Are you a fan of true crime? Do you love reading about the heroes and villains that make up the Los Angeles Police Department? If so, you’re in luck! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about LAPD that will keep you on the edge of your seat. From thrilling memoirs to gripping investigative journalism, these books offer a fascinating look into the inner workings of one of the most iconic police departments in the world. Get ready to dive into the world of the LAPD with these must-read books!
Contents
- 1 Blue: The LAPD and the Battle to Redeem American Policing
- 2 Ghettoside: A True Story of Murder in America
- 3 The Onion Field
- 4 The Black Dahlia
- 5 L.A. Noir: The Struggle for the Soul of America’s Most Seductive City
- 6 The Big Nowhere
- 7 The Thin Blue Line: How Humanitarianism Went to War
- 8 The Last Good Heist: The Inside Story of The Biggest Single Payday in the Criminal History of the Northeast
- 9 The Night Stalker: The Life and Crimes of Richard Ramirez
- 10 The Killing Season: A Summer Inside an LAPD Homicide Division
- 11 The Long Blue Line: A Murder in the LAPD
- 12 The Badge: True and Terrifying Crime Stories That Could Not Be Presented on TV, from the Creator and Star of Dragnet
- 13 The Executioner’s Song
- 14 The Blue Knight
- 15 The Hillside Stranglers
- 16 The Onion Field
- 17 The Big Sleep
- 18 The Black Echo
- 19 The Black Ice
- 20 The Closers
- 21 Conclusion
Blue: The LAPD and the Battle to Redeem American Policing
by Joe Domanick
Blue: The LAPD and the Battle to Redeem American Policing by Joe Domanick is a captivating book about the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and its tumultuous journey towards redemption. In this eye-opening work, Domanick delves into the history of the LAPD, exploring its notorious past and revealing the efforts made to transform it into a more accountable and effective police force.
Through meticulous research and gripping storytelling, Domanick brings to light the struggles and triumphs of the LAPD, shining a spotlight on the individuals who fought for change within the department. From the devastating Rodney King riots to the implementation of community policing initiatives, this book provides a comprehensive and thought-provoking account of the challenges faced by the LAPD and the broader implications for American policing.
Engaging and informative, Blue is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of law enforcement and the ongoing battle to reform policing in the United States.
Ghettoside: A True Story of Murder in America
by Jill Leovy
Ghettoside: A True Story of Murder in America by Jill Leovy is a gripping and eye-opening book about the LAPD and the reality of crime in Los Angeles. This groundbreaking book takes readers on a journey through the city’s most violent and neglected neighborhoods, shedding light on the systemic issues that plague these communities. Leovy, a veteran journalist, delves deep into the lives of both the victims and the detectives who tirelessly work to solve their cases. With meticulous research and powerful storytelling, she uncovers the harsh realities of a justice system that often fails to protect its most vulnerable citizens. Ghettoside is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of crime, race, and law enforcement in America.
The Onion Field
by Joseph Wambaugh
The Onion Field by Joseph Wambaugh is an unputdownable book about the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). This gripping true crime novel takes readers on a heart-wrenching journey through a dark chapter in the LAPD’s history. Set in the 1960s, the book follows the shocking and tragic events surrounding the kidnapping of two LAPD officers by a pair of criminals. Wambaugh’s masterful storytelling and meticulous research provide an intimate and raw look into the lives of the officers, the criminals, and the aftermath of the crime. With its vivid descriptions, complex characters, and intense suspense, The Onion Field is a must-read for anyone fascinated by true crime or eager to delve into the gritty world of law enforcement.
The Black Dahlia
by James Ellroy
The Black Dahlia is a gripping crime novel by James Ellroy, known for his intense and gritty storytelling. Set in 1940s Los Angeles, this book delves into the dark underbelly of the LAPD, providing a thrilling and atmospheric backdrop for the story. Inspired by true events, the narrative revolves around the infamous murder of Elizabeth Short, a young woman whose mutilated body was found in a vacant lot. As two detectives, Lee Blanchard and Dwight “Bucky” Bleichert, are assigned to the case, they become consumed by their pursuit of the killer. Ellroy’s masterful writing pulls the reader into a web of corruption, obsession, and deception, making The Black Dahlia an unforgettable and haunting exploration of crime and justice.
L.A. Noir: The Struggle for the Soul of America’s Most Seductive City
by John Buntin
L.A. Noir: The Struggle for the Soul of America’s Most Seductive City by John Buntin is a captivating book about the LAPD’s dark and complex history. Delving deep into the underbelly of Los Angeles, Buntin unveils the gritty and corrupt reality of the city’s police force. With meticulous research and gripping storytelling, this book exposes the relentless battles for power and control that have shaped the LAPD over the years. From the infamous Black Dahlia murder case to the gripping pursuit of notorious gangsters, L.A. Noir takes readers on a thrilling journey through the shadows of America’s most seductive city. This is a must-read for anyone seeking an intimate and revealing account of the LAPD’s tumultuous past.
The Big Nowhere
by James Ellroy
The Big Nowhere is a gripping book about the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) in the 1950s. This mesmerizing novel, written by James Ellroy, takes readers on a dark journey through the underbelly of the LAPD, where corruption and violence reign supreme. Set against the backdrop of the Red Scare and the Black Dahlia murder, The Big Nowhere follows three protagonists: a disgraced cop, a rising star detective, and an ambitious journalist. As these characters navigate the treacherous world of organized crime, political scandals, and personal demons, their paths intertwine in unexpected ways. With its gritty atmosphere, complex characters, and intricate plot, The Big Nowhere is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the tumultuous history of the LAPD.
The Thin Blue Line: How Humanitarianism Went to War
by Connie Rice
The Thin Blue Line: How Humanitarianism Went to War by Connie Rice is a captivating book about the LAPD and the journey of humanitarianism turning into a battle. Rice takes readers on a gripping exploration of the history, challenges, and controversies of the LAPD, shedding light on the evolution of the police force and the impact it has had on society.
Through her meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Rice offers a fresh perspective on the LAPD’s transformation, delving into the complexities of police work and the intricate web of human rights, race relations, and social justice. This thought-provoking book about the LAPD forces us to question our own beliefs and biases, and challenges us to reimagine the role of law enforcement in our communities. If you’re looking for a captivating and enlightening read, this is the book for you.
The Last Good Heist: The Inside Story of The Biggest Single Payday in the Criminal History of the Northeast
by Tim White
The Last Good Heist: The Inside Story of The Biggest Single Payday in the Criminal History of the Northeast by Tim White is a thrilling true crime book that delves into the captivating world of a legendary heist. Set in the Northeast, this gripping tale follows a gang of criminals who meticulously plan and execute a daring robbery, resulting in the largest single payday in the criminal history of the region. With its fast-paced narrative and vivid storytelling, this book is a must-read for anyone fascinated by true crime and the intricate workings of criminal masterminds. Get ready to be on the edge of your seat as you dive into this fascinating account of one of the most audacious heists ever pulled off.
The Night Stalker: The Life and Crimes of Richard Ramirez
by Philip Carlo
The Night Stalker: The Life and Crimes of Richard Ramirez by Philip Carlo is a spine-chilling account of one of America’s most notorious serial killers. This gripping true crime book delves into the twisted mind of Richard Ramirez, also known as the Night Stalker, who terrorized the streets of Los Angeles in the 1980s. Carlo takes readers on a thrilling journey through Ramirez’s heinous acts, providing a detailed and haunting portrait of the man behind the crimes. With meticulous research and firsthand interviews, this book offers a bone-chilling glimpse into the LAPD’s relentless pursuit of justice, making it an essential read for anyone fascinated by true crime and the dark underbelly of society.
The Killing Season: A Summer Inside an LAPD Homicide Division
by Miles Corwin
The Killing Season: A Summer Inside an LAPD Homicide Division by Miles Corwin is an enthralling book about the LAPD that takes readers on a gripping journey into the heart of the city’s homicide division. Corwin, a former crime reporter, spent a summer embedded with the detectives, witnessing firsthand the intense and often harrowing cases they handle on a daily basis. Through his vivid and meticulous storytelling, Corwin brings to life the high-stakes world of murder investigations, revealing the dedication, skill, and tenacity required to solve these crimes. With its gritty realism and compelling narrative, The Killing Season offers readers a fascinating and immersive look into the inner workings of the LAPD and the men and women who risk their lives to bring justice to the streets of Los Angeles.
The Long Blue Line: A Murder in the LAPD
by William R. Burkett Jr.
The Long Blue Line is a gripping true crime book that delves into the dark underbelly of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). Written by William R. Burkett Jr., this captivating read unravels a shocking murder that rocked the LAPD to its core. Burkett, a former LAPD officer himself, provides a unique insider’s perspective as he unravels the intricate web of corruption, betrayal, and cover-ups that surrounded the case. This compelling book offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the LAPD, shedding light on the often hidden side of law enforcement. With its thrilling narrative and meticulous research, The Long Blue Line is a must-read for anyone fascinated by true crime and seeking a deeper understanding of the LAPD’s complex history.
The Badge: True and Terrifying Crime Stories That Could Not Be Presented on TV, from the Creator and Star of Dragnet
by Jack Webb
Discover the gripping and chilling tales that could not be shown on television in The Badge: True and Terrifying Crime Stories That Could Not Be Presented on TV, from the Creator and Star of Dragnet. In this captivating book about the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Jack Webb, renowned as the creator and star of the iconic TV series Dragnet, delves deep into the heart-pounding world of crime and law enforcement. With firsthand experience and an insider’s perspective, Webb takes readers on a thrilling journey through the dark underbelly of Los Angeles, sharing shocking stories of true crimes that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Get ready to have your book on LAPD, or rather LAPD book, experience intensified as you uncover the hidden secrets and terrifying realities of one of America’s most notorious police departments.
The Executioner’s Song
by Norman Mailer
The Executioner’s Song by Norman Mailer is a riveting book about the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and the dark underbelly of crime it faces. This gritty and unflinching account takes readers on a thrilling journey through the LAPD’s relentless pursuit of justice. Mailer’s masterful storytelling keeps you on the edge of your seat as he delves into the personal lives of the officers, exposing their vulnerabilities and their unwavering dedication to protect and serve. With every turn of the page, the book reveals the LAPD’s struggles and triumphs, giving readers a profound insight into the complex world of law enforcement. Whether you’re a true crime enthusiast or simply intrigued by the inner workings of the LAPD, this captivating book is a must-read.
The Blue Knight
by Joseph Wambaugh
The Blue Knight is a thrilling and gripping book on the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), written by the esteemed author Joseph Wambaugh. This masterpiece delves deep into the heart of the LAPD, exploring the trials and tribulations faced by the men and women who wear the badge. Wambaugh’s vivid storytelling paints a realistic and gritty portrayal of life on the streets, capturing the essence of the LAPD with unparalleled authenticity. With its riveting plot, unforgettable characters, and heart-stopping action, this book about the LAPD is a must-read for any fan of crime fiction or those seeking an intimate glimpse into the world behind the badge.
The Hillside Stranglers
by Darcy O’Brien
The Hillside Stranglers by Darcy O’Brien is a gripping true crime book that delves into the chilling case of the notorious killers who terrorized Los Angeles in the 1970s. This captivating book about the LAPD takes readers on a spine-tingling journey through the investigation, capturing the fear and panic that gripped the city during those dark times.
O’Brien’s meticulous research and compelling storytelling skillfully chronicle the crimes committed by Kenneth Bianchi and Angelo Buono, also known as the Hillside Stranglers. Through interviews with detectives, victims’ families, and the killers themselves, the author paints a vivid picture of the LAPD’s relentless pursuit of justice.
The Hillside Stranglers is a must-read for true crime enthusiasts and anyone interested in the fascinating and often disturbing world of criminal investigations. Prepare to be captivated by this LAPD book that unravels the horrifying secrets of one of America’s most notorious cases.
The Onion Field
by Joseph Wambaugh
The Onion Field is a gripping true crime novel written by Joseph Wambaugh, a former police officer turned author. This riveting book delves into the notorious crime that shook the LAPD to its core. Set in the 1960s, the story follows two young officers who are ambushed by a pair of criminals during a routine traffic stop. What starts as a seemingly routine encounter quickly spirals into a nightmarish ordeal that has lifelong consequences. Wambaugh’s meticulous research and insightful storytelling provide a raw and unflinching look into the inner workings of the police force, the criminal justice system, and the toll that tragedy takes on those involved. The Onion Field is a must-read for anyone fascinated by true crime and a chilling reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers.
The Big Sleep
by Raymond Chandler
The Big Sleep by Raymond Chandler is a riveting crime novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the gritty underbelly of Los Angeles. Set in the 1930s, this book delves into the dark and dangerous world of private investigator Philip Marlowe as he delves into a complex case involving blackmail, murder, and deceit.
With his trusty book on LAPD procedures in hand, Marlowe navigates through the seedy streets and encounters a cast of intriguing characters, each with their own secrets and motivations. Chandler’s writing is sharp and brimming with wit, making every page a delight to read.
As Marlowe delves deeper into the case, he finds himself entangled in a web of corruption and violence, forcing him to confront his own demons while fighting to uncover the truth. This LAPD book is a gripping and atmospheric read that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.
The Black Echo
by Michael Connelly
The Black Echo by Michael Connelly is a thrilling crime novel that takes readers deep into the gritty world of the Los Angeles Police Department. This captivating book about LAPD follows Harry Bosch, a tough and relentless detective, as he investigates a complex case involving a murdered fellow Vietnam War veteran. As the investigation unfolds, Bosch uncovers a web of corruption and deception that reaches the highest levels of power in the city. With his book on LAPD in hand, Connelly skillfully weaves a suspenseful tale of murder, intrigue, and the dark underbelly of law enforcement. Get ready for a gripping ride through the LAPD’s shadowy streets and witness the relentless pursuit of justice in this must-read LAPD book.
The Black Ice
by Michael Connelly
The Black Ice is a gripping crime thriller by Michael Connelly that takes readers deep into the gritty and dangerous world of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). This electrifying book about the LAPD follows the story of Detective Harry Bosch as he investigates the mysterious death of a fellow officer. As Bosch delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of corruption, drugs, and deceit that stretches far beyond the police force. With his career and life on the line, Bosch must navigate the treacherous waters of the LAPD and confront the demons from his past. Filled with intense action, intricate plot twists, and a flawed but determined protagonist, The Black Ice is a must-read for fans of crime fiction and anyone craving a thrilling ride through the dark underbelly of the city.
The Closers
by Michael Connelly
The Closers by Michael Connelly is a thrilling and captivating book about the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). This gripping novel takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the dark underbelly of the city, where no case is too cold to be reopened. In this enthralling story, Connelly introduces us to Harry Bosch, a relentless detective who discovers new evidence that could potentially solve a murder case from years ago. As he delves deeper into the investigation, Bosch uncovers shocking secrets and uncovers a web of corruption that reaches the highest levels of the LAPD. With his book about the LAPD, Connelly once again proves why he is a master of the crime genre, delivering a page-turning thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re looking to delve into the thrilling world of the Los Angeles Police Department, these 20 books about LAPD are a must-read. With their gripping narratives, well-researched details, and insider perspectives, these books offer an immersive experience that will leave you on the edge of your seat. From true crime to police procedurals, there’s something for every reader who craves a taste of the LAPD’s rich history and captivating stories. So grab a cup of coffee, settle into your favorite reading spot, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the pages of these incredible books about LAPD.