What do you think?
Rate this book
Bullets in the Washing Machine
Melissa Littles, Founder of The Police Wife Life, is an advocate for Law Enforcement Officers and their families. Bullets in the Washing Machine, her first release, is a compilation of short stories and poems, focusing on seeing the positives through the daily struggles of living a life in Law Enforcement. Melissa hopes to not only bring encouragement to those in law enforcement but to bring awareness to the general public of the daily sacrifices and misconceptions related to law enforcement officers. Melissa Littles is married to Officer Bervis Littles of the Edmond Police Department, in Edmond, Oklahoma. Officer Littles is a Hostage Negotiator, Suicide Prevention Officer and a School Resource Officer.
- GenresNonfiction
168 pages, Paperback
First published September 23, 2011
7 people are currently reading
205 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
March 5, 2012
This book was okay. I am an LEO wife and I understand the dangers our husbands face everyday. I have lost three friends in the line of duty. But to have a book where almost every story the officer is killed is a bit depressing. I was hoping this book would give tips and advice as to how other LEO wives deal with being an LEO wife. Too much doom and gloom.
August 29, 2013
I have been married to an officer almost two years, and I was looking for a good support book for wives and families of LEOs. 95% of this book was about officers being murdered, and it was more of a "You're lucky your officer is still alive" book and that your time is coming! We as LEO wives go through a lot with our officers and our lifestyles, and I was hoping to feel better and be lifted up by this book, but it had quite the opposite effect. I don't ever want my husband to go to work again after reading this book! I couldn't read it right before bed, ESPECIALLY nights that my husband was working. It scared me. I know that wasn't the author's intention, but just a fair warning to anyone, especially new police wives, this isn't the book to read if you want to feel better about your husband being in law enforcement.
December 29, 2023
I was introduced to this book after complaining about the numbers of bullets that end up in my washing machine. I wasn’t sure what to expect from it, but seeing & hearing stories of LEO’s & LEO Wives is humbling. It was difficult to read at times, but overall I’m glad I read it & pray for LEO’s & LEO Wives / Families daily.
November 18, 2020
I don’t even know where do begin. This book made me cry and laugh and cry some more. This book is not just for a LEO (law enforcement officer) wife or family it’s for anyone. It opens up the world that we live in to others, so those outside our thin blue line, know what we as both LEOs and LEOW (wives) go through. Melissa is an amazing writer, I read this book in one day, and I will reread it. The prayers in thr book helped (you can skip over them) it’s not a book on religion, the added prayers are to help us in the LE world to pray better, and help us with what we want to pray about but sometimes cannot get the words out. Melissa’s own personal story in the book was very poignant, I sat there stunned, reading each word carefully, as it proves not all LEOs are like each other. There are more good cops out there than “bad” and I really don’t want to use the word bad as their job isn’t easy as some “take their work home” and some you will never see their ugly side or their good side! Those who go above and beyond you will never hear about as they are humble, unfortunately it’s the ones that and don’t want recognition it’s a part of the job, those with an ugly side unfortunately you may see and that puts the spotlight on every LEO as “bad” I can tell you from 22 years of experience not every police officer is bad. Mine is loving, caring, kind, he may be rough around the edges to those on the outside even to those who know him, but he loves with everything in his heart and goes above and beyond. This life isn’t easy, you have to learn to deal with what they live with daily and just take a breath and let them take a breath and have space,
August 24, 2017
So this book was just a lot of truly sad stories of death.. and I completely agree that we should appreciate every moment with our spouse like it's our last (especially as a police wife) but I was expecting more of an advice book? Officers are much more likely to die on the job than most but they just plain old deal with more emotionally, whether or not it's life threatening and I think I would rather have the officers point of view. That's one girls opinion 😊 I don't want you to think it was poorly written but it was more of a book to raise awareness.
January 17, 2018
It was OK. My husband wanted me to read it. It was full of really sad stories. I'm sure someone would find it encouraging, but it wasn't for me.
February 27, 2022
A must read for SO of law enforcement
July 12, 2023
If this helps one person, than who am I to judge. But to me it felt like 10% authentic issues and feelings, 90% propaganda.
August 15, 2015
I read the first story in this book, cried and put it down. It upset me too much to continue reading it. I purchased the book only a few months into my new relationship, and it just got to me. Time has passed, and experience has come into play, so I decided to try and finish it. I was disappointed in the overall outcome of almost each story. I agree with others that almost every story was one of an Officer dying. To be far, there are a few, maybe 4 that seemed to be more positive. however, overall - I didn't find this to be supportive in anyway. The author almost tries to pound it into you that it's not if, but when. Living this lifestyle is hard, and I won't discount that. It is not a secret that you know everytime he goes to work there's an increased risk he's taking with every call he responds too, especially right now. But reading it over and over was certainly not the support I was looking for when I found this book.
On top of that there was this continued overlying theme that ran through each page. With one story sticking out in particular called "Are You Ready?" It speaks to the "duties and hardships" of the LEO wife, but is written with the essence of a drill sergeant. It speaks of long hours alone and fears and dealing with public opion and so on. But I could sense so much anger coming from it. She seems to have holier than thou approach - and I got super tired of it. Don't get me wrong, living this life does take strength, patience, and thick skin (just to name a few) - but it seemed that the lifestyle was her focus, and not the reason she lives it - the man she loves. I personally don't go around telling everyone how "awful" it can be. honestly it is what it is, and it's worth it because my LEO is worth it. the lifestyle is only a small part in comparison to the memories I'm creating with him. And I know for a fact that LEO or not, every time your loved one leaves there is a chance they won't return. that's how life works...it's short, so treasure every second.
I felt like saying - this life is hard, but whats making your life harder is all the anger you're harboring while trying to make it seem that you're proud to do this. If being a LEO wife meant so much to you, shed some positivity on what happens as well...it is those moments that make all the rest worth it.
end rant.
sorry.
I do not recommended this book to spouses who are new to the LEO life. There is not enough actual support and seems to only want to instill more fear in you.
the two star rating is based on the small amount of positive stories in the book, as I found those to be the most supportive. In particular there is one written by an officer to his wife, in which I enjoyed.
On top of that there was this continued overlying theme that ran through each page. With one story sticking out in particular called "Are You Ready?" It speaks to the "duties and hardships" of the LEO wife, but is written with the essence of a drill sergeant. It speaks of long hours alone and fears and dealing with public opion and so on. But I could sense so much anger coming from it. She seems to have holier than thou approach - and I got super tired of it. Don't get me wrong, living this life does take strength, patience, and thick skin (just to name a few) - but it seemed that the lifestyle was her focus, and not the reason she lives it - the man she loves. I personally don't go around telling everyone how "awful" it can be. honestly it is what it is, and it's worth it because my LEO is worth it. the lifestyle is only a small part in comparison to the memories I'm creating with him. And I know for a fact that LEO or not, every time your loved one leaves there is a chance they won't return. that's how life works...it's short, so treasure every second.
I felt like saying - this life is hard, but whats making your life harder is all the anger you're harboring while trying to make it seem that you're proud to do this. If being a LEO wife meant so much to you, shed some positivity on what happens as well...it is those moments that make all the rest worth it.
end rant.
sorry.
I do not recommended this book to spouses who are new to the LEO life. There is not enough actual support and seems to only want to instill more fear in you.
the two star rating is based on the small amount of positive stories in the book, as I found those to be the most supportive. In particular there is one written by an officer to his wife, in which I enjoyed.
June 29, 2015
I was recommended this book by an officer that said it did wonders for his wife and their relationship. I had been putting off reading the book (and any book in regards to the line of duty) since my husband is still in the process of job hunting. Offers have been made that fell through or he wouldn't pass the final stages of testing. For the last year and a half he has been applying and testing without the result of a job in law enforcement. After the most recent round of testing that didn't go the way we hoped, I realized maybe God was waiting for me to be more prepared before he secured a job. I decided that now was the best time to start preparing to be an officer's wife because I know, without a doubt, he will find a department job and I will have to take up these reins.
I started with Bullets in the Washing Machine and I am glad I read it. The stories broke my heart while putting more steel into my spine, knowing that I would have to gain it in some way. It also made me think about how I needed to start making adjustments now that would help with the transition of living the officer's wife life. I am already thinking about support groups to become a part of, women to reach out to. Heck, I wasn't even done reading and I reached out to the wife of an officer my husband was in academy with. I recommended this book to her and she was happy for my suggestion because she had been looking for a police wife book to read.
At some moments I began to question if I could actual be this person for my husband, the LEO wife that is described and needed for a marriage like this to be successful. It scares me. I think about the times of neglect and how I will become second in his life forevermore and that my life will lean toward that of a single mother's since I will be going alone more often than not. But then I think about my husband, the man he is, how the world deserves him to be one of its protectors, how he will always put others first, even me (whether I see it or not), and will always fight the good fight no matter what. And I came to the conclusion that HE deserves a strong woman that can stand by him, support him, and love him no matter what comes our way and I know, deep down I can be that person for him.
Bullets in the Washing Machine has helped change my perspective on what will most likely be my reality when he becomes an officer and as terrifying as it is, and I can admit I wish it weren't that way, I feel better prepared in my mind and heart for that day.
I started with Bullets in the Washing Machine and I am glad I read it. The stories broke my heart while putting more steel into my spine, knowing that I would have to gain it in some way. It also made me think about how I needed to start making adjustments now that would help with the transition of living the officer's wife life. I am already thinking about support groups to become a part of, women to reach out to. Heck, I wasn't even done reading and I reached out to the wife of an officer my husband was in academy with. I recommended this book to her and she was happy for my suggestion because she had been looking for a police wife book to read.
At some moments I began to question if I could actual be this person for my husband, the LEO wife that is described and needed for a marriage like this to be successful. It scares me. I think about the times of neglect and how I will become second in his life forevermore and that my life will lean toward that of a single mother's since I will be going alone more often than not. But then I think about my husband, the man he is, how the world deserves him to be one of its protectors, how he will always put others first, even me (whether I see it or not), and will always fight the good fight no matter what. And I came to the conclusion that HE deserves a strong woman that can stand by him, support him, and love him no matter what comes our way and I know, deep down I can be that person for him.
Bullets in the Washing Machine has helped change my perspective on what will most likely be my reality when he becomes an officer and as terrifying as it is, and I can admit I wish it weren't that way, I feel better prepared in my mind and heart for that day.
January 11, 2015
I was very excited to read this book. I had found Melissa Littles' Facebook page "the Police Wife Life" and it was exactly the community I needed. I hunted and scoured for this book, and finally received it for Christmas from my LEO. I sat down to read it 2 days ago, and boy was it not what I expected. Almost all of the chapters are about tragedies, and propaganda to get you prepared to live a life alone. "You signed up to be a married single person" was the main theme of this book. I understand the realities of this life, and know that the stories are a reality for far too many. But I expected the book to be more of "here's how I cope with this life", not "here's what we all dread and aren't you lucky you aren't here yet". I'm really disappointed with it. If you all are looking for a better book, I highly recommend: "I love a cop" by Ellen Kirschman. I'm only a third of the way through but already it has made me feel more understood and less crazy than I have felt at times being a LEO SO.
January 29, 2016
I wasn't even able to get half way into this one before sending it back.
If you enjoy feeling sorry for yourself being the wife of a law enforcement officer then you would probably enjoy this very much. I however, do not.
The initial story-- heart wrenching. I continued to read, all the while hoping for some silver lining or advice on how these women handle being married to police officers.
However, I was incredibly disappointed when it was sad story, after sadder story with no hope of a "normal" life.
The book only seemed to focus on loss-- not really with any mention of how to live with an officer.
It painted a picture of death and destruction for anyone who chooses the profession of being a Law-Enforcement Officer.
I would never recommend this book-- esp. for those who have loved ones in uniform.
It wasn't a "harsh truth" that we need to hear or people need to read. We think about losing our loved ones often, esp. with the world we live in. We need comfort, hope, and advice from others on how to deal with and support your LEO.
This one did no such thing.
If you enjoy feeling sorry for yourself being the wife of a law enforcement officer then you would probably enjoy this very much. I however, do not.
The initial story-- heart wrenching. I continued to read, all the while hoping for some silver lining or advice on how these women handle being married to police officers.
However, I was incredibly disappointed when it was sad story, after sadder story with no hope of a "normal" life.
The book only seemed to focus on loss-- not really with any mention of how to live with an officer.
It painted a picture of death and destruction for anyone who chooses the profession of being a Law-Enforcement Officer.
I would never recommend this book-- esp. for those who have loved ones in uniform.
It wasn't a "harsh truth" that we need to hear or people need to read. We think about losing our loved ones often, esp. with the world we live in. We need comfort, hope, and advice from others on how to deal with and support your LEO.
This one did no such thing.
March 7, 2014
Stories were sent in to create a collaboration of a police family book.
I was gifted this book and was excited to get a book that I could relate to on a level not many others can. However after the first few depressing chapters I quickly got a sinking feeling that the rest of the book was similar. I'd say 95% of this book deals with officer deaths. While I appreciate those who participated in this book, their commitment, courage, and sacrifice, I just don't know who this books market is. Who would want to read an entire book about law enforcement tragedy's (especially other LEO families)? Honestly I almost didn't' finish this one (which is RARE for me) because it bothered me so badly. (Not the fact that these things happen but that this book would be marketed to the very people that need the deep support and help and love and instead to sink you deeper.)
http://cranberryfries.blogspot.com/20...
I was gifted this book and was excited to get a book that I could relate to on a level not many others can. However after the first few depressing chapters I quickly got a sinking feeling that the rest of the book was similar. I'd say 95% of this book deals with officer deaths. While I appreciate those who participated in this book, their commitment, courage, and sacrifice, I just don't know who this books market is. Who would want to read an entire book about law enforcement tragedy's (especially other LEO families)? Honestly I almost didn't' finish this one (which is RARE for me) because it bothered me so badly. (Not the fact that these things happen but that this book would be marketed to the very people that need the deep support and help and love and instead to sink you deeper.)
http://cranberryfries.blogspot.com/20...
May 27, 2019
I was disappointed. I thought it was going to be one of those "You know you're an LEO wife when you find bullets in the washing machine/ Christmas is two days later for your family/ you eat dinner at 2am and breakfast at 3pm" type books that I could relate to and feel like there are others who understand. This book was so depressing, and not what I needed to read while worrying about my husband. He asked me to stop reading it while he was at work because I would get so anxious. Each story felt (depressingly) the same. And the poor punctuation and grammer was distracting.(I know we all make mistakes, but it's different when you are having something published and make money from it.)
I really wanted to love this book. Maybe it's just not for me.
I really wanted to love this book. Maybe it's just not for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2014
What can I say...? I thought this was going to be an uplifting, lighthearted book with tips about living "the life". No. No. It made me more paranoid about my husband going to work. It made me scared to see him walk out the door. It made me petrified if the phone rings when he's not home. It made me anxious and expect the worst instead of learn acceptance and strength.
The stories were well written but the context was basically... "Kiss your husband good-bye. He's not coming back." I realize that is the reality of the job but there are other POSITIVE, STRONG attributes about it, too. That is what needs to be emphasized!
The stories were well written but the context was basically... "Kiss your husband good-bye. He's not coming back." I realize that is the reality of the job but there are other POSITIVE, STRONG attributes about it, too. That is what needs to be emphasized!
May 27, 2019
Reading this book was just what I needed. There may be many sad stories which have made me pray even harder that my husband remains safe and able to come home at the end of each shift, but the thoughts/feelings described in the book are real. It made me understand that my fears and the things that I wish I could be but can't are normal. So instead of fighting them (as I have been trying to do), I need to accept them. I only wish I had bought this book sooner. Thank you Melissa Littles.
June 9, 2016
As a LEO wife, I was really excited to read this book and feel like I had a support system. Unfortunately, it made me feel the complete opposite. This book is pretty much every negative aspect about the LEO wife life, with none of the good things. Every story is depressing and scary and really wouldn't make any LEO wife feel better about her situation.
I definitely wouldn't recommend this book to a LEO wife who's looking for peace or support.
I definitely wouldn't recommend this book to a LEO wife who's looking for peace or support.
February 28, 2013
Very interesting look into the world of a police officer's spouse and the psychological impact that living with a police officer has on life in general. Book especially takes a close look at officers killed in the line of duty. Would especially recommend this book to anyone involved in law enforcement, or those close to them. Enjoyed and recommend.
September 11, 2014
There was a lot of heart ache with this book, although I do think the sadness aspect drew onto my emotions. It made me almost feel lucky, it made me look at him and think woah sometimes we take some things for granted and honestly this book was an eye opener. Yes, I think there could have been a few more happy endings, but It was a great read and a total tear jerker.
February 28, 2013
So true yet so sad for me to read some of the stories. I know the craziness LEOs face but this brought the fear/pain right up front for me to read. Necessary but just so scary! Melissa, the author, did sign my book & gave some solid advice - that is my fav part of the book!
April 10, 2014
This book hold a plethora of emotions. Melissa Littles has the ability to make you laugh, cry, smile, feel anger, and make you feel your heart in your throat. Great read, not just for the wives of LEO's. Couldn't put it down, I literally read it in 4 hours.
January 11, 2015
I was looking for something supportive... Not all of my worries repeated over and over. Yikes! Not really the "chicken soup" I was hoping for.
December 13, 2015
I recommend this book to any police wives or soon to be police wives. Such an eye opener and realizing my LEO's emotions along with the sisterhood that's out there for me, amazing. Loved it!
April 3, 2017
This book was depressing. I stopped reading it. As a LEO's wife this was not helpful at all.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews