In 2022, one of my interactive serialized fiction projects was set in a very special place called Reclamation Island.
What is interactive serialized fiction? Between installments, my subscribers are included in real-time, behind-the-scenes peeks (without spoilers!) at the stories I’m writing for them—and subscribers directly influence where the story goes next.
Let’s take a quick tour of Reclamation Island together!
To get to this remote island in the Pacific Northwest, you probably traveled by ferry or seaplane—and I bet you’re hungry now. Head over to The Turkey & Hambone, where Zane and Eli are cooking up a full range of pub-style food. Be careful as you walk in, though. The guys are renovating the pub’s massive stone fireplace. Wait until you hear what’s going on the wall above it.
Would you prefer a moment of peace and a sympathetic ear? Step inside The Sakura Blossom Tea Shop, where Gemma is listening to her favorite soothing tunes and Stef is sharing a new knitting pattern. (For now, would you please pretend you like the store-bought cookies Gemma offers you? Gemma’s in a bit of a crisis over how to provide fresh baked goods for the shop. If only that new girl Mattie would prove to be a little more reliable …)
Ah. I see you’d like to stay awhile, and I know just the place. Lillian’s family has been hosting guests in their bay-side rental cottages for generations. At check-in, you’ll get a cookie and a coupon to rent one of those kayaks just over there by the dock. Tonight you’ll fall asleep to the sound of waves lapping at the pebbly beach just outside your cottage door. Don’t mind that old duffer tinkering about the property. That’s Lillian’s husband, Henry, and a kinder man you’ll never meet.
While you’re here with us on Reclamation Island, be sure to listen for the sound of a ringing brass bell.
Islanders tug on the bell’s rope in Overlook Park when whales are in sight. Humpback whales, gray whales, minke whales and others call the waters around Reclamation Island home, and you’ll be able to see them from right here on shore. You might even catch sight of our beloved—and critically endangered—Southern Resident Orcas. Oh, I hope you do!
I’m glad you’re here, because Stories of Reclamation Island is about friendship. It’s about love and second chances, forgiveness and letting go. But mostly, it’s about hope.
I’m also glad you’re open to reading something new, because Stories of Reclamation Island is no longer available to new subscribers. But guess what? The current interactive serialized fiction project, The Wren Island Series, is happening now, and readers like you are already influencing what happens next.
It’s easy and fun to catch up. When you subscribe to receive my emails, you’ll receive a link to stories that have been published. Then, watch your inbox for behind-the-scenes updates and opportunities to influence what happens next!
You’re going to feel at home here in no time at all.
(Photo courtesy of Canva.)
