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Kennedy Ryan tells PEOPLE she feels a responsibility to uplift the work of other Black authors

As a popular author with a platform, Ryan hopes to make space for authors like her, who share the depth and joy of Black romances with a wide audience

"Seeing Black women loved well and out loud and properly, that is the kind of joy we need right now," Ryan says

Kennedy Ryan is celebrating the work of her fellow Black authors.

The contemporary romance author spoke with PEOPLE at Hollywood Confidential 's private dinner celebrating iconic girlfriends in TV, film and media at Redbird on Sept. 30 in Los Angeles. Ryan, a New York Times bestselling author, says she feels a certain responsibility as a popular author with a platform.

Ryan tells PEOPLE she feels an internal "pre

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