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Hawk & Sparrow
In the industrious city of Basalton at the height of the gilded age, highborn families use enchantments to flaunt power and status while the lower classes dabble in cheap counterfeit enchantments that, if misused, can be deadly...
Seventeen-year-old orphan Vesper Evans doesn't trust magic, or the sorcerers who wield it. Instead, she commits herself to her job as a writer for the Basalton Herald. But when her newspaper finds itself under threat of permanent closure, Vesper will do anything to save it. When she witnesses a murder first-hand, everything changes.
Maximilian Kite is not only the heir to one of Basalton's wealthiest families, he's also a sorcerer, and one with a bold proposal for Vesper. If she can use her investigative skill to help him solve that murder (and prove his innocence) he'll pay her more money than she's ever seen in her life.
Max is everything Vesper despises—but his offer is too good to pass up. And to infiltrate the upper class, Vesper must pretend they are courting. What ever could go wrong?
Seventeen-year-old orphan Vesper Evans doesn't trust magic, or the sorcerers who wield it. Instead, she commits herself to her job as a writer for the Basalton Herald. But when her newspaper finds itself under threat of permanent closure, Vesper will do anything to save it. When she witnesses a murder first-hand, everything changes.
Maximilian Kite is not only the heir to one of Basalton's wealthiest families, he's also a sorcerer, and one with a bold proposal for Vesper. If she can use her investigative skill to help him solve that murder (and prove his innocence) he'll pay her more money than she's ever seen in her life.
Max is everything Vesper despises—but his offer is too good to pass up. And to infiltrate the upper class, Vesper must pretend they are courting. What ever could go wrong?
349 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2026
About the author
Ayana Gray
8 books3,057 followersAyana Gray is a New York Times-bestselling author of speculative fiction. Her works have been translated in eleven languages across five continents. She currently lives in Arkansas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 697 reviews
September 16, 2026
firstly, thank you to the publisher for an arc and an alc!
4.5 stars — i’m very shocked at all of the luke warm reviews for hawk & sparrow; it was such a fantastically written gilded age inspired novel, full of mystery, magic, and murder!
i was very excited to dive into my second ayana gray novel, especially because i really loved her adult debut i, medusa, and have heard wonderful things about her latest ya novel, and i have to say that this did NOT disappoint.
i think what stood out to me the most was the commentary at the beginning in which machines that have been created to copy the magic that only humans could wield was debuted… it strongly reminded me of a lot of conversations revolving around ai, without necessarily mentioning ai in a late 19th century novel, of course.
the narrator did a fantastic job!
my fairyloot edition is absolutely GORGEOUS!
4.5 stars — i’m very shocked at all of the luke warm reviews for hawk & sparrow; it was such a fantastically written gilded age inspired novel, full of mystery, magic, and murder!
i was very excited to dive into my second ayana gray novel, especially because i really loved her adult debut i, medusa, and have heard wonderful things about her latest ya novel, and i have to say that this did NOT disappoint.
i think what stood out to me the most was the commentary at the beginning in which machines that have been created to copy the magic that only humans could wield was debuted… it strongly reminded me of a lot of conversations revolving around ai, without necessarily mentioning ai in a late 19th century novel, of course.
the narrator did a fantastic job!
my fairyloot edition is absolutely GORGEOUS!
September 2, 2026
thank you to netgalley for this arc ❤️
dnf @ 40%
gilded age x murder mystery x fake dating x magic system had me HOOKED. also this is the perfect cover for autumn 🍁 🍁 🍁 the narration was a breeze to listen to. however about 20% in the plot kinda fizzled out and they were just questioning random suspects. vesper and maximilian's sleuthing was also juvenile and their chemistry was too dull. would still read ayana's other books tho ❤️
𓅋 𝖕𝖗𝖊𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖉 ๋࣭ ⭑🪄⋆.˚
sorry for reading 2947 books at once i just can't help myself
dnf @ 40%
gilded age x murder mystery x fake dating x magic system had me HOOKED. also this is the perfect cover for autumn 🍁 🍁 🍁 the narration was a breeze to listen to. however about 20% in the plot kinda fizzled out and they were just questioning random suspects. vesper and maximilian's sleuthing was also juvenile and their chemistry was too dull. would still read ayana's other books tho ❤️
𓅋 𝖕𝖗𝖊𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖉 ๋࣭ ⭑🪄⋆.˚
sorry for reading 2947 books at once i just can't help myself
April 25, 2026
This was an intriguing and engaging mystery with fantasy elements about power, finding your path, love, and breaking societal norms. Hawk & Sparrow follows Vesper, a reporter in the Gilded Age covering a gala when an inventer of a magical machine is murdered. Vesper makes a deal with Max, a suspect and if she helps clear his name he will give her money. What will happen next?
Thoughts
The pacing was a bit slow in the beginning, but it quickly picked up and I became immersed in this Gilded Age mystery. I loved that this book was a blend of mystery and historical fantasy, it added intrigue to the story. The plot was very interesting and I found myself trying to solve the mystery along with the characters. I had a few theories about who the culprit was, but honestly I was shocked by who it was. There were also some other shocking plot twists that kept me at the edge of my seat. The sorcery magic was very unique and interesting, such as bringing flowers to life, and floating Although I wished the magic was explained in more detail. I enjoyed Gilded Age setting and the descriptions of the clothes and city. The writing was witty, descriptive and flowed well. I appreciated how the author blended important topics in the story without distracting from the plot such as feminism, societal norms, misogyny, and classism. The ending was shocking and exciting. I'm glad most parts of the mystery were resolved, but there was one aspect that was left open.
Characters
I loved Vesper, she was ambitious, smart, brave, hardworking, and determined. Vesper's character development was great, she became more sure of herself throughout the book and opened up to another person. I loved that Vesper didn't give up on the mystery and was determined to find out what happened. I adored Max as well, he was sweet, charming, witty, funny, and brave. Max's character development was excellent, he showed all sides of himself to Vesper. There were several sweet moments between Vesper and Max that warmed my heart. The side characters were intriguing and mysterious such as Ada, Bess, and Richard.
Romance
The romance was great, I loved that it was a subplot but I was also super invested in it. The slow-burn romance was amazing, I'm so glad it took the characters a while to fall for each other. The tension and chemistry was also excellent! I loved the banter between the main characters it made me laugh and smile. I enjoyed that the Max and Vesper understood each other and a great deal in common. The romance was relatable and realistic, which made me enjoy it even more.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a blend of historical fantasy and mystery, great characters and unique magic.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!!
Thoughts
The pacing was a bit slow in the beginning, but it quickly picked up and I became immersed in this Gilded Age mystery. I loved that this book was a blend of mystery and historical fantasy, it added intrigue to the story. The plot was very interesting and I found myself trying to solve the mystery along with the characters. I had a few theories about who the culprit was, but honestly I was shocked by who it was. There were also some other shocking plot twists that kept me at the edge of my seat. The sorcery magic was very unique and interesting, such as bringing flowers to life, and floating Although I wished the magic was explained in more detail. I enjoyed Gilded Age setting and the descriptions of the clothes and city. The writing was witty, descriptive and flowed well. I appreciated how the author blended important topics in the story without distracting from the plot such as feminism, societal norms, misogyny, and classism. The ending was shocking and exciting. I'm glad most parts of the mystery were resolved, but there was one aspect that was left open.
Characters
I loved Vesper, she was ambitious, smart, brave, hardworking, and determined. Vesper's character development was great, she became more sure of herself throughout the book and opened up to another person. I loved that Vesper didn't give up on the mystery and was determined to find out what happened. I adored Max as well, he was sweet, charming, witty, funny, and brave. Max's character development was excellent, he showed all sides of himself to Vesper. There were several sweet moments between Vesper and Max that warmed my heart. The side characters were intriguing and mysterious such as Ada, Bess, and Richard.
Romance
The romance was great, I loved that it was a subplot but I was also super invested in it. The slow-burn romance was amazing, I'm so glad it took the characters a while to fall for each other. The tension and chemistry was also excellent! I loved the banter between the main characters it made me laugh and smile. I enjoyed that the Max and Vesper understood each other and a great deal in common. The romance was relatable and realistic, which made me enjoy it even more.
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a blend of historical fantasy and mystery, great characters and unique magic.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!!
March 8, 2026
This adventurous romp through a magical Gilded Age society perfectly pairs a brilliantly twisted mystery with the sweetest of romances. I was captivated and wholly smitten!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5-3.75! Young adults will love this!
FULL REVIEW TO FOLLOW
Gilden Age mystery and magic sounds like a hit to me. Doing a buddy read with my oldest! Intended for 14-18 year olds :)
Many thanks to Macmillian Audio for this early ALC!
Publication date: September 1, 2026
FULL REVIEW TO FOLLOW
Gilden Age mystery and magic sounds like a hit to me. Doing a buddy read with my oldest! Intended for 14-18 year olds :)
Many thanks to Macmillian Audio for this early ALC!
Publication date: September 1, 2026
August 24, 2026
Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the ALC in exchange for my honest review.
Being newer to the audiobook experience, one of the things I’m immediately looking for is whether the narration captures my attention. With this one, the answer was absolutely yes!
Narrated by Renika Williams-Blutcher, I was immediately immersed in the story. This isn’t my usual genre, but it’s one I enjoy, and this was such a fun listen. There’s love, magic, and mystery, which are all the makings of a good story.
I especially loved Vesper’s character and the dedication and loyalty she displayed toward her work at the Basalton Globe. There was plenty of intrigue throughout the story, along with some twists I didn’t see coming.
Overall, this was an entertaining listen, and I would definitely recommend it!
Being newer to the audiobook experience, one of the things I’m immediately looking for is whether the narration captures my attention. With this one, the answer was absolutely yes!
Narrated by Renika Williams-Blutcher, I was immediately immersed in the story. This isn’t my usual genre, but it’s one I enjoy, and this was such a fun listen. There’s love, magic, and mystery, which are all the makings of a good story.
I especially loved Vesper’s character and the dedication and loyalty she displayed toward her work at the Basalton Globe. There was plenty of intrigue throughout the story, along with some twists I didn’t see coming.
Overall, this was an entertaining listen, and I would definitely recommend it!
September 21, 2026
This was such a fun mystery driven fantasy! Super cozy & perfect for fall as well. 🍂
lost-interest
February 13, 2026I'm a simple girl, I read the words 'Gilded Age' with mystery and magic, and I'm in.
+ the cover is stunning so that also helps.
+ the cover is stunning so that also helps.
August 30, 2026
4/5⭐️ ARC read
-Gilded Age Romantasy
-Murder Mystery
-Fake Dating/Courtship
-Forced Proximity
-Forbidden Romance / Different Social Classes
- HEA
Set in the 1800s during the Gilded Age, Hawk and Sparrow follows a human reporter who attends an exhibition party hoping to land an interview and a story. During the exhibition, an inventor presents a groundbreaking creation that could allow humans to cast incantations like sorcerers without having to learn the language of sorcery themselves.
Not long after, the inventor is found dead in the garden, and we have ourselves a murder mystery. A reporter and and a sorcerer team up to try to discover who the killer is to clear the sorcerers name. 👀
This definitely reads on the younger side and felt very YA to me. The world-building is fairly minimal and easy to follow, making this a good entry-level romantasy for someone who doesn’t want to be thrown into an overly complicated magic system or massive fantasy world. It’s light and approachable.
The romance is a slow build with some good tension, particularly with the fake courtship and forbidden romance aspects. There is very little spice, so I would go into this expecting romantic tension rather than an actual spicy romance.
The murder mystery kept me curious, and there is a BIG reveal toward the end that I genuinely did not see coming. I love when a book can actually catch me off guard, and this one did!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
-Gilded Age Romantasy
-Murder Mystery
-Fake Dating/Courtship
-Forced Proximity
-Forbidden Romance / Different Social Classes
- HEA
Set in the 1800s during the Gilded Age, Hawk and Sparrow follows a human reporter who attends an exhibition party hoping to land an interview and a story. During the exhibition, an inventor presents a groundbreaking creation that could allow humans to cast incantations like sorcerers without having to learn the language of sorcery themselves.
Not long after, the inventor is found dead in the garden, and we have ourselves a murder mystery. A reporter and and a sorcerer team up to try to discover who the killer is to clear the sorcerers name. 👀
This definitely reads on the younger side and felt very YA to me. The world-building is fairly minimal and easy to follow, making this a good entry-level romantasy for someone who doesn’t want to be thrown into an overly complicated magic system or massive fantasy world. It’s light and approachable.
The romance is a slow build with some good tension, particularly with the fake courtship and forbidden romance aspects. There is very little spice, so I would go into this expecting romantic tension rather than an actual spicy romance.
The murder mystery kept me curious, and there is a BIG reveal toward the end that I genuinely did not see coming. I love when a book can actually catch me off guard, and this one did!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I loved this book.
I’m not usually a big historical reader, but lately I’ve been slowly getting into it and this book worked really well for me.
The story is set in the late 1800s and mixes mystery, magic, and romance and I really enjoyed how everything came together. The world building was solid and the investigation kept me fully engaged.
This was very bingeable, I read it in one go.
I loved both main characters. Vesper is strong and determined, and Max… I have to say, I really liked him. He’s not just the typical rich, arrogant guy. Yes, he has his moments, but he’s also kind, supportive and actually shows up when it matters.
The fake dating trope was done really well, and I liked how their relationship developed. It wasn’t rushed, they went from reluctant partners, to friends aaand to something more.
Even though the mystery takes the lead, the romance builds nicely in the background.
Also, I appreciated how mature both characters felt, especially considering their age. My only complaint is that... maybe a bit more magic would've been nice.
The ending was satisfying, and overall this was just such an enjoyable read.
⭐ 5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan for the ARC.
https://turnthepagewithana.blogspot.c...
I’m not usually a big historical reader, but lately I’ve been slowly getting into it and this book worked really well for me.
The story is set in the late 1800s and mixes mystery, magic, and romance and I really enjoyed how everything came together. The world building was solid and the investigation kept me fully engaged.
This was very bingeable, I read it in one go.
I loved both main characters. Vesper is strong and determined, and Max… I have to say, I really liked him. He’s not just the typical rich, arrogant guy. Yes, he has his moments, but he’s also kind, supportive and actually shows up when it matters.
The fake dating trope was done really well, and I liked how their relationship developed. It wasn’t rushed, they went from reluctant partners, to friends aaand to something more.
Even though the mystery takes the lead, the romance builds nicely in the background.
Also, I appreciated how mature both characters felt, especially considering their age. My only complaint is that... maybe a bit more magic would've been nice.
The ending was satisfying, and overall this was just such an enjoyable read.
⭐ 5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan for the ARC.
https://turnthepagewithana.blogspot.c...
August 13, 2026
Thanks to the author and publisher for my arc. The opinions are my own.
This is phenomenal, a gilded age murder mystery with a sprinkle of magic in a cozy setting. Vesper has Enola homes vibes and Max is just a complete cinnamon roll. The mystery is done really well and it was fun to try and keep guessing page after page , while watching the romance between the two progress. Their “fake” courtship was obviously never going to stay fake. The “first” kiss was adorable. Also three cheers for an excellently executed standalone.
This is phenomenal, a gilded age murder mystery with a sprinkle of magic in a cozy setting. Vesper has Enola homes vibes and Max is just a complete cinnamon roll. The mystery is done really well and it was fun to try and keep guessing page after page , while watching the romance between the two progress. Their “fake” courtship was obviously never going to stay fake. The “first” kiss was adorable. Also three cheers for an excellently executed standalone.
March 7, 2026
Thank you to Ayana Gray and NetGalley for this incredible read. The first page had me hooked! Vesper is a news reporter, so we experience the world through the way she analyzes things. At the same time, we gradually get a sense of how everything works and looks, which I really loved. I immediately noticed there isn’t much world-building at the beginning, but that actually worked really well for this story and likely would have taken away from it.
The story starts off fast-paced, and the mystery kicks in not long after. I really enjoyed the writing style as it’s more straightforward, but it works so well for the story. Vesper is such a unique character with a compelling backstory, a no-nonsense attitude (but not obnoxious), and a big heart, which completely won me over, she deserves the world! She’s also a strong young woman who fights for what she wants while still showing how much she cares, and that really pays off throughout the story.
And Max… he was just perfect, and perfect for Vesper. He’s also a character with depth, a lot of heart, and he genuinely tries to understand Vesper. I love MMCs who show their softer side early on, and he just got her. The side characters are minimal, but they add to the story and help tie everything together. Tom and Ida were my favorites.
It was such a lovely read, cozy but fast-paced, with a murder mystery and magic. I mean, could it get any better? Easily one of my favorite reads of 2026!
The story starts off fast-paced, and the mystery kicks in not long after. I really enjoyed the writing style as it’s more straightforward, but it works so well for the story. Vesper is such a unique character with a compelling backstory, a no-nonsense attitude (but not obnoxious), and a big heart, which completely won me over, she deserves the world! She’s also a strong young woman who fights for what she wants while still showing how much she cares, and that really pays off throughout the story.
And Max… he was just perfect, and perfect for Vesper. He’s also a character with depth, a lot of heart, and he genuinely tries to understand Vesper. I love MMCs who show their softer side early on, and he just got her. The side characters are minimal, but they add to the story and help tie everything together. Tom and Ida were my favorites.
It was such a lovely read, cozy but fast-paced, with a murder mystery and magic. I mean, could it get any better? Easily one of my favorite reads of 2026!
September 4, 2026
Exploring power, privilege and class inequality in a magical, Gilded Age inspired world; Ayana Gray’s newest release was an insatiable Romantic Fantasy, bursting with rich prose and wrapped in a plot twisty murder mystery that had me on the edge of my seat.
From the Grumpy x Sunshine, Opposites attract dynamics between protagonist Vesper, and the charming Maximilian Kite (the sorcerer and Coal Magnate who hires her to help clear his name, in a murder investigation she’s also caught up in.) To their forced proximity, fake courtship (with Max) and ever increasing danger the closer they get to uncovering the truth. There wasn’t a single moment I wasn’t fully invested and completely rooting for Vesper and Max to succeed (and also realise their own feelings for one another.)
I don’t want to delve too deeply into the plot here as I fear this review will never end (and of course I don’t want to spoil anything.) But I really enjoyed the nuance and depth that we unravel in both Vesper and Max, and their tragic pasts (which have shaped so much of their lives and opinions.) They do clash quite a lot, but the chemistry (and their banter) was phenomenal, I practically inhaled their scenes together.
We also explore the inequality faced by the lower classes, which was heartbreaking! Rspecially when juxtaposed against the lavish backdrop of high society. One such scene (a mother and her children selling paper flowers whilst everyone ignores them) had me tearing up soo much.
The mystery elements were great too, and I really enjoyed trying to guess the killer and their motives (which by some miracle I actually partly managed to guess.)
An enjoyable read that Mystery-loving Fantasy fans should definitely consider picking up.
Also, thanks to Bookbreak UK/ First Ink for the proof
From the Grumpy x Sunshine, Opposites attract dynamics between protagonist Vesper, and the charming Maximilian Kite (the sorcerer and Coal Magnate who hires her to help clear his name, in a murder investigation she’s also caught up in.) To their forced proximity, fake courtship (with Max) and ever increasing danger the closer they get to uncovering the truth. There wasn’t a single moment I wasn’t fully invested and completely rooting for Vesper and Max to succeed (and also realise their own feelings for one another.)
I don’t want to delve too deeply into the plot here as I fear this review will never end (and of course I don’t want to spoil anything.) But I really enjoyed the nuance and depth that we unravel in both Vesper and Max, and their tragic pasts (which have shaped so much of their lives and opinions.) They do clash quite a lot, but the chemistry (and their banter) was phenomenal, I practically inhaled their scenes together.
We also explore the inequality faced by the lower classes, which was heartbreaking! Rspecially when juxtaposed against the lavish backdrop of high society. One such scene (a mother and her children selling paper flowers whilst everyone ignores them) had me tearing up soo much.
The mystery elements were great too, and I really enjoyed trying to guess the killer and their motives (which by some miracle I actually partly managed to guess.)
An enjoyable read that Mystery-loving Fantasy fans should definitely consider picking up.
Also, thanks to Bookbreak UK/ First Ink for the proof
September 22, 2026
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Macmillan Audio, and Ayana Gray for the opportunity to ARC read this book.
I loved this book so much. The characters were so intricately written and the mystery was so well done. I was caught off guard by all the twists and turns and the many different elements of the story in all the best ways. I also thought that the love story was so beautifully written. I loved both the FMC and MMC.
I also want to just take time to admire ayanas writing. There is something beautiful about the way Ayana writes her stories and the way it flows perfectly. I find her stories to be so compelling and I can literally binge them on the spot.
Please please go read this book if you like books with a lots of mystery and plenty of romance.
Tropes and themes:
Sorcery
Woman in a male dominated field
Fake courting
FMC journalist
Romance
Murder mystery
I loved this book so much. The characters were so intricately written and the mystery was so well done. I was caught off guard by all the twists and turns and the many different elements of the story in all the best ways. I also thought that the love story was so beautifully written. I loved both the FMC and MMC.
I also want to just take time to admire ayanas writing. There is something beautiful about the way Ayana writes her stories and the way it flows perfectly. I find her stories to be so compelling and I can literally binge them on the spot.
Please please go read this book if you like books with a lots of mystery and plenty of romance.
Tropes and themes:
Sorcery
Woman in a male dominated field
Fake courting
FMC journalist
Romance
Murder mystery
September 8, 2026
✨️ALC REVIEW✨️
Thank you, MacMillan Audio, Netgalley, and Ayana Gray for this ALC. My review is of my own opinion.
10hr.27min
Narrator Renika Williams- Blutcher
This was a fun listen. The narrator did very well. Definitely, if I was still young and in school, I would have really enjoyed it. You have murder mystery, FMC journalist, historical gilded age, fake courtship, high society, magic, sorcery, detectives, and romance.
Thank you, MacMillan Audio, Netgalley, and Ayana Gray for this ALC. My review is of my own opinion.
10hr.27min
Narrator Renika Williams- Blutcher
This was a fun listen. The narrator did very well. Definitely, if I was still young and in school, I would have really enjoyed it. You have murder mystery, FMC journalist, historical gilded age, fake courtship, high society, magic, sorcery, detectives, and romance.
September 10, 2026
I think this is one of those instances where the main audience will enjoy it much more than I did. Even though I’m older than the intended reader, I can definitely still enjoy YA-novels, and I think I would’ve loved this a couple of years ago.
But it feels like this falls under the younger side of YA and lacks some substance. When the focus on the murder investigation started, it felt repetitive. Vesper sort of went from person to person and asked them some questions. The revelations also didn’t feel that shocking.
The time setting didn’t come across as believe. We’re told this is the regency era, but weren’t shown it. Nothing really screamed Gilded Age.
But like I said, a younger audience will probably love it.
But it feels like this falls under the younger side of YA and lacks some substance. When the focus on the murder investigation started, it felt repetitive. Vesper sort of went from person to person and asked them some questions. The revelations also didn’t feel that shocking.
The time setting didn’t come across as believe. We’re told this is the regency era, but weren’t shown it. Nothing really screamed Gilded Age.
But like I said, a younger audience will probably love it.
September 13, 2026
3.5 stars ⭐️
It stoked my feminine rage fire, but I wish it would have dug more into certain themes.
It stoked my feminine rage fire, but I wish it would have dug more into certain themes.
May 29, 2026
Hawk & Sparrow by Ayana Gray was a thoroughly enjoyable read that I flew through in no time. The pacing is relentless in the best way- every chapter pulls you forward, and before you know it, you’ve lost an entire afternoon to it.
The storyline itself is fresh and engaging, with enough intrigue to keep you guessing and invested from start to finish. Gray clearly knows how to build a world that feels alive without slowing things down to explain every detail.
As for Vesper and Maximillian, I’ll be honest, some of their interactions felt a little surface-level at times, but I was still completely charmed by their arc. Watching them slowly figure each other out, piece by piece, was genuinely satisfying. Their dynamic has a kind of quiet momentum that sneaks up on you, and by the end I was fully rooting for them.
Also, Max’s relationship with dessert? Deeply relatable. Never change, Max.
A fast, fun, and unexpectedly heartfelt story. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a compelling read with characters that stick with you.
Thank you to the publisher for the chance to read this early!
The storyline itself is fresh and engaging, with enough intrigue to keep you guessing and invested from start to finish. Gray clearly knows how to build a world that feels alive without slowing things down to explain every detail.
As for Vesper and Maximillian, I’ll be honest, some of their interactions felt a little surface-level at times, but I was still completely charmed by their arc. Watching them slowly figure each other out, piece by piece, was genuinely satisfying. Their dynamic has a kind of quiet momentum that sneaks up on you, and by the end I was fully rooting for them.
Also, Max’s relationship with dessert? Deeply relatable. Never change, Max.
A fast, fun, and unexpectedly heartfelt story. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a compelling read with characters that stick with you.
Thank you to the publisher for the chance to read this early!
September 26, 2026
“Maximilian was looking at her the way a dehydrated man might look at a cold glass of water.”
—3.5 stars—
A murder mystery wrapped in autumnal atmosphere and the glamour of the gilded age, Hawk and Sparrow follows Vesper Evans, a female reporter, and Maximilian Kite, a wealthy sorcerer, in their quest to clear Max’s name after an inventor is killed—just after the reveal of his latest creation. And so begins a trail of clues and a scheme of fake courting…
Ayana Gray wrote the two halves of her world so beautifully, from the cramped housing and dangerous working conditions for factory workers, to the opulent beauty and wealth of the highborn. With sorcery adding another aspect of privilege, the discussions and depictions of class differences was so well written.
Another aspect i loved was the mystery side, as there were so many twists and different suspects which were crossed out one by one. I also genuinely didn’t predict the actual culprit at all! I thought i’d figured it all out halfway through, but was so pleased to find the plot moving in a different direction.
I really liked Vesper! As one of the few female reporters and striving to save the small newspaper she works for from going under, her tenacity quickly endeared her to me, and i only continued to like her as the book went on. With an ever-present notebook and pen in her hands, she’s so inquisitive and was truly the driving force of Hawk And Sparrow for me.
Her partner in crime-solving and fake-dating, Maximilian, is a character who definitely hides a lot of depth behind his smirk. Between his weakness for a sweet treat or dessert and his softer side that only comes out around Vesper, i really liked the little glimpses into the person he really is.
Their budding romance was so cute, and—as i adore characters calling each other by their past names!!—the banter was so fun. Seeing Max and Vesper grow closer to each other and let their defences down was one of my favourite parts, and a particular first kiss scene had me giggling and kicking my feet so much!
(many thanks to First Ink, Ayana Gray, and Netgalley for this eARC! all thoughts and opinions are my own.)
—3.5 stars—
A murder mystery wrapped in autumnal atmosphere and the glamour of the gilded age, Hawk and Sparrow follows Vesper Evans, a female reporter, and Maximilian Kite, a wealthy sorcerer, in their quest to clear Max’s name after an inventor is killed—just after the reveal of his latest creation. And so begins a trail of clues and a scheme of fake courting…
Ayana Gray wrote the two halves of her world so beautifully, from the cramped housing and dangerous working conditions for factory workers, to the opulent beauty and wealth of the highborn. With sorcery adding another aspect of privilege, the discussions and depictions of class differences was so well written.
Another aspect i loved was the mystery side, as there were so many twists and different suspects which were crossed out one by one. I also genuinely didn’t predict the actual culprit at all! I thought i’d figured it all out halfway through, but was so pleased to find the plot moving in a different direction.
I really liked Vesper! As one of the few female reporters and striving to save the small newspaper she works for from going under, her tenacity quickly endeared her to me, and i only continued to like her as the book went on. With an ever-present notebook and pen in her hands, she’s so inquisitive and was truly the driving force of Hawk And Sparrow for me.
Her partner in crime-solving and fake-dating, Maximilian, is a character who definitely hides a lot of depth behind his smirk. Between his weakness for a sweet treat or dessert and his softer side that only comes out around Vesper, i really liked the little glimpses into the person he really is.
Their budding romance was so cute, and—as i adore characters calling each other by their past names!!—the banter was so fun. Seeing Max and Vesper grow closer to each other and let their defences down was one of my favourite parts, and a particular first kiss scene had me giggling and kicking my feet so much!
(many thanks to First Ink, Ayana Gray, and Netgalley for this eARC! all thoughts and opinions are my own.)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Audiobook Read.
💛 YA Romantasy
🪶 Murder Mystery
💛 Fake Dating
🪶 Class Differences
💛 Women's Rights
I enjoyed this one a lot! A strong FMC and a cozy historical fantasy vibe intertwined with a murder mystery plotline. I also adored that this one is a standalone! A good fantasy standalone seems hard to come across, and this was such a great, refreshing find.
•
Vesper resents the upper/elite class who are gifted with magic and prestige while she herself has grown up on the brink of society where people struggle to survive. As a reporter, she has a passion for duty and justice. One evening, when she covers a prestigious gala for "The Globe," she stumbles onto a murder scene. The prime suspect is Maximilian Kite; he employs Vesper to clear his name, but forces are working against them both as they struggle with class differences and uncover the mystery of that night.
•
This is a bit of a slow-burn, but with a fantastic pay-off. While I did find some aspects of the story predictable, I loved the direction that the author took with the plot overall. Vesper is a wonderful FMC, morally balanced and passionate, with a keen sense of justice who is always fighting for an underdog. And we ADORE an attentive MMC, especially in a society where women are viewed as lesser. While the budding relationship is a slow-burn, the dynamic between our MCs is very sweet as they balance very different lives and experiences.
Honestly, outside of slower pacing, I thought this was great. It's a well-rounded story that had me smiling and tearing up. I listened to the audiobook. Renika Williams-Blutcher does a wonderful job with the narration, and the audiobook feels very emotionally engaging.
I will definitely be reading more books from Ayana Gray! I loved the historic fantasy vibes and immersive writing in this standalone.
•
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for the ALC of this book. All thoughts and feedback contained within this review are my own.
💛 YA Romantasy
🪶 Murder Mystery
💛 Fake Dating
🪶 Class Differences
💛 Women's Rights
I enjoyed this one a lot! A strong FMC and a cozy historical fantasy vibe intertwined with a murder mystery plotline. I also adored that this one is a standalone! A good fantasy standalone seems hard to come across, and this was such a great, refreshing find.
•
Vesper resents the upper/elite class who are gifted with magic and prestige while she herself has grown up on the brink of society where people struggle to survive. As a reporter, she has a passion for duty and justice. One evening, when she covers a prestigious gala for "The Globe," she stumbles onto a murder scene. The prime suspect is Maximilian Kite; he employs Vesper to clear his name, but forces are working against them both as they struggle with class differences and uncover the mystery of that night.
•
This is a bit of a slow-burn, but with a fantastic pay-off. While I did find some aspects of the story predictable, I loved the direction that the author took with the plot overall. Vesper is a wonderful FMC, morally balanced and passionate, with a keen sense of justice who is always fighting for an underdog. And we ADORE an attentive MMC, especially in a society where women are viewed as lesser. While the budding relationship is a slow-burn, the dynamic between our MCs is very sweet as they balance very different lives and experiences.
Honestly, outside of slower pacing, I thought this was great. It's a well-rounded story that had me smiling and tearing up. I listened to the audiobook. Renika Williams-Blutcher does a wonderful job with the narration, and the audiobook feels very emotionally engaging.
I will definitely be reading more books from Ayana Gray! I loved the historic fantasy vibes and immersive writing in this standalone.
•
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for the ALC of this book. All thoughts and feedback contained within this review are my own.
September 27, 2026
✦⋆｡˚☽˚｡⋆ ━━━━━━━━━━━━━⋆｡˚☽˚｡⋆✦
✧｡･ﾟﾟ･☾ Review ☾･ﾟﾟ･｡✧
★★★★
I really enjoyed the mystery vibes with a fantasy aspect. It was a lot of fun🥹
✦⋆｡˚☽˚｡⋆ ━━━━━━━━━━━━━⋆｡˚☽˚｡⋆✦
✧｡･ﾟﾟ･☾ Quotes ☾･ﾟﾟ･｡✧
ᴠᴇꜱᴘᴇʀ ꜰᴏᴜɴᴅ ʜᴇʀꜱᴇʟꜰ ᴛʜɪɴᴋɪɴɢ ᴏꜰ ᴛʜᴇ ʙɪʀᴅꜱ ꜱʜᴇ’ᴅ ꜱᴇᴇɴ ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʙᴇʟᴠᴇʀꜱ’ ᴀᴠɪᴀʀʏ. ᴍᴀʏʙᴇ ᴡᴏᴍᴇɴ ᴡᴇʀᴇ ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴄᴀɢᴇᴅ ʙɪʀᴅꜱ. ꜱᴏᴍᴇ ᴏꜰ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴀɢᴇꜱ ᴍɪɢʜᴛ ʙᴇ ʟᴀʀɢᴇ ᴀɴᴅ ᴇʟᴇɢᴀɴᴛ, ᴏᴛʜᴇʀꜱ ᴍɪɢʜᴛ ʙᴇ ꜱᴍᴀʟʟ ᴀɴᴅ ᴄʀᴜᴅᴇ, ʙᴜᴛ ᴀ ᴄᴀɢᴇ ᴡᴀꜱ ꜱᴛɪʟʟ ᴀ ᴄᴀɢᴇ.
✧｡･ﾟﾟ･☾ Review ☾･ﾟﾟ･｡✧
★★★★
I really enjoyed the mystery vibes with a fantasy aspect. It was a lot of fun🥹
✦⋆｡˚☽˚｡⋆ ━━━━━━━━━━━━━⋆｡˚☽˚｡⋆✦
✧｡･ﾟﾟ･☾ Quotes ☾･ﾟﾟ･｡✧
ᴠᴇꜱᴘᴇʀ ꜰᴏᴜɴᴅ ʜᴇʀꜱᴇʟꜰ ᴛʜɪɴᴋɪɴɢ ᴏꜰ ᴛʜᴇ ʙɪʀᴅꜱ ꜱʜᴇ’ᴅ ꜱᴇᴇɴ ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʙᴇʟᴠᴇʀꜱ’ ᴀᴠɪᴀʀʏ. ᴍᴀʏʙᴇ ᴡᴏᴍᴇɴ ᴡᴇʀᴇ ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴄᴀɢᴇᴅ ʙɪʀᴅꜱ. ꜱᴏᴍᴇ ᴏꜰ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴀɢᴇꜱ ᴍɪɢʜᴛ ʙᴇ ʟᴀʀɢᴇ ᴀɴᴅ ᴇʟᴇɢᴀɴᴛ, ᴏᴛʜᴇʀꜱ ᴍɪɢʜᴛ ʙᴇ ꜱᴍᴀʟʟ ᴀɴᴅ ᴄʀᴜᴅᴇ, ʙᴜᴛ ᴀ ᴄᴀɢᴇ ᴡᴀꜱ ꜱᴛɪʟʟ ᴀ ᴄᴀɢᴇ.
August 11, 2026
| rating: 3.75 ★
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
✎ᝰ.ᐟ review
Absolute cinema. A murder mystery set in a magical Gilded Age? I'm sat.
Vesper Evans is a reporter for The Globe, one of the few women working in such a male-dominated field. When an up-and-coming inventor, Francis Gladwell, is murdered at an exhibition for his new invention, Vesper teams up with coal magnate, Maximilian Kite, to solve his murder.
Hawk & Sparrow is set during the Gilded Age, which is marked by rapid industrialization, only this world has magic. The book tackles the issues with technological advancements and how it encroaches on everyday life and academia. Francis created a machine that could perform magic, which traditionally takes years of study. There’s a back and forth between Max and Vesper about the usefulness of such technology. Vesper sees the machine as groundbreaking as it would allow common people to use acts of magic, meanwhile Max sees the machine as soulless and believes that magic can only be done by humans. This divide directly mirrors a lot of discourse about machines, specifically with generative AI, and it's something that I was pleasantly surprised to see in this book.
Vesper was a fantastic main character. She had a sharp and intelligent mind and a strength that is rare for someone so young. She takes what she’s gone through and she channels it into doing good for others. Max doesn’t get a lot of the focus, but with what we see of him, we can determine that he’s a rich kid with a good heart. This book doesn’t necessarily think too much about their class differences, although it does address class disparity within the broader sociological discourse of the time period. I also really enjoyed the feminist aspect of this book and I think that all the female characters were strong and well-developed.
This book is classified as a romantasy, but I don’t think romance was the main focus. That first kiss was insane, like it was so buzzy, I was giggling at work.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for the e-ARC.
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
Started: August 05, 2026
Finished: August 11, 2026
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
✎ᝰ.ᐟ review
Absolute cinema. A murder mystery set in a magical Gilded Age? I'm sat.
Vesper Evans is a reporter for The Globe, one of the few women working in such a male-dominated field. When an up-and-coming inventor, Francis Gladwell, is murdered at an exhibition for his new invention, Vesper teams up with coal magnate, Maximilian Kite, to solve his murder.
Hawk & Sparrow is set during the Gilded Age, which is marked by rapid industrialization, only this world has magic. The book tackles the issues with technological advancements and how it encroaches on everyday life and academia. Francis created a machine that could perform magic, which traditionally takes years of study. There’s a back and forth between Max and Vesper about the usefulness of such technology. Vesper sees the machine as groundbreaking as it would allow common people to use acts of magic, meanwhile Max sees the machine as soulless and believes that magic can only be done by humans. This divide directly mirrors a lot of discourse about machines, specifically with generative AI, and it's something that I was pleasantly surprised to see in this book.
Vesper was a fantastic main character. She had a sharp and intelligent mind and a strength that is rare for someone so young. She takes what she’s gone through and she channels it into doing good for others. Max doesn’t get a lot of the focus, but with what we see of him, we can determine that he’s a rich kid with a good heart. This book doesn’t necessarily think too much about their class differences, although it does address class disparity within the broader sociological discourse of the time period. I also really enjoyed the feminist aspect of this book and I think that all the female characters were strong and well-developed.
This book is classified as a romantasy, but I don’t think romance was the main focus. That first kiss was insane, like it was so buzzy, I was giggling at work.
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for the e-ARC.
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
Started: August 05, 2026
Finished: August 11, 2026
August 5, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Children’s Books for the eARC of this book!
Ayana Gray continues to prove why she is an auto buy author for me in this beautiful young adult mystery fantasy stand-alone. The book’s world is set in an alternative 1898 where magic and social politics are very much intertwined. The country, Victerra, was perhaps the equivalent of an 1800s US industrial city with a mix of factory workers and upscale homes of those who owned the companies. We follow 19 year old Vesper, a reporter for a newspaper called the Globe, as she happens to cover an event that goes terribly wrong, and faces the consequences of her dedication to investigations. In order to save the Globe from bankruptcy, she agrees to help 20 year old sorcerer Max prove his innocence in a crime. Vesper is like a female Sherlock Holmes, or perhaps Enola Holmes though I haven’t seen the show to say for certain. Along the way there are twists and turns, Vesper helps Max acknowledge his ignorance of the working class person’s world, and Vesper in turn learns that not every wealthy person is a snob. There’s also a great deal of acknowledgement of the issues women specifically faced at this period in terms of being taken seriously in the workplace and as a human which I thought was handled well. It was significant to the plot and didn’t feel crammed in just for show.
Vesper and Max do, of course, have a bit of a romance and if you love a he falls first trajectory, then their love story is perfect for you! It’s a very sweet story with minimal spice, three kiss scenes in total. While I do think it was the weakest element in the book, that’s only because the rest of the elements, the plot, the world and the character development was so strong.
Overall, I think this standalone has shown me that Ayana Gray can do it all. She created a beautiful trilogy with Beasts of Prey taking references from African language and mythology to create characters and a story line which I adored, she retold Medusa’s tale in a very interesting way, and now tackled historical fantasy in a new way with a really well done mystery and adorable characters! If you like tv shows like The Gilded Age and Murdoch Mysteries, or love a sweet young adult romance, this book is an absolute must read!
Ayana Gray continues to prove why she is an auto buy author for me in this beautiful young adult mystery fantasy stand-alone. The book’s world is set in an alternative 1898 where magic and social politics are very much intertwined. The country, Victerra, was perhaps the equivalent of an 1800s US industrial city with a mix of factory workers and upscale homes of those who owned the companies. We follow 19 year old Vesper, a reporter for a newspaper called the Globe, as she happens to cover an event that goes terribly wrong, and faces the consequences of her dedication to investigations. In order to save the Globe from bankruptcy, she agrees to help 20 year old sorcerer Max prove his innocence in a crime. Vesper is like a female Sherlock Holmes, or perhaps Enola Holmes though I haven’t seen the show to say for certain. Along the way there are twists and turns, Vesper helps Max acknowledge his ignorance of the working class person’s world, and Vesper in turn learns that not every wealthy person is a snob. There’s also a great deal of acknowledgement of the issues women specifically faced at this period in terms of being taken seriously in the workplace and as a human which I thought was handled well. It was significant to the plot and didn’t feel crammed in just for show.
Vesper and Max do, of course, have a bit of a romance and if you love a he falls first trajectory, then their love story is perfect for you! It’s a very sweet story with minimal spice, three kiss scenes in total. While I do think it was the weakest element in the book, that’s only because the rest of the elements, the plot, the world and the character development was so strong.
Overall, I think this standalone has shown me that Ayana Gray can do it all. She created a beautiful trilogy with Beasts of Prey taking references from African language and mythology to create characters and a story line which I adored, she retold Medusa’s tale in a very interesting way, and now tackled historical fantasy in a new way with a really well done mystery and adorable characters! If you like tv shows like The Gilded Age and Murdoch Mysteries, or love a sweet young adult romance, this book is an absolute must read!
September 3, 2026
Thank you Macmillan Audio for the gifted audiobook.
IT WAS FINE.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
I feel super neutral about this book which is making this review hard to write. I did like the audiobook! The narrator was fantastic and if you want to try this, that format would be a great option.
This just wasn’t anything…new? or engaging? I wasn’t mad I was reading it but I also didn’t have a lot of feelings towards the book. There were a LOT of characters and I remember getting confused as to who was who, especially when the reveals started showing up.
I did like the romance. It’s sweet and a light subplot. The reluctant allies to lovers had charm. I especially appreciate that it was young adult appropriate. Kissing only without odd innuendo. There’s a low level on language too. And I like that at least I could recommend it to that age group. The FMC is great too. Strong willed and tenacious in pursuit of the truth.
This is a murder mystery set in an URBAN HISTORICAL (Gilded Age) setting. I made the mistake of assuming it was all fantasy (I don’t read summaries often) and that threw me off a bit. I was kind of hoping for a full fantasy setting so please know that going in. This was a standalone and does wrap up things well.
Overall audience notes:
- Urban historical fantasy mystery + romance
- Language: mild
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: moderate
- Content warnings: murder, attempted murder
IT WAS FINE.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
I feel super neutral about this book which is making this review hard to write. I did like the audiobook! The narrator was fantastic and if you want to try this, that format would be a great option.
This just wasn’t anything…new? or engaging? I wasn’t mad I was reading it but I also didn’t have a lot of feelings towards the book. There were a LOT of characters and I remember getting confused as to who was who, especially when the reveals started showing up.
I did like the romance. It’s sweet and a light subplot. The reluctant allies to lovers had charm. I especially appreciate that it was young adult appropriate. Kissing only without odd innuendo. There’s a low level on language too. And I like that at least I could recommend it to that age group. The FMC is great too. Strong willed and tenacious in pursuit of the truth.
This is a murder mystery set in an URBAN HISTORICAL (Gilded Age) setting. I made the mistake of assuming it was all fantasy (I don’t read summaries often) and that threw me off a bit. I was kind of hoping for a full fantasy setting so please know that going in. This was a standalone and does wrap up things well.
Overall audience notes:
- Urban historical fantasy mystery + romance
- Language: mild
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: moderate
- Content warnings: murder, attempted murder
September 1, 2026
I am loving the writing of Ayana Gray. This is my second time picking up one of her YA novels and I adore her range of writing. This Gilded Age setting with magnetic characters, romance, and mystery mixed together for the perfect YA story. Her ability to empower women through storytelling is inspiring.
As the editor of The Basalton Globe, Vesper Evans has always taken the stance that those who exist in the luxurious circles of society don’t understand real life. And now, she must make a deal with one of Basalton’s wealthiest members, Maximillian Kite, to keep her newspaper afloat. There’s been a murder at a lavish society gala, and Max is to blame. If Vesper can clear his name, he will gift her enough money to save the Globe. She doesn’t realize the danger she’s in as she uncovers each of the city’s secrets. And she can’t believe she’s falling hard for the most infuriatingly handsome and kind man she’s ever met.
This is such a beautiful story. I actually believe it would have been better without the fantastical elements. There is magical realism tastefully crafted in, but it’s not vital to the storyline and this novel reads like historical fiction. Ayana Gray has a gift for writing YA. I also read this alongside the audio. Renika Williams-Blutcher is the PERFECT narrator for this story. I’ve listened to her read many other novels and she never disappoints. She truly enhances Gray’s writing.
Thank you NetGalley, Ayana Gray, Macmillan Young Listeners, and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group - Balzer + Bray for these ARCs in exchange for my honest review.
As the editor of The Basalton Globe, Vesper Evans has always taken the stance that those who exist in the luxurious circles of society don’t understand real life. And now, she must make a deal with one of Basalton’s wealthiest members, Maximillian Kite, to keep her newspaper afloat. There’s been a murder at a lavish society gala, and Max is to blame. If Vesper can clear his name, he will gift her enough money to save the Globe. She doesn’t realize the danger she’s in as she uncovers each of the city’s secrets. And she can’t believe she’s falling hard for the most infuriatingly handsome and kind man she’s ever met.
This is such a beautiful story. I actually believe it would have been better without the fantastical elements. There is magical realism tastefully crafted in, but it’s not vital to the storyline and this novel reads like historical fiction. Ayana Gray has a gift for writing YA. I also read this alongside the audio. Renika Williams-Blutcher is the PERFECT narrator for this story. I’ve listened to her read many other novels and she never disappoints. She truly enhances Gray’s writing.
Thank you NetGalley, Ayana Gray, Macmillan Young Listeners, and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group - Balzer + Bray for these ARCs in exchange for my honest review.
September 9, 2026
Ayana Grey has a great intriguing writing style. There were many quotes that I found myself highlighting and thinking of after.
Both Vesper and Maximilian were developed characters who really built up the story. I enjoyed the layers to their history and how they progressed through the book. Vesper determined and surviving in a world that doesn't approve of women standing on their own. I enjoyed that the entirety of this book was in her POV. Max was a classic fun aloof rich boy with the sad backstory that humanizes his charm.
One of the more vital world building aspects, the magic system and technology, really hit in an important way. I found myself siding with Max's opinions about the shortcut of the machine and dangerous by product of it. Not that the point is to take sides, but Gray really cooked with these lines:
The mystery itself had a great pacing and interesting twists. I did clock who it was from fairly early, but not because it was obvious. There was a one-off line I really latched onto and I couldn't let it go, I just knew.
Such a great Gilded Age fantasy mystery with light romance that I truly enjoyed. Thank you to Net Galley & Fierce Reads for this ARC!
"The road to hell is paved by easily impressed people."
Both Vesper and Maximilian were developed characters who really built up the story. I enjoyed the layers to their history and how they progressed through the book. Vesper determined and surviving in a world that doesn't approve of women standing on their own. I enjoyed that the entirety of this book was in her POV. Max was a classic fun aloof rich boy with the sad backstory that humanizes his charm.
One of the more vital world building aspects, the magic system and technology, really hit in an important way. I found myself siding with Max's opinions about the shortcut of the machine and dangerous by product of it. Not that the point is to take sides, but Gray really cooked with these lines:
"An artificial machine is not the same thing as a human being. The flick of a switch or the press of a button does not replace years of honing a craft."
"The Gladwell Machine allows people to bypass that. Think of all the time you've spent honing your craft as a writer. Imagine if someone could just press a few buttons and call themself a writer too."
The mystery itself had a great pacing and interesting twists. I did clock who it was from fairly early, but not because it was obvious. There was a one-off line I really latched onto and I couldn't let it go, I just knew.
Such a great Gilded Age fantasy mystery with light romance that I truly enjoyed. Thank you to Net Galley & Fierce Reads for this ARC!
September 16, 2026
I really wanted to like this but it was okay
September 15, 2026
absolute cinema omg i was obsessed from the FIRST chapter. vesper and max’s first meeting to their awkward partnership to their fake dating was EVERYTHING!!! also plot was seriously so good loved the murder mystery and was invested the entire time. the entire world was so interesting and cool! i love how the author took real world events (like the triangle shirtwaist factory fire) and fit them so well into this story. it was all so thoughtful and i genuinely admire how well she did this book
vesper and max have my entire heart and then some please give me a bonus chapter with a wedding scene or ANYTHINGGG
vesper and max have my entire heart and then some please give me a bonus chapter with a wedding scene or ANYTHINGGG
August 30, 2026
Hawk & Sparrow blew my expectations straight out of the water. This was one of my most anticipated releases of 2026 and it delivered romance, mystery, and magic in fine fashion. Ayana Gray truly is one of the very best at her craft.
From page one, I was captivated by Vesper and this story. The idea of a young woman in the Gilded Age serving as a reporter (a largely male-dominated profession at the time) grabbed my attention, but it was the way she used her cleverness and intellect to navigate tough situations that solidified the deal. Immediately upon meeting Maximilian, I knew that he was going to be quite the character and I was going to adore him — and adore him, I do.
Vesper and Max, the Hawk and the Sparrow, were just the most wonderful duo. Their bickering and tension combined with their intelligence and passion made for an exciting partnership never short of action and emotion. I really enjoyed their investigations and the way they each pulled from their “worlds” to find different clues. Additionally, I felt the tension from the moment they met and was rooting for them aggressively the entire book. The 80% mark… well, IYKYK. I also thought this was an excellent portrayal of how people from different backgrounds can form beautiful relationships.
The mystery of Francis Gladwell’s death was so well done, from the introduction of the crime to the theory development to the resolution of it all. There were some plot twists that I absolutely did not see coming, but I DID correctly guess the bad guy and I am quite proud of myself. I love a good “whodunnit” and when you place it the context of a historical fantasy and do it as well as Ayana Gray executed it in this book, you’ve got my undivided attention.
This is unquestionably a five star book and another outstanding story from Ayana Gray.
From page one, I was captivated by Vesper and this story. The idea of a young woman in the Gilded Age serving as a reporter (a largely male-dominated profession at the time) grabbed my attention, but it was the way she used her cleverness and intellect to navigate tough situations that solidified the deal. Immediately upon meeting Maximilian, I knew that he was going to be quite the character and I was going to adore him — and adore him, I do.
Vesper and Max, the Hawk and the Sparrow, were just the most wonderful duo. Their bickering and tension combined with their intelligence and passion made for an exciting partnership never short of action and emotion. I really enjoyed their investigations and the way they each pulled from their “worlds” to find different clues. Additionally, I felt the tension from the moment they met and was rooting for them aggressively the entire book. The 80% mark… well, IYKYK. I also thought this was an excellent portrayal of how people from different backgrounds can form beautiful relationships.
The mystery of Francis Gladwell’s death was so well done, from the introduction of the crime to the theory development to the resolution of it all. There were some plot twists that I absolutely did not see coming, but I DID correctly guess the bad guy and I am quite proud of myself. I love a good “whodunnit” and when you place it the context of a historical fantasy and do it as well as Ayana Gray executed it in this book, you’ve got my undivided attention.
This is unquestionably a five star book and another outstanding story from Ayana Gray.
September 1, 2026
Hawk & Sparrow by Ayana Gray
🎧Narrated by Renika Williams-Blutcher
📒Standalone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📚Upper YA/NA
Historical fiction/Romantic suspense/PNR
📖352 Pages
🗓️September 1
❣️slow burn
❣️whodunit
❣️sorcerers
❣️reluctant allies
❣️he falls first
❣️forced proximity
[I received an ALC from @macmillan.audio and an eARC from @macmillanusa @netgalley @ayanagray_ ]
✏️”A hawk and a sparrow, she mused. A doomed pairing if there ever was one.”
✏️ “Now, close your eyes for me, love.”
I LOVED this one! Irresistible romance meets cozy magic meets a mystery that will get you at any turn.
Our main characters were so well written. They were impeccable on their own but also brilliant together. The banter, the teamwork, the vulnerability, the heartbreaking past the other deeply understood. And if you know me, you know there are very few things I love to read about more than slow burn romance and “he falls first.”
The fact that this was historical fiction added a marvelous layer to the story. The entire setting worked almost as a character on its own.
And did I guess the twist? Ah! Absolutely not. Not that first one. Nor the second. And yeah, I didn’t guess that either.
But you might have guessed that... I’m now staring outside wondering where the mail is with my physical copy because this is one of those that needs a special place on my shelves.
🎧Narrated by Renika Williams-Blutcher
📒Standalone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📚Upper YA/NA
Historical fiction/Romantic suspense/PNR
📖352 Pages
🗓️September 1
❣️slow burn
❣️whodunit
❣️sorcerers
❣️reluctant allies
❣️he falls first
❣️forced proximity
[I received an ALC from @macmillan.audio and an eARC from @macmillanusa @netgalley @ayanagray_ ]
✏️”A hawk and a sparrow, she mused. A doomed pairing if there ever was one.”
✏️ “Now, close your eyes for me, love.”
I LOVED this one! Irresistible romance meets cozy magic meets a mystery that will get you at any turn.
Our main characters were so well written. They were impeccable on their own but also brilliant together. The banter, the teamwork, the vulnerability, the heartbreaking past the other deeply understood. And if you know me, you know there are very few things I love to read about more than slow burn romance and “he falls first.”
The fact that this was historical fiction added a marvelous layer to the story. The entire setting worked almost as a character on its own.
And did I guess the twist? Ah! Absolutely not. Not that first one. Nor the second. And yeah, I didn’t guess that either.
But you might have guessed that... I’m now staring outside wondering where the mail is with my physical copy because this is one of those that needs a special place on my shelves.
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