Shortly after I started working on my novel, I drew a sketch of the world that I was creating.
It was a bad one.
But it was enough to keep me oriented. So I didn’t get mixed up trying to remember which village was in the north and where the rivers flowed.
Then I learned that some fantasy authors laugh at the ideas of maps. Some even think they are silly. Or a distraction from the story that adds nothing to the reader’s enjoyment.
Well, I happen to like maps. I can stare at a map for hours, imaging the places they represent.
I love looking at them and following the hero’s journey through the world they live in. The maps make the story come alive. They also create the illusion that the world of the story actually exists.
Now that I’m getting closer to publishing, I decided to have a real artist take my sketch and make it into an actual map. Jeremy Bullard did an outstanding job (and if he laughed at my artwork, he didn’t let on).
So here’s the map of Tlefas. Within a few months, I’ll be ready to take you there, via the novel I’m calling (at least for now) Raising Fear.
PS My editor and I are brainstorming a new title. Who knew that would be such a long process! I’m up to number 112 on my list and we still haven’t decided. I’ll let you know when we finally figure it out.
What’s your opinion? Do you like maps in books, or not? Tell us about it in the comments!
Evelyn, sister of my heart! I adore maps and continually refer back to them when reading fantasy! Yours is absolutely stunning, and I eagerly await the publication of the novel so that I can get my greedy little hobbit hands on it.
Monica, It’s so good to know I’m not the only who loves maps! You all will be the first to know when I launch the novel.
Hi Evelyn! I haven’t tried drawing a map of my world yet. I say whatever helps you in the writing process and adds to your fun, go for it. Every writer is different and has different tools. Titles are hard for me too. Good luck with publishing! Cant wait to be able to buy it.
Lorraine, you’re so right. Maps do add to the fun. Which helps a lot on the days the writing isn’t going so well.
Yes, Evelyn, I love maps in fantasy fiction. I refer to them as the journey unfolds so I can truly feel like I am following along. I also like family trees in long historical sagas. I think visuals are very helpful.
Lori, I like the family trees, too. They really help keep all the characters straight.
Evelyn,
I love maps! I’ve often said that in my second life, I want to be a cartographer! I especially love maps included in novels. Your map of Telfas is beautiful. I would find it incredibly helpful while reading your novel Raising Fear. 🙂
Marla,
Thank you for your kind words about the map! And stayed tuned…my editor and I are re-naming Raising Fear. Will let you know when we make a decision.
I am a map-lover myself. Although I am no fan of fantasy—raised on non-fiction, I’m wedded to realistic fiction—I find myself getting lost in Google Earth more than I’d like to admit, zooming in on little details of the quotidian Street life appeals to the voyeur that must lurk inside me. Love th map your artist crafted.
I’m always happy to meet another map-lover! And thanks for your kind words about the map of Tlefas.