Velvet
Drawn to the heart of a well-told story, I believe beauty lives in what lingers—in a phrase, a light-filled corner, a feeling you can’t quite name. Whether writing my novel VELVET or designing a home, I’ve found that beauty lives in the quiet care we give to the things we create.
Velvet, Heather’s Debut Novel
Velvet Underwood doesn’t know much about her father, Diamond Jim, other than Mama’s relentless bragging that every woman in town desired him, he smelled like hard work and pine, and she was conceived in the back of his Cadillac. She knows Mama’s heart and confidence were shattered when he disappeared in the middle of the night all those years ago. But Velvet was just a baby then. She’s 15 going on 16 now and wants to know what Mama’s not telling her.
Velvet is changed forever when she stumbles upon Mama’s secret journal. She learns more than she cared to about her mother’s sexual escapades with Diamond Jim and brawls with the town hussy. She discovers the heartache of betrayal as she trips over her parents’ painful past in search of clues to help Mama heal and bring Diamond Jim back home. Along the way, she leans on her best friend, Mercy, her grandma, Ditty, and the yard sale Virgin Mary who’s crumbling toes are planted firmly in the garden outside their double wide.
Heather Strommen’s debut novel, “Velvet,” is a comfort call for anyone in need of a dose of hope and humor. It illustrates how the retelling of the stories we’ve long told ourselves can unravel the past and make way for the future. Ultimately, “Velvet” is a reminder of the power of love and forgiveness.
*Warning: Spoiler Alerts!
“Heather Strommen has written a beautiful coming-of-age story with unforgettable characters. This book will enthrall readers of all ages. Do not sleep on this gem”
~Christie Tate, NYT Bestselling Author
Professional Praise
for Velvet
“A forever kind of book!”
— Julie Jo Severson, author of "Here in the Middle" and "Secret Twin Cities"
“A novel overflowing with love, faith, and grace ... Notes of humor and sweetness [add] to the achingly poignant plot, crafted with a lyrical touch.”
— Publishers Weekly (BookLife EDITOR’S PICK)
‘Velvet’ is the story you might get if ‘The Secret Life of Bees’ cozied up with ‘Where the Crawdads Sing.’ Gorgeous writing."
—Jennifer Louden, national best-selling author of “The Woman's Comfort Book”
“‘Velvet’ will warm your heart and wrap you in hope. A beautiful and timeless novel.”
—Jennifer Cramer-Miller, author of “Incurable Optimist”
“A sincere, endearing coming-of-age tale about a daughter and her single mom.”
—Kirkus Reviews - “Indie Worth Discovering”
Where to Buy Velvet!
Reader Reviews
“Heartwarming and charming. From the very beginning I could vividly picture Velvet, her surroundings and her heart. I read this book in one day and was anxious to follow her story and her relationships. This is a story that everyone can benefit from no matter what their struggles or challenges. A reminder that faith and love are the only things that truly matter, and that they’ll lead us exactly where we’re supposed to go.”
“I loved reading Velvet. Like any good book, it felt effortless to read. From the beginning, you are hooked. Velvet is such a sweet character; I found her sincerity adorable! One of my favorite things about this story was the strong, loving relationships the female characters (Velvet, her Mother, Mercy, and Ditty) had with each other. The journey Velvet and her mother go through is powerful and heartwarming. If you are looking for an uplifting book, I highly recommend Velvet!”
“This coming-of-age story is beautifully written and keeps you coming back for more. It leaves you with a full heart and encapsulates the, sometimes uncomfortable, feeling of growing older with the people you love most. I absolutely adored the main character and each female relationships she had. I can’t wait for the authors next book!!”
“With her debut novel, Strommen gifts us the town of Sack City, and the lovable Velvet, Mama, Diamond Jim, Mercy, and Ditty. Written with lyrical prose and hits of humor, this is a wonderful coming of age story. Come to be immersed in lovely, vivid writing. Stay to be lifted by love and forgiveness.”