Leaving Amarillo

Quinn's series debut is a refreshing look at one band's quest for country music stardom, from the back roads of Amarillo, Tex., to the bright lights of Nashville. Dixie Lark and her brother, Dallas, have been friends with Gavin Garrison for 10 years, ever since their parents died and they moved to Amarillo with their grandparents. The three of them form a band, Leaving Amarillo, and eventually land a coveted spot at a music festival in Austin. Dixie is struggling with her continued attraction for Gavin, the boy who had always been there for her and the man she wants to love. She knows the feeling is mutual, but Gavin promised Dallas that he would never touch her. Dixie talks Gavin into giving her one night of passion but wonders whether it will be enough for either one of them. Quinn's novel is a complex emotional rollercoaster ride, with love for family and friends playing as much of a role as romance. Agent: Marsal Lyon Literary Agency. (Mar.)