Customer Reviews

South Beach Chicas Catch Their Man

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
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SOUTH BEACH CHICAS CATCH THEIR MAN by Caridad Pinerio
February 9, 2008

Rating: 3/5 Stars


SOUTH BEACH CHICAS CATCH THEIR MAN is a beach read with some strong female characters, but not a very solid story structure to warrant this book more than three stars. The book continues the story of characters that appeared in Pinerio's previous novel, and those who had read that first book may want to read this second one. I have to say, however, that while parts of the book did keep my attention, I felt that the book was uneven and that a big chunk of it could have been given less attention.

The main character is Sylvia Amenabar, who is currently a writer for a social-events column, and has shown interest in one Carlos Ramirez, a cop that took a bullet for her because of a piece of journalism she had gotten involved in. Sylvia is feeling some guilt over his injury, and she's also not sure she wants to be in a committed relationship with Carlos. She is reminded of her own parents, and how her mother Virginia has never been happy, pining away for the one man that she loved, Sylvia's father, a man Sylvia does not want in her life.

The bulk of the plot has Sylvia investigating the case that Carlos has been working on, and it brings up some information that will anger a number of her friends. It's a touchy subject, but Sylvia wants to do a good job and prove that she is a serious journalist that can report on more than just the local celebrity scene.

The part of the story line that I found rather distracting was the subplot surrounding Sylvia's mother Virginia. While her story explained Sylvia's problems with commitment, I didn't really care to read about Virginia's problems, and wanted the book to focus entirely on Sylvia and her issues with Carlos, and the case that they found themselves involved in.

I am giving SOUTH BEACH CHICAS CATCH THEIR MAN three stars because it is a good beach read, but I think the book could have been much better if there had been less emphasis on Sylvia's mother.

Not only was the book amazing, but so was the service. Book came in perfect condition and in great time. I would definitely order from this seller again.

I'm so glad I got to write the follow-up to SEX AND THE SOUTH BEACH CHICAS, but not to worry if you haven't read the first one since this book stands alone. Here's some of the reviews that have come in for this book which was featured in RT Book Club, Latina Magazine and premiered on Romance Novel television (www.romancenovel.tv)

Chicklit RomanceWriters: 9/10. "With a little bit of mystery, a good dose of loving, and a lot of great girl talk, Piñeiro's South Beach Chicas Catch Their Man is a novel that all chick lit readers will want to add to their collection!"

Fresh Fiction: "It should be the dream of all women to have friends such as these characters. The relationships between the men and women of this story are passionate and solid. Caridad Piñeiro captures character qualities and weaves them into fresh fabric of paper print, page after wonderful page."

Harriet Klausner: "The second South Beach Chicas tale (see SEX AND THE SOUTH BEACH CHICAS) is a terrific South Florida investigative romantic suspense thriller. Sylvia is a superb protagonist as she distrusts Carlos although attracted to him; partly she believes deeply men leave as her father proved, but also thinks he is hiding the truth especially his role in a cop shooting. . . .Caridad Pineiro provides an entertaining chick lit investigative romance."

SingleTitles.com: "The stories of Caridad Pineiro always showcase her wide range of abilities. Whether the story is darkly intriguing and features one of her original paranormal beings or concerns topics faced by today's women, Ms. Pineiro deftly handles the subject and captivates readers with her storytelling ability. . . .SOUTH BEACH CHICAS CATCH THEIR MAN speaks to women everywhere with its powerful story about friendship, where emotion is sincerely portrayed by the unforgettable characters."

Romance Reviews Today: "SOUTH BEACH CHICAS CATCH THEIR MAN is chick lit with a healthy dollop of investigative mystery thrown in. These chicas are not simple girls, but well-educated professionals who see no need to humble themselves to anybody. Caridad Piñeiro brings the four friends to life drawing on her own experience as a transplanted Cubana, born in Havana, brought up in the USA. She is an attorney, and her experience brings a welcome touch of realism to her character, Tori. . . .Celebrate the end of summer with an armchair trip to South Beach, Miami, and play with the beautiful people on the beach. Oh, and don't forget the mojitos!"

FictionScribe.com: "Even though this was a sequel, I didn't feel particularly put off during reading it because of that. I, of course, now want to read the first one, but I don't feel it's a necessity to do so to enjoy this book. I enjoyed this book a lot not only because . . .it showed five (watch out for Sylvia's mum!) successful women who built it all themselves and are now enjoying the best out of life. Caridad does well not only exploring the relationships of younger women but also in exploring the relationships of the forty-somethings who society sometimes forgets about in the romantic realm. This book is perfect for a bit of light (and hot!) reading for the last days you can manage to get on the beach this season or during your candlelit baths."

Sylvia Amenabar had the perfect single life. Mojitas and best friends who were also single Life was good. That is till several months ago when her three best started hooking up with sexy, hot men who seemed to know just what they each needed. Only problem is that Sylvia does not handle change well. As well she has some serious commitment issues thanks to being abandoned by her father.

Carlos Ramirez took a bullet for Sylvia. He is sexy, sweet and knows just what Sylvia needs. Getting Sylvia to realize it is the only problem. He just has to get her to realize just how good he is for her.

South Beach Chicas Catch Their Man was fantastic. I had a smile the whole time I was reading. The supporting characters were drawn in wonderful detail and it seemed like visiting with friends and family. The sub-story of Sylvia's parents was drawn with humor and tact. Both Sylvia and Carlos are dealing with life and love in their own ways, ways that make South Beach Chicas Catch Their Man a wonderful read, a read that I Joyfully Recommend.

Barb
Reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed