Why Kennedy Ryan Took 6 Years to Write the “Reel” Sequel, “Score ”(Exclusive)

Acclaimed author Kennedy Ryan has released her latest novel, “Score,” marking the second entry in her successful “Hollywood Renaissance” romance series. This long-awaited sequel follows the tumultuous romance between screenwriter Verity Hill and musician Wright “Monk” Bellamy, who find themselves face-to-face again on the set of a Harlem Renaissance biopic. However, it took Ryan a lengthy six years to complete this installment, a delay that she has clarified in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE.

Ryan self-published the series opener, “Reel,” in 2021, and soon after announced plans for its sequel. “I was eager to jump back into Monk and Verity’s world,” she explained, recalling the early excitement surrounding the project. However, this enthusiasm was tempered when Ryan received a book deal for her “Skyland” trilogy, which took precedence over “Score.” “Once I got that deal, the timeline shifted significantly as I committed the next three years to releasing those books,” Ryan noted.

In addition to managing her writing schedule, Ryan has been involved in adapting “Before I Let Go,” another work of hers, into a television pilot for Peacock. Juggling multiple creative projects, she found herself needing to compartmentalise her work. “I had to find a way to separate the two worlds in my mind while navigating the unique demands that television writing imposes,” she commented on her busy schedule.

“Score” delves into complex themes, including issues of sexuality and mental health, which Ryan aimed to approach with sensitivity. One of the central characters, Verity, lives with bipolar disorder, a choice that Ryan made intentionally to help dismantle the stigma associated with mental illness. “I’ve noticed that many individuals are not diagnosed until later in life,” she shared. “This inspired me to illustrate how effective therapy and proper diagnosis can profoundly shape one’s life.”

Ryan has a talent for integrating weightier subjects into her romantic narratives. While “Score” features romance and passion, it also addresses more profound societal themes. “Some scenes critically explore the effects of toxic masculinity and the way societal expectations can influence the dynamics of intimacy,” she explained. Ryan is particularly interested in how such dynamics play out in a bisexual relationship, questioning assumptions and conventions regarding sexual identity.

Another key aspect of “Score” is its exploration of the realistic evolution of relationships. Ryan holds a belief that a truly compelling second-chance romance requires understanding the reasons behind an initial breakup. “If readers are to believe in a deep, soulmate connection, they need clarity on what caused the split to begin with,” she remarked. In Verity and Monk’s case, the years apart have prompted significant personal growth, particularly for Verity, who has gained insights into her identity and aspirations as a writer.

Ryan emphasised the necessity for her characters to experience growth through their time apart. “They needed those years for maturation and self-discovery,” she asserted. “Verity’s journey is about finding the life she dreams of while reconciling her past, including her mental health and artistry.”

With “Score” officially available in bookstores, Ryan’s dedication to crafting a nuanced narrative promises to resonate with readers.

The author’s ability to weave together heartfelt romance with pressing societal issues has marked her as a significant voice in contemporary literature. Readers can now enjoy a tale that not only captivates but also challenges perceptions within relationships. As Ryan continues her artistic journey, fans and newcomers alike are certain to find much to appreciate in her work.