Blog Archives
Real-Life Experiences
Afternoon Rebecca is a charming romance novel about two small-town Christians navigating online dating, faith, and vulnerability, set against the quirky and heartfelt backdrop of Indiana life. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
It came to me many years ago when I was a dishwasher for a local Italian restaurant. Originally, it was going to be called Fine Dining, and the ending was to be revealed: they were on a Love Connection-type show and the previous chapters were them recounting their stories on the show and agree to another date when done.
How did you go about crafting Jeff’s internal monologues to feel so authentic and relatable?
I thought back to when I was in the dating world and tried to remember how I’d think about the possibility of her having a male roommate or avoiding simple questions like how she got her nickname.
Did any of the quirky details, like the parrot’s Biblical recitations, come from personal experiences or observations?
Most of the conversation between Jeff and Rebecca was based, however loosely, on my real-life experiences, up to and including how she got the nickname, Afternoon Rebecca, and the song. “Can of Peas” is an actual song I wrote in 2020, and I accompany it by playing my ukulele.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
Being Afternoon Rebecca. It picks up the day after the date and goes through most of the summer. It’s her, her job, playing on the softball team, and her budding relationship, among other things. It should be out by the end of January. At least five books are expected in the series. The sequels are longer, all expected to come in well over 700 pages each, unlike the 140 or so of the first.
Author Links: GoodReads | X (Twitter) | Facebook | Instagram | Amazon
Get to know the couple as they learn about each other and enjoy a Tuesday afternoon dinner together. As they dine, Rebecca’s best friend and roommate, Maxine “Max Little, anxiously awaits updates from Afternoon Rebecca as she scopes out the potential love of her life.
Set in a fictional county in Central Indiana, Jeff and Rebecca’s tale is more than just a love story. Hear the narratives of the restaurant’s staff as their many short stories are woven together in an effort for Jeff67 and Afternoon Rebecca to have their happily ever after.
Twilight’s Hidden Truth (The Winds of Change)
At first glance, Twyla appears to be the perfect daughter in the idyllic Cameron family, but beneath the surface, her world is unraveling. The peace her family once knew is shattered when a biker gang disrupts their lives, and things only worsen when her brother is drafted to Vietnam. The perfect life she had always known quickly descends into chaos. Amidst the turmoil, Twyla crosses paths with Caleb Silverson, a handsome and charismatic celebrity racer. As she is drawn into the glamorous Hollywood lifestyle, Twyla begins to wonder if Caleb might be the key to her happiness.
Twilight’s Hidden Truth by Rachel Valencourt is a compelling novel about self-discovery and finding one’s passion when life takes an unexpected turn. The book is written from Twyla’s perspective, which I found particularly engaging. The detailed descriptions of the 1970s—from the music and fashion to the social tensions—create an authentic atmosphere that makes Twyla’s experiences relatable and engaging. The author’s talent for creating complex, multi-dimensional characters is evident, particularly in the way Twyla is portrayed. Her internal struggles, torn between family loyalty and the desire for independence, resonate deeply, making her a character that readers can root for. The romantic subplot involving Twyla and the celebrity racer Caleb Silverson feels somewhat underdeveloped and rushed. This relationship, which could have provided deeper insight into Twyla’s character and her evolving sense of self, instead serves more as a convenient plot device. Valencourt maintains tension and keeps the reader invested in Twyla’s journey.
Twilight’s Hidden Truth is a compelling and thought-provoking read that will appeal to fans of historical fiction and coming-of-age stories. It is particularly well-suited for readers interested in exploring the complexities of the 1970s and the impact of societal change on individual lives. Valencourt’s evocative writing and nuanced characterizations make this a novel worth diving into.
Pages: 360 | ASIN : B0CTFXG3BD
WHISPERS IN THE VINEYARD: A NOVEL
Whispers in the Vineyard by Justin K. Kojok elegantly weaves a tale set in the idyllic village of Domeabra, a place marked by an enduring rivalry between two vineyard families. This novel masterfully portrays the intricate and heartfelt winemaking process, a craft deeply embedded in centuries of tradition. At the heart of the story is Loom, the poised heir to the Daanua vineyard. Upon her return to Domeabra, Loom embarks on a journey to discover her heritage and the time-honored traditions of viticulture. The plot thickens when she encounters Feika, the charming progeny of the rival vineyard, igniting a romance that blossoms organically, reminiscent of the grapevines surrounding them.
Kojok’s prose is richly descriptive, effectively transporting the reader to the vibrant festivities and aromatic world of winemaking. His skillful use of language, as seen in phrases like, “And seventeen minutes in Domeabra wasn’t just a period; it was an event, an atmospheric spectacle, an interval romance between the land and the heavens,” creates a vivid, almost mystical portrayal of Domeabra. This enchanting setting forms the perfect backdrop for the novel’s central romance. The relationship between Feika and Loom is crafted with a delicate touch, their initial tentative interactions gradually evolving into a deep connection. Their story is not just a personal triumph but symbolizes a harmonious blending of two historically opposed families. The couple’s mature approach to past conflicts and their shared ambition to create a united wine brand illustrates a progressive outlook, bringing prosperity and unity to Domeabra.
Kojok’s narrative is more than a love story; it’s an ode to preserving traditions and lore. Whispers in the Vineyard resonates with themes of heritage, unity, and the enduring power of love, making it a compelling read for those who appreciate fiction imbued with cultural richness and romantic intrigue.
Pages: 245 | ASIN : B0CTW8F2YX
LITERARY TITAN 