The Marquez Family Holidays

Valentine’s Day Isn’t Just Hearts is a heartfelt middle-grade/YA novel that explores the many forms love can take beyond romance, through the experiences of the Marquez family living in Redlands, California. Set during the week leading up to Valentine’s Day, the story follows a blended family as each member quietly struggles with their own understanding of love, identity, and belonging.

Anthony Marquez, a devoted father, works hard to keep his family grounded while carrying the weight of past mistakes and the responsibility of guiding his children toward a better future. His partner, Christina, brings warmth, patience, and emotional wisdom to the household, often encouraging conversations that help the family face difficult truths instead of avoiding them. Together, they try to create a home where love is shown through actions, honesty, and consistency, not perfection.

Sixteen-year-old Dominick wrestles with pressure, expectations, and emotions he doesn’t fully understand. As Valentine’s Day approaches, he feels torn between wanting independence and needing reassurance, especially as feelings for someone at school challenge his sense of control. His close friendship with Paul offers both humor and grounding, reminding Dominick that loyalty and trust are also forms of love.

Twelve-year-old Josiah views Valentine’s Day with skepticism. Observing the drama and embarrassment at school, he questions why emotions are treated as weaknesses. Through helping a friend and reflecting on his own family, Josiah begins to realize that honesty and empathy can be acts of courage.

Ten-year-old Alana sees Valentine’s Day differently than everyone else. Creative, thoughtful, and observant, she creates a “love map” that breaks love into actions, kindness, self-respect, service, and care for others. Her simple but powerful perspective becomes a quiet guide for the entire family.