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The Kitten and His Prince

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Felix

Employed at Pierced Pretties, Felix is used to caring about the needs of others. When Prince Rainier comes looking for a Kitten, Felix is sure he won’t be chosen. Except he is. Not only does Rainier dote on him, he respects boundaries and is willing to let Felix set them too. Felix never imagined Rainier would be quite so sweet and adoring, but as they grow closer, the Prince grows thinner.

Rainier

He’s spent years controlling his intake. Even though some have told him he’s too thin, he knows he needs to lose weight thanks to his prudish Mum’s constant complaints: He needs less food and more self-control. He’s just like his dead Father and sister.

Pampering and spoiling his Kitten brings Rainier joy. He’s supposed to be the one to take care of others, but when Felix flips their roles, it might be what he needs. If he wants a future with Felix, he’ll have to gain and lose some things he didn’t think were possible. 

276 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 29, 2023

37 people are currently reading
396 people want to read

About the author

Julie Mannino

56 books146 followers
Author of the Alternate Earth Novels

Ace 🖤🤍💜
Autistic
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I primarily write MM and fantasy/paranormal romance. If you like a trope or certain type, I've either got it or I'm working on it😊

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5 stars
42 (32%)
4 stars
35 (27%)
3 stars
33 (25%)
2 stars
10 (7%)
1 star
9 (6%)
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Profile Image for Julie Mannino.
Author 56 books146 followers
Currently reading
October 28, 2023
This M/M Romance contains:

Kitten play (ears, tail, bell collar, toys, treats!)
A sweet fairy dom who loves caring for his sub
A sweet human sub who loves pleasing his dom
Both have piercings, and Rainier has a Jacob’s Ladder
Praise Kink
Fluff and cuddles
Crown Prince/sex worker pairing
Positive view of sex work(ers)
Consent Kings
Minor bondage and spanking
Biting
A HEA


TW: This contains a Prince with anorexia which may be highly triggering to some people who have or have had EDs in the past. The language in the book is different from today (they don't have the word calorie for examples), but I tried to keep it realistic from my own experiences.

Unfortunately, Mum in the books is based on real life people that I've known, and her parental behavior is not uncommon according to others I've known years ago who dealt with similar situations. Sadly, there are parents who will tell their emaciated child that they're fat and need to lose weight, and gaslight them. Abuse is not always physical.

If this material might nudge you back into unhealthy behaviors or thought patterns, please put it away. I won't be offended, and I want my readers to put their mental health first.

Includes unhealthy body image, actions, and behaviors related to anorexia and EDNOS (eating disorder not otherwise specified).
Self harm from starvation/heavy food restriction.
Self harm of another character due to bulimia.
Grief.
Family death from bulimia (past)
Death of parent (past).
Verbal/mental abuse from living parent and mental enforcement of unhealthy restriction, patterns, body image, blaming.
Controlling parent.
Rocky son/mother relationship. Narcissistic behaviors from parent
Unhealthy relationship with food in general with the whole family.
Difficulty with recovery, accepting help, changing behaviors related to eating.

Tws not related to eating disorder

Minor distrust/dislike of a kink due to event in Felix's past. (Minor description)

Incident of abuse from a side character to Felix (There is NO abuse between Rainier and Felix).
Mention of death long ago in Felix's past.

A Mum that keeps trying to control her son's private life including his relationships.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
18 reviews
October 29, 2023
This opened my eyes up to a lot of stuff about eating disorders. I felt like it was handled well by the author (they would know).
The two Mcs were a match in heaven, and I loved the way things grew between them. So sweet and it balanced out the harder stuff that Rainier went through.
Also, Inky made it a little better because...well...cats make everything better.
The cover too, holy moly, gorgeous 😍
Profile Image for Petra .
417 reviews28 followers
October 31, 2023
What an interesting book tackling lots of serious issues. And I really loved it.

The smut was so so hot and just well written. I normally do not seek pet kink books but this one was just my kinda thing. There was lots of talking about consent, about learning to trust (with some abuse on page, not between the MCs!), and lots of cuddles.

The eating disorder was done realistically and does not disappear magically just because of "love". The caretaking (between both MCs) was to die for and I savored any interaction they had. I'm also happy that the MCs are not separated for long periods of time, there is no third act break up, and no unnecessary drama between the two of them. Most of the angst is not between the couple.

I have some issues with the book and so I cannot give it full 5* even though I'd love to because I could not put the book down.
- the worldbuilding could've been more detailed. There are some mentionings about glass plants, some magic (though the difference between fairies and humans is not explained, only that humans are more fragile, conservative, and don't do magic). There is a hint at mpreg in the epilogue but not more so it felt out of place.

- the romance progression - I loved the MCs and the way they treated each other, but there is almost no build up to their feelings across the book. The men are into each other from the very beginning and then the is more focus on kink exploration. And we do not really got any huge confession scene. I mean, maybe in a novella as a follow up? I would not complain. It is not insta love, but more insta adoration and insta submission.

- the complication near the end got resolved too smoothly. No one (besides the villain) really complains, everyone is okay with what is about to happen, and tah-dah! A happy ending! That did not really feel right and I was questioning the loyalty of the people of the city.

Overall, I loved the book and would definitely read more hurt/comfort kinky books by the author!
Profile Image for Najma.
31 reviews2 followers
November 1, 2023
It was just what I needed. amazing story
Profile Image for Ava S..
55 reviews1 follower
November 7, 2023
Absolutely beautiful 🥺

This was a beautiful couple that worked so well together and was well fleshed out on their own too. All of the characters felt so real, and the cousin Natalie was amazing. It really showed how unhealthy habits/thinking can affect a whole family in all different ways.
The kitten and praise kink was HOT, and honestly, there's not enough mm kitten kink books.

Besides the hurt comfort aspect that I ate with a spoon, the consent with both was amazing too. I saw on fb somewhere that consent is sexy, and they ain't lying.
Profile Image for Vicky Peplow.
Author 74 books63 followers
December 4, 2023
A Unique Love Story

I have read a couple of other books by this author, and this fantasy M/M Romance is definitely one of her best. However, I did find myself skipping parts and then picking up the read again.
If you are easily offended by descriptive sex scenes, then this book is maybe not for you, and it even made me blush a little, lol.
Within this book, the author has her characters, especially Prince Rainier, to deal with a lot of issues, which some may find as a trigger, so please be aware of this.
The author also has her other main character, Felix, also dealing with his own issues.
I don't want to give away spoilers, but with every fantasy romance everything turns out with a happy ending and would love to see if there's going to be a second book to this one. I would definitely be interested on seeing how the story could continue between King Rainier and King Felix and Rainer's mom.

93 reviews
April 14, 2024
Just….so incredibly poorly written. Author loved the words “stuff” and “whatever” way, way too much. And the eating disorder was depicted in graphic detail (including, spoiler, Rainer’s sister killing herself through bulimia when she’s a teenager, and we get the GRAPHIC detail of that), but not at all handled with care. It read very much like baby’s first whatpadd story about “real issues” without any of the finesse such topics require.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Author 5 books4 followers
January 6, 2024
It was a cute book. I don't know what I expected when I picked it up, but it wasn't what I got. This is kind of... I don't want to say BDSM heavy, in case that's the wrong word, but roleplay stuff is definitely—way out of my realm of knowledge. Still, I didn't mind reading it, even after I realized it was not what I thought it was.

Basically, it's about a male stripper/prostitute. I don't think he's a stripper; I am not sure. It's a male and male love story based in a fantasy world where the main character is a human who indulges people's sexual fantasies for money. Anyway, it was cute. There was enough character development for everything not to be flat and boring, and there was some action and drama. I like drama, so I binged the story most at these points.

The main character is bought by the prince of the realm, who literally gives zero fucks about everything and anything. I get the vibe that the prince uses these sexual fantasies to escape the super crappy mom he has. I can't say I blame him, considering she's the reason he's anorexic. He also has a super sad backstory in that he blames himself for bad stuff for which he can't blame himself. Cat boy makes it better. (I say cat boy because that's the kink in this story)

There was a good progression, some growth, and spicy stuff. It was a decent read, but not my cup of tea entirely. I did finish the book; it wasn't a chore to do, and it was very easy to read, but I probably wouldn't read it again. I liked the way the author writes and is able to describe things. They weren't lacking in description or emotion, so I think that's why I stuck with it. There were many good things, even if I wasn't fully into the type of story it was. I would read other things by them.
4 reviews
November 3, 2023
Oof. Right in the feels.

The queen was scarily relatable to...certain people I've known. If you have a good mom and think the queen is too much or unrealistic, be thankful you can't relate. That's all I'm saying on that. The authors note was entirely right.

Rainier and Felix's growing relationship had me pasted to my phone. All the snuggles, the praise, the kittenplay. When Rainier saved Felix in the beginning, I was love with him. 💞💞

Besides the obvious, I think one of my favorite things was the consent between them. That was like a really big thing, and it was refreshing for a change to see it wasn't ALL sub focused. RAINIER needed to feel comfortable with "that thing" (no spoilers) as well, and I feel like most books don't think as much about how the dom feels in that area. But its totally true because the consent has to come from both, and doms might need time too before they get into something.

I think mannino showed the relationship between these two perfectly, and with the unique style and world, I was sad it ended, but at the same time, it was great as a standalone. This is probably one of those ill have to revisit because I loved them so much
Profile Image for Alison Wilkinson.
97 reviews10 followers
November 4, 2023
DNF - I read about 20% and it was fuelled by morbid curiosity for about 18% of that.

I won't kink-shame but:
-I didn't realise the Kitten aspect was so literal
-The dystopian pet play set in a grand universe with so much lore was very hard for me to process whilst some merchant was telling a dude all of them had dick piercings
-The buying process where they tried to compete to be bought felt... weird. And I've read Omega Auction and Winner's Curse and stuff. Don't know why I didn't like it here
-Describing their jealousy about their tail plug and plastic paws not being as good as another "kitten" was also just a no for me, personally.
-I like bdsm, so the gagging part safety was kinda cute, but I didn't like how infantilising their interactions felt.

Maybe that's just on me for not vibing with that kind of play, or for not understanding what exactly this book was before going into it.

You might like it - it seems to do the kink well, and the characters aren't insufferable, but I was toeing the line with just thinking "Kitten" was a pet name, never mind an actual pet that swipes at a feather and doesn't talk.

Written well, though. So, y'know, gets it a point.
196 reviews5 followers
November 19, 2023
Julie Mannino's "The Kitten and His Prince: An M/M Fairy Romance" is a heartwarming journey into the realms of LGBTQ+ fantasy and romantic fantasy. The story revolves around Felix, a caring soul employed at Pierced Pretties, whose life takes an unexpected turn when Prince Rainier seeks a companion. Mannino crafts a narrative that delicately balances the dynamics between Felix and Rainier, navigating themes of love, self-discovery, and transformation.
Felix, initially uncertain about his place in Rainier's world, discovers a relationship that goes beyond the surface. Rainier, burdened by familial expectations, finds solace and joy in pampering his chosen Kitten. The author skillfully weaves a tale of mutual respect, breaking away from societal norms, and the transformative power of love.
"The Kitten and His Prince" explores themes of body image and self-acceptance, adding depth to the characters and their journey. Mannino's writing is both tender and evocative, creating a magical atmosphere that captivates readers. This M/M fairy romance is not just a love story; it's a celebration of individuality and the courage to defy expectations for the sake of genuine connection.
Profile Image for Lucas W Mayberry.
Author 3 books36 followers
December 14, 2023
Unique romance showing that love can conquer all

Felix is a human living in the fairy world. He has survived by selling his body to male fairies and feels that is all he is good for. That is until he meets Prince Rainer who has an unusual fetish where he treats his sex slaves as kittens. He takes Felix home intending on him being his slave for six months. But it soon develops into fully fledged romance between the two. However it soon becomes clear that the Crown Prince has a serious illness that could kill him if Felix’s love for him doesn’t turn him around. With Rainer’s mother The Queen a nasty despicable person set on abusing Rainer and getting rid of Felix it’s not going to be plain sailing.
I have read a few books by Julie Mannino and I can honestly say this is one of her best. She brings up the awkward topic of mental health and is quite sensitive about it while also offering a realistic perspective in terms of how eating disorders can effect someone and the ones around them. I do hope we see more of Felix and Rainer.
Profile Image for isthisakink.
1,262 reviews23 followers
May 25, 2025
I was terrified this would wind up a situation in which Felix could’ve just been Fiona and it would’ve been the same book. I am so happy it wasn’t.

The thing I didn’t enjoy was the absolute mess the mechanics were. It needs some serious editing and proofing, but the bones were fantastic. The story was hard, but really sweet and I enjoy that it wasn’t an immediate, perfect ending where everything was suddenly rainbows and buttercups. It was realistic even as it was all steeped in fantasy.

I also feel like I missed out on books that set up the world, and I wish the world building had been a bit more… there? Detailed? Thorough? I don’t know how to put it, but I felt like I should’ve already had the information I was lacking and I hate that feeling.

3/5. Basically, it needs some TLC, but it’s a good story and the characters were wonderful and I loved the healing. I love a respectful, insightful book.
Profile Image for Letizia.
50 reviews1 follower
February 23, 2026
I admit, i came for the kink but stayed for the really well written story

Tl;dr it’s honestly a great story but READ THE TWs!


I never read anything exploring eating disorders this well and/or this in depth
The relationship between the MCs was lovely to see grow, it also felt realistic in the way they noticed and dealt with Rainier ed (the not noticing at first, the rage Felix felt, how they both tried at the end…)

The queen…i really really wanted to smack the queen for the entire time
The nagging, the power abuse, the way she treated Felix and sex work in general…
I’m glad in the end she got what she deserved (Felix yelling at her was sooooo satisfying)
And i’m so glad the prince didn’t get fixed because of magic or love but he’s actually trying so hard in the end
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
20 reviews
February 8, 2024
This gave me so many warm fuzzys and it was hot too. Rainier and Felix were a good pair, and the Prince’s eating disorder was well handled. He had support,but this wasn't a dumb "love cured it"

I like that he cut out his Mum. Parents can be really abusive even when the kid grows up, and even though it ducks, sometimes cutting out toxic people is the best option. You CANT always talk them into being decent people, and this book was really realistic on that.

The kinky cat play was so cute and hot too. It doesn't interest me in real life, but in books...oh yeah.

Also...I wanna a unicorn now.
Profile Image for James Moore.
Author 8 books2 followers
November 7, 2023
Julie Mannino's "The Kitten and His Prince" is a heartwarming romance that beautifully explores the themes of love, acceptance, and self-discovery. This enchanting story introduces readers to Felix, an endearing character whose job at Pierced Pretties reflects his caring and compassionate nature. Felix is used to looking after others, but he doesn't expect Prince Rainier to choose him as his Kitten. When he does, their lives take an unexpected turn, leading to a deep and meaningful connection.
Profile Image for Rachel.
4,028 reviews62 followers
January 27, 2024
I would have given this book 5 stars if there had been more world building, a less abrupt ending, and maybe a bit more time showing how the characters fell in love outside of indulging their kink. Otherwise, I enjoyed the character development, and I loved how the author dealt with Rainier's eating disorder, how it didn't disappear because of falling in love and getting proper emotional support after cutting off his abusive mother.
Profile Image for Diane Dannenfeldt.
4,037 reviews78 followers
June 11, 2024
pretty good

I would have liked to see them married and Rainer in a better headspace. His mother was just evil. This is a new to me author and I’ll have to check out some of her other books.
Profile Image for dvlac.
23 reviews
June 22, 2024
The writing and plot are kind of simplistic. There's not much at stake, and the worldbuilding leaves much to be desired. The premise sounded promising and I feel like if it were more fleshed out, it would have really hit the spot.

The smut scenes were hot, but the chemistry between the two leads could have been more fleshed out. That's it really. It's a book for when you want to shut your mind off and read something simple. Not for the faint of heart though regarding the eating disorder, so heed the warnings!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews

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