Category Archives: articles

06 Break In A Samantha Leary Short Story

Sarah’s quiet life is shattered when a desperate, injured woman appears on her doorstep during a storm. Alone and terrified, Sarah must navigate fear, survival, and the courage to protect another in a world where danger lurks just outside her door. Break In is a gripping, atmospheric short story set in the chilling, psychological world of Samantha Leary.

Crime Time with Samantha Leary —The Cost of being seen

In a world where attention feels like protection, one woman’s need to be seen becomes her most dangerous vulnerability. Samantha Leary watches as the line between visibility and safety disappears — and the consequences are fatal.

The Challenge of Writing Psychological Thrillers – A Writer’s Perspective

Writing a psychological thriller isn’t just storytelling—it’s a delicate balancing act. Discover the perspectives, pacing, and mental gymnastics required to craft a suspenseful, gripping story.

The Mountain Chapter: Losing Yourself in Your Own Book

Discover the psychological intensity behind the “mountain chapter” in novel writing. Learn how to navigate high-stakes scenes, balance plot and emotion, and use line editing to create chapters that anchor your story. Includes a practical worksheet for authors.

Why Formulaic Writing Holds Your Readers

Discover why formulaic writing isn’t a flaw—it’s a storytelling strength. Using examples from CSI, NCIS, Eddie and Freddy’s Adventures and the upcoming Samantha Leary thriller series, author John Edward Nickerson explores how structure and creative freedom can coexist to keep readers hooked for years.

The Art of Pacing in Psychological Thrillers: How to Keep Readers Hooked Without Burning Them Out

Learn how to master pacing in slow-burn psychological thrillers. Discover why ebb and flow in tension is key to gripping storytelling—and see it in action with the upcoming Samantha Leary series, Murder House (2026).