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The Cop Who Fell to Earth
Before eighteen-year-old Craig Semple joined the New South Wales Police Force in 1988, he was someone who preferred to steer clear of trouble. But like so many young police officers, he gradually built resilience to fear through a process of selflessly, and often recklessly, turning towards danger. By the time he started locking horns with some of Australia's most notorious outlaw motorcycle gangs, Craig believed himself to be bulletproof.
After his brother, a rookie police officer, was near-fatally stabbed by a drug dealer in 1998, Craig's life suddenly jumped the track, his fight against drug crime becoming an obsession that took him to the brink of personal, professional and marital destruction. Attempting to give his family and career a new start, he moved to the New South Wales north coast, where he too became the victim of a violent crime, at the hands of outlaw bikies.
Trained and shaped in an era of alcohol abuse and maverick culture within the force, Craig saw just about everything in a career spanning a quarter of a murder, suicide, armed robbery, organised crime and much more. This unforgiving environment would eventually take its toll. After many years struggling with his deteriorating mental health, Craig retired with post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. Ahead of him was a challenging journey that would take him to the lowest point of his life and provide him with an opportunity to find a new purpose inspiring others as a mental health educator.
Craig Semple's story is one of transformation and profound personal growth through exposure to extreme life events. As compelling as a thriller, it is a story of how human endurance, tenacity, sacrifice and belief in something beyond the self ultimately lead to the triumph of good over evil.
After his brother, a rookie police officer, was near-fatally stabbed by a drug dealer in 1998, Craig's life suddenly jumped the track, his fight against drug crime becoming an obsession that took him to the brink of personal, professional and marital destruction. Attempting to give his family and career a new start, he moved to the New South Wales north coast, where he too became the victim of a violent crime, at the hands of outlaw bikies.
Trained and shaped in an era of alcohol abuse and maverick culture within the force, Craig saw just about everything in a career spanning a quarter of a murder, suicide, armed robbery, organised crime and much more. This unforgiving environment would eventually take its toll. After many years struggling with his deteriorating mental health, Craig retired with post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. Ahead of him was a challenging journey that would take him to the lowest point of his life and provide him with an opportunity to find a new purpose inspiring others as a mental health educator.
Craig Semple's story is one of transformation and profound personal growth through exposure to extreme life events. As compelling as a thriller, it is a story of how human endurance, tenacity, sacrifice and belief in something beyond the self ultimately lead to the triumph of good over evil.
- GenresNonfictionBiography
277 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2023
9 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
January 8, 2024
The way he describes details about some investigations he lead makes you feel as though you are there looking over his shoulder. Some incredible investigative work on some of the worst criminals Australia has to offer. But the way he outlines his mental health battles and sprinkles in its development over years is to be commended. Excellent
August 10, 2023
I couldn't put it down.
Real life stories and the affect of policing has on an officer and those around them, especially their family.
I must read for familes of police officers, and police officers themselves.
The sacrifices police officers have for their communties is definately highlighted here.
An account of where you are, where you have been or where you could be.
Real life stories and the affect of policing has on an officer and those around them, especially their family.
I must read for familes of police officers, and police officers themselves.
The sacrifices police officers have for their communties is definately highlighted here.
An account of where you are, where you have been or where you could be.
January 8, 2024
“The Cop Who Fell to Earth" by Craig Semple is not only a thrilling and engaging read, but it is also a heartfelt portrayal of strength and courage. Throughout the book, Craig's experiences in law enforcement are depicted with great detail, showcasing the courageous feats he went through during his time in the force. It is truly an achievement for Craig as both a law enforcement officer and as a person. The book delves into the highs and lows of being a police officer, shedding light on the mental health challenges they face and the incredible strength it takes to prioritise one's well-being. It's a powerful and inspiring story that will leave you with a deep appreciation for the resilience of those in law enforcement. I would highly recommend adding this to your list of books to read, it’s one that once you pick it up, you won’t be able to put it down. It’s captivating and leaves you wanting more- 10/10 I recommend 📚💪😊
January 8, 2024
“The Cop Who Fell to Earth" by Craig Semple is an incredible book that I highly recommend. From the very first page, it had me hooked and I couldn't put it down. This heartfelt story not only showcases the strength and courage of Craig, but also sheds light on the real-life challenges faced by police officers. Craig's personal journey is a testament to his resilience and determination. The book beautifully captures the highs and lows of being in law enforcement, while emphasizing the importance of prioritizing mental health. Trust me, you won't be disappointed with this gripping and inspiring read! 📚💯😊
December 29, 2023
I found this book hard to read because it had parallels with the life my husband and I experienced before he left the force . This is a warts and all recount of life in the police force and the brave journey of self discovery following the author’s medical discharge. The message is that there can be a productive and rewarding life after such a traumatic existence and that mental illness doesn’t necessarily have to destroy or define a person for ever. Well written and engaging but fairly graphic and not for the faint hearted.
September 24, 2023
Fantastic book. I couldn't put it down. I truly admire his bravery in sharing his story through his book and also the work he does as a Mental Health Advocate. As a First Responder myself, I understand the importance of debriefing after a job but sometimes we can't as we are off on our next job.
October 22, 2023
This is a beautiful well written book about recovery from depression and mental health issues.
August 14, 2025
As someone flirting with the idea of meeting Victoria's urgent need for police at a crossroads point in my life, I felt I need to read books that go into the mental health side of policing (I do not yet know if Ill be up to it).
This book was the first I considered, after listening to Craig's excellent podcast on "I catch Killers" I was convinced and wanted to learn more, its a great title also.
The book is a great read, well written and I finished it within a week. It really shines when talking about the police cases and police work Craig excelled at, but also when at the end of the book he goes into his mental health challenges and how he fought his way out it is just as engaging, and inspiring. Some people are made to be a cop and Craig seems one of them, but he is reflective, takes ownership and never fails to acknowledge those who helped him get the success and big wins of his career and life.
It should be required reading for those thinking of joining the police force and the strain it makes on your mental health and relationships. I didnt enjoy the dream or observation starts of his book if I had to pick something. But what a life hes lived, and continues to.
This book was the first I considered, after listening to Craig's excellent podcast on "I catch Killers" I was convinced and wanted to learn more, its a great title also.
The book is a great read, well written and I finished it within a week. It really shines when talking about the police cases and police work Craig excelled at, but also when at the end of the book he goes into his mental health challenges and how he fought his way out it is just as engaging, and inspiring. Some people are made to be a cop and Craig seems one of them, but he is reflective, takes ownership and never fails to acknowledge those who helped him get the success and big wins of his career and life.
It should be required reading for those thinking of joining the police force and the strain it makes on your mental health and relationships. I didnt enjoy the dream or observation starts of his book if I had to pick something. But what a life hes lived, and continues to.
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January 15, 2024Great read, found it hard to put down.
The first two thirds of the book describes the incredible challenges involved, by a detective, in this case the author, in investigating “outlaw motorcycle gangs, homicides and hundreds of other serious crimes” while at the same time endeavouring to live the life of a “normal family man.”
The last third of the book is devoted to the authors “awakening” and acceptance of the fact he had developed a work/stress related mental illness - a psychological condition of fear that was divorced from any concrete or true immediate danger. He describes with honesty the bleakness and devastation of such an illness and then describes the pathway he adopted to slowly turn his life around and so recover love, purpose and meaning again.
Very insightful insightful
The first two thirds of the book describes the incredible challenges involved, by a detective, in this case the author, in investigating “outlaw motorcycle gangs, homicides and hundreds of other serious crimes” while at the same time endeavouring to live the life of a “normal family man.”
The last third of the book is devoted to the authors “awakening” and acceptance of the fact he had developed a work/stress related mental illness - a psychological condition of fear that was divorced from any concrete or true immediate danger. He describes with honesty the bleakness and devastation of such an illness and then describes the pathway he adopted to slowly turn his life around and so recover love, purpose and meaning again.
Very insightful insightful
June 12, 2025
It’s like you’re reading a top notch thriller or police procedural novel, but it’s so much more than this. Superbly written, this is the true story of Craig Semple and his exciting yet harrowing highly successful career in the NSW Police Force. Hearing about Craig’s experiences then segues beautifully into his struggle with PTSD and depression as a result of his repeated exposure to trauma. Perhaps the most impactful part of the book is how Craig is able to move towards wellness and use his experience of trauma and mental illness to help others … lots of them. What a sensational and exceptionally moving story!
August 5, 2024
A book for all, this read gives you an insight into the working life of police officers and the effect on health, family, colleagues and friends.
The author has written in a way that keeps us intrigued, full of emotion, tales that make you smile, others that bring a tear. But through it all the depth of mental health issues that can bring down the toughest of emergency service’s personnel.
A must read for anyone and a definite for retired and serving emergency services staff and their families.
The author has written in a way that keeps us intrigued, full of emotion, tales that make you smile, others that bring a tear. But through it all the depth of mental health issues that can bring down the toughest of emergency service’s personnel.
A must read for anyone and a definite for retired and serving emergency services staff and their families.
May 30, 2024
Sometimes the small things are what tip us over the edge. Everyone can suffer from anxiety and depression no matter what life you lead or profession you choose. Craig has dealt with the baddest of the bad and has realised he is not bullet proof. A great read about his life and struggles. Sometimes a little graphic but it comes with the explanation of why he struggled. Putting it down on paper and reliving those experiences can be either therapeutic or terrifying. Great work Craig and thankyou.
June 14, 2024
Full 5 stars for this honest and down to earth true grit rendition of his life as a dedicated and honest cop. I speak to police regularly and always praise their efforts - as I am usually speaking to them when they are overwhelmed and burned out. We all need officers like Craig, but burnout is high - the horrors they encounter - no normal person will ever see/hear/experience. How Craig took his experience and extensive range of gifts and is now helping others in their journey of recovery.
August 18, 2024
Craig Semple is a natural storyteller. I read a lot of true crime, many by police officers, but until now have never thought of the impact of being a cop in small country towns where criminals may know where you live, who your family members are, where you might socialise…it really is above and beyond. Highly recommend this book to anyone with an interest in Australian true crime. Am very much looking forward to his next book.
January 22, 2026
Great book that I couldn’t put down. Gives a warts and all picture of a police officer’s working life. Describes the camaraderie, the thrill of the hunt for criminals, the all-consuming desire to do a good job, as well as the psychological injury that Craig experienced as a police officer. Really appreciated the mental health aspect of the book, showing that there is hope for mental health recovery for those in the policing arena.
January 11, 2024
What an enthralling read, I enjoyed the book cover to cover. The gripping tension and detail of a cop’s work is laid out in this book. The importance of family ties and the mateship of colleagues comes through, as does the intimate detail of Craig’s state of mind and mental health. Anyone suffering mental health issues could benefit from this book.
August 28, 2025
A true representation of a long police career and the good, bad and the ugly of what came of it during the era of policing at that time in NSWPF.
I hope men in general, let alone in the police or emergency services read this one and take jn the honesty and reality of mental health.
I hope men in general, let alone in the police or emergency services read this one and take jn the honesty and reality of mental health.
February 26, 2024
What an incredible read! Raw and real… A true life super hero who shows that no matter how low life can go , there is always a way back to the top! Craig is an inspiration!
March 24, 2024
Interesting
May 24, 2025
This Man is truly an inspiration.
Loved this book, was inspired by the professionalism of Craig as a writer, not only that but his honesty. I wish him well in the future.
Loved this book, was inspired by the professionalism of Craig as a writer, not only that but his honesty. I wish him well in the future.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews