Queen of Urban Prophecy

by Aya de León

20-year-old Deza has always thought she had men to thank for her rap career. Now she's headlining a major, first-ever all-female tour. With a lucrative clothing endorsement deal, she's taking full advantage of 24/7 partying, endless celebrity perks, and smoking hot men. Her behavior generates tour drama, and when her female DJ quits, the label
replaces her with the last thing Deza needs: the sexy male DJ she flirted with at a club.

As Deza starts to feel the effects of her choices, her label prepares to undermine the
all-female lineup in the name of mega-profits. Then her ex tells the press Deza was just a sexy front for his genius. And when a deadly disaster reveals the clothing company is using slave labor, Deza faces the ultimate reputation crash-and-burn. Now, up against brutal industry sexism and corporate big money, she'll need the drive she had as a scrappy emcee totake a stand--and put everything on the line to make change not just for herself, but for all
women...

Genres: Fiction, Music, Audiobook, Romance, Contemporary, Feminism, Urban

291 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 28, 2021

Reviews

[Leo · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's not the first time that I get surprised over that a book revolving a lot about hip hop was emersive and hard to put down. Hip hop isn't one of my preferred music genres but Aya De Leon's writing was so easy getting invested in. An easy five stars, highly recommend

[Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

I literally devoured this book in one day! One of the booksellers at my favorite bookstore recommended it, and it was available for immediate pick up the library, so I dug in right away this weekend - and I’m so glad I did! I love Deza: she’s smart, funny, and learning how to deal with sudden fame after working so hard at her craft - headlining a massive tour at the last minute when the scheduled headliner has to pull out. Aya de León has created a story set in music that weaves the themes of social justice, misogyny, and trauma together, and brings us these wonderful multi-faceted characters that you can’t help falling in love with.

One thing I really loved was how the storyline progresses: the reader realizes just how strong and powerful Deza is at the same time Deza does. I really enjoyed how the main storyline of the tour and the events surrounding it are interspersed with flashbacks to Deza’s childhood, it really helps to understand how Deza has become the person she is, and what she constantly has to fight against.

If you are looking for a book that is going to pull you in right away and that you won’t be able to put down until you reach the end - then this is one for you!

[Misse Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for gifting me a copy in exchange for my honest review.

One of things I enjoyed most about this book is that I think in so many ways it places the author’s depth of writing skills on display. She covered a wealth of issues in this novel including: racial equality, social justice concerns, verbal and physical abuse, alcoholism, sexual abuse, child labor, big corporation, misogyny, and a host of others. All of which were produced eloquently and in a way for the reader to receive the vital messaging.

Queen Of Urban Prophecy is a tale largely about 20-year-old rapper Deja and is her coming of age story. Deja hasn’t had the easiest life but she’s persevered beyond her upbringing with parents who left her and her sister on their own as they were growing up. She’s credited her career to date to men who she believes are responsible for her successes to date. When she’s asked to headline a major all-female tour things couldn’t be more perfect. That is until her female DJ quits and Deja is left with a male DJ, Damien, who she’s had run-ins with but initially would rather not work with. But when Damien and Deja bond over music it calls into question her long term off and on again relationship to her ex, what it means to be a rapper/entertainer, and how to use a platform to make a difference.

I enjoyed the tension build between Deja and Damien. Damien is swoon-worthy. He becomes the stability Deja needs to walk into the next chapter of her life, all while creating space for his own dreams.

An overall great read with plenty of moving pieces that make it fast-paced and unforgettable! I enjoyed the is book even better than A Spy in The Struggle and look forward to the next.

[Nathaniel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel really stuck with me. Aya de Leon has a strong voice and she uses it well.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was really surprised by this one. It was a good listen to get through the day. I thought it would be bored but the characters, their relationships, conversations and topics important to them to incorporate into their art was entertaining and refreshing. Hollywood is so fake, artists say anything to appeal to the masses, it was nice reading about characters who haven’t been jaded by the industry and are concerned with what’s happening in their communities.
I liked the following they on tour and seeing Damian and Deza have so many cute moments. I think if you enjoyed this authors book A Spy in the Struggle or Muted or other music related titles you’ll enjoy this

[Anna Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was mesmerized by Deza, her journey, and the incredible writing. It incorporates climate Justice themes in a way that feels very authentic to the story and complicated characters, is incredibly creative, and makes for great entertainment. I loved how the author took Deza on this transformative journey from vague interest to curiosity to passion and conviction and power. And how seamlessly she weaves the interconnections between climate, racial injustice, misogyny, the abuses and corruption of capitalism, art, music, and more - into one fascinating and cohesive story. What a phenomenal talent the author has for communicating the urgency and intersections of climate injustice in an emotionally gripping and entertaining way. I also LOVED the catharsis of music and the role it played in Deza finding her voice on climate, Black Lives Matter, and so much more. It's such a wonderful example of the kind of creative, captivating & transformative climate stories we desperately need more of.

[Lakecia Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent writing and creating a novel that the reader could connect to! I am anxious to read more from Aya de Léon! She created Deza, a feminine force to be reckoned with, and gave us a story about racial equality, police brutality, climate awareness, domestic violence, statutory rape, misogyny, and child labor slavery. Truly a oage turner that kept me hoping that Deza would not fail in her music endeavors and her struggle with the fame. And Damian....made me feel like chivalry is not dead!

[Tamyka · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a surprisingly good read. I picked it up not knowing what it was about nor being familiar with the author so I went in very blind. This is a cute romance. There is a LOT going on in this book but it’s a good thing because it all makes sense and nothing seemed like a stretch or unlikely. I think the character development for the protagonist was very well done. I recommend this to anyone that likes hip hop, romances, or women MCs or has any interest in social justice movements

[Aarika · Rating 5 out of 5]

Black Girl Magic

The book while dealing with police brutality is still a love story of self underneath. I enjoyed the scenes for the tour while getting to see the main character evolve and grow into her Black girl magic! Thank you for writing such a amazing book!

[Nathalie Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved everything about this book & devoured it. So sad I finished it, will be thinking about it for a while 🩷 it’s a must read!

[Litsplaining · Rating 4 out of 5]

I gave this book 3.5 stars•

This book pulls off the musician trope very well. Much like my previous read, American Royalty by Tracey Livesay, Aya de León excels at creating a fictional rap star that her readers can believe exist alongside the Nickis, Megans, and Cardis and it not feel forced. What’s more, de León shows readers the other side of becoming an activist with Deza.

In a time when BLM leaders are under fire for shady business dealings, having a character like Deza who is trying to navigate the waters of being an “urban prophet” with merely existing was genius on de León’s part. Overall, de León’s character feel gritty and raw. Honestly, I feel like I’d actually like to hear actual music from Deza.

I can see this being a straight to TV movie made by BET.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting one to follow up Tell Me I'm An Artist with: two books about a 20-year-old woman who grew up poor with an unsupportive mother, now trying to find her place in the art world. (Also, pink covers.) They could not be more different in style, setting, and genre expectations (self-focused litfic vs a romance that engages with justice issues) but they covered a lot of the same ground: how do I make this career work? Am I good enough or did I just get lucky? Where do I draw my boundaries with my chaotic family?

Loved Deza's journey here - from accidentally famous and questioning her place in the industry to decidedly deserving of it. And Damian's complementary one alongside her, to being sure of where he wants to take his art.

The social issues and activism they're grappling with are woven in with the music business and artistry storylines, definitely something I really like about de Leon's books is the way she makes it clear that everything is connected, and that these issues aren't abstract concerns but real things that shape the characters' lives. It's all done in the characters' voices and doesn't feel pedantic. And she gives these characters power to take on big issues without making anything unrealistically easy.

[Tiffany Tyler · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book truly surprised me. It was a nice escape for a weekend read, yet touched on a few serious issues that are a part of our everyday real-life conversations. The name dropping was tad too excessive and I will assume the author did it to hold people’s attention, however it was unnecessary.

Manipulation & misogyny are consistent themes throughout the book, and a woman doesn’t need to be an entertainer to relate. There was a good balance of drama, romance, and entertainment to make it a page turner. Ultimately, it was a story of a woman growing, evolving, and finding her own voice.

[Lommie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hip-hop is about storytelling. It is a creation of a new style of self-expression. This is the reason why this book has caught my attention. It is a rare opportunity to satisfy my desire for music-literary entertainment and inspiration.

The story begins when a female rapper’s label records promotion turns out to be a headliner on a first-ever all female national tour.

Deza Darling is a young female hip-hop superstar from Brooklyn. Her career progression as a rapper strikes when one of her song has made a surprising impact to the African-American community. Her stardom crashed like an avalanche when her first single album rocketed to the top of the billboard charts.

When fame and success has manifested in her, Deza fights for what she deserves. She has embraced her power to promote justice by supporting an international social movement – Black Lives Matter. Now that she feels she can face anything that comes her way until her label prepares to undermine under an all-female line up in the name of mega-profits.

Can she learn how to use her platform effectively for activism in behalf of the Black Lives and climate justice?

An author who is new to me - Aya de Leon, has beautifully written real issues faced by African-American community. Through the eyes of Deza and as a reader, I see a glimpse of creative and extraordinary minds of music artists (in general) and an activist who advocates for social change. She has provided a great insight about this kind of community.

I love this book in a way how it weaves a page-flipping story about a character’s relationship with the community, family, friends, colleagues and producing her own art in hip-hop. On the other hand, the romance part is secondary. The crafting of the main characters’ love story has kept me rooting for them until the very end. The connection of Deza with her Puerto Rican guy love interest feels wondrous as I follow their love story through their work dynamics as professionals in music entertainment industry.

Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington Books for this opportunity to read an ARC in exchange of unbiased review.

[Lommie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hip-hop is about storytelling. It is a creation of a new style of self-expression. This is the reason why this book has caught my attention. It is a rare opportunity to satisfy my desire for music-literary entertainment inspiration.

The story begins when a female rapper’s label records promotion turns out to be a headliner on a first-ever all female national tour.

Deza Darling is a young female hip-hop superstar from Brooklyn. Her career progression as a rapper strikes when one of her song has made a surprising impact to the African-American community. Her stardom crashed like an avalanche when her first single album rocketed to the top of the billboard charts.

When fame and success has resonated in her, Deza fights for what she deserves. She has embraced her power to promote justice by supporting an international social movement – Black Lives Matter. Now that she feels she can face anything that comes her way until her label prepares to undermine under an all-female line up in the name of mega-profits.

Can she learn how to use her platform effectively for activism in behalf of the Black Lives and climate justice?

An author who is new to me – Aya de Leon, has beautifully written real issues faced by African-American community. Through the eyes of Deza and as a reader, I see a glimpse of creative and extraordinary minds of music artists (in general) and an activist who advocates for social change. She has provided a great insight about this kind of community.

I love this book in a way how it weaves a page-flipping story about a character’s relationship with the community, family, friends, colleagues and producing her own art in hip-hop. On the other hand, the romance part is secondary. The crafting of the main characters’ love story has kept me rooting for them until the very end. The connection of Deza with her Puerto Rican guy love interest feels wondrous as I follow their love story through their work dynamics as professionals in music entertainment industry.

Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington Books for this opportunity to read an ARC in exchange of unbiased review.

[Quira · Rating 4 out of 5]

I quite enjoyed Deza’s development and growth. The flashback scenes of her tumultuous childhood, and the hunger for success, which to me is the spirit of hip hop. I like that this was topical about real issues (BLM, police brutality, climate change, child labor, abuse), and how some think Black women gotta do all the work for every cause, and if things go wrong then it’s “You were supposed to save us!” like hello BW are not your mule!

However, some parts felt like a PG-13 DCOM or a MTV movie like Save The Last Dance. I don’t mean that in a negative sense, but with the references to real life celebrities scattered throughout and the ties to social media it gave me that vibe. It’s just a personal thing when I hear real names dropped, like how do we know Megan was gonna work with Deza lol?? But if BET ever wants to be great again and pick this up as a TV movie, perhaps getting Cardi, Megan or Noname for a cameo I’d be here for it.

I feel like no one on the tour besides Damian had Deza’s back, like fully had her back. Luckily offstage she had her fans, her aunt, and mentor. Reminded me of how most women in music really do only have themselves most times. The men in the industry (including radio) in this book are so crap, which was pretty damn realistic. The amount of misogynoir women in rap face consistently, speaking of Megan Thee Stallion…as we’ve seen. The rapper boyfriends/husbands who embarrass their girl publicly, especially after they get caught messing up, I remember a certain Migo doing that. And another of the Migos getting caught looking verbally abusive on camera to another woman rapper. Just saying, Aya got it spot on.

Last note; the romance was kinda there for me, I honestly could see her and Damien being just friends and good colleagues/collaborators. It was cute, but I wasn’t swooning. Maybe later down the line they can do the true love thing. Otherwise this was well written, intentional, and I enjoyed the audiobook being the author’s voice. 4.0

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.

Queen of Urban Prophecy is, by Aya de Leon’s own admission, a departure from her other work, in that it’s pure contemporary focused on social justice issues and romance, without the thriller elements of her past work. Given I had read only one of those books prior, I had little to compare to, so I can only praise de Leon’s versatility as a writer, crossing genres with relative ease.

I really enjoyed the insights I got into the rap side of the music world, particularly the misogynoir a young Black female rapper like Deza faces. She’s questioned for her inexperience and the need to prove her worth, and while I’m hardly well-versed in this industry, I could empathize with Deza as she was met with so much opposition. I also appreciate her using her voice to discuss not just that issue, but the broader one of systemic racism at the heart of the Black Lives Matter movement.

I did find the romance to be the weakest element of the story overall, but I suppose it was more in comparison to how well developed Deza was in her own right. It is very much a secondary, and I’ve often stated how secondary romances can be hit-or-miss for me. I did appreciate that their relationship had a solid foundation to it, with them having a history as friends.

This is an enjoyable, fast paced read, and I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a book focused on the contemporary music industry.

[Hannah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Deza is an up and coming rap artist, who has gained instant fame with her song “Almost Home.” The song focuses on a black girl walking home and ends up getting shot by police. Coincidentally, after the song is released a black girl by the same name is shot and killed by police when walking home. This earns Deza the name “Urban Prophet” and her fans wonder what she will predict next. The book jumps back and forth between her time living with her abusive mother and her current tour where she is struggling to get the lyrics to her next hit song and show the world that she is a great rap artist and not a fluke. The book isn’t bad, but it takes on a lot of social and political issues that aren’t all fleshed out and then there’s a love triangle that feels really forced. I think I would have enjoyed the book more if Deza was more independent and she and Damian had more of a professional friendship instead of a “will they or won’t they.” Deza is a complicated character and I think more could have been done with her character arc as an artist, but I did like how she handled different situations in the book to shut down haters and trolls.

[Derek Siegel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easily my favorite book from Aya de León since her first two, "Uptown Thief" and "The Boss." At her best, de León integrates social justice themes into her novels more seamlessly than almost anyone else on the market. In the Queen of Urban Prophecy, the protagonist (Deza) skyrockets to fame, navigate sexism in the music industry & the fucked-up-ness that is capitalism (as well as how to use her platform to support the movement for Black lives). Deza is young, still learning about herself & the kind of music she wants to make, and still healing from childhood traumas (particularly around her relationship with her mom); de León ties this altogether with snappy dialogue and romantic pairings that are easy to root for. I also love that main characters from previous novels become supporting characters in future ones (hey Aunt Tyesha!).Sure, there might not be anything groundbreaking about the plot or the characters, but de León has never gotten enough attention for her writing! In fact, I was thrilled to pick up a copy of this at the airport during my layover.

[Kelsie Maxwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Queen of Urban Prophecy is urban lit by Aya de León.

What she considers to be a coincidence leaves rapper Deza Starling branded the Queen of Urban Prophecy by the media. When she embarks on a tour of female artists, is she embarking on the path to her success or the road to ruin?

Aya de León continues her successful writing career with another beautifully written novel. Her characters here are well-rounded and believable. The plot is compelling. Both the narrative and dialogue flow smoothly. Her subject matter is well-researched. The touch of romance adds just the right amount of depth. I have read other works by this author and continue to be impressed by her mastery of urban lit. Queen of Urban Prophecy is a 5 out of 5 star read that I highly recommend to readers who enjoy multicultural interest fiction with a romantic bent.

My thanks to Kensington Books, Dafina, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.

[Arelle Vee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I walked into this book expecting to be entertained, expecting to be educated. And honestly, I truly was. But I didn’t bank on the MC, Deza, being one of the most heartwarming protagonists who just made me root from her time and again.

This book, which relies more upon dialogue and action than on internal monologue, showcased the MC time and time again showing her genuineness, showing how she wanted to make good choices to make an impact on her followers, showing that she is someone worthy of love.

And Damian, what a swoon-worthy male lead. I love the friends to lovers trope, and this did not disappoint.

One of the best aspects of the book is how the author was able to make a statement about mysogynoir, the music industry, climate change, child labor and sweet shop corporations, politics, and toxic/abusive relationships in such a seamless way through Deza.

I binged this entire story in about a day.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this eARC.

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who has loved the social justice themes in Aya de León's books, I cannot believe that it took me this long to get to Queen of Urban Prophesy. While there is a romance here, the main focus is on Deza, a female rap star who accidentally predicts the murder of a young Black woman by the police. As a result, she is forced into the limelight. While going through this, she struggles with the public view of her, the expectations, the misogyny in the rap world, the sexism, as well as a romantic life in turmoil.

Each theme is so expertly blended into a beautiful story! Deza is larger than life and also incredibly human. She makes mistakes, and yet we can't help but completely understand her. Damian is the perfect hero. He also makes some mistakes, but when it really matters, her makes all the right choices. I could not help but completely fall in love with him and Deza.

I highly recommend the audiobook. It is read by the author and is really well done.

[Carolyn Lee Arnold · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hip hop women empowering themselves and each other!
Don’t you need to read a book in which intelligent African American women succeed in the hip hop business with all their quick wits and vulnerability? In which the hip hop lyrics they write focus on police violence against women, love found and love betrayed, and misogamy in hip hop? With a sweet and realistic love story as well? You do! I learned so much about how smart you have to be to write hip hop lyrics, and gained an appreciation for hip hop and the performer’s life. The novel includes a rich range of African American women’s thoughts, feelings, and lives, as well as current glimpse of the role of social media in making or breaking artists. The perfect story, delightfully told, and so satisfying and heartening to read.
Note: The audio version is read by the author—an additional treat!

[Keli · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want a story that tackles current social issues combined with rap music and a bit of romance, this is the perfect read!

I don't read much contemporary fiction, but I fell in love with this book. Queen of Urban Prophecy discusses feminism, black lives matter, and other hot topic issues, and still manages to have an engaging plot that kept my attention throughout.

I also really enjoyed the incorporation of music/creative rap lyrics! It was written so well that I could actually hear and feel the music while I was reading (I could not sit still on my couch), and then it would get stuck in my head for hours.

[Shannan Harper · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book shows how much mysogyny is in music, especially among rap artists. At the beginning, it felt like it was going to be another "this is why women can't come together and colaborate without drama", but it eventually grew from that. This was a nice, quick and easy read that I was able to get through in one sitting. It also had just the right amout of romance with a friends to loves troupe. I especially loved how the main character was a down to earth social activist in her own way.

I recieved a copy of the book via Netgalley and am voluntarily leving an honest review of my own thoughts and opinions

[Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

I randomly found this book through the library and I'm so happy I did. This book was such a quick, fun easy read. Deza, the protagonist, is a captivating character—smart, funny, and navigating sudden fame as she steps in to headline a massive tour. Aya de León masterfully intertwines themes of social justice, misogyny, and trauma against a backdrop of the music industry, creating a cast of multi-faceted characters that you can't help but adore. The progression of Deza's journey is compelling; we witness her strength and growth alongside her, particularly through poignant flashbacks to her childhood. If you're seeking a book that is just purly entertaining this is for you.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This feels like a "coming of age" story for all of us still trying to figure it out in our 20s and 30s... The complexity of trying to find our own way out of the trauma of the world and our childhoods to find the job and life choices and partners that make sense. Trying to let go of the relationshipsb and patterns that once kept us safe but no longer serve us. Hearing the author's note, I am so grateful she went back to add more complexity and subtly to the characters and the story, it really is a wonderful read.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t know much about hip hop, but this book did an excellent job of introducing me to elements and nuances of that culture in ways that brought me in. The pressures of sex and gender, violence, turf, style, region, and money/ fame were woven into the character-driven story of Deza and her drive to make music and create a life for herself. Family dynamics were important and a nice counterpoint to the business side of the story. Overall, I was both entertained, educated, and there were elements of social justice woven in. That’s a win for me.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a contemporary novel about a young rapper on a cross-country tour. I thought Deza was a great character - she makes some silly decisions because she's young and she puts a lot of pressure on herself but she's smart and funny and passionate. The other characters are a bit more thinly drawn but they mostly do the job. Unfortunately I found the love interest kind of wishy-washy and boring, so the romance aspect didn't really do anything for me.

[Christine Comito · Rating 4 out of 5]

Young up-and-coming hip-hop artist Deza's song about a Black girl shot by the police rockets to the top of the charts when a Black girl by the same name actually gets shot by the police. Deza is suddenly offered to headline a tour of female rappers and is thrust into fame headfirst and learns to navigate friendship, love and family, while learning how to work with Black Lives Matter supporters and how not to accept an endorsement from a shady company.
Entertaining and wholly believable story