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I’m a former Army Ranger, an Afghan vet that’s faced my share of battles, but nothing in my training has prepared me for the road trip I’m about to take alone with Riley, the daughter of my best buddy.

Josh and I grew up in a Vermont small town. We joined the Army after high school and we busted our asses to become Rangers. I’ll never forget the night he died on a mission in Afghanistan, leaving behind his young daughter Riley and his wife, Laci.

Years later, when Laci died, it became my duty to fulfill her final wish, to drive her daughter from New Mexico to Vermont to Josh’s mother, the only family Riley has left. While I take Riley to her grandmother, I’m to tell her about a father she doesn’t know and the harder memories of how Josh and Laci’s lives intertwined with mine.

Riley is a 20-year-old smoking hot beauty with sass, determination, and she won’t back down, especially from me. And yeah, she’s my type. Damn, she's more than just a temptation, she’s my best buddy's daughter. I know where my duty lies, so this brown-eyed girl is off limits.

I have to be honest with myself; there's no point in sugarcoating this situation. What could that princess see in a 40-year-old soldier still battling his own demons? Being in close quarters on a long road trip with her will be challenging enough, but staying true to my loyalty to Josh and protecting his daughter, even from my own feelings, will be the real test. I can do it. I can be a hard ass and complete the mission, but damn, she’s beautiful.

420 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 4, 2024

13 people are currently reading
85 people want to read

About the author

Pax Sinclair

10 books52 followers
Pax Sinclair is a contemporary romance novelist who explores the wild world of love and passion. Her novels feature biracial women in interracial relationships, guaranteed to keep you turning pages until the very end.

Prepare to meet a tantalizing cast of characters, from sizzling tech billionaires to swoon-worthy firefighters, hunky men in kilts, and even a hot Army Ranger.

Lose yourself in a steamy rollercoaster ride of emotions and crazy twists, leading to an oh-so-satisfying conclusion.

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5 stars
34 (53%)
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18 (28%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for Mia.
237 reviews6 followers
October 12, 2024
Riley is a great character, so strong after all she's been through a lot but determined to live. She was smart, funny, but a risk taker. When Riley meets Stephens, sparks fly. The romance is top notch in the beginning when they both don't know each other. Later when Stephens came to know that Riley's Josh kid and he's supposed to take her to Josh's mother house in Vermont,everything changes. He denies the fact that he wants her. He totally turns her down. But how long can he hold out? The harder they protest the better it is when they fall.

Those first few chapters were slow but the interaction between Riley and Banks left me with an open jaw and I was sold. I just had to find out what would happen next. Lots of things happen and it is a good lengthy book.

There are some nice steamy scenes, humour and a great group of secondary characters, especially Stephens father and Riley's grandmother and Creed (Riley's Ex boyfriend). The brotherhood between Josh and Banks Stephens explained well.

This story takes us far past the exciting beginning of Stephens relationship with Riley's parents. I loved their story. There is also an incident that happens toward 3/4 of the way in the book that had me sobbing and going through the emotions with the characters.

From the extremely hot scenes, to the great portrayal of military men and the women who love them, it was perfect. The writing is phenomenal. I was completely captivated with each introduction of the individual characters.

Their relationship is not without its ups and downs, being far from perfect, but I loved it. They both seemed so right in their stubborn steadfastness to what they wanted and needed, and even when they were at odds you wanted them to win, to make it work. I found the last half of the book excruciating, it broke my heart more than once, leaving me with ugly cries and in despair.

The characters pull you in and eventually drag you along with them whether you want to go or not. I could not put this book down and had to finish it in one reading. Who needs to sleep when you have characters keeping you awake?

I loved the chemistry between Banks and Riley. Their bantering throughout the road trip was really funny and they were so good together. When they finally got together in all ways it was off the charts. But I also love the other relationships in this book.

The story deals with loss, grief, forgiveness, friendship, and an age- gap forbidden all-consuming love. A fabulous story.

I loved the humor & the emotions within, I loved the characters and most of all, I loved the letters. Great secondary characters and I would read their stories if Pax chooses to write about them. Definitely one of the best books I've read so far this year.
1,264 reviews10 followers
July 1, 2024
Riley's ultimate road trip, the "I may never pass this way again" tour. 

Riley Berridge's father died before she was old enough to remember him. Josh, her father, was an Army Ranger who died in the line of duty. Her mother, Laci, found it too painful to talk about him, so she didn't. Riley knows he loved her and her mother very much. She never knew she had a paternal grandmother until after her mother's death. Josh's mother, Virginia, had never accepted Laci. To her, Laci was so far from being worthy of Josh that the Hubble telescope wouldn't even be able to spot her. 

Laci had contacted her MIL, Virginia, when she knew she'd die soon. Unknown to Riley, plans were made for Banks to collect her from her home in New Mexico and drive her to her grandmother in Vermont. Banks is to tell Riley about her father on the trip. He and Josh were childhood friends, and he'd also served in Josh's Ranger unit. 

Virginia holds Banks and Max, his father, responsible for Josh's death. If it hadn't been for them, he would have never joined the Army, let alone the Rangers. He would have been safe at home, running the family business. 

Thomas Banks Stephens is known to one and all as Banks. He's a former Army Ranger who was best friends with both Josh and Laci. The two of them grew up in the same Vermont town. Max, Banks' father, considered Josh his third son, much to the dismay of Virginia. 

Ri and Banks met the night before he was to pick up his package, as he refers to Riley. There was a strong attraction despite the age difference, although he didn't realize just how young she actually was. Imagine his surprise the next morning when he learns that Ri is Riley, and she's not the nine-year-old he was expecting!

I received a free copy of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
9,376 reviews140 followers
July 1, 2024
This is a well written age gap/taboo romance with strong characters in Riley and Banks. The author does a great job developing both the story and her characters and takes you into their lives with chemistry and love. She moves the story fluidly and delivers a terrific read.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
Profile Image for Good Booking Girl.
431 reviews16 followers
October 25, 2024
A beautiful portrait of love, grief, rediscovery and what it means to be a part of something.
This age-gap/taboo romance is about Riley (21 yrs old) and Banks (40 years old), and their road trip from New Mexico to Vermont.
Riley is the daughter of Banks' best friends, Laci and Joshua .

Joshua and Banks served as Army Rangers together, and one day, when Riley was just in grade school, while on a high risk mission, the vehicle Joshua was riding in, was attacked and it exploded. Joshua died that day, and so did a piece of Banks.

Before Laci died, she left instructions with her lawyer and Riley's paternal grandmother, that Riley is to travel from New Mexico to Vermont to live with her grandmother. and she asked that banks be the one to drive her there, and use the road trip as an opportunity to learn about her father through stories and memories shared.

The night before Riley is to meet with her transporter, she meets a handsome man who she is immediately drawn to. He feels it too. He asks her to show him the town and together they have a fun, easy time together at the town's carnival. She shares with him that her favourite ride is the ferris wheel - that when she is at the very top, she feels free, unstoppable, capable of anything. He finds himself falling for her, which is crazy because he just met her. He can tell she is much younger than him, but not sure just how young. They share a deep, steamy kiss, and he asks her to spend the night with him. She declines, but not because she wouldn't want to, but because she has a boyfriend and she's leaving anyway. what would be the point, she thinks to herself...

The next day, that handsome man shows up at her door. Imagine their surprise when they realize who the other person is. Banks had it in his mind that Riley was still that 9 year old girl - he showed up with a giant rainbow unicorn stuffy.

Riley, with her BFF Otis, a 4 yr old German Shepard, load up in the SUV and go on a road trip that will change their lives.

Riley and Banks learn so much about themselves, each other and Riley is finally learning more about her dad. Laci left Banks her diary, to read in private and to consider sharing parts of it with Riley. In that diary, Banks learns so much more about Laci and the love he, Joshua and Laci had for each other. No, it was not a MMF relationship.

Along the way, they stay with former Rangers, who open their homes and their arms to Banks and Riley. Some either knew her father personally or were part of a team who knew him.

The book is sheds light and insight to the experiences and struggles of a those who serve to protect their country. The author writes about Bank's PTSD with compassion and understanding.

Riley may be young, but she is wise, smart and an old soul. She can see through people and can navigate difficult situations with a maturity not common for someone so young and inexperienced.

Banks is trying his hardest to do the honourable thing by his late friends. He wants to be with Riley, but believes she deserves so much more than his broken pieces. Riley is determined to show him that their age-gap is nothing more than just a number, and that they should listen to their hearts, and not the opinion of others. Will Banks do the "right" thing? or will he do the right thing for himself?

I was given a free ARC of this book, and this review is my opinion
Profile Image for Cassandra Bivens.
159 reviews3 followers
September 11, 2024
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🚗✨ **September Road** by Pax Sinclair ✨🚗

*A heartfelt journey of love, self-discovery, and second chances on the winding roads of life.*

🌟✨ **Review:** ✨🌟

*September Road* by Pax Sinclair is a beautifully emotional story that tugs at the heartstrings as it explores themes of love, healing, and rediscovering oneself. The novel follows the protagonist as they embark on a literal and figurative road trip, seeking to find clarity in their personal relationships and unresolved past.

Sinclair’s writing shines through in the vivid descriptions of both the physical journey and the inner emotional turmoil of the characters. The road trip serves as the perfect metaphor for the twists and turns of life, and the story is filled with reflective moments, heartwarming encounters, and a slow-burn romance that builds gradually over time.

The emotional depth of the protagonist’s journey makes this more than just a romance novel—it’s about self-growth, forgiveness, and the courage to embrace second chances. While some plot points are predictable, the heart of the story lies in the emotional connections between the characters, making it an engaging and fulfilling read.

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🌟 **Highlights:** 🌟
- **Road Trip Adventure**: A beautifully crafted journey of self-discovery with scenic descriptions and emotional encounters.
- **Second Chances**: The theme of redemption and finding love again is explored thoughtfully and tenderly.
- **Emotional Depth**: A story that delves deep into the complexities of healing and moving forward after past heartbreaks.

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💬 **Favorite Quote:**
*"Sometimes the road to healing isn’t straight—it’s full of curves, detours, and unexpected stops along the way."* - A poignant reflection on life’s unpredictable journey.

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🌟 **Rating:** 🌟
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)

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*September Road* is a heartfelt and introspective read, perfect for those who love stories of emotional growth, second chances, and the healing power of love. Pax Sinclair’s storytelling captures the essence of finding oneself on the open road, making it a satisfying journey for readers.

See more reviews at:
Casla Reads

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*I received this book through NetGalley as an ARC reader. This will not in any way affect my thoughts or opinions on the book.*

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86 reviews1 follower
July 7, 2024
Banks is a Former Army Ranger who has struggled with integrating back into civilian life , during his career he went through a lot including loosing his best friend in the last mission he went on. He recieves a letter and request from his best friends wife after she too passes away from cancer asking him to escort their daughter on a road trip across the country to go live with her grandmother. Banks agrees to do it and travels to New Mexico to pick up Riley still picturing the little girl from the pictures her dad shared… little does he realize that Riley is not so little anymore. Riley works in the local diner as a waitress in the small town she grew up in while trying to make ends meet and deal with getting her mothers affairs In order and trying to maintain a connection with her boyfriend creed who seems to be more into his job as a mechanic than showing her any attention. While Riley is working in walks a deliciously mysterious military type with memorizing blue eyes that she is instantly drawn to like no other. They hit it off immediately and he asks Riley to show him around town when her boyfriend says he can’t pick her up from work she agrees and takes him to the local carnival only to see her boyfriend with another girl , Despite Banks asking Riley to spend the night with him she leaves early . The Next morning when Banks arrives to pick up his best friends daughter to say he is stunned to find the same Riley at the door is an understatement! Now he has to travel across the country with the beautiful bombshell he wants nothing more than to claim but knows he can’t, and to make matters worse Riley doesn’t see the problem with the fact he’s her deceased dads best friend.. this book is so full of angst and sparks they burn for each other and it becomes more evident the longer they are together! But there are many obstacles and issues that stand to tear them apart can they overcome it all or will fate derail their love ? This book is very well written it instantly grabs your attention , you feel it all right along with the characters and it keeps you on the edge of your seat for what happens next! There are ups downs and everything in between but it is so worth the Read!!❤️.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,524 reviews42 followers
September 21, 2024
I had not read anything by this author, but enjoyed the characters and heartfelt “family” dynamics of this story. Former Army Ranger Banks Stephens owns his own trucking company, but when money is tight, he agrees to transport the daughter of his deceased best friend and comrade, Josh, to her grandmother in Vermont. He and Josh along with Josh’s wife Laci had been the best of friends prior to Josh’s death on their last mission. The grandmother is paying him to bring Riley Berridge to Vermont and he hopes to share some memories, about her father, with the young girl who lost her father. When he arrives, he is shocked to learn that Riley is not a nine-year-old girl, but twenty and soon to be twenty-one and they will be travelling with her German Shepherd, Otis. He finds himself attracted to her and shouldn’t be, but it isn’t long before she shares that attraction. Riley has plans to “sight see” on their way and he has arranged to stay with other vets who could share their memories of Josh. Will they be able to travel across the country and maintain a platonic friendship? Arriving in Vermont, there are issues and secrets yet to be shared. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
Profile Image for Michelle Frater.
1,717 reviews18 followers
July 5, 2024
I felt a certain air of nostalgia as I imagined Riley’s road trip with Banks; perhaps it reminds me of those great road movies I used to watch when I was young. Of course, adding an enigmatic hottie like Banks just made that journey so much better. It was sad to think that Riley had never known about her paternal grandmother, yet when her mother died, it was her last wish for Riley to go live with her in Vermont. So, as her father’s best friend, Banks was asked to drive her across the country and tell her about a father she didn’t know very well. I had to laugh when he arrived at her door with a giant unicorn in his arms, expecting a child of nine, forgetting how long it had been since her father passed. I loved how the story of Banks, Josh and Laci unfolded along the way through her mother’s diary, alongside the growing feelings between Riley and Banks. But as their journey drew closer to its end, I was dying to see how things would work out and whether Banks could overcome his demons or if he would let them drag him down to hell.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
120 reviews
October 23, 2024
One of the best books I've read! I loved how the author has given such an in depth look into the struggles of PTSD that many of our soldiers live thru everyday. The absolute love and loyalty that they have for each other. My favorite part of the book is the networking and willingness that these soldier have, to make it possible for Banks to take Riley on a road trip and stay at different veteran's home along the way so that Riley could learn more about her dad and his life in the military and the sacrifices he made for his country. I completely understood why Banks struggled with his attraction to Riley after finding out who she was, yet couldn't help but hope he'd open his eyes to the love she offered. Watch for the big surprise, it was AWESOME!! I loved everything about this book and highly recommend. I'd give this book a 10 star if I could!! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for RxReads.
367 reviews4 followers
July 5, 2024
Just finished this book and I gotta say, it hits all the feels! 🌟 The whole road trip vibe mixed with the intense, forbidden feels between the former Army Ranger and his best buddy's daughter Riley is total edge-of-your-seat stuff. The tension is thick, and you can't help but root for them, even when it feels a bit wrong. 😬 The backdrop of their pasts, filled with military drama and personal loss, adds so much depth. It's like, you really get why the stakes are so high for these two. Plus, the way the author handles the whole loyalty vs. love dilemma? Chef's kiss! 👌 Definitely a must-read if you're into stories that keep you guessing and tug at the heartstrings big time. 💔💕.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Nate.
24.2k reviews19 followers
July 13, 2024
This was Josh and Reily’s story. Josh and Reily’s father grew up in a Vermont small town. They joined the Army after high school and busted their butts to become Rangers. He’ll never forget the night his buddy died on a mission in Afghanistan, leaving behind his young daughter Riley and his wife, Laci. Years later, when Laci died, it became Josh’s duty to fulfill her final wishes: to drive her daughter from New Mexico to Vermont to Josh’s mother, the only family Riley has left. While he takes Riley to her grandmother, he’s to tell her about a father she doesn’t know and the harder memories of how Josh and Laci’s lives intertwined with him. This was an engaging and emotional read for me. And voluntarily leaving this review.

Profile Image for Donise.
1,293 reviews3 followers
August 3, 2024
When I first started this book, I wasn't sure that I was going to like it but I am very glad that I stuck with it until the end. This is an emotional book that deals with death, PTSD and what it means to be a Ranger. The heroine is broadsided after her mother dies when she finds out that she has a grandmother on her deceased father's side. She also learns that she is being transported there by a friend of her father's so that she can learn more about the man she doesn't really remember. The main hero is surprised when the little girl he thought he was transporting turns out to be a tempting young lady. I promise if you will stick with this book until the end you won't regret it.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jess.
3,187 reviews27 followers
August 27, 2024
Well, I really really really wanted to like this story.
For some reason I just couldn’t get into this story even though I skipped a few chapters at a time just to finish it.

Riley has just lost her mother and has been told by her mom’s lawyer that she has a grandmother in Vermont. She has three days to decide if she wants to go to Vermont. If she goes, her mother’s last wish is for her deceased father’s closest friend to drive her to her grandmother’s house.
Riley and Banks immediately hit it off even though he’s double her age (40 to her 20).
They go from friends to more to him not even talking to her! Good thing she reaches out to him.
Profile Image for Lori Colwell.
Author 2 books9 followers
August 28, 2024
Military slow burning romance

“September Road” was a slow burning love story that follows Ri, a girl who just lost her mother and has agreed to move to Vermont to live with the grandmother she’s never met, her dad‘s mother. Banks is ex-military and her deceased father‘s best friend.
Banks is hired to drive Riley to Vermont and with immediate sparks, they slowly fall in love during this long road trip. 20 year age gap romance. Lots of character building. A tad long of a read for the content, but an enjoyable read. Recommended for readers who like to savor the slow burning love stories.
Profile Image for Felicia Seay.
526 reviews4 followers
September 19, 2024
September Road is a deeply emotional story of life, loss & love in many forms. An Age-Gap Romance like no other that I've ever read. The book needs editing, as there are several typographical and incorrect facts. However, even with that this is one of the best romance books I've read in a very long time. You'll meet many different character's with amazing personalities on a road trip through various exciting locations. At the same time, unravel secrets and mysteries of the past. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Romance, Age-Gap Romance, Military Romance, Slow-Burn Romance, Drama and Mystery stories.
Profile Image for Amanda.
1,325 reviews8 followers
June 30, 2024
New author for me, could not put this book down. Age Gap Forbidden Romance. Banks Stephens is former Military and he owns his own business and when he's asked to take care of a friend's daughter things get intense. Riley Jameson has lost everyone she's ever loved and now is on her way to meet an estranged grandma. Road Trip with your dad's best friend. Sparks fly, and they both try to resist going down the forbidden road. I loved the chemistry and the adventure these two take. I hope to read about them again
5,573 reviews
July 31, 2024
Drive his dead, best friend's daughter to Vermont. What could possibly happen that doesn't include an attraction to one another?

There's a twenty-year age-gap! For me, if the relationship is right, it's right. No matter the age difference within reason!

Banks deserves to be happy and man, Riley does to! I was hoping that these two would find that happiness together! Even if it's just during their trip! Yeah, right! LOL

Emotional, heart-string pulling romance that I didn't want to put down!

(I could definitely see this as a movie! I would definitely indulge!)
1,210 reviews5 followers
June 30, 2024
I enjoyed reading this book. Once I started reading September Road, I didn't want to put it down. The characters are great and the storyline hooked me from the start. I don't want to spoil this book for anyone so I won't go into details. Please read the book blurb for some additional information. I recommend reading this book. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,201 reviews
July 18, 2024
This is the first book of the Forbidden Silver Attraction series. The storyline is intriguing, interesting and captivating as it holds your attention from the beginning to the end. The characters are well developed and have strong magnetic chemistry. There is an age gap, but it is not a deal breaker for these two. I enjoyed this book. I highly recommend it.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
943 reviews12 followers
October 31, 2024
This age gap slow burn romance is a new release. Thank you to Booksprout for my ARC.

I found this novel to be written well and is more romantic drama than anything else. It has a slow burn between Riley and Banks and if this style of romance read is one you like then I think this will be aa good choice.

For me personally I found some of the novel a little too slow burn, and it seemed to take a long time for anything to happen. I realise that the style is more angst filled drama.
10.8k reviews125 followers
July 6, 2024
I've read several books written by Pax Sinclaire; she is becoming one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of her books.

This is the first book in the Forbidden Silver Attraction Series; it is a stand-alone book. The story is about Riley & Russell; he was her father’s best friend. After both of her parent died he is suppose to take her to her grandmother’s.
Profile Image for Holly.
2,893 reviews
July 13, 2024
This book is very well written and instantly grabs your attention. The storyline is fast pace, engaging so you feel all their pain, angst and sadness.
The romance between this two is sweet and spicy .
There are ups downs and everything in between but it is so worth your time.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Alexis Johnson.
Author 41 books11 followers
August 6, 2024
Brave Army Ranger

The story is interesting the soldier is falling in love with his best friend's daugther. This army man has to get this young lady to her and it is a long drive to get there. He has to keep his self control. September Road is a page turner, hot and steamy age gap romance. Great book.
Profile Image for Judy.
2,016 reviews13 followers
September 20, 2024
This is very emotional. Riley never knew her dad, and her mom just passed away. A grandmother she's never met wants her to live with her. Banks was in the service with her dad and knows more than he's letting on and is tasked with taking her across the country from New Mexico to Virginia. This is an age gap ,HEA.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Ritu.
1,327 reviews9 followers
June 24, 2024
Wow, this book is so good. It takes you on 2 people's journey, that leads to their happiness, with insights from the past. I love the epilogue!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,491 reviews19 followers
July 2, 2024
worth it
Reading Banks and Riley´s story touched my heart, everybody deserves to be loved and when you find your perfect match an age gap really doesn´t matter, who are others to judge and deny other people love and happiness?
Profile Image for Barbara .
6,544 reviews25 followers
July 4, 2024
This is the first book I have read by Pax and wow what a book. It was written very well and has some happy moments and sad moments but overall, it’s a great book. I love how Banks and Riley’s relationship comes together. This is a book I would give 5/5 stars.
Profile Image for casvec.
7,458 reviews75 followers
September 8, 2024
September Roads is an amazing age gap romance that not only takes you on the journey as Riley and Banks travel to Vermont, but the emotional one as they grow closer together mile after mile.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
306 reviews2 followers
October 6, 2024
Wow!
This story was amazing!
So much to take in.
I don't agree with Ri helping Creed.
😒 Ugh! I wish she would have punched Creed in the nuts and send him away.
All in all...
Worth the read.
Do wish there was more, but it ended well.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Profile Image for CONNIEBENNETT26.
157 reviews5 followers
November 1, 2024
Pax Sinclair is an author with a natural gift for writing effortlessly with a perpetual enthusiasm for readers.
Love , Loss and Healing portrayed in a storytelling that has an emotional roller coaster.
Love will always find a way.! ALWAYS
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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