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Raised by Wolves #4
My Dream Date
I never thought I'd find him online . . .
. . . but the AOL gods have a sense of humor.
Months after first chatting, an IM popped up from a guy I barely remembered. We started chatting and couldn't stop. When we met for coffee, we stayed for hours, but was that a spark or just the java talking?
No longer a newborn gay, Michael faces the man who could steal his breath simply by walking into a room.
Can this new love finally be his last?
Will a dream date turn into a real-life dream?
You'll love this story because everyone hopes to live this dream one day.
Get it now!
. . . but the AOL gods have a sense of humor.
Months after first chatting, an IM popped up from a guy I barely remembered. We started chatting and couldn't stop. When we met for coffee, we stayed for hours, but was that a spark or just the java talking?
No longer a newborn gay, Michael faces the man who could steal his breath simply by walking into a room.
Can this new love finally be his last?
Will a dream date turn into a real-life dream?
You'll love this story because everyone hopes to live this dream one day.
Get it now!
- GenresM M RomanceAudiobook
220 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 14, 2022
28 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
About the author
Casey Morales
62 books415 followersCasey Morales is an LGBT storyteller and the author of multiple bestselling MM romance novels. Born in the Southern United States, Casey is an avid tennis player, aspiring chef, dog lover, and ravenous consumer of gummy bears.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 24, 2025
4.5 Stars. Audiobook. Different but wonderful. The journey of a young man questioning his desires and exploring the many options out there. Non-traditional romance, this is not a story of a boy finding The One right away, it’s the long sexy road towards that partner. 5 book series, following the same maybe-not-straight twenty something as he dates around and sleeps in lots of different places. There is romance, we see a new relationship bloom and wither in each book until he does find The One. There is also the sometimes-silly, sometimes-poignant coming of age shenanigans as we see many bed partners, ranging from a first crush, a casual hook-up, a no-name escapade, dating a single dad and being part of a couples fantasy. Lots of exploration and discovery on the road.
No actual wolves or shifters, lol! Contemporary, present day, nothing paranormal what so ever. I always thought that “raised by wolves” meant being raised wild/rough/uncivilized, but this author seems to mean it as being raised in a very strict religious family. Since I try not to read blurbs, I honestly thought this was going to be. A wolf shifter paranormal story. It’s not.
The narration grew on me, it became more and more perfect as we got to know the MC, single POV, one narrator doing multiple voices really well. By the end, I don’t think anyone could have done a better job, especially the quite introspective moments, with softened voice and sighs. Really great job by Jon Curtis.
No actual wolves or shifters, lol! Contemporary, present day, nothing paranormal what so ever. I always thought that “raised by wolves” meant being raised wild/rough/uncivilized, but this author seems to mean it as being raised in a very strict religious family. Since I try not to read blurbs, I honestly thought this was going to be. A wolf shifter paranormal story. It’s not.
The narration grew on me, it became more and more perfect as we got to know the MC, single POV, one narrator doing multiple voices really well. By the end, I don’t think anyone could have done a better job, especially the quite introspective moments, with softened voice and sighs. Really great job by Jon Curtis.
June 29, 2022
I just want to start by saying, mentally, my "Team Carter" shirt was firmly in place at the start of this book… and actually still through most of it. Especially when he was going even farther from him. I wanted to join the angel on his shoulder and tell him not to go. I felt like Michael seemed the happiest and most filled when he was with him. But at one point, he says that he feels even more for Ryan. At that point, I would say I didn't fully believe it. There was still something off. But before the book was over, I still love Carter, but I was happy for him with Ryan as well. He really was happy and Ryan is great for Michael. One issue that really glared at me though, it seemed there was a chapter out of place. Ryan leaves on a business trip for a week, then weeks have gone by and Michael leaves his job. Finally, Ryan is back and Michael has just been asked to follow a coworker and build a business together- he hadn't said yes yet. They were still waiting on more information that would come the next week. But other than that, the story was really good. You know, until the end when you learn that there will still be another book. Then you want to be happy that there's still more to read, you won't lose him yet, but you also just want him to be happy for good now. I finally loved Ryan for him and now I get the news that the journey isn't over and I have no idea what turn this is going to take.
Well… until next time Michael.
* I am leaving an honest and voluntary review after receiving this book as an ARC.
Well… until next time Michael.
* I am leaving an honest and voluntary review after receiving this book as an ARC.
July 1, 2022
(ARC Review)
I've been postponing this review because, omg, I've suffered reading certain parts of this book. In the end, I decided to write it because when a book makes you feel, be it happiness, sadness, or any other strong emotion, it deserves to be noticed.
My Dream Date recounts part of Michael's journey of self-discovery. We see a slightly more mature Michael, more sure of himself and what he likes, and more willing to broaden his horizons. Although inside, there is still that Michael raised by his religious family, and with his eternal naivety, which he seems not to lose despite the potholes that he encounters on his way.
New horizons, new city, new job. New love? Despite having seen him suffer for Carter and the children, and after a beautiful friendship that promised more but could not be (and this was the part that made me suffer the most. What a way to cry...), Michael meets in this new stage to who could be his "person".
I look forward to the next and last book of his in this series. I really like how the author, Casey Morales, tells the story. I find his style original and refreshing. And I hope to see more books written by him.
I received an advance review copy for free from Book Sirens and left this review voluntarily.
I've been postponing this review because, omg, I've suffered reading certain parts of this book. In the end, I decided to write it because when a book makes you feel, be it happiness, sadness, or any other strong emotion, it deserves to be noticed.
My Dream Date recounts part of Michael's journey of self-discovery. We see a slightly more mature Michael, more sure of himself and what he likes, and more willing to broaden his horizons. Although inside, there is still that Michael raised by his religious family, and with his eternal naivety, which he seems not to lose despite the potholes that he encounters on his way.
New horizons, new city, new job. New love? Despite having seen him suffer for Carter and the children, and after a beautiful friendship that promised more but could not be (and this was the part that made me suffer the most. What a way to cry...), Michael meets in this new stage to who could be his "person".
I look forward to the next and last book of his in this series. I really like how the author, Casey Morales, tells the story. I find his style original and refreshing. And I hope to see more books written by him.
I received an advance review copy for free from Book Sirens and left this review voluntarily.
July 30, 2025
Michael Reid has gotten a few liaisons / relationships under his belt but he feels he needs to spread his wings and leave his hometown of Nashville for Atlanta, GA. He’s a bit overawed by the bigger city, the ‘gay bubble’, and the flocks of beautiful men. While he misses Dwayne, he becomes firm friends with coworker Connie, and soon he begins a slow-burn relationship with Ryan, who seems as perfect as his muscular chest.
I’m still really enjoying this semi-biographical romance series a lot. Casey Morales has created a very sympathetic main character in Michael, who tries to be a very decent human despite some understandable mistakes. The tone of this series is gently fun and conversational and Michael periodically breaks the fourth wall to address us, which helps build a rapport with us. In this episode, Michael must reexamine his ‘preacher kid’ upbringing and try not to be too judgemental—it’s a very personal moment and it endeared him to me even more. There are some lovely romantic moments and some steamy ones in each of the episodes in this series and they’re all well-written and compelling. 🎧 Jon Curtis really has been excellent in this series, he has the perfect youthful voice for Michael and he injects playfulness and enthusiasm to every scene.
I’m still really enjoying this semi-biographical romance series a lot. Casey Morales has created a very sympathetic main character in Michael, who tries to be a very decent human despite some understandable mistakes. The tone of this series is gently fun and conversational and Michael periodically breaks the fourth wall to address us, which helps build a rapport with us. In this episode, Michael must reexamine his ‘preacher kid’ upbringing and try not to be too judgemental—it’s a very personal moment and it endeared him to me even more. There are some lovely romantic moments and some steamy ones in each of the episodes in this series and they’re all well-written and compelling. 🎧 Jon Curtis really has been excellent in this series, he has the perfect youthful voice for Michael and he injects playfulness and enthusiasm to every scene.
January 6, 2023
After breaking up with Donny, Michael decides a new start is the way to go, so he packs up his belongings and moves to Atlanta, without a job but with hopes for the best. He ends up in Gay Mecca, surrounded by very hot gay men, and after a bit, finds a job and meets new friends with the help of AOL and a couple other online meeting places. In this book, he meets Ryan in real life after chatting with him on AOL. The two become great friends and more, but something is not quite right. Will Ryan become the next love of his life?
I liked this book. It had a much different tone, maybe because he was growing into himself as well as growing more assured as a gay man in the 90's. HIs relationship with Ryan becomes the main focus in this book and I guessed what was wrong before the answer became clear. That truth just about broke my heart. But the fact that Michael was willing to make a go anyway kinda made me leary for the outcome of this relationship. Only time, and a sequel, will tell. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I liked this book. It had a much different tone, maybe because he was growing into himself as well as growing more assured as a gay man in the 90's. HIs relationship with Ryan becomes the main focus in this book and I guessed what was wrong before the answer became clear. That truth just about broke my heart. But the fact that Michael was willing to make a go anyway kinda made me leary for the outcome of this relationship. Only time, and a sequel, will tell. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 1, 2023
Once again, Michael goes through a lot while also discovering more about his new lifestyle. After hearing Donny’s hesitancy to pursue a sexual relationship with Michael, and ultimately Michael proving his hesitancy appropriate, Michael decides a fresh start is necessary.
Now, don’t take this the wrong way, but starting off your “fresh start” with old habits is a recipe for disaster. But, he does connect on an emotional level with Ryan, with the help of AOL of course. I really liked Ryan from the start, even though some of his actions were a little sketchy, but he comes clean with Michael and I respect him for his honesty.
The tone of this book was very different than the previous ones, mainly because Michael is maturing and finally becoming comfortable with himself. The age gap between Michael and Ryan may also have contributed, but the way in which Michael handles Ryan’s situation proves he has grown so much since we were first introduced. Cannot wait for the finale! Hoping for the best outcome for Michael, especially since having gone through so much.
Now, don’t take this the wrong way, but starting off your “fresh start” with old habits is a recipe for disaster. But, he does connect on an emotional level with Ryan, with the help of AOL of course. I really liked Ryan from the start, even though some of his actions were a little sketchy, but he comes clean with Michael and I respect him for his honesty.
The tone of this book was very different than the previous ones, mainly because Michael is maturing and finally becoming comfortable with himself. The age gap between Michael and Ryan may also have contributed, but the way in which Michael handles Ryan’s situation proves he has grown so much since we were first introduced. Cannot wait for the finale! Hoping for the best outcome for Michael, especially since having gone through so much.
July 22, 2022
My Dream Date, the fourth book in the Raised by Wolves series by Casey Morales was my favorite so far.
Michael is more mature than in the first two books and has been through several experiences including first love and heartbreak. Michael's journey in this book (and the last) was more emotional and pulled me into his life in more than a superficial way like the first two books did.
I really disliked Ryan for most of the book and am not sure I would have made the same decision that Michael made, but ended up wanting to give Ryan a chance once the book came to an end. It worries me that there is one more book and this was most likely not Michael's HEA.
One of my favorite parts of Michael's story has been his relationship with Dwayne and now Connie. Everyone needs friends like them!
I am looking forward to the conclusion of Michael's journey to happiness.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Michael is more mature than in the first two books and has been through several experiences including first love and heartbreak. Michael's journey in this book (and the last) was more emotional and pulled me into his life in more than a superficial way like the first two books did.
I really disliked Ryan for most of the book and am not sure I would have made the same decision that Michael made, but ended up wanting to give Ryan a chance once the book came to an end. It worries me that there is one more book and this was most likely not Michael's HEA.
One of my favorite parts of Michael's story has been his relationship with Dwayne and now Connie. Everyone needs friends like them!
I am looking forward to the conclusion of Michael's journey to happiness.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 24, 2022
I have truly enjoyed every book in this series, the author has really created something quite unique and special. This chapter in Michael’s story has the same unique voice and his narration is wonderfully funny once again. This story also delivers on creating real emotional impact as Michael is taking bigs steps in his life by moving, taking a new job and finding new friends. I LOVED the happy for now epilogue, not every relationship is meant to last forever but still are a necessary and beautiful part of Michael and his journey. Very much looking forward to Michael’s next chapter. This is a wonderfully funny, clever and charming series, I can wholeheartedly recommend. ❤️❤️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 28, 2022
This is the fourth in a series of books about Michael, a gay man finding love and himself in the recent past. This book finds him more mature and having more interesting relationships. There is more sadness, too, as things do not work out for various sad reasons. It is still funny, but not the hysteria of the first two books. He continues to find friends and strong allies, and in the end, a strong love, so things are okay for now. But this is not the last book, so we know more is to come. I love this sweet boy and want him to have an overwhelming happy ending. The writing is still quirky but so well done it is a pleasure to read.
I received an advance review copy for free and left this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free and left this review voluntarily.
June 20, 2022
An interesting story with an ending I wasn’t really sure about, HFN. Some interesting decisions made by the m/c. As a “true story “ lessons seemed inevitable, such as be trusting but look at clues, at least for me. The journey is interesting as Michael navigates his way through relationships, new jobs and just life in general. I found he was a bit shallow but, hopefully, life will help him grow into the person he’s meant to be.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 16, 2022
Emotional
This one was an emotional read. Author wasn't lying about there being hard truths. I wonder if his relationship with Donny had happened now if they would've stayed together. His relationship with Ryan was very sweet. Ryan broke my heart with his truths. I was very conflicted about what Michael should do but I fully supported his decision in the end. I'm anxious to know what happens in the next book. I want Michael to have his HEA not just a HFN.
This one was an emotional read. Author wasn't lying about there being hard truths. I wonder if his relationship with Donny had happened now if they would've stayed together. His relationship with Ryan was very sweet. Ryan broke my heart with his truths. I was very conflicted about what Michael should do but I fully supported his decision in the end. I'm anxious to know what happens in the next book. I want Michael to have his HEA not just a HFN.
July 9, 2022
Don’t let the title fool you, there’s sad and glad.
The humour continues in this voyage of self-discovery, but I was very disappointed by Donny’s story. Would it have been different if PrEP had been invented a decade earlier. Then Ryan sounds perfect, even with his heavy baggage, he is Michael’s ideal, but the epilogue ruins the dream, his happiness is cyclical. The last book had better deliver a HEA, just saying…
The humour continues in this voyage of self-discovery, but I was very disappointed by Donny’s story. Would it have been different if PrEP had been invented a decade earlier. Then Ryan sounds perfect, even with his heavy baggage, he is Michael’s ideal, but the epilogue ruins the dream, his happiness is cyclical. The last book had better deliver a HEA, just saying…
January 3, 2023
Each installment of this series gets better and better. I loved this book and just seeing Michael’s journey over the years has been so enjoyable. I kept waiting for Michael to reach back out to Carter and see if he was able to try again, but clearly that isn’t happening and by the end of this book I was ok with it. Ryan won me over .
June 22, 2025
I think Casey Morales is one of the best writers in MM romance, and this story bears that out. Every page is filled with witty, clever writing and the story absolutely captivated me, particularly knowing that it's true. This story tackled some challenging subjects (HIV, coming out in middle age) and did so with grace. Seeing mentions of both the Atlanta Olympics and San Francisco on page delighted me as well. I look forward to wrapping up the Raised by Wolves series with the final book!
July 30, 2025
Ten Stars for this series!
I have laughed, cried, doubted, celebrated and been enthralled about this "names will be changed to protect the guilty and the naive" stories. I love the characters. I love the smiles. I love the strength of true friendship shared. I want to get to the last book in this series. I will cry when I have read the last book in the series.
Casey Morales knows how to weave a,story. Thank you for this series.
I have laughed, cried, doubted, celebrated and been enthralled about this "names will be changed to protect the guilty and the naive" stories. I love the characters. I love the smiles. I love the strength of true friendship shared. I want to get to the last book in this series. I will cry when I have read the last book in the series.
Casey Morales knows how to weave a,story. Thank you for this series.
July 15, 2022
In this book we see a more mature Michael who is really coming into his own about being gay. He navigates his way through relationships, new jobs and just life in general. This was a well written story. Looking forward to the final book in this series. I received an ARC of this book for my honest review.
August 8, 2022
I Enjoy This Series
I have been enjoying following these stories of Michael's journey self-discovery. Each one has given a great description of whatever point he was in in his journey. This one shows Michael is really growing up and learning from his experiences.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I have been enjoying following these stories of Michael's journey self-discovery. Each one has given a great description of whatever point he was in in his journey. This one shows Michael is really growing up and learning from his experiences.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
September 11, 2024
As Casey said, he ends these books truthfully, not as true HEAs, but as close to his truth as he can. Love that he now has Connie to add to his close friend list. Dwayne is always the voice of reason, bringing Michael back to earth. Ryan was good for the time. At first it seemed there was going to be an HEA this time, til we got to the epilogue.
August 6, 2025
my dream date by Casey morales. When he found out the truth I would of ruined his life or something but what did he do? Just wallowed in self-pity and blamed himself. There was little to no character development in this book regardless of all the big things that happened to the MMC. this was my last favourite of the series so far
July 11, 2022
This book was a beautifully written continuation of Michaels story. I have liked all the books and this one is even better than the others, so much emotion. I am emotionally invested in Michael's life now and really want his HEA.
September 9, 2023
Michael & Ryan
The 4th installment of Michael’s story brings us to Ryan. It was a sweet story with lots of laughs, a big move, a big work change, a new bestie, a new love interest. For Ryan, tons of personal change. Off to see how this all ends for Michael.
The 4th installment of Michael’s story brings us to Ryan. It was a sweet story with lots of laughs, a big move, a big work change, a new bestie, a new love interest. For Ryan, tons of personal change. Off to see how this all ends for Michael.
September 14, 2025
love at Last, Maybe
Casey knows how to rope the reader in, kick the hell out of our emotions, just to…in this fun book. Morales tells how he found Ryan, the hot stud who swept him off his feet. But Ryan had a deep dark secret. Can you guest what it is?
Casey knows how to rope the reader in, kick the hell out of our emotions, just to…in this fun book. Morales tells how he found Ryan, the hot stud who swept him off his feet. But Ryan had a deep dark secret. Can you guest what it is?
August 10, 2022
A mores serious note
I still love Dwayne and now Connie. But Michael is learning some hard truths about life. I can only wonder where it takes him.
I still love Dwayne and now Connie. But Michael is learning some hard truths about life. I can only wonder where it takes him.
May 28, 2025
Felt quite bad for "Zoo Guy" in this book.
Onwards to the next!
Onwards to the next!
October 26, 2025
I don’t trust this Ryan. I miss Donny.
November 14, 2025
Another good book in the series. I recommend that you read in series sequence. Audio narration is a big plus.
August 24, 2024
I read the entire five book series. I enjoyed the banter between the author and the reader. It was easy to buy into the story.
The sex scenes were a bit much sometimes.
If you are looking for a fun MM romance this one if for you.
The sex scenes were a bit much sometimes.
If you are looking for a fun MM romance this one if for you.
November 8, 2025
Touching!
Absolutely exquisite, so many wonderful moments, the farewell scenes were truly sad, I don't think I got over yet, the story was so moving, a turmoil of emotions, from heartbreaking to laughter, Casey Morales did a amazing job with this book, congratulations!!!
Marvellous performance by Jon Curtis, impeccable, the acting was spectacular, fully committed, the reading was correct and clear, beautiful voice, the perfect match for the character! Great job!!!
5⭐️
Cæsar
Absolutely exquisite, so many wonderful moments, the farewell scenes were truly sad, I don't think I got over yet, the story was so moving, a turmoil of emotions, from heartbreaking to laughter, Casey Morales did a amazing job with this book, congratulations!!!
Marvellous performance by Jon Curtis, impeccable, the acting was spectacular, fully committed, the reading was correct and clear, beautiful voice, the perfect match for the character! Great job!!!
5⭐️
Cæsar
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews