Teeth in a Pickle Jar: A Novel: Love Is Closer Than You Think

Parental upheaval, death, surprise love connection and an untimely pregnancy deliver realism and emotion for a `can't put the book down' read. Italian heritage, cyber romantic interlude, and an unexpected pregnancy are all key factors in H. B. Milligan's "Teeth in a Pickle Jar". Meagan Gigliardi grew up with her mom's strict Italian heritage. Dreams of joining the Peace Corps were quashed and the regret in not following her heart remained. Zoom now to one foolish night to remove the `virgin' status and you have an unexpected pregnancy, a rash decision to marry this unattractive rich boy and a whole lotta trouble from the mother-in-law. Yet Megan slowly begins to place her life the way it should be all due to an unknown man she's been communicating with over the Internet for a web design. Miss Milligan adds the realistic pain of death, decisions to make, and a fantastic love relationship to round out this highly recommended novel. Although not exactly a Danielle Steele read, Milligan does have that same flair to draw her readers into her character's situations and emotions. Makes for an amazing winter read with a feel good experience throughout. The first person point of view only enhances the novel and the superb beginning with correlating ending- an open letter-adds authenticity to Meagan Gigliardi. Lea Schizas - AllBooks Reviewer

I wasn't sure whether I would like this book when I started to read it, but as I went on, I was hooked. The story -- an older woman meeting a younger man on the Internet and falling in love -- might sound a tad unrealistic except that this was based on the author's own life. I read that this is how she and her (younger) husband really met. Wow! I liked how the main character, Megan, evolves from an obedient, meek young girl afraid to upset her neurotic "Mamma," to a strong, assertive woman who makes difficult -- daring even -- choices in her search of happiness and love. Although some serious matters are raised in the book, humor is the driving force of this novel. Mamma's idiosyncrasies, for example, are so irritating I could punch her in the face, but the author presents them in such a funny way, I couldn't help laughing through much of the book. I recommended this novel to my book club and all those who like romance fiction / chick lit.

If you were intimidated by your mother, and married, or thought of marrying a much younger man, you will enjoy this read. The book is well-written and funny - an easy read - believable, and will appeal to many women. As the author put it so well: "This book is dedicated to all those who think out of the box, walk the unbeaten path, don't crumble in the face of adversity, and believe in second chances." Those who would love "Teeth in a Pickle Jar" are infinite.

I like light reading and this novel was great. Despite a sprinkling of sad moments it was mostly funny and I had many a good laugh. I didn't want it to end and wonder whether there'll be a sequel? I am recommending this to all my female friends. Kristen, Oakland CA

A good women's book. It's fast-paced and, once you get into it, you want to know what happens to the characters at the end. It's the kind of book that makes you laugh out loud, chuckle, but also dry a tear or two. I'd reccomend it to women of all ages.