Big chicas don't cry

Chavez Macias chronicles a year in the life of a close-knit Mexican American family in this heartwarming story. Cousins Mari, Gracie, Erica, and Selena were inseparable through their teen years, but when Mari's parents divorce, she drifts away from the group. Years later, their beloved abuelita has a life-threatening medical emergency, bringing Mari back into the fold. Mari's marriage is on the rocks, and she could use some friends; but the other cousins have their own tumultuous lives. Gracie is a first-grade teacher, and the new basketball coach is her childhood crush. Erica loves her job as a journalist, but she might be falling in love with her new, demanding boss. Selena is struggling to advance at her job, and her no-strings-attached lover wants more. Chapters are presented from alternating points of view, giving the reader a glimpse into each woman's inner life as she navigates work and love. Chavez Macias has given readers a joyful exploration of family and friendship featuring four memorable characters whose struggles and triumphs will resonate with readers. It's a great choice for fans of Susan Mallery and Mariah Stewart.

Four cousins spend a year resolving old issues and healing past wounds in this addictive family drama from Chavez Macias (Her Sweet Seduction, written as Sabrina Sol). Cousins Marisol, Erica, Selena, and Gracie were exceptionally close as children, until Marisol's parents divorced and she was forced to move away as a teen, straining her relationship with the others. Now 28, she's unhappy in her marriage and feels like the family outcast. Meanwhile, Erica struggles to find satisfaction in her job even as she crushes on her new boss. Selena's fear has her denying her true feelings for her friend with benefits, pushing him to break off their arrangement when he wants more. And Graciela, a devoutly religious teacher, struggles with her physical attraction to her school's new PE teacher, a man she had a crush on years ago. All four women must face their issues head-on when they come together to grieve the loss of the family matriarch. Through heart-to-hearts, good food, and family tradition, the women rebuild their relationship with one another--and with their significant others. Chavez Macias loads her well-rounded story with charismatic characters, vivid descriptions, and appealing cultural specificity. This is a treat. Agent: Sarah Younger, NY Literary. (Sept.)