Ep 247: Own Voice Disablity Rep with Mariah Ankenman and Ann Why-not

March 30, 2025March 30, 2025 Becky

In this episode of Buzzing About Romance, Becky and Jenni welcome two powerhouse romance authors—Ann Whynot and Mariah Ankenman—who are redefining what inclusive love stories look like. These authors are trailblazers in writing authentic disability representation in romance novels, each bringing their own lived experiences to the page. Together, they celebrate and spotlight characters with physical disabilities, chronic illnesses, and neurodivergent identities, including autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about own-voices romance, representation, and love without limits.

Meet Mariah:

Bestselling author Mariah Ankenman lives in the beautiful Rocky Mountains with her two rambunctious daughters and loving husband, who provides ample inspiration for her heart-stopping heroes.

Mariah loves to lose herself in a world of words. Her favorite thing about writing is when she can make someone’s day a little brighter with one of her books. To learn more about Mariah and her books, follow her on social media or sign up for her newsletter.

Connect with Mariah:

Newsletter: https://mariahankenman.com/newsletter-sign-up/
Website: https://mariahankenman.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariahankenman/
Tiktok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMJcfWEvW/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mariahankenmanauthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/mariahankenman
Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/mariahankenmana/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/mariah-ankenman
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15251057.Mariah_Ankenman
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/~/e/B01DUNU4AY

Meet Ann:

Ann Whynot is pursuing her lifelong dream of becoming a published author, and has been thrilled to work with Penny Reid’s Smartypants Romance. She is a voracious reader and book collector, and used book stores are her kryptonite. She also is passionate about video games, crafting, baking, laughter, and travel, especially to Sweden. She lives with her family and two cats on the Canadian east coast, and is inspired by both the forest and sea.