Step into the electrifying underworld of The Cartel, where Miami’s cocaine trade pulses with danger, loyalty, and betrayal! Penned by the dynamic duo Ashley and JaQuavis Coleman, this New York Times bestselling Street Lit series hooks readers with its raw, gritty tales of the Diamond family’s rise and fall. From steamy romances to shocking plot twists, The Cartel is a rollercoaster you won’t want to exit.
Blending crime, passion, and family drama, the series captures the chaotic allure of urban life. With roots in the authors’ own experiences on the tough streets of Flint, Michigan, The Cartel feels authentic, pulling no punches as it explores the high-stakes world of drug empires. Ready to dive into this thrilling saga? Let’s unpack its origins, stories, and lasting impact!
How The Cartel Began
Ashley and JaQuavis Coleman, a married couple from Flint, Michigan, burst onto the Street Lit scene at just 17, discovered by bestselling author Carl Weber. Their debut novel, Dirty Money, was a hit, but it was The Cartel, launched in 2008, that cemented their fame. Drawing from their firsthand knowledge of urban struggles, the Colemans crafted a vivid world inspired by Miami’s cocaine trade, weaving tales that resonate with authenticity and heart-pounding suspense.
The series, initially planned as a trilogy, grew into a sprawling saga due to its massive fanbase. The Colemans’ ability to channel their past into fiction, combined with their knack for fast-paced storytelling, made The Cartel a standout. Their youth and shared vision—writing their first novel in just three weeks—fueled a literary phenomenon that’s now eyed for film and TV adaptations.
The Heart of The Cartel
The Cartel series kicks off with The Cartel (2008), where the death of ruthless kingpin Carter Diamond sends shockwaves through Miami’s drug scene. His wife, Taryn, and children grapple with his legacy, while his secret illegitimate son, Carter Jones, steps into the chaos. Enter Miamor, a stunning contract killer leading the Murder Mamas, whose quest for revenge against the Cartel sparks a forbidden romance with Carter Jones—talk about sleeping with the enemy!
Tale of the Murda Mamas (2009) dives deeper, with betrayals threatening the Diamond family as Miamor’s crew faces off against their empire. Cartel 3: The Final Chapter (2010) ups the ante, with Miamor kidnapped and Carter in federal custody, leaving the empire to Zyir and Mecca. The series, spanning seven main books, a sequel, a spin-off, and prequels, explores themes of loyalty, vengeance, and the cost of power, all set against Miami’s vibrant, dangerous backdrop.
The Colemans’ style is unapologetically bold, blending noir tones with vivid details—like the scent of cocaine and baking soda in a crack workshop. Love, betrayal, and family ties drive the narrative, while the urban setting amplifies the stakes. Characters evolve dramatically, from Carter’s fall from kingpin to Miamor’s shift from cold killer to conflicted lover, making readers question the blurred lines between right and wrong.
Why The Cartel Resonates
The Cartel’s impact on Street Lit is undeniable, elevating Ashley and JaQuavis as genre trailblazers. Its raw portrayal of urban life—drug trafficking, murder, and ambition—mirrors real-world struggles, particularly for Black and Latino communities, resonating with readers who see their realities reflected. The series’ cultural relevance, paired with its addictive drama, has earned it a global fanbase and critical acclaim, landing the Colemans on Ebony’s Power 100 list.
Beyond entertainment, The Cartel challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about survival and morality. Its blend of romance, crime, and suspense keeps fans hooked, while the Colemans’ authentic voice ensures the series remains a cornerstone of contemporary urban literature. With potential screen adaptations looming, The Cartel’s legacy is far from over.
- About The Cartel
- Publication: 2008–present
- Books: Seven main novels, plus prequels and spin-offs
- Authors: Ashley and JaQuavis Coleman
- Genre: Street Lit/Urban Fiction
- Awards: New York Times bestsellers, Ebony Power 100 recognition
Grab The Cartel and dive into Miami’s thrilling underworld! Whether you’re a Street Lit fan or just love a good crime saga, this series will keep you on the edge of your seat!