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Synopses & Reviews
"Rich in magic and mythos, Beasts of Prey is a feast for all the senses." — Ren e Ahdieh, New York Times bestselling author of The Beautiful
In this much-anticipated series opener, fate binds two Black teenagers together as they strike a dangerous alliance to hunt down the creature menacing their home — and uncover ancient deadly secrets.
There's no such thing as magic in the broken city of Lkossa, especially for sixteen-year-old Koffi, who holds a power within her that could only be described as magic--a power that if discovered could cost her life. Indentured to the notorious Night Zoo, Koffi knows the fearsome creatures in her care and paying off her family's debts to secure their eventual freedom can be her only focus. But the night those she loves are gravely threatened by the Zoo's cruel master, Koffi finally unleashes the power she doesn't fully understand, upending her life completely.
As the second son of a decorated hero, Ekon is all but destined to become a Son of the Six — an elite warrior — and uphold a family legacy. But on the night of his final rite of passage, Ekon encounters not only the Shetani — a vicious monster that has plagued the city for nearly a century and stalks his nightmares, but Koffi who seems to have the power to ward off the beast. Koffi's power ultimately saves Ekon's life, but his choice to let her flee dooms his hopes of becoming a warrior.
Desperate to redeem himself, Ekon vows to hunt the Shetani and end its reign of terror, but he can't do it alone. Meanwhile, Koffi believes finding the Shetani could also be the key to solving her own problems. Koffi and Ekon form a tentative alliance and together enter the Greater Jungle, a world steeped in wild, frightening magic and untold dangers. The hunt begins. But it quickly becomes unclear whether they are the hunters or the hunted.
Review
"This pan-African story, rife with betrayal and narrated through poetic language that evokes vivid imagery, will ensnare readers, keeping them engaged with its energetic pace. The beautiful blend of mythology, romance, and action ends with a hint at more to come... A dazzling debut." Kirkus Reviews, starred review
Review
"Rich in magic and mythos, Beasts of Prey is a feast for all the senses. Prepare to be transported to Koffi's world from the first page, and find yourself lost not only in the dark thrill of the hunt but the poignant beats of emotion at the heart of this story. Gray's writing is lyrical, her imagery vivid. I eagerly await whatever she pens next." Renée Ahdieh, New York Times bestselling author of The Beautiful
Review
"Epic doesn't begin to encompass the jolting twists, sparkling mythos, and magical quests that fill the pages of Beasts of Prey. This is the sort of read that's beyond transportive, it's downright transcending — a tale full of heart and magic, and sure to ensorcell readers body, bone and soul." Roshani Chokshi, New York Times bestselling author of The Gilded Wolves
Review
"A magical, bingeable debut by a phenomenal new voice in YA. Beasts of Prey is an immersive and heartfelt book with characters whose personalities seep from the pages. From its beautiful prose to its rich and vibrant world, this book is your next favorite read." Adalyn Grace, New York Times bestselling author of All the Stars and Teeth
Review
"Steeped in rich worldbuilding and resonating with keenly drawn emotional depth, Beasts of Prey features masterful twists, heart-pounding action, and unforgettable characters you will want to follow to the end of the world and back. I grew lost in this book from the very first page." Margaret Rogerson, bestselling author of Sorcery of Thorns
Review
"The protagonists achieve a rich emotional depth complemented by the fast-paced action, and a light romantic element lends the plot additional support... imaginative debut." Publishers Weekly
About the Author
Ayana Gray is an author of speculative works and lover of all things monsters, mythos, and #MelaninMagic. Originally from Atlanta, she now lives in sunny Florida, where she reads avidly, follows Formula One racing, and worries over her adopted baby black rhino, Apollo. Beasts of Prey is her debut novel.