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Alpha & Omega
Blind Date with a Werewolf
When the deadly werewolf Asil is gifted five blind dates by some anonymous “friends,” his reclusive life will never be the same, in this enthralling novel in stories from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Mercy Thompson series.
Includes two all-new stories as well as three previously published stories.
Dear
We are worried about you. A werewolf alone is a sad thing, especially at Christmastime. So we have a challenge for five dates in three weeks. We have taken the work out of it and connected you with five people from online dating sites. You should also know that we have informed the whole pack and instigated a betting pool. Have fun!
Sincerely,
Your Concerned Friends
Includes two all-new stories as well as three previously published stories.
Dear
We are worried about you. A werewolf alone is a sad thing, especially at Christmastime. So we have a challenge for five dates in three weeks. We have taken the work out of it and connected you with five people from online dating sites. You should also know that we have informed the whole pack and instigated a betting pool. Have fun!
Sincerely,
Your Concerned Friends
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 21, 2025
487 people are currently reading
17071 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Briggs
114 books30k followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Patricia Briggs was born in Butte, Montana, to a children’s librarian who passed on to her kids a love of reading and books. Patricia grew up reading fairy tales and books about horses, and later developed an interest in folklore and history. When she decided to write a book of her own, a fantasy book seemed a natural choice. Patricia graduated from Montana State University with degrees in history and German and she worked for a while as a substitute teacher. Currently, she lives in Montana with her husband, children, and six horses and writes full time, much to the delight of her fans.
Patricia Briggs was born in Butte, Montana, to a children’s librarian who passed on to her kids a love of reading and books. Patricia grew up reading fairy tales and books about horses, and later developed an interest in folklore and history. When she decided to write a book of her own, a fantasy book seemed a natural choice. Patricia graduated from Montana State University with degrees in history and German and she worked for a while as a substitute teacher. Currently, she lives in Montana with her husband, children, and six horses and writes full time, much to the delight of her fans.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 621 reviews
September 11, 2025
Blind Date with a Werewolf
by Patricia Briggs is comprised of five short stories and an epilogue in the Alpha and Omega universe. Two of the stories are new while three were previously published. However, in this book, they are weaved together into one storyline.
Deadly and reclusive werewolf Asil is gifted five blind dates by some anonymous and concerned friends. Their first email to him lets him know that they are worried about him and that they have set a challenge for him of five dates they’ve arranged through different online dating sites. All of them will take place in the next three weeks and before Christmas. There are additional requirements Asil must meet for the dates to be deemed successful. Not one to turn down a challenge, he accepts and gets the information for his first date.
Asil is powerful, brooding, fast, strong, graceful, curious, and tends toward isolation. He is fond of seeing justice done.
With great characterization as usual, the author had me fully engaged with a compelling story. What a novel idea! It was fun to watch Asil as he progressed through five very different dates and the challenges associated with them. I loved the first, fourth, and fifth dates. I enjoyed the third date a little less and the second one was my least favorite. The second date story is the aftermath and cleanup after the date and wasn’t as enjoyable as experiencing the actual date with Asil. The dates deal with good versus evil in some form or fashion and none of them are what they seem like to start with. It also deals with grief, loss, violence, and romance as well as dedication and caring for others.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this novelization of five short stories into a cohesive plot line. There was plenty of action as well as the dates, but the best thing was getting to know Asil and finding out if he could be less lonely and reclusive while being a protector of innocents. Those who enjoy urban fantasies or other books by Patricia Briggs will likely enjoy this one.
Berkley Publishing Group – Ace and Patricia Briggs provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for October 21, 2025.
Deadly and reclusive werewolf Asil is gifted five blind dates by some anonymous and concerned friends. Their first email to him lets him know that they are worried about him and that they have set a challenge for him of five dates they’ve arranged through different online dating sites. All of them will take place in the next three weeks and before Christmas. There are additional requirements Asil must meet for the dates to be deemed successful. Not one to turn down a challenge, he accepts and gets the information for his first date.
Asil is powerful, brooding, fast, strong, graceful, curious, and tends toward isolation. He is fond of seeing justice done.
With great characterization as usual, the author had me fully engaged with a compelling story. What a novel idea! It was fun to watch Asil as he progressed through five very different dates and the challenges associated with them. I loved the first, fourth, and fifth dates. I enjoyed the third date a little less and the second one was my least favorite. The second date story is the aftermath and cleanup after the date and wasn’t as enjoyable as experiencing the actual date with Asil. The dates deal with good versus evil in some form or fashion and none of them are what they seem like to start with. It also deals with grief, loss, violence, and romance as well as dedication and caring for others.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this novelization of five short stories into a cohesive plot line. There was plenty of action as well as the dates, but the best thing was getting to know Asil and finding out if he could be less lonely and reclusive while being a protector of innocents. Those who enjoy urban fantasies or other books by Patricia Briggs will likely enjoy this one.
Berkley Publishing Group – Ace and Patricia Briggs provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for October 21, 2025.
September 22, 2025
This was such a fun book to read! It contains a collection of five short stories, with some of them being new and some have already been previously published. I really enjoyed how they were all intertwined together and came with an epilogue. I found this book to be adventurous, lighthearted, mysterious and funny! It gave me a lot of laughs, while reading it! This is a medium to fast paced read, where the characters were strongly developed. The werewolf goes on five blind dates, which are the five different novels in this book. This came with a diverse cast of characters, with my favorite being the werewolf! This is not a romance heavy book, it is more subtle. It has supernatural elements and is action packed. This book comes with a surprise and enjoyable entertainment! Be sure to check the content warnings prior to reading this great book. Overall, I give this book a 4 out of 5 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley, author Patricia Briggs and Berkley Publishing Group for this digital ARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This book is expected to be published on October 21, 2025!
Thank you to NetGalley, author Patricia Briggs and Berkley Publishing Group for this digital ARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This book is expected to be published on October 21, 2025!
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November 27, 2025DNF @30% because I realized I simply did not care😭
July 15, 2025
Asil wasn't particularly one of my favorite characters in the Mercy-verse, but after this book he definitely moved up several spots! I had not read any of the three stories that were previously published, so this whole book (five stories total) was new to me. Some of the stories were stronger than others, but overall this was a fun read. The "concerned friend" reveal was an especially fun surprise.
I received a free ARC of this book through Netgalley but this did not impact my rating or review. This book is expected to be published on October 24, 2025.
Now I'm back to anxiously awaiting the next Charles/Anna book (I've been waiting since 2021!)
I received a free ARC of this book through Netgalley but this did not impact my rating or review. This book is expected to be published on October 24, 2025.
Now I'm back to anxiously awaiting the next Charles/Anna book (I've been waiting since 2021!)
October 28, 2025
I was so happy to return to the world of Mercy Thompson! I love that the talented Patricia Briggs is sharing more stories from that world and allowing us to intimately get to know some of the secondary characters. The whole blind date idea is brilliant! Asil has been a mysterious and dangerous character I've definitely wanted to know more about, and this novel gave us quite a bit of insight into his past—and now that it looks like he's going to actually have a future I hope we get to know a lot more about him! As always with the Mercy Thompson books, the world is richly drawn and populated with interesting characters. I wished it had been another couple hundred pages longer. I definitely didn't want it to end! Patricia! Give us more give us more! XXXXOOOO
September 8, 2025
Fantastic!
As a HUGE fan of Patricia Briggs, Blind Date with a Werewolf felt like a special dessert!
You could read this book without knowing all the players, but why would you when this series—or universe—is so unique?
I love Mercy and Anna, the two main characters of the Mercyverse. Both are so distinct and unforgettable. Patricia Briggs has a knack for creating compelling characters, and this is where Asil comes into play.
Asil, better known as the Moor, is an ancient werewolf who is smart, gorgeous, and highly lethal. To the human eye, Asil appears young, but looks can be deceiving. If humans only knew that Asil’s wolf is always a moment away from a murderous rampage, they’d run for their lives.
During the Christmas season, Asil receives an email from an unknown sender signed “Your Concerned Friends.” They’ve arranged five blind dates for him. Though tempted to decline, Asil’s curiosity gets the better of him, and he decides to go along with it.
To say the least, none of the dates were what you’d call normal, but all were captivating. I loved all five short stories and wouldn’t mind seeing some of these characters appear in either series. More Asil and Ruby are always welcome!
Cliffhanger: No
5/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Ace via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
As a HUGE fan of Patricia Briggs, Blind Date with a Werewolf felt like a special dessert!
You could read this book without knowing all the players, but why would you when this series—or universe—is so unique?
I love Mercy and Anna, the two main characters of the Mercyverse. Both are so distinct and unforgettable. Patricia Briggs has a knack for creating compelling characters, and this is where Asil comes into play.
Asil, better known as the Moor, is an ancient werewolf who is smart, gorgeous, and highly lethal. To the human eye, Asil appears young, but looks can be deceiving. If humans only knew that Asil’s wolf is always a moment away from a murderous rampage, they’d run for their lives.
During the Christmas season, Asil receives an email from an unknown sender signed “Your Concerned Friends.” They’ve arranged five blind dates for him. Though tempted to decline, Asil’s curiosity gets the better of him, and he decides to go along with it.
To say the least, none of the dates were what you’d call normal, but all were captivating. I loved all five short stories and wouldn’t mind seeing some of these characters appear in either series. More Asil and Ruby are always welcome!
Cliffhanger: No
5/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Ace via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
August 17, 2025
While the Mercy Thompson books are my favorite, I enjoy all of the books in this series and this was no exception. I think I had read one of the stories before but it had been a minute and it all felt new and I devoured it. Asil is “gifted” with a series of blind dates that end up being far more than he or his concerned friend bargained for. The stories were all great, but I particularly enjoyed the last one with the reveal of the concerned friend epilogue. Asil wasn’t my favorite character before (he was fine, but this world has harsh competition with characters), but he’s moved up a few slots. The only downside to getting an early arc of this one is that now I have even longer to wait for the next book in this universe.
October 19, 2025
Halloween Bingo 2025
Patricia Briggs doesn't like to let a good idea get away, so she writes short fiction about some of the secondary characters in the Mercy Thompson universe. This collection features one of my favourite werewolves, Asil Moreno, otherwise known as Hussan the Moor. Asil played a pivotal role in the very first Alpha & Omega novel, Cry Wolf. While Anna and Charles were the main focus of the story, Asil was chewing the scenery right along side them.
I have learned a fair bit about Asil as the series has progressed. First, he is OLD. Like “hanging out in Europe when Charlemagne was crowned” old. In the third date of this collection, he informs Tami that he is descended from African Berbers and people of the Arabian Peninsula. His skin, a lovely teak colour, reflects this heritage. I knew from Cry Wolf that Asil has a high opinion of himself. He is powerful and he knows it. He is beautiful and he dresses to enhance it. This book reveals what a clothes horse he is. The guy must have an enormous closet.
But the most important thing to know about Asil is that he and his mate Sarai, took in a witch child during Inquisition times and attempted to raise her. She repaid their kindness by torturing Sarai to death and magically ensnaring Sarai's wolf as a guardian. (This is dealt with in Cry Wolf.) Between Asil's age and this painful loss, he has become a highly volatile werewolf who has come to the Marrock's pack to ensure that there is someone powerful enough to put him down should he fully short circuit. Many consider him to be insane and he often agrees with them.
And still, someone has had the nerve to set Asil up on 5 dates from various dating apps. They have produced ground rules to determine the “success” of each date and to protect the innocent. But they also inform Asil that there is a betting pool on the outcomes. These people know how to prick his pride, engage his protective instincts, and inspire his desire to win this “game.”
Three of these dating stories have been previously published in anthologies. The second and fifth dates are brand new. (Now I know the circumstances of the lioness of the second date, hinted at in the story of the third date.) In the acknowledgments at book's end, I learned that we have Kevin J. Anderson to thank/blame for this anthology. (I am somewhat regretting the purchase of the three short story collections that I bought in order to read these stories.) Briggs has cleaned up the previously published works and written connective tissue to smooth the transitions and to give a satisfactory ending. I was surprised at the identity of Asil's Concerned Friend and this has whetted my appetite for the next Alpha & Omega book next year.
This year once again I have the Magical Realism square on my Halloween Bingo card. I couldn't find a suitable book that appealed, so I utilized my Glimmer Potion, lit some candles, and grabbed this brand new book. It is also my 18th book in the 2025 Reading Your Hoard Challenge.
Patricia Briggs doesn't like to let a good idea get away, so she writes short fiction about some of the secondary characters in the Mercy Thompson universe. This collection features one of my favourite werewolves, Asil Moreno, otherwise known as Hussan the Moor. Asil played a pivotal role in the very first Alpha & Omega novel, Cry Wolf. While Anna and Charles were the main focus of the story, Asil was chewing the scenery right along side them.
I have learned a fair bit about Asil as the series has progressed. First, he is OLD. Like “hanging out in Europe when Charlemagne was crowned” old. In the third date of this collection, he informs Tami that he is descended from African Berbers and people of the Arabian Peninsula. His skin, a lovely teak colour, reflects this heritage. I knew from Cry Wolf that Asil has a high opinion of himself. He is powerful and he knows it. He is beautiful and he dresses to enhance it. This book reveals what a clothes horse he is. The guy must have an enormous closet.
But the most important thing to know about Asil is that he and his mate Sarai, took in a witch child during Inquisition times and attempted to raise her. She repaid their kindness by torturing Sarai to death and magically ensnaring Sarai's wolf as a guardian. (This is dealt with in Cry Wolf.) Between Asil's age and this painful loss, he has become a highly volatile werewolf who has come to the Marrock's pack to ensure that there is someone powerful enough to put him down should he fully short circuit. Many consider him to be insane and he often agrees with them.
And still, someone has had the nerve to set Asil up on 5 dates from various dating apps. They have produced ground rules to determine the “success” of each date and to protect the innocent. But they also inform Asil that there is a betting pool on the outcomes. These people know how to prick his pride, engage his protective instincts, and inspire his desire to win this “game.”
Three of these dating stories have been previously published in anthologies. The second and fifth dates are brand new. (Now I know the circumstances of the lioness of the second date, hinted at in the story of the third date.) In the acknowledgments at book's end, I learned that we have Kevin J. Anderson to thank/blame for this anthology. (I am somewhat regretting the purchase of the three short story collections that I bought in order to read these stories.) Briggs has cleaned up the previously published works and written connective tissue to smooth the transitions and to give a satisfactory ending. I was surprised at the identity of Asil's Concerned Friend and this has whetted my appetite for the next Alpha & Omega book next year.
This year once again I have the Magical Realism square on my Halloween Bingo card. I couldn't find a suitable book that appealed, so I utilized my Glimmer Potion, lit some candles, and grabbed this brand new book. It is also my 18th book in the 2025 Reading Your Hoard Challenge.
October 30, 2025
I have loved Asil a.k.a. the Moor since I first read about just how broken the man/wolf really is. He is dangerous and has a tragic history. But...I love a broken character, especially one as pretty and dangerous as he reads.
It appears that Asil has some friends that are concerned about his well being. And I don't blame them the man hasn't been in a really good head space for years. That said who knew the best way to pull him out of his funk was to set him up on some blind dates, to get him out of the house and just let the chips fall where they may. Even is that ends up being in a pool of blood.
Asil agrees to go on six dates, arranged by his concerned friends to win the betting pool the pack has going against him. Ala it seems has taken this opportunity of Asil coming out of his seclusion to clean up some disturbances. So while they do not appear to be typical dates no one can say they are boring.
I had so much fun reading this and it was a great pallet cleanse after binging a different author. The dates were all spectacularly disastrous, there is hope for Asil in the form of a half fae woman **squee** and some loose threads are cleaned up.
It was just a great break and a ton of fun and made me want to reread all of the Alpha and Omega books again!!! This book just goes to show just because you are down doesn't mean you are out and sometimes the best things fall in your lap unexpectantly.
While some of these date/short stories had already been released I hadn't read any of them so it was all new and a fantastic find for me.
Narration:
Performance: ★★★★★
Character Separation: ★★★★★
Diction: ★★★★★
Pacing/Flow: ★★★★★
Sound Effects: none
Holter Gram's narration was phenomenal. I loved his portrayal of Asil and I think he got the accent so perfect it was incredibly sexy. I enjoyed every syllable that came out of his mouth. He captured the teasing fun of the Moor so well and made all of the other characters pop too.
It appears that Asil has some friends that are concerned about his well being. And I don't blame them the man hasn't been in a really good head space for years. That said who knew the best way to pull him out of his funk was to set him up on some blind dates, to get him out of the house and just let the chips fall where they may. Even is that ends up being in a pool of blood.
“*A successful date is one in which (a) neither party runs screaming into the night, (b) there are no dead bodies at the end of it, and (c) you attend longer than two hours—at least an hour and a half of which is spent with your date—”
Asil agrees to go on six dates, arranged by his concerned friends to win the betting pool the pack has going against him. Ala it seems has taken this opportunity of Asil coming out of his seclusion to clean up some disturbances. So while they do not appear to be typical dates no one can say they are boring.
“His experience in the past three dates indicated he did not need to force matters—disaster would come in its own time.”
I had so much fun reading this and it was a great pallet cleanse after binging a different author. The dates were all spectacularly disastrous, there is hope for Asil in the form of a half fae woman **squee** and some loose threads are cleaned up.
It was just a great break and a ton of fun and made me want to reread all of the Alpha and Omega books again!!! This book just goes to show just because you are down doesn't mean you are out and sometimes the best things fall in your lap unexpectantly.
While some of these date/short stories had already been released I hadn't read any of them so it was all new and a fantastic find for me.
Narration:
Performance: ★★★★★
Character Separation: ★★★★★
Diction: ★★★★★
Pacing/Flow: ★★★★★
Sound Effects: none
Holter Gram's narration was phenomenal. I loved his portrayal of Asil and I think he got the accent so perfect it was incredibly sexy. I enjoyed every syllable that came out of his mouth. He captured the teasing fun of the Moor so well and made all of the other characters pop too.
December 3, 2025
Re-read by audiobook 11/30/25. So good!
Asil has been an integral part of the Alpha & Omega series and a favorite character from the beginning. So, I was thrilled to get what I thought was a collection of unrelated short stories with him as the main character. I was happily surprised to discover Blind Date with a Werewolf melded previous short stories with additional new ones to make a whole cohesive story with Asil at the center!
A little backstory: Asil, a powerful old wolf, with a sad history, originally came to Bran (head of the North American werewolves) when his control over his wolf was waning. He requested Bran end him before he lost it. However, Bran refused and instead put Asil to work sending him to take care of problems within individual packs, which gave him purpose again, but happiness? Maybe not.
Here in Blind Date with a Werewolf , an anonymous party has decided Asil shouldn’t be alone over the holidays and so has “gifted” him with five blind dates. Let the fun and spilling of blood begin! I loved every minute!
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my thoughts and opinions.
Asil has been an integral part of the Alpha & Omega series and a favorite character from the beginning. So, I was thrilled to get what I thought was a collection of unrelated short stories with him as the main character. I was happily surprised to discover Blind Date with a Werewolf melded previous short stories with additional new ones to make a whole cohesive story with Asil at the center!
A little backstory: Asil, a powerful old wolf, with a sad history, originally came to Bran (head of the North American werewolves) when his control over his wolf was waning. He requested Bran end him before he lost it. However, Bran refused and instead put Asil to work sending him to take care of problems within individual packs, which gave him purpose again, but happiness? Maybe not.
Here in Blind Date with a Werewolf , an anonymous party has decided Asil shouldn’t be alone over the holidays and so has “gifted” him with five blind dates. Let the fun and spilling of blood begin! I loved every minute!
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my thoughts and opinions.
September 18, 2025
Review to come but man the epilogue is worth it.
When some pranksters in the pack decide that Asil needs to go on some blind dates so he isn’t alone at Christmas he agrees to it since the people he as been set up with don’t realize that they haven’t been talking to him and he wants to find out just who his Concerned Friends are. Three of these dates were published in prior anthologies and rest is new for this book. By the end of the book, you know the identity of Asil’s friend and there are some happy endings tucked in there as well. A good enjoyable read.
Digital review copy provided by the publisher through Edelweiss
When some pranksters in the pack decide that Asil needs to go on some blind dates so he isn’t alone at Christmas he agrees to it since the people he as been set up with don’t realize that they haven’t been talking to him and he wants to find out just who his Concerned Friends are. Three of these dates were published in prior anthologies and rest is new for this book. By the end of the book, you know the identity of Asil’s friend and there are some happy endings tucked in there as well. A good enjoyable read.
Digital review copy provided by the publisher through Edelweiss
October 22, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley and Berkley for the pre-release copy of Blind Date with a Werewolf by Patricia Briggs. Below you'll find my honest opinion.
I'd read three of these stories before, as they were previously released, but two were brand new! We finally got to see the last two of Asil's blind dates, and boy were they DOOZIES.
I'm really happy that we got more Asil. He's a really intriguing character, and I always get excited to see him on the page. And even more so in this, as he actually finds some healing and hope.
I can't say much without giving spoilers, so I'll stop there. But if you're a fan of Patty's Mercyverse, than this book is a must for some much needed side-character development love.
I'm still waiting for a Tom and Moira book (so glad we have some screen time with them here), but I'd also love an entire novel on Ruby's story!
I'd read three of these stories before, as they were previously released, but two were brand new! We finally got to see the last two of Asil's blind dates, and boy were they DOOZIES.
I'm really happy that we got more Asil. He's a really intriguing character, and I always get excited to see him on the page. And even more so in this, as he actually finds some healing and hope.
I can't say much without giving spoilers, so I'll stop there. But if you're a fan of Patty's Mercyverse, than this book is a must for some much needed side-character development love.
I'm still waiting for a Tom and Moira book (so glad we have some screen time with them here), but I'd also love an entire novel on Ruby's story!
May 30, 2025
Thank you PRH, NetGalley, and Patricia Briggs for the opportunity to read this in ARC. I was happy to read the tales I have read before , and content to read more of the same. But this was so much more! Interweaving characters from the main story line, advancing events as a whole.Some HEA and some lovely new beginnings. Sigh. Chefs kiss.
October 21, 2025
Asil is a very dangerous and ancient werewolf who is broken. He struggles to control his wolf and has become a recluse in recent years. He receives an email from some anonymous friends who are worried about him. They inform him that they have set up five blind dates for him as a challenge. They even hint that some of them don’t think he can complete the challenge. Through online dating sites, they have arranged these five dates. To win the challenge, he must go on each date and complete some additional conditions successfully. Of course, Asil can’t turn down a challenge, and so it begins….
I had an absolute blast listening to this story narrated by Holter Graham, whose raspy voice was perfect for Asil. Through the Mercy Thompson and Alpha & Omega series, we’ve gotten to know Asil’s struggles and his skills at protecting the innocent, so it was delightful to see perhaps the softer sides of him and his wolf.
The dates proved to be humorous, dangerous and surprising as Asil found something unexpected and faced challenges. The “friends” responses to what occurs and how they set up the challenge had me giggling. I laughed at the dating profiles, and the dates themselves, were pure delight.
While I had read some of the previously published stories, how Briggs weaved all the stories together into one was brilliant and enhanced my enjoyment of the tale. Bravo!
Whether you are a fan like me or new to the world, A Blind Date with a Werewolf is the perfect listen or read for a windy fall Sunday. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
I had an absolute blast listening to this story narrated by Holter Graham, whose raspy voice was perfect for Asil. Through the Mercy Thompson and Alpha & Omega series, we’ve gotten to know Asil’s struggles and his skills at protecting the innocent, so it was delightful to see perhaps the softer sides of him and his wolf.
The dates proved to be humorous, dangerous and surprising as Asil found something unexpected and faced challenges. The “friends” responses to what occurs and how they set up the challenge had me giggling. I laughed at the dating profiles, and the dates themselves, were pure delight.
While I had read some of the previously published stories, how Briggs weaved all the stories together into one was brilliant and enhanced my enjoyment of the tale. Bravo!
Whether you are a fan like me or new to the world, A Blind Date with a Werewolf is the perfect listen or read for a windy fall Sunday. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
July 9, 2025
Advance copy from Berkeley Publishing Group via NetGalley
4.5 stars
An Asil short story collection--hooray! There are three previously published stories and two new ones in this collection, and I loved having all five of Asil's blind dates together in chronological order. I liked the continuity, especially the humor of how the first story ended and the second story started.
The second story, "Must Love Cats: Aftermath," was one of the two new ones in the collection. It felt more like half a story, but I can appreciate the creative choice she made, starting it where she did. It was great comedic timing for the transition from the first story, and I'm pretty sure I didn't need to see these particular villains in action anyway. It also provided important setup for the other new story, "Sheherazade," which I loved.
There's a line from the first episode of Veronica Mars, when her new friend Wallace sees through her tough exterior to the person who's willing to go to great lengths to help people (to be fair, she's also willing to go to great lengths for revenge, but that's another discussion). He says, "Veronica Mars, you're a marshmallow." And I think we could say the same of Asil. Briggs has established him in the series as this ticking time bomb about to go on a killing spree at any moment, and she continues that characterization in these stories. But, when confronted with innocents in danger, or people exhibiting admirable bravery, our dear, beautiful Asil is in fact, a marshmallow. And I love him for it.
I said in a previous review when I read the first story that introduced Ruby, "Dating Terrors," originally published in 2022, that Asil fans were going to lose their minds. That goes for "Sheherazade" as well. Ruby is a fantastic new character to the series, as well as Asil's wolf, who started talking to him in "Dating Terrors" after centuries of just being a rage-filled internal presence. I hope to see much more of both characters in the main Alpha and Omega series or in future stories.
4.5 stars
An Asil short story collection--hooray! There are three previously published stories and two new ones in this collection, and I loved having all five of Asil's blind dates together in chronological order. I liked the continuity, especially the humor of how the first story ended and the second story started.
The second story, "Must Love Cats: Aftermath," was one of the two new ones in the collection. It felt more like half a story, but I can appreciate the creative choice she made, starting it where she did. It was great comedic timing for the transition from the first story, and I'm pretty sure I didn't need to see these particular villains in action anyway. It also provided important setup for the other new story, "Sheherazade," which I loved.
There's a line from the first episode of Veronica Mars, when her new friend Wallace sees through her tough exterior to the person who's willing to go to great lengths to help people (to be fair, she's also willing to go to great lengths for revenge, but that's another discussion). He says, "Veronica Mars, you're a marshmallow." And I think we could say the same of Asil. Briggs has established him in the series as this ticking time bomb about to go on a killing spree at any moment, and she continues that characterization in these stories. But, when confronted with innocents in danger, or people exhibiting admirable bravery, our dear, beautiful Asil is in fact, a marshmallow. And I love him for it.
I said in a previous review when I read the first story that introduced Ruby, "Dating Terrors," originally published in 2022, that Asil fans were going to lose their minds. That goes for "Sheherazade" as well. Ruby is a fantastic new character to the series, as well as Asil's wolf, who started talking to him in "Dating Terrors" after centuries of just being a rage-filled internal presence. I hope to see much more of both characters in the main Alpha and Omega series or in future stories.
October 2, 2025
This one was just okay for me. I’m a big fan of the Alpha & Omega series, and especially her Mercy Thompson series. Both series are loosely connected, which is how we get Asil, the main character of this novel.
I liked the concept of the five dates, but I didn’t really connect with the overall storyline or the individual “date” short stories. The romance was minimal, and I would have loved a full-length book about Asil falling in love—he’s such an interesting character.
Either way, I’m looking forward to the next Alpha & Omega or Mercy Thompson book!
___________________________________
Thank you to the publisher for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are entirely my own.
I liked the concept of the five dates, but I didn’t really connect with the overall storyline or the individual “date” short stories. The romance was minimal, and I would have loved a full-length book about Asil falling in love—he’s such an interesting character.
Either way, I’m looking forward to the next Alpha & Omega or Mercy Thompson book!
___________________________________
Thank you to the publisher for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are entirely my own.
October 26, 2025
Outstanding short story collection filled with high-octane action and offering the promising start of a romance
Each of these five short stories stars Asil, "the Moor," a powerful, ancient werewolf who lives in Bran's pack in Aspen Creek, Montana. The interlinking premise of these stories is this:
An anonymous group of werewolves from Asil's pack challenges him, via email, to go on five blind dates that they will set up for him. Mainly because he's bored, and this sounds like it might be interesting, Asil accepts the challenge. In order to win the challenge, all five dates must be successful, as defined by the following parameters:
1. Neither party runs screaming into the night.
2. There are no dead bodies at the end of it.
3. It lasts longer than 2 hours, and at least 1.5 hours of that time is spent with his date.
This collection includes all five of Asil's dates. Three of the short stories were previously published. They include:
"Unappreciated Gifts" (from A Fantastic Holiday Season, 2014)
"Asil and the Not-Date" (from Fantastic Hope, 2020)
"Dating Terrors" (from Heroic Hearts, 2022)
These three, along with two brand-new stories, are included in this October, 2025 release, "Blind Date with a Werewolf." These are the additional stories:
"Must Love Cats," which in this collection is listed as his second date.
"Scheherazade," which is his fifth date.
I am a massive fan of Patricia Briggs and have read everything she's ever written. All of the books in the Mercy Thompson world I have read multiple times. Asil is a beloved continuing character, and I have eagerly devoured anything and everything that PB has written about him. This series of stories is absolutely fabulous, each and every one of them. What I am most intrigued by is that PB has offered him the possibility of a fascinating romantic relationship. It is so wonderful, in fact, I dearly hope that she creates a spin-off series for him, as she did for Charles and Anna after she wrote the superb introductory short story about them called "Alpha and Omega."
I obtained this book in both ebook and audiobook formats. The audiobook is narrated by the enormously talented Holter Graham, who has narrated all of the Alpha and Omega books by Briggs.
By the way, an additional Asil short story from 2014, which is not related to the blind-date trope, is included in the "Shifting Shadows" collection. Its title is "Roses in Winter." It features Asil interacting with Kara Beckworth, a 13-year-old female werewolf who was changed at the age of 10 and survived against all odds.
Each of these five short stories stars Asil, "the Moor," a powerful, ancient werewolf who lives in Bran's pack in Aspen Creek, Montana. The interlinking premise of these stories is this:
An anonymous group of werewolves from Asil's pack challenges him, via email, to go on five blind dates that they will set up for him. Mainly because he's bored, and this sounds like it might be interesting, Asil accepts the challenge. In order to win the challenge, all five dates must be successful, as defined by the following parameters:
1. Neither party runs screaming into the night.
2. There are no dead bodies at the end of it.
3. It lasts longer than 2 hours, and at least 1.5 hours of that time is spent with his date.
This collection includes all five of Asil's dates. Three of the short stories were previously published. They include:
"Unappreciated Gifts" (from A Fantastic Holiday Season, 2014)
"Asil and the Not-Date" (from Fantastic Hope, 2020)
"Dating Terrors" (from Heroic Hearts, 2022)
These three, along with two brand-new stories, are included in this October, 2025 release, "Blind Date with a Werewolf." These are the additional stories:
"Must Love Cats," which in this collection is listed as his second date.
"Scheherazade," which is his fifth date.
I am a massive fan of Patricia Briggs and have read everything she's ever written. All of the books in the Mercy Thompson world I have read multiple times. Asil is a beloved continuing character, and I have eagerly devoured anything and everything that PB has written about him. This series of stories is absolutely fabulous, each and every one of them. What I am most intrigued by is that PB has offered him the possibility of a fascinating romantic relationship. It is so wonderful, in fact, I dearly hope that she creates a spin-off series for him, as she did for Charles and Anna after she wrote the superb introductory short story about them called "Alpha and Omega."
I obtained this book in both ebook and audiobook formats. The audiobook is narrated by the enormously talented Holter Graham, who has narrated all of the Alpha and Omega books by Briggs.
By the way, an additional Asil short story from 2014, which is not related to the blind-date trope, is included in the "Shifting Shadows" collection. Its title is "Roses in Winter." It features Asil interacting with Kara Beckworth, a 13-year-old female werewolf who was changed at the age of 10 and survived against all odds.
October 23, 2025
2.75⭐ (rounded up to 3)
First off, I think it’s a real oversight not to clearly mention that this book is essentially a sequel—or at least a continuation—of a character who has already appeared in previous series. It doesn’t make the book unreadable, and you’re not completely thrown into the deep end without context. Still, I think it would’ve been a lot more enjoyable if I’d read some of those earlier stories first.
That said, my rating isn’t based on that. My main issue is that the book simply doesn’t deliver on its premise. I liked the first story quite a bit. Later, I found out the book actually contains five short stories—three previously published and two new ones—tied together by an overarching plotline. The setup, where a “worried friend” sends Asil on a blind date that might have more to it than meets the eye, sounded really promising. But it never really drew me in...
They were all interesting in theory, I genuinely liked date 1, but nothing truly connected me to them or to the story overall. By the time I reached the fifth story, I was just waiting for the epilogue, and honestly, I found that quite boring.
I do think Asil is a great character. There were a few funny moments, but those little moments aren’t enough to make the story compelling as a whole.
If you’ve read the previous series and already know Asil, this book might work better because you’d have that existing emotional connection. But as a standalone, with no prior familiarity, these five stories just don’t feel strong enough to stand on their own.
First off, I think it’s a real oversight not to clearly mention that this book is essentially a sequel—or at least a continuation—of a character who has already appeared in previous series. It doesn’t make the book unreadable, and you’re not completely thrown into the deep end without context. Still, I think it would’ve been a lot more enjoyable if I’d read some of those earlier stories first.
That said, my rating isn’t based on that. My main issue is that the book simply doesn’t deliver on its premise. I liked the first story quite a bit. Later, I found out the book actually contains five short stories—three previously published and two new ones—tied together by an overarching plotline. The setup, where a “worried friend” sends Asil on a blind date that might have more to it than meets the eye, sounded really promising. But it never really drew me in...
They were all interesting in theory, I genuinely liked date 1, but nothing truly connected me to them or to the story overall. By the time I reached the fifth story, I was just waiting for the epilogue, and honestly, I found that quite boring.
I do think Asil is a great character. There were a few funny moments, but those little moments aren’t enough to make the story compelling as a whole.
If you’ve read the previous series and already know Asil, this book might work better because you’d have that existing emotional connection. But as a standalone, with no prior familiarity, these five stories just don’t feel strong enough to stand on their own.
October 29, 2025
Can Asil find happiness?
In the Mercyverse werewolves do not age. If not killed, a werewolf can live for centuries. They are not immortal in the strict sense -- a werewolf can be killed. In fact, most are killed within their first century. Being a werewolf is dangerous. Only dangerous werewolves survive for long.
Asil Moreno is an important character in Patricia Briggs's Alpha & Omega series. Asil was born shortly before the Battle of Tours (C.E. 732), making him close to 1300 years old. He is, in fact, a legendarily dangerous werewolf, known as "The Moor."
We met Asil in previous Alpha & Omega stories because he joined Bran Cornick's pack. He came to the USA from Europe because, after losing his mate, he had lost his will to live. In fact, almost the only thing he now takes joy in is killing. Despite the impression you might have received, Asil is in fact a thinker and a gentle person who wants to Do The Right Thing. He came to Aspen Creek to ask Bran to kill him. Bran kind of agreed -- that is, he agreed that, if Asil could not be fixed, Bran would end him. That has not yet become necessary, mostly because Anna (the "Omega" of Alpha & Omega) was able to help him.
Asil has a very high opinion of himself. It is not precisely vanity, because this opinion is justified. He is not just a dangerous fighter, he is also beautiful. In fact, the frequency of the adjective "beautiful," a word usually reserved for women in American vernacular, is striking. Asil thinks of himself as beautiful, and that is the first word that springs to the minds of the people who meet him for the first time in these stories. Asil is not just naturally beautiful in body and face. He cares about his appearance and dress. In fact, he flirts with (and for me, in particular, crosses) the boundary into foppishness.
Blind Date with a Werewolf begins when Asil receives an email from a "Concerned Friend" challenging him to go on five blind dates, arranged for him by Concerned Friend. To win the challenge, Asil must fulfill certain requirements
As you might expect, these dates all involve not just baseline humans, but also werewolves, vampires, and fay. And they turn dangerous. There are five chapters, each about one of Asil's dates, and a epilog.
I thoroughly enjoyed this. Briggs is my favorite urban fantasy author. The dates are good stories in themselves, and they advance the narrative of both the Alpha & Omega series and the Mercy Thompson series.
Blog review.
In the Mercyverse werewolves do not age. If not killed, a werewolf can live for centuries. They are not immortal in the strict sense -- a werewolf can be killed. In fact, most are killed within their first century. Being a werewolf is dangerous. Only dangerous werewolves survive for long.
Asil Moreno is an important character in Patricia Briggs's Alpha & Omega series. Asil was born shortly before the Battle of Tours (C.E. 732), making him close to 1300 years old. He is, in fact, a legendarily dangerous werewolf, known as "The Moor."
We met Asil in previous Alpha & Omega stories because he joined Bran Cornick's pack. He came to the USA from Europe because, after losing his mate, he had lost his will to live. In fact, almost the only thing he now takes joy in is killing. Despite the impression you might have received, Asil is in fact a thinker and a gentle person who wants to Do The Right Thing. He came to Aspen Creek to ask Bran to kill him. Bran kind of agreed -- that is, he agreed that, if Asil could not be fixed, Bran would end him. That has not yet become necessary, mostly because Anna (the "Omega" of Alpha & Omega) was able to help him.
Asil has a very high opinion of himself. It is not precisely vanity, because this opinion is justified. He is not just a dangerous fighter, he is also beautiful. In fact, the frequency of the adjective "beautiful," a word usually reserved for women in American vernacular, is striking. Asil thinks of himself as beautiful, and that is the first word that springs to the minds of the people who meet him for the first time in these stories. Asil is not just naturally beautiful in body and face. He cares about his appearance and dress. In fact, he flirts with (and for me, in particular, crosses) the boundary into foppishness.
Blind Date with a Werewolf begins when Asil receives an email from a "Concerned Friend" challenging him to go on five blind dates, arranged for him by Concerned Friend. To win the challenge, Asil must fulfill certain requirements
A successful date is one in which (a) neither party runs screaming into the night, (b) there are no dead bodies at the end of it, and (c) you attend longer than two hours—at least an hour and a half of which is spent with your date—which is an hour and fifty minutes longer than we expect any date of yours to last.Concerned Friend obviously knows that Asil finds it difficult to turn down a challenge. So, YEAH, It's On!
As you might expect, these dates all involve not just baseline humans, but also werewolves, vampires, and fay. And they turn dangerous. There are five chapters, each about one of Asil's dates, and a epilog.
I thoroughly enjoyed this. Briggs is my favorite urban fantasy author. The dates are good stories in themselves, and they advance the narrative of both the Alpha & Omega series and the Mercy Thompson series.
Blog review.
November 6, 2025
4 ⭐️'s
This book is all about Asil. It's broken up into blind dates that Asil is set up on by some concerned friends. He's enjoying the adventures so he doesn't complain...much.
I really enjoyed him much more than I thought although I was over him going on about how good looking he is pretty much from the start.
I did feel like the story was choppy because of the way it was written and some things were rushed through. I wish there was more time with him and Ruby. I really liked her.
I was surprised about the "concerned friend" but loved the epilogue. Again, it could've been longer.
This book is all about Asil. It's broken up into blind dates that Asil is set up on by some concerned friends. He's enjoying the adventures so he doesn't complain...much.
I really enjoyed him much more than I thought although I was over him going on about how good looking he is pretty much from the start.
I did feel like the story was choppy because of the way it was written and some things were rushed through. I wish there was more time with him and Ruby. I really liked her.
I was surprised about the "concerned friend" but loved the epilogue. Again, it could've been longer.
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November 9, 2025
A sweet side quest of a book! I didn't quite know what to expect from this, but it was such an entertaining read. I loved Asil's perspective and his relationship with his wolf and how that was explored here. The overall date-focused structure was super fun as well and worked to show different sides of Asil and his abilities. The ending was particularly satisfying in how it revealed who was behind it all and gave Asil some love as well <3
September 15, 2025
I picked this up because I was intrigued by the title and cover. Unfortunately, I didn't realize this was part of/a spin off from a long standing series. It's made up of 5 stories and an epilogue and each chapter/story is pretty self contained except for the last 2. I'm sure I would have enjoyed this more if I had read the author's previous books in this series, but without that background information, I did struggle reading this. For a book that overall had a lot of action, there was also a surprising amount of telling and action off page. This contributed to my overall confusion and honestly, I was pretty lost for the first 3 stories since there was no recap of the world or magic system. Things clicked better in the 4th and 5th story though.
I both read and listened to the audiobook of Blind Date with a Werewolf and the narration by Holter Graham was great, except when he voiced Asil. The accent he used made it difficult to understand what he was saying and I found myself referring back to the ebook over and over again for clarification. I ended up reading the last 2 chapters with my eyes and since those were the ones I enjoyed the most, I'm thinking this would have probably worked better for me without the audiobook.
Audiobook Review
Overall 3 stars
Performance 3 stars
Story 3 stars
I feel bad not rating this higher, but as a standalone it didn't really work. I'm sure Patricia Briggs fans will love this though, so it's definitely a case of it's me, not you.
*I voluntarily read and listened to a review copy of this book*
I both read and listened to the audiobook of Blind Date with a Werewolf and the narration by Holter Graham was great, except when he voiced Asil. The accent he used made it difficult to understand what he was saying and I found myself referring back to the ebook over and over again for clarification. I ended up reading the last 2 chapters with my eyes and since those were the ones I enjoyed the most, I'm thinking this would have probably worked better for me without the audiobook.
Audiobook Review
Overall 3 stars
Performance 3 stars
Story 3 stars
I feel bad not rating this higher, but as a standalone it didn't really work. I'm sure Patricia Briggs fans will love this though, so it's definitely a case of it's me, not you.
*I voluntarily read and listened to a review copy of this book*
October 23, 2025
YES! YES! YES!
I knew a collection of stories about Asil going out on five blind dates would be delicious, and I was not wrong. The ending of the last story, and the epilogue had me happy clapping and wanting to kick my feet!
I cannot wait for the next Alpha & Omega book to see fresh peeks of Asil...and some other characters we know and love.
I knew a collection of stories about Asil going out on five blind dates would be delicious, and I was not wrong. The ending of the last story, and the epilogue had me happy clapping and wanting to kick my feet!
I cannot wait for the next Alpha & Omega book to see fresh peeks of Asil...and some other characters we know and love.
September 16, 2025
Headlines:
Bloodthirsty dating
Hilarious set ups
Vamps v Weres
For a book about blind dates this sure was more about killing (and I'm not sorry about it). Asil has always deserved his own book and if you know this wolf, you'll know he's very melancholy without his deceased mate. Some 'concerned friends' wanted to see him get out there and so set him up on five blind dates.
It became clear part way through that there was too much coincidence in what was happening and that storyline really pulled my interest thread. Date one, four and five were my favourites. Date two, frankly was confusing. Where Asil ended up has only whetted my appetite and Briggs surely can't leave us there. We need to know the 'what next' please!
There was a lovely little Easter Egg about a certain character right at the end with information I hadn't previously known. I love this world with my whole heart and could read it endlessly.
Enjoy this seasonal-feeling offering of a standalone off shoot to the Alpha & Omega/Mercy Thompson series. You really do need insight to the world to read this, however.
Thank you to Orbit Books for the eARC.
Bloodthirsty dating
Hilarious set ups
Vamps v Weres
For a book about blind dates this sure was more about killing (and I'm not sorry about it). Asil has always deserved his own book and if you know this wolf, you'll know he's very melancholy without his deceased mate. Some 'concerned friends' wanted to see him get out there and so set him up on five blind dates.
It became clear part way through that there was too much coincidence in what was happening and that storyline really pulled my interest thread. Date one, four and five were my favourites. Date two, frankly was confusing. Where Asil ended up has only whetted my appetite and Briggs surely can't leave us there. We need to know the 'what next' please!
There was a lovely little Easter Egg about a certain character right at the end with information I hadn't previously known. I love this world with my whole heart and could read it endlessly.
Enjoy this seasonal-feeling offering of a standalone off shoot to the Alpha & Omega/Mercy Thompson series. You really do need insight to the world to read this, however.
Thank you to Orbit Books for the eARC.
November 9, 2025
This was great fun to read. Briggs features Asil, a very old, loner werewolf, who is tired of life. Asil has been challenged to go on 5 blind dates, all arranged by Concerned Friends, who are worried for him.
Of course nothing goes smoothly, but at least Asil is enjoying himself. And this reader enjoyed every page.
Of course nothing goes smoothly, but at least Asil is enjoying himself. And this reader enjoyed every page.
October 20, 2025
Asil, the once-alpha, deadly wolf, lives a solitary life waiting for the day his viscous wolf breaks free and Bran will have to put him down. Despite keeping his distance from his pack mates, he’s made friends, and some of these friends have decided to set up Asil on five blind dates. Whether is for their amusement, a genuine desire to see Asil happy, or greater forces at work, his “concerned friends” set Asil on a path that will change his life.
Blind Date with a Werewolf is both a collection of short stories and novellas while also one continuous and seamless story. Even though some of the chapters were initially written as separate stories, Briggs has worked them together to create a wonderful and complete tale. With each date, we witness Asil begin to transform, putting closure on his past perceived failures and healing from the loss of his mate so long ago.
I absolutely enjoyed every minute of Blind Date with a Werewolf. Asil has always been a favorite character and someone who deserved to step into the spotlight. He is dangerous, yet Briggs shows readers the kind and unselfish man buried deep within. Through the dates, we are able to witness all aspects of Asil including his generosity, strong moral compass, and deadly intent. None of the dates are the same, and each is shared in unique ways, emphasizing the multitude of Asil’s character.
Narration: The collection of stories is narrated by series veteran, Holter Graham. Most of the book is shared via Asil’s third person POV, although there are two parts where the female main character also shares her third person POV. Graham utilizes a deep, unaccented voice for the narrator, and alters dialogue based on gender, age, ethnicity, and species. Even though there isn’t a huge distinction between gender, Graham’s voices are solid and character appropriate, adding in a touch of emotion when needed.
Blind Date with a Werewolf is truly an unexpected gift, as I was expecting a set of novellas (similar to the Shifting Shadows anthology). Not only is the story is rich and complex, but it also progresses aspects of the great Mercy Universe.
My Ratings:
Story: A
Narration: A-
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by the publisher
Blind Date with a Werewolf is both a collection of short stories and novellas while also one continuous and seamless story. Even though some of the chapters were initially written as separate stories, Briggs has worked them together to create a wonderful and complete tale. With each date, we witness Asil begin to transform, putting closure on his past perceived failures and healing from the loss of his mate so long ago.
I absolutely enjoyed every minute of Blind Date with a Werewolf. Asil has always been a favorite character and someone who deserved to step into the spotlight. He is dangerous, yet Briggs shows readers the kind and unselfish man buried deep within. Through the dates, we are able to witness all aspects of Asil including his generosity, strong moral compass, and deadly intent. None of the dates are the same, and each is shared in unique ways, emphasizing the multitude of Asil’s character.
Narration: The collection of stories is narrated by series veteran, Holter Graham. Most of the book is shared via Asil’s third person POV, although there are two parts where the female main character also shares her third person POV. Graham utilizes a deep, unaccented voice for the narrator, and alters dialogue based on gender, age, ethnicity, and species. Even though there isn’t a huge distinction between gender, Graham’s voices are solid and character appropriate, adding in a touch of emotion when needed.
Blind Date with a Werewolf is truly an unexpected gift, as I was expecting a set of novellas (similar to the Shifting Shadows anthology). Not only is the story is rich and complex, but it also progresses aspects of the great Mercy Universe.
My Ratings:
Story: A
Narration: A-
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by the publisher
October 18, 2025
Within the Alpha & Omega series, a certain brooding, death-wishing werewolf holds a place of significance and is no mere side-character with no agency. So, it was with unmitigated pleasure I encountered recent anthologies featuring a series of Asil stories and to finally be wrapped into one compendium with those stories and two new ones brought together as a chain of blind date adventures for Asil.
Blind Date With a Werewolf pulls together stories published for previous anthologies (A Fantastic Holiday Season- “Unappreciated Gifts”, Fantasic Hope- “Asil and the Not-Date”, and Heroic Hearts- “Dating Terrors”) and two final installments.
Though I read the previous second and third dates, I went ahead and read Blind Date with a Werewolf cover to cover and got the sense of cohesiveness of a larger story within a series and world of stories rather than a handful of disjointed shorter pieces like I previously. Those were light and fun little adventures, but brought together like this and given those final revealing tales I found the urgency and connection- the ramifications this has on future books in both series within the Mercy Thompson world.
But, backing up to Blind Date With a Werewolf…
I had a blast as Asil took the challenge of his anonymous concerned friends and the Christmas present five mystery dates would be to an old werewolf experiencing ennui. This is Asil so he is arrogant, charming, and oh-so lethal. He is also incapable of having a regular date and there must be murder and mayhem and supernatural interference.
Aha, there is also a lovely smack on the snout of his wolf and himself that began in “Dating Terrors” and is blessedly expanded upon with the Date Four story. Another fun aha was learning who was behind Asil’s blind dates.
All in all, a fabulous entry to the Alpha and Omega series and the broader Mercy Thompson world which must definitely be read in order (Blind Date included) to get full appreciation of this abso-fab urban fantasy series.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley and a print copy via Berkley Romance to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at That's What I'm Talking About on 10.15.25.
Blind Date With a Werewolf pulls together stories published for previous anthologies (A Fantastic Holiday Season- “Unappreciated Gifts”, Fantasic Hope- “Asil and the Not-Date”, and Heroic Hearts- “Dating Terrors”) and two final installments.
Though I read the previous second and third dates, I went ahead and read Blind Date with a Werewolf cover to cover and got the sense of cohesiveness of a larger story within a series and world of stories rather than a handful of disjointed shorter pieces like I previously. Those were light and fun little adventures, but brought together like this and given those final revealing tales I found the urgency and connection- the ramifications this has on future books in both series within the Mercy Thompson world.
But, backing up to Blind Date With a Werewolf…
I had a blast as Asil took the challenge of his anonymous concerned friends and the Christmas present five mystery dates would be to an old werewolf experiencing ennui. This is Asil so he is arrogant, charming, and oh-so lethal. He is also incapable of having a regular date and there must be murder and mayhem and supernatural interference.
Aha, there is also a lovely smack on the snout of his wolf and himself that began in “Dating Terrors” and is blessedly expanded upon with the Date Four story. Another fun aha was learning who was behind Asil’s blind dates.
All in all, a fabulous entry to the Alpha and Omega series and the broader Mercy Thompson world which must definitely be read in order (Blind Date included) to get full appreciation of this abso-fab urban fantasy series.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley and a print copy via Berkley Romance to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at That's What I'm Talking About on 10.15.25.
July 13, 2025
Sometimes getting to read an advanced reader copy (like this one) is one of the greatest gifts I can receive as a reader. Thank you, NetGalley (and the author) for letting me read this. I feel warm and fuzzy and happy. And just slightly dissatisfied that the book is over and I don't get more time with Asil.
I can't tell you how much I loved this book. It's a book of five short stories and an epilogue. I've read books made up of short stories before and this blew any competition out of the water.
Asil is an old and broken werewolf. We've seen him in a lot of the Mercy Universe books but definitely he's been on the periphery. This time, we get to see him so close and personal. One of his friends has decided to set him up on five blind dates. Did they really believe that they could help Asil find love and meaning in his life? It's unclear.
What is clear is that Asil finds trouble wherever he goes and he will right injustice if it's the last thing he does.
He does get a little bit of romance along the way, and I REALLY wanted to spend more time with him and his person. The epilogue was beautiful, but I have a THIRST to see these two out there and thriving.
This book has a LOT of violence; however, I don't know how Patricia Briggs does it, but I had so much fun and enjoyed myself the whole time. I was giggling and kicking my heels.
I loved this. I adored Asil's stories. And I want to know so much more. It gave me hope that Patricia Briggs has more stories to tell. The last Mercy book I read (not the very last one, but the one before) was lackluster at best and I was feeling bummed. Now, I'm gonna need to go get that latest book and I'm back in!
Read this! It's so good.
I can't tell you how much I loved this book. It's a book of five short stories and an epilogue. I've read books made up of short stories before and this blew any competition out of the water.
Asil is an old and broken werewolf. We've seen him in a lot of the Mercy Universe books but definitely he's been on the periphery. This time, we get to see him so close and personal. One of his friends has decided to set him up on five blind dates. Did they really believe that they could help Asil find love and meaning in his life? It's unclear.
What is clear is that Asil finds trouble wherever he goes and he will right injustice if it's the last thing he does.
He does get a little bit of romance along the way, and I REALLY wanted to spend more time with him and his person. The epilogue was beautiful, but I have a THIRST to see these two out there and thriving.
This book has a LOT of violence; however, I don't know how Patricia Briggs does it, but I had so much fun and enjoyed myself the whole time. I was giggling and kicking my heels.
I loved this. I adored Asil's stories. And I want to know so much more. It gave me hope that Patricia Briggs has more stories to tell. The last Mercy book I read (not the very last one, but the one before) was lackluster at best and I was feeling bummed. Now, I'm gonna need to go get that latest book and I'm back in!
Read this! It's so good.
October 27, 2025
I received this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ARC provided by Berkley Publishing Group.
Dear Asil:
We are worried about you. A werewolf alone is a sad thing, especially at Christmastime. So we have a challenge for five dates in three weeks. We have taken the work out of it and connected you with five people from online dating sites. You should also know that we have informed the whole pack and instigated a betting pool. Have fun!
Sincerely,
Your Concerned Friends
I am still unsure if this is a continuation or part of the series but, it does not make the book unreadable, and you are not completely thrown into the deep end without context. You are not entirely thrown into the deep end without context — the author provides just enough background for new readers to follow along. However, my main issue lies in the fact that the book simply does not deliver on its premise. It had all the ingredients for a compelling and emotional read, yet it never fully came together in a satisfying way. I liked the first story, I think the most. Unfortunately, while the other stories that followed were interesting in theory, none of them truly connected me to the characters or to the overarching narrative. They felt more like snapshots of potential rather than fully developed arcs, leaving me detached from what was happening. I think it would of definitely benefited if you read the previous series and already know Asil, because you would have that existing emotional connection.
As a standalone, these short stories simply do not feel strong enough to stand on their own or to create that emotional investment. I am sure I would have enjoyed this collection much more if I had read the author’s previous works and had that existing foundation. But coming into it blind, I found myself struggling to care about the characters or their situations.
Dear Asil:
We are worried about you. A werewolf alone is a sad thing, especially at Christmastime. So we have a challenge for five dates in three weeks. We have taken the work out of it and connected you with five people from online dating sites. You should also know that we have informed the whole pack and instigated a betting pool. Have fun!
Sincerely,
Your Concerned Friends
I am still unsure if this is a continuation or part of the series but, it does not make the book unreadable, and you are not completely thrown into the deep end without context. You are not entirely thrown into the deep end without context — the author provides just enough background for new readers to follow along. However, my main issue lies in the fact that the book simply does not deliver on its premise. It had all the ingredients for a compelling and emotional read, yet it never fully came together in a satisfying way. I liked the first story, I think the most. Unfortunately, while the other stories that followed were interesting in theory, none of them truly connected me to the characters or to the overarching narrative. They felt more like snapshots of potential rather than fully developed arcs, leaving me detached from what was happening. I think it would of definitely benefited if you read the previous series and already know Asil, because you would have that existing emotional connection.
As a standalone, these short stories simply do not feel strong enough to stand on their own or to create that emotional investment. I am sure I would have enjoyed this collection much more if I had read the author’s previous works and had that existing foundation. But coming into it blind, I found myself struggling to care about the characters or their situations.
November 19, 2025
3.5/5 stars
I’m a big fan of the Mercy Thompson series. And I’ve read a bunch of the Alpha & Omega books.
This book features a bunch of short stories (some previously published) that take us on 5 blind dates for Asil (a powerful werewolf).
I don’t think that I’d previously read any of them. Even though they are separate stories they did work well together.
I think that the idea of “concerned friends” sending Asil on blind dates was fun. I enjoyed his first date with Kelly. The third date was interesting. The fourth with Ruby was probably my favorite. And I liked how the epilogue tied the stories together. However there were parts that I definitely found myself losing interest.
I’m a big fan of the Mercy Thompson series. And I’ve read a bunch of the Alpha & Omega books.
This book features a bunch of short stories (some previously published) that take us on 5 blind dates for Asil (a powerful werewolf).
I don’t think that I’d previously read any of them. Even though they are separate stories they did work well together.
I think that the idea of “concerned friends” sending Asil on blind dates was fun. I enjoyed his first date with Kelly. The third date was interesting. The fourth with Ruby was probably my favorite. And I liked how the epilogue tied the stories together. However there were parts that I definitely found myself losing interest.
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