Joy Keys chats with Author Ayana Gray about Beasts of Prey

Ayana Gray is a New York Times and Indie bestselling author of speculative fiction and a lover of all things monsters, mythos, and #MelaninMagic. Originally from Atlanta, she now lives in Little Rock, Arkansas where she reads avidly, follows Formula One racing, and worries over the varying moods of her adopted baby black rhino, Apollo, and her mini goldendoodle, Dolly. Her debut novel, BEASTS OF PREY, is being adapted for film by Netflix.

Penguin Young Readers is excited to present the most anticipated young adult novel of the year from breakout debut author Ayana Gray. BEASTS OF PREY (G.P. Putnam’s Sons BFYR; On Sale September 28, 2021) is the thrilling series opener that begins in the way all the best YA novels do: by striking a deal. Two teens agree to work together to track down a dangerous, ancient creature who plagues their city before they themselves become the hunted. Inspired by African mythology, Gray has woven a fast-paced fantasy filled with monsters, mythos, and a slow-burn romance that will leave readers clamoring for more.