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What Happened To Zaniyah: The Hunt Book 2
When your mother tries to warn you of the dangers of the street, no one wants to listen. For fifteen year old Zaniyah, she finds out that not listening turns into a hard learned lesson that possibly may not work out to her advantage. In this prelude to CopyCat, which is book three in The Hunt series, follow Officer Morgan Johnson as she solves the case of Zaniyah Burks, and tries to decide if the police force is truly for her.
Zaniyah's story is not unlike most stories of the world trying to find their missing. It's a cautionary tale that takes a look at the harsher side of the internet, family life, and opting to making the right decision so that you make it home at night.
Get ready to hug your teens tight as you go on a journey of consequences when you don't play it safe.
TRIGGER They killing people in this jawn. There will be SA, sex trafficking, molestation, and bodily harm. Read at your own risk.
Zaniyah's story is not unlike most stories of the world trying to find their missing. It's a cautionary tale that takes a look at the harsher side of the internet, family life, and opting to making the right decision so that you make it home at night.
Get ready to hug your teens tight as you go on a journey of consequences when you don't play it safe.
TRIGGER They killing people in this jawn. There will be SA, sex trafficking, molestation, and bodily harm. Read at your own risk.
139 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2026
18 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
March 3, 2026
This book was PURE REALITY
Read your triggers. It’s rare that I cry while reading a thriller, but this one had me bawling. Damn Zaniyah. So many black and brown girls have this same story.
Read your triggers. It’s rare that I cry while reading a thriller, but this one had me bawling. Damn Zaniyah. So many black and brown girls have this same story.
March 7, 2026
This book was honestly hard to get through because it's a reality for so many young girls. The before, the after, the family left to deal and cope with so many unanswered questions. I think that this subject matter was handle with so much care by Anna J. and she has a way of making you feel for her characters. I'm anxious and excited to see what happens in the follow up, I know it's gonna be good.
March 3, 2026
Public service announcement: This book is heavier than a duffel bag full of quarters. If you can’t handle murder, rape, suicide, or child molestation, please move on to one of my other reviews. This one is not for the faint of heart.
This is a prelude to book two (The Copycat) in “The Hunt” series. We follow 15-year-old Zaniyah, who, like many teenagers, doesn’t always listen to her parents. She’s out in the streets trying to be grown in a city still healing from the aftermath of a serial killer and alleged copycats. When Zaniyah goes missing, it’s up to Officer Morgan Johnson and her squad to find her before it’s too late.
The antagonist is Big Mike. I won’t say anything that spoils the story, but just know this: He was written so well that I wanted to jump into a book and beat the **** out of him.
Listen, this book does not play around. It might have the best prologue I’ve ever read. It grabbed me immediately and refused to let go. I work cases like this in real life, and even I had to put the book down three separate times before finishing it. That’s how heavy it is. That’s how real it feels.
This was a masterpiece, and you can tell that the author elevated her craft in this installment. She absolutely put her foot in this one. And I just became an Anna J Stan!
What I loved:
The pacing
Short chapters
Multiple POVs
The realism
The emotional intensity
The raw and unapologetic storytelling
What I disliked:
That stories like this aren’t just fiction; they happen in real life.
This is a prelude to book two (The Copycat) in “The Hunt” series. We follow 15-year-old Zaniyah, who, like many teenagers, doesn’t always listen to her parents. She’s out in the streets trying to be grown in a city still healing from the aftermath of a serial killer and alleged copycats. When Zaniyah goes missing, it’s up to Officer Morgan Johnson and her squad to find her before it’s too late.
The antagonist is Big Mike. I won’t say anything that spoils the story, but just know this: He was written so well that I wanted to jump into a book and beat the **** out of him.
Listen, this book does not play around. It might have the best prologue I’ve ever read. It grabbed me immediately and refused to let go. I work cases like this in real life, and even I had to put the book down three separate times before finishing it. That’s how heavy it is. That’s how real it feels.
This was a masterpiece, and you can tell that the author elevated her craft in this installment. She absolutely put her foot in this one. And I just became an Anna J Stan!
What I loved:
The pacing
Short chapters
Multiple POVs
The realism
The emotional intensity
The raw and unapologetic storytelling
What I disliked:
That stories like this aren’t just fiction; they happen in real life.
March 7, 2026
This follow up to The Hunt completely pulled me in and emotionally wrecked me in the best way. From the first chapter something feels off. There is an unsettling feeling that sits with you as you read and it only grows stronger the deeper you get into the story.
At the center of the book is a teenage girl navigating that complicated space between childhood and independence. She wants freedom and excitement. She wants to experience more of the world and prove she is ready for it. That desire to step into adulthood begins a chain of events that slowly turns tragic.
What made this story so powerful for me is how real it felt. Situations like this happen every day. Black and brown girls go missing and their stories rarely receive the same attention or urgency that others do. This book quietly shines a light on that reality while telling a gripping story that keeps you fully invested.
The suspense builds with every chapter. The tension is steady and uncomfortable in a way that makes it impossible to stop reading. I kept turning pages because I needed to know what happened to Zaniyah. Every decision made by the characters carries weight and every moment feels like it could change everything.
Just when I thought I understood where the story was going the narrative shifted and left me stunned. The pacing is tight and the story never drags. It simply pulls you deeper and deeper until the truth begins to unfold.
This was more than a thriller for me. It felt like a reminder of how fragile safety can be and how quickly life can change.
At the center of the book is a teenage girl navigating that complicated space between childhood and independence. She wants freedom and excitement. She wants to experience more of the world and prove she is ready for it. That desire to step into adulthood begins a chain of events that slowly turns tragic.
What made this story so powerful for me is how real it felt. Situations like this happen every day. Black and brown girls go missing and their stories rarely receive the same attention or urgency that others do. This book quietly shines a light on that reality while telling a gripping story that keeps you fully invested.
The suspense builds with every chapter. The tension is steady and uncomfortable in a way that makes it impossible to stop reading. I kept turning pages because I needed to know what happened to Zaniyah. Every decision made by the characters carries weight and every moment feels like it could change everything.
Just when I thought I understood where the story was going the narrative shifted and left me stunned. The pacing is tight and the story never drags. It simply pulls you deeper and deeper until the truth begins to unfold.
This was more than a thriller for me. It felt like a reminder of how fragile safety can be and how quickly life can change.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Whew. This one was deep.
First things first, please check the trigger warnings before diving in. This story does not play around. From chapter one, I was already sad, disgusted, and angry. It completely caught me off guard and set the tone for a heavy, emotional ride.
The writing was solid, very well done. I read it in one sitting because I had to know what happened next. Even during the moments when I wasn’t sure I wanted to finish a chapter, I couldn’t stop turning the pages. That’s how gripping it was.
Honestly, this book felt like it should’ve been an episode of Law & Order: SVU. We needed Olivia Benson on this case and if you know, you know. Officer Morgan held it down, but Benson would’ve gone all the way to the ends of the earth for justice. That’s how personal this story felt.
Now let’s talk about that ending. I’m still frustrated. I didn’t love either option presented, and I cannot believe it ended the way it did. Anna J… what happened? There has to be more. We needed justice for Zaniyah. Yes, she was wilding at times and her mom definitely should’ve been stricter, but she was still a child navigating things bigger than her.
What makes this even harder is knowing that situations like this happen in real life. It pulls you out of your comfort zone and forces you to sit with some ugly truths. By the end, I honestly just wanted to crawl back into my little bubble.
Even with all the emotions, frustration, anger, and heartbreak; I still recommend this book. It’s powerful. It sparks conversation. And it stays with you long after you finish.
I’ll absolutely continue supporting Anna J. And listen… who else is going to tell Daniel’s story? Because I’m ready for that little psychopath to resurface. I need answers.
This one will have you in your feelings. Be prepared.
First things first, please check the trigger warnings before diving in. This story does not play around. From chapter one, I was already sad, disgusted, and angry. It completely caught me off guard and set the tone for a heavy, emotional ride.
The writing was solid, very well done. I read it in one sitting because I had to know what happened next. Even during the moments when I wasn’t sure I wanted to finish a chapter, I couldn’t stop turning the pages. That’s how gripping it was.
Honestly, this book felt like it should’ve been an episode of Law & Order: SVU. We needed Olivia Benson on this case and if you know, you know. Officer Morgan held it down, but Benson would’ve gone all the way to the ends of the earth for justice. That’s how personal this story felt.
Now let’s talk about that ending. I’m still frustrated. I didn’t love either option presented, and I cannot believe it ended the way it did. Anna J… what happened? There has to be more. We needed justice for Zaniyah. Yes, she was wilding at times and her mom definitely should’ve been stricter, but she was still a child navigating things bigger than her.
What makes this even harder is knowing that situations like this happen in real life. It pulls you out of your comfort zone and forces you to sit with some ugly truths. By the end, I honestly just wanted to crawl back into my little bubble.
Even with all the emotions, frustration, anger, and heartbreak; I still recommend this book. It’s powerful. It sparks conversation. And it stays with you long after you finish.
I’ll absolutely continue supporting Anna J. And listen… who else is going to tell Daniel’s story? Because I’m ready for that little psychopath to resurface. I need answers.
This one will have you in your feelings. Be prepared.
March 17, 2026
What Happened to Zaniyah is the kind of book that pulls you in right away and keeps you turning pages. Even without giving anything away, the story builds a strong sense of mystery around Zaniyah’s situation, and that tension carries through the entire book.
One of the standout parts is the emotional intensity. The characters feel real, especially in how they react to uncertainty, fear, and loyalty. You can tell the author really leans into relationships and trust, which makes the stakes feel personal instead of just plot-driven.
The pacing is another strong point—there’s always something happening, so it never really drags. That said, at times it can feel a little rushed, especially when big moments happen quickly and you want more time to process them.
Writing-wise, it’s straightforward and easy to read, which works well for the genre. It’s not overly complex, but it doesn’t need to be—the focus is clearly on the story and the suspense.
Overall, if you like mystery-driven stories with emotional weight and a lot of tension, this is a solid read. It’s especially enjoyable if you’re already invested in the series, but it can still hook you even if you’re just jumping in.
One of the standout parts is the emotional intensity. The characters feel real, especially in how they react to uncertainty, fear, and loyalty. You can tell the author really leans into relationships and trust, which makes the stakes feel personal instead of just plot-driven.
The pacing is another strong point—there’s always something happening, so it never really drags. That said, at times it can feel a little rushed, especially when big moments happen quickly and you want more time to process them.
Writing-wise, it’s straightforward and easy to read, which works well for the genre. It’s not overly complex, but it doesn’t need to be—the focus is clearly on the story and the suspense.
Overall, if you like mystery-driven stories with emotional weight and a lot of tension, this is a solid read. It’s especially enjoyable if you’re already invested in the series, but it can still hook you even if you’re just jumping in.
March 2, 2026
What Happened to Zaniyah? is a gritty, cautionary tale by Anna J. This story takes a hard look at the dangers of what a teen in today’s world can face on social media. Anna J pulls no punches on showing what can happen when even present parents can miss what their child is really doing. This book is a prelude to CopyCat, which is book three in The Hunt series. However, you do not need to read The Hunt in order to read this book. But you will want to read The Hunt after reading this story. This book is not for the faint of heart so please proceed with caution. What Happened to Zaniyah? is not only an excellent book for adults, but also a book to read and discuss with your teens.
March 5, 2026
What Happened to Zaniyah is more than a story... It’s a warning.
At some point, most of us believed we knew better than our parents. We felt grown. We wanted independence. We thought the rules didn’t apply to us. Sometimes nothing happens when we test those boundaries, but sometimes the consequences are life-altering.
This is Zaniyah’s story.
A teenage girl who ignored the warning signs and the wisdom her mother tried so desperately to give her. What starts as typical teenage defiance quickly spirals into something much darker. Zaniyah goes missing and no one knows where she is or what truly happened.
Anna J. masterfully crafts a story that is intense, heartbreaking, and emotionally gripping. The tension builds in a way that keeps you turning the pages, while the message lingers long after you finish.
This book should honestly be required reading for teens and young adults. It’s a powerful reminder that being grown and being ready for the world are two very different things. I read this as an eBook, but I’ll definitely be adding a physical copy to my shelves.
Parents and guardians, if your teen thinks they know it all, this is the book to hand them.
At some point, most of us believed we knew better than our parents. We felt grown. We wanted independence. We thought the rules didn’t apply to us. Sometimes nothing happens when we test those boundaries, but sometimes the consequences are life-altering.
This is Zaniyah’s story.
A teenage girl who ignored the warning signs and the wisdom her mother tried so desperately to give her. What starts as typical teenage defiance quickly spirals into something much darker. Zaniyah goes missing and no one knows where she is or what truly happened.
Anna J. masterfully crafts a story that is intense, heartbreaking, and emotionally gripping. The tension builds in a way that keeps you turning the pages, while the message lingers long after you finish.
This book should honestly be required reading for teens and young adults. It’s a powerful reminder that being grown and being ready for the world are two very different things. I read this as an eBook, but I’ll definitely be adding a physical copy to my shelves.
Parents and guardians, if your teen thinks they know it all, this is the book to hand them.
March 3, 2026
"What Happened to Zaniyah" takes readers on an emotional ride, beginning with a stubborn, strong willed teen who refuses to listen something many parents will recognize. Zaniyah’s choices lead to a chain of difficult and heartbreaking events that keep the story engaging from start to finish.
The character development and plot were excellent, pulling me into every moment and making the emotions feel real and intense. By the end, I was completely invested (and definitely frustrated with a few characters!). The story also made me reflect on my own family members, who could be just as hard headed at times.
The character development and plot were excellent, pulling me into every moment and making the emotions feel real and intense. By the end, I was completely invested (and definitely frustrated with a few characters!). The story also made me reflect on my own family members, who could be just as hard headed at times.
March 1, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Five Stars —
A Gripping, Necessary Read
What Happened to Zaniyah is the kind of thriller that grabs you from the very first page and refuses to let go. This isn’t just a suspense novel—it’s a powerful cautionary tale wrapped in a perfectly paced, heart-pounding story.
Following a 15-year-old girl who ignores warnings and gets entangled with real life situations , the book masterfully explores how small decisions can spiral into life-altering consequences. The tension builds steadily, every chapter pulling you deeper, making it impossible to stop reading. The pacing is flawless—never rushed, never slow—and the suspense is relentless.
What truly sets this book apart is its purpose. Beyond the thrills, it opens the door for real, necessary conversations between mothers and daughters. It doesn’t preach or talk down to the reader; instead, it shows the reality of choices and the dangers that can come from not listening to hard-earned wisdom. The emotional weight lingers long after the final page.
This is one of those rare books that is both wildly entertaining and deeply impactful. It’s bold, unsettling, and incredibly important. If you love suspense that actually means something—and stays with you—this is a must-read.
Highly recommended. You’ll be thinking about Zaniyah long after you close the book.
A Gripping, Necessary Read
What Happened to Zaniyah is the kind of thriller that grabs you from the very first page and refuses to let go. This isn’t just a suspense novel—it’s a powerful cautionary tale wrapped in a perfectly paced, heart-pounding story.
Following a 15-year-old girl who ignores warnings and gets entangled with real life situations , the book masterfully explores how small decisions can spiral into life-altering consequences. The tension builds steadily, every chapter pulling you deeper, making it impossible to stop reading. The pacing is flawless—never rushed, never slow—and the suspense is relentless.
What truly sets this book apart is its purpose. Beyond the thrills, it opens the door for real, necessary conversations between mothers and daughters. It doesn’t preach or talk down to the reader; instead, it shows the reality of choices and the dangers that can come from not listening to hard-earned wisdom. The emotional weight lingers long after the final page.
This is one of those rare books that is both wildly entertaining and deeply impactful. It’s bold, unsettling, and incredibly important. If you love suspense that actually means something—and stays with you—this is a must-read.
Highly recommended. You’ll be thinking about Zaniyah long after you close the book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“What you gonna do if you go to this man’s house and you find yourself locked inside and it’s ten of his friends in there? How you gonna get out?”
This was a very controversial but, necessary read.
At first, I was not sure if I could continue beyond the prologue due to descriptions centering sexual content with a minor. I didn’t necessarily need extreme details to get the severity of the point.
But, I continued to see it through & I am glad that I did.
-murder of a minor
-strong villains
-novella; 130 pages
-based in Philly
-complicated mother/daughter dynamics
-the concept of Black girls being “fast”
-pedophilia awareness
-multiple POVs
-nerve wracking sequence of events
-steady pacing
-disturbing yet realistic plot
-multiple epilogues
Overall, this was uncomfortable, emotional & very real. Either you’ve been someone or know someone who has been preyed upon by an adult as a minor. If you like books like “Grown” by Tiffany D. Jackson, then, you may like this as well.
This is book 2 in a series. I do not think that you have to to read book 1 to read book 2. But, for the best experience reading book 1 is advised.
This story has heavy trigger warnings. Please make sure that you thoroughly check them before choosing to dive into this story. The author states at the beginning that this book isn’t for the weak. So, proceed with caution.
This was a very controversial but, necessary read.
At first, I was not sure if I could continue beyond the prologue due to descriptions centering sexual content with a minor. I didn’t necessarily need extreme details to get the severity of the point.
But, I continued to see it through & I am glad that I did.
-murder of a minor
-strong villains
-novella; 130 pages
-based in Philly
-complicated mother/daughter dynamics
-the concept of Black girls being “fast”
-pedophilia awareness
-multiple POVs
-nerve wracking sequence of events
-steady pacing
-disturbing yet realistic plot
-multiple epilogues
Overall, this was uncomfortable, emotional & very real. Either you’ve been someone or know someone who has been preyed upon by an adult as a minor. If you like books like “Grown” by Tiffany D. Jackson, then, you may like this as well.
This is book 2 in a series. I do not think that you have to to read book 1 to read book 2. But, for the best experience reading book 1 is advised.
This story has heavy trigger warnings. Please make sure that you thoroughly check them before choosing to dive into this story. The author states at the beginning that this book isn’t for the weak. So, proceed with caution.
February 26, 2026
This was my first read from Anna J… and she completely wrecked me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This story is heavy. It’s heartbreaking. It’s infuriating. And it is necessary.
What Happened to Zaniyah pulls back the curtain on something so many people don’t want to talk about: how young girls are preyed upon, manipulated, and love-bombed by older men who know exactly what they’re doing. These girls are not equipped to navigate that kind of emotional warfare, and watching it unfold was devastating.
Zaniyah deserved softness. Protection. Guidance.
Instead, she was failed in ways that will sit with me for a long time.
The multiple POVs added so much depth to the story. You’re not just witnessing one experience, you’re seeing the ripple effects, the blind spots, the complicity, the heartbreak. I found myself having to pause more than once just to process everything.
This wasn’t an easy read but it was an important one. And sometimes the books that shake you are the ones that matter most.
I had to sit with this one after I finished. And honestly? I’m still sitting with it.
Anna J, you did what needed to be done.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This story is heavy. It’s heartbreaking. It’s infuriating. And it is necessary.
What Happened to Zaniyah pulls back the curtain on something so many people don’t want to talk about: how young girls are preyed upon, manipulated, and love-bombed by older men who know exactly what they’re doing. These girls are not equipped to navigate that kind of emotional warfare, and watching it unfold was devastating.
Zaniyah deserved softness. Protection. Guidance.
Instead, she was failed in ways that will sit with me for a long time.
The multiple POVs added so much depth to the story. You’re not just witnessing one experience, you’re seeing the ripple effects, the blind spots, the complicity, the heartbreak. I found myself having to pause more than once just to process everything.
This wasn’t an easy read but it was an important one. And sometimes the books that shake you are the ones that matter most.
I had to sit with this one after I finished. And honestly? I’m still sitting with it.
Anna J, you did what needed to be done.
December 21, 2025
ARC READ: Let’s go….
I have been a fan of Thee Anna J. for years, since My Woman His Wife and I’ve read most if not all of her catalog, so believe me when I say to you…THIS IS HER BEST WORK YET.
What happened to Zaniyah will take you through a myriad of different emotions starting with hard headed ass Zaniyah. You know how teens don’t ever want to listen to our parents? Yea, that was her and since she was hard headed there were some unfortunate events that follow.
The character and story plot and development in this book was top tier and you felt every emotion while reading this book. By the end of the story, I was ready to square up with Anna J. And ended up putting her in punishment for a few days cause FCK MIKE and his raggedy wife. Reading this story made me thankful that I got through the teenage years with my own daughter cause she was just as hard headed.
I loved this story and can’t wait to add the paperback to my bookshelf.
I have been a fan of Thee Anna J. for years, since My Woman His Wife and I’ve read most if not all of her catalog, so believe me when I say to you…THIS IS HER BEST WORK YET.
What happened to Zaniyah will take you through a myriad of different emotions starting with hard headed ass Zaniyah. You know how teens don’t ever want to listen to our parents? Yea, that was her and since she was hard headed there were some unfortunate events that follow.
The character and story plot and development in this book was top tier and you felt every emotion while reading this book. By the end of the story, I was ready to square up with Anna J. And ended up putting her in punishment for a few days cause FCK MIKE and his raggedy wife. Reading this story made me thankful that I got through the teenage years with my own daughter cause she was just as hard headed.
I loved this story and can’t wait to add the paperback to my bookshelf.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Surviving the streets of Philadelphia shouldn’t have difficult for 15 year old Zaniyah, but she was determined to not adhere her mother’s warning and live life on the edge. One fateful night turns into unnecessary heartache and pain, and Officer Morgan Johnson is determined to find out what happened to Zaniyah.
This gritty tale is not only eye opening, but gut wrenching. I highly recommend that mothers read it with their teen and tween aged daughters, nieces, etc., in order to understand the ramifications of one foolish act. It should encourage dialogue that encourages these young women to be honest with their parents, but also never to fall for the banana in the tailpipe. It’s a hard ,yet necessary lesson to be learned. My favorite character was Shanice’s mom, and my least favorite characters are a tie between Big Mike and his trifling wife.
I know I’ve said it before, but this is @authorannaj best work to date. This book slid right onto my Best Read Books of 2025 list.
This gritty tale is not only eye opening, but gut wrenching. I highly recommend that mothers read it with their teen and tween aged daughters, nieces, etc., in order to understand the ramifications of one foolish act. It should encourage dialogue that encourages these young women to be honest with their parents, but also never to fall for the banana in the tailpipe. It’s a hard ,yet necessary lesson to be learned. My favorite character was Shanice’s mom, and my least favorite characters are a tie between Big Mike and his trifling wife.
I know I’ve said it before, but this is @authorannaj best work to date. This book slid right onto my Best Read Books of 2025 list.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What Happened to Zaniyah by Anna J.
Anna J. really said, “I bet you’ve NEVER read a book like this before,” and she did not lie.
⚠️ Trigger Warning: If you are sensitive, truly—put the book down.
I’ve read books with heavy, difficult content before… but this was something else entirely. I don’t have triggers—not a single one—and the PROLOGUE alone made me close the book and go to bed.
And yet… this book was AMAZING.
What Happened to Zaniyah takes you on a brutal emotional roller coaster. Anna J. put everything on the page in a way I have never seen before. The story grabs you and refuses to let go. It stays with you. It sparks conversation. It’s a gut punch—because it feels almost too real.
This is an Anna J. you’ve never read before, and I already know this series is going to be one of my all-time favorites.
Anna J. really said, “I bet you’ve NEVER read a book like this before,” and she did not lie.
⚠️ Trigger Warning: If you are sensitive, truly—put the book down.
I’ve read books with heavy, difficult content before… but this was something else entirely. I don’t have triggers—not a single one—and the PROLOGUE alone made me close the book and go to bed.
And yet… this book was AMAZING.
What Happened to Zaniyah takes you on a brutal emotional roller coaster. Anna J. put everything on the page in a way I have never seen before. The story grabs you and refuses to let go. It stays with you. It sparks conversation. It’s a gut punch—because it feels almost too real.
This is an Anna J. you’ve never read before, and I already know this series is going to be one of my all-time favorites.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is indeed a cautionary tale for all teenagers and parents of teenagers, heck anyone that knows a teenager should read this. One bad or careless decision can ruin so many lives. Zaniyah has everything - loving mom, good friends and a good life. Until she meets someone bent on taking all of that from her in the most cruel way. Enter Officer Morgan, a cop who is well aware of the dangers of the internet and the streets-and who knows the combination of both can be deadly. Can she help Zaniyah before it's too late?
This was an engrossing thriller that had me locked in from page one. It was absolutely gutwrenching at times. And the ending was beyond me explaining.
I am eagerly awaiting the 3rd book in The Hunt series.
This was an engrossing thriller that had me locked in from page one. It was absolutely gutwrenching at times. And the ending was beyond me explaining.
I am eagerly awaiting the 3rd book in The Hunt series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Hunt Book 2: Zaniyah
ARC Review:
This story may be classified as fiction but it is very much real life experiences. Picture a young teen that has gotten wrapped up in the world of the internet. That’s who Zaniyah is! Some may say she was hot in the 🍑 and weren’t we all but the other problem comes with MEN like Big Mike! To know the REAL him is to strongly dislike him. You will feel sympathy for her mother but also yell for her to wake up. You will see the importance of the “no snitching” policy from the viewpoint of her friend Shaniece. You will grow more intrigued by Detective Morgan who we meet in “The Hunt”. Idc what others say but YOU NEED TO READ THE HUNT FIRST!!! Both are 5 star reads and will have you begging for more! Anna J will always have a supporter in me!
ARC Review:
This story may be classified as fiction but it is very much real life experiences. Picture a young teen that has gotten wrapped up in the world of the internet. That’s who Zaniyah is! Some may say she was hot in the 🍑 and weren’t we all but the other problem comes with MEN like Big Mike! To know the REAL him is to strongly dislike him. You will feel sympathy for her mother but also yell for her to wake up. You will see the importance of the “no snitching” policy from the viewpoint of her friend Shaniece. You will grow more intrigued by Detective Morgan who we meet in “The Hunt”. Idc what others say but YOU NEED TO READ THE HUNT FIRST!!! Both are 5 star reads and will have you begging for more! Anna J will always have a supporter in me!
February 20, 2026
Huntyyyy…This one was deep. The tears shed reading this was crazy. It definitely pulls on your heart strings…
I just wish Zaniayh knew what she was getting herself into before her life changed…Now Officer Morgan when she first appeared was making me mad. She was so nonchalant 🙄 But I’m glad that turned around. I truly couldn’t imagine being Wakysha. That’s not something you would wish on your worst enemy
Baby Shanice worried about the wrong thing. You worried about being a snitch. That’s supposed to be your bestfriend. But I loved her mom. She was a savage
Mike…I have no words. But he gone get his. And his wife and homeboys
I just wish Zaniayh knew what she was getting herself into before her life changed…Now Officer Morgan when she first appeared was making me mad. She was so nonchalant 🙄 But I’m glad that turned around. I truly couldn’t imagine being Wakysha. That’s not something you would wish on your worst enemy
Baby Shanice worried about the wrong thing. You worried about being a snitch. That’s supposed to be your bestfriend. But I loved her mom. She was a savage
Mike…I have no words. But he gone get his. And his wife and homeboys
March 10, 2026
OK. Anna J and I are back on track. I wasn't a fan of the prior book.
This book was heartbreaking. How many teenage Black and brown girls disappear only to turn up murdered or never turn up again at all?
Zaniyah is a teenage girl who (like a lot of teens) doesn't heed her moms warnings about the dangers out there. Online and with boys and grown men.
Zaniyah has beeen seeing an older guy. One that, she doesn't know is married predator.
She soon learns that she should have listened to her mom.
The multiple pov's from Zaniyah, Zaniyah's mom, best friend, the cop investigating her disappearance and the predator himself make the read even better.
4.5 stars.
This book was heartbreaking. How many teenage Black and brown girls disappear only to turn up murdered or never turn up again at all?
Zaniyah is a teenage girl who (like a lot of teens) doesn't heed her moms warnings about the dangers out there. Online and with boys and grown men.
Zaniyah has beeen seeing an older guy. One that, she doesn't know is married predator.
She soon learns that she should have listened to her mom.
The multiple pov's from Zaniyah, Zaniyah's mom, best friend, the cop investigating her disappearance and the predator himself make the read even better.
4.5 stars.
Review of advance copy received from Author
While not exactly a sequel to the Hunt this is more of a side story to continue the world building and character development that started within those pages.. Think more The Hunt 1.5… lol
That said this is an incredibly sad and disturbing cautionary tale of the way our children are endangered by social media. Zaniyah’s story is an example of how disturbing and depraved this world truly is..
Colorful story telling will have you in your negative feelings over just how easily things like this happen in real life.
That said this is an incredibly sad and disturbing cautionary tale of the way our children are endangered by social media. Zaniyah’s story is an example of how disturbing and depraved this world truly is..
Colorful story telling will have you in your negative feelings over just how easily things like this happen in real life.
April 1, 2026
Okay so I feel like this book could have been fleshed out a little better even if it was just a prequel or like an interlude. Within the first 20-40 pages we find out WHAT happened to Zaniyah. However, we never find out if anyone is actually held accountable. Why didn’t her mom ever discover that it was Mike? Why didn’t the wife leave him the FIRST time he did this? Was she or is he a victim too? I feel like I have more questions than answers now. Also, there were several typos in the book that were a little annoying. Overall, I enjoyed this quick and easy read and I became really invested in the characters even if the book was super short!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 1, 2026
I don't even know where to begin. My mind just can't get my head around it. I was so angry the whole time I was reading this. I may be on the opposing team but I can't stand anyone in this book. Like poor Zaniyah to have the team she did behind her. I loved this book but it made me so mad and the characters just weren't a good support. However I loved this book. It went quick and left me intrigued. I wanted to know if there would be justice. I wanted to know if retribution would happen. You will too so just give it a read and find out.
April 19, 2026
Oh my goodness. This was extremely heavy and really does shed light on the dangers of social media in terms of predators. Although it offers a great deal of benefits it’s also a danger to the most vulnerable. Zaniyah had all that she needed and wanted from her mother but unfortunately, she chose to follow the actions and acceptability by her peers and do as they did by talking to older guys in the internet. It goes far beyond her choices and the lack of action when a black girl goes missing. Morgan was the goat in this book and I was so thankful that Zaniyahs family had her in their corner. Her and her team dedicated themselves to finding those who DONT get the same exposure and/or dedication upon going missing.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for this advanced copy.
My favorite quote: Adulthood had to be the worst hood I’d ever lived in.
This was a deep and emotional story that you will want your daughters and sons to read. This book actually made me think about my own childhood and actually related to Zaniyah. //i wish I had this book as a teen but lessons were learned and I pray that this book will help the next girl stop and think before they do…..
My favorite quote: Adulthood had to be the worst hood I’d ever lived in.
This was a deep and emotional story that you will want your daughters and sons to read. This book actually made me think about my own childhood and actually related to Zaniyah. //i wish I had this book as a teen but lessons were learned and I pray that this book will help the next girl stop and think before they do…..
March 8, 2026
A five-star cautionary tale
Everyone needs to be talking about what happened to Zaniyah. These kids don't listen, think they're grown, and unfortunately don't find out they're not until they're in some crazy situation like this.
The storytelling. The pacing. The twists. The overall dysfunction of it all. Just mind blowing. You will probably never meet an MMC whose life you want to take more than this one. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
Everyone needs to be talking about what happened to Zaniyah. These kids don't listen, think they're grown, and unfortunately don't find out they're not until they're in some crazy situation like this.
The storytelling. The pacing. The twists. The overall dysfunction of it all. Just mind blowing. You will probably never meet an MMC whose life you want to take more than this one. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC reader:
I been so behind in reading this past month, life been life-ing. But this right here, this sh!t right here, got me out of my rut!
Anna J, the J stands for “just give it to you”. She gives it to you straight no chaser.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
From the first page I was like damn, she not playing, just straight to it.
Got my reading juices flowing again.
I been so behind in reading this past month, life been life-ing. But this right here, this sh!t right here, got me out of my rut!
Anna J, the J stands for “just give it to you”. She gives it to you straight no chaser.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
From the first page I was like damn, she not playing, just straight to it.
Got my reading juices flowing again.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review!
Woah, I cannot find the words to adequately describe this novel. One intensely suspenseful ride! My emotions were all over the place reading this book. From the first few pages until the very end I was completely enveloped in Zaniyah’s world. I love when the story unfolds via multiple POVs. Great job!
Woah, I cannot find the words to adequately describe this novel. One intensely suspenseful ride! My emotions were all over the place reading this book. From the first few pages until the very end I was completely enveloped in Zaniyah’s world. I love when the story unfolds via multiple POVs. Great job!
Review of advance copy
I had the pleasure of beta-reading reading the story. The unfolding of it had me gasping and taking breaks because I couldn’t believe all that had transpired. This tale is one that needs to be told to young people so they’ll better grasp the world we live in.
April 6, 2026
3.5
I really need grown people not to be trying to touch and feel all over little children. Can’t be a thing; this was a good story. I’m interested to see the next portion with copycat.
I really need grown people not to be trying to touch and feel all over little children. Can’t be a thing; this was a good story. I’m interested to see the next portion with copycat.
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 1, 2026Mannn this book gutted me!!!
Please check your trigger warnings because this one is NOT for everyone.
Zaniyah was just a boy-crazy teen who thought she was in love but Big Mike was grown grown, and everybody connected to him was foul. No excuses.
My heart broke the most for Wakysha. As a mother who tried to give her daughter everything, she deserved so much more. That pain felt real.
I’m glad Shanice stepped up, and Officer Morgan? THAT’S who I want on my case. She didn’t miss a thing.
I wish the ending was different but something tells me this story isn’t over.
Please check your trigger warnings because this one is NOT for everyone.
Zaniyah was just a boy-crazy teen who thought she was in love but Big Mike was grown grown, and everybody connected to him was foul. No excuses.
My heart broke the most for Wakysha. As a mother who tried to give her daughter everything, she deserved so much more. That pain felt real.
I’m glad Shanice stepped up, and Officer Morgan? THAT’S who I want on my case. She didn’t miss a thing.
I wish the ending was different but something tells me this story isn’t over.
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