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The Blue View: The Uncut Journal of an Ohio Police Chief
“The hardest thing about being a police officer is you have to solve everyone else’s problems when you can’t even solve your own.”
This book is an unedited and raw journal written by a police officer over a thirty-year period. From his first day in the police academy to his last day as the Chief of Police in Middletown, Ohio, home of Hillbilly Elegy, you will feel as though you are right there with the author through the entire book, in a uniform, in a cruiser, and in his personal life.
Never written to be released to the public, this easy to read format portrays the actual unfiltered personal journals of Chief Rodney Muterspaw, an award-winning Ohio Police Chief and Congressional guest at the Presidential State of the Union. You will feel the gamut of emotions as you follow him as a rookie, a patrol officer, investigator, narcotics officer, internal affairs supervisor, a Chief of Police, and a parent in one of the most well-known smaller cities in the Midwest.
The Blue View will draw you in emotionally, as you will finally have access to the behind-the-scenes thoughts and experiences that most police officers will not talk about. It doesn’t matter what side you are on, it is a must read. It will change the way you think about law enforcement.
MORE ABOUT THE BLUE VIEW
Rodney Muterspaw was, for decades, a pillar of the community in Middletown—rising from junior officer on the Middletown Police force to chief during the height of the opioid epidemic. And for that entire time, he kept this incredible diary, chronicling the highs, lows, and hilarious moments of community policing. In these pages, you gain an appreciation for him, the man.
— J. D. Vance, Author of the New York Times Best Seller and Netflix Blockbuster, Hillbilly Elegy.
Breathtaking! I grew up in the same streets as Muterspaw, but many years before he did. His vivid writing and perceptive storytelling help me to see its changes—its tragedies and its triumphs—through the world of its police. Part police drama, part social study, the chief offers valuable insights into what works and what doesn’t for the cops in an economically struggling rust belt town.
— Clarence Page, 1989 Pulitzer Prize-Winning syndicated columnist and senior member of the Chicago Tribune editorial board.
The Blue View presents a view of policing that is unlike anything I have ever read before. Beyond the good, the bad, and the ugly, Muterspaw has tracked his career in a raw and unvarnished way that will make you laugh and cry. While his self-deprecating sense of humor is the driving force of the book, he uses it to highlight real problems and real solutions within the increasingly complex world of policing.
— Stephen Robert Morse, Emmy Nominated Producer of Netflix’s Amanda Knox.
Jaw dropping! A truly honest look into a police officer’s personal world. Rewarding, heartbreaking, comical and inspiring! I laughed, I cried, and I loved it! A must read!
— Karin Johnson, WLWT Cincinnati News.
Incredibly raw, and shockingly real! Muterspaw explores the trials and tribulations of being a cop in the heartland. With an open and honest viewpoint, he holds nothing back. From his unique perspective he highlights the good, the bad, and the ugly of policing, while sprinkling in enough humor to keep the mood light.
— J. W. Cox, Award-winning writer/director, Average Joe Films.
This book portrays the reality of a rust-belt American as seen by a steel town police chief who for decades suited up to face the strengths and weaknesses of the city known as home to Hillbilly Elegy. He is a discerning, compassionate man, a good writer, and portrays life witnessed through the eyes of the Blue.
— Van Gordon Sauter, Former President, CBS News.
This book is an unedited and raw journal written by a police officer over a thirty-year period. From his first day in the police academy to his last day as the Chief of Police in Middletown, Ohio, home of Hillbilly Elegy, you will feel as though you are right there with the author through the entire book, in a uniform, in a cruiser, and in his personal life.
Never written to be released to the public, this easy to read format portrays the actual unfiltered personal journals of Chief Rodney Muterspaw, an award-winning Ohio Police Chief and Congressional guest at the Presidential State of the Union. You will feel the gamut of emotions as you follow him as a rookie, a patrol officer, investigator, narcotics officer, internal affairs supervisor, a Chief of Police, and a parent in one of the most well-known smaller cities in the Midwest.
The Blue View will draw you in emotionally, as you will finally have access to the behind-the-scenes thoughts and experiences that most police officers will not talk about. It doesn’t matter what side you are on, it is a must read. It will change the way you think about law enforcement.
MORE ABOUT THE BLUE VIEW
Rodney Muterspaw was, for decades, a pillar of the community in Middletown—rising from junior officer on the Middletown Police force to chief during the height of the opioid epidemic. And for that entire time, he kept this incredible diary, chronicling the highs, lows, and hilarious moments of community policing. In these pages, you gain an appreciation for him, the man.
— J. D. Vance, Author of the New York Times Best Seller and Netflix Blockbuster, Hillbilly Elegy.
Breathtaking! I grew up in the same streets as Muterspaw, but many years before he did. His vivid writing and perceptive storytelling help me to see its changes—its tragedies and its triumphs—through the world of its police. Part police drama, part social study, the chief offers valuable insights into what works and what doesn’t for the cops in an economically struggling rust belt town.
— Clarence Page, 1989 Pulitzer Prize-Winning syndicated columnist and senior member of the Chicago Tribune editorial board.
The Blue View presents a view of policing that is unlike anything I have ever read before. Beyond the good, the bad, and the ugly, Muterspaw has tracked his career in a raw and unvarnished way that will make you laugh and cry. While his self-deprecating sense of humor is the driving force of the book, he uses it to highlight real problems and real solutions within the increasingly complex world of policing.
— Stephen Robert Morse, Emmy Nominated Producer of Netflix’s Amanda Knox.
Jaw dropping! A truly honest look into a police officer’s personal world. Rewarding, heartbreaking, comical and inspiring! I laughed, I cried, and I loved it! A must read!
— Karin Johnson, WLWT Cincinnati News.
Incredibly raw, and shockingly real! Muterspaw explores the trials and tribulations of being a cop in the heartland. With an open and honest viewpoint, he holds nothing back. From his unique perspective he highlights the good, the bad, and the ugly of policing, while sprinkling in enough humor to keep the mood light.
— J. W. Cox, Award-winning writer/director, Average Joe Films.
This book portrays the reality of a rust-belt American as seen by a steel town police chief who for decades suited up to face the strengths and weaknesses of the city known as home to Hillbilly Elegy. He is a discerning, compassionate man, a good writer, and portrays life witnessed through the eyes of the Blue.
— Van Gordon Sauter, Former President, CBS News.
- GenresBiography
276 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 27, 2020
59 people are currently reading
79 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
August 20, 2022
Rodney Muterspaw (hereafter R.M.) worked for the
Middletown Ohio Police Dept. x 30 years He started as
a patrolman & over time worked his way up to Chief
of Police. He kept a journal as a stress reliver & it
eventually became this book.
R.M. thought being a policeman didn't require a Bachelor's
or other degree. He voiced an ideal cop had: empathy, 'street
smarts,' common sense, was a good listener and able to de-
escalate thorny situations. A police recruit looked good on
paper: police training, passed a psychological, intelligent,
personable, however a lie detector test revealed him to be a
rotter IE a child abuser. This man was arrested.
The author's writings covered guns, domestic violence, child
abuse, informants, race relations, police: perks, groupies, &
citizen complaints. Also homeless people, poor people, the
media, social media, use of force. And stress unique to the
police. R.M. himself was treated for clinical depression.
His career had wit+ grit. He showed extra compassion for
kids + the elderly. He gave examples of juvenile pranks
police pulled on each other, and ethical dilemmas they faced
(some may have resolved these differently).
He offered deadly force alternatives IE bean bags, chemicals,
tasers. And he tried not to make snap judgments of suspects.
He saw the irony of a police officer's marriage crumbling +
then he/ she was assigned to sort out a domestic violence
call. I think I better understand a police officer's complex
role after reading this.
Middletown Ohio Police Dept. x 30 years He started as
a patrolman & over time worked his way up to Chief
of Police. He kept a journal as a stress reliver & it
eventually became this book.
R.M. thought being a policeman didn't require a Bachelor's
or other degree. He voiced an ideal cop had: empathy, 'street
smarts,' common sense, was a good listener and able to de-
escalate thorny situations. A police recruit looked good on
paper: police training, passed a psychological, intelligent,
personable, however a lie detector test revealed him to be a
rotter IE a child abuser. This man was arrested.
The author's writings covered guns, domestic violence, child
abuse, informants, race relations, police: perks, groupies, &
citizen complaints. Also homeless people, poor people, the
media, social media, use of force. And stress unique to the
police. R.M. himself was treated for clinical depression.
His career had wit+ grit. He showed extra compassion for
kids + the elderly. He gave examples of juvenile pranks
police pulled on each other, and ethical dilemmas they faced
(some may have resolved these differently).
He offered deadly force alternatives IE bean bags, chemicals,
tasers. And he tried not to make snap judgments of suspects.
He saw the irony of a police officer's marriage crumbling +
then he/ she was assigned to sort out a domestic violence
call. I think I better understand a police officer's complex
role after reading this.
December 28, 2020
Once I started reading this book, I honestly couldn't put it down. It truly was an incredible read - an emotional rollercoaster. It definitely gave me a new respect for police officers - an insight into all that they experience, things that I think the public never stops to think about. I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book, and it exceeded my expectations.
December 27, 2020
“The hardest thing about being a police officer is you have to solve everyone else’s problems when you can’t even solve your own.”
This book is an unedited and raw journal written by a police officer over a thirty-year period. From his first day in the police academy to his last day as the Chief of Police in Middletown, Ohio, home of Hillbilly Elegy, you will feel as though you are right there with the author through the entire book, in a uniform, in a cruiser, and in his personal life.
Never written to be released to the public, this easy to read format portrays the actual unfiltered personal journals of Chief Rodney Muterspaw, an award-winning Ohio Police Chief and Congressional guest at the Presidential State of the Union. You will feel the gamut of emotions as you follow him as a rookie, a patrol officer, investigator, narcotics officer, internal affairs supervisor, a Chief of Police, and a parent in one of the most well-known smaller cities in the Midwest.
The Blue View will draw you in emotionally, as you will finally have access to the behind-the-scenes thoughts and experiences that most police officers will not talk about. It doesn’t matter what side you are on, it is a must read. It will change the way you think about law enforcement.
MORE ABOUT THE BLUE VIEW
Rodney Muterspaw was, for decades, a pillar of the community in Middletown—rising from junior officer on the Middletown Police force to chief during the height of the opioid epidemic. And for that entire time, he kept this incredible diary, chronicling the highs, lows, and hilarious moments of community policing. In these pages, you gain an appreciation for him, the man.
— J. D. Vance, Author of the New York Times Best Seller and Netflix Blockbuster, Hillbilly Elegy.
Breathtaking! I grew up in the same streets as Muterspaw, but many years before he did. His vivid writing and perceptive storytelling help me to see its changes—its tragedies and its triumphs—through the world of its police. Part police drama, part social study, the chief offers valuable insights into what works and what doesn’t for the cops in an economically struggling rust belt town.
— Clarence Page, 1989 Pulitzer Prize-Winning syndicated columnist and senior member of the Chicago Tribune editorial board.
The Blue View presents a view of policing that is unlike anything I have ever read before. Beyond the good, the bad, and the ugly, Muterspaw has tracked his career in a raw and unvarnished way that will make you laugh and cry. While his self-deprecating sense of humor is the driving force of the book, he uses it to highlight real problems and real solutions within the increasingly complex world of policing.
— Stephen Robert Morse, Emmy Nominated Producer of Netflix’s Amanda Knox.
Jaw dropping! A truly honest look into a police officer’s personal world. Rewarding, heartbreaking, comical and inspiring! I laughed, I cried, and I loved it! A must read!
— Karin Johnson, WLWT Cincinnati News.
Incredibly raw, and shockingly real! Muterspaw explores the trials and tribulations of being a cop in the heartland. With an open and honest viewpoint, he holds nothing back. From his unique perspective he highlights the good, the bad, and the ugly of policing, while sprinkling in enough humor to keep the mood light.
— J. W. Cox, Award-winning writer/director, Average Joe Films.
This book portrays the reality of a rust-belt American as seen by a steel town police chief who for decades suited up to face the strengths and weaknesses of the city known as home to Hillbilly Elegy. He is a discerning, compassionate man, a good writer, and portrays life witnessed through the eyes of the Blue.
— Van Gordon Sauter, Former President, CBS News.
This book is an unedited and raw journal written by a police officer over a thirty-year period. From his first day in the police academy to his last day as the Chief of Police in Middletown, Ohio, home of Hillbilly Elegy, you will feel as though you are right there with the author through the entire book, in a uniform, in a cruiser, and in his personal life.
Never written to be released to the public, this easy to read format portrays the actual unfiltered personal journals of Chief Rodney Muterspaw, an award-winning Ohio Police Chief and Congressional guest at the Presidential State of the Union. You will feel the gamut of emotions as you follow him as a rookie, a patrol officer, investigator, narcotics officer, internal affairs supervisor, a Chief of Police, and a parent in one of the most well-known smaller cities in the Midwest.
The Blue View will draw you in emotionally, as you will finally have access to the behind-the-scenes thoughts and experiences that most police officers will not talk about. It doesn’t matter what side you are on, it is a must read. It will change the way you think about law enforcement.
MORE ABOUT THE BLUE VIEW
Rodney Muterspaw was, for decades, a pillar of the community in Middletown—rising from junior officer on the Middletown Police force to chief during the height of the opioid epidemic. And for that entire time, he kept this incredible diary, chronicling the highs, lows, and hilarious moments of community policing. In these pages, you gain an appreciation for him, the man.
— J. D. Vance, Author of the New York Times Best Seller and Netflix Blockbuster, Hillbilly Elegy.
Breathtaking! I grew up in the same streets as Muterspaw, but many years before he did. His vivid writing and perceptive storytelling help me to see its changes—its tragedies and its triumphs—through the world of its police. Part police drama, part social study, the chief offers valuable insights into what works and what doesn’t for the cops in an economically struggling rust belt town.
— Clarence Page, 1989 Pulitzer Prize-Winning syndicated columnist and senior member of the Chicago Tribune editorial board.
The Blue View presents a view of policing that is unlike anything I have ever read before. Beyond the good, the bad, and the ugly, Muterspaw has tracked his career in a raw and unvarnished way that will make you laugh and cry. While his self-deprecating sense of humor is the driving force of the book, he uses it to highlight real problems and real solutions within the increasingly complex world of policing.
— Stephen Robert Morse, Emmy Nominated Producer of Netflix’s Amanda Knox.
Jaw dropping! A truly honest look into a police officer’s personal world. Rewarding, heartbreaking, comical and inspiring! I laughed, I cried, and I loved it! A must read!
— Karin Johnson, WLWT Cincinnati News.
Incredibly raw, and shockingly real! Muterspaw explores the trials and tribulations of being a cop in the heartland. With an open and honest viewpoint, he holds nothing back. From his unique perspective he highlights the good, the bad, and the ugly of policing, while sprinkling in enough humor to keep the mood light.
— J. W. Cox, Award-winning writer/director, Average Joe Films.
This book portrays the reality of a rust-belt American as seen by a steel town police chief who for decades suited up to face the strengths and weaknesses of the city known as home to Hillbilly Elegy. He is a discerning, compassionate man, a good writer, and portrays life witnessed through the eyes of the Blue.
— Van Gordon Sauter, Former President, CBS News.
April 17, 2025
From the very first page, this book hits you with raw honesty and grit. It’s not your typical cop memoir—it’s unfiltered, unedited, and deeply personal. My first impression, I was hooked by the realness. This isn’t some polished PR piece; it’s a human being pouring out 30 years of life, struggle, mistakes, and service in a journal he never meant to publish. You walk beside him—from rookie to Chief—in a town that’s seen its fair share of pain and resilience.
The storyline unfolds like a living diary, blending powerful anecdotes with everyday encounters. It moves through his time in narcotics, internal affairs, and eventually leadership—while never shying away from the emotional toll it took on his mental health and personal life. Author’s writing style is clear, humble, and often laced with humor—sometimes laugh-out-loud funny, other times heartbreakingly candid. The theme, Humanity behind the badge. It dives deep into the reality that officers carry their own burdens even as they’re expected to solve everyone else’s.
Personally, this book left me with a new level of respect—not just for Muterspaw, but for every cop out there quietly doing the job. It made me laugh, reflect, and yes, cry. This is not a book about politics or agendas; it’s a story about a man navigating life in uniform. In conclusion, The Blue View is raw, real, and unforgettable—a must-read whether you’re pro-cop, skeptical, or somewhere in between. Prepare to have your perspective challenged—and your heart opened.
The storyline unfolds like a living diary, blending powerful anecdotes with everyday encounters. It moves through his time in narcotics, internal affairs, and eventually leadership—while never shying away from the emotional toll it took on his mental health and personal life. Author’s writing style is clear, humble, and often laced with humor—sometimes laugh-out-loud funny, other times heartbreakingly candid. The theme, Humanity behind the badge. It dives deep into the reality that officers carry their own burdens even as they’re expected to solve everyone else’s.
Personally, this book left me with a new level of respect—not just for Muterspaw, but for every cop out there quietly doing the job. It made me laugh, reflect, and yes, cry. This is not a book about politics or agendas; it’s a story about a man navigating life in uniform. In conclusion, The Blue View is raw, real, and unforgettable—a must-read whether you’re pro-cop, skeptical, or somewhere in between. Prepare to have your perspective challenged—and your heart opened.
December 29, 2021
I read this to research what life might be like for a police officer/detective in a medium-sized US city, as part of of preparing to write a detective mystery novel. I was beyond satisfied with this book. Former Chief Muterspaw writes eloquently about his experiences as a new officer, a detective, and a chief. His writerly voice is distinctive and authentic. I felt the real person behind this book and was reminded that there is a real person behind every badge that we might see, from a traffic stop that we experience ourselves, to a "shit-storm" of media coverage that results when a law enforcement officer chooses to end a life - either justifiably or otherwise. Muterspaw humanizes himself, other officers, politicians, chronic criminals and/or people who commit a single crime in what was otherwise a law-abiding life. Wherever "Mute" turns his attention, he does it with insight and humor and humility; even when he's understandably brought low by witnessing the worst that humans can do to other humans, he tries to comprehend why someone might be driven to such an act and how we as a society, including LE officers, can do a better job of preventing these acts and prosecuting them after the fact (rather than just merely lashing out at the "scumbags," which would be very, very tempting to do in the case of terrible crimes against the defenseless). I would very much recommend this book to anyone who seeks a better understanding of law enforcement officers. Especially in this time when so many seek - justifiably - to reform policing in a way that will better benefit everyone, this former police officer offers an inside view of policing - the good, the bad, the ugly - from a authentically good police officer and human being that is truly educational.
August 31, 2021
DO YOURSELF A FAVOR: BUY THIS BOOK!!!
I was fascinated by the insight into a cop's workday, as well as his viewpoint about said workday. Chief Muterspaw writes in a very reader friendly style which is punctuated with humor, and thought-provoking. I found myself questioning my prior perception of law enforcement multiple times. Having read this book, I gained a great deal of respect, empathy, and appreciation for what the men and women of law enforcement do for their communities every day. I strongly recommend the purchase of this book for an interesting, enjoyable read.
I was fascinated by the insight into a cop's workday, as well as his viewpoint about said workday. Chief Muterspaw writes in a very reader friendly style which is punctuated with humor, and thought-provoking. I found myself questioning my prior perception of law enforcement multiple times. Having read this book, I gained a great deal of respect, empathy, and appreciation for what the men and women of law enforcement do for their communities every day. I strongly recommend the purchase of this book for an interesting, enjoyable read.
October 10, 2021
This book took me awhile to finish, however, it was definitely an interesting read. I had a love/hate relationship with the way it was written. The entire book is written in a journal format (bullet note - writing). It was neat because it made it a quick interesting read. I didn't like it because some of the stories I wanted more. I wanted to know how it ended or what happened next. We live super close to Middletown and know the reputation it has. It was pretty neat to see the stories from the other spectrum though. We look at them one way as an outsider and he has the inside scoop of how he felt or would feel during certain situations that you can relate to the world today.
April 18, 2025
This book was nothing what I expected. I read it at the advice of a friend who lives in Ohio. Not a huge fan of the police, but after reading this I really felt like I knew and had a better understanding of what the police do.
An absolutely amazing read from start to finish, you won’t want to put the book down. I honestly felt like I knew this police chief when it was all said and done. Honest, vulnerable and very direct into the point on tough issues to talk about. I want a damn sequel immediately!
An absolutely amazing read from start to finish, you won’t want to put the book down. I honestly felt like I knew this police chief when it was all said and done. Honest, vulnerable and very direct into the point on tough issues to talk about. I want a damn sequel immediately!
January 10, 2021
Excellent memoir of a caring police officer
This is an excellent memoir of a police officer who deeply cared about his city and it's citizens. He reveals the good, the bad, and the ugly about police officers. He conveys the joys and heart breaks of policing. I highly recommend this book.
This is an excellent memoir of a police officer who deeply cared about his city and it's citizens. He reveals the good, the bad, and the ugly about police officers. He conveys the joys and heart breaks of policing. I highly recommend this book.
January 7, 2021
Raw. Real. Human. I loved this book. So much respect for the brave men and women who do a job I could never do. I don't know how they do it, but I am so grateful that they do.
February 20, 2021
Alive and authentic. You want to buy a beer for this good man.
April 27, 2021
Great book. It should be mandatory reading in all police academies. If the ACAB crowd would read this they would realize how wrong they are.
March 29, 2025
Rodney Muterspaw's The Blue View: The Uncut Journal of an Ohio Police Chief is a gritty and unvarnished account of life behind the badge. In contrast to the frequently romanticized depictions of law enforcement in popular culture, this book offers a raw, unvarnished look at the problems, ethical conundrums, and emotional costs that are part of the job. Muterspaw's prose is at once readable and introspective, weaving between personal anecdotes and profound considerations on what it is actually like to be a policeman. His eye is not solely that of one enforcing the law, but that of a commander, a trainer, and an officer making one's way in the tricky, thankless arena of contemporary policing.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its capacity to humanize police officers, revealing their fears, struggles, and inner turmoil beneath the uniform. Muterspaw does not hesitate to address contentious issues, which makes his observations all the more compelling. His writing is engaging, although sometimes the story reads more like an anecdote than a well-constructed narrative, which might not be to every reader's taste. But this nakedly personal approach gives the book credibility, the impression of an impassioned monologue rather than an official chronicle.
Overall, The Blue View is a must-read for anyone who has an interest in law enforcement, criminal justice, or leadership within high-stress environments. It's a unique, behind-the-scenes glimpse into a world that is misunderstood by many, and thus both an informative and highly emotional read. Although the book could have been improved with a more organized format, its honesty, depth, and insight make it a well-worth and impactful read.
One of the book's greatest strengths is its capacity to humanize police officers, revealing their fears, struggles, and inner turmoil beneath the uniform. Muterspaw does not hesitate to address contentious issues, which makes his observations all the more compelling. His writing is engaging, although sometimes the story reads more like an anecdote than a well-constructed narrative, which might not be to every reader's taste. But this nakedly personal approach gives the book credibility, the impression of an impassioned monologue rather than an official chronicle.
Overall, The Blue View is a must-read for anyone who has an interest in law enforcement, criminal justice, or leadership within high-stress environments. It's a unique, behind-the-scenes glimpse into a world that is misunderstood by many, and thus both an informative and highly emotional read. Although the book could have been improved with a more organized format, its honesty, depth, and insight make it a well-worth and impactful read.
April 14, 2025
Book Review: The Blue View by Rodney Muterspaw
In The Blue View: The Uncut Journal of an Ohio Police Chief, one might be hard-pressed to find a grimmer, no-holds-barred memoir providing the seldom-glimpsed inside view of American-style law enforcement. Covering three decades of journal reflections, Rodney Muterspaw chronicles his metamorphosis from rookie cop to Chief of Police in Middletown, Ohio, in an emotionally charged and insightful narrative.
The Blue View is distinguished by its frankness. Muterspaw does not sugarcoat the badge or dodge moral quandaries. He presents a brutally honest, fully human panorama of life behind the uniform, with its moral dilemmas, emotional tolls, and the often-misunderstood burden of leadership. The stories go from intense drug busts to personal reflections on doubt and growth, fast and personal at the same time.
His writing is blunt and chatty, like a late-night chat with a friend, never a memoir in the polish sense. Such a technique provides authenticity, drawing readers into a world that is otherwise cliché. The readers witness through Muterspaw's lens not just the professional sacrifices and challenges but also the personal sacrifices demanded by a career in policing.
Regardless of your orientation-whether you support law enforcement, take the opposite view, or simply wonder about how the police work today-The Blue View is powerful food for thought that challenges the reader's assumptions and provokes contemplation. Highly recommended.
In The Blue View: The Uncut Journal of an Ohio Police Chief, one might be hard-pressed to find a grimmer, no-holds-barred memoir providing the seldom-glimpsed inside view of American-style law enforcement. Covering three decades of journal reflections, Rodney Muterspaw chronicles his metamorphosis from rookie cop to Chief of Police in Middletown, Ohio, in an emotionally charged and insightful narrative.
The Blue View is distinguished by its frankness. Muterspaw does not sugarcoat the badge or dodge moral quandaries. He presents a brutally honest, fully human panorama of life behind the uniform, with its moral dilemmas, emotional tolls, and the often-misunderstood burden of leadership. The stories go from intense drug busts to personal reflections on doubt and growth, fast and personal at the same time.
His writing is blunt and chatty, like a late-night chat with a friend, never a memoir in the polish sense. Such a technique provides authenticity, drawing readers into a world that is otherwise cliché. The readers witness through Muterspaw's lens not just the professional sacrifices and challenges but also the personal sacrifices demanded by a career in policing.
Regardless of your orientation-whether you support law enforcement, take the opposite view, or simply wonder about how the police work today-The Blue View is powerful food for thought that challenges the reader's assumptions and provokes contemplation. Highly recommended.
March 23, 2025
From the very first page, The Blue View grabs you with its raw honesty and unfiltered storytelling.Written as a personal journal over 30 years, Rodney Muterspaw takes readers through his journey from a rookie officer to Chief of Police in Middletown, Ohio.The real-life experiences, both on the streets and in his personal life, make this book feel like an intimate ride-along. The candidness of his thoughts and emotions adds a deeply personal touch, making this more than just another law enforcement memoir.
Muterspaw’s writing style is straightforward and conversational, making it easy to connect with his experiences.The book is packed with gripping moments—from high-stakes narcotics operations to the emotional toll of leadership. But beyond the action, The Blue View dives into the complexities of policing, offering insight into the struggles, sacrifices, and moral dilemmas officers face daily.What stands out is how the author never tries to glorify or justify—he simply tells it like it is, allowing readers to form their own opinions.
This book is a must-read for anyone curious about the real, unfiltered world of policing. Whether you support law enforcement or question it, The Blue View offers a perspective that challenges assumptions and sparks deeper understanding.Rodney’s honesty makes it an emotional and thought-provoking read, leaving you with a newfound respect for the weight officers carry. Highly recommended for those who appreciate raw, real-life storytelling!
Muterspaw’s writing style is straightforward and conversational, making it easy to connect with his experiences.The book is packed with gripping moments—from high-stakes narcotics operations to the emotional toll of leadership. But beyond the action, The Blue View dives into the complexities of policing, offering insight into the struggles, sacrifices, and moral dilemmas officers face daily.What stands out is how the author never tries to glorify or justify—he simply tells it like it is, allowing readers to form their own opinions.
This book is a must-read for anyone curious about the real, unfiltered world of policing. Whether you support law enforcement or question it, The Blue View offers a perspective that challenges assumptions and sparks deeper understanding.Rodney’s honesty makes it an emotional and thought-provoking read, leaving you with a newfound respect for the weight officers carry. Highly recommended for those who appreciate raw, real-life storytelling!
March 30, 2025
Rodney Muterspaw's The Blue View: The Uncut Journal of an Ohio Police Chief is a revealing, heartfelt look at what it really takes to be a police officer. Written in open-ended journal entries over the course of three decades, Muterspaw documents his own experience from the moment he first began as a new recruit through when he became chief of a police department—all during the emotional peaks and tragic low points of a career.
What makes this book different is its credibility. Muterspaw does not sugarcoat the realities of being a police officer. He lays bare the times of victory, the heart-wrenching defeats, and the huge stress that goes with the badge. His narratives are unflinching and honest, giving a candid view of the personal sacrifices and moral dilemmas the officers endure every day.
More than it is a memoir, The Blue View is an introspective journey through contemporary policing. Muterspaw shares a raw vision on leadership, public opinion, and the changing realities of law enforcement. He neither romanticizes nor demonizes the job—rather, he delivers it for what it is: multifaceted, rigorous, and richly human.
January 3, 2021
The Blue View is a peek inside of law enforcement through the eyes of Rodney Muterspaw, a seasoned veteran that worked his way up through the ranks from a rookie cop to the Chief of Police. The quick read is full of insight that is informative, sometimes hilarious and sometimes heartbreaking. A true look into the day-to-day life of law enforcement allowing you to peel back the layers of job demands, community commitment, and personal impact of an officer. There is no smoke and mirrors to be found in the Blue View, it’s honest and vulnerable. It will give your heart a workout as you find yourself quickly transitioning from strong deep laughs, to sadness for the pain that is shared, to a hope for better understanding will provide stronger law enforcement and community relationships. It is such a great mix of emotion that you won’t be able to put the book down.
January 8, 2021
I normally do not review books but being that I live in the town next to where this book was written about, I felt pulled to check it out. I don’t think I’ve ever read anything more real in my life. This is a total contradiction to what I believed about law enforcement in general. I could not put this book down and read it in two days, as it kept me enthralled the entire time. Just a fascinating read. There were times when reading it that I was angry at the police and they were other times I felt completely sorry for them. Thank you sir, for being so open and transparent regarding the issues in policing and in your own life. Kudos to you!
August 20, 2024
I saw this was a five-star read on several sites, but I actually listened to the audible version while I was recovering from surgery. I was absolutely pleasantly surprised by the emotional rollercoaster this book takes you through from start to finish. At times I laughed out loud and other times I felt my eyes get a bit misty.
The book is an easy read in a bullet point format. I read it in two days, and it is almost 400 pages. I loved it and it gave me a perspective of policing I had never thought of before. Just a wonderful book and I hope the writer, a former Police Chief, continues to write. His style is certainly one that is easy and enjoyable. Very descriptive.
The book is an easy read in a bullet point format. I read it in two days, and it is almost 400 pages. I loved it and it gave me a perspective of policing I had never thought of before. Just a wonderful book and I hope the writer, a former Police Chief, continues to write. His style is certainly one that is easy and enjoyable. Very descriptive.
March 18, 2023
I’m not real big on reviewing books, and I read this only because I live in the southwestern Ohio area where the writer is from. But I couldn’t put it down. I read this book in about six hours, and I laughed so hard at times, and other times I was angry, and sometimes even sad. Just a remarkable collection of stories from a police officer all the way from his time in the Academy to his last day as the police superintendent in Butler County, Ohio.
One of the best reads I’ve encountered in a long time. I’m sure I’ll read it again soon.
One of the best reads I’ve encountered in a long time. I’m sure I’ll read it again soon.
January 2, 2021
THE best book.
I absolutely loved this book. In my mind I could see the things that went on and places that he went to. It was an awesome read. I found out a lot that goes on behind the scenes. It’s an eye opener for sure. I’m so glad that I have know Rodney since junior high. He is a great person with a big heart for Middletown Ohio. Thank you for letting me read this awesome book!
I absolutely loved this book. In my mind I could see the things that went on and places that he went to. It was an awesome read. I found out a lot that goes on behind the scenes. It’s an eye opener for sure. I’m so glad that I have know Rodney since junior high. He is a great person with a big heart for Middletown Ohio. Thank you for letting me read this awesome book!
January 18, 2021
This book really helps one understand the inside of the officer’s heart and mind. The realness of the fight between having to “be” what everyone needs and needing to be yourself in a shared world.
All the places described and shared takes me back to where I was born and raised in my mind. It helped to relate to Rodney as going to school with him for many years.
Excellent read!
All the places described and shared takes me back to where I was born and raised in my mind. It helped to relate to Rodney as going to school with him for many years.
Excellent read!
February 22, 2021
As up government employee in the medic field, this journal hit home so hard. Although I’ve never been a cop, I can fully appreciate what he’s talking about. Just an incredible ride and it makes you remember a lot of things you did in your career that you either regret or wish you could’ve done better. Kudos to this man for releasing his most private thoughts. I’d recommend to anyone!
February 21, 2021
This is a journal of a Middletown Ohio police chief. I was first attracted because I live near Middletown and I thought I would skim read it but once I got inside I loved the directness and honesty with which he wrote. Also gave me good inside and the ability to walk in a police officer shoes.
May 15, 2024
Ok 👌 story
Kept me interested all the way through. Has not given me a different opinion of the police. You can only judge by the service they have given me in the past which has been abysmal.
Kept me interested all the way through. Has not given me a different opinion of the police. You can only judge by the service they have given me in the past which has been abysmal.
January 13, 2021
Outstanding reading!
January 14, 2021
This book is so hard to it down! Just a nice flow of emotions. It will definitely keep your attention
January 18, 2021
Very well written. There are a lot of amazing stories
February 18, 2021
This was a fun book to read! Couldn’t put it down. Totally not what I expected!
July 9, 2021
More of a 4.5. If you're not a police officer and want an unfiltered look into the mind of a police officer, read this book.
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