Where to Start with Ayana Gray
For readers new to Ayana Gray’s storytelling, the best starting point is her acclaimed debut novel, Beasts of Prey. This book launches a continuous Young Adult (YA) fantasy trilogy that is deeply rooted in Pan-African mythology and features a fast-paced, high-stakes hunt through a magical jungle. Because the trilogy follows a singular, overarching narrative arc with ongoing character development and major cliffhangers, the books should be read in strict publication and chronological order.
Once you finish the main trilogy, you can transition to Gray's standalone novels. These works explore completely different settings and mythologies, offering a great way to experience her range as an author without any long-term series commitment.
The Beasts of Prey Trilogy in Order
Set in the majestic and dangerous Pan-African-inspired city of Lkossa and the mystical Greater Jungle, this trilogy follows Koffi, an indentured beastkeeper with hidden magical abilities, and Ekon, a disgraced warrior-in-training. Together, they form an uneasy alliance to hunt down the Shetani—a legendary, vicious monster that has plagued their land for a century.
1. Beasts of Prey (2021)
The story begins here as Koffi and Ekon first cross paths. When Koffi accidentally unleashes a dangerous magic to save her own life, and Ekon is cast out of the elite Sons of the Six after a catastrophic fire, both teens find themselves entering the forbidden Greater Jungle. Their goals align out of desperation: capture the Shetani to secure Koffi's freedom and restore Ekon's family honor. However, the jungle holds dark secrets, and the beast is not the only monster they must face.
2. Beasts of Ruin (2022)
In the second installment, the stakes escalate significantly. Koffi has been taken captive by the ruthless god of death, forced to harness her volatile magic for his dark schemes. Meanwhile, Ekon struggles to survive in a new city while carrying secrets that could destroy his bond with Koffi. The narrative expands the lore of the world, introducing new magical factions and forcing both protagonists to decide what they are willing to sacrifice for freedom.
3. Beasts of War (2024)
The trilogy reaches its epic conclusion in this final volume. Koffi and Ekon's paths have diverged, yet their fates remain bound to the survival of their world. As ancient gods clash and the threat of total war looms, they must unite their allies for a final stand. This book ties up the mysteries of Lkossa, the true origins of the Shetani, and the ultimate destiny of Koffi and Ekon.
Standalone Novels and Retellings
In addition to her YA trilogy, Ayana Gray has expanded her repertoire into adult fantasy and historical romantic fantasy. These standalone projects can be read in any order and do not connect to the Beasts of Prey universe.
I, Medusa (2025)
Published in November 2025, this novel marks Gray's debut in adult fantasy. It is a lush, feminist reimagining of the classic Greek myth of Medusa. The book explores the origin story of Meddy, tracing her transformation from a vulnerable young woman into the legendary, serpent-haired monster, reframing the gods' divine plans and examining agency, trauma, and power.
Hawk & Sparrow (2026)
Scheduled for release in September 2026, this standalone Young Adult romantic fantasy shifts settings to the industrious, Gilded Age city of Basalton. The story follows nineteen-year-old Vesper Evans, an ambitious reporter who enters a fake relationship with a wealthy, mysterious sorcerer named Maximilian Kite to solve a high-profile murder and save her newspaper. It features a rivals-to-lovers dynamic, magic-fueled class divides, and Gilded Age aesthetic vibes.
Summary Checklist: Ayana Gray Books in Publication Order
- Beasts of Prey (September 2021) – Beasts of Prey Trilogy, Book 1
- Beasts of Ruin (July 2022) – Beasts of Prey Trilogy, Book 2
- Beasts of War (January 2024) – Beasts of Prey Trilogy, Book 3
- I, Medusa (November 2025) – Standalone Adult Fantasy
- Hawk & Sparrow (September 2026) – Standalone YA Fantasy
What to Know Before You Start
Ayana Gray’s books are highly celebrated for centering Black protagonists in rich, expansive fantasy environments without focusing on racial trauma. Her world-building draws heavily from research into West African geography, folklore, and myth, which she outlines in detailed author notes at the end of her books.
For the Beasts of Prey trilogy, keep in mind that the plot relies heavily on shifting perspectives, alternating between Koffi and Ekon, which helps build suspense and layers the romantic tension. The series is excellent for fans of other African-inspired YA fantasy works, such as Tomi Adeyemi's Children of Blood and Bone or Namina Forna's The Gilded Ones.
If you are transitionining to I, Medusa, be prepared for a shift to an older target demographic, featuring more mature themes and a slower, character-driven pace typical of adult mythological retellings. Meanwhile, Hawk & Sparrow offers a cozy but high-stakes historical fantasy blend that leans heavily into mystery and romance tropes.