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Laugh to Keep From Crying
In a Pickle follows a man trying to find his way out of a business deal gone wrong and a reverend determined to help solve the mystery that surrounds his fate. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration for the setup for the story is found in one of the quotes from the book: The Reverend Sweetie Bird Charles declares, “…it taught me one lesson for sure. It sure enough drilled into my noggin not to count my chickens before they hatched, even when I could see them eggs in the nest what seemed to be tucked away safe and sound. Yes, sir, someone comed to rob the henhouse, and I didn’t hear a cluck or a cock-a-doodle-do or nothing.”
Your story is a wonderful blend of mystery and humor. How do you manage to create a successful blend of drama and levity?
I think it’s probably the sarcasm and the absurdity of the situations that The Reverend Sweetie Bird Charles finds herself in that make for the levity. I write from my experiences (not necessarily those of The Reverend) and have learned through a lot of livin’ that life can throw crazy things anybody’s way. Sometimes we laugh to keep from crying… and sometimes it’s just damned funny.
Do you have a favorite among your colorful cast of characters?
Do I have a favorite? Not really. Do other people have a favorite? Most definitely. And the winner is: Agnes! People have shared with me that they love Agnes because she says what they have always thought but were afraid to say out loud. Agnes becomes their spokesperson, as it were. I think that a lot of people have an ‘Agnes’ in their mind—sometimes they acknowledge that entity and give her space, but most of the time they don’t due to societal constraints. The fact that she tends to lay things out clearly and minces no words makes her a popular gal.
Is this the first book in a series? What are you currently working on?
The next book in the series is available on Amazon and is titled The Church of Unrealized Fantasies—it’s the continuing story of The Reverend Sweetie Bird Charles, Agnes, Mama, and assorted characters we’ve met in In a Pickle and a host of new friends as she stumbles upon Destiny. Yes, I meant to capitalize the word…Destiny. Read the book and find out.
I am currently working on Book 3 in The Reverend Sweetie Bird series… but I never tell what I’m working on until I’m finished. Suffice it to say, the adventure continues.
Author links: Website
Charles Madison Montgomery Washington finds himself in a mess of trouble after his business dealings lead him to the Gray Bar Hotel. As events unfold, his fate becomes shrouded in mystery, leaving questions about the whereabouts of valuable diamonds. Shorty and Bruno are on the hunt for answers, while Dick E. has his version of events, and Father Murphy, seated in the confessional, only wants to keep his wayward flock together. What sets the Reverend apart is her keen insight into slick-talking folks.
With the assistance of Mama and Agnes, the voices that some consider madness, the Reverend might be the only one capable of piecing together this convoluted tale. Can she untangle the threads of this crazy quilt and shed light on the truth?
In a Pickle
In a Pickle, by Marilyn Whitehorse, emerges as a novel that deftly balances humor with gravitas, intertwining the life of Charles Madison Montgomery Washington with that of the enigmatic reverend. Whitehorse crafts a narrative that is both engaging and poignant, offering a window into the complexities of human existence. The story navigates the reverend’s journey alongside characters such as Mama and Agnes, delving into a labyrinthine mystery that she alone seems poised to unravel.
Whitehorse’s narrative technique is noteworthy for its originality, maintaining the reader’s engagement with a well-paced plot and relatable themes. The book thoughtfully addresses subjects such as mental health and homelessness, striking a chord with readers through its authentic portrayal of universal human challenges. The reverend, as the central narrator, brings a unique perspective to the tale, her voice threading through the narrative and guiding the reader through a series of entangled events. Her pretense as a reverend to unearth the mystery adds an intriguing layer to the storyline, blending elements of intrigue and personal struggle.
What stands out in Whitehorse’s writing is the way it resonates with the reader, creating a narrative that feels grounded in reality. The blend of humor, mystery, and social commentary is handled with finesse, inviting readers to engage deeply with the characters and their journeys. The book’s exploration of significant topics like mental health and homelessness is handled with sensitivity, enhancing the story’s impact. These themes, combined with a dose of humor and a compelling mystery, create a rich tapestry that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
In a Pickle, by Marilyn Whitehorse, is a novel that captivates readers with its unique style and heartfelt storytelling. It’s a story that invites reflection, laughter, and a deeper understanding of the human condition, making it a meaningful read for those who appreciate a narrative that weaves humor with the more profound aspects of life.
Pages : 284 | ASIN : B0CPTKFKFH
LITERARY TITAN 