Kennedy Ryan is an American author who writes romance novels. Her books focus on modern romance stories and include topics about important social issues and characters from different backgrounds. She was the first African American person to win a RITA Award for romantic fiction. She is also an activist and the founder of a nonprofit organization that raises awareness about autism.

Early life and education

Ryan studied journalism at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She wrote for non-profit organizations and did non-fiction ghost writing before she started writing fiction.

Career

Ryan writes contemporary romance novels that show deep emotions and discuss important social topics. Her "Hoops" series follows the lives of professional basketball players and includes their rights. Her "All the King's Men" series was acquired by The Traveling Picture Show Company (TPSC).

In 2019, Ryan became the first Black author to win the RITA Award from the Romance Writers of America for Best Contemporary Romance. She received this award for her novel Long Shot, which was inspired by events involving football player Ray Rice. This award is considered one of the most important honors in the romance writing field.

In 2023, her popular novel Before I Let Go was being developed by Peacock, a part of UCP and Universal Television.

Personal life

Ryan is also known for her efforts to help others, especially by raising awareness about autism, because of her own experiences with her son. She has said that Shonda Rhimes inspired her writing. Other authors who have influenced her work include Tiffanie DeBartolo, Alyssa Cole, L. J. Shen, Nana Malone, Dylan Allen, Emma Scott, Kate Stewart, Amy Harmon, Helen Hoang, Andie Christopher, and Talia Hibbert.