While quite out of date, there is Nishant's Blood Hunter guide that has some optimization advice.

To address your specific questions though, TWF is not required for the Lycan to apply the ability modifer to both attacks. To deal more than a single point of damage + STR unarmed when not transformed, there are a few options. Tavern Brawler or a Monk level are viable, or you can choose a race that has natural weapons. Lizardfolk, Tabaxi, Minotaur, and Tortles fit the bill.

While Monk would provide that nice Unarmored Defense, delaying your primary class features is always tough. Tavern Brawler could create some very interesting visuals if you activate your Crimson Rite on an improvised weapon (flaming dead goblin or instant frosty mug), but restricts you to vHuman or costs you the ASI at 4. Personally, selecting one of the other races could be the ideal choice, as you could play it up as the lycanthropy curse always being active to some degree, and the transformation akin to a Barbarian's Rage. Remember that there are many forms of lycanthropy - a Tabaxi Weretiger is not out of the realm of possibility.