she really reminds me of myself when I was her age, though she's so much smarter than me. She isn't the best at making new friends, but the ones she has are there for her, and she would do anything for them. Same with her family - yeah, she sort of babynaps Tabitha to take her modelling, but only so she can help Wilbur, and the bairn loves it too.
The action was all in England this time, which was a nice change. I've enjoyed seeing the various exotic locales in previous books, but there's something about England, especially historical sites such as Hampton Court (which I would love to visit someday), that immediately makes me happy.
Like I said, there's romance in Head Over Heels, and though Lion Boy Nick hasn't come back, I proper swooned at it. For someone so smart, Harriet is completely clueless when it comes to reading social cues, and she doesn't even realise that someone cares for her, and really fancies her, until it's right in front of her. Really, she even tries to set this guy up with someone else, thinking that's the best. The side romance between two of the other characters, too, was really lovely to read, and I hope it's explored further in book 6.
Speaking of book 6 - it's the last one, sad face ;'( - what was with that ending?! There hasn't been a real cliffhanger in any of the books before, but, just be warned, there's one hell of a cliffhanger in Head Over Heels. I'm getting myself prepared for a lot of angst ahead, as there's no way that revelation can mean anything but.
Even with the cliffhanger, I adored the whole book. I read it all in about 5 hours, as I was flying to New York for my birthday, and the flight flew by, pun intended. I can't believe how much Harriet has grown throughout the series, and knowing there is only one book left is really sad. I'm dying to get my hands on book 6, and would urge anyone who hasn't started this series, or has, but isn't up to date, to rectify this immediately. The Geek Girl series is one of my all time favourite UKYA series, and I'll always recommend it to anyone.
January 28, 2018
3 stars!
this book was predictable and set up things for the next book that I can already say with certainty I've correctly predicted despite not having started it and Harriet is starting to get really annoying as a character to be quite honest ()
I was going to give this 2.5 stars but the last 20 pages (approximately) with jasper were super cute (I like jasper, okay. he's sarcastic and he scowls a lot but he means well and so he is basically me but a boy except with a love for art instead of books) and also that was a really well-planned cliffhanger so smale definitely deserves an extra half star for it
((I feel bad because I feel like I'm single-handedly lowering the overall ratings for these books because most people who don't really click with the first instalment of a six-book series would just drop the series altogether and move on and I clearly felt from the first book that this series was going to be a bit too juvenile for me, but once I start a series I can't drop it like I always accidentally do with my phone and finishing series is just about the only thing I don't do half-assed in my life so sorry holly smale))
this book was predictable and set up things for the next book that I can already say with certainty I've correctly predicted despite not having started it and Harriet is starting to get really annoying as a character to be quite honest ()
I was going to give this 2.5 stars but the last 20 pages (approximately) with jasper were super cute (I like jasper, okay. he's sarcastic and he scowls a lot but he means well and so he is basically me but a boy except with a love for art instead of books) and also that was a really well-planned cliffhanger so smale definitely deserves an extra half star for it
((I feel bad because I feel like I'm single-handedly lowering the overall ratings for these books because most people who don't really click with the first instalment of a six-book series would just drop the series altogether and move on and I clearly felt from the first book that this series was going to be a bit too juvenile for me, but once I start a series I can't drop it like I always accidentally do with my phone and finishing series is just about the only thing I don't do half-assed in my life so sorry holly smale))
April 6, 2017
Elke keer dat ik een Geek Girl boek lees voelt het gewoon weer als een hereniging met een goede vriendin. Elk boek is hilarisch, vlot geschreven en bevat de allerleukste trivia. Ik denk dat ik echt nooit genoeg zal krijgen van Harriet Manners.
June 26, 2025
This book was definitely the best among all others in this series❤️❤️❤️
I am Head Over Heels with this series... Loved this💫💖
I am Head Over Heels with this series... Loved this💫💖
November 20, 2016
4.5/5 sterren. Ik vind de Geek Girl serie met het boek leuker worden en zo was dit boek dan ook een groot feestje om te lezen. Enkele op- en aanmerkingen, maar echt een toppertje weer. Zo hilarisch die feitjes!
March 28, 2016
I am a HUGE fan of the Geek Girl series, so I was ridiculously excited to receive a review copy of the latest installment. I will also admit that a lot of things got abandoned for me to read this...books, cleaning, cooking, you get the picture.
Head Over Heels brings us our favourite characters that we love, even Toby, and we also get to see the familiar faces of Jasper and India who have been added to Harriet's list of friends. As usual we get a brief recap from Harriet as she tells us what she has been doing since we last saw her.
We know how super organised Harriet is, and with modeling no longer on the cards, she has a lot of free time to plan a sleepover, with a laminated itinerary of what they will do and when, but Harriet is so busy with her plans she fails to see what her friends are going through. With tests, revision, and painting, it's hard for them to all agree on a date.
Head Over Heels really sees Harriet grow. Modelling was something she fell into, and didn't really have to try when it came to the shoots. But with the return of Wilbur and an overheard conversation, Harriet decides to put on her modeling hat, and go out and try to get a job. I loved getting to see Harriet put herself out there, occasionally with an addition, she is determined to try her best to succeed for Wilbur's sake. and we see what she is truly capable of when she puts her heart and mind into it, something we usually only see with plans and ideas.
Head Over Heels was a book that really shows Harriet's true colours, but also that her friends are willing to go the extra mile to help her. She really has an amazing group of friends, especially one from out of town. We see what friendship means for Harriet, for her friends, and also how Harriet's mind can be changed.
Final Verdict
Head Over Heels was a book I dropped everything for, reading this in a few hours. It was easy to dive back into Harriet's world and revisit old friends. Head Over Heels was an unputdownable read, and needs to be added to your Geek Girl collection.
It took sixteen years, but I finally found them.
People who genuinely want to know that the average London pigeon has 1.6 feet and the soil in your back garden is two million years old......
I finally found my people
Head Over Heels brings us our favourite characters that we love, even Toby, and we also get to see the familiar faces of Jasper and India who have been added to Harriet's list of friends. As usual we get a brief recap from Harriet as she tells us what she has been doing since we last saw her.
We know how super organised Harriet is, and with modeling no longer on the cards, she has a lot of free time to plan a sleepover, with a laminated itinerary of what they will do and when, but Harriet is so busy with her plans she fails to see what her friends are going through. With tests, revision, and painting, it's hard for them to all agree on a date.
Head Over Heels really sees Harriet grow. Modelling was something she fell into, and didn't really have to try when it came to the shoots. But with the return of Wilbur and an overheard conversation, Harriet decides to put on her modeling hat, and go out and try to get a job. I loved getting to see Harriet put herself out there, occasionally with an addition, she is determined to try her best to succeed for Wilbur's sake. and we see what she is truly capable of when she puts her heart and mind into it, something we usually only see with plans and ideas.
Head Over Heels was a book that really shows Harriet's true colours, but also that her friends are willing to go the extra mile to help her. She really has an amazing group of friends, especially one from out of town. We see what friendship means for Harriet, for her friends, and also how Harriet's mind can be changed.
Final Verdict
Head Over Heels was a book I dropped everything for, reading this in a few hours. It was easy to dive back into Harriet's world and revisit old friends. Head Over Heels was an unputdownable read, and needs to be added to your Geek Girl collection.
February 8, 2017
Dit was precies wat ik nodig had
August 8, 2016
I absolutely LOVED the next installment to the Geek Girl series! Harriet is hilarious, and I'm completely loving her story. This one is my favourite so far!
Originally at The Secret Life of a Bookworm
Head Over Heels was another fantastic installment in the Geek Girl series. Ever since I read the first book back in 2013, it became one of my favourite series and I'm always dying to get my hand son the next book to see what Harriet is up to next!
Oh how I adore Harriet! She's so funny and awkward, and she just makes these books so easy to read and love. Again, I loved her constantly spouting facts and just being her general geeky self. She just makes these books so funny and I adore her.
Harriet is a serial planner, and she decides to take it into her own hands to plan all of the meetings with her friends. She has everything mapped out and tries to make all of her friends follow her plans, but her friends are less than happy with her. Also, Harriet finally does something unselfish for once! Go Harriet! Wilbur is in a bad place and Harriet does whatever she can to help him out.
Harriet is still getting over 'Lion Boy' - who I was hoping would appear - but there's also a new relationship brewing that Harriet can't see. She was so oblivious and it was so obvious to the reader and I just wanted her to figure it out!
I adore all of Harriet's friends, and I loved that Rin made an appearance in this one too! She was brilliant in Model Misfit, so I loved getting to see more of them together.
I need the sixth book like now! Harriet is going to have an amazing time in Australia, and I'm anticipating a Nick appearance? Yes? GIVE IT TO ME NOW.
Originally at The Secret Life of a Bookworm
Head Over Heels was another fantastic installment in the Geek Girl series. Ever since I read the first book back in 2013, it became one of my favourite series and I'm always dying to get my hand son the next book to see what Harriet is up to next!
Oh how I adore Harriet! She's so funny and awkward, and she just makes these books so easy to read and love. Again, I loved her constantly spouting facts and just being her general geeky self. She just makes these books so funny and I adore her.
Harriet is a serial planner, and she decides to take it into her own hands to plan all of the meetings with her friends. She has everything mapped out and tries to make all of her friends follow her plans, but her friends are less than happy with her. Also, Harriet finally does something unselfish for once! Go Harriet! Wilbur is in a bad place and Harriet does whatever she can to help him out.
Harriet is still getting over 'Lion Boy' - who I was hoping would appear - but there's also a new relationship brewing that Harriet can't see. She was so oblivious and it was so obvious to the reader and I just wanted her to figure it out!
I adore all of Harriet's friends, and I loved that Rin made an appearance in this one too! She was brilliant in Model Misfit, so I loved getting to see more of them together.
I need the sixth book like now! Harriet is going to have an amazing time in Australia, and I'm anticipating a Nick appearance? Yes? GIVE IT TO ME NOW.
May 8, 2016
BEST.GEEK GIRL BOOK. EVER!!!!!!!!
I so called Harriet and Jasper getting together. When she kissed him I jumped out of my seat screaming "I BLOODY KNEW IT!". It was amazing, and the chapters when she was in India? I could really visualise what was happening.
So here's the BIG question: will Harriet see Nick in Australia? It would be really interesting to see how they act around each other now and what Nick's reaction to Harriet going out with Jasper is. Will he be hurt? Confused? Utterly and completely humiliated because he found out that she was coming to Australia, thought she was still single, and bought her a dozen massive teddy bears and planned a really romantic surprise for her, only to find out that she has a boyfriend and have to hide everything and just pretend to not have known she was coming when he 'runs into her' somewhere?
My guess is as good as yours. I do hope that we get more Jasper + Harriet romantic moments on Skype or something, or maybe when she's leaving at the airport? Or, in memories like when she was dating Nick? Hope so! LOVED this book SO MUCH!
I so called Harriet and Jasper getting together. When she kissed him I jumped out of my seat screaming "I BLOODY KNEW IT!". It was amazing, and the chapters when she was in India? I could really visualise what was happening.
So here's the BIG question: will Harriet see Nick in Australia? It would be really interesting to see how they act around each other now and what Nick's reaction to Harriet going out with Jasper is. Will he be hurt? Confused? Utterly and completely humiliated because he found out that she was coming to Australia, thought she was still single, and bought her a dozen massive teddy bears and planned a really romantic surprise for her, only to find out that she has a boyfriend and have to hide everything and just pretend to not have known she was coming when he 'runs into her' somewhere?
My guess is as good as yours. I do hope that we get more Jasper + Harriet romantic moments on Skype or something, or maybe when she's leaving at the airport? Or, in memories like when she was dating Nick? Hope so! LOVED this book SO MUCH!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2016
This is the first in the series that I have read, and I have to say I found it a warm hearted and engaging read. With Harriet travelling around the globe, you are never short of interesting and unusual information about the countries she is in, which I really loved. Harriet is blessed with a great family and good friends to anchor her. She experiences romance in her life to up the excitement stakes! More than anything else though, I think Harriet is brimful of personality. An absorbing and entertaining read. Thanks to HarperCollins for an ARC via netgalley.
April 20, 2016
God, I love this series so damn much. There better be another book. I'm not ready to say goodbye to these characters yet.
February 6, 2017
Heerlijk om weer terug te zijn. Recensie nu te lezen op http://leesendroom.jouwweb.nl/bekent-...
March 4, 2017
het kan zijn dat ik deel 4 en 5 te snel achter elkaar gelezen heb, maar dit deel voelde al iets meer als een formule. nog steeds onwijs grappig en lief.
Read
February 12, 2017*Stands up straight and says* "
Hi, my name is Rachel, I'm in my thirties, and I am a Geek Girl addict"
Yes I absolutely love this series, and I'm not ashamed to admit it, and Head Over Heels, is no exception, in fact I think they get better and better each book, as the story progresses. As a result I am not the person to tell you if this can be read as a standalone, as frankly it is one of the few series that I feel right at home with the second I start the next book, so can't even work it out from my normally forgetful brain!
I will say as a book in a series, this works, and I loved the development that Harriet goes through in this iteration, and the lessons she is gearing up to realise towards the end. I loved her determination to be a good model this time around, and for completely selfless reasons.
As fans of the series will know Harriet Manners has a habit of slotting random facts into just about every conversation she has, and she is still at it. These range from the interesting to the obscure, but clearly Holly Smale must enjoy researching this element of her character. I really enjoy reading the facts, as they are such an integral characteristic of Harriet.
As is her need to try and make sure everyone she knows is happy, and comes up with the most elaborate plans to ensure it. Her friendship group has grown and Team JINTH is now a thing, and means Harriet like a lot of teenagers (and to be fair a lot of adults) is continually on her phone messaging people.
I love Harriet's friends, they are a mixed bunch but all have certain skills to offer our well meaning main character.
Head Over Heels kept me entertained for the few short hours it took for me to read it, let me enjoy a brand new country in an epic modelling shoot, as well as another modelling shoot that was memorable for other reasons. I have learnt even more about how to try to deceive my parents, with well thought out plans, while enjoying Harriet's rather awkward social interactions with everyone. This is another fabulous addition to this series.
Hi, my name is Rachel, I'm in my thirties, and I am a Geek Girl addict"
Yes I absolutely love this series, and I'm not ashamed to admit it, and Head Over Heels, is no exception, in fact I think they get better and better each book, as the story progresses. As a result I am not the person to tell you if this can be read as a standalone, as frankly it is one of the few series that I feel right at home with the second I start the next book, so can't even work it out from my normally forgetful brain!
I will say as a book in a series, this works, and I loved the development that Harriet goes through in this iteration, and the lessons she is gearing up to realise towards the end. I loved her determination to be a good model this time around, and for completely selfless reasons.
As fans of the series will know Harriet Manners has a habit of slotting random facts into just about every conversation she has, and she is still at it. These range from the interesting to the obscure, but clearly Holly Smale must enjoy researching this element of her character. I really enjoy reading the facts, as they are such an integral characteristic of Harriet.
As is her need to try and make sure everyone she knows is happy, and comes up with the most elaborate plans to ensure it. Her friendship group has grown and Team JINTH is now a thing, and means Harriet like a lot of teenagers (and to be fair a lot of adults) is continually on her phone messaging people.
I love Harriet's friends, they are a mixed bunch but all have certain skills to offer our well meaning main character.
Head Over Heels kept me entertained for the few short hours it took for me to read it, let me enjoy a brand new country in an epic modelling shoot, as well as another modelling shoot that was memorable for other reasons. I have learnt even more about how to try to deceive my parents, with well thought out plans, while enjoying Harriet's rather awkward social interactions with everyone. This is another fabulous addition to this series.
July 10, 2016
This review is of both Head Over Heels and Sunny Side Up.
Oh, what fun it is to see Harriet Manners again! Every time I pick up a new Geek Girl story, I'm transported to a happy place.
Head Over Heels is the fifth book in the series the perfect mix of modelling and the equally as eventful world of Harriet Manners. Team JINTH (Jasper, India, Nat, Toby and Harriet) have it down: they frequently meet at their favourite coffee shop (and have allocated seats) and have pre-planned sleepovers (Harriet has the schedule written up). Harriet's had a difficult time making close friends up until now and so it was great to see her in this dynamic, even though it's not as easy as she might think. And it was lovely to greet the supporting characters we know so well and love, from Wilber (even if he isn't completely himself lately) and Richard (ever the quirky parent) to Rin (still kawaii) and baby sister Tabitha (and potential future model). I had a brilliant time reading Harriet's fifth adventure – this time set in beautiful, colourful India – and didn't want it to end.
But Sunny Side Up helped fill the spot nicely, with Harriet on a trip to Paris Fashion Week. I read it after Head Over Heels, but it actually takes place before the fifth book (a little tip!). It's a short, sweet and fabulous summer novella, with more stunning outfits and hilarious antics. I also enjoyed the extra short: we get to see the first time Lion Boy meets Harriet, from his point of view. I'm ready for you, book six!
Thank you to the publisher for providing this book for review!
I also reviewed this book over on Pretty Books.
Oh, what fun it is to see Harriet Manners again! Every time I pick up a new Geek Girl story, I'm transported to a happy place.
Head Over Heels is the fifth book in the series the perfect mix of modelling and the equally as eventful world of Harriet Manners. Team JINTH (Jasper, India, Nat, Toby and Harriet) have it down: they frequently meet at their favourite coffee shop (and have allocated seats) and have pre-planned sleepovers (Harriet has the schedule written up). Harriet's had a difficult time making close friends up until now and so it was great to see her in this dynamic, even though it's not as easy as she might think. And it was lovely to greet the supporting characters we know so well and love, from Wilber (even if he isn't completely himself lately) and Richard (ever the quirky parent) to Rin (still kawaii) and baby sister Tabitha (and potential future model). I had a brilliant time reading Harriet's fifth adventure – this time set in beautiful, colourful India – and didn't want it to end.
But Sunny Side Up helped fill the spot nicely, with Harriet on a trip to Paris Fashion Week. I read it after Head Over Heels, but it actually takes place before the fifth book (a little tip!). It's a short, sweet and fabulous summer novella, with more stunning outfits and hilarious antics. I also enjoyed the extra short: we get to see the first time Lion Boy meets Harriet, from his point of view. I'm ready for you, book six!
Thank you to the publisher for providing this book for review!
I also reviewed this book over on Pretty Books.
March 26, 2017
YES PLEASEEE! A MILLION STARS TO HEAD OVER HEELS!
I absolutely LOVED this one, it is definitely my favourite in the series so far. The character development that Harriet went through in the last four books was SO BEAUTIFULLY PORTRAYED in this one.. and still Harriet never feels out of character.
This was also by far my favourite modeling adventure. I will never get these pictures out of my head cause I could imagine the situations so vividly. Just absolutely beautiful. I am just so happy and filled with joy!
I absolutely LOVED this one, it is definitely my favourite in the series so far. The character development that Harriet went through in the last four books was SO BEAUTIFULLY PORTRAYED in this one.. and still Harriet never feels out of character.
This was also by far my favourite modeling adventure. I will never get these pictures out of my head cause I could imagine the situations so vividly. Just absolutely beautiful. I am just so happy and filled with joy!
April 27, 2016
Manners, you star!
Full review: https://bookevin.wordpress.com/2016/0...
One of the things that made me like Harriet is that she’s so relatable and awkward that sometimes I do feel for her, when I’m not too busy laughing as I read. In Head Over Heels, I realised how far Harriet has come since she was discovered as a model under a table and now, she’s grown so much and it’s given me an extreme sense of nostalgia for this geek girl.
Full review: https://bookevin.wordpress.com/2016/0...
One of the things that made me like Harriet is that she’s so relatable and awkward that sometimes I do feel for her, when I’m not too busy laughing as I read. In Head Over Heels, I realised how far Harriet has come since she was discovered as a model under a table and now, she’s grown so much and it’s given me an extreme sense of nostalgia for this geek girl.
July 9, 2022
Finally noticed him 😒😒, took her a century to notice. Always trying to organize that you sometimes miss the present spontaneity brings.
I won’t lie, she was beginning to bore me though with all the folder this, arrangement this. I was always shouting “girl, you young enjoy you teen years” 😅😅 but all the same it’s always fun reading about Harriet because you learn from her “did u know”
I won’t lie, she was beginning to bore me though with all the folder this, arrangement this. I was always shouting “girl, you young enjoy you teen years” 😅😅 but all the same it’s always fun reading about Harriet because you learn from her “did u know”
September 15, 2024
I love re-entering Harriet's world and really enjoy seeing all the unreliable threads come
together. It's great fun being ahead of her.
together. It's great fun being ahead of her.
June 30, 2018
This book is everything what i need. It's good to know that there is a person who is as clumsy as me.
June 13, 2022
4 sterren - Nederlandse paperback
Slechts dertien pagina’s heeft Harriet nodig om de lezer volledig terug te brengen naar haar wereld. In één klap weet die, behalve een encyclopedie aan nutteloze wetenschappelijke feitjes: klas vijf is een succes, Harriet heeft een brief aan de universiteit van Cambridge geschreven, ze heeft tot op heden geen modellenwerk gedaan en: ‘Dus nee, ik heb geen vriendje. En nee, ik wil er ook echt geen. Want er zitten ongeveer honderdduizend miljard cellen in het menselijk lichaam en voor het eerst in vijftien jaar zijn die allemaal weer van mij. Volgens mij hoef je verder niet veel te weten.’
Geheel op passende wijze wordt je als lezer met Geek Girl #5 het wijze bos van model Harriet ingestuurd. Volledig in stijl voorziet Smale de lezer van nutteloze know how.
Harriets leven lijkt geweldig. Ze heeft zowaar een vriendenclub, het JINTH-team, en haar ouders lijken gelukkig. Zelf probeert ze in alles controle over haar leven te houden. Tot in detail plant ze uitjes, epische slaapfeestjes en bijeenkomsten. Zelfs de toekomst van haar vrienden wil ze tot in de puntjes regelen en coördineren. Dan gooit de goed neergezette Wilbur wederom roet in het eten.
Gelukkig verstoort hij het tot dan toe fijne leven: ‘Fijne vrijdag, babybuffeltje! Hoe gaat het vandaag met je, fluffy muffin? Ben je nog niet gesmolten in dat veel te vroege zonnetje?’ Compleet over de top en zichzelf overschreeuwend vertelt hij haar dat ze opnieuw uitgenodigd is voor een casting.
Wanneer Harriet ontdekt dat Wilbur in de problemen zit, wil ze nog maar één ding. Of eigenlijk twee: ze wil Wilburs carrière redden en tegelijkertijd haar vrienden behouden. Zij móet het beste model ooit worden: ‘Nee. Ik ga gewoon een professional worden. En ik begin nu.’ Helaas blijkt die opdracht lastiger dan gedacht.
Slechts dertien pagina’s heeft Harriet nodig om de lezer volledig terug te brengen naar haar wereld. In één klap weet die, behalve een encyclopedie aan nutteloze wetenschappelijke feitjes: klas vijf is een succes, Harriet heeft een brief aan de universiteit van Cambridge geschreven, ze heeft tot op heden geen modellenwerk gedaan en: ‘Dus nee, ik heb geen vriendje. En nee, ik wil er ook echt geen. Want er zitten ongeveer honderdduizend miljard cellen in het menselijk lichaam en voor het eerst in vijftien jaar zijn die allemaal weer van mij. Volgens mij hoef je verder niet veel te weten.’
Geheel op passende wijze wordt je als lezer met Geek Girl #5 het wijze bos van model Harriet ingestuurd. Volledig in stijl voorziet Smale de lezer van nutteloze know how.
Harriets leven lijkt geweldig. Ze heeft zowaar een vriendenclub, het JINTH-team, en haar ouders lijken gelukkig. Zelf probeert ze in alles controle over haar leven te houden. Tot in detail plant ze uitjes, epische slaapfeestjes en bijeenkomsten. Zelfs de toekomst van haar vrienden wil ze tot in de puntjes regelen en coördineren. Dan gooit de goed neergezette Wilbur wederom roet in het eten.
Gelukkig verstoort hij het tot dan toe fijne leven: ‘Fijne vrijdag, babybuffeltje! Hoe gaat het vandaag met je, fluffy muffin? Ben je nog niet gesmolten in dat veel te vroege zonnetje?’ Compleet over de top en zichzelf overschreeuwend vertelt hij haar dat ze opnieuw uitgenodigd is voor een casting.
Wanneer Harriet ontdekt dat Wilbur in de problemen zit, wil ze nog maar één ding. Of eigenlijk twee: ze wil Wilburs carrière redden en tegelijkertijd haar vrienden behouden. Zij móet het beste model ooit worden: ‘Nee. Ik ga gewoon een professional worden. En ik begin nu.’ Helaas blijkt die opdracht lastiger dan gedacht.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2016
I’ve been trying to write this review on Head Over Heels since I first read it in April but for some reason I’ve really struggled to find the words. I’ve sat down a few times and I’m still mixed with different feelings. Even now as I write this review I’m still not 100% sure on how I feel so bear with me. I adore Harriet. I adore the series and I’m always so eager to get the next book and start it straight away and Head Over Heels was no different. However, I couldn’t help but feel a little disappointed when I finished it because this really did feel like a filler book. I honestly thought after so many disastrous mistakes on Harriet’s part that she would have learnt her lesson by now and yes, in some ways she does but she still goes about things the wrong way and ends up in a mess all over again – even if her intentions were for the right reasons. Despite that though I do believe by the end of this story Harriet has grown up a little. She’s now embracing her modelling career instead of trying to hide away from it and I did like that she was trying to help a very close friend.
Now, you all know how much of a sucker I am for romance. It’s the main reason I read books. I can’t live without it and as much as this book had romance in it, I didn’t enjoy it one bit! And I’m totally blaming Holly Smale for this one. I just knew when I read All that Glitters that Jasper was going to become a future love interest for Harriet and as much as Jasper is a really nice character I simply didn’t want their romance to happen. And yes that is because of Nick. I know many of you guys are Team Nick so I’m hoping we can all agree that this presence was completely and utterly missed him throughout this book and it just wasn’t the same without him. Am I right? I think so. I understand that sometimes a character has to take certain steps in a story and Harriet’s life is full of drama so why not add more of it into the mix with her love life but Holly Smale made Nick such a huge part of her life and made him so lovable that for me it was hard to move on and enjoy Harriet’s story especially when you know deep down that she is still struggling with their break up. And then, THAT ENDING! I was lost for words when I read that last line. Maybe all hope isn’t lost just yet but I hope Holly doesn’t intend to torment us and give us hope and take it all away again. I guess time will tell when the release of book 6 comes around.
In all, as you can see I had very mixed feelings about Head Over Heels but for me it felt like a filler book and it was definitely my least favourite so hence my three star rating, but I’m hoping book 6 will make up for it as long as Harriet makes the right choices!
Thank you to HarperCollins for giving me the opportunity to review this book in exchange for an honest review.
Now, you all know how much of a sucker I am for romance. It’s the main reason I read books. I can’t live without it and as much as this book had romance in it, I didn’t enjoy it one bit! And I’m totally blaming Holly Smale for this one. I just knew when I read All that Glitters that Jasper was going to become a future love interest for Harriet and as much as Jasper is a really nice character I simply didn’t want their romance to happen. And yes that is because of Nick. I know many of you guys are Team Nick so I’m hoping we can all agree that this presence was completely and utterly missed him throughout this book and it just wasn’t the same without him. Am I right? I think so. I understand that sometimes a character has to take certain steps in a story and Harriet’s life is full of drama so why not add more of it into the mix with her love life but Holly Smale made Nick such a huge part of her life and made him so lovable that for me it was hard to move on and enjoy Harriet’s story especially when you know deep down that she is still struggling with their break up. And then, THAT ENDING! I was lost for words when I read that last line. Maybe all hope isn’t lost just yet but I hope Holly doesn’t intend to torment us and give us hope and take it all away again. I guess time will tell when the release of book 6 comes around.
In all, as you can see I had very mixed feelings about Head Over Heels but for me it felt like a filler book and it was definitely my least favourite so hence my three star rating, but I’m hoping book 6 will make up for it as long as Harriet makes the right choices!
Thank you to HarperCollins for giving me the opportunity to review this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 20, 2016
I find it really hard to review books which are several in in a series. I can never gauge what to say which isn't going to spoil the book but also be helpful.
Therefore I'll say this. Head over Heels was another fun Harriet story which I really enjoyed. She's as quirky as always but you can see that she's finally starting to grow up a bit in this book which I enjoyed seeing. I'm really looking forward to seeing what this will mean for the next books in the series.
If you love the series you'll adore this too.
Therefore I'll say this. Head over Heels was another fun Harriet story which I really enjoyed. She's as quirky as always but you can see that she's finally starting to grow up a bit in this book which I enjoyed seeing. I'm really looking forward to seeing what this will mean for the next books in the series.
If you love the series you'll adore this too.
March 8, 2022
8/3/22: 3.25/3.5 yet to decide
Later on 8/3/22: This series is so cute! Sadly, this book did disappoint me quite a bit, but I think that was mostly to ATG being so great, that I was thinking that they’ll be on the same level. Still, it had a very shocking plot twist, though I wonder how it’ll affect the last book of the series. I’ll be reading “Forever Geek” very soon, so I hope it’ll be a great ending to the series 😭 3.25 ⭐️
Later on 8/3/22: This series is so cute! Sadly, this book did disappoint me quite a bit, but I think that was mostly to ATG being so great, that I was thinking that they’ll be on the same level. Still, it had a very shocking plot twist, though I wonder how it’ll affect the last book of the series. I’ll be reading “Forever Geek” very soon, so I hope it’ll be a great ending to the series 😭 3.25 ⭐️
May 31, 2016
I seriously cannot get over how much Harriet has grown as a person over the course of this series. She feels so very real; I've never experienced a character come to life like this before. Oh, and the fashion shoots are super amazing too, obviously.
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