In this episode of the Heart of Writing Podcast, we explore what makes characters unforgettable: ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances. Host J.E. Nickerson dives into how fear, love, and morality shape character decisions, why the moral gray zone drives tension, and how writers can create emotionally rich, human characters. Plus, discover a free Character Profile Checklist to deepen your own storytelling and bring your characters to life.
Tag Archives: writing tips
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.
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.
Heart of Writing S2 E8 Writing Endings That Resonate
“Discover how to craft powerful endings in your writing that leave a lasting impact on readers. In this episode, we explore techniques, emotional resonance, and storytelling strategies that make your conclusions unforgettable.”
Heart of Writing S2 E7 Writing Characters with Quiet Strength
Exploring characters with quiet strength—the ones who act with courage, resilience, and subtle power, shaping their worlds in ways big and small. Dive into the psychology, the storytelling, and what makes these understated heroes unforgettable.
Why Headings Matter: How to Make Your WordPress Articles Easier to Read (and Easier to Find)
Learn why headings matter in WordPress. Discover how to use H1, H2, and H3 tags to boost SEO, improve readability, and make your blog posts easier to scan.
Heart of Writing S2 E6 Creating Tension by Putting Your Character Where They Don’t Belong
“Heart of Writing S2E6 explores creating tension by placing your characters in the wrong place at the wrong time. Master suspense in your story!”
S2 E5 just because they can doesn’t mean they should
Heart of Writing S2 E5 – Just Because They Can Doesn’t Mean They Should
In this episode of Heart of Writing, we explore the fine line between what characters can do and what they should do in storytelling. Learn how thoughtful choices, consequences, and moral tension can make your fiction more compelling and believable. Perfect for writers looking to deepen character motivation and craft stories that resonate.
Heart of Writing S2 E3 Five Lessons Writers Can Learn from Legal Thrillers
Heart of Writing S2 E3 – Five Lessons Writers Can Learn from Legal Thrillers
In this episode of Heart of Writing, we dive into the gripping world of legal thrillers and uncover five key lessons writers can apply to their own storytelling. From crafting tension and high-stakes drama to creating compelling characters and plot twists, discover techniques that keep readers hooked from the first page to the last. Perfect for fiction writers looking to sharpen their suspense, pacing, and narrative skills.
The Reader’s Contract: Suspense, Trust, and Reward
Every story begins with an unspoken promise to the reader. Learn how to create suspense, plant fair clues, and reward your audience with satisfying reveals—featuring lessons from Insomnia, The Thomas Crown Affair, The Bone Collector, Se7en, and When Time Ran Out.
We Are Wise Thinkers 