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Loose Units
Paul Verhoeven's father, John, is a cop. Well, an ex-cop. Decorated and long since retired, John spent years embroiled in some of the seediest, scariest intrigue and escapades imaginable. Paul, however, is something of an artsy, sensitive soul who can’t understand why he doesn’t have the same heroism and courage as his dad. One day, John offers Paul the chance of a lifetime: he'll spill his guts, on tape, for the first time ever, and try to get to the bottom of this difference between them.
What unfolds is a goldmine of true crime stories, showing John’s dramatic (and sometimes dodgy) experience of policing in Sydney in the 1980s. The crims, the car chases, the frequent brushes with death and violence, and the grey zone between what’s ethical and what’s effective: finally Paul gets real insight into what’s formed his father’s character.
Thrilling, fascinating and often laugh-out-loud funny, Loose Units is a high-octane adventure in policing, integrity and learning what your father is really all about.
What unfolds is a goldmine of true crime stories, showing John’s dramatic (and sometimes dodgy) experience of policing in Sydney in the 1980s. The crims, the car chases, the frequent brushes with death and violence, and the grey zone between what’s ethical and what’s effective: finally Paul gets real insight into what’s formed his father’s character.
Thrilling, fascinating and often laugh-out-loud funny, Loose Units is a high-octane adventure in policing, integrity and learning what your father is really all about.
272 pages, Paperback
First published July 30, 2018
34 people are currently reading
301 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
July 3, 2022
I read Verhoeven’s second book, the story of his dad’s career in police forensics last year and I loved it. Loose Units tells the story of John’s early years on the force in Sydney and it doesn’t disappoint. Entertainment is firmly at the centre of Verhoeven’s narrative style, and this is only enhanced in the audio production. Alongside these fast-paced, adrenaline filled vignettes sits some really thoughtful reflection on the pressures of a fairly horrifying job. These narrative threads are balanced effectively. Another zesty read that pleased me.
January 15, 2020
So this is a book that I discovered after Listening to Australian True Crime podcast with Meshel Laurie and Emily Webb. On the Australian True Crime podcast they previewed an episode of “Loose Units”, a podcast with Paul and John Verhoeven about Paul’s father John and his time in the NSW police force in the 80’s.
I was intrigued after listening to just one episode and straight away I started listening to the Loose Units podcast and boy was I glad that I did! I immediately loved the podcast and John and Paul do a great job referring to and spruiking their book all throughout their podcast so I finally capitulated and bought the book!
I wasn’t disappointed one bit. I already had an idea of what the book would be about and what to expect but with the book I got not only fantastic surprises with new stories being told, I also thoroughly enjoyed the twists that I didn’t see coming. It was also nice finally understanding what was being referred to in the podcast when references about the book are being made.
The stories told are somewhat fragmented by Paul “bringing you back in the room” as both he and his father discuss the particular story being depicted as Paul is writing it and I really enjoyed this aspect of the book. Knowing how both Paul and John needle and heckle each other in good humour on the podcast it was great seeing this peppered throughout the book as well.
John recounts some pretty heavy shit of his time during his career as a police officer and now as we, the public, know what we know about corruption during that time in the NSW police force, it was very intriguing getting the insight of a fresh faced rookie trying to make his career during that time.
With the bad comes the good and the hilarious stories and shenanigans that John gets up to gives fantastic comic relief, especially after reading a harrowing story that gives you pause to stop and think what was going through John’s mind at the time and how I would have a lot of difficulty dealing with what he had to see and live every day as a police officer.
What also comes through is Paul’s close relationship with his father and it shines through which is a beautiful thing to see. I commend John for putting it all on the line, dredging up stories from his past he would most likely rather forget and not only sharing with his son but with the general public.
I can’t finish this review without mentioning the true hero of the story, John’s wife Christine. Hard as nails herself I often chuckle about how strong a women Christine must be putting up with some of the shenanigans John got up to. I would thoroughly enjoy Christines commentary about some of the stories in this book so we can hear about it from her side (especially when she clobbered a bloke with a chair to save Johns skin) and I’m sure Paul will convince his mum to recount her own stories at some point.
A fantastic insight into a police officers career during a tumultuous time in the police force, Johns sardonic black humour always gave me a smile and a chuckle as I read. Rove McManus wasn’t wrong when he said that you will wish your own dad was a cop too.
I was intrigued after listening to just one episode and straight away I started listening to the Loose Units podcast and boy was I glad that I did! I immediately loved the podcast and John and Paul do a great job referring to and spruiking their book all throughout their podcast so I finally capitulated and bought the book!
I wasn’t disappointed one bit. I already had an idea of what the book would be about and what to expect but with the book I got not only fantastic surprises with new stories being told, I also thoroughly enjoyed the twists that I didn’t see coming. It was also nice finally understanding what was being referred to in the podcast when references about the book are being made.
The stories told are somewhat fragmented by Paul “bringing you back in the room” as both he and his father discuss the particular story being depicted as Paul is writing it and I really enjoyed this aspect of the book. Knowing how both Paul and John needle and heckle each other in good humour on the podcast it was great seeing this peppered throughout the book as well.
John recounts some pretty heavy shit of his time during his career as a police officer and now as we, the public, know what we know about corruption during that time in the NSW police force, it was very intriguing getting the insight of a fresh faced rookie trying to make his career during that time.
With the bad comes the good and the hilarious stories and shenanigans that John gets up to gives fantastic comic relief, especially after reading a harrowing story that gives you pause to stop and think what was going through John’s mind at the time and how I would have a lot of difficulty dealing with what he had to see and live every day as a police officer.
What also comes through is Paul’s close relationship with his father and it shines through which is a beautiful thing to see. I commend John for putting it all on the line, dredging up stories from his past he would most likely rather forget and not only sharing with his son but with the general public.
I can’t finish this review without mentioning the true hero of the story, John’s wife Christine. Hard as nails herself I often chuckle about how strong a women Christine must be putting up with some of the shenanigans John got up to. I would thoroughly enjoy Christines commentary about some of the stories in this book so we can hear about it from her side (especially when she clobbered a bloke with a chair to save Johns skin) and I’m sure Paul will convince his mum to recount her own stories at some point.
A fantastic insight into a police officers career during a tumultuous time in the police force, Johns sardonic black humour always gave me a smile and a chuckle as I read. Rove McManus wasn’t wrong when he said that you will wish your own dad was a cop too.
July 7, 2019
This was such a fun read. Being a Sydney local myself and knowing the North Sydney and city areas very well made everything a little more exciting. I just wish there was more!
October 14, 2018
Paul tells (some) of his father's stories from his days in the NSW police force during the 80s; how he met Paul's mother Christine, and through this incredibly funny, sad, and enthralling journey, makes sense.of his dad, and himself. It's not as cheesy as it sounds, but so so real and sincere - the asides where he breaks narrative to talk about the side conversations that happened during the taping of the conversations that would form the framework for the writing of the book - are well timed, hilarious, insightful and meaningful. I laughed out loud countless times and sobbed so hard I thought my heart would break. I sincerely hope there will be 17 more volumes of these stories. I feel like 2 of my best friends have just gone back home and left me with nothing but memories and questions. Please write more, Paul!
September 27, 2018
So good. So damn funny. I know Paul is an amazing writer because I've been reading his pieces for years now, and in this leap to writing a full-length book, he hasn't lost any of the charm or humour that I appreciate about his work. There were more than a few moments where I let out a shockingly loud bark of laughter.
I thought I'd read a little every few days in between classes and pace it out. I ended up staying awake until 2am to finish it on the day I bought it.
I thought I'd read a little every few days in between classes and pace it out. I ended up staying awake until 2am to finish it on the day I bought it.
August 9, 2018
Every time I thought I knew what this book was, it would change again. One minute your laughing, the next minute your crying your eyes out. The stories are really interesting and the characters jump off the page. I wish more Australian true crime was like this. Loved it.
May 31, 2019
Makes you want to interview your own dad and write a book about him.
June 16, 2019
Speechless! Being a Sydney sider, every scene was so vivid. The book builds and gets more exciting, hilarious and scary at the same time. Far out, the 80’s NSW police force was wild.
August 6, 2019
GREAT book! A funny and eye opening look into the NSW police force in the 80s.
January 8, 2021
Firstly, there is a fair bit of language in this book so if that offends you, don’t read it. That said, it is a GEM of a book. The true story of how John became a cop in Australia in the 80s. And it’s written as John tells his son Paul his exploits. The relationship between father and son is truly enviable and Paul does an amazing job of telling part of his dad’s life story. This book has grit, crime, romance, adventure, and a huge handful of humor.
October 28, 2018
3.5 stars.
Interesting
Eye-opener
Amusing
Interesting
Eye-opener
Amusing
December 9, 2019
Loose units provides a really interesting glimpse into the life of a police officer, including all of the dodgy stuff that civilians don't necessarily see or read about. The book was largely enjoyable. The only thing that I didn't always like about the book was the author's insistence on making almost everything into a joke. It almost felt at times like he needed to remind the audience that he himself was funny, instead of just letting the story be the story. There were definite opportunities for humour and they were seized upon but there were also other occasions where a joke was forced and completely unnecessary.
All in all Loose Units is an enjoyable and, at times, wonderfully poignant read.
3.5/5
All in all Loose Units is an enjoyable and, at times, wonderfully poignant read.
3.5/5
August 11, 2018
A clean cop in a dirty time unloads his tough stories to his artsy son, who’s always wondered why he’s not made of sterner stuff, himself. What an absolute treat. I read it fast, which was easy because it’s excellently paced while pausing occasionally for some touching moments. Run through with humour, this is an easy but memorable read. Here’s hoping for more from the author and his father. It feels like they’ve only scratched the surface.
October 31, 2020
Despite being a bit disjointed and hard to follow at times, this book rocketed along at breakneck speed and I had a rollicking good time reading it. I guess in a lot of ways the book is like John and Paul - funny, irreverent and easily distracted! I thoroughly enjoy their podcast and I look forward to reading the next book.
February 20, 2019
Good read, made more interesting because its set in the part of SYDNEY I grew up in. Mini spoiler: the author gets some of the geography wrong.
Not as good as listening to the Loose Units podcast!
Regards,
Peter
Not as good as listening to the Loose Units podcast!
Regards,
Peter
January 27, 2020
It was interesting and a glimpse into a way of Policing long since removed.
However it was lacking in any real substance. And the authors insistence on trivialising every incident, or perhaps making every incident have a comedic portion cheapened his fathers story.
However it was lacking in any real substance. And the authors insistence on trivialising every incident, or perhaps making every incident have a comedic portion cheapened his fathers story.
January 7, 2020
This was not the book for me. A big sigh of relief when I actually reached the ending.
So, what was wrong with this book. A few things but mostly, I will admit, the genre was totally wrong for me. Another person may like the crude and rude language of the book. But will they love the constant need to make everything funny? The book tells of the corrupt male dominated NSW police force in the 1980s. It could have been such a fascinating read had it been told on a serious note allowing for interesting characters to come to the fore. Instead it was a series of unrelated anecdotes told macho style trying desperately to be humorous.
I cannot recommend this book.
So, what was wrong with this book. A few things but mostly, I will admit, the genre was totally wrong for me. Another person may like the crude and rude language of the book. But will they love the constant need to make everything funny? The book tells of the corrupt male dominated NSW police force in the 1980s. It could have been such a fascinating read had it been told on a serious note allowing for interesting characters to come to the fore. Instead it was a series of unrelated anecdotes told macho style trying desperately to be humorous.
I cannot recommend this book.
December 29, 2020
Loved it! I’ve been binging the podcast the past few weeks , so my lovely hubby bought me the book.
People say in a lot of the reviews, that it’s disjointed.
But as a sufferer of adult ADHD, diagnosed in my late 40’s, I think Paul is right, that his dad also has ADHD. That’s how John’s brain seems to operate, a bit all over the place, gets side tracked mid story etc etc.
I loved it, it was a great read and I’ll be purchasing Electric Blue next!
Keep up the great work Paul & John, I’ll never tire of listening to you guys!
People say in a lot of the reviews, that it’s disjointed.
But as a sufferer of adult ADHD, diagnosed in my late 40’s, I think Paul is right, that his dad also has ADHD. That’s how John’s brain seems to operate, a bit all over the place, gets side tracked mid story etc etc.
I loved it, it was a great read and I’ll be purchasing Electric Blue next!
Keep up the great work Paul & John, I’ll never tire of listening to you guys!
January 3, 2021
I listened to the podcast with the same title before buying this book. It made me laugh and I thought I'd give the book a try. The book is written by the son of a police officer who worked in Sydney in the 80s. It was very light-hearted in the beginning but there are a couple of stories at the end that were quite horrific. None-the-less is was an interesting read and I enjoyed reading it. There were quite a few laugh out loud moments just like in the podcast - the ending was terrific!
August 24, 2020
I listened to the podcast first, so didn't think I'd be all that surprised by the book. But Paul is an exceptional writer, and his father's stories are much better off the page. Some chapters were a little short for me. But suited my husband. Second book is my favourite. Hope we get a 3rd. Highly reccomened.
October 1, 2020
Absolutely loved this book, as did my hubby. I listened to the audio book, and Paul does an excellent narration (plus I'm a sucker for a nice Aussie accent.)
I'm a huge fan of the podcast, so it's great having a whole book to listen to while I do chores. Paul and John seem like genuinely kind, hilarious guys, and it's nice to see the love and chemistry between father and son.
I'm a huge fan of the podcast, so it's great having a whole book to listen to while I do chores. Paul and John seem like genuinely kind, hilarious guys, and it's nice to see the love and chemistry between father and son.
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December 17, 2021I can’t rate this book. It made my stomach churn. Honestly, it was such a confronting read. There are some horrible, awful, disgusting cops out there… and some dark, dark people. I am happy to close this book and return to my cosy little bubble of reality. I actually feel quite nauseous after the final chapter! There is no way I could be a cop.
January 16, 2019
I have been reading a range of crime stories lately but this one was the best! It was an amazing story to read but also intercepted with humour and truth throughout. I loved the changes from story to Paul hearing the story and will forever use ‘hamburger cream’ instead of mayonaise! Loved it!
December 7, 2019
What an amazing book. It had me engaged the whole way and laughing or gasping out loud at some of the insane things that Paul experienced in his career. Love the father and son dynamic these two have and it makes for an awesome podcast too!
March 2, 2020
After listening to the podcast I thought there may be a bit of repetition but it was actually really good and carried the same warmth between Paul and John and hilarious and somewhat gruesome and shocking stories. 👍 well done
July 4, 2020
I love the podcast series but the book was a let-down. Maybe because Paul was formerly a children's TV show host, and it's the style he is comfortable with, the book reads more like a detective caper written for teenagers, rather than a gritty true-crime story written for adults.
August 18, 2020
A delightful read, funny with some touching moments artfully dropped in. I listened to the audiobook, narrated by the author-- his experience in podcasting and journalism make him quite entertaining and effective. Looking forward to reading the sequel ("Electric Blue").
September 22, 2020
Laughed and cried with this read. I really appreciated the humour as I'm sure humour is crucial to surviving the horrors of police work. It was a genuine pleasure experiencing the father son dynamic. Also appreciated the insight into 80s policing.
September 5, 2021
A funny and often scary look at the Sydney police force in the 1980's as told by the author's father. It's not only an insight into the force, but a family getting to know one another through stories and togetherness.
July 22, 2022
Gripping storytelling at its best
A great reason both Sydney Police stories in the 80's and a father and son bonding. I found the book fascinating and well told. It sucked me into the old Policing world with ease and holy shizballs moments.
A great reason both Sydney Police stories in the 80's and a father and son bonding. I found the book fascinating and well told. It sucked me into the old Policing world with ease and holy shizballs moments.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews