Married for 25 years, best-selling author Nicholas Sparks and his wife, Cathy separate

NEW YORK (AP) — The marriage of Nicholas Sparks appears headed for an unhappy ending.

Spokeswoman Jill Fritzo of PMK-BNC confirmed Tuesday that the best-selling author and screenwriter had separated from his wife of 25 years, Cathy.

Sparks, 49, said in a statement issued through Fritzo that the decision was not "made lightly" and that he and his wife "remain close friends."

Sparks is known for blending romance and sadness in such novels as "The Notebook" and "The Wedding," the story of a 30-year-old marriage in crisis and how the husband fights to save it. Many of his books have been adapted into feature films.

The news of his separation was first reported by People magazine.