Afternoon Rebecca is a charming, slice-of-life romance about Jeff Linn and Rebecca Firkins, two small-town Christians navigating the world of online dating. It chronicles their awkward but heartfelt journey from their first messages on Church Chat to a tentative first meeting at a restaurant in Centerville. The novel explores themes of vulnerability, faith, and the small moments that build meaningful connections, all set against the backdrop of quaint Indiana towns.

The writing is lighthearted and rooted in the quirks of Midwestern life. Kizman’s prose shines in its humor and detail, particularly in how he captures Jeff’s nervous, rambling internal monologue. For example, the scene where Jeff debates his shoelace while waiting for Rebecca is both endearing and relatable: “Not wanting to trip like a klutz when meeting Rebecca, he stands… drops down to one knee, and begins to retie his laces.” It perfectly sets up their whimsical first interaction, with Rebecca jokingly addressing his kneeling as a marriage proposal. These vivid moments breathe life into the characters and pull you into their world.

The depth given to Jeff and Rebecca’s internal struggles is something I liked, though I did find that the first few chapters focus a bit more on description. Jeff’s preparation for the date, for instance, delves into vivid details like his parrot’s Biblical recitations and his neighbors’ lawn habits. While these moments add color and charm, I felt like they slow the momentum compared to the lively dialogue-driven scenes at the restaurant.

What truly impressed me were the novel’s heartfelt observations about faith and relationships. Rebecca’s backstory, including her reflections on trust after a failed relationship and her connection with her church community, was beautifully handled. These moments, coupled with the light humor sprinkled throughout, make the story resonate deeply.

Afternoon Rebecca is a delightful read for anyone who enjoys wholesome, faith-based romance with a touch of humor. Its small-town charm and lovable characters will appeal to fans of Nicholas Sparks but with a more grounded, quirky vibe. This book is especially perfect for readers looking for a cozy escape that celebrates the joys and challenges of forging authentic human connections.

pages: 143 | ISBN: 196623905X