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Lightning Strikes #1
Serenading the Shadows
There's nothing, not anymore.
No perfect life.
No clear path.
Just...nothing.
I didn't want the life my parents mapped out for me. Being the piano prodigy was never my goal. It was theirs.
I craved normalcy, a life of my own.
I should have been careful what I wished for because one second, one moment of anger was all it took to rip away everything that mattered.
Now I'm left with nothing but regret.
He thinks he can save me, but the shadows that surround always pull me back, reminding me of what I'd done, of what I'd wanted.
He's a rock god. I'm a nothing.
And I refuse to take him down with me.
No perfect life.
No clear path.
Just...nothing.
I didn't want the life my parents mapped out for me. Being the piano prodigy was never my goal. It was theirs.
I craved normalcy, a life of my own.
I should have been careful what I wished for because one second, one moment of anger was all it took to rip away everything that mattered.
Now I'm left with nothing but regret.
He thinks he can save me, but the shadows that surround always pull me back, reminding me of what I'd done, of what I'd wanted.
He's a rock god. I'm a nothing.
And I refuse to take him down with me.
329 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 10, 2016
151 people are currently reading
374 people want to read
About the author
Jodie Larson
18 books303 followersReading 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.
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 69 reviews
January 6, 2017
4 ★'s
This book starts off with a very traumatic event that causes Adrienne to be in a tailspin for the next ten years. Fortunately for her, her best friend, Quinn, is always there bringing her into the light when she desperately needs it.
And Quinn is also responsible for Adrienne not only meeting Kade but for setting things in motion. Yes, there is insta-lust but Kade's an up and coming rock god so who can blame her.
One of the best things was the way these two "talked" to each other through music. My only complaint is that I wish it was more through playing music to each other instead of playing songs.
Of course, Kade is not only a rock god but a god in the sheets as well. However, Adrienne decides she doesn't really know Kade well enough so they decide to take things slow as friends...with lots of kissing. Luckily, things progress fairly quickly and there's lots of steamy scenes.
Naturally, the two predictable dramas come out...Adrienne dealing with her traumatic past and also dealing with Kade being a rock star. The second one appealed to the angsty side of me...I only wished it was more intense.
The story does wrap up well. I was a little disappointed in that the focus was more on doing things for Kade instead of Adrienne doing it for herself. I was hoping for her to do more with her talent...or at least have more of an explanation that what she ended up doing was worth it.
I would love to read a story about Adrienne's best friend, Quinn. She has a bit of a romance going on herself and it's quite interesting!
This book starts off with a very traumatic event that causes Adrienne to be in a tailspin for the next ten years. Fortunately for her, her best friend, Quinn, is always there bringing her into the light when she desperately needs it.
And Quinn is also responsible for Adrienne not only meeting Kade but for setting things in motion. Yes, there is insta-lust but Kade's an up and coming rock god so who can blame her.
One of the best things was the way these two "talked" to each other through music. My only complaint is that I wish it was more through playing music to each other instead of playing songs.
Of course, Kade is not only a rock god but a god in the sheets as well. However, Adrienne decides she doesn't really know Kade well enough so they decide to take things slow as friends...with lots of kissing. Luckily, things progress fairly quickly and there's lots of steamy scenes.
Naturally, the two predictable dramas come out...Adrienne dealing with her traumatic past and also dealing with Kade being a rock star. The second one appealed to the angsty side of me...I only wished it was more intense.
The story does wrap up well. I was a little disappointed in that the focus was more on doing things for Kade instead of Adrienne doing it for herself. I was hoping for her to do more with her talent...or at least have more of an explanation that what she ended up doing was worth it.
I would love to read a story about Adrienne's best friend, Quinn. She has a bit of a romance going on herself and it's quite interesting!
November 2, 2016
5 incredibly swoon worthy stars!!
“Live for today. Live for tomorrow. Just live.”
“Something changed the moment I saw you, and I knew then that you were special. I want to learn everything about you, but you’ve got to meet me halfway.” “Don’t shut me out before I can even get in.”
“I don’t want to crash and burn, but when I’m around Kade, all I can think about is the fall.”
This is one of those books that will have you kicking yourself, wondering why you haven’t read anything by this author before. Serenading the Shadows is well written and will steal your heart from the very first page. This is one of those books that when you start reading, you just get a feeling, a feeling that you are reading something full of heart and truly special. Serenading the Shadows is such a refreshing read. The characters not only capture your heart, but they become a part of you. They are so easy to connect with that after you spend just a few minutes with them, you will be dying to know more.
Adrienne’s story gripped me from the moment I read the prologue. Her story just broke my heart and had me aching to see how her life turned out. Her past changed her in so many ways and her fears kept her from experiencing all the good that life had to offer. Kade was everything that she never knew she needed. He brought her back to life and made her open her eyes. I loved watching her character grow and change along with the story. Her journey was intense and emotional, but so worth it.
Kade is without a doubt one of my favorite heros. He is a rock star bad boy that checks off all the marks. He is 100% alpha male and possessive over whats his. When he falls in love, he is all in. He is also incredibly patient and understanding and that makes him the perfect book boyfriend. With lines like this: “I want more from you than just your smoking hot body. I want inside that amazing brain of yours, to see what makes you tick and listen to all your secrets and dreams. More importantly, I want to make music with you because that’s who you really are, whether you want it to be true or not.”, it is truly impossible to not swoon over this man. I kid you not, I could spend all day swooning over this character and never tire of it.
Serenading the Shadows is my first book by this author and boy, I am just blown away. This book has it all and is just written with so much love and so much heart. Jodie Larson has done an amazing job balancing out the romance and drama. She has given us a beautiful and swoon worthy love story. Adrienne’s story is not an easy one and I’m not gonna lie, she is going to frustrate you at times, but I promise you her journey is so worth the ride.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
“Live for today. Live for tomorrow. Just live.”
“Something changed the moment I saw you, and I knew then that you were special. I want to learn everything about you, but you’ve got to meet me halfway.” “Don’t shut me out before I can even get in.”
“I don’t want to crash and burn, but when I’m around Kade, all I can think about is the fall.”
This is one of those books that will have you kicking yourself, wondering why you haven’t read anything by this author before. Serenading the Shadows is well written and will steal your heart from the very first page. This is one of those books that when you start reading, you just get a feeling, a feeling that you are reading something full of heart and truly special. Serenading the Shadows is such a refreshing read. The characters not only capture your heart, but they become a part of you. They are so easy to connect with that after you spend just a few minutes with them, you will be dying to know more.
Adrienne’s story gripped me from the moment I read the prologue. Her story just broke my heart and had me aching to see how her life turned out. Her past changed her in so many ways and her fears kept her from experiencing all the good that life had to offer. Kade was everything that she never knew she needed. He brought her back to life and made her open her eyes. I loved watching her character grow and change along with the story. Her journey was intense and emotional, but so worth it.
Kade is without a doubt one of my favorite heros. He is a rock star bad boy that checks off all the marks. He is 100% alpha male and possessive over whats his. When he falls in love, he is all in. He is also incredibly patient and understanding and that makes him the perfect book boyfriend. With lines like this: “I want more from you than just your smoking hot body. I want inside that amazing brain of yours, to see what makes you tick and listen to all your secrets and dreams. More importantly, I want to make music with you because that’s who you really are, whether you want it to be true or not.”, it is truly impossible to not swoon over this man. I kid you not, I could spend all day swooning over this character and never tire of it.
Serenading the Shadows is my first book by this author and boy, I am just blown away. This book has it all and is just written with so much love and so much heart. Jodie Larson has done an amazing job balancing out the romance and drama. She has given us a beautiful and swoon worthy love story. Adrienne’s story is not an easy one and I’m not gonna lie, she is going to frustrate you at times, but I promise you her journey is so worth the ride.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
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Blurb:
There's nothing, not anymore.
No perfect life.
No clear path.
Just...nothing.
I didn't want the life my parents mapped out for me. Being the piano prodigy was never my goal. It was theirs.
I craved normalcy, a life of my own.
I should have been careful what I wished for because one second, one moment of anger was all it took to rip away everything that mattered.
Now I'm left with nothing but regret.
He thinks he can save me, but the shadows that surround always pull me back, reminding me of what I'd done, of what I'd wanted.
He's a rock god. I'm a nothing.
And I refuse to take him down with me.
Blurb:
There's nothing, not anymore.
No perfect life.
No clear path.
Just...nothing.
I didn't want the life my parents mapped out for me. Being the piano prodigy was never my goal. It was theirs.
I craved normalcy, a life of my own.
I should have been careful what I wished for because one second, one moment of anger was all it took to rip away everything that mattered.
Now I'm left with nothing but regret.
He thinks he can save me, but the shadows that surround always pull me back, reminding me of what I'd done, of what I'd wanted.
He's a rock god. I'm a nothing.
And I refuse to take him down with me.
April 27, 2018
Heartbreaker from the word go -- and although I have compassion for Adrienne's tragic past, her drama-rama that she carried on for years was just a tad too much. Enter Kade, the rock star and truly exceptional leading man and my heart was lost to him. A man of much patience and understanding -- this love story took on a beauty of its own. I loved these characters together and the musical inclusion into their relationship was perhaps some of the best yet.
A new-t0-me-author with the beginning of a new series that I'm anxiously looking forward to following.
A new-t0-me-author with the beginning of a new series that I'm anxiously looking forward to following.
July 26, 2018
3.5 Stars.
I’m in a country mood with my reading at the moment so it took a little bit to actually get into this one. Once I did, I enjoyed it.
Kade is all alpha and sexy with his possessiveness but still all sweet and cuddly with Adrienne.
The thing I didn’t like was at times I felt the inner thoughts and dialogue was a little immature. I mean, she’s supposed to be my age so I was kind of comparing her thoughts and speech with mine... which I shouldn’t do because I’m basically an 80 year old grandma in a 26 year old body. 😂
I’ll definitely be coming back to this for a reread when I’m feeling musical and I’m excited to see what comes up with the rest of the group!
I’m in a country mood with my reading at the moment so it took a little bit to actually get into this one. Once I did, I enjoyed it.
Kade is all alpha and sexy with his possessiveness but still all sweet and cuddly with Adrienne.
The thing I didn’t like was at times I felt the inner thoughts and dialogue was a little immature. I mean, she’s supposed to be my age so I was kind of comparing her thoughts and speech with mine... which I shouldn’t do because I’m basically an 80 year old grandma in a 26 year old body. 😂
I’ll definitely be coming back to this for a reread when I’m feeling musical and I’m excited to see what comes up with the rest of the group!
November 30, 2016
A Touching Romance Incorporating Memorable Music
Serenading the Shadows by Jodie Larson is not your typical rock star-themed romance. The author takes this premise and incorporates music to tell the couple's story as the book progresses. I loved that about this story. If you look at the author's playlist for this book, it tells the story of Adrienne and Kade -- the ups, the downs and the transformation of each character as they progress in their relationship.
Adrienne has experienced a tragedy in her life that no young woman should have to go through and she's deeply affected by it, even years later. She goes throughout life not wanting to be close to anyone and as a result, doesn't know how to express her emotions except through music. The author uses all genres of music-- everything from classical to pop ballads -- in this story in such a unique way. I loved it!
Another element I enjoyed in the novel is the relationship between Adrienne and her best friend, Quinn. Ms. Larson showcases such a heartwarming friendship with some of the best banter I've read in a long time. Also, the reader gets many opportunities to experience their friendship which is a lot of fun.
Also, Kade Evans is a pretty swoony hero. He's doesn't mind expressing his feelings and he's passionate, patient and loving. Ms. Larson created a memorable hero with a rough physical exterior with a heart of gold!
Serenading the Shadows is a deeply affecting romance which showcases music throughout the couple's journey in such a unique way. It was fun and witty at times and heartbreaking others. It's just a beautiful and touching story. Also, the cover for the book is just gorgeous and displays the story perfectly! I highly recommend this one if you love music in your books and are looking for an emotional, contemporary romance.
Serenading the Shadows by Jodie Larson is not your typical rock star-themed romance. The author takes this premise and incorporates music to tell the couple's story as the book progresses. I loved that about this story. If you look at the author's playlist for this book, it tells the story of Adrienne and Kade -- the ups, the downs and the transformation of each character as they progress in their relationship.
Adrienne has experienced a tragedy in her life that no young woman should have to go through and she's deeply affected by it, even years later. She goes throughout life not wanting to be close to anyone and as a result, doesn't know how to express her emotions except through music. The author uses all genres of music-- everything from classical to pop ballads -- in this story in such a unique way. I loved it!
Another element I enjoyed in the novel is the relationship between Adrienne and her best friend, Quinn. Ms. Larson showcases such a heartwarming friendship with some of the best banter I've read in a long time. Also, the reader gets many opportunities to experience their friendship which is a lot of fun.
Also, Kade Evans is a pretty swoony hero. He's doesn't mind expressing his feelings and he's passionate, patient and loving. Ms. Larson created a memorable hero with a rough physical exterior with a heart of gold!
Serenading the Shadows is a deeply affecting romance which showcases music throughout the couple's journey in such a unique way. It was fun and witty at times and heartbreaking others. It's just a beautiful and touching story. Also, the cover for the book is just gorgeous and displays the story perfectly! I highly recommend this one if you love music in your books and are looking for an emotional, contemporary romance.
November 2, 2016
4.5 Stars
I’m a huge fan of books that involve music, so when I read the synopsis of Serenading the Shadows I couldn’t wait to read it. Let me tell you, it did not disappointed. This book was filled with so much emotion, tension, a little bit of angst, and a whole lot of steamy moments. Kade and Adrienne’s story was heart wrenchingly beautiful to watch play out. How Adrienne expressed herself to Kade through music, was one of the most beautiful things. You can’t help but to have your heart break for Adrienne with what she has gone through and what she continues to go through due to that tragic event in her life. How dedicated Kade is to Adrienne and helping her come through the shadows that plague her today, was so emotional. Also, can we talk about how sexy Kade is?! He is the perfect sexy rocker with the right blend of sweet and alpha thrown in.
Trust me when I say you won’t want to miss reading this book if you are a fan of sexy rock stars and music.
I’m a huge fan of books that involve music, so when I read the synopsis of Serenading the Shadows I couldn’t wait to read it. Let me tell you, it did not disappointed. This book was filled with so much emotion, tension, a little bit of angst, and a whole lot of steamy moments. Kade and Adrienne’s story was heart wrenchingly beautiful to watch play out. How Adrienne expressed herself to Kade through music, was one of the most beautiful things. You can’t help but to have your heart break for Adrienne with what she has gone through and what she continues to go through due to that tragic event in her life. How dedicated Kade is to Adrienne and helping her come through the shadows that plague her today, was so emotional. Also, can we talk about how sexy Kade is?! He is the perfect sexy rocker with the right blend of sweet and alpha thrown in.
Trust me when I say you won’t want to miss reading this book if you are a fan of sexy rock stars and music.
November 16, 2016
3.5 STARS
Even though the heroine seemed to be more whiny and annoying than hurting and scarred, I couldn't put this down. Know why???? KADE. OMG. That man is just so magnetic and sexy and downright yummy.
Even though the heroine seemed to be more whiny and annoying than hurting and scarred, I couldn't put this down. Know why???? KADE. OMG. That man is just so magnetic and sexy and downright yummy.
February 16, 2024
This was such a good easy read. Do you ever have that feeling of wanting to read a book that just makes your heart thump louder? This is it, the love at first sight and the words spoken were just so lovely to read. I have a better understanding of that full-on love, that is all-encompassing and is wrapped in such thoughtful and caring acts. I fell into this book and enjoyed the music references and backgrounds.
dnf-maybe-later
March 20, 2023DNF at 20 percent. Just not feeling it.
November 13, 2016
Earlier this year I read a book called, Lessons of the Heart by an author I've never heard of before. Afterwards started my love of Jodie Larson.
I normally don't read books about rock stars anymore since Kellan Kyle has pretty much ruined me for all others. But since Serenading Shadows was written by Jodie I HAD to read it.
I thought it was a great book with the right amount of everything. I laughed-out-loud from Quinn and Adrienne's friendship. I had stars in my eyes caused by Kade. And I cried along with the thunderstorms.
Music was such a vital part of the story. I really loved that since music has always been an important part of me. Not only were both of the main characters musicians, but they always used songs to communicate how they felt in that moment. They were all very nice songs too!!
I very much liked all of the characters. Kade was THE PERFECT man I could tell he was fictional. ;) He was so much more than a "Rock God". Quinn has got to be my favorite from the book. I had a perma-smile on my face whenever she was around. She was a ray of sunshine to everybody. I was even as invested with Quinn and her man's relationship as much Kade and Adrienne's.
I'm looking forward to whatever Jodie writes next!!
November 11, 2016
Sometimes you happen upon a book that you know is going to stay with you. This story gripped my heart and didn't let go. Adrienne is such a complicated character but you find yourself wanting to know everything about her. She lives in the past or should I say she is barely living. Her life is riddled with guilt and because of that she truly doesn't allow herself to live at all. If it weren't for her friend Quinn she most likely wouldn't be. I loved Quinn she is the type of friend everyone needs in this life. She fights a battle for her friend that isn't easy and she continues to find ways to bring Adrienne back to the present. When Kade comes along you are so ready for his sexy rock star self. There are times you just want a happily ever after but that wouldn't be very realistic. I loved how the author was able to put you in Adrienne's shows and have you truly feel where she is coming from. This story isn't an easy read it is deep, troubling and also has some hot and steamy moments. I love all the characters in this story and couldn't get enough of them. *Reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood*
October 26, 2016
Oh, sweet Kade! This is one hero you will fall completely in love with! Loved how he was with Adrienne. Such a great heartfelt novel, with some steamy moments. Loved their banter & how music plays such a huge part in the delivery of their story.
February 6, 2017
Pianist prodigy Adrienne Carmichael can't forget the tragic events of 10 years ago that strips her of a future she was supposed to have. Best friend Quinn has been through it all with her and decides to pull Adrienne out of her latest funk and they head out to the Warehouse where Adrienne bartends on her night off
Kade Evans lead singer of the band Lightening Strikes takes one look at Adrienne and it's game over for him
Kade is someone every woman from 18 to 81 would be head over heels for besides being gorgeous he is a rockstar with a heart but Adrienne's past haunts have made her doubt herself so much that she almost loses the best thing that ever happened to her
The good about this book is Kade hands down up there with in the best book boyfriend ever category Next is Adrienne's best friend Quinn she is the comic relief and everyone should have a Quinn in their life.
The not so good for me Adrienne
I get trauma but 10 years is a long time not to have dealt with it, some professional guidance may have helped but not even being mentioned seemed too unrealistic. My next issue the unlimited funds at Kaden's disposal considering what he does for them is never really explained. Overall an enjoyable story and wondering what is next since this is book 1
Kade Evans lead singer of the band Lightening Strikes takes one look at Adrienne and it's game over for him
Kade is someone every woman from 18 to 81 would be head over heels for besides being gorgeous he is a rockstar with a heart but Adrienne's past haunts have made her doubt herself so much that she almost loses the best thing that ever happened to her
The good about this book is Kade hands down up there with in the best book boyfriend ever category Next is Adrienne's best friend Quinn she is the comic relief and everyone should have a Quinn in their life.
The not so good for me Adrienne
I get trauma but 10 years is a long time not to have dealt with it, some professional guidance may have helped but not even being mentioned seemed too unrealistic. My next issue the unlimited funds at Kaden's disposal considering what he does for them is never really explained. Overall an enjoyable story and wondering what is next since this is book 1
June 11, 2019
When tragedy turns into something amazing and inspiring, it is an amazing read. The author takes this awful, heart breaking tragedy and creates a character you can feel her emotions. My heart broke for her on so many occasions when reading this book. She weaves the heartbreak and second chances together to make a masterpiece that will leave you begging for more.
Adrienne is this female character that has been through so much in her life. She is trying to overcome the past, but it consumes her. EKade - holy hotness! His character is this sexy, romantic guy who would do anything. But he can’t fix some things. Adrienne has to learn lessons on her own to help her grow and become the person she is meant to be. I think they are absolutely amazing together. We don’t find out much about Kade except about his parents. I’d love to learn more about his background and how he came to be what he is today - which is this amazing, heartfelt man. Together, they will melt your heart and long for a story like theirs.
I think you should buy this book. It’ll be devoured quickly and you can continue the series!!
Adrienne is this female character that has been through so much in her life. She is trying to overcome the past, but it consumes her. EKade - holy hotness! His character is this sexy, romantic guy who would do anything. But he can’t fix some things. Adrienne has to learn lessons on her own to help her grow and become the person she is meant to be. I think they are absolutely amazing together. We don’t find out much about Kade except about his parents. I’d love to learn more about his background and how he came to be what he is today - which is this amazing, heartfelt man. Together, they will melt your heart and long for a story like theirs.
I think you should buy this book. It’ll be devoured quickly and you can continue the series!!
February 8, 2018
Adrienne has a horrific past, that she blames herself for. She is punishing herself, and can't move forward. It seems that she feels like she doesn't deserve to be happy, that she has to spend her life alone. It makes the tragedy that much worse, because it just won't let her go.
Kade is an up and coming Rocker, who falls for Adrienne as soon as he sets eyes on her. He knows what he wants, and will do whatever it takes to make it happen. He is determined to see where the connection can lead, even when Adrienne fights him every step of the way.
This was a wonderful book, full of emotion. Even though this book is about the lead singer of a Rock band, it focuses more on the lasting effects of Adrienne's tragedy. The interactions between Adrienne and Kade at times had me in tears, and at times had me laughing out loud. This was an amazing start to this series, and I can't wait to see what happens next!
Kade is an up and coming Rocker, who falls for Adrienne as soon as he sets eyes on her. He knows what he wants, and will do whatever it takes to make it happen. He is determined to see where the connection can lead, even when Adrienne fights him every step of the way.
This was a wonderful book, full of emotion. Even though this book is about the lead singer of a Rock band, it focuses more on the lasting effects of Adrienne's tragedy. The interactions between Adrienne and Kade at times had me in tears, and at times had me laughing out loud. This was an amazing start to this series, and I can't wait to see what happens next!
January 9, 2024
Overblown Drama…
I continued to read this book, despite the unnecessary angst and slow-burn to romance, because I really liked the male main character, Kade, and both main characters’ connection with music. However, Adrienne, the female main character, really grated on my nerves. As a retired therapist, I understand trauma, and although I am not discounting that she experienced a real trauma, her trauma was tremendously overblown, and most likely never would have manifest in such a debilitating way. The whole book revolved around her inability to function and cope with life, particularly relationships.
When she literally became catatonic after the couple’s first intimate encounter, I decided not to finish the book. At this point, the book became work, no longer enjoyable..I am not interested in trudging through someone’s neurotic anxiety that is lingering 10 years after a traumatic event. The emotional drama was the focus, and it literally wore me out.
I continued to read this book, despite the unnecessary angst and slow-burn to romance, because I really liked the male main character, Kade, and both main characters’ connection with music. However, Adrienne, the female main character, really grated on my nerves. As a retired therapist, I understand trauma, and although I am not discounting that she experienced a real trauma, her trauma was tremendously overblown, and most likely never would have manifest in such a debilitating way. The whole book revolved around her inability to function and cope with life, particularly relationships.
When she literally became catatonic after the couple’s first intimate encounter, I decided not to finish the book. At this point, the book became work, no longer enjoyable..I am not interested in trudging through someone’s neurotic anxiety that is lingering 10 years after a traumatic event. The emotional drama was the focus, and it literally wore me out.
August 25, 2018
I can definitely see why people love this book, but I'm not one of them. I should have known by the description this book wasn't for me. Yes, the book is written well, but I feel there is a little lack of character development when it comes to Kade. Compared to all we learn about Adrienne, we really learn nothing about Kade. It's insta-love for our male lead and our female lead is so stuck in her head due to past tragedy. It's a bit melodramatic, and Kade's possessive tendencies are borderline scary. I actually had a negative reaction to his behavior, that's never happened before.
If you enjoy books with whiny females characters who spend most of the book acting like "woe is me" near rock bottom who need to pull themselves out of depression and overly possessive males who think they can save the girl, than I can guarantee you will enjoy this book.
If you enjoy books with whiny females characters who spend most of the book acting like "woe is me" near rock bottom who need to pull themselves out of depression and overly possessive males who think they can save the girl, than I can guarantee you will enjoy this book.
May 7, 2018
I loved all of the characters in this book especially Kade. I'm a sucker for a "bad boy rocker", which is how Kade was originally portrayed. I'm so glad that he turned out to be so much more...he was definitely another Kellan Kyle for me. Adrienne was someone that I think I could get along with in real life...I loved how relatable she was even in moments that you really wanted to dislike her. Her story was full of loss, which scared her to allow love in when Kade comes along. I loved watching him break down Adrienne's walls. He was a perfect alpha male with a heart.
This was my first story by Jodie Larson, and I will definitely be reading more...especially of the boys from Lightning Strikes.
This was my first story by Jodie Larson, and I will definitely be reading more...especially of the boys from Lightning Strikes.
August 19, 2022
I read Jodie’s Royal duet and it made me want to read others book by this Author. While the characters in the Royal duet were so vivid they felt like they could be my new best friends the character development for this story was just ok, the pacing left a little to be desired, and honestly the storyline wasn’t as believable as I was hoping for. Our heroine sadly annoyed the shit out of me, and I felt like I was reading about some teenagers instead of grown adults.
While I didn’t love this book, I was glad to see just how far this Author has come in her writing. If her writing has improved this much in such a short amount of time I’m excited to see just how much better she will become in the future, but I think from now on I’ll stick to her newer books.
While I didn’t love this book, I was glad to see just how far this Author has come in her writing. If her writing has improved this much in such a short amount of time I’m excited to see just how much better she will become in the future, but I think from now on I’ll stick to her newer books.
January 10, 2018
As a reader, it is very frustrating when you see so much potential in a story that fails to develop into anything. Adrienne and Kade could have been something great if she had just chosen to deal with her issues and fears instead of ignoring them or hiding behind them. I don't blame Kade for being frustrated. He should have left her long before he did in my opinion. He gave everything to and for her, and she couldn't even bring herself to tell him how she felt about him. Too much unnecessary angst for me.
November 25, 2016
Serenading the Shadows is a insta-love romance. This story had lots of emotion and some steamy scenes. I started this novel and I adored Kade instantly. He was the perfect man and it show with his actions towards Adrianne. However Adrianne took some getting use to as she was a bit annoying at times. I must say though that I loved how she faced up to her issues and dealt with it head on. This was a good read.
November 27, 2016
Favorite of Jodie's So Far!
I fell in love with this book right from the beginning. I love how it was based in Missouri, because I live in Missouri. I loved the songs from the books, many have been my favorites for years. And Kade, wow...Kade. His passion rose from the pages and made me weak in the knees. I'm never very good at getting my thoughts down for reviews...but I loved this book!!
I fell in love with this book right from the beginning. I love how it was based in Missouri, because I live in Missouri. I loved the songs from the books, many have been my favorites for years. And Kade, wow...Kade. His passion rose from the pages and made me weak in the knees. I'm never very good at getting my thoughts down for reviews...but I loved this book!!
February 12, 2018
💕
A heartwarming rock star romance, different than most of this genre and I loved it for that. Adrienne was so broken from the trauma suffered when she was a teenager, Kade was the absolute perfect book boyfriend. How could you not adore him and his love for her, he knew that she loved him and fought hard enough for both when he knew she couldn't. But in the end it took them both fighting for their love and it was amazing to read! Especially seeing the ending.
A heartwarming rock star romance, different than most of this genre and I loved it for that. Adrienne was so broken from the trauma suffered when she was a teenager, Kade was the absolute perfect book boyfriend. How could you not adore him and his love for her, he knew that she loved him and fought hard enough for both when he knew she couldn't. But in the end it took them both fighting for their love and it was amazing to read! Especially seeing the ending.
April 26, 2018
This book is about healing from the past while actually deciding if you want to survive it. Can he help to show her a light to a future or will she just continue to think it is an approaching train? This ok gets super dark at times as the shadows creep in. On stage public actions are not thought out as thoroughly as they should be and it makes you question secrets left hidden. Definitely a good book if you can survive the journey.
July 26, 2018
This is the first book that I have read from this author and it won't be the last. I loved this book it pulls you in makes you feel a part of it. It is full of emotions. Adrienne had a tragedy when she was 15 an d has never gotten over it. She lives inside herself. She meets Kade and wants to come out and live but she is afraid. For Kade she is it he will do anything to get her out of her shell and live life again, to make her his. I recommend this book to all. A must read.
February 11, 2018
Great story!
What a heartbreaking, yet beautiful story. Adrienne's tragic past is hard for her to overcome, but Kade is the swoon worthy alpha who loves her unconditionally. Adrienne was frustratingly stubborn throughout much of the book. Thank goodness for Kane and his unwavering patience. I enjoyed this new to me author. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
What a heartbreaking, yet beautiful story. Adrienne's tragic past is hard for her to overcome, but Kade is the swoon worthy alpha who loves her unconditionally. Adrienne was frustratingly stubborn throughout much of the book. Thank goodness for Kane and his unwavering patience. I enjoyed this new to me author. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
February 26, 2018
Ditto
I really enjoyed this book. Love reading books about groups of people who have each others backs. The best of friends. This was an emotion filled book. Overcoming heartache from a tragic accident was difficult for Adrienne but with Quinn and Kade she made it through it. I also love that it was set in Kansas City MO. I am from KC.
I really enjoyed this book. Love reading books about groups of people who have each others backs. The best of friends. This was an emotion filled book. Overcoming heartache from a tragic accident was difficult for Adrienne but with Quinn and Kade she made it through it. I also love that it was set in Kansas City MO. I am from KC.
May 17, 2018
This is an absolutely spellbinding story by Jodie Larson,
Kade and Adrienne touched a melody to my heart. You instantly fall in Love with Kade he is a Rockstar you will completely swoon over. He is everything you want in a hero.
I really enjoyed and loved this book, emotionally compelling and heart stoppingly beautiful.
This is a must read that I highly recommend.
Kade and Adrienne touched a melody to my heart. You instantly fall in Love with Kade he is a Rockstar you will completely swoon over. He is everything you want in a hero.
I really enjoyed and loved this book, emotionally compelling and heart stoppingly beautiful.
This is a must read that I highly recommend.
May 24, 2018
This book. OMG. It blew me away. I knew when I read the synopsis, I was going to enjoy it but wow this book blew my expectations out of the water! Adrienne is such a strong person even though she can't see it and Kade is amazing when it comes to loving Adrienne and taking care of her. This book is amazing, I highly recommend you read it!
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