After leaving us absolutely breathless with her hit novel, I, Medusa, we’ve all been wondering what Ayana Gray had planned next. Was it another series like her Beasts of Prey trilogy? Is it another re-telling that definitely would mesmerize us yet again? Or was she showing off a different side of her and her writing with a brand-new tale that will no doubt fly off the shelves like her last successes. Luckily for us, the time for wondering is over as Ayana is finally sharing what her next big project is.
Cosmopolitan is exclusively revealing Ayana Gray’s Hawk & Sparrow, a brand-new YA novel that is set to be released on September 1, 2026 in the United States. UK readers will also get the chance to pick it up on September 3, 2026. The novel follows young reporter Vesper Evans who decides to not just report on the story of the season that is shaking up Basalton’s high society in the Gilded Age, but actually be a part of it. Here’s some more info from our friends at Balzer + Bray:
This deluxe limited edition features gorgeous stenciled edges, elaborate printed ends, and stunning foiled case.
Sparks fly in this Gilded Age novel of mystery, magic, and romance by the author of the New York Times–bestselling Beasts of Prey.
Nineteen-year-old Vesper Evans has always resented Basalton’s high society, and the sorcery that provides them with a luxurious life unimaginable to most. Orphaned as a child and rescued by the editor of the Basalton Globe, Vesper is now an ambitious reporter determined to keep her newspaper afloat.
While covering a lavish society gala, she happens upon a shocking scene: the murdered body of an inventor whose new machine promised to bring the benefits of sorcery to everyone. Several of the powerful magical elite may want the man dead, but the prime suspect is the wealthy industrialist, Maximilian Kite.
Max soon makes Vesper a tempting offer: find the culprit and restore his reputation in exchange for a substantial fee. Despite her distaste for Max’s world, Vesper agrees—the money would save the Globe, and the story would be the scoop of a lifetime. There’s only one catch: in order for her to infiltrate society, the two must pose as a courting couple.
Their investigation takes them from the highest echelons of privilege to the seediest backstreets of Basalton. As they unearth the city’s secrets and scandals, Vesper finds herself in grave danger—while falling for one of the most infuriating, arrogant, and handsome men she has ever met . . .
Yes, we didn’t forget that little announcement about a deluxe limited edition, which you’ll absolutely want to get your hands on right after release! Of course, with a book that takes place in high society, it definitely has to look like it would fit in (and pop on our shelves, obvs). You can check it out below in all it’s stunning glory:
"I'm so happy to share the US cover of my next novel, Hawk & Sparrow,” Ayana exclusively told Cosmopolitan. “From the bold red coloring that captures its autumnal atmosphere, to the clever nods to specific story elements, it's everything I'd hoped for and more!”
Is there any way for us to get those end pages as a wallpaper? Just asking for a friend!
We can’t wait to see what Vesper uncovers this story and clears Max’s name. Don’t forget to pre-order Hawk & Sparrow and even pick up some of Ayana’s other reads to make the wait until its release a bit easier.
Hawk & Sparrow, by Ayana Gray will be released on September 1, 2026 from Balzer + Bray. To preorder the book, click on the retailer of your choice:
AMAZON AUDIBLE BARNES & NOBLE BOOKS-A-MILLION BOOKSHOP APPLE BOOKS KOBO LIBRO.FM TARGET WALMART POWELL'S BOOKS HUDSON BOOKSELLERS GOOGLE PLAY EBOOKS.COM
