Dear Reader…
Welcome back to The Weekly!
How is it July already?? Time is truly flying by this year, isn’t it?
For those who are new around here: I try to communicate with my readers as much as I can, and this little digest is where I make sure we’re all on the same page about what’s going on in Talebones-land!
I’ve been a bit remiss lately in keeping everyone updated, so let’s play a little bit of catchup!
A Summer Round-Up
In case you missed it…
The Shell - in this soft science fiction tale (not related to Ferris Island), old man Burgess resurrects a force from his past and must make a decision that affects not just his own future, but that of the people around him. Two parts are already available and a third—possibly final?—is on the way!
TALESTACK NEWS is a twice-monthly bulletin of Substack fiction news where I collate as many announcements, projects, submissions opportunities, community endeavors, and generally cool things as I can gather. Check out the most recent issue here! (And if you’re a writer on the platform, check out the submission guidelines and email your news to talestack.editor@gmail.com by July 14th to be included in the next issue!)
The second season of our fan-favorite supernatural mystery serial, Freelance and Fishmaids, is currently underway! Our new season picks up a few months after the events of the previous season, and freelancer Caroline and her partner Captain Reyville have regained their groove chasing strange phenomena, aided by their friends and allies across the island. But when they are approached by a new acquaintance with an intriguing proposition, they will find their skills, resolve, and even their deepening relationship tested. On Ferris Island, the past and the present often go hand in hand.
Get started in the new season - Episode One: Albatross.
Or, if you’re already reading along, jump into the latest piece - Episode Four: As Long As You Follow.
ATTENTION: An Important Archive Update…
After many months of being free for all—something I’ve been so grateful to offer—the time has come for Freelance and Fishmaids - Season One to head behind the paywall! All twelve episodes will be archived on Friday, July 19th, so if you’ve been meaning to jump in…don’t delay! Grab it while it’s free! But never fear: Season Two will remain free to read all summer long.
You can join the Archive for $2.50/month or $30/year and get full access to ALL stories and resources, discounts on merch and any future physical works, behind-the-scenes peeks, polls, and more!
Thank you for reading!
As the one-year anniversary of Talebones is in the rearview mirror, I find myself feeling pretty reflective about the things I’ve done well and the things I’d like to improve on in Year Two. There were ideas and projects that didn’t pan out for various reasons, and some that succeeded beyond my expectations. It’s truly been a journey!
I’m always dreaming of new and better ways to tell my stories and enhance the experience around here. Sure, sometimes my hopes exceed my abilities (and resources) but hey…I like to play, and I love that you all can play along with me! If you ever have suggestions or things you’d like to see, never hesitate to ask. I may not always be able to grant your wishes right away, but I’m always happy to add to the ever-expanding wishlist!
Between the Ferris Island Founder’s Week festivities coming up in August (TBD, but you can read last year’s tale for free here) and the ongoing behind-the-scenes saga of finally bringing Ferris Island into print for the first time (!!), this summer carries a lot of hopes and excitement with it! Onward and upward!
As always, I am so humbled and grateful every day for your gracious attention in a busy world, your incredible comments, your shares, your theories, your discussions…there’s no audience I would rather write to, for, and with. Thank you for being here.
I hope this season is treating you well. All my love, and blessings!
Your grateful storyteller,
Love when this hits 🙏🏻 thanks!