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Divas Series #1
Hustlin' Divas
In the first book of a fierce new series, meet Memphis's hardest ride-or-die chicks as they fight along with their infamous men to lock down the Dirty South.Memphis is the crime capital of America, and no one knows that better than the women born and raised on its mean streets. It's put sisters Ta'Shara and LeShelle on opposite sides of the street game, where blood means nothing and loyalty doesn't last long. It's also got Yolanda, an ambitious drug mule, and Melanie, a police detective, caught up with the same man--the notorious hustler Python. These four women think they've got the game figured out, but the one man they have in common will have them living double lives and wondering who will come out on top. Forget what you heard about East Coast/West Coast, 'cause real vendettas are born in the Dirty South. "Diamond's ear for street talk comes across loud and clear. . .a violent and profane tale, which launches a gritty new series. The divas here are realistic characters, and the pacing zooms. . .one of the best constructed street lit stories of 2010." --Library Journal "A nonstop, hard-hitting page-turner." --Tu-Shonda L. Whitaker
385 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2010
63 people are currently reading
1247 people want to read
About the author
De'nesha Diamond
31 books355 followers National bestselling author De’nesha Diamond burst onto the scene as the co-author of the gritty Desperate Hoodwives tales. The Essence magazine recommended series has taken the street-lit game by storm and paved a brand new path for the edgy Memphis native. Understanding that there is a fine line between glorifying thug life and telling it like it is, De’nesha Diamond spins cautionary tales inspired by personal experience and the heartbreaking stories that make our nightly news. In the end, she aims to deliver hope, even if sometimes there are no rides in the golden sunset.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
February 19, 2011
Is this really how gangstas live? When you think of street gangs and violence you typically think of men. This book will change your whole outlook on gangs and street life. The females go just as hard as the men do! It was full of drama and almost never a dull moment! I cant wait to read Street Divas to see how TaShara and LeShelle's relationship turns out. OMG what is gonna happen between Fat Ace and Python???? READ THIS BOOK!!!!!!
December 28, 2011
There were parts of this story that I found completely ridiculous. Dimaond spent way too much time trying to freak her readers out and not enough time developing good characters. There isn't one positive or grounded male or female character in this book. However, I'm giving it 3 stars because 1) I finished it and 2) I think the sequel will be somewhat better.
In 'Hustlin' Divas,' Diamond tells the story of Profit and Ta'Shara, two lovestruck teens with family ties to two opposing gangs: Profit's brother, Fat Ace, is the leader of the Vice Lords and Ta'Shara's sister LaShelle is the Queen Bitch of The Gangster Disciples and wifey of its leader, Python. Fat Ace and Python are sworn enemies, sleeping with the same crooked cop Melanie who tells both men she's pregnant with their child in an effort to get back at Profit for not paying her enough attention and blah blah blah.
Profit and Ta'Shara are determined to see one another no matter what, but somewhere along the line LaShelle's position as Python's main chick is compromised partly because he discovers that LaShelle's sister is "sleeping with the enemy" and begins to question LaShelle's loyalty to him. To "reclaim" her spot as Python's main chick, LaShelle accepts Python's challenge to squash the relationship between her sister and Python. Next thing you know, the book is done.
I mean, it's dumb...really dumb. I absolutely HATE it when urban authors attempt to navigate or tell the story of a police officer. It always fails! Yes, there is no difference between organized crime rings (like gangs and drug dealing operations) and police officers; however, there is a difference in the attitudes between life criminals and corrupt police officers. And 9 times out of 10, these urban lit writers cannot convey that difference in a novel.
There is a scene where Python has a snake eat his cousin. I don't know what that's all about...I didn't know snakes ate people. I didn't know snakes even fed like that...I thought they could eat one big thing like a whole egg and then not eat again for months. Or something like that. But in this novel, snakes eat people.
And finally, the most disturbing aspects of 'Hustlin' Divas' occur in the bizarre sex scenes between Python (who is supposed to be ridiculously ugly, but shockingly well endowed with a split/severed tongue that resembles the tongue of a snake, which he uses often when performing oral sex on one of his many concubines - go figure) and LaShelle, Melanie, and Yolanda. The choking, the beating, the trash bags, etc. are all so pointless. All Diamond managed to do was aggravate me with these nonsensical scenes that failed to reinforce something about each characters' personality that wasn't made obvious in the beginning of the book.
You may want to pass on this unless you want to read this sadomasochistic, urban Romeo & Juliet tale. It's not my style.
In 'Hustlin' Divas,' Diamond tells the story of Profit and Ta'Shara, two lovestruck teens with family ties to two opposing gangs: Profit's brother, Fat Ace, is the leader of the Vice Lords and Ta'Shara's sister LaShelle is the Queen Bitch of The Gangster Disciples and wifey of its leader, Python. Fat Ace and Python are sworn enemies, sleeping with the same crooked cop Melanie who tells both men she's pregnant with their child in an effort to get back at Profit for not paying her enough attention and blah blah blah.
Profit and Ta'Shara are determined to see one another no matter what, but somewhere along the line LaShelle's position as Python's main chick is compromised partly because he discovers that LaShelle's sister is "sleeping with the enemy" and begins to question LaShelle's loyalty to him. To "reclaim" her spot as Python's main chick, LaShelle accepts Python's challenge to squash the relationship between her sister and Python. Next thing you know, the book is done.
I mean, it's dumb...really dumb. I absolutely HATE it when urban authors attempt to navigate or tell the story of a police officer. It always fails! Yes, there is no difference between organized crime rings (like gangs and drug dealing operations) and police officers; however, there is a difference in the attitudes between life criminals and corrupt police officers. And 9 times out of 10, these urban lit writers cannot convey that difference in a novel.
There is a scene where Python has a snake eat his cousin. I don't know what that's all about...I didn't know snakes ate people. I didn't know snakes even fed like that...I thought they could eat one big thing like a whole egg and then not eat again for months. Or something like that. But in this novel, snakes eat people.
And finally, the most disturbing aspects of 'Hustlin' Divas' occur in the bizarre sex scenes between Python (who is supposed to be ridiculously ugly, but shockingly well endowed with a split/severed tongue that resembles the tongue of a snake, which he uses often when performing oral sex on one of his many concubines - go figure) and LaShelle, Melanie, and Yolanda. The choking, the beating, the trash bags, etc. are all so pointless. All Diamond managed to do was aggravate me with these nonsensical scenes that failed to reinforce something about each characters' personality that wasn't made obvious in the beginning of the book.
You may want to pass on this unless you want to read this sadomasochistic, urban Romeo & Juliet tale. It's not my style.
September 17, 2015
I should have waited to read this book. Now I have to sit here fiening until next year, sigh.
Ta'Shara and LeShelle are sister who end up in foster care. Several events lead to Ta'Shara finally ending up with a decent family, doing well in school and finding love among her sisters enemies. LeShelle ends up in a group home then in a gang where she finally lands the leader and move to Queen G status. And she is not giving up her title, not even to save her sister.
It has murder, a racist cop, corrupt cops, gang violence, kinky and dangerous sex, snakes, lost family members, pedophiles, I think the kitchen sink was even mentioned, everything's included. The book leaves several cliff hangers and I can't wait to see how things play out for several members of this book.
Ta'Shara and LeShelle are sister who end up in foster care. Several events lead to Ta'Shara finally ending up with a decent family, doing well in school and finding love among her sisters enemies. LeShelle ends up in a group home then in a gang where she finally lands the leader and move to Queen G status. And she is not giving up her title, not even to save her sister.
It has murder, a racist cop, corrupt cops, gang violence, kinky and dangerous sex, snakes, lost family members, pedophiles, I think the kitchen sink was even mentioned, everything's included. The book leaves several cliff hangers and I can't wait to see how things play out for several members of this book.
June 29, 2020
BOOM BOOM! BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG!! SHOOT THEM UP!! GONE WITHIN A BANG!!
This is going to be really difficult to review.
Why?
This is only the second book I have read where "Hustlin" is part of the game. The first being The Golden Hustla by Wahida Clark.
With that in mind, I hope this review goes well. *cracks knuckles*
Shall we start? Okay, let's do it.
Hustlin' Divas is set in South Memphis, Tennessee. There really isn't that much of a plot. This is the kind of book where the characters and their relationships with other MOVE the plot; the characters ARE the plot.
Here are some of the characters presented in Hustlin' Divas.
LeShelle:
She is the older sister of Ta'Shara, and together, they stick together after their parents' death and different foster homes. She is the head of the Queen G's, the female counterparts to the Black Gangster Disciples. Phython, the leader of the BGD, is her partner. Or more accurately, she is his "wifey". Together, they cause a beautiful disaster and more chaos than Bonnie and Clyde. If only LeShelle could get pregnant with his baby.
Ta'Shara:
She is LeShelle's baby sister and the only one who wants nothing to do with her hustlin' association or Memphis's ghetto for that matter. She falls for Profit, the brother of Fat Ace, who is the rival of the Black Gangster Disciples. They both don't want anything to do with them, but there's no denying that their love could cause several consequences.
Melanie:
Raised to be a policewoman by her father, she tries hard to eliminate the vicious crimes of Memphis and always trying to prove herself. She's also a single mother, and not many people know the real father of the child. Little did they know, Phython's is the real father. Their relationship goes way back, and she's perhaps Phython's real love. Not that it matters, anyway. He is a criminal and she's a policewoman. It's hopeless. Melanie also spends time with Fat Ace, Phython's biggest enemy. Revenge is best served cold, I guess. The bad news is, she is pregnant again and doesn't know who the real father is.
Oh, boy.
Yolanda:
Oh, she is important? Yes? Alright, Yolanda wants to be Phython's "Wifey" really bad. Really, really bad. To make that possible, she joins Phython's strip club to gain his attention. And it works. For a while, anyway. LeShelle proves to her who's boss, but that doesn't stop her. Until she discovers that her friend Baby Thug has fallen for her. The result is not pretty at all.
Mama Peaches:
She is Phython's aunt and the reason why he is the way he is. She's the oldest hustler in the game, but not necessarily the least dangerous.
She's without no doubt, the most well-developed character in this entire book. Despite that, she's a pretty cool old lady.
I like her, enough said.
Phython:
According to his lovers, he is an ugly motherfucker with a muffin top-like tip. He is bad and he knows it. Anyone who tries to defy him will end up dead. Women are willing to sleep with him and be his baby-mama. This guy has a lot of illegitimate children, it's not funny. Even if he claims to have a "wifey", he will eat his cake and eat it, too. He needs backup, you know. Perhaps the only woman he loves is Melanie, his high school crush and baby-mama. Who knows. He is the most dangerous man in South Memphis and he won't stop.
Hustlin' Divas has elements of action, love, and betrayal which made this book really enjoyable.
I can't say the same for the sex. It was over-the-top and bizarre. I don't think chocking your partner and asphyxiating her with a plastic bag during sex sounds fun. At all.
The cliff-hanger let me wanting more and made my heart explode.
Thanks a lot, now I want to read the sequel.
This is going to be really difficult to review.
Why?
This is only the second book I have read where "Hustlin" is part of the game. The first being The Golden Hustla by Wahida Clark.
With that in mind, I hope this review goes well. *cracks knuckles*
Shall we start? Okay, let's do it.
Hustlin' Divas is set in South Memphis, Tennessee. There really isn't that much of a plot. This is the kind of book where the characters and their relationships with other MOVE the plot; the characters ARE the plot.
Here are some of the characters presented in Hustlin' Divas.
LeShelle:
She is the older sister of Ta'Shara, and together, they stick together after their parents' death and different foster homes. She is the head of the Queen G's, the female counterparts to the Black Gangster Disciples. Phython, the leader of the BGD, is her partner. Or more accurately, she is his "wifey". Together, they cause a beautiful disaster and more chaos than Bonnie and Clyde. If only LeShelle could get pregnant with his baby.
Ta'Shara:
She is LeShelle's baby sister and the only one who wants nothing to do with her hustlin' association or Memphis's ghetto for that matter. She falls for Profit, the brother of Fat Ace, who is the rival of the Black Gangster Disciples. They both don't want anything to do with them, but there's no denying that their love could cause several consequences.
Melanie:
Raised to be a policewoman by her father, she tries hard to eliminate the vicious crimes of Memphis and always trying to prove herself. She's also a single mother, and not many people know the real father of the child. Little did they know, Phython's is the real father. Their relationship goes way back, and she's perhaps Phython's real love. Not that it matters, anyway. He is a criminal and she's a policewoman. It's hopeless. Melanie also spends time with Fat Ace, Phython's biggest enemy. Revenge is best served cold, I guess. The bad news is, she is pregnant again and doesn't know who the real father is.
Oh, boy.
Yolanda:
Oh, she is important? Yes? Alright, Yolanda wants to be Phython's "Wifey" really bad. Really, really bad. To make that possible, she joins Phython's strip club to gain his attention. And it works. For a while, anyway. LeShelle proves to her who's boss, but that doesn't stop her. Until she discovers that her friend Baby Thug has fallen for her. The result is not pretty at all.
Mama Peaches:
She is Phython's aunt and the reason why he is the way he is. She's the oldest hustler in the game, but not necessarily the least dangerous.
She's without no doubt, the most well-developed character in this entire book. Despite that, she's a pretty cool old lady.
I like her, enough said.
Phython:
According to his lovers, he is an ugly motherfucker with a muffin top-like tip. He is bad and he knows it. Anyone who tries to defy him will end up dead. Women are willing to sleep with him and be his baby-mama. This guy has a lot of illegitimate children, it's not funny. Even if he claims to have a "wifey", he will eat his cake and eat it, too. He needs backup, you know. Perhaps the only woman he loves is Melanie, his high school crush and baby-mama. Who knows. He is the most dangerous man in South Memphis and he won't stop.
Hustlin' Divas has elements of action, love, and betrayal which made this book really enjoyable.
I can't say the same for the sex. It was over-the-top and bizarre. I don't think chocking your partner and asphyxiating her with a plastic bag during sex sounds fun. At all.
The cliff-hanger let me wanting more and made my heart explode.
Thanks a lot, now I want to read the sequel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2010
Hustlin' Diva's by De'nesha Diamond is set against the backdrop of Memphis,
Tennessee where female gangs run the Mid-South. The Queen G's are the females
that run with the Black Gangster Disciples and the Flowers run with the Vice
Lords. The story centers on the Queen G's and their men, the Black Gangster
Disciples.
Python is the leader of the Black Gangster Disciples and runs his gang with an
iron fist. Ever since he was a youngin' he had a thing for snakes, so most times
you see him he has his pet pythons slithering around or nearby. He also has a
string of baby mamas around the way. Once he brands a female, no other Gangster
Disciple is allowed to touch her.
LeShelle is the leader of the Queen G's and Python's "wifey." She is the only
one of Python's women that has not borne him a child. LeShelle is a ride or die
chick to the fullest; when Python is about to go shoot off his gun, LeShelle is
right by his side busting her gun. Rumor has it that LeShelle's little sister,
Ta'Shara, is running with a member of the Vice Lords. Although LeShelle warns
her to end the relationship, Ta'Shara refuses to end it with him.
Melanie is a detective on the police force....and a single parent. Little does
anyone know Melanie has quite a few secrets and she is bound and determined for
no one to discover them. When and if they do...all hell is going to break loose.
Hustlin' Divas by De'Nesha Diamond is a story of love, loyalty, drugs
and murder. This was a good story but unfortunately I felt quite a few things
were a little predictable and the ending was left hanging. All-in-all this is a
good story and I look forward to finding out how it will end.
This book was provided by the publisher for review purposes.
Reviewed by Leona
APOOO BookClub
Final Rating: 3.5 stars
Tennessee where female gangs run the Mid-South. The Queen G's are the females
that run with the Black Gangster Disciples and the Flowers run with the Vice
Lords. The story centers on the Queen G's and their men, the Black Gangster
Disciples.
Python is the leader of the Black Gangster Disciples and runs his gang with an
iron fist. Ever since he was a youngin' he had a thing for snakes, so most times
you see him he has his pet pythons slithering around or nearby. He also has a
string of baby mamas around the way. Once he brands a female, no other Gangster
Disciple is allowed to touch her.
LeShelle is the leader of the Queen G's and Python's "wifey." She is the only
one of Python's women that has not borne him a child. LeShelle is a ride or die
chick to the fullest; when Python is about to go shoot off his gun, LeShelle is
right by his side busting her gun. Rumor has it that LeShelle's little sister,
Ta'Shara, is running with a member of the Vice Lords. Although LeShelle warns
her to end the relationship, Ta'Shara refuses to end it with him.
Melanie is a detective on the police force....and a single parent. Little does
anyone know Melanie has quite a few secrets and she is bound and determined for
no one to discover them. When and if they do...all hell is going to break loose.
Hustlin' Divas by De'Nesha Diamond is a story of love, loyalty, drugs
and murder. This was a good story but unfortunately I felt quite a few things
were a little predictable and the ending was left hanging. All-in-all this is a
good story and I look forward to finding out how it will end.
This book was provided by the publisher for review purposes.
Reviewed by Leona
APOOO BookClub
Final Rating: 3.5 stars
March 25, 2017
Too much drama for me. Too many characters.
January 16, 2011
The Streets Don't Love Nobody,
Violence knows no boundaries. Like many cities across America, the gang life and its mentality has made its way to Memphis,Tennessee . This mentality has affected the lives of many including sisters LeShelle and Ta'Shara. Orphaned at a young age, each sought the security of family from different sources. LeShelle is the head of the Queen G's, the female counterparts to the Black Gangster Disciples. Her boyfriend, Python, is the leader of the Black Gangster Disciples. Her gang is her family and she will let nothing and no one threaten that bond. Younger sister, Ta'Shara, on the other hand, flourished under the guidance of foster parents. With good grades, she has dreams and they include leaving Memphis and its violence in her rear view. That is until she meets Profitt, a handsome young man who happens to be on the other side of the gang color line. Like Ta'Shara, he's not in a gang. But their blood association makes them gang affiliated whether they like it or not.
Also affected by the mean streets of Memphis is Yolanda. A little slower than the rest, her position on the totem pole is pretty low. Determined to rise within the Queen G's and garner the respect and attention she feels she deserves, Yolanda is working overtime to secure herself a new position, even if it means taking someone else's.
On the other side of the violence with a badge and a gun is Melanie, a cop and young, single mother. The daughter of the police captain, she's spent her career proving herself. But she also spent quite some time trying to fit in, which may come back into play.
There was a lot to like about this book, which is fortunate, because it outweighed what I didn't care for. I'll start with what I didn't like first. The title was misleading and didn't really apply to this story. It's a nice title...for another book with a more fitting storyline. Next, the synopsis gave away a secret that could have been explosive had readers not already been hipped to it. Finally, the author tried a little too hard with making this book hard, street, ghetto or whatever term you want to use. Less is sometimes more and I wished that Diamond had pulled back some. The story was strong enough and would have still worked.
On the plus side, she did many things right: good pacing, interesting characters, and enough drama to keep readers quickly flipping the pages. Diamond weaves a tale of many threads to show the power and consequences of the streets. And she does so in a way that will have readers still thinking about this novel long after they've read the last page. Descriptive, graphic and sometimes disturbing, "Hustlin' Divas" is highly entertaining. While it's not a perfect novel (also see below), Diamond surely delivers the drama, emotion and appeal that many books are lacking.
ALSO, I have to take away for...
Celebrity sightings: 5. Instead of describing some characters, they were simply described as looking like a celebrity. Chilli from TLC, Diahann Carroll, O.J. Simpson, Pam Grier and Laila Ali look-alikes were in this book. And I'd be remiss not to mention the `good Puerto Rican hair' and `Indian' physical attributes associated with beauty.
I've said it before and I'll say it again: ENOUGH with sequels! Like so many books today, there will be a part two, "Street Divas." Give me ONE COMPLETE story.
#Bringing Quality Back#
Reviewed by: Toni
3.75 stars
Violence knows no boundaries. Like many cities across America, the gang life and its mentality has made its way to Memphis,Tennessee . This mentality has affected the lives of many including sisters LeShelle and Ta'Shara. Orphaned at a young age, each sought the security of family from different sources. LeShelle is the head of the Queen G's, the female counterparts to the Black Gangster Disciples. Her boyfriend, Python, is the leader of the Black Gangster Disciples. Her gang is her family and she will let nothing and no one threaten that bond. Younger sister, Ta'Shara, on the other hand, flourished under the guidance of foster parents. With good grades, she has dreams and they include leaving Memphis and its violence in her rear view. That is until she meets Profitt, a handsome young man who happens to be on the other side of the gang color line. Like Ta'Shara, he's not in a gang. But their blood association makes them gang affiliated whether they like it or not.
Also affected by the mean streets of Memphis is Yolanda. A little slower than the rest, her position on the totem pole is pretty low. Determined to rise within the Queen G's and garner the respect and attention she feels she deserves, Yolanda is working overtime to secure herself a new position, even if it means taking someone else's.
On the other side of the violence with a badge and a gun is Melanie, a cop and young, single mother. The daughter of the police captain, she's spent her career proving herself. But she also spent quite some time trying to fit in, which may come back into play.
There was a lot to like about this book, which is fortunate, because it outweighed what I didn't care for. I'll start with what I didn't like first. The title was misleading and didn't really apply to this story. It's a nice title...for another book with a more fitting storyline. Next, the synopsis gave away a secret that could have been explosive had readers not already been hipped to it. Finally, the author tried a little too hard with making this book hard, street, ghetto or whatever term you want to use. Less is sometimes more and I wished that Diamond had pulled back some. The story was strong enough and would have still worked.
On the plus side, she did many things right: good pacing, interesting characters, and enough drama to keep readers quickly flipping the pages. Diamond weaves a tale of many threads to show the power and consequences of the streets. And she does so in a way that will have readers still thinking about this novel long after they've read the last page. Descriptive, graphic and sometimes disturbing, "Hustlin' Divas" is highly entertaining. While it's not a perfect novel (also see below), Diamond surely delivers the drama, emotion and appeal that many books are lacking.
ALSO, I have to take away for...
Celebrity sightings: 5. Instead of describing some characters, they were simply described as looking like a celebrity. Chilli from TLC, Diahann Carroll, O.J. Simpson, Pam Grier and Laila Ali look-alikes were in this book. And I'd be remiss not to mention the `good Puerto Rican hair' and `Indian' physical attributes associated with beauty.
I've said it before and I'll say it again: ENOUGH with sequels! Like so many books today, there will be a part two, "Street Divas." Give me ONE COMPLETE story.
#Bringing Quality Back#
Reviewed by: Toni
3.75 stars
July 29, 2020
1st read 1/2011 4 🌟
Ok read. Leshelle working hard to be a Queen GD to her man Python his ride and die chick no matter that he has baby moms all over the city and sleeping with everyone she still by his side with her gun at her side even if that means losing her sis TaShara over her man. TaShara is her own person living with her foster parents she wants more with life then her sister LeShelle does she ends up falling for a boy name Profit that happens to be the brother of the VL king Fat Ace but, Profit dont have anything to do with the gang but, TaShara and him hides out trying to keep there secret until their secret is reveiled and it gets back to LaShelle.
Yolanda wants everything and she looking to have Python even if that means working in his club and becoming a hoe to get some attention from Python then that is what it means. While her best friend Baby Thug is at her side trying to take some sense into her at the same time Baby Thug is falling for Yolanda.
Melanie is a police officer with a crazy past that includes Phython in her past but, she will do anything for the man she waits for at her apartment waiting to be with him.
Momma Preaches is Python's aunt that tells alot of her past with her sister growing up and how Python became the way he is. Momma Preaches likes them young boys and dont care who known's.
Over all liked this book it kept me reading can't wait for part 2.
2nd read 7/2020 3 🌟
After reading my first review I stick to same review. But star ratings to me is down a bit. Just was okay. Some characters are very mysterious. Not sure if I'll continue on to book 2. I see I didn't back then.
Ok read. Leshelle working hard to be a Queen GD to her man Python his ride and die chick no matter that he has baby moms all over the city and sleeping with everyone she still by his side with her gun at her side even if that means losing her sis TaShara over her man. TaShara is her own person living with her foster parents she wants more with life then her sister LeShelle does she ends up falling for a boy name Profit that happens to be the brother of the VL king Fat Ace but, Profit dont have anything to do with the gang but, TaShara and him hides out trying to keep there secret until their secret is reveiled and it gets back to LaShelle.
Yolanda wants everything and she looking to have Python even if that means working in his club and becoming a hoe to get some attention from Python then that is what it means. While her best friend Baby Thug is at her side trying to take some sense into her at the same time Baby Thug is falling for Yolanda.
Melanie is a police officer with a crazy past that includes Phython in her past but, she will do anything for the man she waits for at her apartment waiting to be with him.
Momma Preaches is Python's aunt that tells alot of her past with her sister growing up and how Python became the way he is. Momma Preaches likes them young boys and dont care who known's.
Over all liked this book it kept me reading can't wait for part 2.
2nd read 7/2020 3 🌟
After reading my first review I stick to same review. But star ratings to me is down a bit. Just was okay. Some characters are very mysterious. Not sure if I'll continue on to book 2. I see I didn't back then.
February 15, 2018
Gangsta Living….This is a MUST read!!
I enjoyed the twisted plots within the story. Two sisters – Ta’Shara and LeShelle who grew up in group home/foster care. Ta’Shara, the” good sister” leaves the group home end up with a well-off family and good education. LeShelle on the other hand, is in the group home where the gang life is introduced to her. She works her way to the top by becoming “Wifey” to the leader of the Gang. She’s determined to not be disrespected or give up her title as Queen G. LaShelle is not someone to cross…she has no boundaries when it comes to maintaining her status as the Queen G.
This book has a little of everything that communities face in real life – gang violence, corrupt and racist cops, lost loved ones, and deception. LOVED IT!!!
I enjoyed the twisted plots within the story. Two sisters – Ta’Shara and LeShelle who grew up in group home/foster care. Ta’Shara, the” good sister” leaves the group home end up with a well-off family and good education. LeShelle on the other hand, is in the group home where the gang life is introduced to her. She works her way to the top by becoming “Wifey” to the leader of the Gang. She’s determined to not be disrespected or give up her title as Queen G. LaShelle is not someone to cross…she has no boundaries when it comes to maintaining her status as the Queen G.
This book has a little of everything that communities face in real life – gang violence, corrupt and racist cops, lost loved ones, and deception. LOVED IT!!!
January 15, 2011
I loved it! I read it in two days. It was that good. The characters are well developed and your pulled in right from the beginning. I raced right through the last half of the book because the drama really heats up from every page there after. If you enjoy street lit and can deal with the explicit language you will love this one. I agree with the other reviewers....I can't wait for the 2nd book.
August 3, 2012
OMG LaShelle s a heartless witch she had her jumped in and deflowered into the Queen G's and shoot YaShara's man Profit Python ran upon his brother runnning up in his first the love and cop Melanie. Yolanda thinks she will become the HBIC of Queen G and Python's.. Wow so much I hated the way it ended hav to get Street Divas quick. Loved it.
June 2, 2015
This book right here…this book right here will leave you speechless! De'nesha Diamond proves that she is a beast with the pen. Because of the exceptional writing in this book, I wanted to visit the city of Memphis, but will probably be too scared to come out of my room! Who knew that women could be so treacherous? Lol I'm anxiously awaiting the sequel.
December 30, 2019
This is the first book of this series and it was good! Two main gangs in Memphis going back and forth with their beefs. Lines are crossed with a cop who has a kid by the leader of the Black Gangster Disciples and the sister of the leader of the Queen G's. Read the book to see what happens. On to the 2nd book!
April 3, 2012
I'm gonna say it and I don't care what nobody thinks but this book was hella good. It some crazy, scary, laugh out loud moments. If you're looking for fast paced good story with some gangsta characters thrown in then read this book.
February 18, 2017
It was a good read, kept me wanting to read. Just getting tired of sequels
April 18, 2015
Good read
It was a good book. I problem had was I felt the character was to space out my first read by this AUTHOR but not my last. Now on to book 2 in series.
It was a good book. I problem had was I felt the character was to space out my first read by this AUTHOR but not my last. Now on to book 2 in series.
January 5, 2021
I’m retreading this series, and let’s just say there’s a reason I remember so many details. Such a twisting storyline. Lovely.
March 5, 2020
I'm reading the eBook version. At first, the first few chapters, or about 12% of the read, I was going to stop reading and make my conclusions early that I didn't like this read. However, I've read "Gangsta Divas" first and took me quite some time to read, then followed by the audiobook version of "Street Divas" next. I enjoyed the second book so far in the series, also because it was read by several narrators and allowed me to capture the story at its best. I may be bias since I do not really read Urban lit, since it is overly compensated or exaggerated, or the same old story with different character names/cities.
I'm about 60% in the read, and can see the same things happening in book 2 that definitely linked in book 3, and while reading this book 1 (all out of order)--can see how some things progressed in the other series. Momma Peaches seems to be the same woman in all three--sex and flapcakes thereafter.
When I read about Memphis gangstas, I recall similar gang names in Illinois. I had to re-check to make sure I was reading about southern gang members, not from the Chi. Then, I had to ask an ex-gang member if it happens like this; he said with Urban lit, it's always highlighting drug dealers/gang members/hustlers in a negative light--overly done or the other side, but never the middle man--meaning the other people living in the hood like working class.
Rating wasn't easy, since at first, didn't like... about 85%in got my attention. It's not the writing that determined the score but not a fan of this type of literature. If you are, you may love it.
1.75/2. Okay read towards the end.
Disclaimer: I borrowed a copy from the library and giving my honest opinion of the read.
I'm about 60% in the read, and can see the same things happening in book 2 that definitely linked in book 3, and while reading this book 1 (all out of order)--can see how some things progressed in the other series. Momma Peaches seems to be the same woman in all three--sex and flapcakes thereafter.
When I read about Memphis gangstas, I recall similar gang names in Illinois. I had to re-check to make sure I was reading about southern gang members, not from the Chi. Then, I had to ask an ex-gang member if it happens like this; he said with Urban lit, it's always highlighting drug dealers/gang members/hustlers in a negative light--overly done or the other side, but never the middle man--meaning the other people living in the hood like working class.
Rating wasn't easy, since at first, didn't like... about 85%in got my attention. It's not the writing that determined the score but not a fan of this type of literature. If you are, you may love it.
1.75/2. Okay read towards the end.
Disclaimer: I borrowed a copy from the library and giving my honest opinion of the read.
February 27, 2023
I only liked or read the parts of the book that were about Profit & TaShara!
Everything else just seemed like a BIG OLE' MESS THAT I EITHER COULDN'T WRAP MY BRAIN AROUND OR JUST WANTED NO PARTS OF---OR BOTH!
I knew right off the bat just from their descriptions that Melanie & Python & Fat Ace may ALL BE SIBLINGS-YUCK! This will only lead to Disaster DOWN THE LINE---READERS & LISTENERS KNOW EXACTLY WHAT I MEAN.
Just as long as Profit, who sounded like a pure sexy delight in his description, isn't related to his lady love TaShara everything should be good & I'll still root for their young love!
Everything else just seemed like a BIG OLE' MESS THAT I EITHER COULDN'T WRAP MY BRAIN AROUND OR JUST WANTED NO PARTS OF---OR BOTH!
I knew right off the bat just from their descriptions that Melanie & Python & Fat Ace may ALL BE SIBLINGS-YUCK! This will only lead to Disaster DOWN THE LINE---READERS & LISTENERS KNOW EXACTLY WHAT I MEAN.
Just as long as Profit, who sounded like a pure sexy delight in his description, isn't related to his lady love TaShara everything should be good & I'll still root for their young love!
January 14, 2025
This series had me in a choke hold. I listened to them on audiobooks. Some of these people could not catch a break. These women were tough. No slow points in the book, there was a gang war raging multiple POVs. So good!
November 16, 2018
Good book
Too many characters to keep up with. It wasn't bad. Couldn't really get into it. But I do love the author.
Too many characters to keep up with. It wasn't bad. Couldn't really get into it. But I do love the author.
February 8, 2020
DDiamond doesn't play with that pen!!!
February 15, 2021
I just could not get into this book.
February 23, 2022
Quickly draws you in
October 30, 2024
Extremely raw!!!
April 2, 2025
This book had a lot going on and the characters were a hot mess. I felt bad for Profit and Ta’Shara but they just wouldn’t listen. That’s young love for you I guess.
January 31, 2020
This book caught my attention because I saw it was based out of Memphis, TN. My childrens Father was born and raised there but I have never been. So when I read upon neighborhoods and gang activity I've heard him mention, I was interested.
August 5, 2014
I have attempted to read this book several times and it just never happened. Since my semester has concluded and I absolutely refuse to start a book without finishing it, I tried again. It still took me forever to get through it. Well not forever, but it took me about two or three weeks, which is beyond the norm for me because if I'm really into a book I can finish it in 2 or 3 hours even with my busy schedule. I found that I had to force myself to read it.
I believe I had such a hard time getting into the book because of its content. There were so many levels on which I just could not relate to; I didn't want to relate to it, not even by association. It just wasn't me.
I will admit it was a very few parts that were not that bad. Sadly that was only a few of the sex scenes or the scenes where two of the main characters Ta'Shara & Prophet, interacted with each other regardless of the objection of their families.
I would describe this as a poor urban version of a "Romeo & Juliet" spin-off. Ta’Shara’s older sister, LeShelle is the sister of the HBIC of the Queen G's, who is the girlfriend of the HNIC of the Gangsta Disciples, Python, while Prophet is the little brother of the HNIC of the rivalry gang the Vice Lords, Fat Ace. The book is basically about the struggle the young couple go through when forced to choose between family and love and the struggle of women who want the attention of a man in power.
I’d give it a 3 out of 5, if I was asked to rate it. While it was not my type of story, it did contain a lot of action. I was disturbed by some of the things in the book, mainly one of the character’s obsession with snakes and disheartened by the ending but it implied a part two, which I’d purchase and read just for the hell of it. I am not familiar with the author but the book wasn’t bad enough for me to never read her material again. I’ll still give her a chance to redeem herself and despite my opinion, the book received good reviews. I just wouldn’t recommend it or re-read it.
I believe I had such a hard time getting into the book because of its content. There were so many levels on which I just could not relate to; I didn't want to relate to it, not even by association. It just wasn't me.
I will admit it was a very few parts that were not that bad. Sadly that was only a few of the sex scenes or the scenes where two of the main characters Ta'Shara & Prophet, interacted with each other regardless of the objection of their families.
I would describe this as a poor urban version of a "Romeo & Juliet" spin-off. Ta’Shara’s older sister, LeShelle is the sister of the HBIC of the Queen G's, who is the girlfriend of the HNIC of the Gangsta Disciples, Python, while Prophet is the little brother of the HNIC of the rivalry gang the Vice Lords, Fat Ace. The book is basically about the struggle the young couple go through when forced to choose between family and love and the struggle of women who want the attention of a man in power.
I’d give it a 3 out of 5, if I was asked to rate it. While it was not my type of story, it did contain a lot of action. I was disturbed by some of the things in the book, mainly one of the character’s obsession with snakes and disheartened by the ending but it implied a part two, which I’d purchase and read just for the hell of it. I am not familiar with the author but the book wasn’t bad enough for me to never read her material again. I’ll still give her a chance to redeem herself and despite my opinion, the book received good reviews. I just wouldn’t recommend it or re-read it.
June 13, 2016
Drama! Drama!! Drama!!! Sibling Drama, Baby Mama Drama, Relationship Drama! Honey just all around DRAMA! I could not put this book down. I loved how De'Nesha Diamond gave the important characters a voice. All the play makers got to tell their version of events, and it kept me wondering what the hell was going to happen next.
I loved the flashbacks. It gave just enough back story to fill in the blanks. And Momma Peaches had the best stories to tell. She had to be one of my favorite characters. She was funny as hell. Momma Peaches did what she wanted to do, and she liked her men young. When she was messing around with Arzell and his grandmother came over to get Momma Peaches straight...well that didn't happen Momma Peaches gave her some good weed and set her straight.Then to make matters worse, Arzell arse walks in the kitchen naked. Lawd I thought I was going to die laughing!!!
I also liked that the character's names were different. There was Ta'Shara and Profit, LeShelle and Python, Melanie and Python, and Yo-Yo and Python. Python seems to be the trending name in this book. That dude got around town with everyone. He was crazy as hell, always playing with them darn snakes and his weird sexual preferences. He made my skin crawl.
I am dying to start book 2. I need for LeShelle to get hers. She is always talking about loyalty, but that's only if it involves Python. She is so worried about the wife upgrade that she will destroy anyone standing in her way - including her own sister. Ta'Shara and Profit didn't ask for this drama, they were enlisted in it. And I can't wait to see how their story unfolds.
I loved the flashbacks. It gave just enough back story to fill in the blanks. And Momma Peaches had the best stories to tell. She had to be one of my favorite characters. She was funny as hell. Momma Peaches did what she wanted to do, and she liked her men young. When she was messing around with Arzell and his grandmother came over to get Momma Peaches straight...well that didn't happen Momma Peaches gave her some good weed and set her straight.Then to make matters worse, Arzell arse walks in the kitchen naked. Lawd I thought I was going to die laughing!!!
I also liked that the character's names were different. There was Ta'Shara and Profit, LeShelle and Python, Melanie and Python, and Yo-Yo and Python. Python seems to be the trending name in this book. That dude got around town with everyone. He was crazy as hell, always playing with them darn snakes and his weird sexual preferences. He made my skin crawl.
I am dying to start book 2. I need for LeShelle to get hers. She is always talking about loyalty, but that's only if it involves Python. She is so worried about the wife upgrade that she will destroy anyone standing in her way - including her own sister. Ta'Shara and Profit didn't ask for this drama, they were enlisted in it. And I can't wait to see how their story unfolds.
March 30, 2011
Rivalries,
Memphis is known for Beale Street, the Peabody Hotel and being the home of Elvis Presley. In addition, the front page and nightly news boast of the increasing murders thanks to the gang violence. The Gangster Disciples and the Vice Lords have a long standing feud amongst them. It doesn't help when Ta'Shara, a straight A student and the sister of the Queen G's starts dating Profit, the brother of the King of the Vice Lords. Can the politics die down? Or will Ta'Shara and Profit be forced to claim their sets?
Unlike her sister, LeShelle doesn't mind repping her colors, busting her gun, and riding for her GD's. Lately her position seems to be called into question as her man, Python, the King of the Gangster Disciples, seems to be spending more time with his sideline chicks. Is LeShelle willing to do whatever it takes to hold on to her title and man?
HUSTLIN' DIVAS by De'nesha Diamond is a hard-hitting crash course of street life. Laced with love, thugs, drugs and murder, readers are immediately caught up. I really liked how you meet the colorful crew and learn something about their pasts. The story moves at a good pace and has the right elements to hold readers' attention, while at times, may weaken your knees. There are some editing issues and I hate that I have to wait to see what happens next. But overall, HUSTLIN' DIVAS is a page-turner.
3.75
OOSA Online Book Club BOTM
Memphis is known for Beale Street, the Peabody Hotel and being the home of Elvis Presley. In addition, the front page and nightly news boast of the increasing murders thanks to the gang violence. The Gangster Disciples and the Vice Lords have a long standing feud amongst them. It doesn't help when Ta'Shara, a straight A student and the sister of the Queen G's starts dating Profit, the brother of the King of the Vice Lords. Can the politics die down? Or will Ta'Shara and Profit be forced to claim their sets?
Unlike her sister, LeShelle doesn't mind repping her colors, busting her gun, and riding for her GD's. Lately her position seems to be called into question as her man, Python, the King of the Gangster Disciples, seems to be spending more time with his sideline chicks. Is LeShelle willing to do whatever it takes to hold on to her title and man?
HUSTLIN' DIVAS by De'nesha Diamond is a hard-hitting crash course of street life. Laced with love, thugs, drugs and murder, readers are immediately caught up. I really liked how you meet the colorful crew and learn something about their pasts. The story moves at a good pace and has the right elements to hold readers' attention, while at times, may weaken your knees. There are some editing issues and I hate that I have to wait to see what happens next. But overall, HUSTLIN' DIVAS is a page-turner.
3.75
OOSA Online Book Club BOTM
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