I’m posting today about why I provide maps in the Star O’Brien books. It all started with a book by mystery writer Deborah Crombie.
Deborah Crombie’s Maps of London
I am a fan and reader of Deborah Crombie’s mystery series, featuring Duncan Kincaid and Gemma James. The first time I came across the series was in my public library in North Haledon, New Jersey. I picked the book from the shelf and read the back cover. When I opened the book, I found a black and white map inside the front and back covers. Wow! I checked the book out of the library and followed along on the map as I read the story. I’ve been a fan of Crombie’s stories ever since for the story and the maps. Set in England, most of Crombie’s books depict London.
Cara Black’s Maps of Paris
Cara Black is another mystery writer who uses maps in her series. Set in France, the maps depict locations in Paris.
Dell’s Mystery Mapbacks
Going further back in history (before my time), Dell published mystery stories with a map on the book’s back cover (Mapbacks).
My Map Goals
Having a map to follow along when I’m reading reminds me of teenage years. I loved the Kinks and spent many evenings in my room listening to their music while I read the album cover (again) along with the lyrics to the songs.
The maps in the Star O’Brien books are free to my newsletter subscribers. Set in Ireland, the locations are real. One of the things I enjoy most is to purchase trail and walking maps and book guides to all the wonderfully beautiful and sometimes remotes places in County Mayo (which I have visited). The reader can follow along and imagine the island’s beauty. https://martha-geaney.com/star-obrien/
Sign up for my newsletter and you will receive a map of Clare Island to go along with Death on Clare Island. For the release of Death at Ashford Castle on July 7th there will be a map of the walking trail through Cong Forest for newsletter sign ups.
I’m already working on book three in the series and the ideas for the map are exciting. I can’t wait to share with you when the time comes.
In the meanwhile, keep the luv going.
Martha