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Small Town Trouble #3
In a Nutshell
Mitchell Sorrow wallows in a major funk after his decades-long crush leaves town for good. Intent on powering through, he throws himself into his work as an EMT at Smithville Regional Hospital. He’ll steer clear of women, especially those who love their careers more than people. Jackie Myers, chief development officer at a hospital association, is determined to climb the corporate ladder. The best way to do that is to show upper management she’s capable of making tough decisions, such as closing a fledgling rural hospital. When she’s assigned to visit Smithville under the guise of writing an article about small-town life, she’ll easily assess how dire the hospital situation really is.After suffering an allergic reaction at the fall festival, Jackie blabs the true reason for her visit. Desperate to save the hospital, Mitch agrees to a deal. In exchange for keeping her secret, he gets one week to convince her the hospital is essential. But the more time they spend together, the more complicated things become. Mitch begins to open his heart, and Jackie’s decision becomes nearly impossible. He may never forgive her, and she’ll lose the only guy who can take her breath away – no Epi pen required.
- GenresFiction
234 pages, Paperback
Published May 28, 2021
43 people are currently reading
106 people want to read
About the author
Cindy Dorminy
17 books165 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 38 reviews
July 20, 2021
This is a great series and the book is full of quick wit, snarky comments, and studly men.
Jackie wants to be a tough gal and earn a promotion at work (by closing a small town hospital), but underneath she is a big ol' softy and wants a better life than what she had growing up where families interact and support each other and it isn't just superficial. Mitch may have had a tough life as a child but he has his brothers supporting him and grounding him. He does like smart women which will work well for Jackie.
I have really enjoyed all of the books in this series so far and am hoping that a character from this book, Penny, has her own book in the future. I can only imagine that story! The town citizens are nosy as you can expect from a small town and the old ladies that run the blog about the town are witty when it comes to talking about Mitch and Jackie and using nut puns due to her allergy and Mitch saving her life when she accidentally ingests his pie which has a nut crust.
There are misunderstandings that add to the tension of the story and I love the outcome of the book regarding the small-town hospital.
This is a wonderful series and I suggest reading all of the books (preferably in order) to learn more about the other couples.
Jackie wants to be a tough gal and earn a promotion at work (by closing a small town hospital), but underneath she is a big ol' softy and wants a better life than what she had growing up where families interact and support each other and it isn't just superficial. Mitch may have had a tough life as a child but he has his brothers supporting him and grounding him. He does like smart women which will work well for Jackie.
I have really enjoyed all of the books in this series so far and am hoping that a character from this book, Penny, has her own book in the future. I can only imagine that story! The town citizens are nosy as you can expect from a small town and the old ladies that run the blog about the town are witty when it comes to talking about Mitch and Jackie and using nut puns due to her allergy and Mitch saving her life when she accidentally ingests his pie which has a nut crust.
There are misunderstandings that add to the tension of the story and I love the outcome of the book regarding the small-town hospital.
This is a wonderful series and I suggest reading all of the books (preferably in order) to learn more about the other couples.
June 7, 2021
If I were able to put more than 5 stars I would surely do it for this book. I was not able to put it down since I start reading it. It was so refreshing. This Sorrow brothers are something else. The sense of community in Smithville and how all of them help and support each other is amazing. I highly recommend this book and all of Cindy Dorminy books. Be sure to also read In a Jam and In a Pickle. Cindy is one of my favorite authors. Congratulations Cindy, you did it again!!
June 9, 2021
I had the privilege of reading an advance copy thanks to Dorminy to give my honest review.
This is the 3rd book of a small town series with likable characters, integrated into the other books as their story is introduced. But they can all be read as a stand-a-lone.
Just as with the rest of the series, I loved this one. The small town feel of it warms my heart & the characters keep me pulling for them. In this “enemies to lovers” story, Mitch has had a rocky love life when in walks Jackie, who throws a wrench into his world.
These books are always a happy distraction, making me feel warm & fuzzy.
This is the 3rd book of a small town series with likable characters, integrated into the other books as their story is introduced. But they can all be read as a stand-a-lone.
Just as with the rest of the series, I loved this one. The small town feel of it warms my heart & the characters keep me pulling for them. In this “enemies to lovers” story, Mitch has had a rocky love life when in walks Jackie, who throws a wrench into his world.
These books are always a happy distraction, making me feel warm & fuzzy.
June 16, 2021
On a hot summer day I was looking for something to read that would take me to a fun and easy-going place with some down to earth, real characters. Cindy Dorminy wrote the perfect small-town romance for me to enjoy. I loved the cute and quaint setting of Smithsville and the wonderful sense of community. The way the town opened their arms to Jackie, a stranger, and welcomed her into their homes, jobs, and lives gave me hope that Jackie would feel the pull of Smithsville. The Stud of Smithville also gave me HUGE hopes that Jackie would find the acceptance, love, and support that she did not realize she was needing.
In a Nutshell was a quick, fun, and easy book to read. The story flowed quickly and there were not many surprises. The story read just as a small-town romance should. The city girl comes to town not looking to stay, meets an amazing man who wins her heart, and falls in love with the small-town making her want to never leave. I loved that the characters were easy to relate to, easy to remember, and easy to like.
Jackie and Mitchell’s story was the perfect escape. I recommend picking up your own copy and meeting the wonderful people of Smithsville.
In a Nutshell was a quick, fun, and easy book to read. The story flowed quickly and there were not many surprises. The story read just as a small-town romance should. The city girl comes to town not looking to stay, meets an amazing man who wins her heart, and falls in love with the small-town making her want to never leave. I loved that the characters were easy to relate to, easy to remember, and easy to like.
Jackie and Mitchell’s story was the perfect escape. I recommend picking up your own copy and meeting the wonderful people of Smithsville.
June 10, 2021
Jackie’s goal isn’t Tom become VP no matter what it takes. Even closing an small town hospital. Her assignment is to assess Smithville’s hospital for a week, return to Atlanta and get her promotion. But the community and a handsome but troubled man will make her rethink all her life. Can she find what she was looking for in a small town and changer her life forever? Sweet love story.
June 11, 2021
I fell in love with these two characters as fast as they fell in love with each other! It's not listed as a series, but I definitely want to go back to read the two stories that precede this one!
*I am leaving an honest and voluntary review after receiving this book as an arc.
*I am leaving an honest and voluntary review after receiving this book as an arc.
August 5, 2021
After the first two books - I was NOT expecting Mitch to end up with anyone other than Dr. Mel. SO finding out that Mel has left town in the wake of some not so great decisions that seriously impact Mitch (beyond him being super sad that Mel is gone) was something of a surprise! That being said - I loved Jackie for Mitch so much more than I ever liked Mel.
Mitch is a gem - he is a conscientious caretaker, good friend, great uncle, serious hottie, and all around pretty awesome guy. He and Jackie spark from the first - and watching him show her how to slow down and embrace family and the slow lane was lovely. Jackie is a Type CAPITAL A personality. She career focused, competitive, and takes no prisoners. She isn't nasty about it or mean - which was also nice to see. So often - women are placed in one bucket or the other - and it was nice to see that Jackie was a real - well-rounded person.
I also really appreciated that no one ever treated Jackie badly or was angry at her for doing her job or what she might personally gain from it. I appreciated that level of practicality of all the characters and it seemed very true to their nature and to their town. It was hard to watch Jackie struggle with those same things - and face her ethical dilemmas - and then everything that came after. Mitch's feelings - true to form for the series - were also realistic and not magically whisked away by love.
Overall - I've really enjoyed this serious of realistic, small town romances that focus on second chances and starting over.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
Mitch is a gem - he is a conscientious caretaker, good friend, great uncle, serious hottie, and all around pretty awesome guy. He and Jackie spark from the first - and watching him show her how to slow down and embrace family and the slow lane was lovely. Jackie is a Type CAPITAL A personality. She career focused, competitive, and takes no prisoners. She isn't nasty about it or mean - which was also nice to see. So often - women are placed in one bucket or the other - and it was nice to see that Jackie was a real - well-rounded person.
I also really appreciated that no one ever treated Jackie badly or was angry at her for doing her job or what she might personally gain from it. I appreciated that level of practicality of all the characters and it seemed very true to their nature and to their town. It was hard to watch Jackie struggle with those same things - and face her ethical dilemmas - and then everything that came after. Mitch's feelings - true to form for the series - were also realistic and not magically whisked away by love.
Overall - I've really enjoyed this serious of realistic, small town romances that focus on second chances and starting over.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
June 10, 2021
4* ARC Review – More than an Allergic Reaction
I was introduced to this author by Hidden Gems ARC program. Having read other books, I was anxious to read this one. It is a standalone but might be enjoyed more if you have read the prior books in her Smithville series. This is the story of Jackie, an attorney assigned to go to Smithville and evaluate their local regional hospital. From the numbers, she thinks it should be closed but convinces her boss it might be better to see in person.
When she arrives in town, she meets Mitch and it is an instant attraction, yet there is some friction. Jackie inadvertently has a bite of pie with a pecan crust and goes into an anaphylaxis type reaction and since he is an EMT, Mitch rushes her to the hospital. Once he realizes why she is there, Mitch convinces her to give him a week to show her the value of the hospital. Since others do not know her real purpose in being there, they appear like a couple and seem to take their roles seriously. They cannot fight the chemistry between them.
Really liked this story, my only issue was the way Jackie and her sister talk about the dangers of being out in the city of Atlanta. Thought it was a huge exaggeration and if true, why would anyone live there?!?!
I was introduced to this author by Hidden Gems ARC program. Having read other books, I was anxious to read this one. It is a standalone but might be enjoyed more if you have read the prior books in her Smithville series. This is the story of Jackie, an attorney assigned to go to Smithville and evaluate their local regional hospital. From the numbers, she thinks it should be closed but convinces her boss it might be better to see in person.
When she arrives in town, she meets Mitch and it is an instant attraction, yet there is some friction. Jackie inadvertently has a bite of pie with a pecan crust and goes into an anaphylaxis type reaction and since he is an EMT, Mitch rushes her to the hospital. Once he realizes why she is there, Mitch convinces her to give him a week to show her the value of the hospital. Since others do not know her real purpose in being there, they appear like a couple and seem to take their roles seriously. They cannot fight the chemistry between them.
Really liked this story, my only issue was the way Jackie and her sister talk about the dangers of being out in the city of Atlanta. Thought it was a huge exaggeration and if true, why would anyone live there?!?!
June 8, 2021
City meets country with explosive chemistry. I think this just might be my favorite book in the series. I found it so easy to connect with Jackie and all of her fish-out-of-water feelings. Even the feelings of chasing the wrong dream when those occurred to her. In a rare turn of events, it was Mitch I had more difficulty connecting with. I could sympathise with the poor treatment he’d received at the hands of his crush, but I kind of felt like he unfairly took his bitterness over her out on Jackie. In the midst of that roller-coaster ride, the pair kept me laughing with their snarky banter and the hijinks of their friends and family. I loved the solution they find in the end, and I’m dying to read even more about the quirky town of Smithville.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book through Hidden Gems Books.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book through Hidden Gems Books.
August 18, 2022
This is a Small Southern Town Romance, and this is the third book in the Small Town Trouble series. I have read and review the other books in this series. I do feel this series should be read in order and not as a standalone. I cannot wait for more books in this series. I love the characters in this book series. There is so many fun characters in this series. I love how everyone in Smithville really cares about this town. This book was so much fun, and I really enjoyed reading this book. I did see the ending going the way it did, but it was still very good.
July 19, 2021
Thank you NetGalley, Cindy Dorminy and Red Adept Publishing for the copy of In a Nutshell.
This is my personal review.
This is the third book in the series, and it is as great as the other two!
Small town romance in a great southern town makes for good reading for me. I love becoming part of small towns and getting to be part of it. This story drew me in and kept me there from page one to the last word!
I hope that this series in made into Hallmark movies—it would make for a great way to spend a cold winter day snuggled under a blanket with a hot cup of tea.
This is my personal review.
This is the third book in the series, and it is as great as the other two!
Small town romance in a great southern town makes for good reading for me. I love becoming part of small towns and getting to be part of it. This story drew me in and kept me there from page one to the last word!
I hope that this series in made into Hallmark movies—it would make for a great way to spend a cold winter day snuggled under a blanket with a hot cup of tea.
June 16, 2021
Jackie and Mitch’s story will keep you on your toes and make you want to know what happens next. A sweet story with all the drama and swoon-worthy moments, you should not miss this.
July 3, 2021
This was such a fun, light-hearted romance! I love small town romance, especially when one of the two MCs are from the city, so you get to see them adjust and realize the beauty and value of living in a smaller environment. It was really exciting to see the characters develop over the course of the book, going from enemies to friends to lovers - very swoonworthy and emotional. As a closed-door romance with a homey feel to it, it felt very much like a Hallmark movie, so if you love Hallmark, you will love this book. I could easily see it being made into a movie, and in fact, if it's not, Hallmark is seriously missing out. It's a later book in the series, so I was worried I wouldn't fully appreciate the story without having read the previous books. However, I felt it could definitely be a standalone, if you want to start reading here.
Climbing up the corporate ladder as a woman in a male-dominated industry is hard enough, but when you have a frenemy trying to climb alongside you and knock you off, things can get pretty competitive. So when Jackie Dalton is given the opportunity to obtain the coveted VP spot at her company, she will do whatever she needs to do - including shut down a low-performing hospital in the small town of Smithville. Under the guise of a journalist writing about the town, she never expects that it will be full of charming people who welcome her with open arms. And she especially doesn't anticipate meeting Mitch Sorrow, the local EMT and dubbed the Smithville Stud by the locals. When Mitch discovers why she's really in town, they make a deal - she will give him one week to convince her that the hospital is worth saving. Forced to spend time together, they butt heads and trade jabs at each other's egos, but eventually their hearts begin to see that it's not just the hospital that is worth saving. Maybe the love they have been waiting for is worth saving too.
Jackie had the biggest character development throughout the book, moving from a cocky city girl who thinks herself superior to the small town residents of Smithville to a vulnerable woman who sees what she has always wanted may be right in front of her. In her early 30s, she is starting to think about kids, but not being in a relationship has made her set those plans aside. When she meets Mitch, she sees the life she has dreamed of but always felt was out of reach. I loved seeing her change and realize how wonderful life could be. Mitch was an insecure guy with the body of a god, so it was funny to see how he acted around Jackie. Both had enormous egos and tempers to match, but Mitch always felt the less mature one of the two. While Jackie learned from her mistakes, Mitch took a lot longer to catch up. I was a bit disappointed in how he handled news later on in the book, never taking responsibility for his own part in the drama, and Jackie let him get away with that. I would have liked to see Jackie stand up for herself more, but that didn't happen. Nevertheless, this is a romance so it all works out in the end, and I was really happy to see how it played out. It makes me wish I could find a town like Smithville to move to, because I am definitely a country girl living in a city.
I look forward to reading more about Smithville, and I'll be going back to read the previous books in the series. Can't get enough of the small town atmosphere!
**I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest review.**
Climbing up the corporate ladder as a woman in a male-dominated industry is hard enough, but when you have a frenemy trying to climb alongside you and knock you off, things can get pretty competitive. So when Jackie Dalton is given the opportunity to obtain the coveted VP spot at her company, she will do whatever she needs to do - including shut down a low-performing hospital in the small town of Smithville. Under the guise of a journalist writing about the town, she never expects that it will be full of charming people who welcome her with open arms. And she especially doesn't anticipate meeting Mitch Sorrow, the local EMT and dubbed the Smithville Stud by the locals. When Mitch discovers why she's really in town, they make a deal - she will give him one week to convince her that the hospital is worth saving. Forced to spend time together, they butt heads and trade jabs at each other's egos, but eventually their hearts begin to see that it's not just the hospital that is worth saving. Maybe the love they have been waiting for is worth saving too.
Jackie had the biggest character development throughout the book, moving from a cocky city girl who thinks herself superior to the small town residents of Smithville to a vulnerable woman who sees what she has always wanted may be right in front of her. In her early 30s, she is starting to think about kids, but not being in a relationship has made her set those plans aside. When she meets Mitch, she sees the life she has dreamed of but always felt was out of reach. I loved seeing her change and realize how wonderful life could be. Mitch was an insecure guy with the body of a god, so it was funny to see how he acted around Jackie. Both had enormous egos and tempers to match, but Mitch always felt the less mature one of the two. While Jackie learned from her mistakes, Mitch took a lot longer to catch up. I was a bit disappointed in how he handled news later on in the book, never taking responsibility for his own part in the drama, and Jackie let him get away with that. I would have liked to see Jackie stand up for herself more, but that didn't happen. Nevertheless, this is a romance so it all works out in the end, and I was really happy to see how it played out. It makes me wish I could find a town like Smithville to move to, because I am definitely a country girl living in a city.
I look forward to reading more about Smithville, and I'll be going back to read the previous books in the series. Can't get enough of the small town atmosphere!
**I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest review.**
November 14, 2021
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 Nutshell by Cindy Dorminy has small-town charm, funny situations, and love. An absolutely wonderful read.
Will Mitch and Jackie figure out each other and a way to save the hospital?
Mitch Sorrow
Mitch is our male lead, an EMT, and the middle Sorrow brother. Mitch loves being an uncle to his twin nephews and adorable baby niece. A few people in town have given him the nickname of 'Smithville Stud.' That should sum up his appearance. Yet Mitch falls for girls who are intelligent and ambitious. He isn't as shallow as his nickname leads people to believe. Mitch also loves his hometown and knows how much the hospital means to the residents of Smithville. However, he needs to let go of the past.
I like Mitch. He is intelligent, reliable, and loves his family and friends. Mitch sees people in the community in ways that others don't, and the fact that he cares is so touching and genuinely shows his character. I could see how great it would be to be friends with him.
Jackie Myers Dalton
Jackie is an attorney for Southeastern Hospital Association in Atlanta, Georgia. She has been tasked with completing a report that will shut down the Smithville Hospital. However, once she gets to know the people of Smithville, she realizes how devasting that will be for the town. So, it all comes down to her morals. Will she close the hospital or keep it going?
I like Jackie. She has it all on the outside, but honestly, she is lonely. Jackie doesn't fit in where she is but does she fit in Smithville? Jackie is brilliant, but she allows outside forces to shape her life. I believe she can be a strong independent woman, but she needs to step up and embrace it. Jackie grows so much throughout the story. I think she is phenomenal.
The Story
Smithville is one of those small Southern towns with quirky characters that like to stick their nose in everyone's business. So, what's not to love? The story is sweet, with these funny situations and some drama. All of it kept me entertained and drawn into the storyline. I was so rooting for these characters.
Five Stars
I adore the whole package, and therefore my rating for In a Nutshell by Cindy Dorminy is five stars. I highly recommend this series if you haven't already check out these other two books too.
Other Books Set in Smithville
Will Mitch and Jackie figure out each other and a way to save the hospital?
Mitch Sorrow
Mitch is our male lead, an EMT, and the middle Sorrow brother. Mitch loves being an uncle to his twin nephews and adorable baby niece. A few people in town have given him the nickname of 'Smithville Stud.' That should sum up his appearance. Yet Mitch falls for girls who are intelligent and ambitious. He isn't as shallow as his nickname leads people to believe. Mitch also loves his hometown and knows how much the hospital means to the residents of Smithville. However, he needs to let go of the past.
I like Mitch. He is intelligent, reliable, and loves his family and friends. Mitch sees people in the community in ways that others don't, and the fact that he cares is so touching and genuinely shows his character. I could see how great it would be to be friends with him.
Jackie Myers Dalton Jackie is an attorney for Southeastern Hospital Association in Atlanta, Georgia. She has been tasked with completing a report that will shut down the Smithville Hospital. However, once she gets to know the people of Smithville, she realizes how devasting that will be for the town. So, it all comes down to her morals. Will she close the hospital or keep it going?
I like Jackie. She has it all on the outside, but honestly, she is lonely. Jackie doesn't fit in where she is but does she fit in Smithville? Jackie is brilliant, but she allows outside forces to shape her life. I believe she can be a strong independent woman, but she needs to step up and embrace it. Jackie grows so much throughout the story. I think she is phenomenal.
The Story
Smithville is one of those small Southern towns with quirky characters that like to stick their nose in everyone's business. So, what's not to love? The story is sweet, with these funny situations and some drama. All of it kept me entertained and drawn into the storyline. I was so rooting for these characters.
Five Stars
I adore the whole package, and therefore my rating for In a Nutshell by Cindy Dorminy is five stars. I highly recommend this series if you haven't already check out these other two books too.
Other Books Set in Smithville
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of In a Nutshell by Cindy Dorminy.
Until the next time,
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
July 30, 2021
The whole book was a bit of a mess to me. There are so many small plot points that just aren't thought out. I didn't immediately love Jackie, but she actually grew on me. The real problem was Mitch and their relationship as a whole.
Their whole "tension" and somewhat harsh banter seemed forced, as there actually was absolutely no point to them being an unfriendly. There was no misunderstanding or anything like that. I think the author was trying for a bit of an enemies to lovers theme but it just didn't work for me.
Besides that Mitch completely overreactes after the "big reveal" of the story line that actually doesn't make much of a difference. Mitch didn't just lash out because he was hurt, he was super cruel to Jackie, once when it wasn't even the heat of the moment. It's never addressed that he behaves absolutely inappropriately and he never apologizes. It's all on Jackie to right the wrongs, though in the end she didn't actually do anything wrong. It frustrated me to no end that everyone acted like Mitch didn't behave like an ass
Another thing was that everyone seemed to think it was Jackie's decision to shut down the hospital. First of all, if she didn't audit the hospital, someone else would have. Second, it is absolutely crystal clear in my option that she has no deciding power, she is literally making a recommendation. Her calling Mitch's former crush to do so was HER JOB. Mitch being mad about her not trusting him, when she would have been in a lot of trouble if she hadn't called... Makes no sense.
Overall not the book for me and it had me really frustrated. I wish Mitch hadn't been so self centered and focused on what he thought Jackie did wrong without talking to her.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Their whole "tension" and somewhat harsh banter seemed forced, as there actually was absolutely no point to them being an unfriendly. There was no misunderstanding or anything like that. I think the author was trying for a bit of an enemies to lovers theme but it just didn't work for me.
Besides that Mitch completely overreactes after the "big reveal" of the story line that actually doesn't make much of a difference. Mitch didn't just lash out because he was hurt, he was super cruel to Jackie, once when it wasn't even the heat of the moment. It's never addressed that he behaves absolutely inappropriately and he never apologizes. It's all on Jackie to right the wrongs, though in the end she didn't actually do anything wrong. It frustrated me to no end that everyone acted like Mitch didn't behave like an ass
Another thing was that everyone seemed to think it was Jackie's decision to shut down the hospital. First of all, if she didn't audit the hospital, someone else would have. Second, it is absolutely crystal clear in my option that she has no deciding power, she is literally making a recommendation. Her calling Mitch's former crush to do so was HER JOB. Mitch being mad about her not trusting him, when she would have been in a lot of trouble if she hadn't called... Makes no sense.
Overall not the book for me and it had me really frustrated. I wish Mitch hadn't been so self centered and focused on what he thought Jackie did wrong without talking to her.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 4, 2021
🏥💕Sweet romance 🎳strikes in a small-town setting
This is the third book I've read in this small-town Georgia series and it was a fun return to a town "where everyone knows your name." Mitch, the male lead, was almost too perfect. He's great with his brother's children, a true quick-acting hero in a medical crisis and good-looking as well. Jackie, the ambitious visitor from Atlanta who gets hooked on the perks of life in this small town, was very conflicted and harder to get a bead on but basically a good person put in a tough position by her boss.
Their romance is sweet with just a touch of warmth and the conflict and secrets that sour things added some drama. I preferred the earlier books, especially In a Jam, but enjoyed the romance and the Mayberry flavor added by the secondary townsfolk in In a Nutshell. It's a standalone with a definite ending but with the town's residents returning from the previous books.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
This is the third book I've read in this small-town Georgia series and it was a fun return to a town "where everyone knows your name." Mitch, the male lead, was almost too perfect. He's great with his brother's children, a true quick-acting hero in a medical crisis and good-looking as well. Jackie, the ambitious visitor from Atlanta who gets hooked on the perks of life in this small town, was very conflicted and harder to get a bead on but basically a good person put in a tough position by her boss.
Their romance is sweet with just a touch of warmth and the conflict and secrets that sour things added some drama. I preferred the earlier books, especially In a Jam, but enjoyed the romance and the Mayberry flavor added by the secondary townsfolk in In a Nutshell. It's a standalone with a definite ending but with the town's residents returning from the previous books.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
February 24, 2025
A good story with interesting characters. I enjoyed this book.
Amazon synopsis:
Mitchell Sorrow wallows in a major funk after his decades-long crush leaves town for good. Intent on powering through, he throws himself into his work as an EMT at Smithville Regional Hospital. He’ll steer clear of women, especially those who love their careers more than people.
Jackie Myers, chief development officer at a hospital association, is determined to climb the corporate ladder. The best way to do that is to show upper management she’s capable of making tough decisions, such as closing a fledgling rural hospital. When she’s assigned to visit Smithville under the guise of writing an article about small-town life, she’ll easily assess how dire the hospital situation really is.
After suffering an allergic reaction at the fall festival, Jackie blabs the true reason for her visit. Desperate to save the hospital, Mitch agrees to a deal. In exchange for keeping her secret, he gets one week to convince her the hospital is essential. But the more time they spend together, the more complicated things become. Mitch begins to open his heart, and Jackie’s decision becomes nearly impossible. He may never forgive her, and she’ll lose the only guy who can take her breath away – no Epi pen required.
Amazon synopsis:
Mitchell Sorrow wallows in a major funk after his decades-long crush leaves town for good. Intent on powering through, he throws himself into his work as an EMT at Smithville Regional Hospital. He’ll steer clear of women, especially those who love their careers more than people.
Jackie Myers, chief development officer at a hospital association, is determined to climb the corporate ladder. The best way to do that is to show upper management she’s capable of making tough decisions, such as closing a fledgling rural hospital. When she’s assigned to visit Smithville under the guise of writing an article about small-town life, she’ll easily assess how dire the hospital situation really is.
After suffering an allergic reaction at the fall festival, Jackie blabs the true reason for her visit. Desperate to save the hospital, Mitch agrees to a deal. In exchange for keeping her secret, he gets one week to convince her the hospital is essential. But the more time they spend together, the more complicated things become. Mitch begins to open his heart, and Jackie’s decision becomes nearly impossible. He may never forgive her, and she’ll lose the only guy who can take her breath away – no Epi pen required.
July 9, 2021
Thanks to Red Adept Publishing and Netgalley, I was chosen as a reviewer of this book!
This book alternates between Mitch, a paramedic, whom his girlfriend of 10 years left him for to work for Doctors Without Boarders in Africa and Jackie a chief development officer at a hospital, who has to prove herself in order to get promoted in her male dominated work place. Jackie and Mitch meet when Jackie is sent to Mitch’s hometown and hospital for work to determine if they need to shut it down because of financial reasons. Will Mitch be able to convince Jackie that this hospital is essential and life saving? Will Jackie get the promotion she is working hard toward? This book will have you turning the pages to find out!
Cindy Dorminy writes small hometown stories that are heartwarming and will leave you feeling hopeful!
A fun light summer read, perfect for your beach or pool bag!
This book alternates between Mitch, a paramedic, whom his girlfriend of 10 years left him for to work for Doctors Without Boarders in Africa and Jackie a chief development officer at a hospital, who has to prove herself in order to get promoted in her male dominated work place. Jackie and Mitch meet when Jackie is sent to Mitch’s hometown and hospital for work to determine if they need to shut it down because of financial reasons. Will Mitch be able to convince Jackie that this hospital is essential and life saving? Will Jackie get the promotion she is working hard toward? This book will have you turning the pages to find out!
Cindy Dorminy writes small hometown stories that are heartwarming and will leave you feeling hopeful!
A fun light summer read, perfect for your beach or pool bag!
August 15, 2021
I was lucky enough to get a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I went and read to first 2 books in this series before I read this one and I’m so glad I did as they introduced so many of the characters in this book. Jackie is sent to town to see if the hospital were Mitch works should be shut down. Jackie & Mitch have chemistry from the first time they meet. Mitch learns who she is and wants to show her how much the hospital means to the community. They both fall head over heels for each other, but If Jackie does a good job she gets promoted, but the hospital closes, Mitch loses his job and Jackie loses Mitch. I really loved all the characters in this book and would love to return to Smithville.
October 9, 2021
I absolutely loved Mitch and Jackie's story. They may have started off at odds, but it was clear they were truly meant for each other. The story was engaging, with just enough tension to ensure it never got boring. Neither Jackie nor Mitch is necessarily expecting to find love - for entirely different reasons, but sometimes fate throws you a curveball. I loved how the small-town setting never turns cliché (which in my opinion is difficult to pull off). The weather might be turning cool, but this is a wonderful romance that will warm your heart.
August 16, 2022
The third book in this series is just as good as the other two. A fun, enjoyable read. Our guy in this one is Mitch, the last single Sorrow brother and the "Smithville Stud". What do you do when the person you have been chasing since high school just leaves town with no notice & no good-bye. You simply revert into yourself. All of your family & friends can't dig you out of it by telling you to move on or begging you to find someone else. It has to be you or maybe a beautiful visitor to town. I have loved this series and I think you will too. Maybe Ms Dorminy will add another to the series sometime soon.
June 8, 2021
A fun read
Jackie starts out as the “bad guy" being that she has come to Smithville to shut down their struggling hospital. She uses the cover of writing about life in a small town; however, she accidentally reveals what she is really there for when she suffers an allergic reaction at the festival to Mitch. He has one week to convince her not to do so.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Jackie starts out as the “bad guy" being that she has come to Smithville to shut down their struggling hospital. She uses the cover of writing about life in a small town; however, she accidentally reveals what she is really there for when she suffers an allergic reaction at the festival to Mitch. He has one week to convince her not to do so.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
July 19, 2023
In a Nutshell is a sweet story about Mitch, seemingly the last single man in Swiftville, and Jackie, a determined woman on a mission to get a promotion at work. Mitch has been through a lot, and with Mel leaving recently, his hopes at anything with her are dashed. Just when he thinks he's off women for good, he sees Jackie roll into town and stops him short.
I loved how, despite their best efforts, they just kept falling.
I loved how, despite their best efforts, they just kept falling.
July 9, 2021
I always love small time romance books and this one is no exception!
This is the 3rd book in the series and I love how you get updates on characters from the previous books. it's lovely knowing their story doesn't end with their particular book.
I have read a few books by this author and will continue to do so. I highly recommend any book by this author!!!
This is the 3rd book in the series and I love how you get updates on characters from the previous books. it's lovely knowing their story doesn't end with their particular book.
I have read a few books by this author and will continue to do so. I highly recommend any book by this author!!!
August 8, 2021
I want to thank Netgalley and the author for gifting me the ebook. I have read the first two books and they were very cute and light hearted. So when I heard there was going to be a third book I was very very excited! The author did not disappoint. Very cute story with cute characters. Easy read! Perfect for a beach read!
August 18, 2021
A quick, fun, and easy read. Small town romance with a supportive community, fun and likeable characters. The story is written in dual POV and is centered around a city girl coming to a small town for work and ends up falling in love with the town’s hottie and has to decide to stay or advance her career. A nice, light summer read
October 4, 2021
In a Nutshell is a charming small town romance. This is the third in a series by Cindy Dorminy where Smithville is the place to be. Full of family, friends, and fun; this is Jackie and Mitch's story. Thanks to author Cindy Dorminy, Red Adept Publishing, and NetGalley for providing a copy of this book for an honest review.
August 27, 2022
Honestly I wasn’t enjoying it anyway, Jackie is super unlikeable, but I was planning on sticking it out until the horrible body shaming at 38%. DNF. I was reading this on kindle unlimited and I’m not giving this author any more money for this trash by continuing to read it. Body shaming is not funny or cute.
March 2, 2025
In a Nutshell is an endearing story about Mitch, seemingly the last single man in Swiftville, and Jackie, a corporate lawyer undercover on a mission to get a promotion at work. This is the 3rd book in the series, and you would get the most out of it by reading the other 2 first. Jackie's mission threatens the hospital and everyone in town. Will this sweet town convince her to help them instead?
December 23, 2021
Originally reviewed for Chick Lit Central (www.chicklitcentral.com)
It’s been a while since I’ve been back to Smithville! Having read the first two books in the series--In a Jam, and In a Pickle (links are to reviews), I felt like I’d slipped right back into small-town charm with familiar characters who’d left lasting impressions on me. I loved the introduction of Jackie into the midst. Everything she represents goes against everything that Smithville stands for: rural simplicity; rustic charm; idyllic living. She’s used to large cities, large corporations, and even larger corporate personalities that won’t take but a second to knock you off the ladder without another thought about it. She’s used to the rat race, so it was fun to see how different it could be for her while she tries to navigate what life is like in Smithville.
It was great getting to re-acquaint myself with the former characters I remember from the other books in the series, like Andie and Regina, as well as the mainstays of Smithville, like the regulars at the coffee shop, and two meddling biddies who love to let everyone know about what goes on behind the scenes in their small town. Everyone plays a part in helping Jackie figure out what might be best for Smithville Regional Hospital, and I felt really bad for the predicament she’s in. It’s hard feeling torn between doing what might be best for you, and what might be best for a group of small-town inhabitants.
Mitch’s story is riddled with some tough living that stems from his childhood. Despite that, he seems like he’s a great guy and would be a great match for Jackie, but he lets his past dictate his future, while Jackie tells herself that there could be no way she’d ever get attached to a small-town guy. It felt like there were quite a few hurdles to get over, and I loved the various events that showcase that--like the whole allergy scenario Jackie finds herself in with Mitch. It not only highlighted the vast differences they have, but also the apparent need they could develop for one another, if they’d only give it a chance. Will Jackie be able to walk away and stick to the goals she has set for herself for her entire life, or will she become another member of Smithville? That becomes the driving question, and it’s one that I was excited to learn more about. In a Nutshell was a fun, five-star read!
It’s been a while since I’ve been back to Smithville! Having read the first two books in the series--In a Jam, and In a Pickle (links are to reviews), I felt like I’d slipped right back into small-town charm with familiar characters who’d left lasting impressions on me. I loved the introduction of Jackie into the midst. Everything she represents goes against everything that Smithville stands for: rural simplicity; rustic charm; idyllic living. She’s used to large cities, large corporations, and even larger corporate personalities that won’t take but a second to knock you off the ladder without another thought about it. She’s used to the rat race, so it was fun to see how different it could be for her while she tries to navigate what life is like in Smithville.
It was great getting to re-acquaint myself with the former characters I remember from the other books in the series, like Andie and Regina, as well as the mainstays of Smithville, like the regulars at the coffee shop, and two meddling biddies who love to let everyone know about what goes on behind the scenes in their small town. Everyone plays a part in helping Jackie figure out what might be best for Smithville Regional Hospital, and I felt really bad for the predicament she’s in. It’s hard feeling torn between doing what might be best for you, and what might be best for a group of small-town inhabitants.
Mitch’s story is riddled with some tough living that stems from his childhood. Despite that, he seems like he’s a great guy and would be a great match for Jackie, but he lets his past dictate his future, while Jackie tells herself that there could be no way she’d ever get attached to a small-town guy. It felt like there were quite a few hurdles to get over, and I loved the various events that showcase that--like the whole allergy scenario Jackie finds herself in with Mitch. It not only highlighted the vast differences they have, but also the apparent need they could develop for one another, if they’d only give it a chance. Will Jackie be able to walk away and stick to the goals she has set for herself for her entire life, or will she become another member of Smithville? That becomes the driving question, and it’s one that I was excited to learn more about. In a Nutshell was a fun, five-star read!
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