Ted and Erika’s story became the plot of “Meet Me In Manhattan,” one of the first of a series of Reality-Based Romance™ novels which tell the true love stories of real people in a classic romance novel style. Some of the aspects of the reality romance novels are fictionalized for dramatic impact, but a vast majority of the characters, plot twists, and even the love scenes are absolutely true.

How would you respond if you were contacted to be the star of a reality romance novel? How would it feel to share some of the most intimate moments of your love life with the whole world? How does your real life change after you become a romance hero and heroine in print?

Here’s what Ted Skala and Erika Fredell (Skala) have to say about being the reality romance stars of “Meet Me In Manhattan”…

ERIKA:

I thought it was hilarious… but at the same time almost wasn’t surprised. Since Ted and I have been back together some amazing things have happened, which seemed almost impossible. I mean, what are the chances of us even getting back together? So having a book come from it is almost normal since it has all been such a whirlwind.

TED:

We were flattered but on the fence. It’s a reality “based” romance, so it gives the author some liberties to manipulate the story and/or characters, and that made me nervous. In retrospect, I’m really happy that we decided to do it.

When is the first time you realized you were “in love?”

ERIKA:

The first time was back in high school. I don’t know the exact moment but probably when I decided to change my college plans to stay with him that summer. Sixteen years later, the night we all went out June 19 2008… when we walked into White Horse Tavern and he put his hand on the small of my back to walk me in… that’s when I knew.

TED:

The day after we kissed for the first time. I was a caddy and halfway through my “loop” I still had a crazy grin on my face. I knew I was in love because I kept smelling my shirt and was getting little hints of her perfume.

What did you think about “true love” before you two met?

ERIKA:

I didn’t think I was old enough to know what love was.

TED:

I didn’t really think much about “true” love at a young age. I had no idea what love was at that point.

What do you think about “true love” now?

ERIKA:

I think you don’t know it, until it happens to you.

TED:

True love is real! When it is happening and you find that you are with “the one,” it is life changing. Imagine seeing a new color….. something completely new and fresh, but so familiar you cant believe you didn’t see it before… That is a hint of what you feel.

What is the biggest thing that is incompatible about the two of you?

ERIKA:

The definition of “late.”

TED:

Time off of work. She wants more of it and I have a hard time taking it.

What is the thing you’re most nervous for people to learn about you in the book?

ERKA:

OMG – my mother-in-law reading about our times in the Jeep Wagoneer.

TED:

I have nothing to hide.

How do you feel about the “steamy” parts of your story in
“Meet Me In Manhattan?

ERIKA:

I cant even read those parts.

TED:

I feel bad for my mom and her book reading club.

What is your favorite reality TV show?

ERIKA:

Entourage and all the Bachelor / Bachelorette / Bachelor Pad shows.

TED:

American Pickers.

What advice do you have for singles still looking for their true love?

ERIKA:

Be patient, and be kind to yourself. And most importantly be yourself and enjoy life because once it happens life moves pretty quick!

TED:

Be honest with yourself and what you want in life. Don’t confuse love for convenience. Love has a magical way of finding you when you are not looking and least expect it. If you live your life as true to yourself as possible, you are all set. Let fate handle the rest and you will be just fine!

What are YOUR questions about the real couple starring in the Reality-Based Romance™ “Meet Me In Manhattan” by Judith Arnold?

To ask Ted, Erika, or author Judith Arnold a question, visit the True Vows Facebook page.

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