"McKinney-Whetstone’s trademark poetic prose is still as sharp as it has always been…without sacrificing plot and pacing…. I couldn’t be happier that McKinney-Whetstone has returned to show us all how it’s done.” - Washington Post on Lazaretto
“As in any Diane McKinney–Whetstone novel, there is love in all of its many facets and dimensions. The author shows that good writing is like a fine bottle of wine–it just gets better with time.” - Essence on Lazaretto
“Even the air is palpable. . . . The story moves forth on the power of [the] characters. Ms. McKinney-Whetstone captures the formidable struggle to protect both a community and a family.” - New York Times Book Review on Tumbling
"Family Spirit blooms with life and overflows with characters so much like people we know and teases us with a hint of magic. McKinney-Whetstone’s skill with imagery and imagination remains her hallmark and is on full display in her latest novel" - Acclaimed author Donna Hill
"Diane McKinney-Whetstone has gathered my favorite story ingredients and stitched them into an engaging tale. From where I sit (book in one hand, iced tea glass in the other) Ayana, Lil and Nona, are the queens of this narrative. Thank you, Diane." - Sheila Williams, author of No Better Time
"Family Spirit is a beautifully written exploration of intergenerational power and longing. Diane McKinney-Whetstone’s fascinating premise and sure-handed storytelling will put readers under a spell." - Tananarive Due, author of The Reformatory (Los Angeles Times Book Prize winner)
“Sparkles with authenticity . . . a vibrant look into the power and spirituality of a multigenerational Black family." - Kirkus Reviews
"McKinney-Whetstone explores legacy, intuition, and family through her lyrical prose and vivid characters…a thoughtful and beautifully told novel with both emotional depth and a touch of the uncanny." - Brittney Cray, Booklist
Crisp, detailed prose makes every story line feel lived-in and real, with a particular highlight being the complex but realistic family dynamics and dialogue. This layered fantasy feels almost fairy tale–esque, comfortable and cozy in its own mythology. - Publishers Weekly
"Overall, the novel is a story about women, about growing up, and about owning the person one can become. Magic is there, but it’s not too prevalent. And if you enjoy stories that make writing as a craft evident, then you’ll have fun with this one.”
- Adriana Acevedo, Metastellar