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We Are Hunted
The White Lotus meets Jurassic Park in We Are Hunted by Tomi Oyemakinde, a compulsive speculative thriller about the lengths we go to for power - and to survive.
When seventeen-year-old Femi and his brother accompany their father on a top-secret business trip to a remote and mysterious island, they are looking forward to a summer they'll never forget.
Filled with spectacular species of animal and out-of-this-world technology, the island resort welcomes them with open arms, as does its impressive curator Richard Jenkins. But beneath the sparkle and the wonder, the island is hiding a terrible secret - and it's biding its time. When the unthinkable happens and the island is put on lockdown, Femi realizes he is somehow at the centre of an operation that seeks to expose Jenkins' resort for what it really is.
But the truth comes with a price. And when the bodies start to fall, Femi must decide who on the island he can trust with his life - and how far he will go to survive.
When seventeen-year-old Femi and his brother accompany their father on a top-secret business trip to a remote and mysterious island, they are looking forward to a summer they'll never forget.
Filled with spectacular species of animal and out-of-this-world technology, the island resort welcomes them with open arms, as does its impressive curator Richard Jenkins. But beneath the sparkle and the wonder, the island is hiding a terrible secret - and it's biding its time. When the unthinkable happens and the island is put on lockdown, Femi realizes he is somehow at the centre of an operation that seeks to expose Jenkins' resort for what it really is.
But the truth comes with a price. And when the bodies start to fall, Femi must decide who on the island he can trust with his life - and how far he will go to survive.
320 pages, Paperback
First published August 29, 2024
12 people are currently reading
4120 people want to read
About the author
Tomi Oyemakinde
2 books75 followersTomi Oyemakinde grew up in London, before being uprooted at the age of 6 to head across the North Sea to the Netherlands. He is committed to crafting stories centered on Black protagonists thriving across genres, audiences & worlds. When Tomi is not busy writing, he can be found daydreaming about his future dog (namely a Rottweiler named Pan) and geeking out over all things anime. The Changing Man is his debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
April 4, 2024
MY THOUGHTS:
This book was pretty good! Definite Jurassic Park vibe that I found to be more sci-fi than horror in genre. With that being said, I thought this was a fast-paced, well written YA book that 12 year old me would have loved. I liked the timeline marking chapters. I thought they helped keep the story moving and also showed how quickly events spiraled out of control. However, the interlude chapters seemed off and I could have went without most of them. I felt that they didn’t really add anything to the story overall, and we could have learned any of the information provided in them through character interaction. Thank you to the author and publisher for the ARC/ eGalley of this book in exchange for my honest review.
GENERAL VIBES: YA, vacation gone wrong, chronological timeline, bpoc main character
This book was pretty good! Definite Jurassic Park vibe that I found to be more sci-fi than horror in genre. With that being said, I thought this was a fast-paced, well written YA book that 12 year old me would have loved. I liked the timeline marking chapters. I thought they helped keep the story moving and also showed how quickly events spiraled out of control. However, the interlude chapters seemed off and I could have went without most of them. I felt that they didn’t really add anything to the story overall, and we could have learned any of the information provided in them through character interaction. Thank you to the author and publisher for the ARC/ eGalley of this book in exchange for my honest review.
GENERAL VIBES: YA, vacation gone wrong, chronological timeline, bpoc main character
September 23, 2024
This had so many things that COULD have added up to a really good story. Main character with tinnitus; fraught family dynamics; some cool visual elements in the text; lots of potential for gore/body horror; ghosts???; rich people finally seeing consequences…
Instead, we didn’t linger on any of the potentially interesting or engaging descriptions (gore or otherwise), the dialogue was stiff and awkward, the visual elements were few and far between (and usually referencing the same vibe, which made them feel repetitive), the pacing was off with the “before” taking up way too much book; Femi was a brat; very preachy Christianity that in my opinion has no place in a book that should also have body horror (unless there’s a cult involved; I make an exception for cults).
The ending feels unresolved. And not in a “we could make a sequel” way but more in a “we want this to seem edgy and mysterious” kind of way that honestly just falls flat.
I will be forever mourning the lack of body horror and gore because it could have been epic. Oh well.
{Thank you FierceReads for the complementary copy in exchange for my honest review; all thoughts are my own}
Instead, we didn’t linger on any of the potentially interesting or engaging descriptions (gore or otherwise), the dialogue was stiff and awkward, the visual elements were few and far between (and usually referencing the same vibe, which made them feel repetitive), the pacing was off with the “before” taking up way too much book; Femi was a brat; very preachy Christianity that in my opinion has no place in a book that should also have body horror (unless there’s a cult involved; I make an exception for cults).
The ending feels unresolved. And not in a “we could make a sequel” way but more in a “we want this to seem edgy and mysterious” kind of way that honestly just falls flat.
I will be forever mourning the lack of body horror and gore because it could have been epic. Oh well.
{Thank you FierceReads for the complementary copy in exchange for my honest review; all thoughts are my own}
August 1, 2025
4.5/5
Solid book, just don't read the bonus chapter!
This book was such a delight! It has similar vibes to Jurassic Park, but with interesting animals instead of dinosaurs. It's fast paced with family drama and dynamics with a smidge of love. The characters are all interesting and it's enjoyable (and sometimes not) watching them grow and change. There's a lot of blood and death.
The only issue I ran into was the "bonus chapter". It absolutely crushed any positive feelings I had because of how absurd the last paragraph was. Seriously? Why? Is it setting up another of his books or a totally different series? I don't know, and since it was so poorly woven in, I don't care to find out. Easily would have been 5 stars if not for that.
Strong Black characters with a good family life, it's overall a wonderful book. I'm happy my local library has copies and I do recommend it, just please for the love of God don't read the bonus chapter!
Solid book, just don't read the bonus chapter!
This book was such a delight! It has similar vibes to Jurassic Park, but with interesting animals instead of dinosaurs. It's fast paced with family drama and dynamics with a smidge of love. The characters are all interesting and it's enjoyable (and sometimes not) watching them grow and change. There's a lot of blood and death.
The only issue I ran into was the "bonus chapter". It absolutely crushed any positive feelings I had because of how absurd the last paragraph was. Seriously? Why? Is it setting up another of his books or a totally different series? I don't know, and since it was so poorly woven in, I don't care to find out. Easily would have been 5 stars if not for that.
Strong Black characters with a good family life, it's overall a wonderful book. I'm happy my local library has copies and I do recommend it, just please for the love of God don't read the bonus chapter!
July 7, 2024
I loved this one!
Honestly the cover drew me in when I saw this advertised and knew immediately I wanted to read it. What sold me on it more was the idea that’s its similar to Jurassic Park. I’ve never actually seen the movies (I know, shock), but I know what they’re about so was excited nevertheless!
I’ve been enjoying reviewing books where I just bullet points my thoughts so here goes!
- 14 year old me would have probably loved this (not that 24 year old me doesn’t, but I can imagine myself loving this at that age)
- Whoever designed the cover, job well done! (Do prefer the UK cover though)
- I loved our main character Femi and the goals he aspired to achieve
- The bond between Femi and Dapo that happened at times was wholesome even if it was only sprinkled in here and there
- I did get a little agitated with Femi speaking to his dad the way he did but he’s a teenager, we’ve all done it. I think it made it more accurate and relatable. The whole nobody listens to their parents thing.
- I found this to be quite fast paced which I liked and it made for an easy read. I felt things took a turn pretty fast
- I loved the writing style
- I loved how Tomi spoke of the inhabitants and creatures and setting and it really helped me visualise what was going on!
- I can’t say there was anything I disliked about the book at all, it just didn’t give me the 5 star feeling, but I had such a fun time with one!
As always, thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc! :)
Honestly the cover drew me in when I saw this advertised and knew immediately I wanted to read it. What sold me on it more was the idea that’s its similar to Jurassic Park. I’ve never actually seen the movies (I know, shock), but I know what they’re about so was excited nevertheless!
I’ve been enjoying reviewing books where I just bullet points my thoughts so here goes!
- 14 year old me would have probably loved this (not that 24 year old me doesn’t, but I can imagine myself loving this at that age)
- Whoever designed the cover, job well done! (Do prefer the UK cover though)
- I loved our main character Femi and the goals he aspired to achieve
- The bond between Femi and Dapo that happened at times was wholesome even if it was only sprinkled in here and there
- I did get a little agitated with Femi speaking to his dad the way he did but he’s a teenager, we’ve all done it. I think it made it more accurate and relatable. The whole nobody listens to their parents thing.
- I found this to be quite fast paced which I liked and it made for an easy read. I felt things took a turn pretty fast
- I loved the writing style
- I loved how Tomi spoke of the inhabitants and creatures and setting and it really helped me visualise what was going on!
- I can’t say there was anything I disliked about the book at all, it just didn’t give me the 5 star feeling, but I had such a fun time with one!
As always, thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc! :)
July 14, 2024
I liked this, the concept was dark and secretive, I didnt really know where it would go. Femi struggles a lot with juggling what he finds out about the island and with appeasing his dad/brother. He really doesnt know how to handle any situations that rapidly arise for him.
This had a very modern lord of the flies feel to it by the end which I dont mind cause it was interesting and provided high stakes.
This had a very modern lord of the flies feel to it by the end which I dont mind cause it was interesting and provided high stakes.
September 24, 2024
I wanted to love this but was underwhelmed. I expected this to be exciting and fast paced but it didn't do it for me
I didn't find any of the main characters to be interesting and if I weren't listening to this on audiobook, I'd have DNF'd.
This is YA which I enjoy but it's the lower age of YA and it just didn't do it for me
I didn't find any of the main characters to be interesting and if I weren't listening to this on audiobook, I'd have DNF'd.
This is YA which I enjoy but it's the lower age of YA and it just didn't do it for me
September 15, 2024
2,5✨
Mi-a plăcut începutul, dar apoi lucurile n-au mai funcționat pentru mine.
Gânduri despre lectură:
- premisa a fost tare bună, cu adevărat interesantă, însă execuția n-a fost cea mai bună
- mi-a plăcut că s-a abordat tema familiei și că a existat și puțină profunzime
- am găsit și câteva citate faine
- s-a citit și foarte repede
- finalul a fost ce trebuie, pentru mine cel puțin, fiind neașteptat
- totuși, probabil că principala mea problemă a fost că n-am simțit deloc personajele; n-au fost umane, nu și-au trăit și exprimat sentimentele pe parcursul cărții, cu mici excepții; cred, deci, că se mai putea lucra la construcția lor
- ce m-a mai deranjat a fost acțiunea, care a fost foarte, foarte pe repede înainte; n-am apucat să procedez un eveniment, că se și întâmplă altul
- au fost și detalii și situații care ar fi putut să lipsească (minipovestea romantică în special)
- a existat și o tonă de noroc până la un punct pentru un personaj
- despre scena bonus nu știu ce să zic.
Eu n-am citit descrierea, ci m-am luat după copertă, și am crezut inițial că e horror, așa că am fost luată prin surprindere când am înțeles că e science-fiction.
Mi-a plăcut începutul, dar apoi lucurile n-au mai funcționat pentru mine.
Gânduri despre lectură:
- premisa a fost tare bună, cu adevărat interesantă, însă execuția n-a fost cea mai bună
- mi-a plăcut că s-a abordat tema familiei și că a existat și puțină profunzime
- am găsit și câteva citate faine
- s-a citit și foarte repede
- finalul a fost ce trebuie, pentru mine cel puțin, fiind neașteptat
- totuși, probabil că principala mea problemă a fost că n-am simțit deloc personajele; n-au fost umane, nu și-au trăit și exprimat sentimentele pe parcursul cărții, cu mici excepții; cred, deci, că se mai putea lucra la construcția lor
- ce m-a mai deranjat a fost acțiunea, care a fost foarte, foarte pe repede înainte; n-am apucat să procedez un eveniment, că se și întâmplă altul
- au fost și detalii și situații care ar fi putut să lipsească (minipovestea romantică în special)
- a existat și o tonă de noroc până la un punct pentru un personaj
- despre scena bonus nu știu ce să zic.
Eu n-am citit descrierea, ci m-am luat după copertă, și am crezut inițial că e horror, așa că am fost luată prin surprindere când am înțeles că e science-fiction.
September 8, 2025
This was a helluva of a good time. A fairly easy read. I wouldn't classify it any more of a "horror" than the original Jurassic Park. It's much more of a mystery mixed with a slasher/adventure.
The author did a great job of telling a story and giving the main character an arch. It's clear where it finds its influence and it does a solid job of telling its own version. I enjoyed the extra chapters that provide some background to the other characters. However Dega felt lacking and I would have liked more. With that said Mui was the absolute best. Difficult to explain why without spoiling it. To put it simply, I think that the author managed to provide a good representation of the characters' age/experience and how it influenced or they interacted with the world.
While I skipped the bonus chapter (primarily due to other reviews). I was definitely satisfied with the ending, as I closed I may have blurted to myself "oooh that was good"
The author did a great job of telling a story and giving the main character an arch. It's clear where it finds its influence and it does a solid job of telling its own version. I enjoyed the extra chapters that provide some background to the other characters. However Dega felt lacking and I would have liked more. With that said Mui was the absolute best. Difficult to explain why without spoiling it. To put it simply, I think that the author managed to provide a good representation of the characters' age/experience and how it influenced or they interacted with the world.
While I skipped the bonus chapter (primarily due to other reviews). I was definitely satisfied with the ending, as I closed I may have blurted to myself "oooh that was good"
December 31, 2024
I felt like the plot was pretty predictable, but was really intrigued by the Jurassic park/white lotus description.
The characters felt a bit flat to me, so I didn’t feel super attached to them or what happened to them. Maybe it’s because the dialogue felt a bit mechanical?
Not a bad book by any means, and I sped through it.
The characters felt a bit flat to me, so I didn’t feel super attached to them or what happened to them. Maybe it’s because the dialogue felt a bit mechanical?
Not a bad book by any means, and I sped through it.
November 21, 2024
that ending…. oh my god
April 13, 2025
I like when bad things happen to wicked rich people. 😏
November 2, 2024
YA, but loved it. A really engaging story. The lead character’s fate is a hero journey which doesn’t dress up that he has to make a choice which will change everybody’s lives forever, especially his own.
October 27, 2024
4.5⭐️
The ending ruined it (joking) which is why I’m deducting .5
Good book overall! I enjoyed it
The ending ruined it (joking) which is why I’m deducting .5
Good book overall! I enjoyed it
September 13, 2024
CAWPILE Rating: Characters - 7, Atmosphere - 8, Writing - 7, Plot - 6, Intrigue - 7, Logic - 7, Enjoyment - 7
We Are Hunted draws clear inspiration from Jurassic Park, with its thrilling island setting and high-stakes adventure. Femi, the protagonist, is reluctantly dragged into a family bonding trip with his father and brother to an island resort that promises the impossible. However, upon arrival, Femi quickly becomes entangled in a dangerous plot that threatens not only the island but all its guests and the mysterious "founder."
The vividness of the writing really stood out to me—certain scenes felt incredibly real, making it easy to get swept up in the action. I was also intrigued by how the author skillfully weaves in quotes and takeaways that resonate with today's world. However, it's important to note that the story leans heavily into Christian themes. If you're not Christian or have experienced Christian-related trauma, this aspect might feel overwhelming.
Many thanks to NetGalley Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for the ARC in exchange of an honest review. Check out my socials (@blackgirlbujos) for my book tour post on 9/20!
3.5 ⭐️
We Are Hunted draws clear inspiration from Jurassic Park, with its thrilling island setting and high-stakes adventure. Femi, the protagonist, is reluctantly dragged into a family bonding trip with his father and brother to an island resort that promises the impossible. However, upon arrival, Femi quickly becomes entangled in a dangerous plot that threatens not only the island but all its guests and the mysterious "founder."
The vividness of the writing really stood out to me—certain scenes felt incredibly real, making it easy to get swept up in the action. I was also intrigued by how the author skillfully weaves in quotes and takeaways that resonate with today's world. However, it's important to note that the story leans heavily into Christian themes. If you're not Christian or have experienced Christian-related trauma, this aspect might feel overwhelming.
Many thanks to NetGalley Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for the ARC in exchange of an honest review. Check out my socials (@blackgirlbujos) for my book tour post on 9/20!
3.5 ⭐️
September 7, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!!
This was a lot darker and gorier than I imagined it would be. Very gruesome for a YA book. I was having a hard time connecting to Femi in the beginning but he grows on you. The way he treated his brother and dad was appalling but the character development was very well done.
There’s so much emotion here and honestly the ending caught me by surprise. I felt so bad for everyone dying and the motives behind everything. Some of the dialogue was a bit weird, but past that I really enjoyed how this story progressed. I might have to go back and read the author’s debut soon!
This was a lot darker and gorier than I imagined it would be. Very gruesome for a YA book. I was having a hard time connecting to Femi in the beginning but he grows on you. The way he treated his brother and dad was appalling but the character development was very well done.
There’s so much emotion here and honestly the ending caught me by surprise. I felt so bad for everyone dying and the motives behind everything. Some of the dialogue was a bit weird, but past that I really enjoyed how this story progressed. I might have to go back and read the author’s debut soon!
February 17, 2024
Anything by Tomi Oyemakinde Is already a 5 star and oh my God look at the cover.
September 27, 2024
It’s a fun read if you don’t worry about the detail. Jurassic park becomes a slasher movie on steroids.
September 28, 2024
DNF around 25% 🙃
June 4, 2025
Prior to the last ~50 pages, I was prepared to give this book 3.5 to 4 stars-- it wasn't great, but it had been an enjoyable read. The things I didn't like from the first 250 pages were relatively minor:
• the book didn't seem to know what age group it was aimed at; part one felt very young in terms of the emotions and responses of the characters who were in their late teens, and then part two seems overwhelmingly violent, far more violent than the 12-14 year olds I imagine would relate to part one
• given that he's supposed to be 17, the MC Femi was incredibly annoying and petulant, again acting more in line with a much younger teenager
• the pacing in this book is... unsatisfying; part one and even some of part two kind of drag, not enough for me to be mad about it, but given the rapid ending of the book, it stands out
• there are points where the book contradicts itself-- in the opening pages, Femi can't find anything online about this island's existence or what goes on there, but in the final pages, he remembers that a famous musician once gave a live concert there?
And then part three happened, and I was just so angry and disappointed.
• First big disappointment was the weird, preachy moment between father and son. This was especially jarring since this book explores the harm of colonialism and centers on a Black family, but the preaching comes from a very Christian viewpoint which is a colonizer religion. It just seemed like such an odd choice given the rest of the book's tone, and I HATE being preached at.
• The ending is so abrupt and there's no time for a very warranted exploration of grief.
• And the very last two sentences of the bonus chapter??? I do not care if it maybe sort of kind of sets the table for a sequel, it made me just so angry. I hate when books throw in random concepts at the very end when none of the groundwork has been laid for it, and this is the worst case of that I think I've ever read.
• While this book deals with some weighty concepts (grief, spectacle, colonization), I don't know I feel it did any of them justice. I think the grief is the most poorly managed, but the way the colonization thread wrapped up was also deeply unsatisfying. but there's no accountability on either side. It reminds me of how I felt after reading The Mary Shelley Club and how frustrating I found that book.
TL;DR: this book was fine until it wasn't, and I will never like books that kill characters for the shock value or that don't hold the people who do the bad things accountable for their actions when it would have been easy to write it in. This was such a disappointment.
• the book didn't seem to know what age group it was aimed at; part one felt very young in terms of the emotions and responses of the characters who were in their late teens, and then part two seems overwhelmingly violent, far more violent than the 12-14 year olds I imagine would relate to part one
• given that he's supposed to be 17, the MC Femi was incredibly annoying and petulant, again acting more in line with a much younger teenager
• the pacing in this book is... unsatisfying; part one and even some of part two kind of drag, not enough for me to be mad about it, but given the rapid ending of the book, it stands out
• there are points where the book contradicts itself-- in the opening pages, Femi can't find anything online about this island's existence or what goes on there, but in the final pages, he remembers that a famous musician once gave a live concert there?
And then part three happened, and I was just so angry and disappointed.
• First big disappointment was the weird, preachy moment between father and son. This was especially jarring since this book explores the harm of colonialism and centers on a Black family, but the preaching comes from a very Christian viewpoint which is a colonizer religion. It just seemed like such an odd choice given the rest of the book's tone, and I HATE being preached at.
• The ending is so abrupt and there's no time for a very warranted exploration of grief.
• And the very last two sentences of the bonus chapter??? I do not care if it maybe sort of kind of sets the table for a sequel, it made me just so angry. I hate when books throw in random concepts at the very end when none of the groundwork has been laid for it, and this is the worst case of that I think I've ever read.
• While this book deals with some weighty concepts (grief, spectacle, colonization), I don't know I feel it did any of them justice. I think the grief is the most poorly managed, but the way the colonization thread wrapped up was also deeply unsatisfying. but there's no accountability on either side. It reminds me of how I felt after reading The Mary Shelley Club and how frustrating I found that book.
TL;DR: this book was fine until it wasn't, and I will never like books that kill characters for the shock value or that don't hold the people who do the bad things accountable for their actions when it would have been easy to write it in. This was such a disappointment.
September 15, 2024
We Are Hunted is a twisty, vivid story with animal horror and anti-capitalist and anti-colonization vibes.
Femi is less-than-thrilled to tag along with his dad and brother to an exclusive conference on a mysterious island. But he’s heard all about Darlendia, discovered by the famous innovator Richard Jenkins and filled with bizarre animals and habitats, luxurious resort amenities, and the coolest technology.
It’s all a bit too good to be true, and Femi soon stumbles into the terrible truths of the island – and a plan to expose Jenkins and reverse his schemes. Except that plan involves a lot of bloodshed. And the animals might not be so docile after all.
My favorite moments here were the immersive descriptions and creativity surrounding the animals and the land, the native population fighting back (though of course things went VERY far), and the arc surrounding brotherhood.
The pacing is incredibly slow at first - with some scenes dragging on far too long - but the tension is great. And then everything EXPLODES. There’s a lot of blood and gore and pain and some heart wrenching deaths. Nobody is safe, and things got quite dark for a young adult book.
My biggest stumble here was probably the dialogue. Everything was a bit too precise; it just didn’t sound how most people (especially teenagers) talk to each other. The lines were often stilted and unnatural, and internal monologues were a bit strange as well. There was also some heavy religious (Christian) theming towards the end, which may turn some people off.
Femi has a major arc and learns how to better communicate with his family members, which I appreciated. He also has a deep love of music and never lets go of his creativity.
An element I couldn’t quite make up my mind on were the interludes narrated by various characters. I appreciated getting out of Femi’s head and was curious about some of the backstories, but I do think they chopped up the pacing and felt like they were only there to deliver information that we could have learned otherwise.
The stakes couldn’t be higher and the ending of the book flies by – though not everything worked smoothly for me, I think young readers will have their heads buried in this one.
CW: murder, death (child/parent), animal cruelty/death, body horror, blood, gore, grief, guns, car accident, chronic illness, classism, colonization, vomit
Follow me on social media for book recommendations!
(I received a free copy of this book; this is my honest review.)
Femi is less-than-thrilled to tag along with his dad and brother to an exclusive conference on a mysterious island. But he’s heard all about Darlendia, discovered by the famous innovator Richard Jenkins and filled with bizarre animals and habitats, luxurious resort amenities, and the coolest technology.
It’s all a bit too good to be true, and Femi soon stumbles into the terrible truths of the island – and a plan to expose Jenkins and reverse his schemes. Except that plan involves a lot of bloodshed. And the animals might not be so docile after all.
My favorite moments here were the immersive descriptions and creativity surrounding the animals and the land, the native population fighting back (though of course things went VERY far), and the arc surrounding brotherhood.
The pacing is incredibly slow at first - with some scenes dragging on far too long - but the tension is great. And then everything EXPLODES. There’s a lot of blood and gore and pain and some heart wrenching deaths. Nobody is safe, and things got quite dark for a young adult book.
My biggest stumble here was probably the dialogue. Everything was a bit too precise; it just didn’t sound how most people (especially teenagers) talk to each other. The lines were often stilted and unnatural, and internal monologues were a bit strange as well. There was also some heavy religious (Christian) theming towards the end, which may turn some people off.
Femi has a major arc and learns how to better communicate with his family members, which I appreciated. He also has a deep love of music and never lets go of his creativity.
An element I couldn’t quite make up my mind on were the interludes narrated by various characters. I appreciated getting out of Femi’s head and was curious about some of the backstories, but I do think they chopped up the pacing and felt like they were only there to deliver information that we could have learned otherwise.
The stakes couldn’t be higher and the ending of the book flies by – though not everything worked smoothly for me, I think young readers will have their heads buried in this one.
CW: murder, death (child/parent), animal cruelty/death, body horror, blood, gore, grief, guns, car accident, chronic illness, classism, colonization, vomit
Follow me on social media for book recommendations!
(I received a free copy of this book; this is my honest review.)
September 16, 2024
This has some serious Jurassic Park vibes. It is a younger YA horror that delivers suspense and family drama. For someone who grew up loving Jurassic Park, I found the nostalgic moments incredibly satisfying. The remote island setting, packed with strange animals and futuristic tech, draws you in with a sense of wonder before slowly revealing its darker secrets. That classic "something isn't right" atmosphere really worked for me. And I loved that the kids were the heroes in this.
I thought the tension between Femi and his family was interesting. Their conflicts felt real, and the way they eventually found a resolution—learning to love each other despite their flaws—was a nice emotional payoff.
However, because this is a younger YA book, the themes like colonization and the exploitation of animals are touched on briefly, but not fully explored. I found myself wanting a bit more depth on those fronts, particularly since the story had the potential to dig into them. It’s especially odd given that the rest of the book seems to be pushing back against entitlement and exploitation.
YA horror is tricky because it often has to walk a line between being accessible for younger readers while still delivering scares. I think younger readers will enjoy it. It’s a fun, fast-paced read with plenty of action, but for older readers, some of the deeper themes and the treatment of certain characters might leave you wanting more.
Thanks so much to Macmillan Children's Publishing Group and Feiwel & Friends for the opportunity to read and review. This review is based on a complimentary copy and it is voluntary. All opinions are my own.
I thought the tension between Femi and his family was interesting. Their conflicts felt real, and the way they eventually found a resolution—learning to love each other despite their flaws—was a nice emotional payoff.
However, because this is a younger YA book, the themes like colonization and the exploitation of animals are touched on briefly, but not fully explored. I found myself wanting a bit more depth on those fronts, particularly since the story had the potential to dig into them. It’s especially odd given that the rest of the book seems to be pushing back against entitlement and exploitation.
YA horror is tricky because it often has to walk a line between being accessible for younger readers while still delivering scares. I think younger readers will enjoy it. It’s a fun, fast-paced read with plenty of action, but for older readers, some of the deeper themes and the treatment of certain characters might leave you wanting more.
Thanks so much to Macmillan Children's Publishing Group and Feiwel & Friends for the opportunity to read and review. This review is based on a complimentary copy and it is voluntary. All opinions are my own.
October 11, 2024
If you enjoy Jurassic Park or World, you will enjoy this book. For me it tracked way too close to Jurassic Park. The plot was predictable. There was plenty of suspense and gore. Instead of dinosaurs, this tropical island is inhabited by “glass dragons” which are large reptiles with translucent skin and flying “raptors” that are birds similar to golden eagles with sharp talons.
We learn that the local tribe that lived there for centuries had been forced off of the land when an environmental disaster occurred and a world tycoon offers to buy the island. The tycoon was the one who intentionally caused the disaster. The main characters seek a way off the island with fewer and fewer survivors, and local tribe members offer an ultimatum: to turn from their old lives and become one of them or to die. The ending is not too surprising.
I would give it four stars for being well written and suspenseful. It got bonus points for characters who are of diverse ethnicity—I felt like I got to know the main characters. I would give it two stars for the predictable plot and being way too similar to one of the Jurassic Park movies/books. It seemed like a retelling of the same storyline.
We learn that the local tribe that lived there for centuries had been forced off of the land when an environmental disaster occurred and a world tycoon offers to buy the island. The tycoon was the one who intentionally caused the disaster. The main characters seek a way off the island with fewer and fewer survivors, and local tribe members offer an ultimatum: to turn from their old lives and become one of them or to die. The ending is not too surprising.
I would give it four stars for being well written and suspenseful. It got bonus points for characters who are of diverse ethnicity—I felt like I got to know the main characters. I would give it two stars for the predictable plot and being way too similar to one of the Jurassic Park movies/books. It seemed like a retelling of the same storyline.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2024
3.5 stars
Femi and his brother are headed to a mysterious island with their father on a business trip. They have signed non-disclosure agreements and have no idea what to expect. What ends up happening is more than any of them could have imagined.
The island was intriguing and exciting. Femi explores quite a bit and finds himself in a questionable situation. While feeling he could be doing more good than harm, he agrees to some blackmail. Soon afterward, the island is absolute chaos with the animals running free and many attacking. What ensues is the fight of his life and for the lives of many others. It’s full of excitement and fast-paced adventure but also quite a bit of gore and death. It definitely had a Jurassic Park feel which I loved, but I also felt the characters were not as developed as I would’ve liked. If you love a sci fi adventure full of life-threatening situations then this one is for you!
Thank you to @FierceReads for the copy!
The book releases September 17, 2024.
https://www.theopenbooks.net/2024/08/...
Femi and his brother are headed to a mysterious island with their father on a business trip. They have signed non-disclosure agreements and have no idea what to expect. What ends up happening is more than any of them could have imagined.
The island was intriguing and exciting. Femi explores quite a bit and finds himself in a questionable situation. While feeling he could be doing more good than harm, he agrees to some blackmail. Soon afterward, the island is absolute chaos with the animals running free and many attacking. What ensues is the fight of his life and for the lives of many others. It’s full of excitement and fast-paced adventure but also quite a bit of gore and death. It definitely had a Jurassic Park feel which I loved, but I also felt the characters were not as developed as I would’ve liked. If you love a sci fi adventure full of life-threatening situations then this one is for you!
Thank you to @FierceReads for the copy!
The book releases September 17, 2024.
https://www.theopenbooks.net/2024/08/...
November 19, 2024
This is just the type of YA sci-fi/horror I wish was more available when I was a teen. The main characters are interesting, with relatable coming-of-age struggles. The setting is wild, with intimidating fantastical creatures and an island full of attractions and vibrant colours. The villains are well-crafted, with motives you understand (even though you never condone their actions). And the themes are strong: family, selflessness, the dark sides of ambition and colonialism.
It’s dark, packed with graphic descriptions of death and people driven to extremes by revenge. It shows the perils of arrogance, greed and unchecked privilege and how dire situations can either bring people together or tear them apart.
But it’s also a riveting adventure and (despite a couple of one-off POVs that feel a little bit out of place) keeps you turning the pages and has a lot of the same awe and panic of Jurassic Park.
I’m really grateful to the author, First Ink Books and Book Break UK for the read, which I was pleased to win in a recent giveaway!
It’s dark, packed with graphic descriptions of death and people driven to extremes by revenge. It shows the perils of arrogance, greed and unchecked privilege and how dire situations can either bring people together or tear them apart.
But it’s also a riveting adventure and (despite a couple of one-off POVs that feel a little bit out of place) keeps you turning the pages and has a lot of the same awe and panic of Jurassic Park.
I’m really grateful to the author, First Ink Books and Book Break UK for the read, which I was pleased to win in a recent giveaway!
August 9, 2024
This was fine, but unfortunately I was expecting more!
It started off well, even if I was a little confused as it was a little slow moving to introduce the Island and the creatures and to set up the plot. However, when it began to explore the creatures and begin to thread some plot points it began to conjure some intrigue however I feel how the rest of the story was executed was poor. I feel like it was a lot of quick moving action with brutal descriptions of dead bodies and not a lot of focus on a story. Half the time they were going so fast I hadn’t even realised the setting had changed! Additionally, so many characters were killed off yet I couldn’t really bring myself to care as we didn’t really get to see or form a connection with many of them. They were just there one minute and dead the next.
I think the family dynamic was good and I loved seeing the relationship between Femi and Dapo out on the page.
Thanks to Macmillan Children's Books | First Ink for this e-arc in exchange for an honest review
It started off well, even if I was a little confused as it was a little slow moving to introduce the Island and the creatures and to set up the plot. However, when it began to explore the creatures and begin to thread some plot points it began to conjure some intrigue however I feel how the rest of the story was executed was poor. I feel like it was a lot of quick moving action with brutal descriptions of dead bodies and not a lot of focus on a story. Half the time they were going so fast I hadn’t even realised the setting had changed! Additionally, so many characters were killed off yet I couldn’t really bring myself to care as we didn’t really get to see or form a connection with many of them. They were just there one minute and dead the next.
I think the family dynamic was good and I loved seeing the relationship between Femi and Dapo out on the page.
Thanks to Macmillan Children's Books | First Ink for this e-arc in exchange for an honest review
August 15, 2024
This mixes family tensions and terrifying creatures so well.
When Femi accompanies his brother and their father on a trip to an unimaginable private island, he hopes he can make the most of it. The waters may be choppy between he and his father and brother, but he won’t let the tension get to him, especially when he sees a familiar face on the island…
This island is a modern marvel. Shrouded in mystery, it’s supposed to be incredibly luxurious, with remarkable wildlife and endless things to occupy your time. Unfortunately, shortly after they arrive it becomes evident that something is wrong with these animals. They are starting to attack and they. are. smart. The science fiction aspects of this book were something I really appreciated. As well as the ultimate message, one that becomes clear as we see what is really going on on this island…
The intensity is pretty high in this one, with action on almost every page. It was very entertaining and I LOVED the characters.
When Femi accompanies his brother and their father on a trip to an unimaginable private island, he hopes he can make the most of it. The waters may be choppy between he and his father and brother, but he won’t let the tension get to him, especially when he sees a familiar face on the island…
This island is a modern marvel. Shrouded in mystery, it’s supposed to be incredibly luxurious, with remarkable wildlife and endless things to occupy your time. Unfortunately, shortly after they arrive it becomes evident that something is wrong with these animals. They are starting to attack and they. are. smart. The science fiction aspects of this book were something I really appreciated. As well as the ultimate message, one that becomes clear as we see what is really going on on this island…
The intensity is pretty high in this one, with action on almost every page. It was very entertaining and I LOVED the characters.
July 3, 2024
Tomi Oyemakinde does not disappoint! Thanks to Library thing and Tomi Oyemakinde for the ARC. I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The pacing was great & I didn't find myself skimming or skipping over anything. I liked the writing style. The author does a great job of describing this futuristic, Jurassic park style resort and it's inhabitants. I loved the all the unique flora & fauna. The conflict between Femi, Dapo & their father touched at my heart strings. When things go awry during their vacation, there is a sense of dread which made it hard for me to put down the book in the second half. I do feel like the ending was tiny bit rushed and the random chapters in the middle of the book were unnecessary. But aside from those 2 thing, I really liked this book and would gladly read a sequel (if there is one)
January 1, 2025
Thank you Netgalley, Macmillan Children's Books | First Ink for the eArc of We are Hunted.
This is my first book by Tomi and even though it is a YA book, I really enjoyed it! The characters are well built and I bounded with them well. Femi goes off on a family vacation to a mysterious island and then strange things start to happen. It has a bit of everything as tropes and even though it has horror elements, I thought it was well entwined with the Sci Fi.
We are Hunted is a great way to introduce teens to more detailed horror, sci fi tropes
I also had the pleasure to listen to the audio book which was read by Jude Owusu who suited both the narrative and also gave the book and edge whist reading.
4 stars
This is my first book by Tomi and even though it is a YA book, I really enjoyed it! The characters are well built and I bounded with them well. Femi goes off on a family vacation to a mysterious island and then strange things start to happen. It has a bit of everything as tropes and even though it has horror elements, I thought it was well entwined with the Sci Fi.
We are Hunted is a great way to introduce teens to more detailed horror, sci fi tropes
I also had the pleasure to listen to the audio book which was read by Jude Owusu who suited both the narrative and also gave the book and edge whist reading.
4 stars
September 3, 2024
Fans of Jurassic Park will be thrilled with Femi’s family bonding trip to an exclusive, mysterious island resort. Dad wants Femi to head right to college instead of taking a year to pursue a career in music and more compliant older brother Dapo is emotionally distant since an accident the previous year and Femi seems to have caused. When the mechanism keeping the island wildlife somewhat tame is dismantled, reconciliation takes a back seat and its thrill after thrill until the startling conclusion. Themes of colonialism, privilege, and family forgiveness. Main characters are Black. EARC from Edelweiss.
January 14, 2025
I love Jurassic Park so much that when I saw the comparison, I immediately jumped on this. I thought the various creatures were cool and definitely my favorite part of the story. There's also a theme of 'eating the rich' that I liked too and especially how literal the eating part was.
The characters were okay, but I didn't feel super connected to them. When various people died, I mostly felt bad for their loved ones and wish it had more of an impact. The pacing is fairly quick and once the action starts, it's pretty full stop through the end.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All opinions are my own. Thank you to Feiwel & Friends and NetGalley for the copy.
The characters were okay, but I didn't feel super connected to them. When various people died, I mostly felt bad for their loved ones and wish it had more of an impact. The pacing is fairly quick and once the action starts, it's pretty full stop through the end.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All opinions are my own. Thank you to Feiwel & Friends and NetGalley for the copy.
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