My name is Linda Rettstatt. I grew up in Southwestern Pennsylvania, but now reside in Mississippi. I have a master's degree in Social Work, but my passion is in writing. I'm a published author of women's fiction and contemporary romance. I rediscovered my passion for writing after fifty, and following this path now has given me renewed life and energy.

My website address is: www.lindarettstatt.com

My writing blog is: www.lindarettstatt-author.blogspot.com

Please stop by and visit.

How did you get to where you are now?

I got to where I am now in a very circular manner. In high school, I'd decided I would become a writer. Then I took a left, a right, another turn and...well, onto other paths. Six years ago, I got myself back onto that original path and followed my passion into fiction writing. Five published women's fiction novels later, I finally feel I'm where I belong.

How do you see yourself differently now than you did 10 years ago?

I think I have much greater self-confidence now, and much less concern about what other people think. Ten years ago, I was just dipping my toes into the waters of change in my life. Now I dive in head first and come up smiling.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

On the NY Times Bestseller list--for starters. In ten years I hope to only be more certain, more secure and more committed to following the passion that gives me life and joy.

Pay attention. Especially to that voice inside. Don't be distracted from what gives your heart joy. The time will come when you no longer make decisions based upon 'shoulds' and the desires of others. Keep moving forward.

Elizabeth Berg was my first writing role model, followed by Janet Evanovich, Kris Radish, Lisa Scottoline, and Nicholas Sparks.

I find Barbara Sher to be inspiring and try to live by her words: It's only too late if you don't start now.