Pity Prank

Pity #8

by Whitney Dineen

What happens when a quirkier than normal girl meets a hunky doctor from New York?

It’s not that I have subpar intelligence, or that I’m a total weirdo. In fact, I would consider myself kind, creative, and an all-in-all great catch—if you can get past a few peculiarities.

I love soft things. ALL soft things, and I surround myself with them to help self-sooth my way through the day. I have very particular opinions about sand, aluminum foil, and gum snappers. You wouldn’t believe how many men find this odd. In short, being on the spectrum has not exactly done wonders for my love life.

Enter Dr. Thomas Culpepper. Never in a million years would I have predicted someone like him would move to tiny little Elk Lake, Wisconsin. Then he gets sent to my photography studio to have his picture taken. I misunderstood the assignment, and instead of taking a boring old headshot like the hospital wanted, I forced him to take sexy pirate photos.
As far as meet cutes go, it was awkward. I won’t even mention the baby oil …

Pity Prank is a laugh-out-loud, small town romantic comedy featuring misunderstandings galore, a tiny bit of fake dating, a lot of fuzzy sweaters and socks, and oh, yeah, some sexy pirate photos.

Perfect for fans of Hallmark vibes. Book eight in a feel-good series of standalones.

*** For fans of The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang

Genres: Contemporary, Romance

315 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 30, 2026

About the author

Whitney loves to laugh, play with her kids, bake, and eat french fries -- not always in that order.

She's a USA Today Bestselling & multi-award-winning author of romantic comedies, non-fiction humor, thrillers, and middle reader fiction. Basically, she writes whatever the voices in her head tell her to.

She lives in the beautiful Pacific Northwest with her husband, Jimmy, where they raise children, chickens, and organic vegetables.

Gold Medal winner at the International Readers' Favorite Awards 2017.

Silver medal winner at the International Readers' Favorite Awards, 2015, 2016, 2019.


Finalist RONE Awards, 2016.

Finalist at the IRFA 2016, 2017, 2019

Finalist at the Book Excellence Awards and Top Shelf Book Awards, 2017

Reviews

[Claudia, Cmarie927 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another fun edition to this series

If you have followed this series, you know how special the people are in this small town, and Finley is definitely a favorite!

I found this representation of a woman on the Autism spectrum quite authentic and engaging. The way she approaches her unique qualities is both resilient and compelling, and I appreciate the way the author allows a reader to connect with her.

Thomas is especially equipped to see the best qualities in Finley, and I loved their connection. While this isn't a very steamy read, it is a good, emotionally addictive read, and one I recommend.

I do suggest reading this series in order to get the most from the characters. I cannot wait for the next one!

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every book in this series makes me fall in love with this town more and more; the setting, the previous couples that keep popping up to let you know how they’re doing, the perfectly flawed new characters that we meet in each one. This couple might be my favorite one yet. I loved how empathetic Thomas was with Finley and how he wanted to take care of her. I loved being in her head, getting to know her quirks and how they came to be. And who could forget Bernadette, the eggbound chicken in henopause?!! Another fantastic addition to the series! If you like sweet romances with fun characters, lots of humor, and a happy ending with plenty of chemistry but no spice, then this is the series for you!

[Bookish_Fantasy_Queen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my honest review of Pity Prank

I honestly enjoyed this book from the start. I liked Finley from the previous book, Pity Please, and was so happy she’d get her chance at love too.

She is such a kind and quirky character. I loved her neurodivergent representation and felt this was handled with great care. Being someone with OCD I appreciate when anything on the spectrum gets attention/representation in books.

Thomas(Tommy) is also relatable as someone who feels lost in his current career and seeks something more calm and stable. Mental health is so important! I liked that he had the courage to move to a new town and start a new life.

Their meet-cute was hilarious and will definitely be a funny story to tell for years. I loved how their relationship progressed throughout the book and how well he understood her.

This is book 8 in the Pity Series, but the magic is very much still there in Elk Lake. If you love the idea of a compassionate, hot doctor who falls or the quirky artist then this is for you!!

Thank you Whitney Dineen for this ARC

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review 

Antecdotal thoughts while reading 

8th book in the series

I have read 4 other books in this series this far.   

Based on the dedication page, I am hoping this book has a neurodivergent main character.

Finley - photographer going through growing pains

Thomas - picking up and moving from the Big Apple, ER doctor

Top two floors?? Wowza!!

I like that Vivienne is an artsy person in a family of doctors.  I hope her parents supported this over the years.   Med school is not for all people.   We all should be allowed to follow our individual passions.

I love that Finley doesn't hide her uniqueness and even calls it her "sparkle."

"Tommy", I think you got yourself a bestie whether you wanted one or not.  😂

Oh Finley... maybe clarifying which Margaret would have helped in this situation.  🤣 boyfriend 🤣

☠️ 🏴‍☠️ 🦜 🚢 📷  🤣🤣 I can not stop laughing!!!!

Smoke show 😂

Finley's nap dream 😆

Of course you are Thomas.  April fools!

🧦🧺 24 cycles.  Not more, not less.

I want to see this photo shoot play out on a digital picture frame. Not just the good shots either.

Date/non-date

Harassment is a definite 💯 for Constance.

Uh-oh, you are going to buy her car aren't you??

Henapause????  😄

Thomas, that was a VERY bold question!!

I feel you on timed tests.   I may have even had a minor panic attack at the DMV over theirs as well...and I was 26!

CMO offer...it is what you have on your goal list.

But,  you just lied to Finley.  How does that feel???

Busted!!! One lie reset you back in the negatives. 🐕🏠

Welp, you have scorned a woman, so good luck on her not calling an end to things too soon.  

You ghosted??  Bad move!!

Are they all crosseyed pirate photos now??

Finley, amazing job stepping out of your comfort zone and knowing what tools you needed in order to do it. 


I will admit, I laughed a ton in the first 50 pages, but after that only a few smiles.  It was a good book and I continue to enjoy this author.   The com part of rom-com came first, then the rom started.

[Curtis E Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever gotten so wrapped up in a community story that you forget things like time, food, sleep, or how far along you are? Well, all those came to light with Pity Prank. Whitney Dineen has me so wrapped up in Elk Lake that I did not realize this is Book 8 of 9 in the Pity series. But wait, before you get the wrong idea, let me explain.

Whitney Dineen has an amazing way of painting a canvas in the mind with the surroundings of her story. So much so that you can see it even with your eyes open and the book closed. The author is relatable with her words, and that only makes you feel more like you are listening to neighbors, friends or family members. Whitney’s storyline moves between lightness one moment and gripping the next.

If you have followed this series at all, you have met Finley. Elk Lake is a bustling community, and she has definitely been a member of the active participants. Thomas is just a wonderful bonus to the group...hahaha. Actually, these two were made for each other, and without really knowing it, they knew. When a man can recognize and appreciate a woman’s peculiarities (Whitney used that word), he knows. Do you get what I’m saying? The author spoke of this story being very special to her. There are a number of facets presented in the story, and all of them are heartfelt and heartwarming. Some are easily present while others are discovered through gentle moments, or tense exchanges, and others are shared when the moments warrant them to be. The core of all these is the understanding, importance, support and love of family and community.

Whitney not only brings certain subject lines front and center but delicately folds education and information about those actions into the story. Pity Prank will have you laughing from the beginning and will fill your heart with warmth throughout. What started as an oops, definitely turned into a delightful story with a very happy ending.

Get ready for a fun roller-coaster ride. All the stars Whitney!

[Kelli M. Stowers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved every book in this series, but Pity Prank may be my new favorite.

Finley and Thomas have the sweetest relationship, no matter how awkwardly it began. As far as meet cutes go, that one was pretty awkward! I loved that they both had no idea what was really going on and were mostly able to laugh about it once they figured it out.

I appreciate the neurodivergence/autism representation in this story. It helped me understand myself a little more as well as many others in my life. The dive into the thought processes that Finley deals with on a daily basis as well as noting the differences between neurodivergent characters on the same spectrum was so well done.

I really enjoyed seeing Thomas figure out who he is and what he wants in life. The growth in his family relationships was especially refreshing, too.

This strangers to lovers, fake dating, small town romance is full of humor and heart. It is the 8th book in the Pity Series and can be read as a standalone.
I have loved every book in this series, but Pity Prank may be my new favorite.

Finley and Thomas have the sweetest relationship, no matter how awkwardly it began. As far as meet cutes go, that one was pretty awkward! I loved that they both had no idea what was really going on and were mostly able to laugh about it once they figured it out.

I appreciate the neurodivergence/autism representation in this story. It helped me understand myself a little more as well as many others in my life. The dive into the thought processes that Finley deals with on a daily basis as well as noting the differences between neurodivergent characters on the same spectrum was so well done.

I really enjoyed seeing Thomas figure out who he is and what he wants in life. The growth in his family relationships was especially refreshing, too.

This strangers to lovers, fake dating, small town romance is full of humor and heart. It is the 8th book in the Pity Series and can be read as a standalone.

[Koren | the_blue_eyed_bluestocking · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guaranteed to make you laugh!

Confession- I read this on vacation with my family and as they were all sleeping, I was trying not to wake anyone with my giggles while reading this hilarious story. I'm not sure the last time I read a story that had me laughing nearly the entire time and I absolutely loved every minute of it!

The colossal misunderstanding that begins the story is so epic- a new-to-town, respectable doctor shows up for a head shot and finds out the hard way that he was booked for a *very* different kind of shoot. Everything that happened from that moment was comedy gold. I will never think of baby oil in the same way again.

But what started out as a mistake turned into real interest. I love that dear Dr. Thomas is so drawn to the unique town favorite, Finley. Even in a romcom, I love a little grit, and Finley's path to a finding out she is on the spectrum and the fall out from it was handled tenderly. She was absolutely championed by the author and I loved her throughout the story. The romance was fantastic and a little flawed... just how I like it.

My one regret is I needed more story!

Pity Prank is a closed door, kissing only romance. For those who prefer to know- there is light innuendo and the FMC is a boudoir photographer. It fits perfectly into the sweet romance category. Happy reading!

I received a complimentary copy of the author's story to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Carmela Agatha Enriquez (agathafeelingg.reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

📖 ARC REVIEW 📖

Thank you @whitneydineenauthor for an early copy of Pity Prank. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 🤍

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Release date: March 30th, 2026

🛑Read on with caution; review may contain spoilers🛑

Pity Prank by Whitney Dineen was such a charming and refreshing romance that completely won me over!

The story follows Thomas, an ER doctor who relocates to Elk Lake after burning out from the intensity of working in New York, and Finley, a talented photographer on the autism spectrum. Their meet-cute alone had me hooked. It was absolutely hilarious! Finley is hired to take Thomas’s professional headshots, but due to a misunderstanding, she ends up staging a boudoir photoshoot instead. It was such a unique and memorable way to kick off their story.

What I loved most, though, was how Thomas treated Finley. He made her feel safe, respected, and truly heard, embracing her quirks instead of trying to change her. Their dynamic felt warm, supportive, and quietly meaningful beneath all the humor.

I also really appreciated how Dineen handled Finley’s autism. It was portrayed with care and sensitivity, adding depth to her character without ever feeling heavy-handed or overwhelming.

Overall, this was a delightful, feel-good romance that balanced humor and heart beautifully. Definitely a fun read I’d recommend.

[AJ's Book ReMarks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whitney Dineen's "Pity Prank" is the eighth book in the series, but new readers can enjoy it on its own. At first, I expected another one of Whitney's wild stories—if you remember the squirrels, you'll know what I mean. As I read on, though, the story surprised me with an unexpected twist. The main character, Finley Harper, owns Happy Snaps Photography. She is artistic, autistic, and neurodivergent. Finley moved to Elk Lake three years ago and has grown her business since then. Her biggest clients are Margaret and Bob Rogers, who book boudoir sessions.

Dr. Thomas Culpepper is a 36-year-old emergency room doctor from New York City. He is moving to Elk Lake for a slower pace of life, leaving behind his parents, Jason and Morgan, and his sister Vivienne. His father is a retired cardiologist, and his sister is a well-known artist.

Constance Brucker, Elk Lake Hospital Administrator, was referred to Finley by Margaret, a colleague, who arranged a photo session for Dr. Culpepper upon his arrival.

What begins as a funny misunderstanding turns into a touching story that will stick with you. Kudos to Ms. Dineen for another great story.

"Embroider on your sash, "Flakey Finley."

"Henapause" "Cross-eye Priate"

[Chelsea · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun one, and the way they met was so good. I really liked Finley and how self-aware she was, even if she struggled with confidence. She had great interactions with everyone, and I thought it was sweet that Thomas noticed that she was different but didn't find it off-putting because of his sister. They were so great together! There were some funny parts, though I was a little bummed the big prank didn't land because of everything else going on - I had been looking forward to it! But I loved how accepting his parents were of Finley, and how they warmed to her so quickly. The dialogue was snappy and fun, and the characters from other stories were incorporated well (fun cameos if you've read the other books, but not necessary to already know them). A fun, quick read!

Content: mild innuendo


I received this book free from the publisher/author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This small town is just filled with the best people. When Thomas moves to town to work in the ER after a high stress/fast paced New York, he meets Finley for a photoshoot that is hilarious because of a misunderstanding.

Finley and Thomas are such a good match! Finley is on the Autism spectrum and Thomas recognizes this even way before she tells him because his sister is also on the spectrum. (of course the women are different in how their worlds work and that's shown in the story). But I love that he never makes her feel that she is annoying less than because of her diagnosis. The way his parents embrace Finley once they know is refreshing when you get a sense of how they might come off initially.

[Lisa Albright · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's impossible not to love Finley, and as a special needs school bus driver that has students with autism, and someone with ADHD I greatly appreciate the neurodiverse representation. Whitney wrote this love story with sensitivity and care and I loved everything about it. Thomas is wonderful and the way they just fit together was a beautiful thing. So much humor, acceptance, love, and kindness abounds in this special little town and if you haven't read this series yet, you need to move it to the top of your TBR for the feel good vibes and positive energy.

I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Janilyn Kocher · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thomas is a harried ER doc who moves to Elk Lake WI for a slower pace of life. Instead he’s being harassed by his boss who can’t take no for an answer.
Finley is a quirky photographer who gets the setup with Thomas all wrong.
That was hysterically funny to read especially with the oil!!
I fell off the couch laughing when Finley sent them to Thomas’ boss.
I struggled to relate to Finley beyond her being from a small farming community in IL.
She and Thomas were sweet together and the ending is charming.
Thanks Whitney Dineen for the advance copy.

[Marti · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a Whitney Dineen fan. I look forward to her new publications like a little kid at Christmas and this one did not disappoint.

I enjoyed the love story and perfect ending. The male main character was incredibly empathetic and understanding. The supporting characters were fun and realistic

What made this book stand out was Whitney’s deft treatment of the challenges someone who is neurodivergent faces. This part of the storyline has stuck with me for days.

Thanks again to the author for an advance copy of this book. Can’t wait for the last book on the series.

[Lorraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

pity I finished this so quickly!

Started reading last night, them made myself pause for sleep and life. Visiting a daughter and she had scheduled a spa treatment before we decided on the visit, so I've sat in her car reading for the last 2.5 hours enjoying life in Elk Lake with Finley and Thomas. I've really enjoyed everyone I've met in Elk Lake, their stories are sweet, funny, and engaging, and Pity Prank continued the enjoyment. Looking forward to the next installment, coming in September!

[Lynn Hyman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not What I Expected - Even Better

This author's books are the best, so I was pleasantly surprised when this book was even better than I expected and dealt with a surprising topic. Finley is so darn lovable and on the spectrum. Thomas is an ER doctor who has just moved from NYC to a small Wisconsin town. Total culture shock with more than one surprise thrown in. I laughed out loud numerous times. All delicate topics were handled carefully and graciously. It's a great story from start to finish.

[Sheri P · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pity Prank is a cute installment of the Pity series set in Elk Lake, Wisconsin. Filled with humor and a sweet romance this was a quick read. Dineen does such a great job with character development, I really liked Finley and Thomas. I also enjoyed how the author portrayed the struggles of neurodivergent individuals.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read an early copy, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Alicia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pity Prank is book 8 in the Elk Lake/Pity series. While the previous books had a more fun and carefree rom-com feel, Pity Prank touches on a more serious note. Whitney manages to bring to light and educate the reader on challenges many people face on a daily basis. Learning to accept ourselves, blemishes and all, allows us to accept others and know that no one is perfect. Great story and well done Whitney!

[Pascale’s*ARC,Unwind,Read,Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story. I didn’t read all of the books in the series and certainly not in chronological order, yet I had no trouble reading it s a stand-alone. We are quite “neuro spicy” in our family as well, so this touched close to home. It’s relatively “clean”, although some of the innuendos and comments are a bit borderline. There is no swearing. It was a fun read with a few moments that made me laugh. I recommend it.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whitney Dineen’s latest Pity book is a delight. This small town and its lovely citizens are a great foil for her current romance series. Findley and Thomas’s are made for one another. I loved how appreciative they each were of the other and how devoted to and fond of their families they each are. This story was the perfect sweet escape I needed from our world’s harsh realities.

[Natasha Bovee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finley and Thomas had such a sweet relationship. I loved that he didn’t see her as weird like she thought. To him her differences and quirks made her more special and made him want to know more. Finley had a tough time growing up and finding out about her autism at a difficult age. She needed people around her to know and love her for who she is, not what she isn’t.

[Veronica Kirkpatrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

A super cute romance with a sparkly girl at it’s center and a leading man worthy of any rom-com. Life is too short to be beige!

[nikkyireads · Rating 3 out of 5]

A cute, sweet and quirky small town romance.

✨️ Rom-com
✨️ Small Town
✨️ Fake Dating
✨️ Autism + Neurodivergent Rep
✨️ Dual POV

[Taryn · Rating 2 out of 5]

I appreciate a well conceived neurodivergent main character, but I found the story itself lacking and the writing quality mediocre.

[Rebecca Torres · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have liked this series, but this one wasn’t my favorite.

[Cj · Rating 5 out of 5]

entering from the start

A wonderful fun read. Love the Pity series. I love that these books reintroduce characters from previous books, in series. Can be read in sequence or standalone

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