I knew pretty much nothing about law enforcement (structure, procedures…basically, zilch). So when the AWAKEN series (originally a YA Romance) turned into more of a YA Thriller amid necessary plot changes, I panicked.

I checked around with different people I knew, wondering where to go or what to do. Then a writer friend suggested Patrick O’Donnell’s Facebook group COPS AND WRITERS. I had no idea O’Donnell had written a book (also called COPS AND WRITERS). As soon as I found out, I purchased it.

This book has given me a great foundation for learning about cops, cop life, and some of the things police officers go through on a daily basis — everyday struggles that are part of the job, tragedies they may face, as well as the lighthearted side of things (cop humor, kindhearted citizens, etc.). I want my series to be authentic, to have believable characters. This book has definitely been helping with certain aspects of that.

If you know a ton about cop life and/or if you’re already knowledgeable about law enforcement (how things work, etc.), Patrick O’Donnell has a second book you might want to check out. I’ve heard it has more advanced material (do double-check that, but that’s my understanding).

However, for the price, I would say getting both is still ideal. In addition to being informative and entertaining, the stories in this first book have fueled my creative juices. I’ve been re-thinking how to execute certain scenes in order to give the writing a more organic feel.

I’m not where I need to be yet (knowledge-wise) in order to finish book two in the AWAKEN series, but I’m getting there. My plan is to purchase the author’s second book, as well, and see how far that takes me.

Overall, the book is a great value and is very entertaining. It’s not exactly travel-related, but if it was, I’d give it 5 Backpacks out of 5.

P.S. Jacques says he likes it, too!