20 best books on police corruption – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you ready to dive into the dark underbelly of law enforcement? If you’re fascinated by the gritty reality of police corruption, then look no further. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about police corruption that will keep you on the edge of your seat. From true crime accounts to gripping fictional tales, these books offer a chilling glimpse into a world where badges and justice often collide. So, grab a cup of coffee and get ready to immerse yourself in these captivating narratives that expose the hidden truths behind the thin blue line.


The Force

by Don Winslow

The Force is a gripping and intense novel that delves deep into the dark underbelly of law enforcement, exploring the sinister world of police corruption. Don Winslow masterfully crafts a tale that exposes the intricate web of deceit and betrayal that exists within the ranks of those sworn to protect and serve. This is not just a book on police corruption; it is a relentless and unflinching journey into the heart of darkness.

The Whites

by Richard Price (writing as Harry Brandt)

The Whites, written by Richard Price under the pen name Harry Brandt, is an electrifying book that delves deep into the gritty underbelly of law enforcement. Set in the heart of New York City, this mesmerizing tale pulls back the curtain on the dark and dangerous world of police corruption. With a masterful blend of suspense, intrigue, and heart-pounding action, The Whites is an unflinching exploration of the blurred lines between right and wrong, justice and revenge, in a city that never sleeps. Prepare to be enthralled by this captivating book that uncovers the hidden truths behind the veneer of justice and shines a light on the shadowy forces that lurk within the police force. It’s a must-read for anyone who craves a thrilling, thought-provoking, and unputdownable police corruption book.

The Black Echo

by Michael Connelly

The Black Echo by Michael Connelly is a riveting and gritty tale of a book about police corruption that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. This electrifying novel delves into the dark and treacherous world of law enforcement, as protagonist Harry Bosch uncovers a web of deceit and betrayal.

The Power of the Dog

by Don Winslow

The Power of the Dog: A Riveting Book on Police Corruption

Step into the gritty underworld of crime and corruption with The Power of the Dog, a heart-pounding thriller that exposes the dark underbelly of law enforcement. This electrifying novel by Don Winslow unravels a web of deceit, power plays, and moral ambiguity, leaving readers on the edge of their seats.

Set on both sides of the Mexican-American border, this gripping tale takes an unflinching look at the inner workings of the drug trade and the intricate relationships between law enforcement, politicians, and criminals. Winslow’s masterful storytelling delves deep into the complexities of police corruption, weaving a chilling narrative that explores the blurred lines between right and wrong.

With its vivid characters and pulse-pounding plot, The Power of the Dog offers a captivating exploration of a world where loyalty is questioned, alliances are shattered, and the pursuit of justice becomes a treacherous game. As the story unfolds, readers will find themselves immersed in a moral maze, questioning the motives and actions of each character.

Winslow’s meticulous research and attention to detail bring authenticity to every page, making The Power of the Dog a truly immersive experience. Through his vivid descriptions and gritty prose, he paints a vivid picture of a world where trust is a rare commodity and danger lurks around every corner.

Whether you’re a fan of crime thrillers or just looking for a thought-provoking read, The Power of the Dog is a must-read. Get ready to be captivated by a story that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about justice, morality, and the corrupt systems that govern our society.

The Cartel

by Don Winslow

The Cartel is an explosive and gripping book on police corruption, written by the talented author Don Winslow. This heart-pounding novel delves into the dangerous and murky world of law enforcement, where the line between right and wrong becomes blurred. Set in the seedy underbelly of the drug trade, this thrilling story explores the intricate webs of deceit and betrayal that surround the police force. Brace yourself for a rollercoaster ride of suspense and intrigue as you dive into this captivating police corruption book. Prepare to be captivated by Winslow’s masterful storytelling and the dark secrets that lie within the pages of The Cartel.

The Drop

by Michael Connelly

The Drop by Michael Connelly: A Gripping Tale of Police Corruption

In The Drop, bestselling author Michael Connelly delivers a compelling and suspenseful story that explores the dark underbelly of law enforcement. With his masterful storytelling and intricate plot, Connelly casts a spotlight on the chilling reality of police corruption.

Set in the gritty streets of Los Angeles, this gripping novel follows the journey of Harry Bosch, an experienced detective who becomes entangled in a high-stakes case involving a powerful and corrupt police department. As Bosch delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a web of deceit, betrayal, and cover-ups that threaten to tear apart the very fabric of justice.

Connelly’s meticulous attention to detail and his ability to create authentic characters make The Drop a must-read for fans of crime fiction. He skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they unravel the complex layers of police corruption.

Through his vivid descriptions and gritty dialogue, Connelly paints a vivid picture of a world where trust is a rare commodity and the line between right and wrong becomes blurred. As readers navigate the treacherous landscape of the LAPD, they are forced to confront their own beliefs about justice and the lengths some are willing to go to protect their own interests.

The Drop is not just another book about police corruption; it is a thought-provoking and engrossing thriller that shines a spotlight on the dark corners of law enforcement. With its intricate plot, compelling characters, and gripping narrative, this novel is sure to captivate readers from beginning to end.

The Force of the Law

by Tony Parsons

The Force of the Law, written by Tony Parsons, is a gripping book that delves into the murky world of law enforcement and the sinister underbelly of power. This riveting novel is not just another book on police corruption, but a thrilling exploration of the dark side of justice. Parsons masterfully weaves a tale of deceit, betrayal, and the lengths some will go to protect their own interests.

The Black Box

by Michael Connelly

The Black Box by Michael Connelly is an electrifying and gritty book on police corruption. This gripping crime thriller delves into the dark underbelly of law enforcement, exposing the sinister secrets that lurk beneath the surface.

Set in Los Angeles, the story follows Detective Harry Bosch as he investigates a cold case that has haunted him for two decades. The murder of a young Danish journalist during the 1992 riots has remained unsolved, and Bosch is determined to bring the killer to justice.

As Bosch delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of deceit, betrayal, and cover-ups that lead him to question the very foundations of the police department he has dedicated his life to. With each revelation, the walls close in around Bosch, forcing him to confront the police corruption that has infiltrated every level of the force.

Connelly’s masterful storytelling keeps readers on the edge of their seats, weaving a complex and compelling narrative that explores themes of power, loyalty, and the lengths some will go to protect their own. The Black Box is a book about police corruption that shines a light on the dark side of law enforcement, exposing the flaws and moral dilemmas faced by those sworn to serve and protect.

With its relentless pace, intricate plot twists, and richly drawn characters, The Black Box is a must-read police corruption book that will leave readers breathless until the final page.

The Trespasser

by Tana French

The Trespasser: A Gripping Tale of Law Enforcement Intrigue

Prepare yourself for a thrilling journey into the depths of law enforcement’s underbelly with Tana French’s The Trespasser. This mesmerizing novel delves into the world of police corruption, unraveling a web of deception and danger that will leave you breathless.

In this riveting story, French takes us on a relentless pursuit to uncover the truth, where the line between right and wrong becomes blurred. Set against the backdrop of a high-profile murder investigation, this book explores the dark side of law enforcement, exposing the hidden agendas and moral dilemmas that plague those sworn to protect and serve.

As the pages turn, you’ll find yourself engrossed in the complex and flawed characters that populate this gripping tale. With her sharp and evocative prose, French masterfully captures the gritty reality of police work, pulling back the curtain to reveal a world few have dared to explore.

With its intricate plot and relentless suspense, The Trespasser is a must-read for anyone seeking a thrilling and thought-provoking novel. Prepare to be captivated by French’s masterful storytelling as she shines a light on the shadowy corners of law enforcement, reminding us that even those tasked with upholding justice can sometimes find themselves on the wrong side of the law.

The Black Dahlia

by James Ellroy

The Black Dahlia is a riveting book on police corruption that will plunge you into the seedy underbelly of 1940s Los Angeles. This gripping tale by James Ellroy peels back the layers of a city consumed by darkness and deceit, where the pursuit of justice is tainted by greed and betrayal.

The Cuckoo’s Calling

by Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling)

The Cuckoo’s Calling: A Thrilling Dive into the Dark Depths of Police Corruption

Prepare to be captivated by Robert Galbraith’s gripping masterpiece, The Cuckoo’s Calling. This spellbinding novel takes readers on a heart-pounding journey through the twisted world of law enforcement malfeasance and deceit. With a riveting plot and a cast of unforgettable characters, this book unearths the secrets hidden within the shadows of police corruption.

Set in the fast-paced streets of London, The Cuckoo’s Calling delves into the underbelly of the city’s police force, exposing the intricate web of intrigue that lurks beneath the surface. Galbraith’s meticulous attention to detail and expert storytelling skills will leave you breathless as you unravel the layers of deception.

Through the eyes of the enigmatic private detective Cormoran Strike, readers are introduced to a world where justice and truth are constantly at odds. In this mesmerizing tale, Strike finds himself entangled in a high-profile murder case that seems destined to be buried under the weight of corruption.

Galbraith’s vivid descriptions and vivid imagery bring the gritty reality of police corruption to life, immersing readers in a world where loyalty is a rare commodity and danger lurks around every corner. With each turn of the page, the tension mounts, and the shocking truth gradually unravels.

Prepare yourself for a rollercoaster ride of suspense, as you join Cormoran Strike on his quest for justice in this thrilling exploration of police corruption. Galbraith’s masterful storytelling grips you from the very first page and keeps you on the edge of your seat until the final, explosive conclusion.

Don’t miss out on this captivating journey into the heart of darkness. The Cuckoo’s Calling is a must-read for anyone seeking a tale that will keep them guessing until the very end.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

by Stieg Larsson

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is an electrifying novel that delves deep into the gritty underbelly of society, exposing the dark secrets hidden beneath the surface. This gripping tale, penned by the late Swedish author Stieg Larsson, is a masterful exploration of police corruption and its far-reaching consequences.

The Poet

by Michael Connelly

The Poet by Michael Connelly is a gripping thriller that delves deep into the dark underbelly of law enforcement. This enthralling book uncovers a web of deceit and corruption within the police force, making it a must-read for fans of crime fiction.

The Girl Who Played with Fire

by Stieg Larsson

The Girl Who Played with Fire by Stieg Larsson is a thrilling and captivating book that delves deep into the dark and dangerous world of police corruption. This gripping novel takes readers on a heart-pounding journey, exposing the sinister secrets and hidden agendas that lurk within the shadows of law enforcement.

The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest

by Stieg Larsson

Are you ready to dive into a world of mystery, intrigue, and police misconduct? Look no further than “The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest” by Stieg Larsson, a gripping book on police corruption. This thrilling conclusion to Larsson’s Millennium series will keep you on the edge of your seat as you uncover the dark secrets lurking in the shadows of the Swedish police force.

The Drop

by Dennis Lehane

The Drop by Dennis Lehane is a gripping book on police corruption that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Set in the gritty underworld of Boston, this thrilling crime novel delves deep into the dark secrets and twisted alliances that exist within the city’s police force.

The Black Ice

by Michael Connelly

Welcome to the thrilling world of The Black Ice by Michael Connelly, a gripping novel that delves deep into the murky realm of law enforcement deception and deceit. This electrifying tale unravels a sinister web of corruption within the police force, making it a must-read for fans of crime fiction and those who crave a heart-pounding adrenaline rush.

In this mesmerizing book on police corruption, Connelly introduces us to his iconic protagonist, Harry Bosch, a relentless and troubled detective who finds himself entangled in a labyrinthine case. When a fellow cop is found dead in a drug den, Bosch is determined to uncover the truth behind the mysterious circumstances surrounding the death.

As Bosch delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a complex network of corruption, betrayal, and cover-ups that reaches far beyond what he initially anticipated. The book about police corruption takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the seedy underbelly of the law enforcement world, where nothing is as it seems, and danger lurks around every corner.

Connelly’s masterful storytelling keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly flipping through the pages to unravel the shocking truth. His vivid descriptions and sharp dialogue bring the characters to life, making them feel like real people grappling with their own demons in this police corruption book.

So, if you’re ready to embark on a thrilling journey into the dark heart of police corruption, grab a copy of The Black Ice and prepare to be captivated from beginning to end. Get ready for a pulse-pounding exploration of morality, justice, and the lengths one detective will go to expose the truth, no matter the cost.

The Girl in the Spider’s Web

by David Lagercrantz

The Girl in the Spider’s Web is an electrifying thriller that delves into the dark underbelly of law enforcement. This gripping novel, penned by David Lagercrantz, unravels a web of deceit, betrayal, and police malfeasance.

Set in the gritty world of cybercrime and government conspiracies, the story follows Lisbeth Salander, a brilliant hacker with a troubled past, as she becomes entangled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse. When she stumbles upon classified information exposing a corrupt police force, Salander finds herself targeted by powerful enemies who will stop at nothing to silence her.

As the tension builds, Salander teams up with journalist Mikael Blomkvist to expose the truth and bring justice to those responsible. Together, they navigate a treacherous landscape of high-stakes espionage, evading capture while unearthing a sinister plot that reaches the highest levels of power.

The Girl in the Spider’s Web is a heart-pounding page-turner that explores the dark side of law enforcement, shedding light on the intricate dynamics of corruption within the police force. With its thrilling plot, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking an adrenaline-fueled ride through the world of police malpractice, deceit, and redemption.

The Black Echo

by Dennis Lehane

The Black Echo by Dennis Lehane is a gripping crime thriller that delves into the dark underbelly of law enforcement, exposing the sinister world of police corruption. This enthralling novel takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the twists and turns of a complex investigation, where the line between right and wrong becomes dangerously blurred.

The Black Box

by Dennis Lehane

The Black Box by Dennis Lehane is a gripping and intense book on police corruption. Set in the gritty streets of Boston, this thrilling novel delves into the dark underbelly of law enforcement, exploring the depths of corruption and betrayal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 books about police corruption offer fascinating and eye-opening insights into the dark underbelly of law enforcement. From real-life accounts to gripping works of fiction, these books explore the complexities of corruption within police departments, shedding light on the consequences for both individuals and society as a whole. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling crime thriller or an in-depth examination of the systemic issues at play, these books are sure to captivate and educate readers. Delve into these gripping narratives and uncover the truth about police corruption.