End the Word: a single dad, age gap romance novel

Mackenzie Fuchs, known as Kenzie, a 27-year-old middle school English teacher from Massachusetts, Kenzie relocates to Greenbriar, North Carolina, to support her brother in raising his children, one of whom has Down syndrome. Unbeknownst to her new community, Kenzie is also the bestselling romance author, Mia Hendrix.

Next door, in the same apartment complex, she encounters Luke Dawkins—a single father of two, who has a brother with Down syndrome, navigating the complexities of life and parenthood. Luke, a compassionate and incredibly attractive man, has never met anyone quite like Kenzie. She's a straight shooter who doesn't hold punches, armed with an incredible wit that captivates him from the start.

United by the shared experience of having loved ones with Down syndrome, Kenzie and Luke find solace in each other's company. Despite the hesitations of a single father and the reluctance of a teacher with a secret identity, an undeniable connection blossoms.

As Luke, drawn to Kenzie, attempts to breach the walls around her heart, their bond deepens. Kenzie shares her truth with Luke from the beginning. Their love story takes an unexpected turn when the truth about Kenzie's hidden life as a bestselling author is exposed. In a town where everyone knows everyone, the revelation sends shockwaves through Kenzie's world.

The backlash is swift and unforgiving, forcing her to make difficult choices and confront the consequences of her dual life. Kenzie becomes a fierce advocate for her niece's right to education forcing her to make a life-altering decision. In the face of adversity, she and Luke must navigate the storm of judgment and prejudice, questioning whether their love can withstand the trials that fate has thrust upon age gap, strong female main character, friends to lovers, single dad