Inspirations

Ralavia

  Ah, Ralavia. Of all the fake countries I have created I probably feel the closest to King Luca’s tiny European country named Ralavia because it is a unique combination of two countries I have visited and loved—Germany and France. 

    But mostly it’s Luxembourg when it comes to where it’s located. I’ve had readers want a visual representation of where Luca and Anika’s kingdom exists (fictionally, of course) and here it is. The real Luxembourg is considered one of Europe’s low countries and is closer culturally to Belgium and The Netherlands (also a ridiculously cool country I love to visit), but I particularly wanted Luca to be German. Ralavians are known for their pragmatism and practicality. Not so much for just telling a girl what’s about to happen. Harper and Reid are about to embark on the adventure of a lifetime, and I’m happy to say that some of it occurs in my tiny made-up country. 

    Yes, Ian, it is a real country. Luxembourg, that is. Not Ralavia, except in my mind. Long live King Luca and Queen Anika, and I hope you enjoy your trip to Ralavia in my new book, Built to Last. 

Related books:

My Royal Showmance