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Small Town Trouble #2
In a Pickle
After years of crying in her sweet tea, Regina finally has her life in order. She has a great job, wonderful friends, and a successful fiancé. But when the town council decides to do something special for this year’s Pickle Festival, life gets a little briny. As a former Pickle Queen, Regina has a chance to win fifty thousand dollars if she participates in a three-day photo scavenger hunt, but she must compete with her former Pickle King, Clint. He’s the guy who ripped her heart out when he left to play professional baseball and never looked back.
Clint Sorrow is as famous for starting bar fights as he is for stealing bases. Years ago, he vowed to never step foot back in Smithville, but when he finds out there’s a chance his baseball contract may not be renewed, he jumps at the opportunity to show his team he’s not a liability. As a bonus, he’ll get to spend time with Regina, the girl he left… and never stopped loving.
When Clint gets wind of Regina’s engagement, he decides he must stop it before she does something they’ll both regret. But Clint has a secret that will not only destroy her plans but may cause him to be benched for life.
Clint Sorrow is as famous for starting bar fights as he is for stealing bases. Years ago, he vowed to never step foot back in Smithville, but when he finds out there’s a chance his baseball contract may not be renewed, he jumps at the opportunity to show his team he’s not a liability. As a bonus, he’ll get to spend time with Regina, the girl he left… and never stopped loving.
When Clint gets wind of Regina’s engagement, he decides he must stop it before she does something they’ll both regret. But Clint has a secret that will not only destroy her plans but may cause him to be benched for life.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 9, 2020
92 people are currently reading
189 people want to read
About the author
Cindy Dorminy
19 books166 followersI'm just a girl born in a two traffic light town, raised in the burbs, and now lives in Music City, USA. I love reading and writing YA and adult sweet romances about love when it's least expected.
My must haves when writing:
Diet Coke
Pretzels (or Gold Fish)
Netflix
My sweet dachshund
I recently built a she-shed and I'm in love with it!!! It's all mine - no music instruments allowed (ahem, hubby).
Sign up for my newsletter to hear about my latest bookish news. (I promise I won't fill your inbox with tons of mail).
http://www.cindydwrites.com
My must haves when writing:
Diet Coke
Pretzels (or Gold Fish)
Netflix
My sweet dachshund
I recently built a she-shed and I'm in love with it!!! It's all mine - no music instruments allowed (ahem, hubby).
Sign up for my newsletter to hear about my latest bookish news. (I promise I won't fill your inbox with tons of mail).
http://www.cindydwrites.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
May 16, 2024
This is a Southern Small Town Romance, and this is the second book in the Small Town Trouble series. I have read the first book in this series, but I do think you should read the first book before picking up this book. Almost all the characters come from the first book, and this book feeds off the other book. I love that they worked some of the super funny parts of the first book in this book like the bed. I love the small town feel of this book, and I love all the Southern saying that is used in this book. This book makes me remember my childhood, and what it was like living in a Southern Small Town. I remembering telling my friend I bet if I poo here everyone including my Grandmother would know before I got home, and this book bring that feeling to light. I love this book so much. The characters in this book was so great. I hope another book comes out in this book series. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
July 24, 2020
Oh my goodness! Cindy Dorminy really grabbed my heart from the very first page and never let it go! She had my emotions all over the place. Once I started reading IN A PICKLE it was very hard to stop! The twists and turns made it impossible to put down, as I had to know what was going to happen to Regina and Clint. Cindy Dorminy is an amazing writer. She writes with so much heart and tenderness! What an awesome story. All of Cindy’s characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride. As you are reading, you will find yourself cheering for all of them, praying they can work it out and be happy once again.
Once you start reading IN A PICKLE it will be very hard to put down! Cindy sure knows how to put a new twist on Second Chance Love. IN A PICKLE is filled with second chances, love, as well as hurt and anger. It is without a doubt one of the funnest books I’ve read in 2020 so far. I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters. Cindy Dorminy is such a wonderful and heart tugging author and she had me laughing and crying on the very same page. She literally had me holding my breath and choking on a sob while I finished reading. I can’t wait to read more of her stories!
IN A PICKLE is filled with relatable and very likable people. Regina has had her share of heartache. Neither Clint or Regina is looking for any kind of relationship, at first, but it seems that’s all they can think about. IN A PICKLE is the perfect way to spend the afternoon, on your couch with your favorite beverage. Soon, you will be falling in love with all the people in this heart warming and sweet story. The Scavenger hunt was really fun and put the two of them in hysterical situations. Will Regina and Clint ever be able to heal their broken hearts and move on from their painful pasts? Read this wonderful contemporary to find out! I can’t wait to read more by this sweet author!
Once you start reading IN A PICKLE it will be very hard to put down! Cindy sure knows how to put a new twist on Second Chance Love. IN A PICKLE is filled with second chances, love, as well as hurt and anger. It is without a doubt one of the funnest books I’ve read in 2020 so far. I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters. Cindy Dorminy is such a wonderful and heart tugging author and she had me laughing and crying on the very same page. She literally had me holding my breath and choking on a sob while I finished reading. I can’t wait to read more of her stories!
IN A PICKLE is filled with relatable and very likable people. Regina has had her share of heartache. Neither Clint or Regina is looking for any kind of relationship, at first, but it seems that’s all they can think about. IN A PICKLE is the perfect way to spend the afternoon, on your couch with your favorite beverage. Soon, you will be falling in love with all the people in this heart warming and sweet story. The Scavenger hunt was really fun and put the two of them in hysterical situations. Will Regina and Clint ever be able to heal their broken hearts and move on from their painful pasts? Read this wonderful contemporary to find out! I can’t wait to read more by this sweet author!
June 7, 2020
Pucker up, fun romance lovers, Cindy Dorminy’s IN A PICKLE is the perfect blend of the salty and sweet, quirky and serious with a touch of fluff, and some eye rolling ‘ya gotta be kidding me,’ moments!
Admit it, nothing is better than a second chance romance, add a town full of well-meaning busybodies, a sassy heroine and the guy who left her behind to find fame and fortune on the baseball diamond. You will find yourself chuckling, because you know how this just has to turn out, and to be honest, it’s the journey that makes this a slice of sunshine on a gloomy day!
Cindy Dorminy knows how to create that special spark between two souls meant to be together and she dresses it up beautifully with witty dialogue, heartfelt moments, misunderstandings and a quirky contest that only a small town could pull off! A delightful read that went by too quickly for me, pretty sure I wanted Clint to suffer just a little bit more. ;) This one sparkles!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Cindy Dorminy! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Publisher: Red Adept Publishing, LLC (June 9, 2020)
Publication Date: June 9, 2020
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 247 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Admit it, nothing is better than a second chance romance, add a town full of well-meaning busybodies, a sassy heroine and the guy who left her behind to find fame and fortune on the baseball diamond. You will find yourself chuckling, because you know how this just has to turn out, and to be honest, it’s the journey that makes this a slice of sunshine on a gloomy day!
Cindy Dorminy knows how to create that special spark between two souls meant to be together and she dresses it up beautifully with witty dialogue, heartfelt moments, misunderstandings and a quirky contest that only a small town could pull off! A delightful read that went by too quickly for me, pretty sure I wanted Clint to suffer just a little bit more. ;) This one sparkles!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Cindy Dorminy! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Publisher: Red Adept Publishing, LLC (June 9, 2020)
Publication Date: June 9, 2020
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Print Length: 247 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
December 29, 2020
If you are in the mood for a light romance novel about second chances, then this might be the book you want to read. This book follows In A Jam but can be read by itself, you will just be able to catch up with the characters from the first book.
This story features Regina and Clint, childhood sweethearts, married in college, and then when he receives an offer to play baseball, he drops Regina like a hot potato. Fast forward approximately five years. Regina has met someone else, Clint's career is on the ropes, and neither really seems happy. Enter the Pickle Festival challenge for former Kings and Queens. If nothing else, this will take their mind off of their woes for a few days.
I thoroughly enjoyed In A Jam so was excited to read this next book and take a journey to Smithville and see what the gang was up to. I found lots of witty dialogue, including some that really made me laugh out loud (Lojack on an infant - trust me, the scene is funny!). There is the banter between Regina and Clint, it is almost like time has not passed by for them and their past relationship situation is nothing. There is quite a bit of miscommunication between the two but they do figure it out. There are even some parts of this book that left me wondering what Ken was really up to with Regina and thank goodness the truth (sort of) came out. I liked the strong family ties Clint has with his brothers which leaves Clint wanting more from life.
Next time you need a light fluffy romantic comedy, definitely give this book a try. We give it 5 paws up.
This story features Regina and Clint, childhood sweethearts, married in college, and then when he receives an offer to play baseball, he drops Regina like a hot potato. Fast forward approximately five years. Regina has met someone else, Clint's career is on the ropes, and neither really seems happy. Enter the Pickle Festival challenge for former Kings and Queens. If nothing else, this will take their mind off of their woes for a few days.
I thoroughly enjoyed In A Jam so was excited to read this next book and take a journey to Smithville and see what the gang was up to. I found lots of witty dialogue, including some that really made me laugh out loud (Lojack on an infant - trust me, the scene is funny!). There is the banter between Regina and Clint, it is almost like time has not passed by for them and their past relationship situation is nothing. There is quite a bit of miscommunication between the two but they do figure it out. There are even some parts of this book that left me wondering what Ken was really up to with Regina and thank goodness the truth (sort of) came out. I liked the strong family ties Clint has with his brothers which leaves Clint wanting more from life.
Next time you need a light fluffy romantic comedy, definitely give this book a try. We give it 5 paws up.
June 3, 2020
Every time I tell someone about a romance novel I think of my favorite Janet Evanovich quote.
“Romance novels are birthday cake and life is often peanut butter and jelly. I think everyone should have lots of delicious romance novels lying around for those times when the peanut butter of life gets stuck to the roof of your mouth.”
– Janet Evanovich
I don’t know about you but someone’s been putting the peanut butter on my life sandwich with an awful heavy hand lately. I have been in need of birthday cake.
As it turns out not only am I a decent baker but now I’ve taught the children and nightly dessert is pretty much a thing now. But as wonderful as a steady diet of chocolate chip cookies made with hard boiled eggs (it really is a thing and they are delicious!), molasses cookies, cakes, cobblers and ice cream sundays is, what me and my nutrition needed was a break from the news and some birthday cake for the soul.
The same small town I fell in love with while reading In A Jam is back. The residents are funny and sassy, the heroine is tiny while her man is huge and muscly. Old love rekindles and things get a bit steamy (but never in a raunchy way). Town gossips and meddlers do their thing and, spoiler alert, it has a happy ending. Which is good because it just wouldn’t be birthday cake without a happy ending, would it?
Would I recommended it? Who doesn’t need a bit of cake for the soul these days?
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I discovered this book because I’m a proud member of Rosie’s Book Review Team!
“Romance novels are birthday cake and life is often peanut butter and jelly. I think everyone should have lots of delicious romance novels lying around for those times when the peanut butter of life gets stuck to the roof of your mouth.”
– Janet Evanovich
I don’t know about you but someone’s been putting the peanut butter on my life sandwich with an awful heavy hand lately. I have been in need of birthday cake.
As it turns out not only am I a decent baker but now I’ve taught the children and nightly dessert is pretty much a thing now. But as wonderful as a steady diet of chocolate chip cookies made with hard boiled eggs (it really is a thing and they are delicious!), molasses cookies, cakes, cobblers and ice cream sundays is, what me and my nutrition needed was a break from the news and some birthday cake for the soul.
The same small town I fell in love with while reading In A Jam is back. The residents are funny and sassy, the heroine is tiny while her man is huge and muscly. Old love rekindles and things get a bit steamy (but never in a raunchy way). Town gossips and meddlers do their thing and, spoiler alert, it has a happy ending. Which is good because it just wouldn’t be birthday cake without a happy ending, would it?
Would I recommended it? Who doesn’t need a bit of cake for the soul these days?
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I discovered this book because I’m a proud member of Rosie’s Book Review Team!
May 28, 2020
I received a request from the author to receive a free copy of this in return for an honest review. In 2018, I received a similar request for "In a Jam", which I loved and gave 5 stars, so I was thrilled to do this again. I have to say this didn't disappoint. I loved the characters and the story and it was nice to get a little peek at what the characters from "In a Jam" were up too. I would highly recommend this cute story!!
March 24, 2021
Thank you NetGalley, Cindy Dorminy and Red Adept Publishing, LLC for the digital copy of In a Pickle.
This is my personal review.
A book that is set in a small town with wonderful people, a Pickle Festival, Clint and Regina who fell in love as teens and a chance as adults to reconnect to win a prize of $50,000 participating in a three-day photo scavenger hunt. This is a combination that makes for a great small town romance story.
This is a great story that will leave you smiling.
This is my personal review.
A book that is set in a small town with wonderful people, a Pickle Festival, Clint and Regina who fell in love as teens and a chance as adults to reconnect to win a prize of $50,000 participating in a three-day photo scavenger hunt. This is a combination that makes for a great small town romance story.
This is a great story that will leave you smiling.
January 14, 2023
In a Pickle delivers all the punch of a sour pickle, and yes, I’m talking about those puns! Loved the word play, it didn’t feel too over the top cheesy for me but also I love a punny good time (which this is). Also, this is Sweet Home Alabama and I was HERE FOR IT.
Now going into this I didn’t realize it was the second in a series but I definitely think these are really just books in a collection; you know, same town and lovable characters but you don’t need to read them all in order for things to make sense. Side note: the other books have punny names too🤗
People who don’t love religion in this books: our female MCs dad IS a preacher (pastor? Reverend? Shit, you’d think I’d know this just finishing it this morning. … her daddy is the one in charge, up front at the church). However, it’s not super religious. There’s some bible quotes here and there but honestly you can listen to it without latching onto any of those parts.
As I mentioned, I listened to this. I’m not sure why that’s not an available edition to select on here. 🤷🏻♀️ I found the book and narrator to be easy to listen/ follow. And, they selected a narrator who reads in a southern accent and it’s *chefs kiss* to that small town scene that’s being set. It’s Sweet Home Alabama , remember? Twang and all.
Here’s what you should keep in mind while I’m throwing all these SHA. comparisons out there- the guy Mel is engaged to is TEN THOUSAND times better than the dick head Regina finds herself engaged to. Regina's fiancee is going to really annoy you, especially if you're a small town person/understand a small town versus if you're a city person. I don't think you necessarily need to be small town or city to enjoy this book but if you know, you know.
Out of the characters, Regina actually ground my gears the most (second to Ken, but he wasn't really a fully developed character IMO). I liked Regina, I did- but she always jumps to the worse conclusion with Clint. And, I get it- he hurt her, but when she's still assuming the worst at 91% of the way through and didn't have half the attitude with her jack fiancee, you want to throw the audio book, you want to throw it hard. But you don't because it's attached to an iPhone, and that would be problematic.
This isn't to say that Clint's timing is all that stellar either, but he only lightly aggravated me.
This is a pretty light and easy listen, honestly. Pretty wholesome in the grand scheme of things. Fun with the scavenger hunt business. Some romance (which is where most of my annoyance stems from. Not the actual romance being there, it needs to be there. Just the way it was done.) I don't know if I would listen to it again, but if I ever come across it as a paperback, I'll definitely grab a copy because I can think of a few family members that would probably really enjoy this.
Now going into this I didn’t realize it was the second in a series but I definitely think these are really just books in a collection; you know, same town and lovable characters but you don’t need to read them all in order for things to make sense. Side note: the other books have punny names too🤗
People who don’t love religion in this books: our female MCs dad IS a preacher (pastor? Reverend? Shit, you’d think I’d know this just finishing it this morning. … her daddy is the one in charge, up front at the church). However, it’s not super religious. There’s some bible quotes here and there but honestly you can listen to it without latching onto any of those parts.
As I mentioned, I listened to this. I’m not sure why that’s not an available edition to select on here. 🤷🏻♀️ I found the book and narrator to be easy to listen/ follow. And, they selected a narrator who reads in a southern accent and it’s *chefs kiss* to that small town scene that’s being set. It’s Sweet Home Alabama , remember? Twang and all.
Here’s what you should keep in mind while I’m throwing all these SHA. comparisons out there- the guy Mel is engaged to is TEN THOUSAND times better than the dick head Regina finds herself engaged to. Regina's fiancee is going to really annoy you, especially if you're a small town person/understand a small town versus if you're a city person. I don't think you necessarily need to be small town or city to enjoy this book but if you know, you know.
Out of the characters, Regina actually ground my gears the most (second to Ken, but he wasn't really a fully developed character IMO). I liked Regina, I did- but she always jumps to the worse conclusion with Clint. And, I get it- he hurt her, but when she's still assuming the worst at 91% of the way through and didn't have half the attitude with her jack fiancee, you want to throw the audio book, you want to throw it hard. But you don't because it's attached to an iPhone, and that would be problematic.
This isn't to say that Clint's timing is all that stellar either, but he only lightly aggravated me.
This is a pretty light and easy listen, honestly. Pretty wholesome in the grand scheme of things. Fun with the scavenger hunt business. Some romance (which is where most of my annoyance stems from. Not the actual romance being there, it needs to be there. Just the way it was done.) I don't know if I would listen to it again, but if I ever come across it as a paperback, I'll definitely grab a copy because I can think of a few family members that would probably really enjoy this.
April 26, 2021
I liked this book a lot - but it wasn't true love for me. This is a second chance romance - and a second chance for Clint to find home. Clint and Regina got married in college so that Clint could have affordable housing. His baseball scholarship didn't cover room and board - and there was no way Clint could afford that. (Although - really - with a baseball career ahead of him - I would have thought he'd take out student loans? But maybe with no parents to co-sign that was an issue? I don't know). ANYWAY, when Clint got drafted into Major League Baseball after his junior year, he left his hometown and Regina in the dust. He didn't even say goodbye to Regina, just served her with divorce papers.
Money and the MLB lifestyle quickly went to Clint's head. Things haven't gone 100% well for him and he hasn't been home since. Regina's heart was broken - but she returned to her hometown, worked as a nurse and has dated and generally moved on. Now she is on the verge of marrying a living Ken doll. When Clint finds out - it coincides with his career circling the toilet. He also realizes he never filed the divorce papers - so he and Regina aren't really divorced. He returns to their hometown to tell her about it and see if he can find a way to rehab is public image.
I think we can all agree that Clint and Regina should not have gotten married when they did - they were definitely too young. But - I think the heartbreak was coming no matter what. I think Clint maybe knew himself well enough to know he wasn't going to stay true to Regina (he was right). I think the divorce was harder for Regina than just a breakup because of the faith and life commitment that marriage entails.
I liked watching Clint find his way back to his family and friends as the prodigal son of Smithville. I also thought he and Regina were really sweet together. So here's where the problem came around for me...
I recommend this for fans of small town romance - its also on the cleaner side of romance - so if that tickles your pickle ;) then this is a great read for you.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
Money and the MLB lifestyle quickly went to Clint's head. Things haven't gone 100% well for him and he hasn't been home since. Regina's heart was broken - but she returned to her hometown, worked as a nurse and has dated and generally moved on. Now she is on the verge of marrying a living Ken doll. When Clint finds out - it coincides with his career circling the toilet. He also realizes he never filed the divorce papers - so he and Regina aren't really divorced. He returns to their hometown to tell her about it and see if he can find a way to rehab is public image.
I think we can all agree that Clint and Regina should not have gotten married when they did - they were definitely too young. But - I think the heartbreak was coming no matter what. I think Clint maybe knew himself well enough to know he wasn't going to stay true to Regina (he was right). I think the divorce was harder for Regina than just a breakup because of the faith and life commitment that marriage entails.
I liked watching Clint find his way back to his family and friends as the prodigal son of Smithville. I also thought he and Regina were really sweet together. So here's where the problem came around for me...
I recommend this for fans of small town romance - its also on the cleaner side of romance - so if that tickles your pickle ;) then this is a great read for you.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
September 28, 2021
Wonderful, heartfelt romance
I'm not usually a fan of romance, but Cindy Dorminy writes fun, laugh-out-loud, unique plots and cool, relatable characters you can't help cheering and rooting for. You know there's a happy ending coming, but there's always a surprise at the end - no predictable endings here!
I'm not usually a fan of romance, but Cindy Dorminy writes fun, laugh-out-loud, unique plots and cool, relatable characters you can't help cheering and rooting for. You know there's a happy ending coming, but there's always a surprise at the end - no predictable endings here!
December 30, 2024
So much fun!
He rakes his teeth over his bottom lip then adds, “We are... my heart still thinks we’re married. We always will be. I love you, Regina.”
In a Pickle is a wonderful romantic comedy about missed chances and how to accept change. I wish there were more authors like Cindy Dorniny who wrote intelligent romance Highly Recommended 5/5
He rakes his teeth over his bottom lip then adds, “We are... my heart still thinks we’re married. We always will be. I love you, Regina.”
In a Pickle is a wonderful romantic comedy about missed chances and how to accept change. I wish there were more authors like Cindy Dorniny who wrote intelligent romance Highly Recommended 5/5
July 9, 2020
A second chance romance set in a small, quirky southern town against the backdrop of a pickle festival? Sign me up! This book tells the story of Regina who’s just accepted an engagement ring from her perfect-on-paper boyfriend when her first love (now a pro baseball player) blows into town and stirs up a lot of feelings she thought were long buried. To make matters worse, former Pickle Queen Regina is forced to team up with her King, Clint, for a photo scavenger hunt that means spending lots of quality (and fun!) time together. Sparks fly and well, you’ll have to read the book to find out if these two exes find their way back to each other, but I had a blast reading about Regina and Clint’s adventures in Smithville. IN A PICKLE is a very entertaining, swoony read that hit this romance lover’s sweet spot. I could totally see it as a Hallmark movie!
June 16, 2020
I enthusiastically requested the ARC of this book from Hidden Gems. Through this ARC service, I have become a fan of this author. Her books are fun and entertaining reads that I have enjoyed. This book is no different. Although you do not have to read the prior book (In a Jam), you might want to if you enjoyed this story!
This book brings us back to Smithville, where Regina who we met previously, is a nurse trying to move forward with her life. Her boyfriend proposes and she reluctantly accepts thinking that it might be the sensible choice for her future. When word reaches Clint, her high school/college sweetheart and ex-husband, he arrives in Smithville to both rehab his image and possibly halt the wedding! Clint is a major league baseball player whose hard-partying lifestyle has put him in the doghouse with his team owner and agent. They both want him to find his roots and polish his image.
They are brought together by the town’s Pickle festival, where they once held the title of King and Queen. As the lead up to the festival, they are to participate in a scavenger hunt to win prize money that Regina plans to use for her wedding. Although they have history, the contest is allowing them each to get what they want. Regina seems to quickly get over the fact that Clint left her and this town. Then they continue to keep secrets and have quite a few misunderstandings. Overall the book was a cute read, but some of the back and forth between them got to be a little much for me.
This book brings us back to Smithville, where Regina who we met previously, is a nurse trying to move forward with her life. Her boyfriend proposes and she reluctantly accepts thinking that it might be the sensible choice for her future. When word reaches Clint, her high school/college sweetheart and ex-husband, he arrives in Smithville to both rehab his image and possibly halt the wedding! Clint is a major league baseball player whose hard-partying lifestyle has put him in the doghouse with his team owner and agent. They both want him to find his roots and polish his image.
They are brought together by the town’s Pickle festival, where they once held the title of King and Queen. As the lead up to the festival, they are to participate in a scavenger hunt to win prize money that Regina plans to use for her wedding. Although they have history, the contest is allowing them each to get what they want. Regina seems to quickly get over the fact that Clint left her and this town. Then they continue to keep secrets and have quite a few misunderstandings. Overall the book was a cute read, but some of the back and forth between them got to be a little much for me.
June 12, 2020
I read In A Jam, so I was very happy to get to come back and see more of these characters in action. All of the same zany supporting cast reappears here, only this time one-time Mean Girl Regina becomes our leading lady. I just loved her snarky independence. Clint made me want to tear my hair out. There’s very little that I love more than to see a couple get a second chance at getting it right, but he was just so determined to shoot himself in the foot I wasn’t sure it was going to happen. There were so many times it felt like for every step of progress he made, he’d do something foolish that set him back two more. I was impressed with how vulnerable he was willing to get with Regina and his family, I just wish Clint had been a little bit better about having the conversations that mattered. I was in a constant state if anxiety over when the other shoe would drop and send this pair into yet another tailspin. The side plot involving Ken confused me, and I would have liked to see more of the resolution to that. It kind of faded out and I was left wondering “why?” In the end, the story kept me laughing and that was the one thing I really wanted from it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Hidden Gems Books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Hidden Gems Books.
June 1, 2020
This is the second or third book of Cindy Dorminy's that I've been asked to review in advance of publishing and once again, I was thrilled to take part. The characters from In A Jam make appearances which adds to the fun.
This time around, Regina and Clint are reunited by fate (or was it Andie's meddling? Or Clint's need to be tamed?) either way, Regina and Clint are reunited after Clint leaves town - and their marriage - some years before to play pro-baseball. He returns to town to help Regina win $50,000 towards her wedding with the live Ken doll. A few secrets are revealed along the way and lots of witty banter later, everything ends as it should - and leaves the reader feeling satisfied.
The only part of the book that didn't work for me was the Ken story line. I can see why Regina needed to be in a relationship but the whole story felt disjointed - the quick engagement, the weird behavior, etc. It felt like too many cliches built into one story - or that the story started one way and ended up going in another.
It didn't take away from any of the fun of the book and I recommend this as a feel-good read!
This time around, Regina and Clint are reunited by fate (or was it Andie's meddling? Or Clint's need to be tamed?) either way, Regina and Clint are reunited after Clint leaves town - and their marriage - some years before to play pro-baseball. He returns to town to help Regina win $50,000 towards her wedding with the live Ken doll. A few secrets are revealed along the way and lots of witty banter later, everything ends as it should - and leaves the reader feeling satisfied.
The only part of the book that didn't work for me was the Ken story line. I can see why Regina needed to be in a relationship but the whole story felt disjointed - the quick engagement, the weird behavior, etc. It felt like too many cliches built into one story - or that the story started one way and ended up going in another.
It didn't take away from any of the fun of the book and I recommend this as a feel-good read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2020
Warning! There are some light spoilers in here.
For me, this book was slightly better than average. To start, I hated that Regina was not smart enough to realize that something was super off about Ken and his marriage proposal. I also didn't like how quick she was to forgive Clint's numerous mistakes. I get that she was in love with him, but it seemed a little off to me. For example, I don't know any girl who would wait two days to talk to a guy after getting a response of "we'll discuss this tomorrow" over a big topic and then there being no conversation. Then, when they see each other two days later they don't even bring it up? On the flip side, I did like the town and the characters were fun. The book was also written pretty well, although there were a few times I had to backtrack and figure out who was talking. It was a decent read, but not a favorite.
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
For me, this book was slightly better than average. To start, I hated that Regina was not smart enough to realize that something was super off about Ken and his marriage proposal. I also didn't like how quick she was to forgive Clint's numerous mistakes. I get that she was in love with him, but it seemed a little off to me. For example, I don't know any girl who would wait two days to talk to a guy after getting a response of "we'll discuss this tomorrow" over a big topic and then there being no conversation. Then, when they see each other two days later they don't even bring it up? On the flip side, I did like the town and the characters were fun. The book was also written pretty well, although there were a few times I had to backtrack and figure out who was talking. It was a decent read, but not a favorite.
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
June 16, 2020
I really liked the premise of this book. Regina and Clint having to compete in a scavenger hunt for 50k while navigating the scars of their past and her recent engagement and having aspects of their old relationship throw some curveball into the mix.
I did feel however that everything was only surface level in this book. I didn't feel like I could conneect with the lead characters as their emotions or attitudes would flit quickly from one to the next even on topics that were pivotal in their story. I was hard to feel invested as hey would move past big issues so quickly.
I think this is a sweet story, but it wasn't for me.
I received a Hidden Gems ARC and am voluntarily leaving a honest review.
I did feel however that everything was only surface level in this book. I didn't feel like I could conneect with the lead characters as their emotions or attitudes would flit quickly from one to the next even on topics that were pivotal in their story. I was hard to feel invested as hey would move past big issues so quickly.
I think this is a sweet story, but it wasn't for me.
I received a Hidden Gems ARC and am voluntarily leaving a honest review.
June 9, 2020
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.In a Pickle by Cindy Dorminy is a lovely romantic comedy. I enjoyed reading this story immensely and love the crazy things on the Pickle Kings and Queens scavenger hunts.
Will Clint and Regina find their way back together?
Regina
Regina is one of our main characters. She is a nurse, and she loves her small-town life in Smithville. Regina has a huge heart and manages to not stay mad at her ex-husband for being an attention hog. She is terrific with Clint's twin three-year-old nephews. You can see what an amazing mom she would be.
I love that Regina is strong, she handles her duties at the hospital along with all of the other things in her life. However, at the beginning of the story, Regina is lost. Regina seems just to be settling and doesn't recognize what is right in front of her eyes. Although, she knows in heart that what she is doing isn't right.
Clint
Clint is our other main character. He is a professional baseball player with a bad reputation, whose in need of some positive publicity if he wants to continue being a baseball player. Clint goes back to his hometown to accomplish this and to stop Regina from marrying another man. What Clint finds is that he has missed the first three years of his nephew's life. Also, he likes Smithville, and the reasons that he left aren't there anymore.
Clint starts as a spoiled, pretty self-centered jerk, but as he learns how things are different now, he begins to grow. I do like the way he takes most things in stride. And Clint laughs and has a good time. It's nice to see that he loves his brothers. Clint has some redeeming qualities, but will they be enough for Regina to give him another chance?
Five Stars
I love that Regina and Clint have immediate chemistry and that their love is strong, even if the trust isn't there. The supporting characters excellent and so helpful when needed. The citizens of Smithville tell it like it is. However, they are there for each other. It's pleasant to see the community and comradery. Also, the story has some wonderfully funny parts. Some of the ideas for scavenger hunt items are so unique.
So, with all of that going for In a Pickle by Cindy Dorminy, I feel that five stars are in order. If you are looking for a fun romance with lots of heart, I recommend this one.
Check out this book too.
They aren't in a series per se, but this story comes before In a Pickle.
Will Clint and Regina find their way back together?
Regina
Regina is one of our main characters. She is a nurse, and she loves her small-town life in Smithville. Regina has a huge heart and manages to not stay mad at her ex-husband for being an attention hog. She is terrific with Clint's twin three-year-old nephews. You can see what an amazing mom she would be.
I love that Regina is strong, she handles her duties at the hospital along with all of the other things in her life. However, at the beginning of the story, Regina is lost. Regina seems just to be settling and doesn't recognize what is right in front of her eyes. Although, she knows in heart that what she is doing isn't right.
Clint
Clint is our other main character. He is a professional baseball player with a bad reputation, whose in need of some positive publicity if he wants to continue being a baseball player. Clint goes back to his hometown to accomplish this and to stop Regina from marrying another man. What Clint finds is that he has missed the first three years of his nephew's life. Also, he likes Smithville, and the reasons that he left aren't there anymore. Clint starts as a spoiled, pretty self-centered jerk, but as he learns how things are different now, he begins to grow. I do like the way he takes most things in stride. And Clint laughs and has a good time. It's nice to see that he loves his brothers. Clint has some redeeming qualities, but will they be enough for Regina to give him another chance?
Five Stars
I love that Regina and Clint have immediate chemistry and that their love is strong, even if the trust isn't there. The supporting characters excellent and so helpful when needed. The citizens of Smithville tell it like it is. However, they are there for each other. It's pleasant to see the community and comradery. Also, the story has some wonderfully funny parts. Some of the ideas for scavenger hunt items are so unique.
So, with all of that going for In a Pickle by Cindy Dorminy, I feel that five stars are in order. If you are looking for a fun romance with lots of heart, I recommend this one.
Check out this book too.
They aren't in a series per se, but this story comes before In a Pickle.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of In a Pickle by Cindy Dorminy.
Until the next time,
This Guest Review is for Baroness' Book Trove.
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
August 2, 2021
The blurb sounded amazing. I can be a total sucker for the classic, silly Hallmark rom-com, and the synopsis sounded like one of those movies turned into a book. A lot of the quintessential Hallmark movie tropes were present: picturesque small town? Check. Good looking, charming male lead? Check. Outspoken, cool female lead? Check. A fun/sweet reason to get them together? Check.
All of the necessary ingredients were there, but along the way, something went wrong. The execution wasn't good. For starters, the story opened up mentioning a whole bunch of characters with absolutely no elaboration on who everyone was. Strike one.
Then there was the let down of what the scavenger hunt competition actually entailed. This town was celebrating its 5Oth YEAR ANNIVERSARY of the so called Pickle Festival (FIVE. ZERO), which meant 50 Pickle Kings and 50 Pickle Queens, and only 5 couples signed on to compete? That's 1 out of 10. It felt so lame and small scale, and sad since it made me think no one in that supposedly tightly knit town cared enough to participate in the festivities. Maybe it would have been better as a 10th or 25th year anniversary celebration. On top of that, the scavenger hunt was so simple and uninspired. I mean, this was the whole reason Regina and Clint were together. It would have been the perfect set up for them to do something daring, outrageous, adventurous. Something fun, unexpected and unusual. But it turns out they spent a few hours over 3 days snapping pics of mundane and boring stuff. No competition whatsoever. That whole thing was a huge disappointment for me. It meant the whole set up was entirely pointless. Strike two.
And the final nail in the coffin? The pacing and flow of the story were not very good at all. Clint and Regina were so wishy-washy. And this was supposed to be a second chance (after a nasty break up) romance, which typically means there's a mandatory period of animosity before the couple starts warming again to each other. But not in this book! Regina's hostility went poof record-breaking quick. They got too friendly, too fast, which threw the whole thing out of whack. The relationship progression was all wrong and the story, all over the place. Strike three, you're out.
Then, there was the fact that everyone kept sneering at each other, even when, context-wise it made no sense whatsoever (I actually had to look up the meaning because I legit started questioning if I was mistaken on what the word meant). And how Clint's 3-year-old twin nephews acted and behave like they were, at least, double that age.
The thing when you're badly predisposed towards a book, is that inevitably you start nitpicking and getting annoyed over small, silly things. And sadly that's what happened here. I wanted to love this book so bad, and was really looking forward to it, but sadly it didn't work out for me which makes it doubly disappointing.
July 24, 2020
“In a Pickle,” by Cindy Dorminy is a delightful contemporary story about a young couple who seem to move in opposition to each other despite their mutual love and longing for the other. Crisp writing, fast pacing, engaging characters, authentic emotions, and well-executed use of humor make this book a winner.
Regina is a nurse in a small Georgia town she has called home for most of her life. She’s the kind of dedicated nurse we will all want if we need a nurse. She is also the kind of person who has a purple streak in her hair and still listens to her parents. She is recently engaged to Ken, a successful businessman she barely knows and who her friends dub “the Ken doll” because he looks like the famous companion to the Barbie doll.
Maybe there's a little something fishy about his quick proposal of marriage, but Regina says yes anyway. She’s not sure she loves Ken, but marriage to him has its attractions, and she wants to love him. Yet, down deep, no matter how she tries to hide it from herself and others, Regina still loves her first husband, Clint, a professional baseball player in trouble after a public fight and a bad season.
Regina and Clint are from the same small town and had been high school sweethearts. In college, they had married young—too young, it would seem. When he got a chance at the big leagues, he dropped out of college and the couple broke up, devastating Regina.
Neither really got over the other one.
When Regina’s small town hosts a contest involving former Pickle Kings and Queens, their high school version of Prom King and Queen, Regina—as a former Pickle Queen-- has a chance to win $5,000, which she needs for her upcoming wedding to Ken. Only one problem: she must participate in a three-day scavenger hunt with Clint, since he was her Pickle King.
Clint is in trouble with his league owner and needs to do a major PR campaign to restore his reputation, so he agrees to participate. But his real reason he agrees to return home is that he wants to see Regina. Once home, and reunited with his brothers and friends, he falls in love with Regina--and his hometown--all over again.
From that framework, the story develops even as Regina and Clint’s own relationship develops in a two-steps-forward, one-step back kind of way. There are some plain, flat out fun hijinks in this story, but at it core it is a sweet story about two people finding their way back to love.
Well written, charming, and engaging, “In a Pickle” is a delight.
Regina is a nurse in a small Georgia town she has called home for most of her life. She’s the kind of dedicated nurse we will all want if we need a nurse. She is also the kind of person who has a purple streak in her hair and still listens to her parents. She is recently engaged to Ken, a successful businessman she barely knows and who her friends dub “the Ken doll” because he looks like the famous companion to the Barbie doll.
Maybe there's a little something fishy about his quick proposal of marriage, but Regina says yes anyway. She’s not sure she loves Ken, but marriage to him has its attractions, and she wants to love him. Yet, down deep, no matter how she tries to hide it from herself and others, Regina still loves her first husband, Clint, a professional baseball player in trouble after a public fight and a bad season.
Regina and Clint are from the same small town and had been high school sweethearts. In college, they had married young—too young, it would seem. When he got a chance at the big leagues, he dropped out of college and the couple broke up, devastating Regina.
Neither really got over the other one.
When Regina’s small town hosts a contest involving former Pickle Kings and Queens, their high school version of Prom King and Queen, Regina—as a former Pickle Queen-- has a chance to win $5,000, which she needs for her upcoming wedding to Ken. Only one problem: she must participate in a three-day scavenger hunt with Clint, since he was her Pickle King.
Clint is in trouble with his league owner and needs to do a major PR campaign to restore his reputation, so he agrees to participate. But his real reason he agrees to return home is that he wants to see Regina. Once home, and reunited with his brothers and friends, he falls in love with Regina--and his hometown--all over again.
From that framework, the story develops even as Regina and Clint’s own relationship develops in a two-steps-forward, one-step back kind of way. There are some plain, flat out fun hijinks in this story, but at it core it is a sweet story about two people finding their way back to love.
Well written, charming, and engaging, “In a Pickle” is a delight.
July 4, 2020
"In a Pickle" by Cindy Dorminy was a sweet, funny, and charming small-town, second-chance romance featuring endearing characters and an amusing plot, and I adored it. It reminded me of the movie "Sweet Home Alabama" in some ways, which has always been a favorite of mine. The main characters of the book, high school sweethearts Clint and Regina, married in college for religious and financial reasons, but their relationship quickly fell apart when baseball prodigy Clint was drafted after their junior year and chose to leave school to pursue a professional career. They never forgot about each other, however, so when Clint's pro career hits the skids and he learns that Regina is engaged to another man, he jumps at the chance to return to their hometown of Smithville, Georgia to try and win back his girl. Regina is determined to move forward with her wedding to new fiance Ken, but Clint is keeping a secret that just might change her mind.
In the early part of the book, Clint came across as something of an arrogant jerk, but I had to give him credit for the fact that he admitted he had made mistakes and was making an effort to change, however unwillingly (and even if his sole motive seemed to be money and a new contract with his team at first). As he spent more time in Smithville with his family and old friends, however, he seemed to remember the person he was before he became famous, and I saw exactly why Regina fell in love with him when they were younger. I loved watching Clint and Regina reconnect as they competed together in the Pickle Festival scavenger hunt that brought Clint back to town.
In addition to Clint and Regina, this story featured a number of amusingly quirky secondary characters that added quite a bit of humor and depth to the narrative. I particularly enjoyed the two old ladies who ran the town gossip blog as well as the woman who ran the In a Jam coffee shop. Clint and Regina's family and friends were also a lot of fun, and it seems as if at least a couple of them have been featured in previous stories. I will definitely be checking those out when I find the time!
Overall, "In a Pickle" was a really cute, fun read, and I highly recommend it for all fans of contemporary romance, romantic comedy, and Southern chick lit. I look forward to seeing what Cindy Dorminy writes next!
*ARC provided by the author/publisher via Hidden Gems Books. All opinions expressed are my own.
In the early part of the book, Clint came across as something of an arrogant jerk, but I had to give him credit for the fact that he admitted he had made mistakes and was making an effort to change, however unwillingly (and even if his sole motive seemed to be money and a new contract with his team at first). As he spent more time in Smithville with his family and old friends, however, he seemed to remember the person he was before he became famous, and I saw exactly why Regina fell in love with him when they were younger. I loved watching Clint and Regina reconnect as they competed together in the Pickle Festival scavenger hunt that brought Clint back to town.
In addition to Clint and Regina, this story featured a number of amusingly quirky secondary characters that added quite a bit of humor and depth to the narrative. I particularly enjoyed the two old ladies who ran the town gossip blog as well as the woman who ran the In a Jam coffee shop. Clint and Regina's family and friends were also a lot of fun, and it seems as if at least a couple of them have been featured in previous stories. I will definitely be checking those out when I find the time!
Overall, "In a Pickle" was a really cute, fun read, and I highly recommend it for all fans of contemporary romance, romantic comedy, and Southern chick lit. I look forward to seeing what Cindy Dorminy writes next!
*ARC provided by the author/publisher via Hidden Gems Books. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 20, 2020
A quirky, funny, sweet, second-chance love story
This was my first story by Cindy Dorminy and I really enjoyed it. "In a Pickle" was a sweet, hilarious, second-chance romance, featuring a charming small-town, lovable characters, and a thoroughly entertaining plot.
The main characters of the book, are high school sweethearts Clint and Regina, they married in college, but their relationship quickly fell apart when Clint walked out on Regina when he was drafted after their junior year and left school to pursue a professional baseball career.
6 years later Clint is a free agent and before he gets a new contract, he needs to clean up his image, so he goes back to their hometown. There he learns that Regina is engaged to another man. He never really forgot about her and sets his mind up to try and win back his girl. However Regina is determined to move forward with her wedding to new fiance Ken, but Clint is keeping a secret that just might change her mind, but he is not the only one... What is Ken hiding? What is Clint's secret? Could it truly make Regina change her mind?
At first, Clint comes off as an arrogant jerk, and the only reason he is there is to change his image, but as he spends more time in his hometown, he starts remembering who he used to be. But, will that be enough to win Regina back?
I loved watching Clint and Regina reconnect as they competed together in the Pickle Festival scavenger.
In addition to Clint and Regina, this story featured a number of amusingly quirky secondary characters, meddling, well-meaning kin, friends, and townspeople that added quite a bit of humor and depth to the narrative.
I received a free ARC of this book from Hidden Gems. My review is voluntary. The opinions are my own
This was my first story by Cindy Dorminy and I really enjoyed it. "In a Pickle" was a sweet, hilarious, second-chance romance, featuring a charming small-town, lovable characters, and a thoroughly entertaining plot.
The main characters of the book, are high school sweethearts Clint and Regina, they married in college, but their relationship quickly fell apart when Clint walked out on Regina when he was drafted after their junior year and left school to pursue a professional baseball career.
6 years later Clint is a free agent and before he gets a new contract, he needs to clean up his image, so he goes back to their hometown. There he learns that Regina is engaged to another man. He never really forgot about her and sets his mind up to try and win back his girl. However Regina is determined to move forward with her wedding to new fiance Ken, but Clint is keeping a secret that just might change her mind, but he is not the only one... What is Ken hiding? What is Clint's secret? Could it truly make Regina change her mind?
At first, Clint comes off as an arrogant jerk, and the only reason he is there is to change his image, but as he spends more time in his hometown, he starts remembering who he used to be. But, will that be enough to win Regina back?
I loved watching Clint and Regina reconnect as they competed together in the Pickle Festival scavenger.
In addition to Clint and Regina, this story featured a number of amusingly quirky secondary characters, meddling, well-meaning kin, friends, and townspeople that added quite a bit of humor and depth to the narrative.
I received a free ARC of this book from Hidden Gems. My review is voluntary. The opinions are my own
December 29, 2024
i got this on sale 99 cents 12 27 2024
its in the town where the girl inherited a lot of money from her grandma winning the lotto
she is having a contest to have all the pickle queens and kings come back and take photos to win $50,000
the couple was married, only he forgot to submit the papers so they never got divorced
he is a famous ball player but is in trouble and might not get his contract signed. he is also in financial problems but he told her if she did the contest with him she could keep the money as he needed good publicity
she had a boyfriend who asked her to marry him after only dating and she was so surprised she said yes. her parents dont really think he is right for her. they never talked about anything to do with being married, like where they would live or kids
he also didnt tell her he was married and needs to get divorced. it has to do with his getting money too but she doesnt know that. she also didnt tell him she had been married before
she breaks up with the jerk
her former husband tells her he forgot to file the divorce papers so they are still married
they go to bed
then he finds out his assistant filed the papers and they are divorced
she thinks he lied to her
but he turns down the ball jobs and gets a job as coach so he can be in her town and they are going to get re married
its in the town where the girl inherited a lot of money from her grandma winning the lotto
she is having a contest to have all the pickle queens and kings come back and take photos to win $50,000
the couple was married, only he forgot to submit the papers so they never got divorced
he is a famous ball player but is in trouble and might not get his contract signed. he is also in financial problems but he told her if she did the contest with him she could keep the money as he needed good publicity
she had a boyfriend who asked her to marry him after only dating and she was so surprised she said yes. her parents dont really think he is right for her. they never talked about anything to do with being married, like where they would live or kids
he also didnt tell her he was married and needs to get divorced. it has to do with his getting money too but she doesnt know that. she also didnt tell him she had been married before
she breaks up with the jerk
her former husband tells her he forgot to file the divorce papers so they are still married
they go to bed
then he finds out his assistant filed the papers and they are divorced
she thinks he lied to her
but he turns down the ball jobs and gets a job as coach so he can be in her town and they are going to get re married
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2020
🏠🏡Sweetheart Pickle 👑 Kings and Queens roam Smithville again: delightful, small-town, romantic romp👍👍
4.5🌟stars⚾💞
What a fun follow-up to Dorminy's 2018 novel In a Jam which I adored. Same small Georgia town and mostly the same characters but a different romance. This one's a second chance for a nurse and a hometown boy who made the major baseball leagues. The scavenger hunt devised for former Pickle Kings and their consorts that runs through a large chunk of the story highlighted the small-town and loving family elements plus it incorporated some nostalgia for high school fads and fashions (Juicy Couture, where did you vanish to?!).
I will admit, the second chance romantic trope is one of my favorites and this couple's complicated past and present hit the mark for me with lots of emotion and a scintilla of sizzle🎇. But some of the heartwarming moments were also reserved for joyful and cozy times spent with two adorable three year olds👬. This plot was well-told and an all-round pleasure to read.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
4.5🌟stars⚾💞
What a fun follow-up to Dorminy's 2018 novel In a Jam which I adored. Same small Georgia town and mostly the same characters but a different romance. This one's a second chance for a nurse and a hometown boy who made the major baseball leagues. The scavenger hunt devised for former Pickle Kings and their consorts that runs through a large chunk of the story highlighted the small-town and loving family elements plus it incorporated some nostalgia for high school fads and fashions (Juicy Couture, where did you vanish to?!).
I will admit, the second chance romantic trope is one of my favorites and this couple's complicated past and present hit the mark for me with lots of emotion and a scintilla of sizzle🎇. But some of the heartwarming moments were also reserved for joyful and cozy times spent with two adorable three year olds👬. This plot was well-told and an all-round pleasure to read.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
June 21, 2020
It's time to be back in Smithville again a town that has given me so much enjoyment in book one. I thought Andie & Gunnar's story could not be topped but Cindy Dorminy has done it again with Regina & Clint. A second chance romance that will have you hooked to every word this author writes.
Clint Sorrow has made some mistakes in the last 6 years, he is facing the end of his career as a professional baseball player. An email from his home town of Smithville comes a the right time and will open up some problems for himself and others.
Regina Price has finally turned fond a chance of happiness again with a man the complete opposite of her ex-husband. But when she finds out about this year's Pickle Festival activity that includes the past Pickle Kings & Queens her world will be turned around when the one man that has broken her heart returns to town.
The story is full of many things from funny - cute - emotional - misunderstandings - drama - sassy - hope - forgiveness but most of all love and fate. A wonderful story that will give you so much joy to read and I am so looking forward to the next book and to find out its great title.
Clint Sorrow has made some mistakes in the last 6 years, he is facing the end of his career as a professional baseball player. An email from his home town of Smithville comes a the right time and will open up some problems for himself and others.
Regina Price has finally turned fond a chance of happiness again with a man the complete opposite of her ex-husband. But when she finds out about this year's Pickle Festival activity that includes the past Pickle Kings & Queens her world will be turned around when the one man that has broken her heart returns to town.
The story is full of many things from funny - cute - emotional - misunderstandings - drama - sassy - hope - forgiveness but most of all love and fate. A wonderful story that will give you so much joy to read and I am so looking forward to the next book and to find out its great title.
June 7, 2021
In a Pickle started out well. I liked both Clint and Regina and some of the scenes were really funny. But at some point the book seemed to want to be a slapstick sitcom with situations rising conveniently for laughs or for, well, convenience.
Both Clint and Regina became caricatures rather than evolving into fully realized characters. And, certainly not to sound sexist, but the numerous descriptions of Clint blushing, crying, whimpering, knees buckling just didn't work for my idea of a hotshot baseball player. Also, anyone who knows anyone who's a nurse knows they don't have time to pace back and forth in an ER regardless of whether they have any serious patients or not.
Possible spoiler:
By the ending, I'd grown tired of the lack of communication and wanted to bang their heads together and it was also at this time I wondered why a preemie baby was being handed off like a football rather than in an incubator when everyone was so worried.
While I looked forward to reading this novel, in the end, it just didn't work for me.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Both Clint and Regina became caricatures rather than evolving into fully realized characters. And, certainly not to sound sexist, but the numerous descriptions of Clint blushing, crying, whimpering, knees buckling just didn't work for my idea of a hotshot baseball player. Also, anyone who knows anyone who's a nurse knows they don't have time to pace back and forth in an ER regardless of whether they have any serious patients or not.
Possible spoiler:
By the ending, I'd grown tired of the lack of communication and wanted to bang their heads together and it was also at this time I wondered why a preemie baby was being handed off like a football rather than in an incubator when everyone was so worried.
While I looked forward to reading this novel, in the end, it just didn't work for me.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 24, 2025
This was a fun book to read! I liked the characters and the story.
Amazon synopsis:
After years of crying in her sweet tea, Regina finally has her life in order. She has a great job, wonderful friends, and a successful fiancé. But when the town council decides to do something special for this year’s Pickle Festival, life gets a little briny. As a former Pickle Queen, Regina has a chance to win fifty thousand dollars if she participates in a three-day photo scavenger hunt, but she must compete with her former Pickle King, Clint. He’s the guy who ripped her heart out when he left to play professional baseball and never looked back.
Clint Sorrow is as famous for starting bar fights as he is for stealing bases. Years ago, he vowed to never step foot back in Smithville, but when he finds out there’s a chance his baseball contract may not be renewed, he jumps at the opportunity to show his team he’s not a liability. As a bonus, he’ll get to spend time with Regina, the girl he left… and never stopped loving.
When Clint gets wind of Regina’s engagement, he decides he must stop it before she does something they’ll both regret. But Clint has a secret that will not only destroy her plans but may cause him to be benched for life.
Amazon synopsis:
After years of crying in her sweet tea, Regina finally has her life in order. She has a great job, wonderful friends, and a successful fiancé. But when the town council decides to do something special for this year’s Pickle Festival, life gets a little briny. As a former Pickle Queen, Regina has a chance to win fifty thousand dollars if she participates in a three-day photo scavenger hunt, but she must compete with her former Pickle King, Clint. He’s the guy who ripped her heart out when he left to play professional baseball and never looked back.
Clint Sorrow is as famous for starting bar fights as he is for stealing bases. Years ago, he vowed to never step foot back in Smithville, but when he finds out there’s a chance his baseball contract may not be renewed, he jumps at the opportunity to show his team he’s not a liability. As a bonus, he’ll get to spend time with Regina, the girl he left… and never stopped loving.
When Clint gets wind of Regina’s engagement, he decides he must stop it before she does something they’ll both regret. But Clint has a secret that will not only destroy her plans but may cause him to be benched for life.
March 24, 2021
What a fun read! I'd previously read "In a Jam" and wanted more of that southern, small town quirkiness -- this book delivered! It's a story about second chances - after her new boyfriend proposes, Regina is surprised when her "ex-husband" shows back up in town. Clint, a pro ball player, needs to redeem his reputation and what is more wholesome than returning to his hometown. As a former Pickle King and Queen, they team up for a festival scavenger hunt that leads to all kinds of fun and revelations!
It's just a cute story - lots of fun to read, the characters are so likeable, I love the townfolks - it's a quick, easy, feel good read! I'm hoping the series continues - I'd like to spend more time with these characters! Especially Dr. Mel and Mitch.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a temporary digital ARC in return for my review.
It's just a cute story - lots of fun to read, the characters are so likeable, I love the townfolks - it's a quick, easy, feel good read! I'm hoping the series continues - I'd like to spend more time with these characters! Especially Dr. Mel and Mitch.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a temporary digital ARC in return for my review.
April 14, 2021
Thanks to Red Adept Publishing, LLC and Netgalley, I was chosen as an reviewer.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This book alternates between Regina, a nurse who gets engaged to man without getting her father’s permission and Clint a professional baseball player who is a hot head and can’t stay out of jail from bar fights. Both get themselves “in a pickle”hence the name of the book. Regina and Clint used to be Pickle Queen and King when they were in high school. Their small town is bringing back all the couples for a competition. Whomever wins, gets to split $50,000. Will this competition help them each get out of their own pickle or will their life continue to spiral out of control getting themselves more into a pickle? This book will have you turning the pages to find out and laughing out-loud along the way. A light fun read that should be added to your TBR list.
May 4, 2021
This is a sweet story about second chances at love. Regina, hometown girl, nurse at the local hospital and finally getting ahead in her life. She has a "Ken" doll boyfriend that could soon be her husband. Clint is the washed-up head case pro baseball player that needs to get his act together if he wants to continue playing ball. His agent tells him he needs good press. What better way than to go back to his small hometown and participate in the Pickle Festival. But there's a catch. He will have to see Regina again and he isn't sure if that will be a good thing. He has a secret he has been keeping from her and she won't be happy. He reconnects with friends and family and actually has fun participating in the scavenger hunt with Regina. It is almost like old times, but is it really?
A perfect summer read that is light and happy.
A perfect summer read that is light and happy.
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