Why Kennedy Ryan Didn’t Want “Score” Character’s Bisexuality to be ‘a Footnote’ (Exclusive)

**Kennedy Ryan Explores Bisexuality and Mental Health in Latest Novel ‘Score’**

Best-selling romance author Kennedy Ryan has delved into complex themes in her new book, ‘Score’, the second instalment of her Hollywood Renaissance series. Set against the backdrop of the vibrant Harlem Renaissance, the story follows Verity, an award-winning screenwriter who reunites with her former lover—a world-renowned musician—after a decade apart. Their journey is not just one of rekindling romance but also of navigating personal challenges and communal history.

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Ryan emphasised the significance of her character Verity’s bisexuality within the narrative. “I wanted it to be very clear, this is someone who is attracted to women, who has been in relationships with women, and ultimately partners with a man,” she stated. Ryan’s intention was to present a character whose identity is unapologetically multifaceted, and to portray the realities of bisexuality in a nuanced way.

The theme of Verity’s bisexuality is woven intricately into the story’s fabric, reflecting Ryan’s commitment to representing diverse experiences. “This is a highly intersectional story,” she explained, noting that Verity also grapples with her identity as a Black woman living with bipolar disorder. For Ryan, exploring these intersections presents both challenges and strengths that resonate deeply throughout the novel.

Moreover, as the narrative unfolds, Ryan hopes to challenge conventional relationships. “I wanted to explore what physical intimacy looks like for a bisexual woman in a relationship with a man,” she said. By doing so, Ryan aims to spark discussions that transcend traditional heteronormative paradigms. Her goal is to illustrate how love and relationships can manifest differently, depending on each individual’s background and experiences.

A strong advocate against what she terms ‘bi-erasure’, Ryan voiced her concerns about the often superficial treatment of bisexual characters in literature. “You often see bisexuality treated as a footnote in storytelling,” she remarked, highlighting the importance of authentically depicting a character’s fluid attractions. “I wanted to make it undeniable that Verity remains attracted to both women and men, regardless of her current relationship status.”

‘Score’ is not just a romance but a rich narrative filled with depth and authenticity that mirrors the complexity of life itself. The emotional stakes run high as Verity and her partner struggle to reconcile their past with their present, all while working on a biopic that could change the trajectory of their careers. The context of the Harlem Renaissance—the cultural movement marked by a burst of artistic expression and social change—serves as a dynamic backdrop, adding layers to their story.

Ryan’s writing also tackles the often-stigmatized topic of mental health. Verity’s diagnosis of bipolar disorder allows Ryan to shine a light on the realities faced by those living with mental illness, portraying the vigilance required to maintain one’s mental state. “It’s about understanding mental health and loving someone who is navigating those challenges,” Ryan elaborated, underscoring a topic that resonates with many of her readers.

Through her work, Ryan seeks to break down barriers surrounding the discourse on mental health, aiming to de-stigmatise conversations often seen as taboo. “Mental health is a core aspect of many of my narratives,” she pointed out, reflecting a commitment to providing representation for readers who may see their own struggles reflected in her characters.

Currently, ‘Score’ is available in bookstores, continuing Ryan’s legacy of producing impactful stories that resonate with a diverse audience. The response to her previous works has been overwhelmingly positive, paving the way for an increasing demand for authentic representations of love, identity, and resilience.

As readers dive into Verity’s journey in ‘Score’, they are invited not only to experience a captivating romance but also to engage with profound themes of identity, love, and mental health. Kennedy Ryan’s exploration of these topics signals a positive shift in contemporary romance literature, where diverse voices and experiences are finally being acknowledged and celebrated.