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Quinceanera Club #1
Damas, Dramas, and Ana Ruiz
All Ana Ruiz wanted was to have a traditional quinceañera for her daughter, Carmen. She wanted a nice way to mark this milestone year in her daughter's life. But Carmen was not interested in celebrating. Hurt and bitter over her father Esteban's departure, she blamed Ana for destroying their happy family, as did everyone else. A good man is hard to find, especially at your age Ana was told. Why not forgive his one indiscretion? Despite everything, Ana didn't want to tarnish Carmen's childlike devotion to her beloved father. But Ana knows that growing up sometimes means facing hard truths. In the end, Ana discovers that if she's going to teach Carmen anything about what it means to be a woman, it will take more than simply a fancy party to do it...
"Belinda Acosta's Damas, Dramas, and Ana Ruiz delivers all its title promises and more: it's a book about damas of all ages, from teenage girls to the struggling mothers of those teenage girls; it's packed with drama so you don't want to stop reading; it's a novel that deeply and honestly tells the story of Ana Ruiz, her own coming of age as a woman and as a mother. Belinda Acosta is up to all of the challenges of such a rich panorama of characters and events. She's sassy, she's smart, she makes it look easy! But it takes a lot of hard work and a pile of talent to write such an engaging, touching book. A wonderful quinceañera of a novel!"
--- Julia Alvarez, author of Once Upon a Quinceañera: Coming of Age in the USA and Return to Sender
"Lively and perceptive... Acosta empathically captures the innermost feelings of her characters."
--- Booklist
"Belinda Acosta's Damas, Dramas, and Ana Ruiz delivers all its title promises and more: it's a book about damas of all ages, from teenage girls to the struggling mothers of those teenage girls; it's packed with drama so you don't want to stop reading; it's a novel that deeply and honestly tells the story of Ana Ruiz, her own coming of age as a woman and as a mother. Belinda Acosta is up to all of the challenges of such a rich panorama of characters and events. She's sassy, she's smart, she makes it look easy! But it takes a lot of hard work and a pile of talent to write such an engaging, touching book. A wonderful quinceañera of a novel!"
--- Julia Alvarez, author of Once Upon a Quinceañera: Coming of Age in the USA and Return to Sender
"Lively and perceptive... Acosta empathically captures the innermost feelings of her characters."
--- Booklist
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2009
1 person is currently reading
67 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
March 7, 2014
I'm an East coast Latina. I grew up in a predominately Latino neighborhood, and went to school with large Latino populations. I have never heard Spanglish the way it's used in this book. Never... ever ever.
maybe Latinos in San Antonio speak this way, and I realize this is fiction but I found myself annoyed with the stereotypes ( machismo in every male character), the spicy Latina stereotype, as well as the mouthy teenager- because no one has written about that before right?
When I saw the title, I wanted a light read, and was excited that the book was about a quince.
I'm disappointed that as Latinos, we continue to perpetuate these ridiculous and outdated stereotypes.
Oh right, then there is a "strong" female in there, who spends the majority of the time waiting for a man to decide her fate. I'll use a little Spanglish and say Por fa, ugh.
maybe Latinos in San Antonio speak this way, and I realize this is fiction but I found myself annoyed with the stereotypes ( machismo in every male character), the spicy Latina stereotype, as well as the mouthy teenager- because no one has written about that before right?
When I saw the title, I wanted a light read, and was excited that the book was about a quince.
I'm disappointed that as Latinos, we continue to perpetuate these ridiculous and outdated stereotypes.
Oh right, then there is a "strong" female in there, who spends the majority of the time waiting for a man to decide her fate. I'll use a little Spanglish and say Por fa, ugh.
August 28, 2009
DAMAS, DRAMAS, AND ANA RUIZ: A QUINCEAÑERA CLUB NOVEL by Belinda Acosta was quite the funny and moving read. Full of moments that any mother or daughter can relate to, this story pulled at my heart while leaving me chuckling at the same time. I would highly recommend this book to any lady looking for a nice read, a good laugh and a general feeling of happiness.
All Ana wanted was a nice celebration to mark her daughter’s transition into womanhood. How then, did she end up with mass chaos and destruction? The party is in shambles, her daughter hates her and the world is likely about to end. Where did she go wrong?
DAMAS, DRAMAS, AND ANA RUIZ follows the story of Ana and her daughter Carmen beginning with the day of the big party. The narrator adds quite a bit of humor as she pauses the event and takes us through the chaotic events that are about to happen. To better understand it all, before the whole party explodes, the narrator brings us back to the day that Ana first decided to throw a Quinceañera for her daughter. Of course Carmen is none too pleased, still blaming Ana for her father leaving and makes life fairly miserable.
The story leading up to the party is full of bratty teenage behavior, tender moments, hilarious moments, and an overall story that makes you think that there just might be hope for all distanced mothers and daughters out there. I found DAMAS, DRAMAS, AND ANA RUIZ to be highly entertaining and actually quite touching. This is definitely a book that earned a treasured spot on the bookshelf.
As I’ve mentioned, there are quite a few bits of humor thrown throughout the book. Much like the beginning, Acosta writes the story in such a way that you can pause the images in your head and shudder as you know the disaster that’s about to happen. I wouldn’t say that the story is necessarily predictable, but there are times when it’s obvious that something is going to happen. This just made the story that much more enjoyable to me. It added to the humor aspect and then also allowed us to focus on the deeper aspects of the book such as the character’s emotions and the reasons that things are happening the way they are.
Another great aspect of DAMAS, DRAMAS, AND ANA RUIZ for me was the characters. A lot of work obviously went into the creation of each of the characters, including any minor characters. I felt that the reader really got to know each person and become acquainted with them throughout the entire story. The characters were complex, adding a nice amount of depth to the story and giving us more to ponder. Acosta did a great job with this and really managed to bring her characters to life.
One great thing that I found about DAMAS, DRAMAS, AND ANA RUIZ was how much I got to learn about another culture through reading the story. Through the language and customs, Acosta seemed to stay fairly true to Ana and Carmen’s culture. I imagine this would be a great read for many girls wanting to learn a little bit more outside of their own culture.
The story was wonderful, the characters detailed and the pacing was just right. I would warn readers; however, that Acosta does give her characters fairly authentic dialog. Throughout the book, Spanish is used quite freely and occasionally I had to look words up to figure out what was going on. I don’t think that it really detracted from the book; instead, I felt like I may have actually learned something in the process!
All Ana wanted was a nice celebration to mark her daughter’s transition into womanhood. How then, did she end up with mass chaos and destruction? The party is in shambles, her daughter hates her and the world is likely about to end. Where did she go wrong?
DAMAS, DRAMAS, AND ANA RUIZ follows the story of Ana and her daughter Carmen beginning with the day of the big party. The narrator adds quite a bit of humor as she pauses the event and takes us through the chaotic events that are about to happen. To better understand it all, before the whole party explodes, the narrator brings us back to the day that Ana first decided to throw a Quinceañera for her daughter. Of course Carmen is none too pleased, still blaming Ana for her father leaving and makes life fairly miserable.
The story leading up to the party is full of bratty teenage behavior, tender moments, hilarious moments, and an overall story that makes you think that there just might be hope for all distanced mothers and daughters out there. I found DAMAS, DRAMAS, AND ANA RUIZ to be highly entertaining and actually quite touching. This is definitely a book that earned a treasured spot on the bookshelf.
As I’ve mentioned, there are quite a few bits of humor thrown throughout the book. Much like the beginning, Acosta writes the story in such a way that you can pause the images in your head and shudder as you know the disaster that’s about to happen. I wouldn’t say that the story is necessarily predictable, but there are times when it’s obvious that something is going to happen. This just made the story that much more enjoyable to me. It added to the humor aspect and then also allowed us to focus on the deeper aspects of the book such as the character’s emotions and the reasons that things are happening the way they are.
Another great aspect of DAMAS, DRAMAS, AND ANA RUIZ for me was the characters. A lot of work obviously went into the creation of each of the characters, including any minor characters. I felt that the reader really got to know each person and become acquainted with them throughout the entire story. The characters were complex, adding a nice amount of depth to the story and giving us more to ponder. Acosta did a great job with this and really managed to bring her characters to life.
One great thing that I found about DAMAS, DRAMAS, AND ANA RUIZ was how much I got to learn about another culture through reading the story. Through the language and customs, Acosta seemed to stay fairly true to Ana and Carmen’s culture. I imagine this would be a great read for many girls wanting to learn a little bit more outside of their own culture.
The story was wonderful, the characters detailed and the pacing was just right. I would warn readers; however, that Acosta does give her characters fairly authentic dialog. Throughout the book, Spanish is used quite freely and occasionally I had to look words up to figure out what was going on. I don’t think that it really detracted from the book; instead, I felt like I may have actually learned something in the process!
August 16, 2009
This review was originally posted on my review blog : Falling Off The Shelf.
Things haven't been going as well as they should be between Ana Ruiz and her husband Esteban, and now he's picked up and left. Now she is left to take care of their two children, Carmen and Diego, while he goes off and tries to figure out what he wants to do with his life, and the decisions he has made. It's not easy to take care of two teenage children that don't understand the circumstances of a seperation, and Ana is going loco trying to keep things under control.
Carmen is angry with her mother, Ana. She knows that it's her mother's fault her father has left. It can't possibly be her 'apa that's done something wrong Daddy's little girl knows that he could never do anything to hurt anyone. She shows her mother nothing but disrespect, and outrage, not even sitting with her mother during a meal. It's just too painful to know that her father has left, and might not come back.
Ana wants nothing more than to have a relationship with her daughter Carmen. She can't tell her why her father is not there, because although Carmen is treating her horribly, she can't hurt her daughter with the truth. When the idea of celebrating Carmen's fifteenth birthday arises, Ana suggests throwing a Quinceanera to announce Carmen's arrival into womanhood. Carmen wants nothing to do with her mother, and that includes planning a party with her, even though the party is for Carmen herself. But when her cousin Bianca mentions that Carmen's father, Esteban, must take part in the ceremony Carmen changes her mind. She's determined to make her father participate as much as possible, in hopes that he will change his mind and come home.
I loved this novel, and had a hard time putting it down. It was very easy for me to feel the strong emotions of Acosta's characters, and I even found myself laughing and crying along with them. This author has a wonderful way of giving you the backround history of each important character, while not straying from the plot. I also both loved and disliked the use of the Spanish language throughout the book. It gave it that extra Latin flavor, and I loved that. The only reason I could even say I disliked the use of Spanish in the novel was that I had to think hard to remember what some of the words meant. I haven't been in a Spanish class for more than 5 years, but I'm glad I was able to refresh my memory.
Damas, Dramas, and Ana Ruiz is a novel about love lost, love found, growing up, and growing apart. It gives a wonderful insight to the Latin culture, and a whole new respect for it. I was very lucky to be able to review a copy of this book, thanks to Miriam Parker of Hatchette Book Group. I'm very excited to have been able to take part in the blog tour for this title, and look forward to reading more by Belinda Acosta.
Things haven't been going as well as they should be between Ana Ruiz and her husband Esteban, and now he's picked up and left. Now she is left to take care of their two children, Carmen and Diego, while he goes off and tries to figure out what he wants to do with his life, and the decisions he has made. It's not easy to take care of two teenage children that don't understand the circumstances of a seperation, and Ana is going loco trying to keep things under control.
Carmen is angry with her mother, Ana. She knows that it's her mother's fault her father has left. It can't possibly be her 'apa that's done something wrong Daddy's little girl knows that he could never do anything to hurt anyone. She shows her mother nothing but disrespect, and outrage, not even sitting with her mother during a meal. It's just too painful to know that her father has left, and might not come back.
Ana wants nothing more than to have a relationship with her daughter Carmen. She can't tell her why her father is not there, because although Carmen is treating her horribly, she can't hurt her daughter with the truth. When the idea of celebrating Carmen's fifteenth birthday arises, Ana suggests throwing a Quinceanera to announce Carmen's arrival into womanhood. Carmen wants nothing to do with her mother, and that includes planning a party with her, even though the party is for Carmen herself. But when her cousin Bianca mentions that Carmen's father, Esteban, must take part in the ceremony Carmen changes her mind. She's determined to make her father participate as much as possible, in hopes that he will change his mind and come home.
I loved this novel, and had a hard time putting it down. It was very easy for me to feel the strong emotions of Acosta's characters, and I even found myself laughing and crying along with them. This author has a wonderful way of giving you the backround history of each important character, while not straying from the plot. I also both loved and disliked the use of the Spanish language throughout the book. It gave it that extra Latin flavor, and I loved that. The only reason I could even say I disliked the use of Spanish in the novel was that I had to think hard to remember what some of the words meant. I haven't been in a Spanish class for more than 5 years, but I'm glad I was able to refresh my memory.
Damas, Dramas, and Ana Ruiz is a novel about love lost, love found, growing up, and growing apart. It gives a wonderful insight to the Latin culture, and a whole new respect for it. I was very lucky to be able to review a copy of this book, thanks to Miriam Parker of Hatchette Book Group. I'm very excited to have been able to take part in the blog tour for this title, and look forward to reading more by Belinda Acosta.
October 10, 2013
Reviewed by: Sandra L.
Member of Livin' la vida Latina
Review: The first thing that grabbed my attention was the writing style. It brings you back to the days of Mexican gatherings filled with música, cerveza, y carne asada with a telenovela blaring in the background. I especially liked how the author sprinkled in Spanish throughout the story like chile over brown rice—it definitely gave it that extra kick. It was almost like the book was written in both English and Spanish; I’d say it was about 85% English and 15% Spanish. In fact, it was almost as if my abuela had told this story with her broken English and (loud) Spanish expression.
The title definitely served the story well. This was the “damas and dramas” of Ana Ruiz with the pain she suffers from a broken marriage and the devastation she endures when her daughter looks at her with hate. And all Ana wants to do it fix it, and, for some reason, she feels a quinceañera will do it. Was she crazy? Was she trying to be mean by pushing the idea? No, she was just desperate—desperate to reconnect with her daughter, Carmen, and make it like it was before. Very heartfelt—but, again, crazy!
Carmen was a brat. It was unfair how she was so angry at her mom without getting all the facts straight. And why was everyone (her brother, her cousin, her tía, etc.) being so nice to her when she would just roll her eyes or snap at them with a smart-ass comment? That would frustrate anybody.
I liked how Ana got all giddy and nervous around Montalvo (especially when he took his shirt off) because it showed that she was still a woman, a young girl in “mom” costume. It was great that she could see a partner in him—not as a lover, per se, even though they were painted as a compatible couple throughout the story, but as a friend who’s gone through the same thing she is. It’s true what they say: misery likes company.
The plot was so well done that you can feel all the anger and pain of each character (they all have their personal demons and hidden skeletons.) It is a roller coaster ride of surprises with such a fervent impact that make the reader laugh, scream, and even throw up a little. A gripping read.
One minor thing I found a bit odd at first was how the author would deviate from one character’s setting, thoughts, and dialogue, and then transition to another character’s thoughts and feelings all within the same paragraph. Additionally, the story seemed to have been told in a fortune-teller kind of way; not only do we hear the story as it happened—as it was witnessed—but we also learn of what becomes of everyone years in the future. This definitely pushed the traditional fly-on-the-wall narration, but, somehow, it worked, and a masterpiece was born through unorthodox methods.
Member of Livin' la vida Latina
Review: The first thing that grabbed my attention was the writing style. It brings you back to the days of Mexican gatherings filled with música, cerveza, y carne asada with a telenovela blaring in the background. I especially liked how the author sprinkled in Spanish throughout the story like chile over brown rice—it definitely gave it that extra kick. It was almost like the book was written in both English and Spanish; I’d say it was about 85% English and 15% Spanish. In fact, it was almost as if my abuela had told this story with her broken English and (loud) Spanish expression.
The title definitely served the story well. This was the “damas and dramas” of Ana Ruiz with the pain she suffers from a broken marriage and the devastation she endures when her daughter looks at her with hate. And all Ana wants to do it fix it, and, for some reason, she feels a quinceañera will do it. Was she crazy? Was she trying to be mean by pushing the idea? No, she was just desperate—desperate to reconnect with her daughter, Carmen, and make it like it was before. Very heartfelt—but, again, crazy!
Carmen was a brat. It was unfair how she was so angry at her mom without getting all the facts straight. And why was everyone (her brother, her cousin, her tía, etc.) being so nice to her when she would just roll her eyes or snap at them with a smart-ass comment? That would frustrate anybody.
I liked how Ana got all giddy and nervous around Montalvo (especially when he took his shirt off) because it showed that she was still a woman, a young girl in “mom” costume. It was great that she could see a partner in him—not as a lover, per se, even though they were painted as a compatible couple throughout the story, but as a friend who’s gone through the same thing she is. It’s true what they say: misery likes company.
The plot was so well done that you can feel all the anger and pain of each character (they all have their personal demons and hidden skeletons.) It is a roller coaster ride of surprises with such a fervent impact that make the reader laugh, scream, and even throw up a little. A gripping read.
One minor thing I found a bit odd at first was how the author would deviate from one character’s setting, thoughts, and dialogue, and then transition to another character’s thoughts and feelings all within the same paragraph. Additionally, the story seemed to have been told in a fortune-teller kind of way; not only do we hear the story as it happened—as it was witnessed—but we also learn of what becomes of everyone years in the future. This definitely pushed the traditional fly-on-the-wall narration, but, somehow, it worked, and a masterpiece was born through unorthodox methods.
August 18, 2009
I have been having a hard time trying to figure out how to sum this story up - so sorry if it comes out sounding a little disjointed.
Ana is coping with her husband, Esteban's unfaithfulness and the fact that he has moved out. Her 14-year-old daughter, Carmen, blames her for making her dad leave, when in reality - he is the one who moved out. Ana is trying to protect her daughter and her son, Diego, from their father's affair. When she sees the above ad, she decides that Carmen needs a traditional quinceañera - not so much for the tradition - but because she thinks it will help her and Carmen become close again.
Beatriz, Ana's niece, jumps in to help with the planning - even designing the dresses that Carmen and the damas will wear. She is living with Ana and her kids as her own father is traveling for business and her mother is in a mental hospital - a fact that Beatriz is having to come to terms with on her own.
Ana's son seems to be the calm, rational one when he is really as torn up as Carmen about his dad's leaving but feels his mom needs their support - especially after he starts hearing rumors about what his dad has done.
So, as you can see, this is a multi-layered story with Beatriz and her mom; Ana and her daughter, Carmen; and Ana herself - and the decisions she needs to make about her future with or without Esteban.
My thoughts: To be honest, I almost gave up on this book in the beginning. It had some Spanish phrases in it and I wondered how much of the meaning I was losing. But after reading a review that said the you could get enough of the gist of the Spanish phrases without knowing Spanish and still understand the book, I kept going. I am glad that I did.
I really enjoyed Damas, Dramas, and Ana Ruiz as it portrayed not just one strong woman - Ana, but a strong 'young' woman - Beatriz, and a girl becoming a woman - Carmen. I also have a daughter turning 15 in 2 1/2 weeks so can kind of see the emotions that Carmen was experiencing - and definitely get to see the drama! (a quinceañera is a celebration for a young woman when they turn 15)
Ana is coping with her husband, Esteban's unfaithfulness and the fact that he has moved out. Her 14-year-old daughter, Carmen, blames her for making her dad leave, when in reality - he is the one who moved out. Ana is trying to protect her daughter and her son, Diego, from their father's affair. When she sees the above ad, she decides that Carmen needs a traditional quinceañera - not so much for the tradition - but because she thinks it will help her and Carmen become close again.
Beatriz, Ana's niece, jumps in to help with the planning - even designing the dresses that Carmen and the damas will wear. She is living with Ana and her kids as her own father is traveling for business and her mother is in a mental hospital - a fact that Beatriz is having to come to terms with on her own.
Ana's son seems to be the calm, rational one when he is really as torn up as Carmen about his dad's leaving but feels his mom needs their support - especially after he starts hearing rumors about what his dad has done.
So, as you can see, this is a multi-layered story with Beatriz and her mom; Ana and her daughter, Carmen; and Ana herself - and the decisions she needs to make about her future with or without Esteban.
My thoughts: To be honest, I almost gave up on this book in the beginning. It had some Spanish phrases in it and I wondered how much of the meaning I was losing. But after reading a review that said the you could get enough of the gist of the Spanish phrases without knowing Spanish and still understand the book, I kept going. I am glad that I did.
I really enjoyed Damas, Dramas, and Ana Ruiz as it portrayed not just one strong woman - Ana, but a strong 'young' woman - Beatriz, and a girl becoming a woman - Carmen. I also have a daughter turning 15 in 2 1/2 weeks so can kind of see the emotions that Carmen was experiencing - and definitely get to see the drama! (a quinceañera is a celebration for a young woman when they turn 15)
August 10, 2009
Synopsis:
At the start of Damas, Dramas and Ana Ruiz, we meet fourteen year old Carmen and her young mother Ana Ruiz. Ana struggles to handle her recent separation from her husband, the demands of her work, and her daughter Carmen's increasing volatility. Carmen blames her mother for her parents' separation and doesn't hesitate to tell her so. Ana suggests the quinceanera as a way to breach the growing divide, but Carmen doesn't seem interested in the quinceanera and takes every opportunity to exclude her mother. It is fortunate that Ana's niece Bianca steps up to act as peacekeeper and party planner. Carmen's older brother Diego, also plays a big role keeping the peace as he comes to terms with his father's absence.
The planning and the quinceanera serve as a backdrop to the ongoing family drama of Ana and her husband Esteban, their children Carmen and Diego, the lovely Bianca, and the rest of their family.
Review:
Before I started Damas, Dramas and Ana Ruiz, I had suspected that the book would spend much of its time with teenagers and their concerns. It was a delightful surprise to find that the novel followed the mother Ana Ruiz and not the daughter Carmen.
Belinda Acosta's writing is funny, heartwarming and touching at the same time. The characters are carefully and sympathetically drawn - you can't help but care for each of them. I particularly enjoyed reading about the close friendship between Ana Ruiz and her childhood friend, Bianca and her love for her family, Diego and his kindness towards his mother.
Belinda Acosta does a wonderful job giving you each person's story and hinting at how things work out for them in the future. The book was beautifully done - and I am so looking forward to the next in the series.
Note: There are a few Spanish phrases in the novel. I had a few semesters of Spanish close to twenty years ago and recall very little, but you don't need any knowledge of Spanish to understand the few phrases sprinkled in the book. You can make out the expressions from their context in the book. Enjoy!
At the start of Damas, Dramas and Ana Ruiz, we meet fourteen year old Carmen and her young mother Ana Ruiz. Ana struggles to handle her recent separation from her husband, the demands of her work, and her daughter Carmen's increasing volatility. Carmen blames her mother for her parents' separation and doesn't hesitate to tell her so. Ana suggests the quinceanera as a way to breach the growing divide, but Carmen doesn't seem interested in the quinceanera and takes every opportunity to exclude her mother. It is fortunate that Ana's niece Bianca steps up to act as peacekeeper and party planner. Carmen's older brother Diego, also plays a big role keeping the peace as he comes to terms with his father's absence.
The planning and the quinceanera serve as a backdrop to the ongoing family drama of Ana and her husband Esteban, their children Carmen and Diego, the lovely Bianca, and the rest of their family.
Review:
Before I started Damas, Dramas and Ana Ruiz, I had suspected that the book would spend much of its time with teenagers and their concerns. It was a delightful surprise to find that the novel followed the mother Ana Ruiz and not the daughter Carmen.
Belinda Acosta's writing is funny, heartwarming and touching at the same time. The characters are carefully and sympathetically drawn - you can't help but care for each of them. I particularly enjoyed reading about the close friendship between Ana Ruiz and her childhood friend, Bianca and her love for her family, Diego and his kindness towards his mother.
Belinda Acosta does a wonderful job giving you each person's story and hinting at how things work out for them in the future. The book was beautifully done - and I am so looking forward to the next in the series.
Note: There are a few Spanish phrases in the novel. I had a few semesters of Spanish close to twenty years ago and recall very little, but you don't need any knowledge of Spanish to understand the few phrases sprinkled in the book. You can make out the expressions from their context in the book. Enjoy!
June 6, 2015
4.5 ... Wow, very touching ending for several of the characters. When I started I just was thinking fun, light reading about teen drama, mother-daughter drama related to Quinces (or Sweet 16, Bat Mitzvahs, weddings, etc.). It was that and so much more. There was family drama husband-wife issues (separation, mental health, aging/growing/changing for different couples); mother-daughter; father-daughter; mother-oldest child/son; brother-sister (teens & adults); close cousins; best friends & compadres/comadres; co-workers; friends; new relationships...you name it. And the Spanglish throughout was an extra bonus! (But pretty elementary/slang Spanish so PLEASE don't let that turn anyone off from reading it.)
Also, so many times I thought different scenarios/relationships were going to go (or being lead to) the typical fake-out but happily-ever-after endings some books, especially romance novels tend to end. You may get a sense how some may go but probably won't figure out most of the details for them and definitely not for all the situations. Don't wanna give spoilers but glad it wasn't a happily-after-ever ending (in the regular sense), but as in shit happens, we get over it or, at least deal with it, and we all handle it in our own ways and hopefully grow from it as well.
I think it will be good reading for various people (for various reasons) and Bood Clubs (with the bonus of Questions for thought in both English and Spanish at the end). With being a woman, daughter, mother (to a daughter), sister (to brothers), cousing, ex-wife, ex-gf, BFF, co-worker, mentee & mentor (at times), it hit home and was touching in so many of the scenarios in the book. Although I listened to several books this week on CD & MP3, I'm glad my reading time was limited and that it was the only book I sat and read all week and really savored (and it's been awhile I have done that, for it's plus & minues, I've been book cramming & obsessing this year).
I look forward to more in this series and from this author.
Also, so many times I thought different scenarios/relationships were going to go (or being lead to) the typical fake-out but happily-ever-after endings some books, especially romance novels tend to end. You may get a sense how some may go but probably won't figure out most of the details for them and definitely not for all the situations. Don't wanna give spoilers but glad it wasn't a happily-after-ever ending (in the regular sense), but as in shit happens, we get over it or, at least deal with it, and we all handle it in our own ways and hopefully grow from it as well.
I think it will be good reading for various people (for various reasons) and Bood Clubs (with the bonus of Questions for thought in both English and Spanish at the end). With being a woman, daughter, mother (to a daughter), sister (to brothers), cousing, ex-wife, ex-gf, BFF, co-worker, mentee & mentor (at times), it hit home and was touching in so many of the scenarios in the book. Although I listened to several books this week on CD & MP3, I'm glad my reading time was limited and that it was the only book I sat and read all week and really savored (and it's been awhile I have done that, for it's plus & minues, I've been book cramming & obsessing this year).
I look forward to more in this series and from this author.
August 13, 2009
Ana Ruiz has two beautiful children, Diego and Carmen. In addition, Ana used to be married to a wonderful husband…that all changed, when he slept with another woman and moved out to by with her.
Ana has enough respect for her husband t not diss her husband in front of her children. Unfortunately all this has caused is confusion and anger, especially for Carmen. She can’t understand why her Apa “father” left her and won’t come back. Carmen blames her mother, so much that she can’t stand to be around her. Ana understands how much Carmen is hurting and wants to take her mind off her father. Ana wants to throw a quinceanera, this is sort of like a coming out party to introduce young girls as ladies now…like they do in the South. How much longer will Ana be able to battle Carmen before she gives in and tells her the truth?
What a fun, quirky, read Damas, Dramas, and Ana Ruiz turned out to be. It has the right amount of everything in it to give it that special kick…like your favorite kind of salsa. This book has great characters, a good story line, and an author who knows her stuff! Damas, Dramas, and Ana Ruiz is the first book in the Quinceanera Club series. The characters spoke a lot of Spanish in the book. At first I thought I don’t know how well I like this, even though I knew this is what made the book. Pretty quickly I was able to identify what the characters were saying. I even found myself starting to speak like them. I read this book in a many of a few hours, it was that good. Don’t take my word for it though. Check it out for yourself.
Ana has enough respect for her husband t not diss her husband in front of her children. Unfortunately all this has caused is confusion and anger, especially for Carmen. She can’t understand why her Apa “father” left her and won’t come back. Carmen blames her mother, so much that she can’t stand to be around her. Ana understands how much Carmen is hurting and wants to take her mind off her father. Ana wants to throw a quinceanera, this is sort of like a coming out party to introduce young girls as ladies now…like they do in the South. How much longer will Ana be able to battle Carmen before she gives in and tells her the truth?
What a fun, quirky, read Damas, Dramas, and Ana Ruiz turned out to be. It has the right amount of everything in it to give it that special kick…like your favorite kind of salsa. This book has great characters, a good story line, and an author who knows her stuff! Damas, Dramas, and Ana Ruiz is the first book in the Quinceanera Club series. The characters spoke a lot of Spanish in the book. At first I thought I don’t know how well I like this, even though I knew this is what made the book. Pretty quickly I was able to identify what the characters were saying. I even found myself starting to speak like them. I read this book in a many of a few hours, it was that good. Don’t take my word for it though. Check it out for yourself.
August 1, 2009
"Damas, Dramas, and Ana Ruiz" is an insightful, touching, and sympathetically humorous novel. I loved all of the characters, which were complex and acted in realistic and understandable ways. The problems they faced were also realistically complex. The world-building was nice, and the pacing was very good.
The story is written with Spanish words and short Spanish phrases mixed in with the English. It helps if you know some Spanish, but the meaning was often clearly implied by the context or was made clear in the next sentence. Don't let the Spanish hold you back from reading the novel.
Occasionally, mild cuss words were used, and there were a few instances of swearing. There were some sexy descriptions and lustful thoughts, but no sex. (Well, technically, there was, but it's implied rather than explicit.) Many of the characters were Catholic to various degrees, but faith played little role in the story.
If any cussing, swearing, etc., bothers you, then you'll probably not enjoy this book. If you want every female main character who encounters a gorgeous and willing man to jump in bed with him, then you probably won't enjoy this book. The characters in this novel have their own beliefs and way of doing things; they don't act in a stereotypical fashion. I'd highly recommend this well-written, fairly clean read to anyone who thinks it sounds interesting.
The story is written with Spanish words and short Spanish phrases mixed in with the English. It helps if you know some Spanish, but the meaning was often clearly implied by the context or was made clear in the next sentence. Don't let the Spanish hold you back from reading the novel.
Occasionally, mild cuss words were used, and there were a few instances of swearing. There were some sexy descriptions and lustful thoughts, but no sex. (Well, technically, there was, but it's implied rather than explicit.) Many of the characters were Catholic to various degrees, but faith played little role in the story.
If any cussing, swearing, etc., bothers you, then you'll probably not enjoy this book. If you want every female main character who encounters a gorgeous and willing man to jump in bed with him, then you probably won't enjoy this book. The characters in this novel have their own beliefs and way of doing things; they don't act in a stereotypical fashion. I'd highly recommend this well-written, fairly clean read to anyone who thinks it sounds interesting.
August 25, 2009
Despite some excellent insights into the psyches of her characters, this book never really took off for me. As a person who took French in high school and college, I found the frequent use of Spanish (and sometimes Spanglish) distracting at best and irritating at worst as it kept wrecking the flow of the narrative for me. I did think the author captured some of the underlying emotions quite well (the teen-aged hostility of Carmen, the quiet uncertainty of older brother Diego, the truly tormented reality of cousin Bianca), in the end I just didn't find myself emotionally invested in the two main characters (Ana and Carmen). Ana's abortive crush on a visiting artist at her university made little sense to me in the context of her ongoing emotional feelings for husband despite his infidelity.
In the end, I think there was just too much going on in this novel for any of the myriad plot-lines to be satifactorily explored. I also found myself quite put off by the onmicient third-person narration that dropped previews of the future into the story as if to constantly re-assure the reader that everything will be OK. This was a decent read, but there are better books out there that explore mother-daughter relationships in a deeper, more meaningful way.
In the end, I think there was just too much going on in this novel for any of the myriad plot-lines to be satifactorily explored. I also found myself quite put off by the onmicient third-person narration that dropped previews of the future into the story as if to constantly re-assure the reader that everything will be OK. This was a decent read, but there are better books out there that explore mother-daughter relationships in a deeper, more meaningful way.
September 4, 2009
Damas, Dramas, and Ana Ruiz is, at its core, a story about a mother and daughter rediscovering their way back to each other. Ana Ruiz is trying to hold it together, to keep things as normal as possible for Diego and Carmen. But Carmen's not playing ball, and is downright witchy to her mom. Boy, if I talked to my mom like Carmen does here, I probably wouldn't be here blogging... Ok, make that DEFINITELY wouldn't be here blogging...
Belinda Acosta has created very real characters in this book, from antagonistic Carmen to Diego's attempts to be the man of the house. And Ana Ruiz. What a complex woman she is--so strong at the core, yet so conflicted between trying to keep doing what's best for her children, and what's good for her. Pulled into different directions by those around her, she still manages to blaze her own trail.
LOVED it. Couldn't put it down, I even guessed at what all the Spanish words meant because I didn't want to put the book down to go look the words up--that would've interrupted my reading time!
Belinda Acosta has created very real characters in this book, from antagonistic Carmen to Diego's attempts to be the man of the house. And Ana Ruiz. What a complex woman she is--so strong at the core, yet so conflicted between trying to keep doing what's best for her children, and what's good for her. Pulled into different directions by those around her, she still manages to blaze her own trail.
LOVED it. Couldn't put it down, I even guessed at what all the Spanish words meant because I didn't want to put the book down to go look the words up--that would've interrupted my reading time!
August 11, 2009
Ana and her husband have separated, leaving Ana to raise their two children. Their daughter Carmen seems to think that everything that is wrong with her life, is her mother's fault. Ana desperately craves a better relationship with her daughter and tries everything to get through to her. Ana decides to throw Carmen a quinceanera party and together they learn that nothing is handed to you, you must work to get what you want.
This book is perfect for anyone who has worked hard to make a relationship better. The characters were easy to relate to and there were several laugh out loud moments. A heartwarming read.
This book is perfect for anyone who has worked hard to make a relationship better. The characters were easy to relate to and there were several laugh out loud moments. A heartwarming read.
August 24, 2009
It's all about mothers and daughters in Acosta's debut novel. Misunderstandings, harsh words, and mega drama are on tap here, but in the end it is all about the LOVE. This book was funny without being corny, sexy without being raunchy. Great suggestions for music, food, art and even unique names. A very pleasant surprise, read it in five days, story moved swift. As a mom of a two teens, there was one unexpected story line that broke me down to tears, you just have to read the book to see what I mean. Great book!
November 6, 2009
Touching story between a teenage daughter and her mother. I love the story, however, I had difficulty with all the Spanglish that was used. Very distracting and not really necessary. I did enjoy how the author wraps up some of the story lines by giving you some insight in what happens to them in the future.
March 23, 2010
I read an unedited version that has a lot of typos and errors with the Spanish translation and slangs but I enjoyed the overall flow and context of the story. Being from San Antonio I identified with the main characters morals and traditions, but still wished she would do something sooner.
August 9, 2009
Review will be posted on my blog http://molcotw.blogspot.com on Tuesday, Aug. 11. Be sure to check it out! :)
August 28, 2009
Before summer ends, get thee to a bookstore and get this book. It's touching, hilarious and stays with you after "the end."
April 5, 2010
I feel like I have to explain this one since the cover looks likes total trash-- It's actually a really well written but completely entertaining book about being Chicana in Texas...
May 5, 2010
I was trying to have Araceli read it with me, but she didn't. I really liked it.
July 6, 2010
First in a new series--this is bitter-sweet, funny, fast-paced and a good summer novel.
June 13, 2017
Acosta ties together lives; formatting each one to clarify and contrast the whirlwinds created by our lives through intention, omission, and community.
November 10, 2025
3.5 better than average.
I liked the insightful interiority of the characters and the multi-layered story. I can understand Spanglish, so this was not a problem for me, but it might be for others. The area I wanted more of, as a reader, was the emotional connection with the reader. I wanted to care enough that I wouldn't put the book down. The 3rd POV didn't help connect me.
I liked the insightful interiority of the characters and the multi-layered story. I can understand Spanglish, so this was not a problem for me, but it might be for others. The area I wanted more of, as a reader, was the emotional connection with the reader. I wanted to care enough that I wouldn't put the book down. The 3rd POV didn't help connect me.
October 31, 2025
A story of a family that changes, explores and grows.
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