We’ve all had those moments – choking on a mouthful of food, tripping over our own feet, or blurting out something mortifying in front of a crush. But for Delphie Bookham, the socially-anxious protagonist of Kirsty Greenwood’s delightful new novel “The Love of My Afterlife,” an embarrassing death by microwaveable burger is just the beginning of her problems.
Greenwood serves up a whimsical romantic comedy that blends the afterlife bureaucracy of “The Good Place” with the urgency of a ticking clock romance. The result is a heartwarming tale of self-discovery, found family, and learning to embrace life—even when you’re technically dead.
Plot Overview
When Delphie suddenly finds herself in a launderette-themed afterlife lobby, she’s mortified to be wearing her ratty “Sparkle and Shine” nightie in front of the most gorgeous man she’s ever seen. Their instant connection is electric, but before they can exchange more than first names, a mix-up sends the dreamy Jonah back to Earth.
Merritt, Delphie’s quirky “Afterlife Therapist,” offers her a deal: return to Earth for 10 days to find and kiss Jonah, or face eternal death. It seems like the perfect second chance at life and love. But as Delphie embarks on her mission, she finds herself opening up to new friendships, rediscovering her passion for art, and developing unexpected feelings for her grumpy downstairs neighbor Cooper.
As the clock ticks down, Delphie must decide what – and who – she truly wants, before her time runs out for good.
Character Analysis
Delphie: A Relatable Heroine
Delphie starts off as a classic rom-com heroine—socially awkward, closed off from meaningful relationships, and living a small, safe life. But Greenwood imbues her with depth and nuance that makes her journey compelling. Delphie’s arc from fearful isolation to embracing vulnerability and connection feels earned and inspiring.
Cooper: More Than Meets the Eye
At first glance, Cooper seems like the typical brooding love interest. But as layers of his character are peeled back, we discover a man grappling with grief and writer’s block. His gradual softening towards Delphie is sweet to witness.
Merritt: Scene-Stealing Supporting Character
Bubbly, romance novel-obsessed Merritt nearly steals the show with her manic energy and fourth-wall-breaking commentary on romance tropes. Her reveal as Cooper’s long-lost twin sister is a delightful twist.
The Supporting Cast
From curmudgeonly Mr. Yoon to boisterous Aled the librarian, Greenwood populates her world with a lovable cast of oddballs who become Delphie’s chosen family. Their group dynamic brings warmth and humor to the story.
Themes and Motifs
Embracing Life
The central theme is learning to truly live, rather than merely exist. Delphie’s quest forces her out of her comfort zone and teaches her to open herself up to new experiences and relationships.
Found Family
As Delphie connects with her neighbors and coworkers, she creates a support network that becomes as vital as any blood relation. This chosen family gives her the courage to pursue love and follow her dreams.
Grief and Letting Go
Cooper’s struggle with his sister’s death parallels Delphie’s journey to let go of past hurts and move forward. The novel sensitively explores how grief can paralyze us, and the importance of honoring loved ones by living fully.
Art as Self-Expression
Delphie rediscovers her passion for drawing, using it as a way to connect with others and process her emotions. The climactic art show represents her growth and willingness to be vulnerable.
Writing Style and Tone
Greenwood’s prose sparkles with wit and charm. She has a knack for snappy dialogue and humorous observations that keep the pages turning. The first-person narration allows us intimate access to Delphie’s neurotic but endearing inner monologue.
While the premise is fantastical, Greenwood grounds the story in relatable emotions and experiences. She strikes a deft balance between laugh-out-loud comedy and poignant introspection.
The pacing clips along briskly, with Delphie’s 10-day deadline creating urgency. However, Greenwood still takes time for quiet character moments that add depth to the relationships.
Strengths
Humor
Greenwood has a gift for comedy, from clever wordplay to absurdist situations. Delphie’s social awkwardness and self-deprecating narration produce plenty of chuckles.
Character Growth
The character arcs feel natural and earned. Watching Delphie slowly open herself up to life’s possibilities is deeply satisfying.
Romance
The central love story develops at a perfect slow-burn pace. Cooper and Delphie’s verbal sparring crackles with chemistry that evolves into genuine tenderness.
Found Family Dynamics
The colorful cast of side characters adds heart and humor. Their growing bond as a makeshift family is touching to witness.
Potential Weaknesses
Convenient Plot Devices
Some readers may find the “10 day deadline to find true love” premise a bit contrived. Merritt’s ability to manipulate earthly events also requires some suspension of disbelief.
Pacing in Final Act
The climactic car crash and coma storyline feel slightly rushed compared to the leisurely pace of earlier chapters.
Underdeveloped Antagonists
While Gen and Ryan’s bullying provides motivation for Delphie’s isolation, they remain somewhat two-dimensional as characters.
Comparisons to Other Works
Fans of Emily Henry’s witty contemporary romances will find much to love here. The afterlife bureaucracy and found family themes are reminiscent of “The Good Place.”
Readers who enjoyed the magical realism romance of Josie Silver’s “One Day in December” will appreciate the fated connection between Delphie and Jonah.
Greenwood’s previous novels like “Yours Truly” similarly feature quirky heroines finding themselves through unexpected circumstances. However, “The Love of My Afterlife” shows noticeable growth in emotional depth and character complexity.
Target Audience
This novel will appeal primarily to fans of contemporary romance and women’s fiction. The touches of magical realism and afterlife comedy broaden its potential audience.
Readers who enjoy:
- Quirky, reluctant heroines
- Grumpy/sunshine romance dynamics
- Found family narratives
- British humor
- Light fantasy elements in contemporary settings
Will find much to love in “The Love of My Afterlife.”
Impact and Relevance
While the story is pure escapist fun on the surface, it contains nuggets of wisdom about truly living life to the fullest. In our increasingly isolated modern world, Delphie’s journey to open herself up to human connection feels especially poignant.
The novel gently encourages readers to examine their own lives—are we merely existing, or are we embracing all life has to offer? It’s a timely reminder to cherish our relationships and pursue our passions before it’s too late.
Conclusion
“The Love of My Afterlife” is a charming, laugh-out-loud funny romance with surprising emotional heft. Kirsty Greenwood has crafted a magical story about second chances—in life, in love, and in believing in yourself.
While the fantastical premise requires some suspension of disbelief, the core emotional journey rings true. Watching Delphie blossom from a fearful recluse into someone willing to take risks and open her heart is deeply satisfying.
The colorful cast of supporting characters adds warmth and humor, creating a found family readers will long to join. Cooper’s growth from brooding neighbor to swoon-worthy love interest is equally compelling.
Greenwood’s witty prose and knack for comedy keep the pages turning, even as she tackles weightier themes of grief and self-actualization. The result is a perfect beach read with just enough substance to linger in your thoughts.
Ultimately, “The Love of My Afterlife” is a joyful reminder to embrace life’s possibilities and open ourselves to meaningful connections—because you never know when your time might run out.
For its blend of humor and heart, memorable characters, and uplifting message about choosing to truly live, “The Love of My Afterlife” earns a hearty recommendation. Kirsty Greenwood has delivered a magical, moving romance that will leave readers smiling long after the final page.
