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Industrial November on Tour #2
Running from the Blaze
Lola
I clean mansions for a living. The notorious heavy metal guitarist isn’t supposed to be home when I show up. But he is, and everything goes wrong.
After a near-miss dog-attack incident involving peanut butter, I’m convinced Karl Sommer is going to fire me.
Instead, he asks for a favor.
Karl
She’s temptation personified. Forbidden. The lead singer’s sister-in-law. The worst thing I could do is go there.
Which only makes me want her more.
But I’m new to Industrial November, and my spot in the band is far from guaranteed. I need to find a way to convince the label my reckless party days are over. A fake relationship might be the answer—until Lola turns my proposal into something much more indecent. Now, I have no idea how I’m supposed to keep my hands to myself.
I clean mansions for a living. The notorious heavy metal guitarist isn’t supposed to be home when I show up. But he is, and everything goes wrong.
After a near-miss dog-attack incident involving peanut butter, I’m convinced Karl Sommer is going to fire me.
Instead, he asks for a favor.
Karl
She’s temptation personified. Forbidden. The lead singer’s sister-in-law. The worst thing I could do is go there.
Which only makes me want her more.
But I’m new to Industrial November, and my spot in the band is far from guaranteed. I need to find a way to convince the label my reckless party days are over. A fake relationship might be the answer—until Lola turns my proposal into something much more indecent. Now, I have no idea how I’m supposed to keep my hands to myself.
347 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 11, 2022
10 people are currently reading
260 people want to read
About the author
Ofelia Martinez
18 books146 followersEnglish:
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.
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.
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Currently reading
December 1, 2021“Before you head out, can I ask you something?” Karl asks.
“Sure.”
“Will you reconsider my offer from last week?”
I set my coffee mug down. “What? You mean, about pretending to be your girlfriend?”
Karl nods, his face stern. “You no longer have a boyfriend, so . . .”
“I can’t, Karl. I’m moving in less than two weeks.”
“Push your trip. It’s not urgent, right? Come on, Lola. Where else are you going to make twenty grand in just a couple of months?”
I smirk. “You said one month. Now it’s a couple?”
“I’ll take whatever you’re willing to give.” His statement is full of meaning, and my breath catches in the back of my throat.
I shake my head. “I don’t need your money, Karl. And more importantly, I don’t want it.”
“Why not?”
“I have everything I need. I’m set for my fresh start. I’m ready to move on and start somewhere else. With new people—”
“I’m new people,” he says.
I laugh. “Yeah. You are. But like I said, there are a million girls who’d jump at the opportunity—”
“I don’t want a million girls. I want you.”
My heart somersaults at those words from his lips, but I have to be practical. “I’m sorry. There’s absolutely nothing you have that I would want.”
“Everyone wants something, Lola. Even you. Come on. What is it?”
An idea pops into my head, but I’d never voice it out loud.
Would I?
Karl leans over, propping his elbows on the table. His hand rubs his chin. “What about guitar lessons with the best guitarist in the world?”
My jaw slackens for a moment before I recover, then I decide to tease him a little to lighten the mood. “You can get me guitar lessons with Slash?”
His mouth gapes with fake shock, and he nudges my knee with his under the table. “Hilarious.”
We both laugh.
“But how about it?” he continues. “Two months. Twenty thousand dollars and two months’ worth of guitar lessons while you’re here.”
“My plane ticket is non-refundable,” I say before realizing how stupid that sounds. It wouldn’t matter with twenty thousand extra dollars in my pocket.
Karl rolls his eyes. “Fine. Guitar lessons, twenty thousand dollars, and one plane ticket. Or you can take the private jet. Fritz is always going off to Mexico. I’m sure he’d love an excuse to go, and he can take you when the two months are up.”
“You have a private jet?” I ask.
“Not me personally, but the label does, yeah. But, Lola, focus. What do you say?”
I twist the hem of my shirt between my fingers. He’s tempting me. And as tempting as his offer is, there’s something I want more than his money. But I’m too ashamed to ask for it.
“You’re thinking about it,” he says approvingly.
I chew the inside of my lip. “Is the offer open to negotiations?” I ask in one breath, but I can’t meet his eyes.
When I look up again at him again, he’s smiling, and amusement flickers in his eyes. “I knew there had to be something you want.”
“There is.” My face feels a million degrees as I break out into a sweat.
“Lola, you’re flushed,” he says, amused. “What is it?”
“I, um—” I clear my throat. God. How do I say this?
“Spit it out, Lola. It can’t be that bad.”
“I don’t want the money.”
“Okay, what do you want?”
“The guitar lessons, for one. . .”
“And?”
“And.” Oh god, I’m going to pass out from embarrassment.
“And what, Lola? What else do you want?” Karl takes my hand in his and squeezes it reassuringly, urging me to go on. I stare down while he rubs the back of my hand with one calloused finger.
I smile down at our linked hands, and without looking up, I close my eyes and blurt it out in one breath before I chicken out. “Guitar lessons, and . . .
[you can read Lola's indecent proposal in Running from the Blaze, releasing January 11, 2022]
“Sure.”
“Will you reconsider my offer from last week?”
I set my coffee mug down. “What? You mean, about pretending to be your girlfriend?”
Karl nods, his face stern. “You no longer have a boyfriend, so . . .”
“I can’t, Karl. I’m moving in less than two weeks.”
“Push your trip. It’s not urgent, right? Come on, Lola. Where else are you going to make twenty grand in just a couple of months?”
I smirk. “You said one month. Now it’s a couple?”
“I’ll take whatever you’re willing to give.” His statement is full of meaning, and my breath catches in the back of my throat.
I shake my head. “I don’t need your money, Karl. And more importantly, I don’t want it.”
“Why not?”
“I have everything I need. I’m set for my fresh start. I’m ready to move on and start somewhere else. With new people—”
“I’m new people,” he says.
I laugh. “Yeah. You are. But like I said, there are a million girls who’d jump at the opportunity—”
“I don’t want a million girls. I want you.”
My heart somersaults at those words from his lips, but I have to be practical. “I’m sorry. There’s absolutely nothing you have that I would want.”
“Everyone wants something, Lola. Even you. Come on. What is it?”
An idea pops into my head, but I’d never voice it out loud.
Would I?
Karl leans over, propping his elbows on the table. His hand rubs his chin. “What about guitar lessons with the best guitarist in the world?”
My jaw slackens for a moment before I recover, then I decide to tease him a little to lighten the mood. “You can get me guitar lessons with Slash?”
His mouth gapes with fake shock, and he nudges my knee with his under the table. “Hilarious.”
We both laugh.
“But how about it?” he continues. “Two months. Twenty thousand dollars and two months’ worth of guitar lessons while you’re here.”
“My plane ticket is non-refundable,” I say before realizing how stupid that sounds. It wouldn’t matter with twenty thousand extra dollars in my pocket.
Karl rolls his eyes. “Fine. Guitar lessons, twenty thousand dollars, and one plane ticket. Or you can take the private jet. Fritz is always going off to Mexico. I’m sure he’d love an excuse to go, and he can take you when the two months are up.”
“You have a private jet?” I ask.
“Not me personally, but the label does, yeah. But, Lola, focus. What do you say?”
I twist the hem of my shirt between my fingers. He’s tempting me. And as tempting as his offer is, there’s something I want more than his money. But I’m too ashamed to ask for it.
“You’re thinking about it,” he says approvingly.
I chew the inside of my lip. “Is the offer open to negotiations?” I ask in one breath, but I can’t meet his eyes.
When I look up again at him again, he’s smiling, and amusement flickers in his eyes. “I knew there had to be something you want.”
“There is.” My face feels a million degrees as I break out into a sweat.
“Lola, you’re flushed,” he says, amused. “What is it?”
“I, um—” I clear my throat. God. How do I say this?
“Spit it out, Lola. It can’t be that bad.”
“I don’t want the money.”
“Okay, what do you want?”
“The guitar lessons, for one. . .”
“And?”
“And.” Oh god, I’m going to pass out from embarrassment.
“And what, Lola? What else do you want?” Karl takes my hand in his and squeezes it reassuringly, urging me to go on. I stare down while he rubs the back of my hand with one calloused finger.
I smile down at our linked hands, and without looking up, I close my eyes and blurt it out in one breath before I chicken out. “Guitar lessons, and . . .
[you can read Lola's indecent proposal in Running from the Blaze, releasing January 11, 2022]
January 6, 2022
Running From The Blaze
ARC review 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
As I started reading this I had no idea I wouldn’t be able to put this down till I finished it in one setting. This story was very captivating and filled with so much emotion and passion between Karl and Lola.
These two were perfect for each other, both with past that left them broken inside. Trying to pretend to be in a relationship lead them both to feelings that they didn’t expect.
I loved everything about this story and I would absolutely highly recommend it ❤️
ARC review 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
As I started reading this I had no idea I wouldn’t be able to put this down till I finished it in one setting. This story was very captivating and filled with so much emotion and passion between Karl and Lola.
These two were perfect for each other, both with past that left them broken inside. Trying to pretend to be in a relationship lead them both to feelings that they didn’t expect.
I loved everything about this story and I would absolutely highly recommend it ❤️
January 11, 2022
Running from the Blaze is a multifaceted rockstar romance that about more than just making music and success. It is about finding your place in this world and fighting for your heart.
The author writes this story in a way that each page we anticipate the characters feelings. The relationship has so much chemistry, but also the building of a friendship between Karl and Lola. Karl is fighting his desire for Lola, trying to stay in the lines. Lola makes it clear that she wants him or rather his body and is doing all she can to push him to her way of thinking.
This story is surprisingly emotional. It is a great balance between romance and angst. Running from the Blaze is a beautiful story of finding your place. It is about controlling you destiny. Lola and Karl are two souls destined to be together. Their hearts are fated to live as one.
Full review at https://bookcaseandcoffee.com
The author writes this story in a way that each page we anticipate the characters feelings. The relationship has so much chemistry, but also the building of a friendship between Karl and Lola. Karl is fighting his desire for Lola, trying to stay in the lines. Lola makes it clear that she wants him or rather his body and is doing all she can to push him to her way of thinking.
This story is surprisingly emotional. It is a great balance between romance and angst. Running from the Blaze is a beautiful story of finding your place. It is about controlling you destiny. Lola and Karl are two souls destined to be together. Their hearts are fated to live as one.
Full review at https://bookcaseandcoffee.com
April 30, 2022
I loved this story! Mostly because I actually liked Karl. I didn't and still don't like Bren from book 1. But anyway. I loved seeing Karl and Lola.learn to open themselves to love. Besides some sometimes cringy dirty talk, this was a big winner for me. Happy reading!
January 8, 2022
What can I say except that I absolutely loved this book. Ofelia Martinez did not disappoint with her second installment of the Industrial November on Tour Series. This is the story of Lola and Karl. I love how the whole story just flowed and was so easy to read. I read it in a day. Ofelia is definitely one of my favorite authors. I can't wait for book three.
December 28, 2021
I enjoyed the first book. I never thought I would love this one more. The book has some funny moments and the letter broke me. I really enjoyed reading this book. Can't wait for the next book in the series. Thank you Ofelia for showing us the Mexico you never get to see. I'm in love with these books.
January 12, 2022
I’m so glad I stumbled upon Ofelia Martinez. Her books never disappoint!!! In Running from the Blaze we get to know more about Lola and Karl that have been introduced in earlier books. The complexity of the characters kept me engrossed in the story wanting to find out more!!
April 22, 2024
Where do I start?! I received an advanced reader copy of Running from the Blaze in exchange for an honest review.
I became a fan of Martinez’s writing with her first novel, Remission. I fell in love with her writing with the release of her first Industrial November on Tour novel- Hiding in the Smoke. Running from the Blaze did not let me down, and is the winner of ‘my FAVORITE book of 2021’.
Martinez’s ability to create this world that you can so easily visualize while you take in her words is phenomenal. Her characters are amazingly well written, and I felt like I was part of their world as I read Running from the Blaze.
Karl is a sexy as sin rock-god, who is so sweet and caring. Lola is just trying to make it in a world where she doesn’t seem to be wanted. From the moment they meet, you root for them to have the HEA, even if you have to suffer through some heartbreak first. Their chemistry is off the charts, and the steam level for these two- I’d say a 10/10.
I know we have a couple more Industrial November band members to learn about (and I can’t wait), but I won’t be upset at all if Lola and Karl make another appearance.
I became a fan of Martinez’s writing with her first novel, Remission. I fell in love with her writing with the release of her first Industrial November on Tour novel- Hiding in the Smoke. Running from the Blaze did not let me down, and is the winner of ‘my FAVORITE book of 2021’.
Martinez’s ability to create this world that you can so easily visualize while you take in her words is phenomenal. Her characters are amazingly well written, and I felt like I was part of their world as I read Running from the Blaze.
Karl is a sexy as sin rock-god, who is so sweet and caring. Lola is just trying to make it in a world where she doesn’t seem to be wanted. From the moment they meet, you root for them to have the HEA, even if you have to suffer through some heartbreak first. Their chemistry is off the charts, and the steam level for these two- I’d say a 10/10.
I know we have a couple more Industrial November band members to learn about (and I can’t wait), but I won’t be upset at all if Lola and Karl make another appearance.
June 21, 2022
Lola and karl relationship is cutie from the moment they met they have a chemistry that can't be denied. Lola has work for what she has & is set to go back home soon. Karl. Is the guitarists in industrial of November who want to get in to Brenner Reinhardt good graces and comes up with a plan but he will need lolas help. I have read every book ofelia martinez so far and im never disappointed. She make the MC relateable in more then one way. I cant wait for the next book in the series. This 18+ with some spicy book you wont want to put down.
February 3, 2022
Omg! So I was given this arc and even though it took a while for me to read it, once I started I couldn’t put it down until I finished it. I just finished and it’s one in the morning lol that’s how good it was! Karl and Lola were two lonely souls and when they finally come together it’s wonderful. Omg and all the sexual tension and then all the sexual encounters ughhh! Love love love! Totally recommend, everyone go read it.
January 10, 2022
I was so excited to read Lola and Karl’s story. Their story is everyhing I hoped and more. Karl and Lola’s first encounter was cute and funny and a little sticky. The chemistry was undeniable from the start. This story pulled me in and I could not put it down. Lola is smart, witty, strong willed, and passionate about music. Karl is surprisingly not the wild rockstar the media makes him out to be. He has a huge heart of gold and is a bit of a romantic. Their connection is instant and develop a beautiful friendship that slow burns into something more. There was some push and pull and a lot of temptation from Lola’s part, but they needed to learn to heal themselves before truly loving each other.
Overall, this story was beautiful, funny, sweet, and steamy, filled with a lot of rock music references. Karl and Lola were the cutest and Pixel, their dog was the cherry on top. I enjoyed learning more about Adrian and hopefully get to read his story soon.
** ARC received in exchange for an honest review **
Overall, this story was beautiful, funny, sweet, and steamy, filled with a lot of rock music references. Karl and Lola were the cutest and Pixel, their dog was the cherry on top. I enjoyed learning more about Adrian and hopefully get to read his story soon.
** ARC received in exchange for an honest review **
Want to read
April 9, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/9/2022)! 🎁
April 23, 2022
Loved this story!
November 18, 2022
Lola has a secret
Lola is still devastated by her parents death and working hard to move closer to her aunt, the only remaining relative. When her best friend offers her a high paying cleaning job we jumps at the chance. Karl is considered a rock god. When he walks into his kitchen and finds a young woman perched on his counter, his first thought is that one of his crazy fans managed to break into his house. He was wrong.
I loved these well written, compelling, and realistic characters. Steamy romance with an unexpected twist, and a happily ever after. I loved this book.
Lola is still devastated by her parents death and working hard to move closer to her aunt, the only remaining relative. When her best friend offers her a high paying cleaning job we jumps at the chance. Karl is considered a rock god. When he walks into his kitchen and finds a young woman perched on his counter, his first thought is that one of his crazy fans managed to break into his house. He was wrong.
I loved these well written, compelling, and realistic characters. Steamy romance with an unexpected twist, and a happily ever after. I loved this book.
December 27, 2021
After Hiding in the Smoke, Ofelia Martinez has me hooked. For the second installment of the Industrial November series, we get to know Karl, the youngest and hottest member of the band. He is living the rock star life but there is more to Karl than meets the eye. Lola lost her parents after finding out a family secret. Closing up her life in the US, she plans to move to Mexico with her Tia to help her with her restaurant. However, Karl is in desperate need of cleaning up his reputation and Lola would like to save as much money before she moves. They form an agreement to help each other out and things get a little steamy....
Ok, I loved this book! There were a few aspects that I didn't like but those are minor details... like miscommunication lol I see it as a necessary evil though.
- Latinx book
- The bad boy meets the good girl.
- Miscommunication
- Fake Dating
- He's older, she's younger (not a huge age gap but an age gap none the less)
I love that Martinez created a character that does not look like your stereotypical Mexican woman! Normally, I'm all for brown hair, skin, and eyes because we don't see it too often in the books that we read. BUT in this case, I think it is important to depict that Mexican women come in all shapes and sizes.
This book really pulled at my heart strings. With Lola having lost her parents, moving away from the only home she's ever known and Karl's upbringing... they both need hugs.
But it was also one GIANT tease (thanks, Martinez). I think Martinez creatively strings us along the relationship with some spice, miscommunication, and building a great friendship between Karl and Lola. Most of the book, Karl is fighting his desire for Lola, while Lola makes it clear that she wants him or rather his body. Add in some miscommunication and they both feel they are acting because of their arrangement -_-
This is the aspect of the book that I both loved and hated. We just want Karl to give in but props to Lola for going after what she wants and being confident in herself, her body, and her desire! Seriously, some of the steamy scenes are FIRE!
Overall, the book was awesome and I can't wait for the next book!
Ok, I loved this book! There were a few aspects that I didn't like but those are minor details... like miscommunication lol I see it as a necessary evil though.
- Latinx book
- The bad boy meets the good girl.
- Miscommunication
- Fake Dating
- He's older, she's younger (not a huge age gap but an age gap none the less)
I love that Martinez created a character that does not look like your stereotypical Mexican woman! Normally, I'm all for brown hair, skin, and eyes because we don't see it too often in the books that we read. BUT in this case, I think it is important to depict that Mexican women come in all shapes and sizes.
This book really pulled at my heart strings. With Lola having lost her parents, moving away from the only home she's ever known and Karl's upbringing... they both need hugs.
But it was also one GIANT tease (thanks, Martinez). I think Martinez creatively strings us along the relationship with some spice, miscommunication, and building a great friendship between Karl and Lola. Most of the book, Karl is fighting his desire for Lola, while Lola makes it clear that she wants him or rather his body. Add in some miscommunication and they both feel they are acting because of their arrangement -_-
This is the aspect of the book that I both loved and hated. We just want Karl to give in but props to Lola for going after what she wants and being confident in herself, her body, and her desire! Seriously, some of the steamy scenes are FIRE!
Overall, the book was awesome and I can't wait for the next book!
January 11, 2022
amazing slow burn
This was a wonderful slow burn fake dating story that had some serious sexual tension! It built and built until they finally combusted together and I was swooning!
I have read most if not all of this author’s work and I am so proud of the growth I have seen in her writing! I am excited to see how the rest of this series progresses.
This was a wonderful slow burn fake dating story that had some serious sexual tension! It built and built until they finally combusted together and I was swooning!
I have read most if not all of this author’s work and I am so proud of the growth I have seen in her writing! I am excited to see how the rest of this series progresses.
January 14, 2022
Omg I love the on going joke between Karl and Lola!!!! Pixel was the amazing fur baby that was needed.
March 10, 2022
Running From The Blaze by Ofelia Martinez. Comes out January 11th.
.
This is the second book in the Industrial November series but can be read as a standalone. As always, I love Ofelia’s writing. She always writes strong badass Latina characters that are so easy for me to identify and connect with.
.
🌶 Ofelia turns up the heat even more in this story, so heads up this is 18+, no trigger warning necessary though. It’s just…spicyyy.
.
Running From The Blaze is a dual POV with Latinx + German characters. It’s pretty fast paced; I really enjoyed Lola + Karl’s first interaction right at the beginning of the book. You will be sucked in and invested in Lola and Karl right away.
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This is a rockstar romance with so many mentions and nods to rock. I loved it.
As a singer and guitar player myself, I absolutely loved getting to read a romance set in a rock music world. It also really inspired me to be better with practicing my guitar consistently this year.
.
Okay, so heads up, this story has a virgin trope. I don’t normally like this trope because of how it’s written/used, however, it is handled responsibly in this story. In other words, nothing gross or dark. There is a lot of spicy scenes. Not a bad thing, but I almost felt like it was too much at times, honestly probably just a testament to how well Ofelia writes these scene haha.
This was sent to me in advance to read in exchange for my honest opinion. And well, my honest opinion is that this is a really fun, at times cute, well written and developed, spicy book. Go preorder!! 😛
June 16, 2022
Even though I love rock star romances, I sometimes approach them warily because rock stars can be such egocentric jerks. That’s not the case in Running from the Blaze, where the hero, Karl, is a total sweetheart. Yes, he’s smoking-hot, but he’s also a guy who’s passionate about his music and cares a lot about the people around him. He definitely has issues to work out, but he grows a lot as the story progresses. I also loved Lola, the fiercely independent, strong-willed 19-year-old woman who comes into his life and changes it for the better. Although this is a slow-burn romance, there are plenty of deliciously spicy scenes woven throughout the book. Bonus points for Pixel, the adorable, scene-stealing dog!
January 4, 2022
I received an ARC for an honest review.
Fake dating. Rock star.
Lola and Karl... Just... 😍
Okay but for real, this is an amazing story between a 19 year old girl just leaning how to live her life after life altering news and a tragic accident, and a guy that the media has dubbed a rock god and party boy.
Lola is a very smart, music-driven, quick-witted, strong-willed, take no shit woman.
Karl he is an absolute sweetheart and don't judge him by the cover that his band manager and media give him.
These characters feel so real in all of the author's books that I feel like I can go to Kansas City and bump into them on the street. And it honestly makes me a little sad to realize when I finish the book that these are fictional people not real life.
From the very first encounter that you have between Lola and Karl, you start to laugh and immediately feel the chemistry between the two. The way that they both just automatically understand each other and they'll protective over each other is amazing. Especially since the author made it to where it's not cringe-worthy or in your face. It feels very natural.
As the story progresses you get to see Lola and Karl come out of their shells with each other and realize that they can start to believe in themselves as well.
Before I was even halfway through with the book I was severely rooting for them. I was really hoping that they would both pull their heads out of their asses and they would open up and be honest about their feelings about everything.
I will never look at a jar of peanut butter the same again. Peanut butter will always make my heart swell with love and I will automatically think of Lola, Karl, and Pixel.
Fake dating. Rock star.
Lola and Karl... Just... 😍
Okay but for real, this is an amazing story between a 19 year old girl just leaning how to live her life after life altering news and a tragic accident, and a guy that the media has dubbed a rock god and party boy.
Lola is a very smart, music-driven, quick-witted, strong-willed, take no shit woman.
Karl he is an absolute sweetheart and don't judge him by the cover that his band manager and media give him.
These characters feel so real in all of the author's books that I feel like I can go to Kansas City and bump into them on the street. And it honestly makes me a little sad to realize when I finish the book that these are fictional people not real life.
From the very first encounter that you have between Lola and Karl, you start to laugh and immediately feel the chemistry between the two. The way that they both just automatically understand each other and they'll protective over each other is amazing. Especially since the author made it to where it's not cringe-worthy or in your face. It feels very natural.
As the story progresses you get to see Lola and Karl come out of their shells with each other and realize that they can start to believe in themselves as well.
Before I was even halfway through with the book I was severely rooting for them. I was really hoping that they would both pull their heads out of their asses and they would open up and be honest about their feelings about everything.
I will never look at a jar of peanut butter the same again. Peanut butter will always make my heart swell with love and I will automatically think of Lola, Karl, and Pixel.
January 11, 2022
I went into this book not really knowing what to expect. I figured it would be a stereotypical fake relationship trope. And although that is an element of the story line it is not the most influential on the growth of the characters.
Lola is a mature 19 year old just trying to make do until she can get herself back to her only blood family left, in Mexico, and start fresh. Karl is the newest member of Industrial November and trying to prove himself to the rest of the band. The two meet in an unusual way but quickly learn that they have many common interest.
I really enjoyed that Martinez did not start hot and heavy with these characters (although there is plenty of steamy build up). Both Lola and Karl are struggling with a past beyond their control that has shaped who they are and their relationships. Each is looking for an honest love but do not believe they will find it with each other. As feelings build and past fears arise, conflict is unavoidable.
When both seem to have made peace with life, they begin to realize that the past does not have to control the future. They can live the life they want, if only they chose to do so.
I loved that we get to see how both Lola and Karl mature throughout this book. They figure out issues alone and together. And are good reminders that we never know one's whole story from a surface look.
Lola is a mature 19 year old just trying to make do until she can get herself back to her only blood family left, in Mexico, and start fresh. Karl is the newest member of Industrial November and trying to prove himself to the rest of the band. The two meet in an unusual way but quickly learn that they have many common interest.
I really enjoyed that Martinez did not start hot and heavy with these characters (although there is plenty of steamy build up). Both Lola and Karl are struggling with a past beyond their control that has shaped who they are and their relationships. Each is looking for an honest love but do not believe they will find it with each other. As feelings build and past fears arise, conflict is unavoidable.
When both seem to have made peace with life, they begin to realize that the past does not have to control the future. They can live the life they want, if only they chose to do so.
I loved that we get to see how both Lola and Karl mature throughout this book. They figure out issues alone and together. And are good reminders that we never know one's whole story from a surface look.
October 3, 2023
Absolutely loved this book! I practically read it overnight and couldn't put it down. Every time I would hit the end the a chapter, something would happen that had me turning the page to see what was going to happen next.
Lola was such a strong character with a wild untamed side that had me rooting for her from beginning to end. She is hardworking and ridiculously funny. She had a few lines that had me cackling. Karl was a very complex character in my opinion and I did grow to love him about half way through the book, but more than anything, I loved his dynamic with Lola. They had such a palpable chemistry that had me giddy. The lust for each other was almost immediate but I would still consider this book a slow burn. It does have a few explicit scenes so I wouldn't recommend to anyone below the age of 18. There is other adult content in this book, along with mentionings of immigration status, drug abuse, alcohol abuse, anxiety, and adult language.
Aside from that is you like:
-Steamy romances
-Rockstar romance
-Fake dating trope
-Slow but spicy burn
-Strong Latine FMCs
-"She's mine."
Then this book is THE ONE for you.
Lola was such a strong character with a wild untamed side that had me rooting for her from beginning to end. She is hardworking and ridiculously funny. She had a few lines that had me cackling. Karl was a very complex character in my opinion and I did grow to love him about half way through the book, but more than anything, I loved his dynamic with Lola. They had such a palpable chemistry that had me giddy. The lust for each other was almost immediate but I would still consider this book a slow burn. It does have a few explicit scenes so I wouldn't recommend to anyone below the age of 18. There is other adult content in this book, along with mentionings of immigration status, drug abuse, alcohol abuse, anxiety, and adult language.
Aside from that is you like:
-Steamy romances
-Rockstar romance
-Fake dating trope
-Slow but spicy burn
-Strong Latine FMCs
-"She's mine."
Then this book is THE ONE for you.
March 6, 2023
Saw this on Booktok and thought, "Oooo a Latina character? Sign me up". I looked it up to see if my local library had it and sadly they didn't. So then I checked on Amazon and it was $5 for the Kindle version. And how I wish I could have those $5 back.
I genuinely don't understand why this book has such a high score. I found Lola immature and her persistent advances on Karl after he told her no just gross. But Karl is no saint either. Why are you giving the poor girl mixed signals? My biggest pet peeve was the lack of communication between the characters. These petty arguments could've been avoided if they had been honest with one another from the very beginning.
Also, the ending was laughable. Please save your money and time with this book.
I genuinely don't understand why this book has such a high score. I found Lola immature and her persistent advances on Karl after he told her no just gross. But Karl is no saint either. Why are you giving the poor girl mixed signals? My biggest pet peeve was the lack of communication between the characters. These petty arguments could've been avoided if they had been honest with one another from the very beginning.
Also, the ending was laughable. Please save your money and time with this book.
September 7, 2022
I am truly in awe with this beautiful story. Lola and Karl are absolute perfection and this book goes straight to my favorite shelf.
Lola is so relatable, I’ve been craving to read a heroine like her. A Latina with all the heavy immigrant weight on her shoulders. My heart ached for her and I cried because she is very much real. And Karl! OMG, that mannis perfection. So wounded and hurt in need of a home that he found in Lola. Their ups and downs and the slowest— yet so beautiful burn ever made their love an epic story!
Can’t wait to get more of this series and more of thid author. I already downloaded her entire backlist!
Lola is so relatable, I’ve been craving to read a heroine like her. A Latina with all the heavy immigrant weight on her shoulders. My heart ached for her and I cried because she is very much real. And Karl! OMG, that mannis perfection. So wounded and hurt in need of a home that he found in Lola. Their ups and downs and the slowest— yet so beautiful burn ever made their love an epic story!
Can’t wait to get more of this series and more of thid author. I already downloaded her entire backlist!
January 10, 2022
In Running from the Blaze, the heroine, Lola, is a young woman who’s had to grow up too fast. As she’s saving up for a big move, she meets Karl, a rock band guitarist. Their chemistry is electric, but Lola is forbidden since she’s a good friend of his overprotective bandmate’s partner. Still, they come up with a fake-date scheme to salvage his reputation. Together, they’re such DELICIOUS trouble. I enjoyed every minute of this combustible couple, and the subtext of overcoming rejection was thoughtfully done. A fantastic, sexy slow-burn romance.
April 27, 2022
3.5
These damn rockstars! lol I cannot quit them
The first 2/3's of this book were a little uneven for me HOWEVER it was all worth it for the final third! IMO, Hiding in the Smoke was a more solid book and the progression of Sofia & Bren's relationship felt natural. Lola and Karl's relationship, however, wasn't as strong. BUT, I think it all makes sense once the big surprise gets dropped later in the book
I'm sticking with Industrial November - and the last few chapters of this book has me pumped for the next!
These damn rockstars! lol I cannot quit them
The first 2/3's of this book were a little uneven for me HOWEVER it was all worth it for the final third! IMO, Hiding in the Smoke was a more solid book and the progression of Sofia & Bren's relationship felt natural. Lola and Karl's relationship, however, wasn't as strong. BUT, I think it all makes sense once the big surprise gets dropped later in the book
I'm sticking with Industrial November - and the last few chapters of this book has me pumped for the next!
May 16, 2023
I am love, love, loving. this author. This is the 2nd book of Her's that I have read and enjoyed. I am married to a guitar player, we both love rock and metal, so I am digging the music references. Love the Spanish/Mexican references/influences. The characters are so good, she has developed good background info. Lola has lived a lifetime in a short amount of time, she's an old soul. Karl, though older, relates to her; they both have secrets to keep. My heart broke for Lola at one point.....but it works out in the end. I highly recommend this series. I am on to book 3.
January 19, 2022
DREAMERS!!!!
OMG!!!
What can I tell you? You MUST read this story!!!!
I was doing so well with this story! I’m really starting to think that my heart is a treacherous one!!! 🤣 One minute I’m reading the story and been all happy and giggling about Karl and Lola’s encounters, and then…. chingadazo…… I’m crying my eyes out!!!! 😭 Seriously, couldn’t keep reading cause I couldn’t make out the words with all the water works!!!!!
OMG!!!
What can I tell you? You MUST read this story!!!!
I was doing so well with this story! I’m really starting to think that my heart is a treacherous one!!! 🤣 One minute I’m reading the story and been all happy and giggling about Karl and Lola’s encounters, and then…. chingadazo…… I’m crying my eyes out!!!! 😭 Seriously, couldn’t keep reading cause I couldn’t make out the words with all the water works!!!!!
January 20, 2022
ANOTHER HIT!
This may have been my favorite story from Ofelia yet!! Loved Lola and Karl 🥰🥰 I knew after reading Bren and Sophia’s story that I would be waiting on pins and needles for book 2 and I wasn’t wrong. This story was so good! I laughed, I cried, and I was envious. I want to be Lola and be her friend. Heck, I want a Karl of my own. I cannot wait to see what’s next from this author!
This may have been my favorite story from Ofelia yet!! Loved Lola and Karl 🥰🥰 I knew after reading Bren and Sophia’s story that I would be waiting on pins and needles for book 2 and I wasn’t wrong. This story was so good! I laughed, I cried, and I was envious. I want to be Lola and be her friend. Heck, I want a Karl of my own. I cannot wait to see what’s next from this author!
January 11, 2022
Running from the Blaze by Ofelia Martinez
⭐️4.25/5
🔥4/5
This Is the second book of the Industrial November Tour but you can read it as a standalone. It’s a Rockstar fake romance story. I feel like Karl is so hot 🥵 based on the description of him lol. It’s a slow burn to me since most steam was towards the end and I gave it 4.25 as the story wasn’t really believable to me.
⭐️4.25/5
🔥4/5
This Is the second book of the Industrial November Tour but you can read it as a standalone. It’s a Rockstar fake romance story. I feel like Karl is so hot 🥵 based on the description of him lol. It’s a slow burn to me since most steam was towards the end and I gave it 4.25 as the story wasn’t really believable to me.
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