Dumplin' meets Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda in this heartfelt and funny contemporary romance inspired by Dollywood, about two boys who fall in love against the backdrop of a country music-themed amusement park, from debut author Brian D. Kennedy. Perfect for fans of Erin Hahn, Phil Stamper, and David Levithan. Emmett Maguire wants to be country music's biggest gay superstar--a far reach when you're seventeen and living in Illinois. But for now, he's happy to do the next best thing: Stay with his aunt in Jackson Hollow, Tennessee, for the summer and perform at the amusement park owned by his idol, country legend Wanda Jean Stubbs. Luke Barnes hates country music. As the grandson of Verna Rose, the disgraced singer who had a famous falling out with Wanda Jean, Luke knows how much pain country music has brought his family. But when his mom's medical bills start piling up, he takes a job at the last place he wants: a restaurant at Wanda World. Neither boy is looking for romance, but sparks fly when they meet--and soon they're inseparable. Until a long-lost secret about Verna and Wanda comes to light, threatening to unravel everything. Will Emmett and Luke be able get past the truths they discover...or will their relationship go down in history as just another Sad Country Love Song?
Brian D. Kennedy Books
Brian D. Kennedy crafts compelling narratives for young adults, delving into themes of adolescence and identity with a voice lauded for its authenticity and empathy. His writing is celebrated for its keen ability to capture the complexities of growing up, offering readers engaging stories that resonate deeply with their own experiences. Through his work, Kennedy provides profound insights into the lives of young people, exploring universal aspects of love, friendship, and self-discovery. His distinctive approach ensures his stories are not only relatable but also offer a significant literary exploration of the youthful journey.
