Author Archives: J.E. Nickerson

Heart of Writing S2 E4 The power of Subtext

Subtext is the hidden heartbeat of a story—the thoughts, feelings, and tensions that simmer beneath the surface. In this episode, we explore how writers use what’s unsaid to create depth, suspense, and emotional power.

Eddie and Freddy Celebrate Thanksgiving NEW BOOK LAUNCH

Eddie and Freddy Celebrate Thanksgiving – Join Eddie and his playful puppy, Freddy, as they discover the joy and excitement of Thanksgiving! From helping Mommy prepare the feast to sharing laughter with their friend Holly next door, this heartwarming story is full of family, friendship, and festive fun. Perfect for young readers, this charming picture book celebrates gratitude, kindness, and the magic of togetherness.

Every World Has Rules: How to create worlds that feel real to your characters

Writers know that characters and plot aren’t enough to make a story feel real. Every story world operates under its own rules, and breaking them without explanation pulls your audience right out of the story.

In this article, we explore how two very different franchises—Law & Order: SVU and John Wick—show us the power of rules in storytelling. From moral codes to universe-specific logic, we break down why rules anchor characters, guide audience expectations, and make tension meaningful.

Plus, we give you practical exercises to define the rules of your own story worlds and ensure your characters stay consistent, believable, and compelling.

The 30-Minute Writer: How to Make Progress on Your Book Every Day

“Discover how to make real progress on your book in just 30 minutes a day with practical tips on chapter structure, quick proofreading, and links.”

Writing Characters Who Hide Behind Their Fears

The deepest fears of your characters don’t have to be shouted from the page—in fact, they’re often most powerful when hidden. People rarely announce their insecurities; they cover them with jokes, distractions, or silence. By writing characters who mask what terrifies them, you create tension, emotional depth, and a powerful connection with your readers.

Heart of Writing S2 E2 Writing Wounded Characters

Explore the art of crafting wounded characters in fiction. Learn how to create emotionally complex, flawed, and compelling protagonists that stay with readers long after the story ends.

Now Available on Amazon—Murder House

Experience Murder House, the first book in the Samantha Leary psychological thriller series, now available on Apple Books. A dark, gripping journey into human motives and buried secrets.

Creating Tension by Putting Your Character Where They Don’t Belong

One of the most effective ways to create tension in fiction isn’t with physical danger—it’s by putting your character in a situation where they don’t fully belong. This guide explains why displacement generates suspense, provides examples across professions and social situations, and offers practical exercises to help writers craft scenes that keep readers on edge.

Not Your Stereotypical Character: Avoiding Common Stereotypes in Character Development

Dive into the art of character development without relying on clichés or stereotypes. Using examples from CSI, Criminal Record, and Criminal Minds, this guide explores how to create nuanced, compelling characters. Includes hands-on exercises and a worksheet to help you apply these techniques to your own writing.