Miss Virginia and the Sweet Sisters: A Novel

Amazing! It’s been a long time since I have read a book that I literally could not put down. The author did such an amazing job of telling this story, and from so many different viewpoints of extremely diverse characters that it’s almost unbelievable. Her ability to write a compelling story, and also share a message is beyond my comprehension. I can see how she had to reach deep within herself and bring forth so much emotion and self exploration to bring these characters to life. Having witnessed interracial discrimination in my neck of the woods from childhood, I can definitely say that she hit the nail on the head and really represented this topic in all of its authenticity. It made me laugh cry yell out loud and get totally sucked in and lost for hours. I love her work and I am definitely one of her biggest fans. I would encourage anyone who would like to read a book and maybe even learn some thing along the way to pick this up and dive right in. ~ Olivia Gottshall

Poignant, heartwarming Story! Fantastic story! It is exciting, engaging, heartwarming, fun, and poignant without being preachy. It also manages to hit a lot of notes (drama, humor, action, etc.) really effectively at the same time. I can’t wait to share it with others. ~ J. Caldara, Author of The Black Walrus

Suspenseful, exciting, and heartwarming. This historical fiction deserves to be published. The many and varied characters are well drawn, engaging, and memorable. The action is exciting. The scenes are vivid, and the dialogue is right-on. Lindsey, the female protagonist, comes of age in the 320 pages but not before all hell breaks loose along the way. This novel captures life in the late sixties in Paris, KY with photo-realistic accuracy and picture-perfect character renderings. Read it and be rewarded. ~ F. Scannell, Writer

A very compelling story. The writing is very strong throughout, and it works sentence to sentence and page to page. I love how it weaves the tensions and struggles of the time with a young girl’s coming-of-age and a gripping mystery/action/thriller plot. The dialogue reads as authentic, and each character’s dialogue is unique and of the person. The action scenes are gripping and very impressive. I love the way Paris is drawn as a believable and concrete world. I can picture the sidewalks and the porches, and the homes. I can picture the jungle. I can feel the heat of summer. I can smell Jimmy’s rancid odor. It is a wonderful story, beautifully told. I cannot wait until I can buy a copy from Tattered Cover!! ~ R. Selzer, Author and Writer

What a story! Absolutely superb! ~Natli VanDerWerken, MSCIS, International Award-winning Author

Friends – I am so thrilled to Shout From the Mountains that a High School classmate has just launched her first novel. And what a great book it is. She infused her book with our love of the beautiful horse country that surrounds our small town. Run, don’t walk to your computer, and order Donna’s great adventure. You will fall in love with the author after you read Miss Virginia and the Sweet Sisters. ~ Delia Sadler

I couldn’t put it down. Growing up in the sixties in Paris, Kentucky, I was eager to read the book. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down until I finished reading it. It was suspenseful throughout the entire book. While I was reading, I would drift off thinking about my childhood. Those were good memories. Thank you for that, Donna Lawerence. In conclusion, I very much enjoyed reading the book. I look forward to Ms.Lawerence’s next book. ~Lynn

Hitchcock like novel with twists and turns. Interesting read set in my hometown of Paris, Ky. Suspenseful plot that gets pulled together at the end for a surprise. Very well written.
True enjoyment if you like “Gotcha” storyline novels! ~ Ron

A novel that provides a unique perspective on intra racial prejudice woven around an evil presence. Donna Lawrence has written a thoroughly entertaining novel that presents a unique perspective on intra-racial prejudice within the context of a coming-of-age story that is woven around an evil presence, reminiscent of Eric Larsen’s novel, “The Devil in The White City.” The story takes place in the city of Paris, that is located in The Blue Grass region of Kentucky with its rich heritage of horseracing, Black Angus cattle, fine Bourbon Whiskey, and landed gentry. I highly recommend this book. ~F.F. Raine author of Hyde and Seek and The Reluctant Voyageur

A Must-Read. If you are looking for something with a captivating storyline, insight into how life experiences shape us, a mystery, and excellent writing, this book is for you. It is the author’s first published book. I hope it’s not the last because Donna Lawrence is very talented. Without spoiling the story for those who haven’t read the book, you will not be disappointed. The author keeps your interest and keeps you guessing throughout. I was born and raised in the area in which the story takes place which piqued my interest. Regardless of whether you have ever been to Central Kentucky, you will come away with a better understanding of the area. The author tackles the issue of colorism, coming of age in the late ’60’s, integration, and self-acceptance. I highly recommend it!!!! ~Music Connoisseur