Book List from Us, Part 1

Book List from Us, Part 1.  The Ultimate Gift Guide for Book Lovers: Stories from Law Enforcement and Military Veterans. 

As the holiday season approaches, so does that familiar question, what should I get for the people on my list? Year after year, books remain one of the most meaningful gifts you can give. They inspire, entertain, and often leave a lasting impression long after the wrapping paper is gone. But with so many titles out there, choosing the right book for that special someone can feel overwhelming.

That’s why I’ve put together a special book list that you might want to consider this year. These aren’t just any books, they’re written by people who’ve lived extraordinary lives. Most of the authors featured are retired or former law enforcement officers, and several are military veterans. Each one brings a unique perspective, sharing real-life experiences filled with courage, resilience, and heart. Their stories go far beyond the badge or uniform, giving readers a rare glimpse into the human side of service and sacrifice.

With one notable exception, the legendary Joseph Wambaugh, whose groundbreaking books helped define the modern police novel, all of these authors have been guests on the nationally syndicated Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast. Where possible, I’ve also included links to their interviews, so you can hear them tell their stories in their own words.

This isn’t a ranked list, and it’s not about bestsellers or celebrity names. Instead, it’s a curated collection of voices worth listening to. Some will move you. Others will challenge you. And a few might even change the way you see the world.

So, as you start your holiday shopping and look for something meaningful to give, consider one of these incredible reads. Whether you’re buying for a friend, a family member, or even yourself, you’re sure to find a story that captures your interest and stays with you long after the final page.

Keep scrolling, you might just discover your next favorite book.

Relentless Courage: Winning the Battle Against Frontline Trauma
by Shauna Springer, Michael Sugrue. Michael is Retired from the Walnut Creek Police Department, Ca. Michael has been a guest on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show many times, here is a link to his most recent appearance. 

A Cop’s Life: True Stories from the Heart Behind the Badge
by Randy Sutton and Cassie Wells. Randy is retired from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Randy has been on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast several times, here is a link to the most recent episode. 

The Hunting of Men, a Johnny Till Detective Novel
by Lance J. LoRusso. Lance is the author of many different books and is a Police Officer and Attorney and represents Police Officers in many different cases.  He has been on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show many times, here is a link to his most recent appearance. 

Ram One: True Crime Stories of Working Undercover and Breaking Down Doors on the SWAT Team
by Paul Milone. Paul is retired from the Omaha Police Department. Here is a link to the episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast featuring Paul. 

Bless Him: An Oral History
by Raelin Perez. Ralein is the Daughter of Retired San Diego County Sheriff's Deputy Ali Perez.  Ali was shot in what was known as the longest police shooting in the History of San Diego County. He barely survived. Here is a link to the episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast featuring Ali.  

After Escobar: Taking Down the Notorious Cali Godfathers and the Biggest Drug Cartel in History
by Chris Feistl, Dave Mitchell and Jessica Balboni. Both Chris and Dave are retired from the DEA. Here is a link to the episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast featuring Chris. 

The God Shot, Healing Trauma’s Legacy: The Science, the Stories, the Solution 
by Dr. Eugene Lipov M.D. and Lauren Ungeldi. Dr. Lipov has been through his own struggles with PTSD. Here is a link to the episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast featuring Dr. Lipov. 

Demons & Angels 
by Dennis Pishock. Dennis is a former Firefighter and an active duty Police Officer. Here is a link to the episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast featuring Dennis. 

I Am Pitts: Memoirs of an American Patriot
by Dexter Pitts. Dexter is a combat wounded Veteran and a Police Officer. Here is a link to the episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast featuring Dexter. 

All Secure: A Special Operations Soldier's Fight to Survive on the Battlefield and the Homefront
by Tom Satterly and Steve Jackson. Tom is Retired from the US Army and was a participant in the famous Battle of Mogadishu, which was made famous by the Movie "Black Hawk Down". Here is a link to the episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast featuring Tom. 

To Die a Hero: A Crime Thriller Based on Real Life (End of Watch)
by Joseph Patrick Fair. Joseph is a retired Police Officer. Here is a link to the episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast featuring Patrick. 

Back in the Game: A Gino Peterson Novel (The Gino Peterson Series)
by Anthony M. Pesare. Anthony is a Retired State Trooper and Police Chief. Here is a link to the episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast featuring Anthony. 

Cops and Writers: From The Academy To The Street
by Patrick O'Donnell. Patrick is Retired from the Milwaukee Police Department. Here is a link to the episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast featuring Patrick. 

Tip of the Spear: It's Not What You Think
by Rodney Magallan. Rodney is retired from the U.S. Navy SEALS. Here is a link to the episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast featuring Rodney. 

Agent Under Fire
by Victor Avila. Victor is a retired US Federal Agent that was ambushed and shot in Mexico. His partner was killed in the attack. Here is a link to the episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast featuring Victor. 

Courageously Broken: A memoir about overcoming adversity and conquering the battle scars of life
by D. A. Michaels. She is retired from the Orange County, Fl Sheriff's Office. She has been on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast a few times, here is a link to the most recent episode. 

Agent Innocent: How the Secret Service Changed My Life
by Melanie Lentz. Melanie is a former US Secret Service Agent. She has been a guest on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, here is a link to an episode featuring her. 

Killer Triggers
by Joe Kenda. Joe is also known as The Homicide Hunter, from the Investigation Discovery television show of the same name. Joe is retired from the Colorado Springs Police Department. He has been on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast a few times, here is a link to the most recent episode. 

Greed
by Brian Brady. Brian is the author of several books and is a retired Police Officer and Chief from several agencies in California. Here is a link to the most recent episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show that featured him. 

Any Police Novel by the late Joseph Wambaugh. Joe was retired from the Los Angeles Police Department. His books, many of which were made into Movies motivated many people, myself included to get into Police Work. Sadly, I was never able to get Joe as a guest on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast.

I hope to have more lists of book suggestions in the new future.