**RELEASE BLITZ** Downbeat by Jodie Larson

Title: Downbeat

Series: Lightning Strikes #4
Author: Jodie Larson

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Release Date: July 26, 2018

Blurb

Downbeat |n|: The first beat in a measure, often the strongest. Fame, fortune, traveling to different cities across the country…I’m living the dream. As the drummer for the Lightning Strikes, it’s my job to hook you in and keep you coming back for more. It’s my craft, my calling, what I’m a master at.

Even with all that, I’m still just a normal guy who wants to eat at food trucks and lounge on the couch, playing video games until I can’t see straight. Everything was perfect.

At least I thought it was, until a blonde bombshell walked into my life and made me question everything I thought I knew. I want her. I need her. Only, she’s afraid of the spotlight, afraid of what it’ll do to her and the ones she loves. The wall around her heart is keeping me out, but I know before long I will break down her barriers. She needs to know that there is more to us than what she sees, that this chemistry between us is our downbeat to forever. All the guys in the band have their happily ever after. Maybe it’s time for mine. 

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Excerpt

He slides his hand into mine as we chase after Jayce through the arcade, watching him bounce from game to game. It doesn’t bother him that he doesn’t know how to play or whether he’s heard of it. If it’s available, he wants it.
“Anything you want to do?” Pax looks over, still holding my hand with no intention of letting go. A million little butterflies take off in my stomach. Being with Pax is so natural, it doesn’t even phase me anymore when he does things like this, acting like two people who have known each other for years rather than weeks.

Looking over, I see a race car game that opened up. Way back when, I used to be good at these.

“Race you,” I say, dropping his hand and taking off like I’m one of the kids. Pax laughs behind me, as does Jayce, though neither are moving fast.

“I’ll help you,” Jayce says, acting like my own cheering section.

With Pax in the seat next to me, it’s hard to focus on the screen. I turn the wheel to choose my car, finally selecting one that had a good ratio of speed and acceleration.

“Ready?” the computer voice says. A digital, scantily-clad woman appears on the screen between our two cars with a flag in hand and the beach behind her.

“Go!”

I stomp on the gas pedal and weave around pedestrians and other cars, trying to catch up to Pax who flew off the starting line like a pro. Damn, I may be rusty at this.

Jayce’s directions aren’t helping as I hit the wall for the third time, dropping all the way to last place. Why can’t this be like Mario Cart? I could really use a blue tortoiseshell right about now.

Needless to say, I didn’t win. Pax leans over, cracking his knuckles as he stretches his arms out in front of him. “I thought this was going to be a challenge.”

That’s it. There’s gotta be something I can beat him at.

I look around, desperate to find something that will give me hope.

Nothing. I suck at video games, always have, always will. Instead, I opt for one of the non-video games in the entire place.

“There,” I say, pointing to the basketball hoops.

“Really?” He looks me up and down. “You don’t seem like you have the height.”

I shove at his shoulder. “It’s not like I’m going against Shaq.” He’s a basketball player, right?

Pax laughs and leads the three of us to the hoops.

“Can I try?” Jayce asks.

I hand him one of the balls. “I don’t think you’re tall enough but go ahead and try.”

To my surprise, Pax lifts him off the floor, holding him high enough to take a shot. “Now he is.”

The ball goes in with ease, leaving the two of them whooping and hollering, slapping each other’s hands, finally ending in a fist bump. He’s turning my own son against me.

“Okay, Mama, your turn.”

I dribble the ball against the carpet – which is useless because it doesn’t bounce – and raise my arms to take a shot. The ball flies over the safety net, hits the front of the rim and straight down.

Pax holds up Jayce again, repeating the same motions as before. With each shot, mine fall short while theirs sinks in.

I give up.

When the buzzer sounds, I acknowledge my defeat. “That’s not fair. There’s two of you.”

Jayce hugs my waist. “It’s okay, Mama. We’ll teach you how to play.”

Pax snorts and turns away. I smile down at my son and ruffle his hair.

“Thanks, buddy.” Pulling out my phone, I glance at the time. “It’s getting late and you need to take a bath.”

A collective whine from the two of them brings a smile to my face. “Do we have to?”

I nod. “Yes. Time to go home.”

We walk to my car, letting Jayce crawl in first so I can secure his seat belt. Pax holds out his arm, wrapping it around my waist to stop my progress around the car.

“You know, I’m kinda dirty too. Wanna take a bath with me?”

Everything clenches south of my navel at the thought of being naked with him. I’m not sure if we’re ready to take that leap yet.

“We’ve had enough firsts for today. How about we save that one for later?”

He smiles, the corners of his eyes crinkling in the corners. “Can’t blame a guy for trying.” Leaning down, Pax kisses my lips, softly, tenderly, not taking it further than necessary in public and in case prying little eyes spot us.

“Did you drive to the beach? I suppose you need your bike.”

Pax shakes his head. “Nah, I walked. I can call an Uber.”

“Get in the car,” I say with authority. It’s not often I use my mom-voice, but it’s ridiculous that he even suggested getting a ride from someone else.

Once we’re all situated, I head down the road, following Pax’s directions to his place. Since I was passed out the first time I went there, and then too focused on the man between my legs the second time, I didn’t remember where it was. It doesn’t shock me that he’s down the street from Grounded. No wonder why he’s always there.

Pax opens Jayce’s door and gives him a high five. “See you later, bud.”

“Bye, Pax. Come play with me soon, okay?”

With a final fist bump, he blows it up as they both laugh. “You got it.”

I step out of the car and stand by the door. Pax traps me with his arms, caging me in while leaning into me.

“When can I see you again?”

I chew on my bottom lip. He frees it with his thumb, only to find it trapped again because I can’t stop fidgeting with him this close.

“My next day off is on Saturday. Weekends are better for me.”

He pushes a lock of hair away from my face, running the finger down my cheek until he’s cupping my jaw, tilting my head up to stare directly into his bright, hazel eyes.

“Then weekends it is. I want them all. Yours and Jayce’s. I had a lot of fun today. More fun than I’ve had in a while.” He kisses the tip of my nose. “But don’t think you’re off the hook during the week. I expect excellent customer service when I stop in for my coffee.”

I laugh, clinging to his shirt while resting my forehead against his shoulder. Every muscle in my body relaxes as he holds me in his arms. This feels more natural than anything else I’ve ever experienced. It pains me to walk away and leave him here.

“No fake smiles. Only the real ones for you.”

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Author Bio

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 after’s, whether in movies or in books, as shown in her extensive collection of both. 

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**COVER REVEAL** Downbeat by Jodie Larson

Title: Downbeat

Series: Lightning Strikes #4
Author: Jodie Larson

Genre: Contemporary Romance
 Cover Design: Indie Solutions by Murphy Rae

Release Date: July 26, 2018

Blurb

Downbeat |n|: The first beat in a measure, often the strongest. Fame, fortune, traveling to different cities across the country…I’m living the dream. As the drummer for the Lightning Strikes, it’s my job to hook you in and keep you coming back for more. It’s my craft, my calling, what I’m a master at.

Even with all that, I’m still just a normal guy who wants to eat at food trucks and lounge on the couch, playing video games until I can’t see straight. Everything was perfect.

At least I thought it was, until a blonde bombshell walked into my life and made me question everything I thought I knew. I want her. I need her. Only, she’s afraid of the spotlight, afraid of what it’ll do to her and the ones she loves. The wall around her heart is keeping me out, but I know before long I will break down her barriers. She needs to know that there is more to us than what she sees, that this chemistry between us is our downbeat to forever. All the guys in the band have their happily ever after. Maybe it’s time for mine. 

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Excerpt

“Do you listen to music?” he asks out of the blue.

I blink a few times to process his strange question. “Uh, yeah? Who doesn’t?”

Paxton chuckles. “You’d be surprised. What do you listen to?”

“Country,” I say, without hesitation.

He scrunches his nose up, like he’d smelled something funny. “I said music.”

“That is music.” I laugh. “What do you listen to. Wait, let me guess.” I tap my lips. “Not ska since you’re obviously not a native Californian.”

“The accent give me away?” Again with the head tilt and smirk.

“Pretty much.” I’ll keep the fact that I love it to myself. “You don’t strike me as the rap-type either.”

“Are you trying to analyze me?”

Another wave of heat coats my cheeks. “No, just using deductive reasoning.”

“Uh huh. How about I save you the trouble. I’m a rock guy. Alternative, to be exact. Lots of old school mixed with new.”

I stare at him blankly. “Huh?”

“Alice in Chains?”

Nothing.

“Stone Temple Pilots?”

“The who?”

He rolls his eyes. “You have to know the Cranberries.”

I shrug. “Sounds familiar. I’d have to hear something by them.”

Paxton digs his phone out of his pocket. Tapping a few buttons, he places it on the table between us. Low piano notes fill the space; a sad beat following. Then, a gravely male voice spills out. You can feel the power of the lyrics as he sings with passion and conviction.

“This isn’t the Cranberries. It’s Bad Wolves doing a cover of “Zombie”, one of their songs, but it’s incredible,” he says, tapping the beat onto his thigh. “He had asked for the lead singer to perform on the cover, but she died before that could happen.”

I frown. “That’s so sad.”

He nods. “It is. But I can’t think of a better compliment to give a band than performing one of their songs.”

Make sense. Isn’t the old saying “imitation is the highest form of flattery”? Paxton even sings a few of the words; barely audible but loud enough that I can hear his voice. And man, he can sing.

As the song ends, and the words really sink in, I find myself in new territory. I’ve always enjoyed music, but not like this. Paxton, on the other hand, has a real passion. It’s obvious in his movements, the way he closes his eyes during the powerful parts of the song. I listen to fill the void. He listens to fill his soul.

Before I can dive into anything else, duty calls. The annoying bell chimes, bringing me back to reality.

I stand and flash Paxton a real smile. “Thanks for the talk. It was nice to formally meet you again.”

“Hey,” he says, jumping to his feet. “Any chance you don’t have a rule about going out with customers?”

Chewing on my bottom lip, I debate my answer. Technically, I don’t have any rules about dating except one. I just…don’t.

“Not a good idea,” I say.

As I walk toward the counter, he calls out behind me, “You know I’m persistent, right?”

With a laugh, I ignore him as best I can and help the gentleman at the counter. Dressed in a business suit with perfectly coiffed hair, I’m guessing executive. A far cry from the man still staring at me surreptitiously over his book.

And yet, the suit doesn’t do anything for me. If anything, it reminds me of Craig and his MBA friends. Perfectly polished and needing to impress everyone.

Paxton’s hazel eyes don’t seem like such an issue now. It was stupid to begin with, considering he’s the exact opposite of Craig.

“What? I’m sorry, I didn’t catch that,” I say, trying to focus on what I’m supposed to be doing.

Mr. Suit gives a cocky grin, as if I was already a sure thing.

“Well, I was hoping to get a caramel macchiato, but I guess I could get your number instead.”

Ugh. Creep. “Unfortunately, my number isn’t on the menu, but I can grab the macchiato for you. Small, medium, or large?”

He straightens his tie and runs a hand down it, drawing attention to his well-cut torso. “Are you sure it’s not on the menu?”

“Yep,” I say, letting the irritation come through my voice. “Positive.”

I turn and make his drink without another word. He needs to go. I’m so caught into my head that I don’t notice the turned-up corner of the mat. Time slows almost to a stop as I have an out-of-body experience. The cup tumbles through the air. The light brown liquid streams out as the black lid flies off. Then, in either a case of irony or karma, Mr. Suit gets covered in the sticky sweet liquid.

“Goddamn it!” he yells, frantically swiping his hands against his now soaked jacket. “I have a business meeting in a half hour.”

“I’m so sorry,” I say, desperate to hold back my laugh. I’m not trying to be glib, but I have a horrible habit of laughing in uncomfortable situations. Funerals, when people fall or injure themselves…all of it sends me into a fit of giggles. And I really do feel horrible about ruining this poor man’s suit, but after his actions, I can’t say I’m too sorry about it.

“Just forget it.” He storms toward the door, whipping it open and practically slamming it behind him.

One look from Paxton is all it takes to break the dam to release the giggles.

“Served him right,” he says with a nod.

“Yeah, but I do feel bad about it.”

He shuts his book again. “Don’t. He was a douche canoe and didn’t know how to take no for an answer.”

I quirk a brow. “Like you?”

“I’m different.” Without warning, he stands and closes the distance, leaving only the counter separating us. “You’ll see.”

Paxton gives me a wink and leaves me in a stupor as he heads out the door.

Somehow I get the feeling this won’t be the last time I see him. The thought thrills me more than it should.

Also Available

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Author Bio

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 after’s, whether in movies or in books, as shown in her extensive collection of both. 

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**RELEASE BLITZ** Forbidden Lyrics by Jodie Larson

We are thrilled to be bringing you Jodie Larson's FORBIDDEN LYRICS, the third standalone in her Lightning Strikes rockstar series. Fans of contemporary romance are not going to want to miss this one--be sure to grab your copy today!

 

About FORBIDDEN LYRICS

Falling in love with your best friend's sister is never a good idea. Getting caught kissing her, that's even worse. I watched Lizzie Donovan grow up - from pigtails and scraped knees to pouty lips and lush curves. It wasn't until one night nine years ago in the front seat of her car, with her lips on mine, that I realized what I was feeling was far more than friendship. Of course, I felt her brother's wicked left hook shortly after. One promise was all it took to push her away. Not anymore. This is my chance. I have three months to convince her that she's the song in my heart and we're more than just forbidden lyrics.

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Read an excerpt from FORBIDDEN LYRICS

  The house lights dim, leaving the whole place practically in darkness. A hush falls over the crowd as if the lack of light was in control of their voices. Pretty sure we’re the only table that knows what’s about to happen. The steady beat of a drum, counting out a punishing rhythm break through the silence. A bass guitar joins in, followed closely by two more guitars. It’s a pattern I’ve heard all my life. Each instrument getting its turn to take the spotlight before coming together as a whole. A spotlight cuts through the darkness and every girl in the room loses their mind before rushing the stage. Flashes from cell phones compete against the swirling lights illuminating the dance floor. The four of them stand there, perfectly comfortable in their surroundings, taking command of the area. Kade winds at the girls in front while Myles struts his stuff along the right side of the stage. You can barely see Pax’s head above the drum set, but every once in a while, you sneak a glimpse of his smile. But that’s not what I’m focusing on. No, I’m drawn to the one standing off to the side, keeping a constant rhythm and not drawing as much attention to himself. Damn. If I thought Breck looked good sitting on a bar stool, he looks a million times better with a spotlight shining directly on him.  

 

Don't miss the other LIGHTNING STRIKES books!

 

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

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NOTES OF THE PAST

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?

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About JODIE LARSON

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.

  Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / BookBub / Newsletter

**COVER REVEAL** Forbidden Lyrics by Jodie Larson

 

We are so excited to be sharing the cover for the upcoming FORBIDDEN LYRICS by Jodie Larson. FORBIDDEN LYRICS is the third standalone in the Lightning Strikes series and will be released on February 19, 2018!

 

 

About FORBIDDEN LYRICS

Falling in love with your best friend's sister is never a good idea. Getting caught kissing her, that's even worse. I watched Lizzie Donovan grow up - from pigtails and scraped knees to pouty lips and lush curves. It wasn't until one night nine years ago in the front seat of her car, with her lips on mine, that I realized what I was feeling was far more than friendship. Of course, I felt her brother's wicked left hook shortly after. One promise was all it took to push her away. Not anymore. This is my chance. I have three months to convince her that she's the song in my heart and we're more than just forbidden lyrics.  

Add FORBIDDEN LYRICS to your Goodreads shelf here!

 

 

About JODIE LARSON

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 show in her extensive collection of both.

  Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / BookBub / Newsletter

**RELEASE BLITZ** I Don't Regret You by Jodie Larson

 

Regrets. We all have them. Like the Aqua Net hairstyles back in the 80’s, the 90’s grunge fad, or the person you lost your virginity to as a teen because you were “totally in love”. I have a few of my own. Specifically, marrying my rebound guy but staying married because I was too weak to fight for my own happiness. He took me down and kept me there for far too long. I’m done. Done living with regrets and done not pursuing what makes me happy. Then you came along and showed me that I was worth more than who I had become. You are not my regret.  

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EXCERPT

Before I have the chance to turn, Henry reaches down and places his hands on my shoulders. I don't jump, which surprises me. Maybe the wine loosened me up more than I thought. "You must be in nerd heaven." He trails his fingers across my upper back as he rounds the couch to sit next to me. Without thinking, I lean my head against his shoulder and turn my nose toward his neck. There's that smell I adore; crisp and masculine. Like an autumn breeze. I need to figure out what cologne he uses since I still owe him a Christmas present. Is it too forward to buy a guy cologne if you're not sure what your relationship status is? "I'm having a lot of WTF moments. And somehow, I've forgotten the first few seasons, so I decided to start from the beginning." He sits forward and tilts my head so I can see him better. "When did you eat last?" Good question. “What time is it?" Henry raises a brow. "Um, just after ten." I start to laugh. "About twelve hours ago." Not sure why that's funny. I think the wine is making me loopy. It would explain so much, though. My laughter earns me an eye roll as he picks up a bag I didn't see him set down and disappears into the kitchen. Do I stay in here and watch the slaughter or go into the kitchen and watch the chef work his magic? These are tough choices. I empty the bottle into my glass, which only fills it halfway. Hmm, looks like I was thirstier than I thought. I try standing from the couch, only to fall back again. Well, there's my answer. By the time the mad slaughter is finished, Henry rounds the couch again, holding two plates heaped with the most delicious smelling pasta. "How'd you know?" I eagerly take a plate from him, along with the offered fork, and dive into the cheesy goodness. Creamy yet hearty, especially with the giant chunks of bacon. My stomach grumbles again, this time in appreciation. "Know what? That you wanted pasta?" I nod my head as I slurp a noodle past my lips. "Call it intuition." "Your ESPN is working wonderfully." He laughs and I can feel it all the way through my chest. "Don't you mean ESP?" "Isn't that what I said?" Henry takes his thumb and runs it over my mouth, grabbing a dribble of sauce collected in the corner. All thoughts leave as he drags it over my lips, letting me taste the combined saltiness of the sauce and his skin. It’s hot and feels almost sinful. I let my tongue run along the pad of his thumb before wrapping my lips around it. Henry’s eyes dilate, turning darker, more primal. When he licks his lips, I almost drop my plate to devour him instead. I’m navigating foreign ground. I don’t know if I’ve ever had this sort of a connection with another man before. Henry knows what I want without asking. And he’s such a great listener. He never gives that bored look I seem to find on most guys when I’m telling a story or venting my frustrations. Probably how he knew I wanted pasta tonight. He knew I was stressed and it’s my favorite dish in moments like these. “Thank you for tonight.” I break our spell and focus on my fork as I push the food around. “We haven’t done anything yet.” Yet. I turn to find him smiling at me. “Dinner was the beginning. Tonight is about getting you used to this new normal. Whatever you need, I’m here for you.” He’s not real. No way. Must be a figment of my imagination. “How have you stayed single all this time?” The words slipped out of my mouth before I could stop them. Bless his heart, he doesn’t laugh at my obvious word vomit. Only tucks some hair behind my ear while giving me one of those special smiles. “I was waiting for the right woman to come along.”    

About JODIE LARSON

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 show in her extensive collection of both.

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**COVER REVEAL** I Don't Regret You by Jodie Larson

 

We are very excited to bring you the cover for Jodie Larson's I DON'T REGRET YOU. This new standalone contemporary romance releases August 14, 2017.

   

About the book:

Regrets. We all have them. Like the Aqua Net hairstyles back in the 80’s, the 90’s grunge fad, or the person you lost your virginity to as a teen because you were “totally in love”. I have a few of my own. Specifically marrying my rebound guy but staying married because I was too weak to fight for my own happiness. He took me down and kept me there for far too long. I’m done. Done living with regrets and done not pursuing what makes me happy. Then you came along and showed me that I was worth more than who I had become. You are not my regret.

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Excerpt

  “Nice and warm.” He kisses the spot behind my ear, sending a new shiver to run up my spine. I jab my elbow into his side. “Don’t sneak up on me like that. I thought you were trying to kill me.” He comes around and kisses my nose. “Death by sex?” I roll my eyes. “Fiend.” “You made me this way. I’ve had the taste and I need more.” Pulling on his beanie, I laugh. “You sound like a zombie who needs brains.” “Why must it be brains? I’m thinking a pussy zombie is more appropriate.” My laugh echoes around us. “Oh my God, there are kids present. Keep your voice down.” Henry pulls me flush against his chest, placing his mouth on mine. My cool lips press against his warm ones, melting the icy cold from my bones. Snow starts falling around us, catching in the hair peeking out from under my hat. Henry breaks away, running his fingers through it. “You’re an angel.” I shake my head. “More like the devil.” “Technically, the devil was an angel.” “And look what happened to him.” His breath curls around his face as he gives me a toothy grin. “At least he’s not cold.” I smack his shoulder. “Let’s agree to disagree.” “Fine.” He looks over his shoulder to the kids. “You think they’re ready to go?” “Doubtful. I thought they’d be exhausted by now. No such luck.” “I know how to get them to leave.” With a wink, he walks over to the bottom of the hill, waiting for the kids to slide down. “Hot chocolate,” he yells at the top of his lungs. I’ve never seen them move so fast in the snow. Four sets of voices chant “Me! Me!” as they race back to my car. Henry walks back with a smug grin. “Cheater.” He stops in front of me, pausing, assessing. Then, without warning, he picks me up and tosses me into a nearby snowbank. All four kids start laughing out loud, telling Henry good job. I wipe the snow from my face, trying my best to suppress a grin. “You’re going to pay for that.” Offering his hand, I take it but yank hard enough so he joins me. Peals of laughter can be heard from the kids, along with Henry as he shakes the snow off his hat. “Is that my punishment?” “Oh no. You’re not getting off that easy.” A sly smile creeps onto his lips. “Can I pick when and where?” I jab my mitten into his chest. “No sexual punishment.” “You’re no fun.” His laughter dies down as he seals his lips over mine once more. We don’t go far, knowing we have an audience. Promises were made and if we don’t deliver the goods, there will be hell to pay. “My house or yours?” I bite my lower lip. Tough decision. But I know what I want. “Yours.” “Good answer.” Henry helps me up and brushes the snow off me, spending too much time around my ass and breasts. I bat his hands away with a tsk. We gather up the kids and head out of town to his place. Jacob and Cassie don’t object. They’re just as excited about going there as I am, though for a completely different reason.

 

About Jodie Larson:

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.

**RELEASE DAY BLITZ** 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*  

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.