What's The Appeal?
Prowling through the dark of night, howling at
the moon, following primitive instincts that are more animal
than human - that is how we imagine werewolves. Whether
by curse or just plain misfortune, werewolves are human
beings that find themselves changing into wolves upon the
cycles of the moon. They must give in to their animalistic
nature and be governed by primal urges until all of their
human traits are gone.
So, how can a
creature that no longer lives by civilized standards be an
appealing and believable romantic hero or heroine? It's
precisely these base impulses that make werewolves work in
romance. Instead of being furry, monstrous creatures, they
are truly half-man and half-beast. The half that is an
animal is not dictated by evil or nefarious forces, but
rather the true nature of the animal they change into.
Wolves are particularly engaging mammals, because their
behavior patterns are similar to ours. We can identify with
them on an almost human level. Wolves are known for their
loyalty to their pack, for being wonderful parents to their
young and for guarding their territory, qualities which
humans regard highly.
Werewolf romance
authors capture the nature of wolves in the attitude of
their characters, even when they are in their human form.
These heroes are fiercely protective, dedicated to their
families and devoted to the women they love. The heroines
are also caring, strong and committed to their relationships
with the ones they love.
Werewolf characters
do tend to be alpha, meaning that they are usually very
dominant personalities, especially the heroes. But this
characteristic is also true to their wolf sides and works
well for an effective hero.
While all of the
qualities mentioned do make for admirable lead characters,
there is still a major problem - werewolves do get hairy
at least once a month! Fortunately, in the world of romance,
difficulties are also appealing. They are what spur the
story forward. The reader enjoys a conflict that seems
insurmountable - and certainly a mouth full of sharp,
pointy teeth and walking on all fours does seem quite the
predicament. But in all good romances, the authors create a
true love that can overcome even the most staggering
tribulations. And by the end of the book, we realize that
real love isn't just skin - or in this case,
fur - deep.
Readers' Thoughts On...
Alice Borchardt's
THE WOLF KING
"All of Borchardt's werewolf novels are
incredible, and this just may be the best of them all. It
has drama, emotion, suspense and a historical landscape so
perfectly depicted that you can almost smell and taste it.
This is epic fantasy, with larger-than-life characters
surviving overwhelming ordeals, leading to a life-or-death
moment of truth in the end that leaves the reader shattered
and fulfilled. Makes me reconsider getting a dog..."
Donna Boyd's THE PROMISE
"This book makes you want to be a werewolf.
Donna Boyd describes them as (almost) perfect, beautiful yet
dangerous creatures."
"Donna Boyd cannot
write stories quickly enough for me. She is an intriguing
and unique writer who can create incredible characters. She
quickly draws you into the story, and before you know it,
the story has ended."
Susan Krinard's SECRET OF THE WOLF
"Step into the dark mystical world of SECRET OF
THE WOLF and be carried away by the rich, colorful,
descriptive language, which transports you far into
California's picturesque Napa Valley. This book is an
exceptional human drama of the highest magnitude. Readers
will find themselves lured into this mesmerizing tale of
dark obsessions as Johanna and Quentin fight the dark forces
for the chance to live in peace and harmony."
Yes, werewolves are governed by the cycles of
the moon. They do howl and walk on four padded feet. But
they are not creatures to be feared or reviled. The romantic
werewolves' natures are also rooted in loyalty, strength and
the protection of those they love. They are noble creatures,
much like their wolf counterparts. But these wolves have the
added allure of also becoming the hero of our dreams.
-Kathy Love
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