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Readers get to step behind the badge in this collection of recollections and memories of a career in Tennessee law enforcement that spans over three decades. The author introduces real cases, real officers, and real thrills in this memoir that highlights the dangerous, rewarding, and challenging day-to-day experience of upholding the law. Beginning with the author’s job as a jailer and going all the way to his role as chief of detectives, each of his stories has the opportunity to be a cherished humorous bit of camaraderie or a traumatic and scarring memory. The decades-long span of time these memories are recalled from is complemented nicely by the various roles and positions held by Matthews in his career, creating a varied and dynamic range that stays fresh and interesting.
From small-town characters and troublemakers to federal charges and daily headlines, every page and every story in this collection has the potential to surprise. Two themes show up again and again in this retelling of a career in law enforcement: one can never be too prepared for something to happen, and the decisions made in a split second can last a lifetime. The book is filled with surprises, and the reader will never know until the final word if the story ends with a punchline or a somber moment. Photographs and news clippings used throughout the book highlight the more high-profile moments and also show the brotherhood and bond between officers as they make each other laugh at the station. Whether due to an interest in true crime stories, the history of police work, or just a well-told and engaging bit of storytelling, the reader will discover that this book captures the gamut of emotions and outcomes and has a little bit of something for everyone.