Looking for your next read in 2025? These standout books—written by current and former police officers—span gritty fiction, real-world memoirs, and professional insights that offer a rare look behind the badge.
From laugh-out-loud anecdotes to eye-opening insights, these reads promise to be your perfect off-duty companions. Got a book suggestion? Email editor@police1.com.
Broken Badges: Enzo by Rod Scott
In this fast-paced crime thriller, LAPD detective Colt Johnson goes undercover as “Enzo” to infiltrate a powerful syndicate known as La Ciudad. As he uncovers hidden truths about the criminal underworld—and the shadowy organization that saved him—he’s forced to confront deep conspiracies, personal identity, and betrayal on both sides of the law.
All You Can Handle by Bob Brodnik
All You Can Handle is a powerful memoir by retired San Francisco police officer Bob Brodnik, who reflects on the murder of his father in the line of duty and the decades of personal and professional turmoil that followed. Through grief, addiction, and a city in crisis, Brodnik’s story reveals the enduring weight of loss and the deep resolve required to serve with integrity and heart.
October Strong by Allyn T. Goodrich
October Strong is a fictionalized retelling of the 2017 Las Vegas mass shooting, written by Las Vegas SWAT officer Allyn Goodrich. Through the intersecting stories of first responders, veterans, nurses and civilians, the novel captures the courage, sacrifice, and humanity of those who answered the call in one of America’s darkest moments.
Fort Worth Cops: The Inside Stories by Kevin Foster, James Williams and Kathy Sanders
Fort Worth True Blue offers more than 100 real-life stories from two veteran Fort Worth police officers and a longtime newspaper reporter, chronicling decades of crime, crisis, and character from the 1950s to today. Covering everything from gangsters and serial killers to daily patrol calls and department leadership, these accounts provide a gritty, honest look at law enforcement. Woven throughout is the enduring faith and commitment that kept these officers in service, revealing the deeper purpose behind the badge.
Law Enforcement: A First Responder’s Guide for Crisis, Stress and Survival by Dr. Jack Lucas
This 2025 guide offers law enforcement and first responders scripture-based insights and practical strategies for managing stress, crisis, and survival in the field. Combining biblical wisdom with frontline experience, it’s a valuable resource for maintaining resilience and well-being on the job.
The Land of Broken Toys: Kosovo by Michael Kell Mahoney
In this gripping novel, disillusioned NYPD officer JB Byrne takes a UN policing mission in post-war Kosovo with plans to save money and leave the force — but finds himself pulled back into a fight for justice. As he confronts war crimes, corruption and his own fading ideals, JB risks everything to stop a violent cell and reclaim his purpose, even if it means sacrificing his future and newfound love.
Past the Uniform: an inside look at the human side of being a police officer by Marty Katz
Past the Uniform is an autobiographical look at one officer’s early years in law enforcement, offering firsthand stories from patrol, narcotics, SWAT, and more. Blending insight, grit, and humor, the book serves as both a guide for aspiring officers and a reflective read for veterans and civilians alike—inviting readers to see the human side of policing beyond the badge.
The Other Side of the Badge by Russell Ford, Ph.D
Excerpt from Reviewer Joel Schultz: “Ford’s insight into the stresses and trauma of the work, with gripping recollections of horrific scenes, provides hope and resources as he describes his own wrestling with the harshness of experiences. As I read his account of his first colleague’s line of duty death – a ruthless murder - I recognized the officer as the first academy graduate of mine whose funeral I attended. Working in the mountains of Colorado was another connection to Ford’s story, but any officer can relate. Of the many books about police work and about loved ones who need some insight, The Other Side of the Badge is a healthy blend of both for any audience.”
