How to Date a Werewolf, by Classics author Jessica Eppley

So you’ve met the man of your dreams! He’s loyal, he’s affectionate, and he’s an animal lover…well, I guess you’re the real animal lover here, because your boyfriend happens to be a little more inclined towards his wild side. Your boyfriend is a werewolf.

Don’t go running for the door just yet. It is possible to have a healthy relationship with a werewolf without that nagging fear that he’s going to devour you face the first every time he goes in for a smooch. Impossible you say? Not if you follow my ten easy to follow guidelines.

Communication is Key

(We’re not just barking at the moon here)

As with any relationship, communication is crucial. The best way to manage your mangy mate’s temperamental nature is to not be afraid to express your feelings while acknowledging his. Are you peeved at his snippy attitude in the days prior to the full moon? Well, allow him to vent his frustrations with understanding and a nonjudgmental attitude. Tossing him a chew toy is also effective.

Encourage Good Hygiene

(And monthly flea baths)

No one likes a dirty dog! Pamper your man-beast with a surprise spa date together! Seaweed wrap and manicure for you. Haircut and anal gland expression for him. You’ll both be relaxed and smell a heck of a lot better.

Go Out to Eat

(Not recommended for vegetarians)

So he takes you to your favorite restaurant every Friday? It’s time for you to return the favor! A candle lit venison dinner in a secluded forest under a full moon is a great way to get the romance back…and also prevents him from dragging bloody carcasses back to your apartment. Hope you like your steak rare!

Be Social

(No butt-sniffing…unless you’re into that)

Everyone needs a little random consideration, and your beastly beau is no exception. A casual phone call to the office in the middle of the day can perk up even the droopiest ears. Ask him what he wants for dinner, how his day is going, and if he wants the ball. He wants the ball doesn’t he? YES HE DOES!

Mark your Territory

(Keep the b*tches back!)

Being a werewolf boosts his appeal to the opposite sex, so make sure those doe-eyed damsels know he’s your devotee! You could leave a few belongings at his apartment sure, but a little bottle full of your eh-hem…natural perfume stealthily dribbled into the decorative plants at the outdoor café will make your ownership of him known to rivals. Just make sure the wait staff doesn’t see you.

Share his Interests

(Which is killing…lots of killing)

So you’ve never been into hunting, okay. He loves you anyway, but there’s no harm in trying something new. After all, he does wear clothing and bathe for you every now and then. Give a little, get a little. Just don’t wear pumps in the forest, and be sure your laundry detergent has a strong stain remover.

Me Time

(Don’t be afraid of your own lone wolf)

He’s a pack animal, so it’s not natural for him to be away from you. Unfortunately that makes him a little clingy. Express your need to have some alone time by spending your full moon nights soaking in a bubble bath with a good book. Make sure your doors have strong locks, preferably silver ones.

Assert your Dominance

(Be a she-wolf!)

Put him on his back and show him whose boss! No need to elaborate here.

Acknowledge his Human Side

(You know, before he was awesome)

Your lupine lover has a soft side too, his human side. Find the time to discuss his life before he was turned. Ask him how it happened, visit his old haunts with him, exact revenge upon the wolf that bit him, and so on.

Release the Beast

(If you can’t tame him, join him!)

No woman should change just for a man, but if you’re so inclined towards the nocturnal lifestyle, allowing your boyfriend to bite you might be just the thing to kick this relationship into full blown pack-mode. You can have a lot of fun roaming the night side by side with your furry fling, just make sure he knows who’s alpha if you do.

The truly important things in any relationship, whether they’re paranormally prone or not, is trust, respect, and love. Keep these three things in mind when following the above advice. If you manage to get though the first few months without losing a body part, your wild animal should become your beloved pet in no time!

Jess Eppley is the author of the YA Fantasy series the Books of Siavon. The series includes The Ruby Child, The Tail of Murias and The Blood Moon. You can purchase her books at Classics Books or through her website at http://www.jessicaeppley.com/#.