A Heartfelt Journey through “Valentine” by Elizabeth Wetmore
Let me share a secret: I fell for Elizabeth Wetmore’s Valentine the moment I encountered its opening lines—a captivating blend of tension and longing that paints an unforgettable portrait of Odessa, Texas, in the late 1970s. The way Wetmore brings a sense of place to life is remarkable; you can almost feel the hot, dusty air and hear the distant sounds of trucks on the highway. It’s hard not to feel drawn into this world, and I found myself enveloped in the stories of its vibrant yet scarred characters.
At the center of Valentine is Gloria Ramirez, a fourteen-year-old girl whose life changes forever due to a horrific crime. The novel begins vividly, with Gloria in a parking lot, "doing what she always did on a Friday night—hanging around, drinking limeades and begging smokes." This stark contrast to the life-altering encounter that follows sets the stage for an exploration of resilience, trauma, and the bond among women in a deeply patriarchal environment. Other characters, like Mary Rose, who stands to protect Gloria, and Corinne, who battles her own demons, offer nuanced perspectives on female strength and vulnerability in a town where secrets are currency.
Wetmore’s writing style is a tapestry of lyrical prose and keen observation. She expertly weaves the individual narratives together, creating a mosaic that reflects the struggles and hopes of each woman residing on Larkspur Lane. The alternating perspectives granted me a multifaceted view of their lives, from overwhelming despair to glimmers of hope. As a reader, I felt as if I were not just an observer but an integral part of their shared journey—especially through Mary Rose’s first-person narrative, which added a layer of intimacy and urgency.
One of the most haunting lines, “What a thing an oil boom is for a town,” echoes throughout, encapsulating both the allure and peril that comes with economic opportunities in a harsh landscape. Wetmore’s depiction of Odessa, an unforgiving backdrop filled with “red-in-tooth-and-claw” relationships, underscores the reality many women face—a dilemma of staying or leaving, of silence or speaking out. The landscape is both physical and emotional, and I found the way Wetmore reflects its harshness—be it through wind or weather—gives the book a resonant heart.
Memorable moments, such as Gloria’s fleeting friendship with an unlikely companion while she recovers, serve as poignant reminders that humanity can shine even in darkness. And as one character muses, “Stories save lives,” I realized how profound that sentiment is in this narrative, where each woman’s story intertwines to create a powerful collective voice.
I wholeheartedly recommend Valentine to anyone who appreciates stories about women transcending their circumstances, grappling with deep-rooted societal issues, or simply seeking beautifully crafted prose. Elizabeth Wetmore’s debut is not just a novel; it’s a moving testament to resilience and sisterhood in the face of adversity, a book that lingers in your mind long after you turn the last page. For those who love books that prompt both reflection and emotional connection, this is a Valentine that you will want to make your own.