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Gesa's Menagerie #4
Pride Before the Fall
Family reunions suck.
When the thing that birthed her drags Gesa back to the gryphon clan using her sister’s illness as bait, Gesa and her harem find themselves breaking out of an asylum and fleeing assassins—without really knowing who the creeps are even targeting. After all, there are so many options to choose from on the list of people who want Gesa or her lovers dead.
But the trouble doesn’t stop when she leaves clan lands. Oisin’s been hiding someone, and Gesa doesn’t like unexpected visitors. Meanwhile, Hisashi is struggling with unwanted messages from the spirit world, and Kaimana might not be what she seems.
And people wonder why Gesa doesn’t want to deal with a pride.
Author’s Note
I was tired of reading the same old thing over and over again in reverse harem. Sick of all alpha male and fainting female all the time—and desperate to be able to tell the male characters apart—I tried to infuse some variety into my story. Gesa might not be your cup of tea, and that’s okay—she doesn’t care. Her lovers are as varied in physicality and personality as they are in supernatural race. And the characters all have their own definition of sexuality. I know reverse harem is all about the fantasy, and my fantasy is a bit outside the norm. You’ve been warned.
* Gesa’s Menagerie books are novellas of between 30,000-40,000 words.
* This is a series. There will be unresolved plot threads at times/ occasional cliff hangers.
* Do NOT read this series if you are easily offended. Contains: mentions of past trauma/rape, adult language (that’s cursing kids, lots of it), and sexual content (including male/female, male/male, female/female, male/male/female, female/female/male and any other combination you can think of. Oh, and probably some tentacles and diphallia).
When the thing that birthed her drags Gesa back to the gryphon clan using her sister’s illness as bait, Gesa and her harem find themselves breaking out of an asylum and fleeing assassins—without really knowing who the creeps are even targeting. After all, there are so many options to choose from on the list of people who want Gesa or her lovers dead.
But the trouble doesn’t stop when she leaves clan lands. Oisin’s been hiding someone, and Gesa doesn’t like unexpected visitors. Meanwhile, Hisashi is struggling with unwanted messages from the spirit world, and Kaimana might not be what she seems.
And people wonder why Gesa doesn’t want to deal with a pride.
Author’s Note
I was tired of reading the same old thing over and over again in reverse harem. Sick of all alpha male and fainting female all the time—and desperate to be able to tell the male characters apart—I tried to infuse some variety into my story. Gesa might not be your cup of tea, and that’s okay—she doesn’t care. Her lovers are as varied in physicality and personality as they are in supernatural race. And the characters all have their own definition of sexuality. I know reverse harem is all about the fantasy, and my fantasy is a bit outside the norm. You’ve been warned.
* Gesa’s Menagerie books are novellas of between 30,000-40,000 words.
* This is a series. There will be unresolved plot threads at times/ occasional cliff hangers.
* Do NOT read this series if you are easily offended. Contains: mentions of past trauma/rape, adult language (that’s cursing kids, lots of it), and sexual content (including male/female, male/male, female/female, male/male/female, female/female/male and any other combination you can think of. Oh, and probably some tentacles and diphallia).
97 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 22, 2019
112 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
About the author
Kaye Draper
135 books265 followersSometimes our greatest strengths come from our deepest challenges. I write magic and romance, starring a cast of creatures with feathers, fins, and teeth. My books include paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and fantasy romance--with the occasional steampunk or alien story thrown in just for kicks. My pan heart firmly believes love is love, so you'll see straight, LGBTQIA, monogamous, reverse harem, and poly relationships in my work. My favorite theme is overcoming our inner demons and the insecurities that hold us back.
I also advocate for self-development and mental health and dabble in non-fiction as time allows. I love the outdoors and still hope to be abducted by fae! (I may have more in common with my characters than I care to admit.)
I love to hear from readers!
Sign up for my mailing list to get a free RH spoof story that pokes fun at all the tired old tropes:
http://eepurl.com/bG_6dX
Join me on Patreon to help me create, AND get advance access to ebooks, audiobooks, and more! https://www.patreon.com/kayedraper
My website: http://kayedraper.com/
Join me on Facebook:
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Or follow me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/kayedrapera...
I also advocate for self-development and mental health and dabble in non-fiction as time allows. I love the outdoors and still hope to be abducted by fae! (I may have more in common with my characters than I care to admit.)
I love to hear from readers!
Sign up for my mailing list to get a free RH spoof story that pokes fun at all the tired old tropes:
http://eepurl.com/bG_6dX
Join me on Patreon to help me create, AND get advance access to ebooks, audiobooks, and more! https://www.patreon.com/kayedraper
My website: http://kayedraper.com/
Join me on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kaye-D...
Or follow me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/kayedrapera...
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
October 12, 2020
Not gonna lie, I have been enjoying the hell out of this series, but it’s tipped out of rh into something else with the introduction of another female into the group. It would be different if the female was a lesbian, that would still be a harem. This is something else. Not sure if it’s polyamory or just someone’s vision of how love could/should be? It confuses the group dynamic in my mind now that there’s two chicks to fuck everyone. 🤔 maybe there will never been any conflicts or hurt feelings since this is fiction and you can create any dynamic you want and write it to be utopian (of sorts) but I have an analytical human brain that says “yes, but in the real world someone or someones are going to get hurt feelings and petty jealousies will crop up. Again, with this not being about humans (Con is an honorary supe for this series) I’m sure the author will leave out those human flaws.
The series plot is wonderful however, so I’ll definitely keep reading.
The series plot is wonderful however, so I’ll definitely keep reading.
February 23, 2020
Great series
This series is key fantastic so far, with characters outside this genre’s “normal” wheel house. The plots are engrossing and the pace well done, even with Shorter page count.
This series is key fantastic so far, with characters outside this genre’s “normal” wheel house. The plots are engrossing and the pace well done, even with Shorter page count.
February 25, 2020
Back for more, are you?
Gesa is soaring. Well, not actually. Really, she's dumpster diving. But, how else are you going to catch an imp? Knowing she's got to see her mom, to figure out what's going on with her sister, has her on edge. Add in her mute pretty lady with all the hugs, her nine-tailed fox who's slipping a little further into the ether each day, an annoying and oversexed fae, and her poor human who's just trying to hold them all together, and life is never boring. Now, she has to get them all on a plane? And then, even worse, introduce them to the family. Eep. It's too bad gryphons are known for valor. This is one time she'd happily embrace her inner chicken.
Spoilers ahead.
Gesa has been cursed to live in interesting times. We still don't have a grasp on the mechanics, or types, of all the beings this world shares with Gesa. We don't have a firm grasp on what the council is, how they function, and how it got started. How do mages acquire power? Are they human or other? How do you stop a power mad fae? There are still a hundred questions floating around unanswered. And still the story is entertaining enough that I'm not so frustrated by the lack of world building. The focus is very much on the characters and their relationships and not creating this world these characters live in. And, again, we jump right into a menage scene with no discussion or thought. Granted, Con has been pretty ok with supe relationships and their flexibility. But this is his first sexual contact with someone not Gesa. And her asking Gesa to have Con, like he's a loaner is a little weird. Consent is great, but open communication keeps a relationship from falling like a lead balloon. And, yes, I know these books have kept things a little shallow, but we, as readers, are supposed to be bonding with the characters. If they aren't actually bonding, just bouncing from bed to bed, then how are we supposed to bond to them? That said, I adore that Gesa's sister is another society shakeup and role breaker.
Gesa is soaring. Well, not actually. Really, she's dumpster diving. But, how else are you going to catch an imp? Knowing she's got to see her mom, to figure out what's going on with her sister, has her on edge. Add in her mute pretty lady with all the hugs, her nine-tailed fox who's slipping a little further into the ether each day, an annoying and oversexed fae, and her poor human who's just trying to hold them all together, and life is never boring. Now, she has to get them all on a plane? And then, even worse, introduce them to the family. Eep. It's too bad gryphons are known for valor. This is one time she'd happily embrace her inner chicken.
Spoilers ahead.
Gesa has been cursed to live in interesting times. We still don't have a grasp on the mechanics, or types, of all the beings this world shares with Gesa. We don't have a firm grasp on what the council is, how they function, and how it got started. How do mages acquire power? Are they human or other? How do you stop a power mad fae? There are still a hundred questions floating around unanswered. And still the story is entertaining enough that I'm not so frustrated by the lack of world building. The focus is very much on the characters and their relationships and not creating this world these characters live in. And, again, we jump right into a menage scene with no discussion or thought. Granted, Con has been pretty ok with supe relationships and their flexibility. But this is his first sexual contact with someone not Gesa. And her asking Gesa to have Con, like he's a loaner is a little weird. Consent is great, but open communication keeps a relationship from falling like a lead balloon. And, yes, I know these books have kept things a little shallow, but we, as readers, are supposed to be bonding with the characters. If they aren't actually bonding, just bouncing from bed to bed, then how are we supposed to bond to them? That said, I adore that Gesa's sister is another society shakeup and role breaker.
October 3, 2022
I finally think I get what all of the fuss is about for mainstream romance folks. Book 4 of Gesa's Menagerie has just reached another level of bisexual polyamorous bliss for me with Kaimana's full inclusion in the "harem."
I would say that this series isn't really reverse harem, in the common spirit of it. It doesn't really lean into that fantasy of one woman being worshipped and adored by a bunch of hot guys (and maybe a token lesbian) who are 100% about her and only her. It's not all about Gesa, though she's the leader of this lovely found family and gets plenty of love and attention. I'd describe the series more as polyam romance, and I wouldn't have it any other way. It's nearly impossible to find books like this.
Anyway, Pride Before the Fall is another excellent addition in the series, with plenty of character-driven action, reveals, great character interactions, and steamy scenes.
Gesa's Menagerie has become my go-to comfort series. I'm so happy to have one quality series that mixes a good amount of paranormal shenanigans with legit polyamory.
I would say that this series isn't really reverse harem, in the common spirit of it. It doesn't really lean into that fantasy of one woman being worshipped and adored by a bunch of hot guys (and maybe a token lesbian) who are 100% about her and only her. It's not all about Gesa, though she's the leader of this lovely found family and gets plenty of love and attention. I'd describe the series more as polyam romance, and I wouldn't have it any other way. It's nearly impossible to find books like this.
Anyway, Pride Before the Fall is another excellent addition in the series, with plenty of character-driven action, reveals, great character interactions, and steamy scenes.
Gesa's Menagerie has become my go-to comfort series. I'm so happy to have one quality series that mixes a good amount of paranormal shenanigans with legit polyamory.
April 30, 2019
Another great installment in this series. Love the quirky characters and the mystery aspects.
Ongoing series.
1 star... This book was bad, so bad I may have given up and skipped to the end. I will avoid this author like the plague in the future.
2 stars... This book was not very good, and I won't be reading any more from the author.
3 stars... This book was ok, but I won't go out of my way to read more, But if I find another book by the author for under a dollar I'd pick it up.
4 stars... I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be on the look out to pick up more from the series/author.
5 stars... I loved this book! It has earned a permanent home in my collection and I'll be picking up the rest of the series and other books from the author ASAP.
Ongoing series.
1 star... This book was bad, so bad I may have given up and skipped to the end. I will avoid this author like the plague in the future.
2 stars... This book was not very good, and I won't be reading any more from the author.
3 stars... This book was ok, but I won't go out of my way to read more, But if I find another book by the author for under a dollar I'd pick it up.
4 stars... I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be on the look out to pick up more from the series/author.
5 stars... I loved this book! It has earned a permanent home in my collection and I'll be picking up the rest of the series and other books from the author ASAP.
April 16, 2024
Gesa calls them her Pride for the first time!!!!!
We journey to Gesa’s home and have a family reunion, full of the good wild drama and shenanigans we’ve come to love. There’s fast paced action, spice, drama and LGBTQIA representation. I love this series so much!
We also get some other family reunions, and plenty of new magic knowledge, new magic users, and foreshadowing about more family drama to come. I can’t wait for the next one!!
We journey to Gesa’s home and have a family reunion, full of the good wild drama and shenanigans we’ve come to love. There’s fast paced action, spice, drama and LGBTQIA representation. I love this series so much!
We also get some other family reunions, and plenty of new magic knowledge, new magic users, and foreshadowing about more family drama to come. I can’t wait for the next one!!
August 4, 2021
Took me a bit to warm up to this series, most likely because I read it IMMEDIATELY after Not Quite and there were a few "similarities" at first. This book is te one officially drawing me into Gesa's world. I Love the mixed roles of every character, with the female alpha, male and female alpha h beta pride, and male "omega" dynamic they've got going on and just... yea. I'm enjoying it.
April 22, 2019
Good story,great characters
Fast paced adventure and intriguing characters made this book fly. Eagerly awaiting the next book.😀😀 can't wait until the next installment of Gesa's family.
Fast paced adventure and intriguing characters made this book fly. Eagerly awaiting the next book.😀😀 can't wait until the next installment of Gesa's family.
July 1, 2019
Pride before the fall
It’s nice to know that Gesa isn’t the only one with friends problems. I can’t believe she admits to having a pride! Let’s hope that the next case won’t be too hard on the new Pride.
It’s nice to know that Gesa isn’t the only one with friends problems. I can’t believe she admits to having a pride! Let’s hope that the next case won’t be too hard on the new Pride.
May 31, 2020
There is some bonding with different members of the group (not necessarily sex) which is good. I think there have been a too many people introduced too quickly in the last two books which means I'm losing a sense of their personalities. There have been some nice surprises revealed.
April 22, 2019
Great book!
Couldn’t put it down! As soon as I got it it the morning of the release couldn’t stop! Loved it! Can’t wait for the next one!!
Couldn’t put it down! As soon as I got it it the morning of the release couldn’t stop! Loved it! Can’t wait for the next one!!
September 12, 2019
It's different and really good
Strong characters with a great sense of humor. Have enjoyed all of them so far. Will definitely keep up with the series
Strong characters with a great sense of humor. Have enjoyed all of them so far. Will definitely keep up with the series
November 27, 2020
Amazing!
First 5 star rating in this series and it is totally deserved!! I loved every minute of this story! On to the next!
First 5 star rating in this series and it is totally deserved!! I loved every minute of this story! On to the next!
March 8, 2021
Enjoyed
These books continue to make me laugh, and keep me on my toes. I am constantly surprised by what twist lies around the next corner.
These books continue to make me laugh, and keep me on my toes. I am constantly surprised by what twist lies around the next corner.
Read
October 5, 2021Read :March 10,2021
Rating :
Review of the whole series at book 1
Rating :
Review of the whole series at book 1
February 2, 2022
Gesa has her hands full with her menagerie. Yet life keeps flinging curveballs her way. Love this book!
February 2, 2024
Calling it now, White's a dragon.
Read
June 4, 2025🔴 This is a poly romance, not a RH 🔴
June 28, 2019
All About the Famillies
This books is all about the family, those we are born to and those we choose. Obviously Gesa’s pride is a family of choice, but we also meet Gesa’s family of birth and her mother is a real piece of work, however we are introduced to Gesa’s sister, Gabbi, someone Gesa sincerely loves.
We also find out about Oisin’s family history and why he lives alone.
Once again, a lot happens in the book, and it happens quickly. It feels like if you blink you will miss something. I particularly loved finding out what Kaimana shifts into!
This books is all about the family, those we are born to and those we choose. Obviously Gesa’s pride is a family of choice, but we also meet Gesa’s family of birth and her mother is a real piece of work, however we are introduced to Gesa’s sister, Gabbi, someone Gesa sincerely loves.
We also find out about Oisin’s family history and why he lives alone.
Once again, a lot happens in the book, and it happens quickly. It feels like if you blink you will miss something. I particularly loved finding out what Kaimana shifts into!
May 31, 2022
Ratings - completed series:
#1 Gryphon's Pride: ★★★★☆
#2 Heart of the Pride: ★★★★☆
#3 With Pride: ★★★★☆
#4 Pride Before the Fall (this book): ★★★☆☆
#5 Wounded Pride: ★★★★☆
#6 Pride and Perdition: ★★★★☆
#7 A Matter of Pride: ★★★★☆
#8 Haunted by Pride: ★★★★☆
#9 Perfect Pride: ★★★★☆
#1 Gryphon's Pride: ★★★★☆
#2 Heart of the Pride: ★★★★☆
#3 With Pride: ★★★★☆
#4 Pride Before the Fall (this book): ★★★☆☆
#5 Wounded Pride: ★★★★☆
#6 Pride and Perdition: ★★★★☆
#7 A Matter of Pride: ★★★★☆
#8 Haunted by Pride: ★★★★☆
#9 Perfect Pride: ★★★★☆
December 28, 2022
I started this series cause it promised a different type of heroine. And she definitely kept that promise with Gesa! I can’t wait for their next adventure!
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews