In this episode, I’m joined by my good friend and thriller author Nicole Annbury to talk about what it really takes to write a psychological thriller that kills. (all puns intended!) We take a deep dive into the craft behind her newest novel, The Signature Line, and explore why the psychology is the story.

This is a must-listen for writers interested in psychological thriller writing, and character-driven storytelling, as well as readers who love dark, emotionally layered thrillers.

We also discuss:

• Her latest release, The Signature Line (out February 13th, 2026)
• How to build psychological tension through character
• Plotting vs. pantsing (and plantsing!)
• Crafting endings that stay with the reader
• Writing through hard seasons and pacing creativity
• The power of writing community and support

About the book:

The Signature Line is a psychological thriller about Dr. Carmella Carey, a feminist therapist who runs a controversial program called "Year of Self" while hiding dark secrets. When she promotes the program on TV, it angers Dylan Foster, a men's rights advocate seeking his ex-girlfriend who joined Dr. Carey's program. As Dylan's threats escalate and a serial killer begins targeting the women in the program, both characters find themselves on a collision course. This page-turning thriller examines the ultimate price of control and the dangerous consequences when ideology turns deadly.

About Nicole:

Nicole Annbury is a writer of dark fiction in the thriller, psychological suspense, and mystery genres. She currently lives in Indiana with her husband and three cats. When she's not writing, she enjoys nature walks, true crime documentaries, reality TV viewing and going on drives with her husband.

For more information about upcoming releases, go to her website: nicoleannbury.com

Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com

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Website: micamerrillrice.com

Instagram: @micamriceauthor

Facebook: @micamriceauthor

TikTok: @micamriceauthor

"Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ

In this episode of Traditionally Self-Published, we sit down with professional audiobook narrator Robb Moreira to talk about what it really takes to bring stories to life in audio—and what authors and aspiring narrators need to know before stepping behind the mic. Robb has recorded for authors like Rebecca Yarros, James Patterson, Megan Lally, Frieda McFadden, Mica Merrill Rice, and so many more!

Robb shares how he got started in audiobook narration, the project that helped define his career, and why audiobook narration is about far more than having a good voice. We also dive into the realities of audiobook production, self-narration, and how AI is impacting the voice narration space.

We Discuss:

• How Robb got started in audiobook narration
• The book that helped put him on the map
• What makes a manuscript work (or struggle) in audio
• Why audiobook narration is performance, not just reading
• When authors should, and shouldn't, narrate their own books
• The realities of production, stamina, and consistency
• AI narration: limitations and listener trust

We conclude with the INK STARTER LIGHTNING ROUND and Robb’s 5 Best Tips for Authors and Aspiring Narrators.

About Robb:

Robb Moreira is a Bilingual Voice Actor and audiobook narrator with over a decade of experience behind the microphone. With 7 years of Conservatory Acting training and over 10 years of stage experience, Robb was looking for something different. A chance conversation with a fellow actor changed his theater trajectory to one of voiceover and Robb never looked back.

With over 200 audiobook credits and several voice award nominations (and wins!), Robb continues to venture further into the audiobook world and sees a very busy future in the genre. Keep an eye out for future titles!

Where to find Robb:

Socials: @robbmorieravo

Website: https://www.robbmoreiravo.com/

You can also catch his voice on audiobooks via most major retailers!

Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com

Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter

Website: micamerrillrice.com

Instagram: @micamriceauthor

Facebook: @micamriceauthor

TikTok: @micamriceauthor

"Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ

In this episode of Traditionally Self-Published, we discuss Creating the Rules, a women's fiction novel by Ania Ray, and explore why women writers thrive when they choose community over isolation.

Ania shares the inspiration behind the book, her journey as an indie author, and how building intentional writing spaces changes the creative process.

We Discuss:

• • Her latest release, Creating the Rules, the 3rd and final book in the Cromwell Rules series
  • Her process for writing the craft
  • The Quill and Cup Writing group and the importance of community in this industry
  • We conclude with the INK STARTER LIGHTNING ROUND and Ania’s 5 Best Tips for Authors!

About Ania:

Ania Ray is a mama, author, and CEO of Quill & Cup, a fiercely supportive community of women who are committed to prioritizing progress on their novel and making rest a non-negotiable. When she’s not curating curriculum, hosting events, or teaching research-backed mindset tools to empower women, she’s hanging out with her family. To fill her cup, catch her hiking, planning her next trip, or enjoying a delicious meal with loved ones.

The Cromwell Rules is her debut women’s fiction trilogy, where each woman must face the worst of herself before she becomes the hero of her story.

Where to find Ania Ray:

Instagram: @theaniassey

Books: https://www.thecromwellrules.com

Writing group, Quill & Cup: www.quillandcup.com

Ania's podcast : Her Life, Her Rules

Have a publishing question? Email me at mica@micamerrillrice.com

Subscribe to The Night Writer Newsletter

Website: micamerrillrice.com

Instagram: @micamriceauthor

Facebook: @micamriceauthor

TikTok: @micamriceauthor

"Traditionally Self-Published" theme music is written by Landon Bailey and performed and produced by LNDÖ