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Loose Units

By: Paul F. Verhoeven
Narrated by: Paul F. Verhoeven
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Publisher's Summary

Paul Verhoeven's father, John, is a cop. Well, an ex-cop. 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.
©2018 Paul F. Verhoeven (P)2019 Bolinda Publishing
Biographies & Memoirs Funny Scary Witty
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Critic Reviews

'Paul F. Verhoeven's dry performance, with his ability to witness dark moments, makes this audiobook both compelling and hilarious ... throughout the audiobook, Verhoeven seeks to come to terms with a childhood memory of seeing one of his father's grisly crime photos ... [his] natural wit is tenacious – listeners will be with him from the start.' (AudioFile)
'... a different, personal kind of true crime, with heart – and many other organs besides.' (Readings)
'Ex-cop John Verhoeven shares details of his career with his writer son, revealing the dramatic — and sometimes dodgy — truth behind policing Sydney in the 1980s.' (The Daily Telegraph)

What listeners say about Loose Units

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f@#k me what a great read.

Absolutely awesome book. The pod cast is equally impressive. Paul tells the story well and I can't wait for a second book.

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I bloody love it

I love the humour and crazy stories, I also can't recommend the podcast enough. fantastic

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Awesome

Loved the book listened to it in one sitting laughed a lot and cried a little.

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Good fun

A real insight into the world of a cop. Graphic, intense, hilarious it’s a rollercoaster of demotion the entire way through but I want to hear more and more! Their podcast by the same name is also a weekly go to for me. Great job!

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Brilliant!

Absolutely worth the listening. Fast paced,funny and incredibly interesting. Paul’s impersonations of his dad are hilarious and I can not wait for more! Also listen to the podcast!

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6 people found this helpful

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Profile Image for Belinda E

Amazing story telling

I’m so glad John is reading this book, I don’t think anyone else could have read it the same way.

Excellent stories told with the right mix of humour and seriousness. I love the relationship John and Paul have. I’d actually love to hear Julian’s version of events too sometime.

If you haven’t listened to the podcast jump on it I think it gives even more insight into how the conversation would have gone whilst writing the book.

You don’t need to be into true crime to enjoy this book - just sit back and enjoy the ride.

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Fantastic insight

I listened to this book within a week, and I was gripped from the beginning! I started listening to the podcast first and needed to listen to the book.
Hands down a great father and son duo, the stories come to life and you feel like you are there living them.
Definitely get this book!!

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Not what I expected but a reasonable Listen

I had to chew my way through the first hour. The unique method and concept took a little to get used to.
Not a crime book by any stretch but a biography about a Dad. In the end, an entertaining listen well Narrated by Paul.

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the podcast is better

the book is good, and offers insights into policing in a time way looser than it is now, but the podcast is better.

tangents are delicious.

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What an absolute gem!

A refreshingly honest read (or should I say listen?)! There were moments where I was laughing, nearly crying and times where I caught myself holding my breath! Can’t want for the next instalment!

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