Family guide, new release
The emotional and often overwhelming journey of families and loved ones caught in the chaos of addiction.
About me
Tommy Ricks
An author, recovery advocate, and speaker whose work blends powerful storytelling with a deep commitment to helping others navigate life’s most difficult challenges.
Beginnings
A native New Yorker born in Queens, Tommy discovered his passion for writing at the age of 15. What began as heartfelt poetry and short stories eventually grew into screenplays and long-form storytelling, each piece reflecting his natural ability to capture emotion and connect with readers through authentic, thought-provoking narratives.
A first book
In 2005, Tommy published his debut book, Before I Die: The Biography of a Woman Living with HIV, a powerful nonfiction account that explored the life of a woman facing the realities and stigma of living with HIV. The book reflected Tommy’s interest in telling stories that give voice to people navigating difficult life circumstances.
Into fiction
Alongside his nonfiction work, Tommy ventured into fiction with the Bernard Miller series, a collection of crime thrillers that draw readers into a world of suspense, complex investigations, and high-stakes drama designed to keep them turning pages late into the night.
A personal mission
In recent years, Tommy’s writing has expanded to include a deeply personal mission: helping individuals and families understand addiction and recovery. Having faced his own battle with addiction, he understands firsthand the emotional pain, confusion, and uncertainty families often experience when a loved one is struggling.
His latest book, When Someone You Love Struggles with Addiction: A Family Guide to Talking, Setting Boundaries, and Supporting Addiction Recovery, was written to help families navigate these difficult conversations with compassion, clarity, and strength.
Today
Tommy is also the creator of The Inner Fix, a platform dedicated to real conversations about addiction, mental health, and recovery. Through his writing, speaking, and digital outreach, he is committed to helping people understand that healing is possible and that no one has to face these struggles alone.
Today, Tommy continues to write, speak, and share messages of hope, encouraging individuals and families to find clarity, courage, and compassion on the path toward recovery.
The books
Books by Tommy Ricks
A Bernard Miller novel
Ex-NYPD detective Bernard Miller wakes up in his own home, disoriented and in pain.
Biography
A biography of a woman living with HIV: Diamond “Dee” McGee’s story of heartbreak and strength.
Coming soon
Echoes of the Past, a Bernard Miller novel
Bernard Miller, an ex-NYPD detective, wakes up in his own home, disoriented and in pain, and the past he thought he’d buried starts to surface.
Testimonials
What they say
Reviews of Echoes of the Past
From the first page, Echoes of the Past grabs hold and doesn’t let go. Ricks paints a vivid picture of New York’s underbelly while weaving a complex, suspenseful plot that keeps you guessing until the very end. Bernard Miller is a hero you’ll root for, flaws and all.
Tommy Ricks delivers a story that’s as intense as it is human. Bernard Miller’s struggles as a father, widower, and investigator are beautifully layered in this page-turning crime novel. Echoes of the Past is the kind of book you can’t put down, and won’t forget.
