Interview Tom W. Miller

by

Jaxine Daniels

1) Why do you write thrillers?

I've always loved to read thrillers. I want to write books that people can't put down, that make them lose sleep.

2) How long have you been writing, Tom?

I've been writing fiction for about five years now. Before that, I wrote mainly nonfiction essays. I was a history major in college.

3) What is your favorite book that you’ve written?

The Clone Shopping Network is my first novel, so I'd have to give that one the nod.

4) What is your favorite book that you’ve read?

The World According to Garp by John Irving. I love Irving's quirkiness and his humor. His books have definitely influenced my writing. My favorite thriller authors are Dean Koontz, Jeffrey Deaver and John Sanford.

5) What made you write The Clone Shopping Network?

I'd always loved to read novels, and I wanted to try my hand at writing one. Cloning was big news at the time, so I thought it would be a good subject. I started reading all the cloning books I could get my hands on, and the story evolved from this research.

6) Have you ever written anything other than thrillers?

Not yet.

7) If not, are you interested in doing so?

Definitely.

8) What would it be?

I'd like to write an historical novel and really put my history major to use. Someday, I will also write a pure mainstream novel.

9) If you could do anything that you’ve never done before, what would it be?

I'd buy an RV and drive to California via the Grand Canyon. I'm sure this answer would shock my wife, but I find I'm becoming more adventurous as I age.

10) Tell us a little about your "normal" day

I wake up at 4:45 and spend two hours at the computer writing or doing book-related things. As you might imagine, it's very quiet at that time and I can get a lot done. Then it's off to work. I spend the late afternoons and evenings with my wife and kids, then it's off to bed about 10:00.

11) If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would it be?

Jesus Christ.

12) If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you like to have with you. Which of your characters do you want with you? Why?

First, I'd like a set of encyclopedias. I figure that would keep me busy for a while. Second, I'd want one of those long, gas lighters. I'm not a survivalist type, so I'd need a way to cook my food while I'm learning to make fire. Third, and along the same lines, a Hampton Inn would be nice. If I had to choose one of my characters to be stranded with me, I would choose Amanda Kline. She's smart, resourceful, and sexy.