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Fate's Gambit
The Prince's Mate
I left so I wouldn't turn into my worst nightmare. Now my mate hates me.
Walker
When I first arrived in Otherworld as a five-year-old, I trusted only two Damien, the king of Otherworld, and his best friend, Caelan.
Caelan became my best friend too, until the day he left Otherworld with no explanation.
Over the years, all my feelings for him turned bitter, until all I could do was hate him, even when he returned for good.
When my dads sent Caelan and I to the human realm, I struggled between my hate for the man I once adored, and the feelings I kept hidden deep in my heart.
Caelan
When I found out that my best friend's newly adopted five-year-old was my mate, I did what I knew was I left.
I returned seventeen years later, and Walker wasn't a kid anymore. He was a handsome young man, and he hated me.
When Damien and his mates conspired together by sending Walker and I to the human realm, I expected more of the same hatred and dislike.
Instead, I discovered Walker might not hate me as much as I'd thought, and a blast from the past that could ruin everything.
The Prince's Mate is an MM romance featuring two men who met too early in life but got a second chance at love because of nosy dads and a conspiring magical snake who loves to talk.
This story is connected to Stella Rainbow's Fate's Gambit (the story of Walker's dads) and the Lords of Otherworld series. While it can be read as a standalone, you can find out more about the characters mentioned in this book by reading these series. You can find a full list of Stella's books and how they connect with each other on her website.
An MM Dad's Best Friend Paranormal Romance
Walker
When I first arrived in Otherworld as a five-year-old, I trusted only two Damien, the king of Otherworld, and his best friend, Caelan.
Caelan became my best friend too, until the day he left Otherworld with no explanation.
Over the years, all my feelings for him turned bitter, until all I could do was hate him, even when he returned for good.
When my dads sent Caelan and I to the human realm, I struggled between my hate for the man I once adored, and the feelings I kept hidden deep in my heart.
Caelan
When I found out that my best friend's newly adopted five-year-old was my mate, I did what I knew was I left.
I returned seventeen years later, and Walker wasn't a kid anymore. He was a handsome young man, and he hated me.
When Damien and his mates conspired together by sending Walker and I to the human realm, I expected more of the same hatred and dislike.
Instead, I discovered Walker might not hate me as much as I'd thought, and a blast from the past that could ruin everything.
The Prince's Mate is an MM romance featuring two men who met too early in life but got a second chance at love because of nosy dads and a conspiring magical snake who loves to talk.
This story is connected to Stella Rainbow's Fate's Gambit (the story of Walker's dads) and the Lords of Otherworld series. While it can be read as a standalone, you can find out more about the characters mentioned in this book by reading these series. You can find a full list of Stella's books and how they connect with each other on her website.
An MM Dad's Best Friend Paranormal Romance
213 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 24, 2025
51 people are currently reading
48 people want to read
About the author
Stella Rainbow
55 books273 followersStella Rainbow is the pen name of a twenty something woman from India. Her heart is too full of rainbow colored stories to be limited by the lack of awareness in her home country.
Stella spends her days cuddling up with her cat, typing out new stories, daydreaming and reading all the books she can get her hands on.
She loves talking to her readers and other book lovers, so don't hesitate in contacting her on any of her socials or emailing her at authorstellarainbow@gmail.com
Stella spends her days cuddling up with her cat, typing out new stories, daydreaming and reading all the books she can get her hands on.
She loves talking to her readers and other book lovers, so don't hesitate in contacting her on any of her socials or emailing her at authorstellarainbow@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 24, 2025
4.25/5 I’ve been reading along in this series since the beginning and just waiting for Caelan and Walker to get their own book—once Walker was old enough, of course. The beginning was a bit tough because Walker has dealt with what he feels is his abandonment by convincing himself he hates Caelan—a hurtful situation for everyone involved. Thankfully, that doesn’t last too long—and with get the entertainment of Ro’Shassz the snake playing (snarky) matchmaker. He’s got a lot of steps in his mission, and they do not all go smoothly, lol.)
I really liked seeing Caelan and Walker get to know one another as adults. We hadn’t previously gotten to see much of Caelan’s vulnerable side or history, so we learn a lot about him the same time Walker does, making them both more nuanced and interesting characters. We get a bit of a road-tripping vibe, some danger, some impulsiveness, and some excellent rescues. It’s definitely a pleasure to see these two get their HEA!
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
I really liked seeing Caelan and Walker get to know one another as adults. We hadn’t previously gotten to see much of Caelan’s vulnerable side or history, so we learn a lot about him the same time Walker does, making them both more nuanced and interesting characters. We get a bit of a road-tripping vibe, some danger, some impulsiveness, and some excellent rescues. It’s definitely a pleasure to see these two get their HEA!
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
January 29, 2025
This is the romance and story I think everyone who reads Stella Rainbow's work has been waiting for honestly.
While this can be read as a stand alone, Stella loves to write interconnected stories that give you back ground in each book. It just helps you understand the characters and side characters and the world plot better. So if you have not consumed Fate's Gambit, which is Walker's dad's romance (MMM) when you first meet walker, you do see him around all the time in the Lords of otherworld series as well.
This book jumps time a bit when Walker has finally become an adult. We know from Fate & Caelan that early on Walekr and Caelan are mates. In this book we see exactly why Caelan leaves for long as Walker grows up.
This book goes through a lot of each characters backstory and trauma and forces the couple to talk through their trauma and also stop bickering at each other. From hurt feelings to wanting their mate bond so bad Caelan will do anything to keep Walker near.....this is by far the most angsty book in the multiples series by far. And that isn't a bad thing.
Both Caelan and Walker have to walk through not only their past, but an enemy we all thought was dead and gone. So it's make it or break it for the long awaited mating for our Otherworld Prince and his dear Kitty.
Now throw in 3 meddling dad's, some other world friends & a sneaky little protector snake with snark and I think you have a well balanced book.
Now we know Stella's books are more along the lines of romance and not just smut or couplings. Which makes each couple stand apart from each other. Based on each character's history, how comfortable they feel and the bond they share with their mate/s- each coupling is vastly different. And that does not mean you can't feel the heat between couples, and I mean that especially for this couple in particular.
These men have gone through A LOT on their lives and you get to see it first hand in this book.
So if you are ready to see Walker and Caelan finally give in to their fated mate status...... give this book a go.
It's a quick read- I basically read it in one sitting. It has you toying with emotions as the couple bickers and Ro'shassz's side pov honestly made me laugh too many times to count.
While this can be read as a stand alone, Stella loves to write interconnected stories that give you back ground in each book. It just helps you understand the characters and side characters and the world plot better. So if you have not consumed Fate's Gambit, which is Walker's dad's romance (MMM) when you first meet walker, you do see him around all the time in the Lords of otherworld series as well.
This book jumps time a bit when Walker has finally become an adult. We know from Fate & Caelan that early on Walekr and Caelan are mates. In this book we see exactly why Caelan leaves for long as Walker grows up.
This book goes through a lot of each characters backstory and trauma and forces the couple to talk through their trauma and also stop bickering at each other. From hurt feelings to wanting their mate bond so bad Caelan will do anything to keep Walker near.....this is by far the most angsty book in the multiples series by far. And that isn't a bad thing.
Both Caelan and Walker have to walk through not only their past, but an enemy we all thought was dead and gone. So it's make it or break it for the long awaited mating for our Otherworld Prince and his dear Kitty.
Now throw in 3 meddling dad's, some other world friends & a sneaky little protector snake with snark and I think you have a well balanced book.
Now we know Stella's books are more along the lines of romance and not just smut or couplings. Which makes each couple stand apart from each other. Based on each character's history, how comfortable they feel and the bond they share with their mate/s- each coupling is vastly different. And that does not mean you can't feel the heat between couples, and I mean that especially for this couple in particular.
These men have gone through A LOT on their lives and you get to see it first hand in this book.
So if you are ready to see Walker and Caelan finally give in to their fated mate status...... give this book a go.
It's a quick read- I basically read it in one sitting. It has you toying with emotions as the couple bickers and Ro'shassz's side pov honestly made me laugh too many times to count.
January 23, 2025
I've been eagerly waiting for Caelan and Walker's story, throughout Stella's other stories there have been glimpses of both of these men and I've been curious about them since then. I'm so happy they got their happy ever after and it was such a cute story!!
After Caelan got told the he and Walker are fated mates when Walker was just a child he decided the best thing would be to leave.. Caelan was Walker's best friend when he was younger but then Caelan disappeared with no reason, leading to Walker having resentment towards the other man. Years later, now an adult, these two men get brought together by a matchmaking snake and finally put the past behind them.
I thought this story was cute, I liked that they didn't get together right away. Both Caelan and Walker have obvious chemistry with one another and that shows with their dialogue with each other. I found the story progressed nicely, I also liked how there wasn't too many steamy scenes. They had intimate moments without steamy scenes and I really appreciated that in this story.
Walker calling Caelan 'kitty' is so adorable! I just love the relationship these two form with one another. I also LOVED Ro, he was so sassy and snarky. The chapters in his POV provided humor and lightness to the story and helped move things along in a nice way.
The conflict of Caelan's past did cause a bit of angst which was a great accompaniment, however, I think things got resolved too quickly. It felt as thought it was glossed over and rushed. Other than that though, a great story!
After Caelan got told the he and Walker are fated mates when Walker was just a child he decided the best thing would be to leave.. Caelan was Walker's best friend when he was younger but then Caelan disappeared with no reason, leading to Walker having resentment towards the other man. Years later, now an adult, these two men get brought together by a matchmaking snake and finally put the past behind them.
I thought this story was cute, I liked that they didn't get together right away. Both Caelan and Walker have obvious chemistry with one another and that shows with their dialogue with each other. I found the story progressed nicely, I also liked how there wasn't too many steamy scenes. They had intimate moments without steamy scenes and I really appreciated that in this story.
Walker calling Caelan 'kitty' is so adorable! I just love the relationship these two form with one another. I also LOVED Ro, he was so sassy and snarky. The chapters in his POV provided humor and lightness to the story and helped move things along in a nice way.
The conflict of Caelan's past did cause a bit of angst which was a great accompaniment, however, I think things got resolved too quickly. It felt as thought it was glossed over and rushed. Other than that though, a great story!
January 27, 2025
**This review has been electronically translated into English.
* ⭐️
It was a disappointment, and that's it.
I understand that it's a fantasy book, but this is ridiculous. A being was captured, the captor escaped and everyone knows he'll try again, especially since the guy is using one of the few types of magic that can reach a being from the Otherworld. Instead of going back to the Otherworld until they manage to capture the executioner, what do they do? They stay in the human world, walking up and down, as if there were no danger and to top it off, they leave without the only security they had, knowing that they were being followed by his henchmen.
Just writing this review made me angrier and I'm going to lower it another star.
I've been looking forward to Caelan and Walker's book ever since I found out they were destined companions. I've read all the books in this universe and without a doubt the ones I liked the most were the books about Walker's parents. But this one was a huge disappointment. Even Ro'Shassz got soft.
On top of everything, it's already repetitive. I understand that the author writes about demisexuality, asexuality, etc. But 99% of the books in all the series that were interconnected in this created universe had one or two of the MCs demi or asexual and it got very repetitive, it doesn't add anything, they change the villains and heroes, everything is very convenient. Tiresome.
Dual POV. Caelan and Walker.
Mention of the sexual assault suffered by the two MCs in their childhood.
Mention of the sale of the two MCs by their parents.
Paranormal. Life after death.
Requires patience if you want to read.
* ⭐️
It was a disappointment, and that's it.
I understand that it's a fantasy book, but this is ridiculous. A being was captured, the captor escaped and everyone knows he'll try again, especially since the guy is using one of the few types of magic that can reach a being from the Otherworld. Instead of going back to the Otherworld until they manage to capture the executioner, what do they do? They stay in the human world, walking up and down, as if there were no danger and to top it off, they leave without the only security they had, knowing that they were being followed by his henchmen.
Just writing this review made me angrier and I'm going to lower it another star.
I've been looking forward to Caelan and Walker's book ever since I found out they were destined companions. I've read all the books in this universe and without a doubt the ones I liked the most were the books about Walker's parents. But this one was a huge disappointment. Even Ro'Shassz got soft.
On top of everything, it's already repetitive. I understand that the author writes about demisexuality, asexuality, etc. But 99% of the books in all the series that were interconnected in this created universe had one or two of the MCs demi or asexual and it got very repetitive, it doesn't add anything, they change the villains and heroes, everything is very convenient. Tiresome.
Dual POV. Caelan and Walker.
Mention of the sexual assault suffered by the two MCs in their childhood.
Mention of the sale of the two MCs by their parents.
Paranormal. Life after death.
Requires patience if you want to read.
January 26, 2025
I have been looking forward to reading Walker and Caelan's story for so long. Let me just say, the wait was totally worth it. I could not be happier with how it turned out. As always with Stella's stories, I just want more because I fall in love with every character. Outside of the couple themselves, my favorite aspect of this book was how Ro'Shassz was incorporated. I found his role to be so cute and funny. He is the friend that everyone needs in their life, because he was so supportive while also being truthful. This was the case, even when Walker or Caelan didn't want to hear it. In addition to this,
It always surprises me how well Stella manages to blend other characters from Mistvale into each new book.
Each time I came across a side character, I found myself wanting to read their story and the connected series, too. For me, this first happened with Nox and the Lords of Otherworld series. If you are someone who loves fated mates and found family, you should definitely give Stella Rainbow's books a chance!
It always surprises me how well Stella manages to blend other characters from Mistvale into each new book.
Each time I came across a side character, I found myself wanting to read their story and the connected series, too. For me, this first happened with Nox and the Lords of Otherworld series. If you are someone who loves fated mates and found family, you should definitely give Stella Rainbow's books a chance!
January 29, 2025
Can I just start by saying the Ro stole the show?! The sassy snake made me laugh out loud so many times with his shenanigans. He made the story so much better and entertaining. I loved Caelen and Walker so much. Two broken souls that needed each other to be mended. I know Walker behaved like a brat but he didn’t know how to deal with his feelings of abandonment. It was hard for him to understand why Caelen left him. My heart broke for Caelen. He did what he thought was the right thing in order to protect himself, even if that meant hurting those he loved the most. Sometimes you have to make sacrifices even if that means breaking your own heart. I hope we do get more of Ro, Caelen and Walker. They’re the perfect three musketeers! They were so fun to read about.
January 26, 2025
Caelan and Walker at last
I've been waiting for Walker to grow up so Caelan can finally get his happily ever after, and for Walker's story to complete. Both had such a traumatic past deserved all the happiness. We already knew about Walker's past, but it was heart wrenching learning about Caelan and I now understand why he went away. It took awhile for Walker to understand and forgive him. I'm just happy we had Ro's meddling or it would have taken a lot longer than four years. I look forward to their next adventure.
I've been waiting for Walker to grow up so Caelan can finally get his happily ever after, and for Walker's story to complete. Both had such a traumatic past deserved all the happiness. We already knew about Walker's past, but it was heart wrenching learning about Caelan and I now understand why he went away. It took awhile for Walker to understand and forgive him. I'm just happy we had Ro's meddling or it would have taken a lot longer than four years. I look forward to their next adventure.
January 29, 2025
(Doloris’s Review ) I received a ARC from the Author, this is my honest review.
I really enjoyed this book. From the moment I finished Fate’s Gambit and realized that Walker and Caelan were getting their own book, I knew the book would be a great read. Of course my favorite part of the book was Ro’Shaaaz “Steps” and how he dealt with Walker and Caelan shenanigans :). I felt heartbroken about Caelan’s past and how Walker treated him. How it was revealed to Walker that they were mates was genius! The book is definitely “a must read “. Kudos to the author for this book.
I really enjoyed this book. From the moment I finished Fate’s Gambit and realized that Walker and Caelan were getting their own book, I knew the book would be a great read. Of course my favorite part of the book was Ro’Shaaaz “Steps” and how he dealt with Walker and Caelan shenanigans :). I felt heartbroken about Caelan’s past and how Walker treated him. How it was revealed to Walker that they were mates was genius! The book is definitely “a must read “. Kudos to the author for this book.
January 25, 2025
I just love this series and though it's been a while it was great to see the next generation get their story and hea. A definite re read is due!!! I absolutely loved Caelan and Walker’s relationship from when it started and how it developed. Such fantastic characters, many who we had met previously so a brilliant catch up. The storyline was simply brilliant and so well written. 10/10
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
February 5, 2025
Caelan and Walker’s story
Oh my heart loved this book!! So many misunderstandings miss moments but so worth it in the end.
Honestly I thought I would go into this book with walker being my favourite character out of the two with all the hurt he had previously gone through. I was totally wrong Caelan melted my heart and stole it.
I really enjoyed these two’s love story it was so well written and head everything you want from an amazing book.
Oh my heart loved this book!! So many misunderstandings miss moments but so worth it in the end.
Honestly I thought I would go into this book with walker being my favourite character out of the two with all the hurt he had previously gone through. I was totally wrong Caelan melted my heart and stole it.
I really enjoyed these two’s love story it was so well written and head everything you want from an amazing book.
April 27, 2025
It's always a pleasure to see how a universe evolves and how our favorite characters grow. Caelan and Walker's story is wonderful, and they both deserve every second of happiness they've found after everything they've endured in their pasts. It's a pleasure to see them overcome adversity and find each other. A wonderful book, a beautiful love story, and a very satisfying ending. Ro'Shassz is the best!
January 12, 2025
I read the Fates Gambit series in 2020? I think.
Anyway, I was intrigued with Walker and Caelan from the very end of that and was so excited to see that their story was out!
The two of them were adorable and my heart hurt so badly for Caelan 😭
Ro was hilarious and I loved his commentary throughout.
Anyway, I was intrigued with Walker and Caelan from the very end of that and was so excited to see that their story was out!
The two of them were adorable and my heart hurt so badly for Caelan 😭
Ro was hilarious and I loved his commentary throughout.
January 19, 2025
Totally worth the wait!
I’ve been looking forward to Caelan and Walker’s story and it didn’t disappoint.
Brilliant book! Well written, intriguing characters and a storyline that just pulled me in.
Highly recommend!
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
I’ve been looking forward to Caelan and Walker’s story and it didn’t disappoint.
Brilliant book! Well written, intriguing characters and a storyline that just pulled me in.
Highly recommend!
*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*
January 21, 2025
I was very interested in how this was going to play out. I'm not always a fan of age gaps where one has to grow up around the other. I do think that Stella did a fantastic job with this book. Both of the main characters were put through so much in their human lives and even after! I love getting to read the happily ever afters of the kids! Can't wait for more!!
January 22, 2025
Caelan and Walker’s book is great. I love the story and how their relationship started and grew. I love the past characters visiting and I absolutely love Ro’s commentary lol. The book had a nice amount of steam, and the caring relationship you expect from this author.I really enjoyed this book, and I think you should read it!
February 9, 2025
Ro is the man...
I was really cranky over the constant insecurity between these two, then it's I love you in a few days. Kym gave up his fire to fix the Chasm then he gets called to heal Cae. Walker being stupid enough to go out for food after all they have been through was just icing on the cake for me. The 3rd star is for Ro.
I was really cranky over the constant insecurity between these two, then it's I love you in a few days. Kym gave up his fire to fix the Chasm then he gets called to heal Cae. Walker being stupid enough to go out for food after all they have been through was just icing on the cake for me. The 3rd star is for Ro.
March 24, 2025
Not bad or anything but I wasn't really feeling it. Still, in these terrible times (of descending into dictatorship/authoritarianism) I guess this was as much of provided a sliver of distraction that I needed.
Perhaps I would have gotten more out of it if I'd read the previous books? Um, I assume there were previous books?
Perhaps I would have gotten more out of it if I'd read the previous books? Um, I assume there were previous books?
January 19, 2025
I absolutely loved this story. I’ve been waiting for Walker and Caelan’s story since I first saw them in Fates Gambit and it definitely did not disappoint. This was such a wonderful story with fantastic characters and a spectacular world. I can’t wait to see more of these guys.
January 20, 2025
AN OUTSTANDING READ WITH A MAGICAL WORLD.
I really enjoyed this read. I loved Walker and Caelan so much! I also loved Ro’Shassz! It was a beautifully written story that held my attention from start to finish.
I really enjoyed this read. I loved Walker and Caelan so much! I also loved Ro’Shassz! It was a beautifully written story that held my attention from start to finish.
February 16, 2025
Not my cup of tea. Walker was such a manchild, emotionally self centered and whiny. And Caelan was too depressing with his bleeding heart. No wonder the magical snake, Ro’Shassz, played matchmaker to end this headache between them. In fact Ro was the only character I enjoyed in this book.
June 27, 2025
The book was fine. Walker for was a dick. Caelan was cool. Their relationship did work after Walker found out.
The main thing that bothers me is
angst 3/5
heat 1.5/5 N0
story 3.5
POV dual
The main thing that bothers me is
angst 3/5
heat 1.5/5 N0
story 3.5
POV dual
January 25, 2025
The world building with these characters will keep you glued to the pages. they will take us along the up and down ride until love conquers all
February 1, 2025
Did his supposedly protective dads really just leave him in the human realm after caelan got and abducted and they didn’t find who torture him??
April 28, 2025
I have been enjoying this universe.
July 30, 2025
After the many years spent apart, I was very much looking forward to the story about Walker and Caelan, but it felt like an afterthought.
January 31, 2025
The Prince's Mate is part of Stella Rainbow's Otherworld series. I enjoyed reading this book and seeing the grown-up version of Walker from the previous books. The story is interesting, has the same fantastic world-building as the other books, and has all the spice. The MM scenes work well, and the relationships evolve sweet and spicy. Overall, I enjoyed this book.
January 28, 2025
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. Walker and Caelan are so cute together, tough on the outside but soft on the inside that I just want to cuddle them and smack their heads together at the same time. This story is a simple story on wanting and loving someone that they would do anything for them and knowing that it hurts when they aren't there.
February 8, 2025
Worth the wait
If you are a fan of Otherworld you have been waiting for Caelan and Walker's story. To find your mate who is so young was but even harder when he grows up and hates you. Ro'Shassz is great about playing matchmaker for the two. We learn why Caelan refused to hang around Walker as a child and how that helps them grow closer. When the mate bond is revealed to Walker the possibility opens up. A long awaited journey of love unfolds with rescue and danger in between. A great love story.
If you are a fan of Otherworld you have been waiting for Caelan and Walker's story. To find your mate who is so young was but even harder when he grows up and hates you. Ro'Shassz is great about playing matchmaker for the two. We learn why Caelan refused to hang around Walker as a child and how that helps them grow closer. When the mate bond is revealed to Walker the possibility opens up. A long awaited journey of love unfolds with rescue and danger in between. A great love story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 11, 2025
My Rating : 3.5/5
Book 013 / February 2025 / Kindle e-Book
.
This book honestly tingled all my mood reading brain. It has tropes i enjoy reading about in a book, and honestly the characters made me root for them to get together. It might be funny at times, or not dive deep into dark themes, but one of or main characters ,Walker, has been through hell before he turned five. Walker had such impact to the story, and I feel like the second chance element to the book fits well with the plot and the characters involved. I absolutely loved Caelan and his patience, and the way he gave up everything for Walker! It had the friends to no contact to kind of enemies to lovers and I absolutely ate it up. Ah.. the only thing I didn't like was the miscommunication between the characters, but with meddling dads and a talking snake, they got nothing to worry about ! Overall, an amazing read if you need something emotional yet funny !
Book 013 / February 2025 / Kindle e-Book
.
This book honestly tingled all my mood reading brain. It has tropes i enjoy reading about in a book, and honestly the characters made me root for them to get together. It might be funny at times, or not dive deep into dark themes, but one of or main characters ,Walker, has been through hell before he turned five. Walker had such impact to the story, and I feel like the second chance element to the book fits well with the plot and the characters involved. I absolutely loved Caelan and his patience, and the way he gave up everything for Walker! It had the friends to no contact to kind of enemies to lovers and I absolutely ate it up. Ah.. the only thing I didn't like was the miscommunication between the characters, but with meddling dads and a talking snake, they got nothing to worry about ! Overall, an amazing read if you need something emotional yet funny !
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews