So, with her stock on the rise (she has a Little Women remix coming out later this year), Bethany drops A Chorus Rises on us. And being able to bang out compelling fantasy based on those ideals and passions, turning them into a protest song, into her Mississippi Goddamn, well, that’s her magical ability. Her wicked sense of humor is totally on point, and her passion regarding social upheaval and exposing a country that systematically oppresses/abuses/murders its Black populace, is thoughtful, razor sharp, and inspiring. I’ve never met Bethany, probably never will, but I’ve watched enough interviews, panels, and launch events to know that she’s a brilliant person, full of wit, charm, and zeal.

Morrow who, full disclosure, I have a huge author crush on. That book was my introduction to Bethany C. And I don’t mean Top 50, I mean like out of all the books I read last year (a lot) the story of Tavia and Effie was in the top two or three. Ī Song Below Water was one of my favorite books of 2020, the year that was. When a new, flourishing segment of Naema’s online supporters start targeting black girls, however, Naema must discover the true purpose of her magical voice. But Naema knows the truth and is determined to build herself back up - no matter what. No one understands her side: not her boyfriend, not her friends, nor her Eloko community. Everyone loves her - well, until she’s cast as the awful person who exposed Tavia’s secret siren powers. Teen influencer Naema Bradshaw has it all: she’s famous, privileged, has “the good hair”- and she’s an Eloko, a person who’s gifted with a song that woos anyone who hears it. With an incredible main character and a blistering commentary, A Chorus Rises strikes that perfect balance between entertaining and socially responsible. Morrow is back with her new book, A Chorus Rises, a brilliant follow-up to her modern fantasy masterpiece A Song Below Water, that not only expands on its predecessor’s messaging, but once again dazzles us with Bethany’s remarkable skill as a storyteller.

A chorus rises