Every book has a story behind the story. Today, I’m sitting down with Allena Scott, the mind behind Fire Court, to talk about the inspiration, the writing process, and the journey of bringing this book to life. From their biggest challenges to their proudest moments, this interview has plenty of stories and insights for readers and aspiring writers alike.

Let’s dive in!

1. Tell us a little about yourself.

Hi! I’m Allena Scott, a Sagittarius and multi-genre author based in Tennessee. I have a passion for exploring a wide array of genres. From fantasy, dark romance, and dark thriller romance to motorcycle club romance, paranormal romance, contemporary romance, and so much more.

My debut book, Fire Court, is a magical fantasy story. There’s no limit to the stories I want to tell. When I’m not writing, you can find me binge-watching movies and TV shows, baking sweet treats, or spending time with my husband, Christian.

I’m obsessed with all things fall, college football (Go Tennessee Vols!), and snowy days. I also have a soft spot for reptiles, dogs, and cats. Basically, if it has scales or fur, I’m in! My favourite colours are black and pink, and yes, I totally believe they’re a vibe.

I’m a huge mental health advocate and a firm believer in leading with kindness and compassion. As someone who struggles with mental health daily, writing has become my escape and my therapy. It helps me process, heal, and breathe.

Through my characters, especially the ones who face darkness and find a way through, I get to explore resilience, strength, and hope. And my biggest wish is that readers find pieces of that healing in my stories, too. I truly love connecting with my readers! So don’t be shy! Reach out, say hi, and let’s talk books, characters, or anything else on your mind!

Here’s a fun fact: I recently discovered I have a fear of fear. Sounds a bit wild, right? But it’s true...I dislike the sensation of fear so much that I actually fear the feeling itself!

2. You have lots of loves in life. Ever felt overwhelmed finding time for everything?

Definitely! I have so many passions and creative outlets, and it can feel like a juggling act sometimes. I try to be intentional with my time, especially making space for quiet moments with my husband and our dog. That’s my reset button. It’s not always perfectly balanced, but I’ve learned to give myself grace and just enjoy the chaos a little. I love baking, going thrifting for cozy or unique finds, and yes… people watching (aka character research—it totally counts, right?). It’s all about finding little moments that fill your creative cup.

3. Right, OK, pitch your book in one or two sentences.

In a kingdom ruled by elemental magic and ruthless royal courts, a fire-wielding outcast must uncover the truth behind the attacks on her and the courts while navigating deadly secrets, political betrayal, and a forbidden childhood love that could ignite a war. Fire Court is a sizzling fantasy romance where power burns, passion blazes, and nothing is as it seems.

4. What kind of readers would love this book?

Those who devour magical realms filled with danger, power struggles, and heart-pounding romance will love reading it.

5. Now, let’s get a little personal. What’s the story behind your story?

My writing journey began during a particularly difficult time in my life. While dealing with cyberbullying and harassment, I turned to storytelling as a way to cope and find release. That’s how my debut novel, Fire Court, was born. What started as a personal escape quickly became a deep passion for building characters, worlds, and stories that connect with others.

6. And how much do you feel writing helped you?

Writing has helped me in more ways than I can count. It’s a creative outlet, a mental health lifeline, and honestly… a perfectly acceptable place to trauma dump under the disguise of plot development. (My characters suffer, so I don’t have to…kidding... kind of.) It lets me explore emotions, build worlds, and work through things in a way that feels safe and cathartic. Paired with baking, thrifting, and people watching for “character research,” it keeps my soul cozy and my imagination thriving.

7. Lovely. Every book has that one scene or character that sticks with the author. What’s yours?

I absolutely love where Fire Court ends with that jaw-dropping cliffhanger because it leaves readers breathless, questioning everything, and desperate for more. That final moment flips the story on its head, cracks open the world even wider, and sets the stage for something even darker, deeper, and more dangerous. As a writer, there's nothing more satisfying than knowing I’ve lit a fire in readers that won’t go out until the next book.

8. Hahaha, I love cliffhangers! What part of this book gave you the hardest time?

Building the world of Fire Court was the most different, and honestly, the most challenging part of writing this book for me. I’m so used to diving deep into characters and emotions, but creating an entire kingdom with its own magic system, politics, history, and court dynamics pushed me in a whole new way. It took time, research, and a lot of trial and error, but watching that world come to life, flawed, fiery, and full of secrets, was incredibly rewarding. Now it feels just as real to me as the characters themselves.

9. What’s one weird or unexpected thing you googled while writing this book?

Can magical fire be controlled with emotions? To build the connection between my heroine’s feelings and her devastating power.

10. Now, I’m curious. Can it be?

Yes. Alinta’s fire magic is deeply tied to her emotions. Her power isn’t just something she uses; it’s something she feels. When her emotions run high, especially with something as strong as grief or rage.

One powerful moment for her was when she discovered her favourite part of the Fire Court in decay. A place that once brought her peace and joy, now lifeless. That surge of pain and anger overwhelmed her, and her magic reacted before she could stop it. Fire poured out of her, not in destruction, but in raw expression, grief made tangible. It’s moments like this that show just how deeply connected her power is to her heart, and how learning control isn’t just about magic, it’s about healing, too.

11. And how has this indie publishing journey been for you?

Publishing Fire Court as an indie author has been a wild, emotional ride. Equal parts terrifying and exhilarating. I built this world from the ground up, handling everything from the story to the smallest details. While imposter syndrome and doubt tried to steal the joy, nothing compares to the moment I held my book in my hands. It hasn’t been perfect, but it’s been real, raw, and full of heart, and sharing it with readers who feel it like I do makes every step worth it.

12. Now, for all the aspiring indie authors out there. What’s one piece of advice you wish someone had given you?

Don't edit while writing! You're not the editor. You're the author. If you edit while writing, it will bever get finished.

13. Ohkayzz, and where can readers find you and your book?

My Linktree has all the essential links: https://linktr.ee/authorallenascott. You can conveniently find me on all popular social media platforms.

Fire Court is available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3ZIFIzK

Signed copies and sprayed-edge versions are also available from me. (details in Linktree)

P.S.: What’s your go-to writing snack or ritual?

Always energy drinks. All day longgg!

And that’s a wrap.

Want to see more indie author stories? Stay tuned…