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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.

Unknown Binding

First published July 24, 2018

69 people are currently reading
144 people want to read

About the author

Jodie Larson

18 books303 followers
Reading is a passion of mine. My love for the written word was rekindled a few years ago, and it's been a blessing to discover everything that is out there. I love a good romantic book, one filled with swoon-worthy heroes and the women who drive them crazy. There aren't too many genres I won't read (sorry horror and scary stories, you still give me nightmares). As long as it drags me into the world to live alongside the characters, I want it!

I've been married since December 2000 to my best friend. Yes we were young, yes people thought I was crazy, but when you know, you know. We had one of those insta-love relationships where we fell hard and never looked back. We have 4 beautiful daughters who drive us a little batty but we still love them!

Ever since I was little, I dabbled in writing, starting with Fanfic of Sweet Valley High (Yes, Jessica and Elizabeth needed some new adventures). In Seventh Grade my teacher submitted a poem I wrote to a national contest and was published in an anthology. I was afraid to turn it in because I never thought I had a chance and yet, it was picked. Writing stories had always been an escape of mine, something to lose myself into or rewrite a bad experience I had to give it a better outcome. There's a little bit of me put into my books so I'm always emotionally attached to them.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for Anne OK.
4,110 reviews554 followers
October 8, 2018
Quick, easy rock band-theme with nothing much new added to an oldie but goodie storyline. I liked both main characters and loved the addition of a single mom with five-year old son. My second book in a row with a five-year old son involved and this time around the kid came across much better and acted his age -- no dogs involved this time though.


Well written by a new-to-me author.
Profile Image for Kathryn Andrews.
Author 19 books591 followers
July 25, 2018
Jodie Larson has done it again. I was impatiently waiting for Pax’s book, the final book in the Lightning Strikes series, and she didn’t disappoint. The heart wants what the heart wants, just ask Pax, and my heart loved every bit of falling in love with Pax, Kylie, and their story. 5 Striking Stars for Downbeat. Amazing job.
2,398 reviews59 followers
July 25, 2018
I wasn't sure what to expect from Paxton's story, because I didn't feel like I got to know him at all in the previous books in this series. As Breck's roommate, he came across like kind of a video-game obsessed slacker. So I was pleasantly surprised to get inside of Pax's head in Downbeat. (And as the drummer for Lightening Strikes, this is the perfect title!)

Pax is feeling like the odd man out, having seen the rest of his bandmates pair off and find happiness as part of a couple. He's lonely, and none of his relationships have panned out for whatever reason. Whereas the other guys are all with women who they knew before they found fame, Pax always wonders if the women he meets are just after his celebrity. Until he meets barista Kylie, who has absolutely no clue who he is.

As a single mom, Kylie has plenty of walls up, mostly to protect her young son, and she makes her cute customer work for her attention. Pax sets out to get to know Kylie, but knows that time is against him before she discovers who he really is. And after a perfect first date and first kiss, Kylie finds out from someone else.

Kylie is understandably that Pax lied to her, but she at least realizes that she wasn't forthcoming about the fact that she has a 5 year old, either. They agree to explore what is developing between them, and once Pax meets Jayce, it was all over. Kylie was done for.

I appreciated that there was no major drama between these two. The story is exceptionally sweet, and while Kylie's insecurities over Jayce's father flare up every now and then, Pax really does prove just how much he wants her and her son to be his forever. This couple felt so genuine and their feelings for one another jumped off the page. I adored this book, and am sad to see the Lightening Strikes series come to an end.

I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
Profile Image for Sassy Southern Book Blog.
5,396 reviews274 followers
August 2, 2018
Pax is a regular guy. Give him video games and couch and he's a happy guy. Sure, he's the drummer for Lightning Strikes, a band that's traveled the country and brought the members fame and fortune. Pax loves what he does, and relaxing in between. He's living the perfect life. Isn't he?

Kylie changes everything Pax thought he wanted, but whereas some women would see his job as a bonus, Kylie, a single mom, only sees it as a negative. The spotlight and all that comes with it can be demanding and very unforgiving and Kylie worries how it will impact her and those she loves, especially her child.

Can Pax prove to Kylie he's worth taking a chance on? Will Kylie realize their love is stronger than anything they may encounter because of his fame? How will her child handle Pax's appearance in their lives and his job? Will it be too much for them to accept? Will Pax break down her barriers and win her heart? Is a HEA possible?

One-click now and follow along as two people share an intense chemistry and possible long-lasting connection must decide if their growing love is greater than their fears. I like that Kylie was the hesitant one while Pax was all in. I feel like having him be the one to fight so hard for her, for them, made a difference in the story. Plus, his position as drummer, a job that I'm sure garnered him a lot of female attention actually turned her away. The way this was written showed that they were actually in love. She wanted Pax for him, not his fame, and he loved her enough to be patient and show her they were forever. - By Elizabeth
Profile Image for Britt Chaotic Creatives.
1,414 reviews94 followers
July 25, 2018
Calling all sweet rockstar lovers! Jodie Larson has delivered the holy grail of swoony rockstars right here with Paxton! Hold onto your *ehem* you knows ladies because of you love all things sweet and swoony in a drummer you’re about to fall in love. I certainly did. Having just started the series with this book I can safely say Downbeat flows beautifully as a standalone, but after reading this I want to go back and read previous books just to get some more of the magic this author has in her writing!
In case you missed it above, I love Paxton. Like big love. I was sold when I read drummer, but then you throw in funny, sweet, sexy, great with kids, totally devoted to his woman and I turn in to a great big crazy pile of fangirl. Sweet is the keyword here. I’m talking I actually went “awwww” out loud. More than once. But don’t let that make you think there’s no meat to the story here. Paxton and Kylie may have the sweetest romance ever, but their story was still real and packing some extra feels with it.
Kylie was nearly as lovable as Paxton was. A single mom working her butt off to provide more for her precious little boy, you can’t help but admire her. I loved the slow sweet build these two had making their love all the more real and growing into an adorable family. Between the sweet and sexy romance and flat out cute bond that Paxton had with Kylie’s son Downbeat won my heart with every page!
Profile Image for Kayla Busch.
347 reviews5 followers
July 26, 2018
I love love loved this book!!!! I have been waiting for Paxton's story, he is one of my favourite characters in the series and his story did not disappoint! From the moment Pax met Kylie you could feel the sparks flying and just knew that their story was going to be epic! Sure they both had things they were hiding from one another (both for good reason) but they always got through their struggles! I loved how passionate and romantic Pax was! From the moment he laid eyes on Kylie, he knew that she was someone special that would change his life. Kylie was more guarded because she was not only trying to protect her heart but also protecting her son from getting hurt. Every wall that Kylie had up, Paxton worked to break down! I can't even get over the romance and sweet and tender moments in this book! The way Pax looked at Kylie and the romantic gestures he did for her, make me swoon! The way Pax was with Jayce (Kylie's son) melted my heart! They had a incredibly special bond and he treated Jayce as if he was his son! This book is incredibly well-written! If you love single parent romances, you will want to check out this book!!!
Profile Image for Bookgasms Book Blog.
2,863 reviews1,563 followers
July 26, 2018
Good lord, I love a fantastic rock star book! And that’s just what Downbeat is—fantastic! I’ve watched all the members of Lightning Strikes find and fall in love and I’ve been waiting for Paxton’s turn!

Pax has found himself a little bit lost, a little bit lonely since Kade, Myles and Brecken have met their women and are taking the next steps in their romances. While Pax hasn’t been actively looking for his one he’s not ruled it out completely. Especially once he lays eyes on Kylie.

Kylie’s just trying to make it one day at a time. She’s got so much going on in her life with her family, work and school. She doesn’t have time for love—that’s what she tells herself anyway. Until Paxton.

And wow, does Paxton break down her walls. Good golly. The slow burn with these too is smart, sexy and such fun to watch as their romance develops. I loved how they fell in love and how their relationship was embraced by their families and friends. Loved how Kylie developed a wonderful friendship with Adrienne, Tatum and Lizzie. I just love this whole damn Lightning Strikes series. ~ Missy, 4.5 stars
Profile Image for Samantha.
151 reviews10 followers
July 28, 2018
Downbeat takes this rockstar romance series to the next level. Pax is always in the background as the drummer for Lighting Strikes and he is fine with that. He enjoys living under the radar of the paparazzi. With his hat pulled down low and sunglasses on, he walks around as if he is not a famous rockstar. His world gets turned upside down when he runs into Kylie, or rather, she runs right into him! There hasn't been any girls that he's wanted, until her. Now he will stop at nothing to win her over.

The Lighting Strikes series has been my favorite reads this year. I was very curious about Pax's story and how it will stand out compared to the others. Well let me tell you, it was one of my favorites! Pax is such a genuinely nice guy who loves food trucks (I mean who doesn't?!) and enjoying life. Then one day he meets Kylie and he will stop at nothing to win her over. 

This story will give you all the feels. I just put it down and I already want to read it again! I really recommend you check out this book. Thank you Jodie Larson and GiveMeBooksBlog for sending me this arc to read and honestly review!
Profile Image for Hot KU Romance-Dani.
88 reviews6 followers
July 26, 2018
Rockstar Romance? Heck Yeah! Single Parent? Yes Please! Jodie Larson just delivered a super sweet, feely and swoon worthy story!

The characters are inviting and created with passion. The story line is intriguing, leaving you entertained until the very end.

Paxton had me from hello because well Rockstar drummer, duh! But he’s actually so much more than that. He’s sweet and kind, looking for love and happiness just like all his band mates have already found. When he catches sight of Kylie he’s on a mission to learn more about her and win over her heart.

Kylie is a sweet single mom who’s had her heart broken in the past. She’s very guarded to protect not only herself but her sweet little boy. She’s been through so much and only wants what’s best for her son.

Will these two find common ground for a relationship? Will love win when they live two completely different lives?
Read to find out what happens!! Must Read!!

Congratulations Jodie on this sweet story!!!
Profile Image for Jenifer.
1,081 reviews13 followers
February 26, 2019
And the (down)beat goes on...
Pax and Jayce and Kylie stole my heart!!!
From the previous book in the series I pegged Pax as the slacker video game loner kind of guy. But he was just realizing that he wanted what his bandmates were getting - their lady loves. He was tired of being the 3rd, 5th, or 7th wheel but he also wanted to be certain that he was loved for himself and not the famous rock star. And Kylie, she never thought she would see love again because she told herself that she was going dedicate herself only to her son Jayce.

This book is so sweet and touching. 'Too good to be true' isn't always a bad thing. Pax and Kylie are so perfect for each other and become a beautiful family together.
Profile Image for Two Books in a Shelf.
46 reviews1 follower
July 26, 2018
Preciso começar dizendo que eu amo livro com músicos e Downbeat não decepciona! Um romance lindo, construído com carinho e desenvolvido aos poucos, fazendo você se apaixonar pelos personagens e torcer pelo seu final feliz.
Paxton não é seu roqueiro comum, ele não está interessado numa vida de sexo, drogas e rock’n roll. Ele quer ter o mesmo que seus companheiros de banda, um amor para chamar de seu e uma família. E ele encontra tudo isso em Kylie. Alguém que o entende, ama conversar e tem uma família dedicada. Amei acompanhar essa história se formando e todas as surpresinhas que tivemos pelo caminho!
1,813 reviews11 followers
July 26, 2018
Saved the best for last of the Lightning Strikes hunks! Drummer Paxton is so much more than a typical rocker. He's sweet and caring as well as sexy as heck but he feels a little on the outside with all his band mates finding their loves. That is until he meets beautiful single mom, Kylie. But Pax has to win her over to the rocker lifestyle. She's strong and protective of her baby and she's doesn't want another mistake. But she makes one that Pax's might get be able to get passed. This is a well written, emotional love story with terrific characters in one of my favorite genres. This is a great rocker series that I'm sad is over. One to read. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC.
Profile Image for Rachel Renee.
Author 12 books170 followers
July 21, 2018
I started this book yesterday afternoon and stayed awake last night until I finished...Jodie Larson knows how to pull me in and keep me glued! There is just something about her writing that is so seamless. Loved the story of Pax and Kylie!! Who knew Pax was such a great guy. I'm glad he finally got his happily ever after! I love this series, and the guys of Lightning Strikes and their ladies! I even love Quinn, lol. I am sad to see this series come to an end but have thoroughly enjoyed the ride along the way.
Profile Image for Katie SBR Media- Senior Literary Agent.
335 reviews26 followers
July 25, 2018
I have followed the band since the beginning and I couldn’t wait for Paxton’s story. I always knew he would get his happy ending but I didn’t know how but Jodie made it perfect!

His story is unlike any of the others. He falls in love with a woman from across the restaurant and the rest is history. Kylie was broken from her last relationship but Pax was able to break her out of her shell and show her the way love is supposed to be. It was perfect!

Bravo to Jodie on the completion of the bands books! I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!!
Profile Image for Janine Bürger de Assis.
165 reviews23 followers
July 26, 2018
First of all, I love music stars’ books e Downbeat doesn’t changed it! A beautiful romance, written with care and somewhat of a slow burn. It makes you fall in love with the characters and hope for a happily ever after.
Paxton is not your typical rock star. He doesn’t want to be in the limelight, he wants what his friends have. Love, family and peace. Can he find it in Kylie? Someone to talk, to cherish, that has a family.
I loved reading this stories and that happened in there to surprise us!
Profile Image for Joyce Martinez.
189 reviews
July 31, 2018
Downbeat is such a great story. Pax is watching all his band mates find true love and wondering when it will be his turn. One day he thinks he found that girl in a fish taco restaurantand then in the coffee shop. His pursuit of Kylie is so very endearing and he breaks down her walls. When he finds Kylie is a package deal, her son Jayce, he doesn’t hesitate to include him in his pursuit of her heart. When Kylie finds herself in the same situation as before she finds Pax to be happy and excited for their future. This is one happily ever after book I just loved reading.
Profile Image for Andrea.
Author 29 books659 followers
July 18, 2018
Downbeat is the perfect ending to a great series. Pax and Kylie are a dynamic couple with a perfect blend of friendship and new love. You'll laugh and swoon throughout this amazing story. Downbeat is more than a Rockstar or single mom romance, it's a story of a family who started out small and grew by epic proportions. As a fan of this series, I've loved watching the men of Lightning Strikes mature and fall in love.
Profile Image for Danielle Spellbound Stories.
824 reviews417 followers
July 26, 2018
description

Wow! WOW!! Downbeat was everything the conclusion to your favorite series should be! Jodie Larson does not disappoint. I absolutely love the Lighting Strikes books - as a huge fan of Rockstar Romance, that shouldn’t surprise anyone - especially if you follow my blog. When Jodie Larson released the first book in the series, Serenading the Shadows, I was completely consumed by Adrienne's story and Jodie's storytelling abilities; and my admiration for her has grown with each book I’ve read that she releases. Over the last year and a half, since the release of Notes of the Past when I first discovered Jodie Larson and with each subsequent release in the series, I have found a reason to reread these books. Usually its before I am going to read the next release but its undeniable how much I loved Serenading the Shadows, Notes of the Past, Forbidden Lyrics and now Downbeat. There is just something about these books and the stories that Larson penned that I have found fulfilling. If you’ve read Jodie Larson’s work, I am sure you agree and if you’re new to her work, right now is as good a time as any to join her faithful followers!

description

With the release of Downbeat, the Lightning Strikes series has reached its conclusion and there is a huge part of me that is completely broken up about this. Honestly, I would have loved to see the series never end in the first place, but as they say, all good things must come to an end. That said, Downbeat is the absolute perfect ending to this series. Each book focuses on different members of the band, and they can all be read as complete standalones. Downbeat is Paxton’s story and while I cannot deny my eternal love for Kade, there was something about Pax that drew me in like bees to honey! I think Jodie Larson could make a snake sexy, as she’s exceedingly talented in writing heroes that are that perfect blend of uber-sexy and devoted to the women they are paired with… Oh, and also important to note, Pax is as far from snakelike as you can get! (Spoiler Alert: I hate snakes!!!) He’s the good guy, the one that’s never been one to have long term relationships but isn’t a player like Myles (from NOTP) was either. He’s wholesome if I had to pick a word to describe him. And he sees Kylie and is done for! He immediately puts in the time and effort to show her he’s interested in more than just a one-time fling, he becomes her friend even while he’s falling for her… Tell me that wouldn’t win you over? It’s no wonder Kylie never stood a chance!!! Kylie is a single mother who’s been badly burned and is very hesitant to introduce a new person into her son’s life. As a mother, I really identified with Kylie’s actions and her fears and it made the story more realistic to me.

description

Downbeat has so much more to offer readers though that I haven’t even touched on. Jodie Larson writes a compelling romance that was set to the perfect pace. The story sweet and sexy but it’s also a slow burn romance that will have you on pins and needles. By the time Kylie gets Pax in her bed, you’ll be as hot and bothered as they were! I also loved that this story is told from both characters perspectives - I always feel like this lets us get to know the characters better. If you’ve read the other books in this series, you’ll enjoy catching up with the other members of the band. Oh, and Quinn is still as hysterical as she was in the previous books! So, what are you waiting for?! Get your hands on a copy of Downbeat and get to reading!!!

description
Profile Image for Lauren.
2,588 reviews13 followers
July 25, 2018
Goodness y'all... I was super excited for Paxton's story. I really thought he was he was a loner video gamer but once inside his mind I was really surprised. Kylie was everything I wasnt expecting for Pax but boy did she surprise me but understanding why he didnt tell her who he was. Pax with Jayce was amazing and I think totally swoon worthy. Im so glad that Pax was able to help Kylie het outta her head and forget about the crap Jayce's father did. Another fabulous read.
732 reviews
July 26, 2018
I love this series!

I did not think it was possible to fall anymore in love with this series and the Lightning Strikes boys, but I was wrong. Jodi saved the best for last with this one. Pax is so sweet and selfless, not the typical bad boy drummer you would expect. Kylie has her own set of issues to work through and Pax is just the one to heal her heart! This is a must read! Loved it!
Profile Image for Kristina.
283 reviews2 followers
July 28, 2018
Always an End

I’m so happy I was able to meet the men of Lighting Strikes, just sad it’s over. Pax is a god rockstar who stumbles upon his future. I love Pax and Kayile, plus Jayce. This was a great story to finish the series, definitely bittersweet. Thank you Jodie for keeping the boys going and letting us get to follow their stories.
2,354 reviews14 followers
July 26, 2018
Rcvd an ARC at no cost to author.You will fall in love and root root root for Paxton and Kylie, this was so sweet but it has a story that you could sink your teeth into. Kylie was a great mom working hard to provide what her little boy needed, i respected her for it. Now grab a copy and enjoy!
Profile Image for Debbie.
2,305 reviews58 followers
August 6, 2018
Really loved this series, and this book is no exception. Kylie & Paxton might be my favorite couple of this series. A rockstar and a single mom. Their worlds collide big time and the sparks fly. I loved the way he wooed her throughout the book. And we got to see another side to him!
30 reviews
October 18, 2018
Favorite of Lightening Series

Paxton. Paxton. Paxton. So glad he could have his own story. Paxton and Kylie find each other when they least expect it. Jodie’s story telling is again on target.
Profile Image for Alharaca.
887 reviews11 followers
October 23, 2022
I believe that this one is the sweetest and perfectly written story for them. It surpassed my expectations and I just fell in love from the beginning and lived the story as it was mine. Loved every moment of it and it definitely a must read.
Profile Image for Chantel.
458 reviews
July 27, 2018
This book is amazing. If you love rockstars romance you will definitely love this read. Pax and Kylie’s story was amazingly sweet and loving.
Profile Image for Spunky N Sassy.
5,399 reviews119 followers
July 28, 2018
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 4.0

~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~

I couldn’t get enough of this book. It’s an amazing book and I couldn’t put it down.
Profile Image for Jaime Reynolds.
1,945 reviews23 followers
July 26, 2018
Absolutely fell in love with Pax while reading this story. He is the perfect package. This was a terrific heartwarming and swoon worthy story. The characters had emotion and genuine fears that one can relate to. Jayce certainly kept me entertained and Kylie’s portrayal and character was so realistic that it made me want to know her better. Very enjoyable and I cannot wait to read more by this author. Highly recommend this story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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