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Gesa's Menagerie #2
Heart of the Pride
When Gesa escaped her oppressive clan to become a bounty hunter in a growing backwater city, she never imagined she would end up dating a fae. She might try her best to deny Oisin’s jokes about her starting a pride—a harem reserved for male gryphons—but Gesa is growing dangerously fond of their roommate and secretary, the unassuming human, Con.
But romantic issues are the least of Gesa’s worries. Her ancient, deadly fae lover is hiding something. And a spate of animal killings leads the amateur detectives right to a murderer who hides in the open, sure of his supremacy over those he hunts. When Gesa and Oisin are wounded and nearly killed, Con has no choice to take matters into his own hands to protect the pride, putting the breakable—and idiotically reckless—human right in the way of a killer.
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).
But romantic issues are the least of Gesa’s worries. Her ancient, deadly fae lover is hiding something. And a spate of animal killings leads the amateur detectives right to a murderer who hides in the open, sure of his supremacy over those he hunts. When Gesa and Oisin are wounded and nearly killed, Con has no choice to take matters into his own hands to protect the pride, putting the breakable—and idiotically reckless—human right in the way of a killer.
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).
85 pages, ebook
First published April 1, 2019
166 people are currently reading
77 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:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kaye-D...
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...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Want to read
February 23, 2020🎁 Books 1 -3 in the Series are FREE on Amazon today (2/23/2020)! 🎁
February 5, 2020
Really enjoyed going to have finish the rest of the series. I have a hard life lol
February 23, 2020
Fun ride!
I am really enjoying Gesa’s tale and the lovers she is slowly acquiring! We’ve got a fae and a human - who knows what is next?? And seriously.... what is White?
I am really enjoying Gesa’s tale and the lovers she is slowly acquiring! We’ve got a fae and a human - who knows what is next?? And seriously.... what is White?
July 16, 2020
Gah, this is such a fun series with such a fun cast of characters and wow, the next arc set up with that ending 👀
February 24, 2020
Run along now
Gesa is just finally getting used to being in a relationship with Oisin. She's still struggling with having a human in such close proximity. Although, there seems to be sparks there? Maybe? Damnit, Oisin isn't right, is he? She isn't going to start collecting a pride, is she? And who has the time, anyways. What with a rash of animal deaths cropping up. But, these aren't just animals are they? They're people, too, just dual natured ones.
Spoilers ahead.
Oh, things for interesting here. I'm not sure I like the way the relationship brought in Con? Yes, Gesa takes some "handling", but 1 lover inviting in another potential lover with no notice of warning? Smacks a bit highhanded. Oisin hadn't mentioned being ok with opening up their relationship, even for her and not him. Seeing attraction doesn't mean accepting sex without some form of courtship or discussion. And, I hadn't mentioned beforehand, but the lack of world building is starting to get at me. The bite sized stories move so quick, but when you finish all these questions start popping up.
*Do shifters have fae blood? Is that why fae can shift?
*How many kinds of shifters are there? We've seen both predator and prey animals now.
*Sensing a demon in the (currently) background characters. And angels were mentioned. More as part of snark, but thinking maybe they're real.
*I'm guessing the species boundaries don't apply in potential pregnancies? Since they're so focused on protection. But, in this world set up, would half-breeds be full shifters? Posses senses of but not shifting abilities? Is that, or inherited fae blood, why some "humans" can sense supes?
*Most shifter tales have either natural or mythological, not usually both. What other mythologicals exist? Dragons? Nagas? Harpies?
*We have magic, now. Not just fae, but mage. Are they human? Sorcerers, witches, warlocks, roses by another name? What fuels their magic?
The series is interesting and I'm still binging on the sarcasm and snark. The keebler elf comment about had me lose it. The humor alone, along with the very few errors found, earns it higher stars than I'd ordinarily give a series lacking in world building.
Gesa is just finally getting used to being in a relationship with Oisin. She's still struggling with having a human in such close proximity. Although, there seems to be sparks there? Maybe? Damnit, Oisin isn't right, is he? She isn't going to start collecting a pride, is she? And who has the time, anyways. What with a rash of animal deaths cropping up. But, these aren't just animals are they? They're people, too, just dual natured ones.
Spoilers ahead.
Oh, things for interesting here. I'm not sure I like the way the relationship brought in Con? Yes, Gesa takes some "handling", but 1 lover inviting in another potential lover with no notice of warning? Smacks a bit highhanded. Oisin hadn't mentioned being ok with opening up their relationship, even for her and not him. Seeing attraction doesn't mean accepting sex without some form of courtship or discussion. And, I hadn't mentioned beforehand, but the lack of world building is starting to get at me. The bite sized stories move so quick, but when you finish all these questions start popping up.
*Do shifters have fae blood? Is that why fae can shift?
*How many kinds of shifters are there? We've seen both predator and prey animals now.
*Sensing a demon in the (currently) background characters. And angels were mentioned. More as part of snark, but thinking maybe they're real.
*I'm guessing the species boundaries don't apply in potential pregnancies? Since they're so focused on protection. But, in this world set up, would half-breeds be full shifters? Posses senses of but not shifting abilities? Is that, or inherited fae blood, why some "humans" can sense supes?
*Most shifter tales have either natural or mythological, not usually both. What other mythologicals exist? Dragons? Nagas? Harpies?
*We have magic, now. Not just fae, but mage. Are they human? Sorcerers, witches, warlocks, roses by another name? What fuels their magic?
The series is interesting and I'm still binging on the sarcasm and snark. The keebler elf comment about had me lose it. The humor alone, along with the very few errors found, earns it higher stars than I'd ordinarily give a series lacking in world building.
December 15, 2019
You know, I am always wary, if a book description tells me „This is not your typical ....“ because most of the times that is EXACTLY what it is.
I am pleased in this case it is somewhat true. That is not your typical flowery, rose red RH story. We have a brass and unladylike gryphon heroine and were introduced to two of her men, that aren‘t your typical RH heroes either.
For that alone I am going to continue reading. It‘s entertaining enough, but to be honest, I am not invested in the characters at all, they stay lifeless and aren‘t complex enough, although I am sure, there would be enough background stories to form great characters. I don‘t feel the connection between them at all, it doesn‘t feel natural and most of the time forced. I think the best word to describe most of the things in here is „shallow“. The plot, the world building, the romance, the characters.
To be honest I think this has potential, this story could have been better than a mediocre, forgettable read, if more time, effort and editing would have been put into it.
And „novella“ simply isn‘t the right form for what the story is trying to be.
That is kind of a bummer, but I will definitely continue.
I am pleased in this case it is somewhat true. That is not your typical flowery, rose red RH story. We have a brass and unladylike gryphon heroine and were introduced to two of her men, that aren‘t your typical RH heroes either.
For that alone I am going to continue reading. It‘s entertaining enough, but to be honest, I am not invested in the characters at all, they stay lifeless and aren‘t complex enough, although I am sure, there would be enough background stories to form great characters. I don‘t feel the connection between them at all, it doesn‘t feel natural and most of the time forced. I think the best word to describe most of the things in here is „shallow“. The plot, the world building, the romance, the characters.
To be honest I think this has potential, this story could have been better than a mediocre, forgettable read, if more time, effort and editing would have been put into it.
And „novella“ simply isn‘t the right form for what the story is trying to be.
That is kind of a bummer, but I will definitely continue.
April 15, 2019
Funny series with interesting characters and a mystery to solve.
Since I don't normally write reviews unless I have something specific to say, here's the break down of how I rate my books...
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.
Since I don't normally write reviews unless I have something specific to say, here's the break down of how I rate my books...
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
Woohoo, we have spice! It’s more than book 1, and we get our three lovebirds together even. It’s still a little fade to gray, not quite fade to black, and it matches with the fast paced storytelling. I personally would appreciate more on page details, but I like that the author can write variety (I’ve read other works by Kaye Draper, some with a lot more detail and others that are more like this one, on the sweet side).
There’s a tough case with - trigger warning - animal stuff, the bad kind, happening. We don’t get too much on page details of that, thank goodness, but still the theme is a heavier one in this book.
We get some more Derek F’ing White action and meet a new lady friend…?! Then we’re off to get distracted… so not a terrible cliffhanger, but oh gosh do I want to see more of our new lady interest!!
There’s a tough case with - trigger warning - animal stuff, the bad kind, happening. We don’t get too much on page details of that, thank goodness, but still the theme is a heavier one in this book.
We get some more Derek F’ing White action and meet a new lady friend…?! Then we’re off to get distracted… so not a terrible cliffhanger, but oh gosh do I want to see more of our new lady interest!!
April 19, 2020
Derek White is the one character that really intrigues me and if I thought he would be part of the harem then it would have persuaded me to keep reading. Unfortunately, that doesn't seem to be the case. Moreover, this book hints at FF content coming up and yeah that's not my cup of tea... Probably will read book 3 just to confirm my suspicions..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2021
Con brings out the soft side in Gesa & Oisin in the most adorable and overprotective ways. For a character that abhors emoting, Gesa excudes so much warmth and affection in this book. So many unanswered questions, biggest problem with this book is it’s too short, the “mystery” of the day is interesting and I would have enjoyed seeing it more drawn out.
July 1, 2021
Super!
Great addition to Gesa’s Menagerie series. Love the additional characters being brought into the series. Starting to wonder what Mr. White is?? If you haven’t read the first book stop and save this one and read the first one Gryphon’s Pride, as they are a series and follow tightly.
Great addition to Gesa’s Menagerie series. Love the additional characters being brought into the series. Starting to wonder what Mr. White is?? If you haven’t read the first book stop and save this one and read the first one Gryphon’s Pride, as they are a series and follow tightly.
April 22, 2019
This one was better
Paranormal. Uf. Rh. 2/? Guys. Paranormal Private Investigators. Someone is killing animals and an officer asks Gesa to look into it. It definitely has my anxiety up on what's going on with Oisin. And the next one sounds super interesting.
Paranormal. Uf. Rh. 2/? Guys. Paranormal Private Investigators. Someone is killing animals and an officer asks Gesa to look into it. It definitely has my anxiety up on what's going on with Oisin. And the next one sounds super interesting.
May 30, 2020
3 1/2 stars. I have enjoyed getting to know the two members of the harem. So far it seems that one book focuses on a member. It may not work out if there are too many members but it works for now. Plus, a good plot.
January 10, 2021
Great story!!
Book 2 is another good installment in Gesa's story. Another PI case to solve, more mystery around Mr.White. The books are novella length, grab you quick and entertain from start to finish.
Book 2 is another good installment in Gesa's story. Another PI case to solve, more mystery around Mr.White. The books are novella length, grab you quick and entertain from start to finish.
May 13, 2019
Enjoyed it!
May 20, 2019
Heart of the pride
Okay the mystery is killing me! What is our little fae friend hiding and can Gesa save him from his secrets?
Okay the mystery is killing me! What is our little fae friend hiding and can Gesa save him from his secrets?
June 1, 2019
See my comments on the 1st book in the series.
November 8, 2019
Awesome
This series is a fun, great read. The characters are perfectly messed up. Thank you for sharing. Getting the next in the series.
This series is a fun, great read. The characters are perfectly messed up. Thank you for sharing. Getting the next in the series.
June 23, 2020
I love this series! You are an excellent writer !! You can put everything good and best in a perfect reverse harem pack !!!
August 20, 2020
This series is definitely getting better! I enjoy the bounty hunter angle.
September 12, 2020
Ohh yeah second book can't wait for the third off to read it now. Love this authors work damn can't put it down...
October 12, 2020
Yay! We’re adding to the Pride and getting to learn more about Gesa and her guys. Holy hotness 🥵🥵🥵 It’s so much fun to see how this group takes on each new challenge.
November 25, 2020
Loved it!
This series just keeps getting better. I do feel like the actual crime they are investigating could get more detail/be longer. But otherwise it’s great!
This series just keeps getting better. I do feel like the actual crime they are investigating could get more detail/be longer. But otherwise it’s great!
February 16, 2021
2nd book done!
Still loving this series. I have read two in a row and they’re both great. So glad to have found this author!
Still loving this series. I have read two in a row and they’re both great. So glad to have found this author!
March 7, 2021
Fun
I enjoyed this story, with a bit of a twist I was not expecting! I am enjoying seeing how the characters are evolving.
I enjoyed this story, with a bit of a twist I was not expecting! I am enjoying seeing how the characters are evolving.
June 6, 2021
Another great part of Gesa's story. I enjoy it when she continues to deny having a Pride when she is obviously growing one, but it's not because she wants one, but she will need it.
Read
October 5, 2021Read :March 10,2020?
Rating :
Review of the whole series at book 1
Rating :
Review of the whole series at book 1
March 15, 2022
I missed the F/F tag which isn’t my cup of tea but the series itself is good.
dnf
October 16, 2022i’m clearly not in the mood for this. also i don’t like how rh kinda run through the romance.
dnfed at forty four percent
dnfed at forty four percent
February 23, 2023
So good!
Gesa is fastly becoming a character I'll revisit as often as I can. Add in her fae and her hu.an and Im soo hooked
Gesa is fastly becoming a character I'll revisit as often as I can. Add in her fae and her hu.an and Im soo hooked
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews