Cynthia Rutledge started writing after taking a class at a local community college. But her interest in the written word started years earlier when she was in her teens. At sixteen she wrote in her diary, "I don't know what I would do if I couldn't be a writer." It took Cindy years to return to her first love—-writing. Unlike some writers, Cindy wasn't interested in shorter works of fiction. She jumped feet first into book length fiction. She loves reading and writing romance because she believes in the power of love and in happily ever after. An incurable romantic, Cindy loves seeing her characters grow and learn from their mistakes and, in the process, achieve a happy ending. Cindy hopes that once you read her books you'll be able to tell she is an eternal optimist, one who truly believes in the power of love. She invites you to kick off your shoes, pick up one of her books and get to know her. She now writes for Harlequin Special Edition and Montlake Romance under Cindy Kirk. Check out her website www.cindykirk.com, friend her on Facebook and follow her on twitter @cindykirkauthor