Big Girls Don't Cry

Big Girls Don't Cry
Brenda Novak

Thanks to a devastating revelation about her husband, Reenie Holbrook's once-perfect marriage is over.For eleven years she had the life she wanted–and now it's gone. Reenie decides that the first step in recovering from her ordeal is to find work; after all, she has three young children to support. She's thrilled when she lands a job at Dundee High teaching history–until Isaac Russell, the man who triggered the unraveling of her marriage, accepts a temporary position teaching science. Then she's tempted to quit.Reenie doesn't care if the whole town admires Isaac…and she won't admit that, secretly, she admires him, too. She doesn't want to see him or his sister in "her" town. But a friendship with the most unlikely woman leads to a relationship with the most unlikely man….

Praise for Brenda Novak

“Novak perfectly captures the feel of small-town life, and her powerful story of two lonely, fragile people who find another chance at love is a sweetly satisfying and richly rewarding romance.”

—Booklist on Stranger in Town

“This story should appeal to readers who like their romances with a sophisticated touch.”

—Library Journal on Snow Baby

“A one-sitting read! Kudos to Brenda Novak for an insightful and emotional story that tore at my heartstrings.”

—The Best Reviews on A Baby of Her Own

“Once again, Brenda Novak delivers a stunningly magical performance.”

—Wordweaving on A Family of Her Own

“Novak’s story is richly dramatic, with a stark setting that distinguishes it nicely from the lusher world of other romances.”

—Publishers Weekly on Taking the Heat

“Readers will be quickly drawn in to this well-written, multi-faceted story that is an engrossing, compelling read.”

—Library Journal on Taking the Heat

“Cold Feet left me breathless. Any book by Brenda Novak is a must-buy for me.”

—Reader to Reader Reviews

“Brenda Novak spins a taut, spine-tingling story with imagery so vivid it leaves you breathless.”

—New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan on Every Waking Moment (HQN Books)

Dear Reader,

Little did I know when I set out to write this story that I was plunging myself into such a complex situation. But then, I must like getting in over my head. Those of you who’ve read my other stories can probably attest to the fact that they occasionally stretch the boundaries of series romance. Anyway, poor Reenie has her hands full in this book—but don’t worry, I manage to make it up to her in the end. Not everyone deserves a guy like Isaac.

Of all the books I’ve written, I have to admit that I’m probably most curious about reader response to this one. I wonder what people will think of Keith—crucify him or forgive him? And Elizabeth—does she deserve her own happily ever after? Then there’s the old conflict between Gabe and the half sister he never knew….

I always enjoy returning to Dundee. I hope this has become a comfortable place for you, too…a bit like returning home.

If you have access to a computer, don’t forget to visit my Web site at www.brendanovak.com and enter my Contest Bonanza, where you can win one of several fabulous prizes, including autographed books, See’s Candies, Waldenbooks gift certificates, dinners at Chili’s Bar & Grill—and a $500 shopping spree at the store of winner’s choice! Also, I love to hear from readers, so feel free to e-mail me from my Web site or write to me at P.O. Box 3781, Citrus Heights, CA 95611.

Until next time,

Brenda Novak

Big Girls Don’t Cry

Brenda Novak

To my editor, Paula Eykelhof, who has been instrumental

in making the Harlequin Superromance line what it is today.

I’m sure I speak for all the authors you’ve worked with over

the years when I thank you for your willingness to take a

few calculated risks, for your commitment to good quality

writing and meaningful stories, and for being such a pleasure

to know. On a more personal note, I can’t tell you how

much I appreciate the confidence you’ve had in me and the

support you’ve given me. We’ve already done nineteen books

together, but I’m looking forward to at least twenty more!

CONTENTS

CHAPTER ONE

CHAPTER TWO

CHAPTER THREE

CHAPTER FOUR

CHAPTER FIVE

CHAPTER SIX

CHAPTER SEVEN

CHAPTER EIGHT

CHAPTER NINE

CHAPTER TEN

CHAPTER ELEVEN