No, you can’t visit Ashwood.
Northside Grill doesn’t really exist. And all those great beers from Mosquito Creek Brewery? I made those up.
I created Ashwood by combining the qualities of many small towns in Southwest Washington – tight communities that have had to adapt.
When visitors travel to the Northwest, they stay in Seattle, hike Mt. Rainier, or drive out to the coast. Many don’t even know about the arid desert in Washington state. The Cascade Range cuts the land into two chunks, creating a rainy half and a dry side. I try to give readers a glimpse of both in every book.
The towns nestled into our valleys have many of Ashwood’s features in common – family owned businesses, unbelievable access to nature, and the ability to adapt to change.
As the logging industry fades in our region, tourism tries to rise up and take its place. This transition isn’t always successful. I read recently, while doing research for the books, that Oregon has more ghost towns than any other state. (There has to be another series buried in that fact.)
If you’re from the Northwest, I hope Ashwood sparks a memory. But If you haven’t had time to visit the Evergreen State – and I hope you do – be sure to take a drive into the mountains and find a quiet trail. And when you get thirsty, stop for a beer at a local bar – maybe you’ll meet someone who seems a little familiar.
your comments