Contusion

Heartland Metro Hospital #2

by Ofelia Martinez

Facing my own mortality, I take a stranger to bed so I can feel alive. I’m in a foreign country and will never see him again, so what’s the harm?

The only thing worse than cancer at twenty-four is having to keep it a secret.

Worse still is trading knuckle wraps for head scarfs and mouth guards for IV drips.

Like I sought the best coach, my search for the best cancer researchers lands me in Kansas City, far from home and alone.

But when I take the handsome and funny Rory Dennis home, I learn there is more between us than an insatiable physical attraction.

I want to see him again, but can I keep my illness a secret from yet another person?

This steamy, sports romance has a wonderful happily ever after and is perfect for fans of Mariana Zapata, Alexis Daria, and TL Swan.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance

298 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 15, 2021

About the author

English:
Ofelia Martinez writes romance with Latinas on top. Originally from the Texas border, Ofelia now resides in her beloved Kansas City.

She loves good books, tequila, and chocolate. She proudly shares a birthday with Usagi Tsukino. When not writing, you can find Ofelia making visual art.

Visit her online at Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @OMartinezAuthor

Join her reader club for exclusive bonus content, free books, and giveaways. Visit OfeliaMartinez.com to learn more.

Español:
Ofelia Martinez escribe novelas románticas con latinas al mando. Ofelia es originaria de la frontera de Texas y México, y ahora reside en su amado Kansas City.

Ella adora leer, disfrutar de un buen tequila y ricos chocolates. Está orgullosa de compartir su cumpleaños con Usagi Tsukino. Cuando no está escribiendo, uno la puede encontrar creando artes visuales.

Visita OfeliaMartinez.com para aprender más de ella.

Reviews

[Isolette or (ICY) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was honor to receive this arc book. Omg Ofelia Martinez out done herself. I thought I fell in love with Remission Carolina and Hector story. But Contusion Valentina & Rory’s story. I is my favorite one of this series book 2.

The charter were well write and the emotional ride. You won’t put the book done. And grab those tissues and get ready for laughs as well. Well write and specials about cervical cancer what Valentina went thru.

Valentina was from Mexico and went to Kansas. To go thru a treatment for her cervical cancer. On the first day her pop tart gets stuck on the vending machine. Their see meets Rory. After talking with her doctor about he treatment she made friend and took her friend advice to get some action before she starts treatment. So Valentina walk to the bar close to her apartment and the hospital.

Rory saw Valentina at the bar when he came inside with his friends and could t stop and walk up to her. Valentina told Rory straight forward if he leaves with her she always playing to take him to her house. Let just saw is wowow 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥when they get together. After that everything goes wow . I recommend this book I Give a 5 stars and trust me you will not put it down. Ofelia Martinez you really outdone yourself. Thank you it was a honor and being part of your team as well . ☺️

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Contusion is book 2 of Ofelia Martinez’s Heartland Metro Hospital series, and Martinez delivered with this sequel.
From the first night Valentina and Rory met, they had amazing chemistry. Rory is kind, smart, caring, and let’s not forget sexy. Valentina is strong (physically and willed) and a fighter. Together, they compliment one another so well and I was so happy that Rory held out hope, never stopped loving Valentina, and together, they got their HEA. I’m excited to see what else Martinez has up her sleeves in the future!

[Buffyanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

“If we go out tonight, I hope you understand I intend to take you to bed before the date is over. Don’t leave with me if you are not interested in that.”

Valentina Almonte has put her promising MMA career on hold to pursue aggressive experimental cancer therapy in the United States. While staying in Kansas City, the Mexico City native falls in love with a handsome young doctor (who is not from her treatment team).

What I really like about the book blurb for Contusion is that it tells you enough, and yet nothing at all! I love how Ofelia Martinez takes the wealthy man trope and turns it upside down. Valentina is the one with money to burn (although she truthfully clarifies that it’s her family’s, not hers). Valentina is the one her can knock anyone in the bar onto their bottom. And, Valentina is the one who gets to say the line the above! Fire alarm! Fire alarm! This 🎶 Girl Is On Fi-re! 🔥 🎶

Sadly, Valentina isn’t doing so hot once her cancer therapy gets going. We see both the dark side of her self doubts and the bright side of Dr. Rory Dennis’ sweet and tender devotion. Valentina’s battles with her disease, with her family and with her own insecurities are so empathetically described that I felt like I was in her corner the whole time.

I felt immersed in the sights, sounds, and family quirkiness that Martinez skillfully weaves into Valentina’s story, simultaneously showing us the impersonal reality of Val’s upper crust roots and the comforting inclusiveness of her new Mexican-American friends. I loved the writing and the integration.

I only wish that there was a little more of Rory’s point of view. There were times when he seemed missing from Valentina’s journey and I wondered what he was thinking and how he was doing. Valentina and Rory are so perfect for each other!

(This is a sincere and voluntary review of a complementary ARC.)

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

So i received a complementary copy of these book from the author Ofelia. OMG i loved the story of Rory and Valentina. The way that his love never dies for her and only grows stronger with everything they go through. Oh my and how he shows up in a whole different country just for her to show his love and prove to her that she is the only one for him. This is a must read love story like no other i have ever read

[Jennie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ofelia Martinez has become a new favorite author to read. Her stories are so beautifully written with wonderful characters and full of slow burn angst. Contusion is the second book in the Heartland Metro series which features Valentina, a MMA rising star fighter and Dr. Ramírez’s favorite cancer patient from Remission.

I loved this book from beginning to end and I could not put it down. The chemistry between Valentina and Rory was captivating. They both were fans of dark humor and the witty, sexy banter was magnetic. Valentina was just so fierce and vulnerable at the same time. She was also stubborn and certainly made Rory work for it. But he never gave up and loved fiercely and relentlessly. Their relationship was so sweet, passionate and steamy. Rory was the ultimate book boyfriend. He was sexy, patient, understanding and loving. It was instant chemistry when they met and the attraction was undeniable. He teaches her that asking for help is not a weakness. He shows her a life full of love, something she thinks might be unattainable due to her current circumstances. I also love the relationships Valentina develops with Mandy and the cousins. It was just so beautiful to see how she slowly opened herself up to new changes in her life.

This story was not only about Rory and Valentina’s love, but also, about Valentina’s journey fighting cervical cancer, finding herself, and about fighting for what you want even though it might seem impossible. This heartfelt, sweet, funny, slow burn, steamy romance will melt your heart, make you cry and make you swoon on every page. Rory and Valentina were a beautiful couple and I loved every minute.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Amy Reyes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book I have read from Ofelia and I’ve loved them book so far! This isn’t dark like most of the other books I read but it is a steamy one. Story is about Valentina and how she moves from Mexico to get cancer treatment and how she meets Rory. We get to see all the difficulties she goes thru with treatment and how her relationship evolves with him. I love Rory he is such a sweetheart. if you are a fan of romance with a some steam I definitely recommend it.

[RomanceReader1 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such an amazing emotional reading!

We see Valentina and Dr. Dennis first in Remision.
All those glances and little moments we got of them in Remision are so much better explain in this story. And let me just say that after you read Contusion, YOU WILL BE WANTING A RORY IN YOUR LIFE!!! 😍

I’m still trying to like Valentina’s Dad, her mom…. she can be thrown under the bus and I won’t loose any sleep! #sorrynotsorry 🤷🏻‍♀️

And please tell me Pili gets a REAL chance at her own HEA? Although with the ending all I can think is ‘Please don’t let it be Felipe!’



I received an ARC copy of this story and this is my voluntary review.

[Viviana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a quick read for me but it doesnt disappoint. Dr. Rory Dennis is new standards for bookboyfriend cinnamon rolls. His love doesnt fade even with time apart. I love that Valentina finds friend in her new city that care for her and that she has help even if she thinks she can do it alone. I enjoy following Valentina and Rory journey and can wait to see what ofelia martinez has instore for use next

[Genoveva · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was blessed with an ARC of this book and I truly feel blessed. The story was beautiful I laughed and teared up reading Vale and Rory’s story. I want more books with the supporting characters!!!

[Ayushi (bookwormbullet) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.25 stars rounded up

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, this is a love story about a woman that happens to have cancer. It is not a story about having cancer that just happens to include a love story. Second, this book has some painful family dynamics. Again, cancer is not the center point of those issues it's just a part of it. This book has a lot of layers but the love story is the central point.

Valentina is an up-and-coming MMA fighter when she discovers that she has cervical cancer. She leaves everything and everyone behind in Mexico to become part of a clinical trial in hopes of surviving cancer. She decides to have one last one-night stand before starting treatment. That's when she meets Rory. He's perfect and Valentina believes they can only have one night. She pushes him away but he keeps coming back. It takes Valentina a lot of time to understand that sometimes you have to let perfect just happen and stop fighting it.

I like Valentina because she is a fighter, I don't mean a UFC fighter. She understands her disease and she finds an aggressive treatment to try to beat it. When she feels at her wits end with cancer, she fights Rory about their relationship. When her family decides to inject themselves into her life, she doesn't shy away from confronting them about family issues. Rory is so strong, well-balanced, and funny. His unwavering support of Valentina and his belief in their relationship was great. The supporting cast of characters is really strong in the story. Each one brought something unique and necessary to the story.

Valentina blamed her family for a lot of her issues but I felt like she needed to look in the mirror just a bit. Well, that is until the end. By the end, I felt very differently about all of that. Rory isn't as well-rounded a character as Valentina. I kept thinking that I wanted to know more about him because he's so likable.

This book is contemporary and takes place in Kansas City and Mexico. The story includes friends, doctors, treatment talk, misunderstandings, and laughter. I recommend this book if you are looking for an emotional story with heart.

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book two in The Heartland Metro Hospital Series and it is Valentina and Rory's story and omg it is a must read. Valentina is a martial arts fighter but when she gets the medical diagnosis of cervical cancer she decides to not tell anyone and is now going to do a medical trial where they treat her aggressively so she can hopefully beat it and get back to her training with her coach and long time friend Chema but when one of her new friends suggest that she has a one night stand before her treatment starts she decided to do just that and that is how she met Rory the man she decided to spend the night with and never see him again but things don't always go as planned. Rory is a doctor at The Heartland Metro Hospital and while at the pub he sees a beautiful women and he really wants to get to know her but after they spend the night together she keeps trying to avoid him but while working he is shocked to see Valentina in a hospital bed and he is determined to be there for her as he has developed strong feelings for her. The chemistry between them is so strong and not and you can feel it sizzling of the pages and this book was so emotional and I was in tears but I still couldn't put it down and I loved how Rory just wanted to be there for her and I found myself hoping that everything would be okay as they were so perfect together. This book was a real page turner that you had to keep reading to see what would happen next and kept your attention right from the first page and on the edge of your seat until the last one. This is the first book that I have read by Ofelia Martinez but definitely not the last and I can't wait to read more of her books and I definitely recommend you read this book and you will not be disappointed.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[PennyWise 24 · Rating 5 out of 5]

“You never asked me what kind of athlete I am,” I say. His head snaps up, and he is looking into my eyes again, a question in his.

“Ask me what I do.”

“Um, okay . . . what do you do, Valentina?”

“I’m a mixed martial arts fighter.”

“Oh.” He looks confused, and I know he doesn’t understand where I’m going with this.

“Fighters tend to find scars sexy as fuck,” I explain, and I know he can see the hunger in my gaze.

This was such a cute, emotional, heart breaking, fiery and romantic read that I actually read it a couple of times (and put it in my “To-be-read-again” pile.). And this passage says a lot of the connection these two feel.

It is a love story, tried and true, that is ignited by the need to hold onto each other from the very beginning of a difficult journey through dealing with some physical and emotional scars (new and old). The story is about a hard working, hard fighting up and coming MMA star that is diagnosed with cancer from out of nowhere in the prime of her life.

Now let me be clear - This story isn’t about cancer - but a love story between Valentina and Rory who are embarking on this journey of fighting Valentina’s cancer together. It’s sweet and passionate and right in all the right ways. She builds this family to help her through these tough times when - the reader finds out - she doesn’t have the support of her own.

And A++++ for the eye candy on the cover.

**I was given this Advanced Reader Copy for free in exchange for my honest review**

[Bekah Rod · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy from the author, this was my first time reading something by Ofelia Martinez...and boy was I hooked! Rory and Valentina's story pulled me in, crushed my soul, and warmed my heart all at the same time. It was super well written and attention grabbing. I don't know a ton about cancer treatments, survivors, or cervical cancer but I thought that element of the story was very compelling and easy to understand/follow. I wasn't getting lost in the medical-ness of the story.

That said this book is about Valentina, an up and coming MMA fighter who is in the US for cancer treatments. She meets a guy at the hospital Rory who saves her from a vending machine! Come to find out, he actually works at the hospital. Valentina is a strong character, I love her grit and strength. I wanted to be her friend so bad! Rory is just a sweetheart, and his parents...SO CUTE! Even the side characters grabbed my attention, I definitely want to read all about their stories!!! The blurb for the next book was so good too - I CANNOT WAIT!

I read this book so fast, it was that good. I didn't want to put it down, I just wanted to keep reading to see what would happen next. Thank you Ms. Martinez for writing this one, you hit it out of the park. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Ally Doby (Schleicher) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first time reading a book by this author and I am hooked! I am going back to read the first book in this series as well as the novella I got by signing up for her newsletter!

Valentina is a rising UFC fighter hoping to make it to the pros. That is until her world comes crashing down around her, instead of fighting other humans she is fighting for her life. She never expected to find the love of her life on her sickbed. Can she fight her feelings for him to save him from a longer heartache or will she tap out and admit her feelings for him?

Rory is a resident doctor and never thought that the girl he bought a pop tart for could be his one true love. When their paths align again, he was only meant for a one night stand, but he had other ideas. Can he prove to Valentina that he is worth more then a one night stand? You will have to read for yourself to find out!

This book held my attention from page one. It was filled with all sorts of emotions. I wanted to tell, scream, cry, laugh and throat punch a few characters. I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future. I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next! I am voluntarily leaving this review after receiving a free copy.

[Gypsy Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given and ARC for my honest opinion.

Okay, this is my first hospital based romance series and let me you, I am here for it! I have also read the other 2 books in the series and I can honestly say Rory and Vale are most definitely my favorite couple so far in the series.

Oh my heart goes out to both Vale and Rory, both story's are heartbreaking in their own way, but I am so glad that they ended up finding each other for the tome they have. Even if things don't always go as planned.

Vale is such a strong character that is absolutely astounding to me that she was able to go through so much without a support system for so long. But she definitely builds her tribe in Kansas City and they're some of the best people.

Rory is such a kind and giving heart that you can't help but love him from the first night at the bar. I love how he always pushes, even if sometimes it is not what the main character wants at the time.


Also, let's talk about the epilogue! It is set 13 years into the future!!! Omg! One of my absolute favorite things an author can do at the end of a book is give a decent amount of time to catch back up with the characters and see where they are at!

[Bookdeemon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Contusion

By Ofelia Martinez 

Book two in the heartland metro series.


⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️


Sum up of the book:


Valentina traveled to Kansas City to be a part of a trial for her cervical cancer.

She decides to keep her cancer a secret from her family and go through treatment by herself. With her family all the way in Mexico, Little does she know she will meet some very supportive people.



Review:

    This book was so good! I adored the first book and to get to 

ARC read the second was so awesome .Valentina was such a strong character but to get to see her vulnerable side when she was at her lowest made her even stronger in my eyes❤️.  Rory Dennis was a good book boyfriend. He was caring and understanding but didn’t treat Valentina like a patient. They had such a Steamy romance 🔥.  This book had me smiling and getting teary eyed …such a emotional rollercoaster. The ending wrapped up beautifully. This book can  be read as a standalone but the first one was good so you should definitely check out that one too. 

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recived this book as an arc. This is a great story and definitely deserves a read. I flew through this book in on sitting I couldnt get enough. I loved this story. It was sweet yet steamy in places. I loved the relationship between valentina and Rory. They're meet cute was perfect.

The only things that would have made it better was if we had Rory's point of view on things. I felt myself wondering what he thought about things and wanting to know the reason behind some of the things Rory did.
I also found myself wanting more. I felt like the story flew by so fast. I would have liked to have read more about val and rorys relationship during her treatment.
Still with these few things i would 100% recommend

[Brandy Goodman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Contusion was an amazing addition to this series. Make sure you have the tissues ready. Your heartstrings will be messed with in such a good feel way. This story follows Valentina who has cervical cancer, she fights because that's what she knows, she has to fight in a different way during her cancer treatment, one she was not fully prepared for. Meeting Rory more than once was by accident but what a great accident is was. Love the connection between Valentina and Rory and the continuation of the world created in book 1. The family dynamics between the two is very different and seeing them grow with each other was amazing. Accecption plays a huge role in Valentina's life, from her family and friends and dealing with the cancer.

[Colleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Contusion is the second novel in the ‘Heartland Metro Hospital’ series and tells the story of Valentina, a MMA fighter who is diagnosed with a rare form of cervical cancer, and Rory, a doctor at Heartland Hospital where she is being treated. WOW! this story is soooo well written, the plot is an emotional rollercoaster, heartwarming, sweet, amusing and pretty steamy, the chemistry between them just sizzles! These wonderful characters are beautifully created insomuch as you find yourself really rooting for their HEA.

Once again, Ms Martinez has excelled herself with her story writing skills. Another absolutely marvellous book that I couldn’t put down. A highly recommended five star read!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[C.B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good story about meeting challenges with your head high, ready to fight and win! Vale is strong, determined, ambitious and dedicated. She is a rising MMA star and determined to excel. Then she is tricken by cancer. She has a new fight, this time for her life. She is battling on all fronts as her expected support system, her family is not informed. She finds a found family that is there for her. She meets Rory, who surprises her in his sense of fun, compassion and connection. Does she tell Rory about her cancer? Does he tell her about his health issues? Does she ever tell her family? Does she go into remission or recover? Good story. Good flow. Excellent exploration of Vale's path with Rory. I enjoyed Mandy's family. Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michelle Duncan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Contusion was a very sincere and emotional read.

I love that the plot point of Valentina having cancer didn't overtake the entire story. Ofelia included the perfect amounts of that plot point into the story to make the journey to her HEA that much more meaningful.

Rory and Valentina are supposed to be a one night stand but it turns into so much more for both. Booth fave struggles that neither understands but that bring out the most in the story. I

The part that I enjoy most about this story is that the HEA doesn't happen right away. It builds and takes time and makes it super believable and relatable. Job well done.

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved getting Rory and Valentina’s story because when she’s mentioned in book 1 of this series and the little secret looks between her and Rory I was intrigued. I enjoyed the story overall and it was a quick read. The steamy scenes are pretty good but they left me wanting more. To be honest the whole book did. I felt that this was more about Valentina’s journey than her relationship with Rory. I felt that the romance of it all was rushed and I couldn’t fully grasp the love between our two MC’s.

CW: cancer, post op recovery, strained family relationships, adoption

[Cindy Kukas · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Contusion we follow a young woman’s battle with cervical cancer. But that’s not the main focus. We watch her learn how to ask for and accept help, find friends as well as love.
This is a heart warming story of growth as well as forgiveness.
This is a 18+ story because of the spice.
I found this book really enjoyable and give it four stars.

I volunteered to review a complimentary copy of this books

[_booknerd.4ever_ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a first time author for me. I wasn’t disappointed at all. It’s full of heart wrenching emotions dealing with real life issues such as cancer and whether kids should get the HPV vaccination. I loved the plot. It was well written and flowed smoothly throughout. I loved Valentina and Rory together. Their chemistry was steamy. Overall great read. I can’t wait to read more from this series.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book.

[Carla Cullen · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who has spent years watching Grey's Anatomy, I love a romance with a medical/hospital setting. This book did not disappoint, and I was immediately drawn into the story. There was so much passion and heartbreak that I'll I cried twice while reading it! In particular, I loved Rory, the swoon-worthy cinnamon roll doctor who set a high bar for what heroes should be like. Definitely recommended, but make sure to have some tissues handy.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

SO good.
Loved the main character and that she is an athlete!!
Love how the couple meet one another and how their relationship develops.

While I normally don’t gravitate towards books with this kind of cover (I mean I love a good set of abs but…) this story is so good and is deeper than I think the cover may indicate.


READ IT!! It’s a well developed romance without cringey, childish, or over the top trope-y moments.

[Hilda Recinos · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this is my favorite book from this series although I think there will be more! I could not stop reading it. Valentina and Rory were 🔥. Loved their characters and story. I think this book had a little more spicy scenes than the rest of the series and I was here for it. Everyone needs to read this totally recommend.

[morebooks_toread · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a complementary copy and truly enjoyed it. I did read the first book in the series and really like it. So I knew the second one was going to be good. I really enjoyed learning more about Valentina and Rory because of the little we learned in the first book.

[Hayley Knox · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading this book. I really enjoyed the storyline. I love the way you can relate to the characters in the book, I felt like they where part of my own friends group