Even though his wife inspired most of his bestselling romance novels, Nicholas Sparks and his wife Cathy have split up. Labeled as the "king of the love story," Nicholas Sparks' own marriage crumbled after standing strong for 25 years.

The author, who has 17 bestselling novels under his belt, told People Magazine he and his wife have decided to go their separate ways. The novelist said this is a decision that was not made lightly. Despite the split, however, he said they would remain great friends. Nicholas said the deep respect they have for each other remains as well as their great love for their children. And because they love their children very much and want the best for them, the writer of the "Notebook," "A Walk to Remember" and other romance titles made into movies said they want to keep the split a private affair.

Nicholas Sparks married Cathy in 1989, seven years before "The Notebook" was published and launched Nicholas to fame as a literary star. The couple has three sons and twin daughters, the youngest being 13 and the oldest, 23. Despite the powerful love stories he penned and the notable characters he crafted through his novels, Nicholas had always been reluctant to call himself a love expert or act like one.

Back in 2003, he told People Magazine he is not comfortable giving out marriage tips because he's hardly the expert at marriage. He said he could learn a lot form couples who have stayed together for so long.

Just two years ago, however, Nicholas described Cathy as his muse and talked of how they keep their relationship strong. "The marriage relationship has to be primary—it's one of the best things you can teach your children," Nicholas said. "So we don't feel guilty if we go for a walk, just the two of us." His wife Cathy also shared some advice for married couples, saying they should take time and effort to go on vacations alone.

Just last month, the "Nights in Rodanthe" writer released the trailer of another super romantic movie of his, "The Longest Ride." The movie stars Scott Eastwood, who got naked at least three times in the duration of the trailer, making fans anticipate the movie.

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