Cover Reveal – Notes of the Past by Jodie Larson

Title: Notes of the Past
Series: Lightning Strikes #2
Author: Jodie Larson
Release Date: March 20, 2017
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I love women. And it’s easy to see why. Being the lead guitarist for the country’s hottest band, Lightning Strikes, has them practically jumping into my bed and walking out the door just as quick. Which is perfect for me. Emotions complicate things, and I don’t do complicated. Not anymore.

Sure, I was in love once, and it was great. Then it was gone. That’s when I vowed never again. Life is better without empty, broken promises.

After five years of hard work, sacrifices, and determination, everything I’ve ever wanted is in my grasp: a successful career, touring city after city and being accountable to no one.

Then she starts appearing in the crowds. The girl I once loved, and who walked away.

Only, Tatum Mitchell wasn’t just any girl; she was my girl.

Will she be the wedge that drives the last part of my heart away, or will she break down the walls I’ve built? We’re connected through the lyrics of our heart and the notes of our past, but is that enough?

*May be read as a standalone*  

Excerpt for Notes of the Past

Prologue

Sunlight dances across the room as the warm spring breeze carries the scent of the blooming lilacs through the open window. Tatum’s musical laugh hits me as I tackle her to the bed, her blond hair fanning out around her. When I suggested we skip school to stay home all day, I didn’t actually think she’d go along with it. She was hesitant at first, but when I told her my parents were gone, the little devil inside her wanted to come out and play.

And here we are, locked away in our own private oasis where we can be free. In one month, we’ll be free to do this all the time. No more glaring eyes or disapproving faces from the losers at school and the teachers who keep breaking us apart. Why isn’t it appropriate to make out with your girlfriend in the hallway?

I’ve been in love with Tatum Mitchell for ten years. She’s only known about it for two. Now, with senior year coming to an end, we’ll have more carefree days like this. And we won’t have to skip school to be together.

“Myles! Stop! You’re going to make me pee my pants.” I can’t help but continue my assault. Her laughter is addictive. I can never get enough of it.

“No. You’re at my mercy. I’m kidnapping you to be my love slave and obey my every command.”

It’s not entirely a joke. There have been many nights where I’ve dreamed of us going away, leaving everything behind. We’d live off the money from the gigs and random bars we’d play in. Then, one day, we’ll strike it big, get the giant house and recording contracts and live happily ever after.

“Love slave?” She sits up after I relent and pull back. “You need to think of something else because that’s not happening.”

I tap my chin. “Sex slave?”

Tatum narrows her eyes. “Try harder.”

“Mine forever?”

Her glorious smile melts my heart. This woman is my everything. There’s no one on this earth that will ever compare to her. I can’t believe I’ve found the one.

“Definitely yours.” Tatum twirls a finger along my chest, snuggling close to my side. “Since we’re discussing forever, maybe we should actually talk about it.”

Turning my head, I kiss the tip of her nose. “Okay, what should we talk about?”

“Kids. How many?”

“It’s a little early to start thinking of that, isn’t it?” Hell, we’re only eighteen. I’d like to think kids will be way down the road. We need some alone time first.

“Humor me.” Tatum bats her eyelashes, knowing she’s got me where she wants me.

“Well, how many little me’s could you tolerate running after?” I ask, brushing some hair from her face.

She laughs. “If they’re exactly like you? Maybe one. But if they’re like me, probably three.”

“And if they’re a good combination of us both?”

“Then four,” she says with a laugh.

Out of nowhere, images of Tatum pregnant with our child pop into my head. Kids have never been on my radar, but the thought of rubbing her swollen belly and feeling our baby kick brings a smile to my face. It’s the ultimate way to mark her as mine.

Not to mention her boobs are going to be huge for a few years. Added bonus for me.

“Okay, what else?” She runs her hand down my shirt, tracing my abs. I flex them a little, just so she has more to maneuver around.

“Wedding. Big or small?”

“Small. I don’t want a huge fuss. Just our family and friends.”

I nod. “Agreed. But you better wear white.”

“Seeing as I’m dating you, I’m sure everyone knows I’m not pure,” Tatum says with a smirk.

That fucking smirk. I’d love to kiss it right off her face. Not yet.

“And career? What if one of us makes it big?”

Her lips connect with mine, teasing and tasting, coaxing me to open for her. A change of events, but one I’m willing to comply. Her sweetness runs over my tongue as I take the kiss further, locking her in my arms.

She pulls away, breathless and panting. “I’ll follow you wherever you go.”

“And what if I’m a plumber?” Not likely. Doing anything that doesn’t involve the guitar isn’t an option. I’ll play lowly gigs at the bars my whole life before that’ll happen.

“Then I’ll be the best plumber’s wife out there.”

I slip my hand under her waistband, playing with the top of her panties. “And if you become the world’s greatest guitarist, I’ll gladly be your back-up.”

Finding my way past her barrier, I find the smooth, wet skin I’m looking for. Her eyes light up with excitement as I play with her body.

“Kiss me.” It’s a request she doesn’t have to ask twice for.

Rolling her over, I lose myself into the woman I love, who’s going to give me everything I’ve ever hoped and dreamed for.

The room spins as I sit up in bed, my heart frantically trying to stay in my chest. Looking around, everything’s different. This isn’t my room or my bed. My guitars aren’t in the corner, nor are my music sheets scattered across the desk.

And the woman sleeping next to me is a stranger, another nameless face to occupy my nights.
Why does this dream keep happening? It was the past, long gone and buried. Or so I thought.

Plans change, shit happens. People leave.

Who needs plans? I’m living in the right now, worrying about no one but me.

And that’s how I want it.

About the Author

Jodie Larson lives along the shores of Lake Superior in northern Minnesota with her husband and four beautiful daughters. Writing has always been something she enjoys and uses it as an escape, in addition to getting lost in her numerous books. Her family is highly supportive of both her love for reading and writing. A lover of all things happily ever after, she writes romantic novels because the world could use a little more love.
  

 

 

 

Review – Serenading the Shadows by Jodie Larson

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No one should have their life planned out at the age of three. Yet that’s exactly what happened to Adrienne Carmichael. Paving the way as the “piano prodigy” was all her parents wanted…

Only she didn’t.

All she wished for was to be normal, to be a regular teenager and everything that came with it – including the decisions that would shape her life.

Wish granted.

Ten years later, scarred and broken, she knows that being alone isn’t everything she imagined. The piano is finally everything, except nobody will ever hear her play again. All that changes when a sexy-as-sin rock god blows into her life. Tall and tattooed with jet-black hair and a dangerous bad-boy smile…he’s every girl’s fantasy.

To her, he’s a distraction, yet Kade Evans is everything she shouldn’t want. Instinct tells her to run, but she can’t get him out of her mind.

But maybe, just maybe, he can be the one to pull her from the shadows before the darkness swallows her…for good.

Get Your Copy Today

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BFF K’s Review of Serenading the Shadows

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Adrienne has been living, but not truly alive. Since the tragedy that rocked her world, she’s barely been functioning. All of that changes when her path crosses with Kade Evans, rock god. She is carefully drawn out of the corners she’s been cowering in. And, Kade is….well Kade is one of the best book boyfriends ever: sweet, kind, compassionate, thoughtful, loving, patient, hot as hell! You’ll absolutely fall in love with him right along with Adrienne.

Jodie Larson delivers a series of sweet and touching scenes that will draw you in and invest you in these characters and their stories. There is a terrific cast of supporting characters. Adrienne has a BFF, Quinn, that I absolutely adore! She’s one of those supporting characters that reminds you of all of the best qualities in your own BFF’s. She’s supportive and fun, but delivers the honesty and tough love that only a bestie can!

Kade Evans is a rockstar, it’s how he makes his living, but I really don’t think of this as a rocker romance. Serenading the Shadows is really Adrienne’s story. This is the story of her fight for life and love. And, this is one battle that you definitely don’t want to miss!

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An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

 

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Giveaway

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 About the Author

07

Jodie Larson is a wife and mother to four beautiful girls, making their home in northern Minnesota along the shore of Lake Superior. When she isn’t running around to various activities or working her regular job, you can find her sitting in her favorite spot reading her new favorite book or camped out somewhere quiet trying to write her next manuscript. She’s addicted to reading (just ask her kids or husband) and loves talking books even more so with her friends. She’s also a lover of all things romance and happily ever afters, whether in movies or in books, as shown in her extensive collection of both.

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Other books written by Jodie Larson:

Fated to be Yours

Fated to be Mine

Lessons of the Heart

 

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New Release – Serenading the Shadows by Jodie Larson

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Today the BFF’s are so happy to feature the release day launch for Serenading the Shadows by Jodie Larson! Check it out and grab your copy today!

 

 

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About Serenading the Shadows:

No one should have their life planned out at the age of three. Yet that’s exactly what happened to Adrienne Carmichael. Paving the way as the “piano prodigy” was all her parents wanted…

Only she didn’t.

All she wished for was to be normal, to be a regular teenager and everything that came with it – including the decisions that would shape her life.

Wish granted.

Ten years later, scarred and broken, she knows that being alone isn’t everything she imagined. The piano is finally everything, except nobody will ever hear her play again. All that changes when a sexy-as-sin rock god blows into her life. Tall and tattooed with jet-black hair and a dangerous bad-boy smile…he’s every girl’s fantasy.

To her, he’s a distraction, yet Kade Evans is everything she shouldn’t want. Instinct tells her to run, but she can’t get him out of her mind.

But maybe, just maybe, he can be the one to pull her from the shadows before the darkness swallows her…for good.

Get Your Copy Today

Amazon US     Amazon UK     Amazon CA     Amazon AU

Add on Goodreads

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Giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

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 About the Author

07

Jodie Larson is a wife and mother to four beautiful girls, making their home in northern Minnesota along the shore of Lake Superior. When she isn’t running around to various activities or working her regular job, you can find her sitting in her favorite spot reading her new favorite book or camped out somewhere quiet trying to write her next manuscript. She’s addicted to reading (just ask her kids or husband) and loves talking books even more so with her friends. She’s also a lover of all things romance and happily ever afters, whether in movies or in books, as shown in her extensive collection of both.

 

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Other books written by Jodie Larson:

Fated to be Yours

Fated to be Mine

Lessons of the Heart

 

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Cover Reveal – Serenading the Shadows by Jodie Larson

Today the BFF’s have the cover reveal for Serenading the Shadows by Jodie Larson! We’re so excited for this new release. Check it out and grab your copy Nov 10th!

 

Title: Serenading the Shadows

Author: Jodie Larson

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Release Day: Nov 10th

serenadingtheshadows_amazon_ibooks

 

No one should have their life planned out at the age of three. Yet that’s exactly what happened to Adrienne Carmichael. Paving the way as the “piano prodigy” was all her parents wanted…

Only she didn’t.

All she wished for was to be normal, to be a regular teenager and everything that came with it – including the decisions that would shape her life.

Wish granted.

Ten years later, scarred and broken, she knows that being alone isn’t everything she imagined. The piano is finally everything, except nobody will ever hear her play again. All that changes when a sexy-as-sin rock god blows into her life. Tall and tattooed with jet-black hair and a dangerous bad-boy smile…he’s every girl’s fantasy.

To her, he’s a distraction, yet Kade Evans is everything she shouldn’t want. Instinct tells her to run, but she can’t get him out of her mind.

But maybe, just maybe, he can be the one to pull her from the shadows before the darkness swallows her…for good.

Add on Goodreads

 

serenadingtheshadows_full-1

 

Excerpt for Serenading the Shadows

“Why? I don’t understand what the big deal is. Can’t you just move it so I can go out and live my life?”

Another crack of lightning illuminates the sky. The responding thunder rumbles in the background as the torrent of rain falls upon the ground. The cold, bitter wind howls against the glass as it presses forward, matching the mood inside the car.

“The big deal? Adrienne, you’re sixteen years old. There is no way we’re going to let you go to an overnight concert two hours away with that boy,” Mom says from the front passenger seat.

That boy? Ugh, why does she have to say it like he’s a disease? Just because Brian isn’t from our side of town doesn’t mean he’s not good enough. Sure, he dresses in nothing but baggy jeans and leather jackets, but he listens to me, treats me like a human and not a piano playing robot. In fact, half the time we’re able to sneak away together, the piano never comes into the conversation. I don’t have to pretend to be someone I’m not with him. I can just be me, whoever that is. Most days I’m not even sure anymore.

“You know how important this weekend is to your career. You need to be there,” Dad adds.

I let out a frustrated groan and stomp my foot. “No! I’m sick and tired of playing on your schedule. You’re always trying to run my life. When do I get to have a say in what I do, or where I go, and when I play?” I run a hand through my hair, yanking at the roots. “You know what? Maybe I’ll give up the piano altogether just so I can be a normal teenager for once in my life!”

Playing the piano has been my world since I first crawled onto the bench at the age of three. My fingers hit the keys and played a simple melody: Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star. I had listened and watched my mother play it so many times I knew exactly what to do. That’s when my life, my freedom to choose, ended. Piano lessons, performances, traveling concerts, scholarships to private schools to work on my music, voice lessons, and anything else related to better my ability. Not once have I been able to go out on a Friday with friends. Those nights were dedicated to showing everyone that the local piano prodigy is going to make a name for herself.

“Sweetie, you have the rest of your life to do what you want. What we’re doing now is helping you succeed for the future. You have a gift, and it shouldn’t be wasted,” she says. “Trust me, Adrienne, you’ll thank us later. Besides, it’s only for a few more years.” She turns and pats my leg. “I wouldn’t be surprised if the orchestra asks you to play with them for the new season.”

“Maybe I don’t want to play with the orchestra. Maybe I want to do something for myself.” I can feel the heat crawl up my neck the more this conversation doesn’t go my way. Time for the kill. “You can’t live your life through me. Eventually, you’re going to have to deal with the fact that you’re a washed up nobody who can’t play the piano anymore, Mom.”
A twinge of pain hits me as I watch my mom’s face fall from the sharpness of my words. It’s not like I’m asking for much. One weekend of normalcy is all. That shouldn’t be too much to ask for.

“Adrienne, you’re not going, and that’s final. You will go to this performance, and you will play the piano. And when they offer you the seat with the orchestra, you will accept.” The scowl Dad gives me in the rearview mirror almost makes me shrink back in my seat. “We are done talking about this. It’s what’s best for your future,” he says with the utmost finality in his voice.

I lift my face to the ceiling and let out a frustrated yell. “You don’t understand! I hate you! I hate you both! I’m nearly an adult. I should be making decisions about my life!”

Angry bolts of lightning flash across the sky, creating a distraction from the deafening rain pelting the car. Within seconds, the car shakes and rocks with the roar of thunder and gusts of wind. Darkness surrounds us again as the sky opens up, releasing its fury.

Suddenly, the car jerks and we float across the water on the road. Dad’s knuckles turn white before he corrects us. The wipers can barely keep up, making it nearly impossible to see.

Dad turns his head to say something, only he never has the chance to speak.

Mom clutches his shoulder, pulling at his shirt.

Everything moves in slow motion. Scenes flash before my eyes. Blinding white lights pour in from the oncoming vehicle. Our screams echo in my ears as I brace for impact.

And then there’s nothing.

No sound.

No lights.

Nothing.

I don’t know where I am or how much time has passed. Faint voices sound above me, while machines beep in the background. I can’t move. I can only listen to what the voices are saying.

“We need to get her to an OR, stat,” a man says.

“How’s her pressure?” someone else asks.

“Eighty over forty.” The woman’s voice grows fainter as the darkness threatens to pull me under again.

“Now, people, move it! We’re going to lose her.”

I want to move, but nothing works. I want to cry, to scream, to ask what happened, but I have no voice. Something’s wrong. Why won’t my body respond?

Sounds fade in and out, the voices and machines are a constant now, the only reminders I’m still here.

“She’s stable now,” a familiar masculine voice says. “She’ll need to stay here in ICU for a while, though. How’s her family?”

“Died on impact,” another voice says. “They never had a chance. She was lucky she was in the back seat.”

Darkness.

Quiet.

Alone.

It’s what I wanted.

It’s what I asked for.

I guess what they say is true.

Be careful what you wish for.

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About the Author

 

07

Jodie Larson is a wife and mother to four beautiful girls, making their home in northern Minnesota along the shore of Lake Superior. When she isn’t running around to various activities or working her regular job, you can find her sitting in her favorite spot reading her new favorite book or camped out somewhere quiet trying to write her next manuscript. She’s addicted to reading (just ask her kids or husband) and loves talking books even more so with her friends. She’s also a lover of all things romance and happily ever afters, whether in movies or in books, as shown in her extensive collection of both.

Other books written by Jodie Larson:

Fated to be Yours

Fated to be Mine

Lessons of the Heart

You can find Jodie at:

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