Introducing a New Map

Tools can also be beautiful

It’s time to unveil the new map I recently commissioned! As many of you know, I’m writing a historical fiction trilogy, The Steppe Saga, and am preparing to publish the first book in the series, Of Wind and Wolves. Early in the writing process, I created a bare-bones map to accompany the story, but it wasn’t very visually appealing:

Ye olde boring mappe

Then, a few months ago, I also submitted Of Wind and Wolves to a beta reading service offered by The History Quill. (I’ll write separately about that sometime.) It was a worthwhile experience, and one of the commentary’s overarching themes was that we really dig your book, but it would be super helpful if there was a map so we knew where the hell all this stuff was!

I had not included my crappy old map (above) in the PDF/EPUB versions I sent to the beta readers, so their confusion was understandable, and I resolved to have a proper map made for the published version. I began researching options, and one cartographer stood out above the rest, making the style of map I most envisioned when I pictured opening my finished book. That was Daniel’s Maps.

Daniel Hasenbos mainly specializes in fantasy maps but also creates world maps and illustrations. I wanted a map with an old-world feel for Of Wind and Wolves, a novel set on the steppes of fifth century BCE Scythia (mainly in present-day Ukraine). I also took the opportunity to add and update some information on my old map—names and spellings of places, tribes, etc.—in light of my latest research and subtle changes I’d made in my story.

Daniel made a beautiful map that orients readers to the historical world of the story and perfectly complements the novel’s geographical setting. Working with him was a pleasure. He was professional and collaborative and took the time to really understand the project, ensuring all the details were correct. Most importantly, he created a map like the one I envisioned—only better! Daniel’s creation has surpassed my expectations and will be an invaluable asset to my forthcoming historical fiction series.

I finally have a map I’m eager to publish with the rest of my book! And I hope readers will enjoy it as well. If you need a distinctive, quality map for a project, I highly recommend Daniel’s Maps.

Map of ancient Scythia, as depicted in the world of The Steppe Saga (map created by Daniël Hasenbos of www.danielsmaps.com)

---