Hollywood and Velvet by David Towner is a wild, twisting journey into the peculiar life of Velvet Duval, a former Hollywood icon with a mysterious and eccentric allure. The story revolves around Christian Meier, a struggling actor, who reluctantly accepts a position as her assistant. What unfolds is a strange and surreal relationship between the disillusioned starlet and the reluctant, no-nonsense Christian. Set against the opulence of Velvet’s secluded Beverly Hills estate, the novel explores themes of fame, identity, and vulnerability while offering biting commentary on the entertainment industry.

What I enjoyed most about this book is Towner’s ability to create characters who feel layered and unpredictable. Velvet Duval is mesmerizing: part faded starlet, part unapologetic provocateur. From her erratic behavior during her first meeting with Christian to the tense intimacy of their later interactions, Velvet dominates every scene with her enigmatic presence. One moment, she’s a vulnerable relic of a bygone era; the next, she’s sharp-tongued and emotionally elusive. This complexity is particularly striking during scenes like the surreal “nude flapper” moment in her ballroom, where Velvet’s theatricality borders on unsettling yet remains captivating.

The writing is sharp and cinematic, yet occasionally indulgent. Towner has a knack for visual storytelling, bringing to life Velvet’s eccentric home and Christian’s inner turmoil. However, at times, the dialogue felt cryptic, which can be both a strength and a frustration. For instance, the exchange where Velvet nonchalantly asks Christian about his military service feels both probing and cruel. Yet, it’s hard to look away as their dynamic unfolds—part power struggle, part reluctant friendship.

I couldn’t help but be struck by the novel’s commentary on the pitfalls of fame and the fleeting nature of celebrity. Velvet’s award room, filled with dusty trophies and forgotten relics of her career, is haunting. It serves as a poignant reminder of the entertainment industry’s brutal disposability. Christian, meanwhile, embodies a generation of actors chasing elusive dreams in an unforgiving world. His disillusionment and quiet resilience make him a compelling foil to Velvet’s erratic grandeur.

Hollywood and Velvet is a bold and ambitious book that dives deep into the shadows of fame and the complexities of human connection. Fans of character-driven narratives and Hollywood intrigue will find much to appreciate here. This is a story for anyone who has ever been captivated by the allure of stardom and wondered about the price of living in its glare. Velvet’s world is chaotic, unsettling, and utterly fascinating—and I’m glad I took the trip.

Pages: 201 | ASIN: B0DRPFTQ2W