Going on dates is the fun part of a budding relationship. But going on dates in the Library Jumpers’ Mystik world holds so much wonder and beauty, I thought it would be fun to give Arik some ideas on where to take Gia on their first date.

The Spanish haven of Santara with its lush, green grounds and beautiful flowers and sweet fruits is my first pick for Arik and Gia’s date. The castle was built into the side of a mountain. Arik and Gia could hike the long, winding trail that leads to the top of the mountain. At the crest, they could view all of Santara while enjoy a picnic of empanadas filled with meats and fruits. Afterward, they could fly down the mountain

Mantello Haven in Italy is where Gia’s great-grandfather is from. The castle is stately and the village is quaint with winding roads and many shops. There are festivals, wine making, and a unique bookstore. Arik and Gia could have fun eating bake goods while strolling through the many shops. They could sit at one of the outdoor cafes to eat and watch the many plays and puppet shows performed on the street.

Tearmann Haven in Ireland is like walking into a fairytale or like entering a large Hobbit village. The foliage is thick and green and the homes colorful and stout. The castle was built inside an enormous cavern with stalactites and stalagmites and veins of silver streaking its walls. Arik could lead Gia through the labyrinth of caverns that twist and turn around the castle. One such cavern has a hot spring pool with water the color of turquoise. After a romantic dip in the pool, they could have a picnic lunch under the colorful stalactites. When the wind whistles through them, it’s like a lullaby.

Veilig Haven in South Africa would be a magical place for Arik to Gia on a date. The castle is at the edge of a high cliff with the Aqualian Sea directly below it. Gia and Arik could sun on the beaches and eat delicious seafood. They could ride one of the crystal canoes in the shallows and view all the unusual creatures that live in this mystical sea.

Finally, Couve Haven in France is a romantic place for lovers. There are hundreds of beautiful gardens and a quaint village surrounding the salt-white castle. Arik and Gia could have a candlelight dinner under floral trellises in one of the gardens. With bellies full, they could visit the large artist community just outside the village and view the many treasurers created by Mystiks old and new. But they’d have to watch out. Because this is the home of Bastien Renard who is considered the “rock star” of the Mystik world with his good looks and confidence. And who is also Gia’s betrothed.

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Brenda Drake grew up the youngest of three children, an Air Force brat, and the continual new kid at school. Her fondest memories growing up is of her eccentric, Irish grandmother’s animated tales, which gave her a strong love for storytelling. So it was only fitting that she would choose to write stories with a bend toward the fantastical. When she’s not writing or hanging out with her family, she haunts libraries, bookstores, and coffee shops, or reads someplace quiet and not at all exotic (much to her disappointment).