The Romance Studio
featured author for the month of July
Sheila N. Eskew my latest Romance
ATLANTIS VORTEX
featured author for the month of July
Sheila N. Eskew my latest Romance
ATLANTIS VORTEX
As the High Lord of Atlantis, Xerxes' first responsibility is the security of his people and the anonymity of Atlantis. When an attractive,
young archaeologist discovers an ancient and unused entrance to the now submerged Atlantis, Xerxes solution is a simple one, he
decides to take her as his bride.
Order from Venus Press today!
After he saved her and her family's lives in a dive mishap several years previously he had kept watch over her from a distance. Both
fell in love that day. Xerxes knew at once, however because he had to protect Atlantis, he gave Jessica and her parents an alien drug
to cloud their memories. Jessica only remembered his aquamarine eyes and an arousing touch on her skin.
Jessica finding the entrance was Fate bringing their lives together again, but Xerxes soon found there are major difficulties in the way.
Jessica's independence one of them. Her own woman, she was not about to allow a man to control her life. If a spirited and beautiful,
if not so willing a wife wasn't enough, a traitor trying to take over his rule of Atlantis complicates matters. Now Xerxes must choose,
his duty to Atlantis' security or rescuing his love in the hands of the traitor determined on revenge.
The Romance Studio says...
"This underwater treasure is sure to capture the hearts any lover of fantasy, paranormal and sci-fi romance genre. This reviewer will
never look at the ocean or its sea life the same way again. Sheila N. Eskew's ability to created complex subplots will keep you turning
the pages in rapid succession! Her original and off-beat concepts in this story will carry you away like a whirling riptide. Be prepared
to be amazed and dazed by this oceanic adventure called…ATLANTIS VORTEX…" - 4 Hearts, Janalee
Reviews for Atlantis Vortex
"Atlantis Vortex is an amazing blend of action and romance. Jessica and Xerxes struggle to save Atlantis while fighting to be together.
The constant action and deep love of Jessica and Xerxes will keep the reader on the edge of their seat. I enjoyed that Jessica was a
very independent woman who did not depend on Xerxes saving her." - Tewanda, Fallen Angels Reviews
"The action in this story does not stop. A thrilling ride from beginning to end filled with action, intrigue and romance. I loved every
moment of it. Ms. Eskew has written a fantastic journey under the sea and I cannot wait for her next adventure. Congratulations Ms.
Eskew." - 4 1/2 Unicorns, Laura, Enchanted in Romance
"With this well crafted and masterfully told story, the author has created not only the powerful love story of Xerxes and Jessica, but an
entire world for them to belong to. The characters created are wonderful and well formed, but it is Atlantis itself and the imagery
woven within this tale which makes the story come alive. Her attention to detail in explaining how Atlantis and other worlds could and
do still exist makes it believable, allowing the reader to easily suspend any doubts and be swept into the story. This is a long tale but
breezes by due to great plotting and elements of suspense which drive the reader forward wishing to discover what will happen next. I
cannot wait to revisit Atlantis again in the future as well as the 'other' worlds brought to life in between these pages. Start to finish
Atlantis Vortex is a jewel to be treasured. Sequel please and hurry!" - 9 out of 10, Johnna, Novelspot
Read an excerpt from Atlantis Vortex
Visit Sheila Eskew's web site
About Sheila N. Eskew
As Sheila N. Eskew, I enjoy writing Romance, but I am possibly better known as Sultry Summers, my naughty twin who writes erotica-
romance. As Sheila, I have published one other Romance, as Sultry, my stories range from Gothic Vampires to a lighthearted, crash-
landed alien, rescued on Christmas Eve, by a lonely, sexy Wyoming rancher.
I am proud to be among Venus Press' authors, under both names, with two more books due to be available soon. Atlantis Vortex,
available now, is a Paranormal Romance that will thrill readers with the astounding plot and spicy romance. Sultry's next two books,
due out soon, one a story included in Venus Press' Son's of Zeus series, Trojan Gold, is an erotic story involving a fateful trip to Troy.
The other book is a re-release, Planet of Veils, due out possibly before Trojan Gold.
Many readers and authors also know me as "Orange", the Chat Coordinator for The Romance Studio. I enjoy doing the chats, this
way I meet many, or most of the other authors - learn what is going on in the business and make a lot of new friends.
I am also a wife of 33 years and a mother of a highly energetic and outgoing seventeen-year-old daughter who keeps me on my toes,
and looks out after me when I'm on a creative binge. As a family, we hike, take photos, and bicycle not only in Florida but the
Appalachians and Smoky Mountains as well.
Please visit my web site for more information on me www.sqpens.com - It is an extensive site, one that will, in the next few days have
pictures from my husband and I renewing our wedding vows in the mountains just last month, so enjoy!
Also by Sheila N. Eskew/Sultry Summers
Three Moons Rising (as Sheila N. Eskew)
Gift of the Nightflyer (as Sultry Summers also from Venus Press)
Planet of Veils (as Sultry Summers)
Trojan Gold (as Sultry Summers, part of Venus Press' Sons of Zeus' series)
An Interview with Sheila N. Eskew
By Holly Hewson Marketing Director for The Romance Studio
HH: Sheila, I'm so happy to have the opportunity to interview you for The Romance Studio! Tell us about your featured book, Atlantis
Vortex. It's gotten some truly wonderful reviews.
SE: I am very proud to say - YES, Atlantis Vortex has received wonderful reviews and they are viewable on my web site at http://www.
sqpens.com/AtlantisVortexreviews.html, now, about the book.
Set between modern day opulent West Palm Beach and the very Country/Western area 45 miles west, in the City of Okeechobee at
the north end of Lake Okeechobee, as well of course as, the Atlantic Ocean, Atlantis Vortex is a book of high adventure, intrigue, and
spicy romance in the hot Florida sun. Xerxes, handsome, young, and the High Lord of Atlantis, finds himself facing a traitor trying to
steal control of Atlantis, while demanding the death of Jessica, the beautiful spitfire archaeologist who has stumbled onto the lost
entrance of his underwater world. By doing so, she has unknowingly endangered herself and Atlantis. Since rescuing her years
before from a dive mishap, Xerxes has watched Jessica, falling in love with her, though she doesn't remember him, except in her
dreams. (That mystery you'll have to read out about in the book.) Her discovery presents a unique opportunity for him. As High Lord of
Atlantis, it is his duty to protect his world from discovery. To do so, he must either execute Jessica to protect the secret, or bring her to
Atlantis and convince her to remain as his bride. To Xerxes, the choice is an easy one; he knows Jessica and he are fated to be
together. Still he has a traitor in his midst, one who is determined to either take control of Atlantis or reveal it to the world. Xerxes has
his hands full, before he can steal Jessica away from her upper-world life, certain measures must be taken to ensure the entrance
she has found is destroyed. He also must save Jessica from a group of pagan Aztecs who have marked her as the perfect sacrifice
to their god. One of my favorite scenes is Xerxes saving her in the middle of a hurricane from a grizzly sacrificial death. It is a very
dramatic episode and Xerxes is aided by the Ambassador from Alpha-Centauri, - Yes, there are Aliens as well. This however is only
the beginning of the adventure, the excitement, and the love between Jessica and Xerxes. For the rest, well, I guess the readers will
have to do just that, read. As you pointed out, the reviews are wonderful and the readers will not be bored, nor is the erotic ignored
though it is not a TRS Blue piece, it is spicy.
HH: What gave you the idea for this remarkable story, Sheila? I've always loved the stories of Atlantis. But your take on it is so fresh
and exciting.
SE: This story came about as a tale spun on a short road trip with my then 12-year-old daughter, the heavy romance scenes were
added later. She is now 17, and old enough, to read it, well almost. I had been toying with the idea, and had most of it penned, by
hand, down in a notebook. When she was that age she enjoyed Mom's stories told aloud and she asked me to write her in, now it is
a little weird though to think about her as the heroine. As for the "take" on it, I've always sat on the beach, on the east coast of Florida,
especially at sunset (looking east is unbelievably beautiful even with the sun behind me) and I just know Atlantis is out there.
Moreover, I've snorkeled the area around West Palm Beach and the stones (underwater) are much like the ones near Bimini in the
Bahamas - they appear to be "cut". Some of the characters are people I have encountered in the area, the Aztec priest that the
hammerhead shark bites in the butt is a real person, though not a priest, he was a pain in the butt. I have seen Central American
men swim in their black jeans (another thing you will have to read the book to find out about). So much of the book "is real" the
places, the faces, and the attitudes of the people, it was natural. When the idea came to me, Lake Okeechobee was in a terrible
drought and it would not have surprised me at all to see the top of a pyramid jutting up out of the mud.
HH: What sort of research was involved in its writing?
SE: Jessica, my daughter did a lot of it, but then I knew a great deal already, I've always loved Atlantis as she does too. We've watched
numerous Discover and History channel programs, read several books and myths on Atlantis and know there are more
contemporary ideas on the true location of Atlantis. This is just my personal favorite. What has always impressed me is that there are
so many legends around the world about a "lost continent" and always the translation comes out the same, Atlantis. There are
always basis for myths, some truth is in there, somewhere, as it states in the author's note in Atlantis Vortex.
HH: What are you working on now?
SE: My favorite question. LOL - I always have something cooking, finishing is the trick. Trojan Gold, is awaiting edits with Venus
Press, I haven't a date on that but it is in their coming soon list. That is one of Sultry's books as is Planet of Veils, a re-release. As for
Sheila, Vortex in Time, is the sequel to Atlantis Vortex, written in rough and will soon be ready to be presented, I'm not sure which
publisher will get that lucky piece it is as good and possibly better than Atlantis Vortex, the characters are established, but this is a
time travel piece and a desperate love story. Jessica and Xerxes must fight all kinds of odds and time itself to find each other again. I
have several friends who get a look-see before it goes out they are in love with it.
HH: What is your writing routine like? And what motivates you?
SE: Many things motivate me - sometimes a walk on the beach or in the woods - anger can be very effective, and frustration works
well if it is the right kind. I think the best motivation however is the support I've gotten from a few good friends in this community of
authors, there are several, very close friends, three of which are here at The Romance Studio. The support I've gotten from our
fearless leader is invaluable. NO, I am not being nice, or trying to make points. That doesn't work and I don't do that anyway - it is
simple truth and knowing people I can depend on for the truth good or bad. Someone who tells you when you are wrong is more
valuable than one who is always telling you, you are right. My husband motivates me as does my daughter, they push for bigger
things than I believe myself capable of. Then there are another couple of friends who are more like family, one who helps with my
writing and keeps my head screwed on straight.
As for a routine - gee, right now that is a difficult question to answer, we are still, after a year repairing from the storms of last
hurricane season. Yes I know to many that seems like a ridiculous amount of time. It isn't, believe me, there are many people in our
community in much worse shape in getting their homes back in order than we are. It is unbelievable how a natural disaster takes a
toll on your life. I can only imagine what the tsunami victims lives are like. For them it may never be "normal" again, judging from what
we are dealing with, and in comparison, our problems are small.
HH: Hope that your repair efforts continue to move along well, Sheila. What have you not tried in your writing career that you would like
to?
SE: I am slowly working on a piece about my Mother who was born with a handicap, or I prefer to say challenged, she lead an
interesting life up until just after WWII. During the war, she served our country with distinction and was honored for her efforts. She
had a high security clearance and had a hand in the Manhattan Project. When that piece is finished, I have high hopes for it. I want to
write a "meaningful piece" something that will touch people and make them think. Please don't misunderstand, I love Romance,
Paranormal is my favorite and always will be, but as I have written, I have come to know, I also want to write more in depth works.
Even in the paranormal and romance genres - I would truly love to write a book that will leave an impression, but then, what author
wouldn't?
HH: You are also the very famous and popular chat coordinator for TRS. As Orange you rule the chat scene. What can you tell us
about your adventures with chats at TRS?
SE: I love it! It is a challenge, keeps me in touch with the community of authors and I get to make new contacts and friends. What
more is there? We, the authors in the chats, the readers who attend, those who come regularly all have a great time. At least I hope
they do. They come back so I assume they do. I enjoy an "open room" where people can be themselves and not be intimidated by
rules. The only thing I ask is that we stay on the author who is the guest of the evening. Unless she/he wishes to stray a bit and that
happens, so we go with the flow, to a point, then come back. So many times the authors will hatch the most interesting plots in a chat.
I cannot help but wonder how many times a real story comes out of one. Chats run from sometimes four in a room to 25 and those
get a bit wild, but that's fun too. I know the other groups have picked up on their chats, and that's great, there are enough authors and
readers for us all. So many genres, so many books, so few chat rooms and time. All are welcome in my room, I've never kicked
anyone out. I am looking forward to the RT convention in Daytona Beach in 2006, it is a two-hour drive from where I live, I will actually
get to meet some of these authors and they will get to see me. What a high. I just hope I have a few more books out by then, I do work
slowly. I have a daughter who I've home schooled and will graduate just after RT. That must come first and she will be there - she is
excited as well. Hubby has refused to wear a kilt. He isn't Scottish but is Dutch, so he will dress as a Viking, OH wow, girls - hands off,
he is all mine. LOL However, and I did stray, I look forward to representing The Romance Studio, whether in costume or dressed for
whatever occasion. I am really proud to be a part of this group.
HH: I know TRS is very proud of you. What does your family think of your writing?
SE: They support it!!! Frank, my husband proofs for me. He tells me I am a great writer, but then he is prejudice - but I'll take his
praise, he tells everyone his wife is a writer. He bought me a gold necklace with a gold, old fashioned, pen point for an ink pen,
charm. I wear proudly. He also insisted that I have business cards printed and he hands them out like candy. He educates people on
what e-books are and is on my case at all time to submit to a NY house. I am not ready to go there - yet, but he thinks I am. God I love
that man. He surprised me this vacation by taking me to renew our wedding vows, way up in the mountains, Jessica, our daughter
was our witness, it was all his idea. Yes - Jessica in Atlantis Vortex, read the dedication. Who else??
HH: What do you in any spare time?
NP: Spare time? What is that? Actually, I do counted cross-stitch, garden, for mother's day and birthdays I get roses, bushes to grow,
which I prefer and he surprises me with orchids to grow at the oddest times. I have quite a collection. He then takes pictures of them
when I get them to bloom. I also sew, but it's been awhile and I really need to get back at that and design my own stuff on occasion. I'll
need some nice new outfits for RT, but then of course Macy's isn't far away either. LOL! We also bicycle as a family, go on road trips in
our van and on photo trips - then there are the attractions in Orlando like Disney World and such.
HH: What can fans look forward to from Sheila N. Eskew?
SE: You can look forward to actually seeing me! I will, with in the next few days be posting, to my web site at www.sqpens.com, some
of my wedding renewal pictures. That's a first, I've never posted a picture of myself before, plus the one I've sent with this interview.
Hope the computers don't all break LOL.
AS for works, that is a hard question. I do work slowly because I stay busy with other things, not because I really want to, but it works
out that way. Family is first in this house. There is just the three of us, and Jessica will, in two years, or really less be in college. This
is a precious time and Frank and I value it highly. It was 16 years before we were blessed with her, and she wants to join the Navy
and fly. After Jessica starts college, I'll be writing more, though her first two years will be Junior college and she will still be home, she
will be busy, so Mom will have more time.
I do have sequels to Atlantis as I have said, and Gift of the Nightflyer as well. My first romance novel that I published through
iUniverse, is undergoing an edit and will be published either through an e-publisher or a NY house (I hope) one or the other and as
for new works, there are two I hope to present soon. Both romance paranormals that will be under Sheila. Sultry is always up to
something, but she writes erotica and short. Really, it is a matter of time to finish, getting with my friend who does some editing for
me. With all authors, finding a publisher that recognizes our abilities is the key. I will assure you - you will see more from me, one way
or another, there are far too many people who like how I write and want to read my work. As time provides it will appear, keep
watching. Christmas Rescue is due to be re-released by Venus Press for Christmas but that is not yet certain. As good as the
reviews were on it when it came out under Swanbeauty, I hope they do present it. With the present changes I just don't know yet.
Holly, it has been great being interviewed by you and featured by my home group The Romance Studio. Everyone who talks with me
knows how I feel about The Romance Studio. TRS ROCKS !!! To me, there is none better. The best reviews come from here, they are
honest, ethical, and a reader can depend on them. I have watched The Romance Studio start and grow from a small review group to
worldwide recognition. I know this, in my chat room, I've had people from Singapore, Scotland, South America, Australia, Germany,
Arabia, Iraq, and of course the United States. However, I do value highly the reviews I have received from Fallen Angels Reviews,
Novelspot, Road to Romance and Enchanted by Romance, they too have been wonderful and I sincerely thank those reviewers for
their efforts, honesty, and artful reviews. The more the merrier.
Thanks again to you all.
Sheila N. Eskew, Sultry Summers, and of course simply Orange
Author, reviewer, and Chat Coordinator for the Romance Studio www.sqpens.com
HH: Thank you, Sheila!
young archaeologist discovers an ancient and unused entrance to the now submerged Atlantis, Xerxes solution is a simple one, he
decides to take her as his bride.
Order from Venus Press today!
After he saved her and her family's lives in a dive mishap several years previously he had kept watch over her from a distance. Both
fell in love that day. Xerxes knew at once, however because he had to protect Atlantis, he gave Jessica and her parents an alien drug
to cloud their memories. Jessica only remembered his aquamarine eyes and an arousing touch on her skin.
Jessica finding the entrance was Fate bringing their lives together again, but Xerxes soon found there are major difficulties in the way.
Jessica's independence one of them. Her own woman, she was not about to allow a man to control her life. If a spirited and beautiful,
if not so willing a wife wasn't enough, a traitor trying to take over his rule of Atlantis complicates matters. Now Xerxes must choose,
his duty to Atlantis' security or rescuing his love in the hands of the traitor determined on revenge.
The Romance Studio says...
"This underwater treasure is sure to capture the hearts any lover of fantasy, paranormal and sci-fi romance genre. This reviewer will
never look at the ocean or its sea life the same way again. Sheila N. Eskew's ability to created complex subplots will keep you turning
the pages in rapid succession! Her original and off-beat concepts in this story will carry you away like a whirling riptide. Be prepared
to be amazed and dazed by this oceanic adventure called…ATLANTIS VORTEX…" - 4 Hearts, Janalee
Reviews for Atlantis Vortex
"Atlantis Vortex is an amazing blend of action and romance. Jessica and Xerxes struggle to save Atlantis while fighting to be together.
The constant action and deep love of Jessica and Xerxes will keep the reader on the edge of their seat. I enjoyed that Jessica was a
very independent woman who did not depend on Xerxes saving her." - Tewanda, Fallen Angels Reviews
"The action in this story does not stop. A thrilling ride from beginning to end filled with action, intrigue and romance. I loved every
moment of it. Ms. Eskew has written a fantastic journey under the sea and I cannot wait for her next adventure. Congratulations Ms.
Eskew." - 4 1/2 Unicorns, Laura, Enchanted in Romance
"With this well crafted and masterfully told story, the author has created not only the powerful love story of Xerxes and Jessica, but an
entire world for them to belong to. The characters created are wonderful and well formed, but it is Atlantis itself and the imagery
woven within this tale which makes the story come alive. Her attention to detail in explaining how Atlantis and other worlds could and
do still exist makes it believable, allowing the reader to easily suspend any doubts and be swept into the story. This is a long tale but
breezes by due to great plotting and elements of suspense which drive the reader forward wishing to discover what will happen next. I
cannot wait to revisit Atlantis again in the future as well as the 'other' worlds brought to life in between these pages. Start to finish
Atlantis Vortex is a jewel to be treasured. Sequel please and hurry!" - 9 out of 10, Johnna, Novelspot
Read an excerpt from Atlantis Vortex
Visit Sheila Eskew's web site
About Sheila N. Eskew
As Sheila N. Eskew, I enjoy writing Romance, but I am possibly better known as Sultry Summers, my naughty twin who writes erotica-
romance. As Sheila, I have published one other Romance, as Sultry, my stories range from Gothic Vampires to a lighthearted, crash-
landed alien, rescued on Christmas Eve, by a lonely, sexy Wyoming rancher.
I am proud to be among Venus Press' authors, under both names, with two more books due to be available soon. Atlantis Vortex,
available now, is a Paranormal Romance that will thrill readers with the astounding plot and spicy romance. Sultry's next two books,
due out soon, one a story included in Venus Press' Son's of Zeus series, Trojan Gold, is an erotic story involving a fateful trip to Troy.
The other book is a re-release, Planet of Veils, due out possibly before Trojan Gold.
Many readers and authors also know me as "Orange", the Chat Coordinator for The Romance Studio. I enjoy doing the chats, this
way I meet many, or most of the other authors - learn what is going on in the business and make a lot of new friends.
I am also a wife of 33 years and a mother of a highly energetic and outgoing seventeen-year-old daughter who keeps me on my toes,
and looks out after me when I'm on a creative binge. As a family, we hike, take photos, and bicycle not only in Florida but the
Appalachians and Smoky Mountains as well.
Please visit my web site for more information on me www.sqpens.com - It is an extensive site, one that will, in the next few days have
pictures from my husband and I renewing our wedding vows in the mountains just last month, so enjoy!
Also by Sheila N. Eskew/Sultry Summers
Three Moons Rising (as Sheila N. Eskew)
Gift of the Nightflyer (as Sultry Summers also from Venus Press)
Planet of Veils (as Sultry Summers)
Trojan Gold (as Sultry Summers, part of Venus Press' Sons of Zeus' series)
An Interview with Sheila N. Eskew
By Holly Hewson Marketing Director for The Romance Studio
HH: Sheila, I'm so happy to have the opportunity to interview you for The Romance Studio! Tell us about your featured book, Atlantis
Vortex. It's gotten some truly wonderful reviews.
SE: I am very proud to say - YES, Atlantis Vortex has received wonderful reviews and they are viewable on my web site at http://www.
sqpens.com/AtlantisVortexreviews.html, now, about the book.
Set between modern day opulent West Palm Beach and the very Country/Western area 45 miles west, in the City of Okeechobee at
the north end of Lake Okeechobee, as well of course as, the Atlantic Ocean, Atlantis Vortex is a book of high adventure, intrigue, and
spicy romance in the hot Florida sun. Xerxes, handsome, young, and the High Lord of Atlantis, finds himself facing a traitor trying to
steal control of Atlantis, while demanding the death of Jessica, the beautiful spitfire archaeologist who has stumbled onto the lost
entrance of his underwater world. By doing so, she has unknowingly endangered herself and Atlantis. Since rescuing her years
before from a dive mishap, Xerxes has watched Jessica, falling in love with her, though she doesn't remember him, except in her
dreams. (That mystery you'll have to read out about in the book.) Her discovery presents a unique opportunity for him. As High Lord of
Atlantis, it is his duty to protect his world from discovery. To do so, he must either execute Jessica to protect the secret, or bring her to
Atlantis and convince her to remain as his bride. To Xerxes, the choice is an easy one; he knows Jessica and he are fated to be
together. Still he has a traitor in his midst, one who is determined to either take control of Atlantis or reveal it to the world. Xerxes has
his hands full, before he can steal Jessica away from her upper-world life, certain measures must be taken to ensure the entrance
she has found is destroyed. He also must save Jessica from a group of pagan Aztecs who have marked her as the perfect sacrifice
to their god. One of my favorite scenes is Xerxes saving her in the middle of a hurricane from a grizzly sacrificial death. It is a very
dramatic episode and Xerxes is aided by the Ambassador from Alpha-Centauri, - Yes, there are Aliens as well. This however is only
the beginning of the adventure, the excitement, and the love between Jessica and Xerxes. For the rest, well, I guess the readers will
have to do just that, read. As you pointed out, the reviews are wonderful and the readers will not be bored, nor is the erotic ignored
though it is not a TRS Blue piece, it is spicy.
HH: What gave you the idea for this remarkable story, Sheila? I've always loved the stories of Atlantis. But your take on it is so fresh
and exciting.
SE: This story came about as a tale spun on a short road trip with my then 12-year-old daughter, the heavy romance scenes were
added later. She is now 17, and old enough, to read it, well almost. I had been toying with the idea, and had most of it penned, by
hand, down in a notebook. When she was that age she enjoyed Mom's stories told aloud and she asked me to write her in, now it is
a little weird though to think about her as the heroine. As for the "take" on it, I've always sat on the beach, on the east coast of Florida,
especially at sunset (looking east is unbelievably beautiful even with the sun behind me) and I just know Atlantis is out there.
Moreover, I've snorkeled the area around West Palm Beach and the stones (underwater) are much like the ones near Bimini in the
Bahamas - they appear to be "cut". Some of the characters are people I have encountered in the area, the Aztec priest that the
hammerhead shark bites in the butt is a real person, though not a priest, he was a pain in the butt. I have seen Central American
men swim in their black jeans (another thing you will have to read the book to find out about). So much of the book "is real" the
places, the faces, and the attitudes of the people, it was natural. When the idea came to me, Lake Okeechobee was in a terrible
drought and it would not have surprised me at all to see the top of a pyramid jutting up out of the mud.
HH: What sort of research was involved in its writing?
SE: Jessica, my daughter did a lot of it, but then I knew a great deal already, I've always loved Atlantis as she does too. We've watched
numerous Discover and History channel programs, read several books and myths on Atlantis and know there are more
contemporary ideas on the true location of Atlantis. This is just my personal favorite. What has always impressed me is that there are
so many legends around the world about a "lost continent" and always the translation comes out the same, Atlantis. There are
always basis for myths, some truth is in there, somewhere, as it states in the author's note in Atlantis Vortex.
HH: What are you working on now?
SE: My favorite question. LOL - I always have something cooking, finishing is the trick. Trojan Gold, is awaiting edits with Venus
Press, I haven't a date on that but it is in their coming soon list. That is one of Sultry's books as is Planet of Veils, a re-release. As for
Sheila, Vortex in Time, is the sequel to Atlantis Vortex, written in rough and will soon be ready to be presented, I'm not sure which
publisher will get that lucky piece it is as good and possibly better than Atlantis Vortex, the characters are established, but this is a
time travel piece and a desperate love story. Jessica and Xerxes must fight all kinds of odds and time itself to find each other again. I
have several friends who get a look-see before it goes out they are in love with it.
HH: What is your writing routine like? And what motivates you?
SE: Many things motivate me - sometimes a walk on the beach or in the woods - anger can be very effective, and frustration works
well if it is the right kind. I think the best motivation however is the support I've gotten from a few good friends in this community of
authors, there are several, very close friends, three of which are here at The Romance Studio. The support I've gotten from our
fearless leader is invaluable. NO, I am not being nice, or trying to make points. That doesn't work and I don't do that anyway - it is
simple truth and knowing people I can depend on for the truth good or bad. Someone who tells you when you are wrong is more
valuable than one who is always telling you, you are right. My husband motivates me as does my daughter, they push for bigger
things than I believe myself capable of. Then there are another couple of friends who are more like family, one who helps with my
writing and keeps my head screwed on straight.
As for a routine - gee, right now that is a difficult question to answer, we are still, after a year repairing from the storms of last
hurricane season. Yes I know to many that seems like a ridiculous amount of time. It isn't, believe me, there are many people in our
community in much worse shape in getting their homes back in order than we are. It is unbelievable how a natural disaster takes a
toll on your life. I can only imagine what the tsunami victims lives are like. For them it may never be "normal" again, judging from what
we are dealing with, and in comparison, our problems are small.
HH: Hope that your repair efforts continue to move along well, Sheila. What have you not tried in your writing career that you would like
to?
SE: I am slowly working on a piece about my Mother who was born with a handicap, or I prefer to say challenged, she lead an
interesting life up until just after WWII. During the war, she served our country with distinction and was honored for her efforts. She
had a high security clearance and had a hand in the Manhattan Project. When that piece is finished, I have high hopes for it. I want to
write a "meaningful piece" something that will touch people and make them think. Please don't misunderstand, I love Romance,
Paranormal is my favorite and always will be, but as I have written, I have come to know, I also want to write more in depth works.
Even in the paranormal and romance genres - I would truly love to write a book that will leave an impression, but then, what author
wouldn't?
HH: You are also the very famous and popular chat coordinator for TRS. As Orange you rule the chat scene. What can you tell us
about your adventures with chats at TRS?
SE: I love it! It is a challenge, keeps me in touch with the community of authors and I get to make new contacts and friends. What
more is there? We, the authors in the chats, the readers who attend, those who come regularly all have a great time. At least I hope
they do. They come back so I assume they do. I enjoy an "open room" where people can be themselves and not be intimidated by
rules. The only thing I ask is that we stay on the author who is the guest of the evening. Unless she/he wishes to stray a bit and that
happens, so we go with the flow, to a point, then come back. So many times the authors will hatch the most interesting plots in a chat.
I cannot help but wonder how many times a real story comes out of one. Chats run from sometimes four in a room to 25 and those
get a bit wild, but that's fun too. I know the other groups have picked up on their chats, and that's great, there are enough authors and
readers for us all. So many genres, so many books, so few chat rooms and time. All are welcome in my room, I've never kicked
anyone out. I am looking forward to the RT convention in Daytona Beach in 2006, it is a two-hour drive from where I live, I will actually
get to meet some of these authors and they will get to see me. What a high. I just hope I have a few more books out by then, I do work
slowly. I have a daughter who I've home schooled and will graduate just after RT. That must come first and she will be there - she is
excited as well. Hubby has refused to wear a kilt. He isn't Scottish but is Dutch, so he will dress as a Viking, OH wow, girls - hands off,
he is all mine. LOL However, and I did stray, I look forward to representing The Romance Studio, whether in costume or dressed for
whatever occasion. I am really proud to be a part of this group.
HH: I know TRS is very proud of you. What does your family think of your writing?
SE: They support it!!! Frank, my husband proofs for me. He tells me I am a great writer, but then he is prejudice - but I'll take his
praise, he tells everyone his wife is a writer. He bought me a gold necklace with a gold, old fashioned, pen point for an ink pen,
charm. I wear proudly. He also insisted that I have business cards printed and he hands them out like candy. He educates people on
what e-books are and is on my case at all time to submit to a NY house. I am not ready to go there - yet, but he thinks I am. God I love
that man. He surprised me this vacation by taking me to renew our wedding vows, way up in the mountains, Jessica, our daughter
was our witness, it was all his idea. Yes - Jessica in Atlantis Vortex, read the dedication. Who else??
HH: What do you in any spare time?
NP: Spare time? What is that? Actually, I do counted cross-stitch, garden, for mother's day and birthdays I get roses, bushes to grow,
which I prefer and he surprises me with orchids to grow at the oddest times. I have quite a collection. He then takes pictures of them
when I get them to bloom. I also sew, but it's been awhile and I really need to get back at that and design my own stuff on occasion. I'll
need some nice new outfits for RT, but then of course Macy's isn't far away either. LOL! We also bicycle as a family, go on road trips in
our van and on photo trips - then there are the attractions in Orlando like Disney World and such.
HH: What can fans look forward to from Sheila N. Eskew?
SE: You can look forward to actually seeing me! I will, with in the next few days be posting, to my web site at www.sqpens.com, some
of my wedding renewal pictures. That's a first, I've never posted a picture of myself before, plus the one I've sent with this interview.
Hope the computers don't all break LOL.
AS for works, that is a hard question. I do work slowly because I stay busy with other things, not because I really want to, but it works
out that way. Family is first in this house. There is just the three of us, and Jessica will, in two years, or really less be in college. This
is a precious time and Frank and I value it highly. It was 16 years before we were blessed with her, and she wants to join the Navy
and fly. After Jessica starts college, I'll be writing more, though her first two years will be Junior college and she will still be home, she
will be busy, so Mom will have more time.
I do have sequels to Atlantis as I have said, and Gift of the Nightflyer as well. My first romance novel that I published through
iUniverse, is undergoing an edit and will be published either through an e-publisher or a NY house (I hope) one or the other and as
for new works, there are two I hope to present soon. Both romance paranormals that will be under Sheila. Sultry is always up to
something, but she writes erotica and short. Really, it is a matter of time to finish, getting with my friend who does some editing for
me. With all authors, finding a publisher that recognizes our abilities is the key. I will assure you - you will see more from me, one way
or another, there are far too many people who like how I write and want to read my work. As time provides it will appear, keep
watching. Christmas Rescue is due to be re-released by Venus Press for Christmas but that is not yet certain. As good as the
reviews were on it when it came out under Swanbeauty, I hope they do present it. With the present changes I just don't know yet.
Holly, it has been great being interviewed by you and featured by my home group The Romance Studio. Everyone who talks with me
knows how I feel about The Romance Studio. TRS ROCKS !!! To me, there is none better. The best reviews come from here, they are
honest, ethical, and a reader can depend on them. I have watched The Romance Studio start and grow from a small review group to
worldwide recognition. I know this, in my chat room, I've had people from Singapore, Scotland, South America, Australia, Germany,
Arabia, Iraq, and of course the United States. However, I do value highly the reviews I have received from Fallen Angels Reviews,
Novelspot, Road to Romance and Enchanted by Romance, they too have been wonderful and I sincerely thank those reviewers for
their efforts, honesty, and artful reviews. The more the merrier.
Thanks again to you all.
Sheila N. Eskew, Sultry Summers, and of course simply Orange
Author, reviewer, and Chat Coordinator for the Romance Studio www.sqpens.com
HH: Thank you, Sheila!
Walk With Me