Tell It to Me Singing: A Novel BY Tita Ramirez

In this tender and intricately woven debut novel, "Tell It to Me Singing," Monica Campo's world is upended when her mother reveals a shocking secret just moments before undergoing emergency heart surgery. Pregnant with her first child, Monica learns that her father is not the man who raised her—a revelation that casts doubt and confusion over her entire identity.

As Monica grapples with her mother's confession and subsequent delusional episodes post-surgery, she finds herself questioning the truth amidst the backdrop of her mother's nightly telenovela-inspired dramas. Desperate for clarity, Monica seeks solace in her past, particularly in reconnecting with Manny, her former boyfriend of five years. This decision forces her to confront the implications for her current relationship with her fiancé and impending parenthood.

Monica's quest for truth leads her on a journey through the complexities of her family's history, from their arrival in Miami during the Mariel boatlift to the clandestine struggles against Castro's regime in 1970s Cuba. As she unravels these layers of her past, Monica discovers profound insights into belonging, heritage, and the construction of personal identity.

"Tell It to Me Singing" is not only a tale of familial secrets and revelations but also a poignant exploration of the ties that bind us and the places we call home. From Miami to Cuba to the jungles of Costa Rica, the novel navigates themes of love, loyalty, and the enduring quest for self-understanding. It's a narrative that resonates with readers as it delves deep into the heart of one woman's journey to reconcile her past and embrace her future.

With its richly drawn characters and evocative settings, "Tell It to Me Singing" promises an emotional and enlightening exploration of the human spirit's resilience and the profound impact of uncovering long-buried truths.