Ginger Scott: Don’t Let Fear Stand in Your Way

Ginger Scott is a USA Today, Wall Street Journal, and Amazon bestselling author from Peoria, Arizona. She has also been nominated for the Goodreads Choice and RWA Rita Awards. She is the author of several young and new adult romances, including bestsellers Cry Baby, The Hard Count, A Boy Like You, This is Falling, and Wild Reckless.

In this interview, she shares the emotional, passionate, and personal sides of publishing.

I wasn’t a romance reader until your Falling series. Now I’m hooked! What are your thoughts on bending the rules of genre?

There’s no right or wrong way to follow the author path. If a story calls to you, follow it. Love the genre you’re working in. I love romance, so no matter what I write, there’s a love story thread. My YA psychological thriller (Cowboy Villain Damsel Duel) has a slight magical realism twist with a secondary love story. I’m attracted to romantasy, magical realism, and dabble in nonfiction. With my background in journalism, I love telling true stories about people, places, conflicts, and history. I wouldn’t mind devoting time and ink to those that lodge themselves into my heart.

Your novels include steamy scenes. But the sensual tension in them is what deepens a reader’s emotional response to falling in love. Is this true of romance novels you read?

Yes. Some of my favorite authors are masters of the slow burn. I love tension at the beginning of a relationship as much as the bond that grows throughout.

Have you considered writing for the screen? A Rom-Com maybe?

Oh, this is the dream—to have a movie or series. I’ve thought of trying to turn one of my novels into a screenplay to shop it around. So many stories I want to write… and so little time.

You’ve received several accolades as an author. What was your reaction the first time you won a book award?

It’s easy to slip into imposter syndrome mode. Recognition of my work was validating in a way I never expected. It’s a little pat on the back saying, “You’re good at this; keep going.”

Writing can be a lonely endeavor. Where do you find support for doing what you love?

I have a very supportive family. My husband is the one who convinced me to quit my day job and write full-time. He had faith in my success well before I did. In my day-to-day, I lean on colleagues for support. The romance community is a powerful and positive place. I often connect with author friends in person, by text, or video calls.

I know first-hand about the “R” Word (Rejection). What would you advise aspiring writers when the inner critic won’t be quiet?

Rejection is hard. I let fear stand in my way for too long. I’ve been published for over a decade, and harshly critical reviews of my work still sting, but I’m better at compartmentalizing them. They are perspectives, not fact. Most rejection in publishing isn’t tied to a work’s worth, but to timing, finances, personal preference, brand—what someone feels confident selling. The beauty of today’s market is the many ways writers can take their career. Indie/self-publishing removes many barriers. I took my book to market hoping to find a handful of readers. I found thousands.

Your passion for sports ties into your novels. Characters have exceptional strength, not just athletically, but internally, with scenarios that inspire readers. Is that intentional? How is research part of the process?

This is very intentional. I love sports because of the drama, but more so, it’s a setting for adversity. I love real-life stories where people surprise the status quo and overcome. Research is a favorite part of the process. I’ve interviewed trainers, coaches, players, para-athletes, doctors, detectives—you name it.

Your Falling Series takes me back to college days. How often does personal experience play into your novels?

It plays a huge role. One scene in This is Falling is based on my first week as a college freshman. The ice-breaker scene—a little embellished—was from experience, and I hold on to moments others share with me.

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After publishing so many books, how do you come up with fresh ideas that keep your readers wanting more?

I have a bag stuffed with random notes on receipts, notebooks, torn papers from envelopes with ideas on them. I think of stories constantly and kick myself for those I don’t write down.

You have signing events lined up in various cities this year. How do you find time and energy for family, research, writing, publishing, marketing, and travel?

This is a mystery (LOL). I enjoy meeting readers and connecting with fellow authors. I need that to fill my cup. So, I make the time.

One of your upcoming engagements is the Arizona Author Book Festival, April 27, 2025, a fundraising event at the SEEDs for Autism campus. As a featured speaker, what key message will you relay to the Arizona writing community?

I’m looking forward to this event! The best message I hope to relay is to not let fear stand in the way of your story.