Big Chicas Don't Cry: life, love and family

Big Chicas Don’t Cry by Annette Chavez Macias is the story of four women as they navigate love, loss and the meaning of family. Cousins Mari, Erica, Selena and Gracie are inseparable. More than cousins, more than sisters, more than just family, they are the best of friends. They share secrets, traditions and love for their family. Their idyllic childhood is shattered when Mari’s parents divorce and she moves away. Now, fifteen years later, they struggle to find the same closeness they once had. They struggle with relationships, careers and their place in the world. As rocky as their lives have become, they are shaken to the core when a beloved family member dies. When they gather together, their shared tragedy reunites them. Will they remember the lessons of life, love and family? Or has their long separation been too long to overcome? 

As September 15th begins Hispanic Heritage Month, I was looking forward to reading this story. With a gorgeous cover, Big Chicas Don’t Cry promised to be a great story. Unfortunately, I wasn’t wowed by the story. I loved the closeness of the family and their banter back and forth. What I didn’t love is the teasing and, essentially, shaming one character for being a virgin at almost thirty! Oh No! Insert eye roll. Seriously!?!? I also didn’t care for the literal tantrum one character has when a customer in front of her bought the last pastry. While disappointing, I would never embarrass myself in such a way. Of course, as a plot device, that customer becomes a very important person in her workplace. Again insert eye roll. Overall, I had high hopes for this story but was disappointed. I do not recommend Big Chicas Don’t Cry. 

Big Chicas Don’t Cry is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook