This was EXCELLENT. So engaging, well written, thorough and detailed (yet kept my attention from the first page). I had heard some of this info before, but much of it was new to me and written so linearly it was easy to follow and understand linkages between many moving parts. This is a must read for any true crime addict, especially if you have an interest in the New York mafia circa 1980-1990s. Here’s to hoping Micheal writes more books on the subject!

I'm usually not a nonfiction person, but I really enjoyed this one. I had never heard this story before, but is interesting and unique. I thought it did a great job in exploring Eppolito & Caracappa's story in a way that keeps the reader interested. I loved getting the perspective from those that were involved with these two shady cops. This book definitely made me want to look into this story more.

This is the second book of Cannell's that I have had the pleasure of reading. The first being "Incendiary", which was very good also.
Now Cannell has turned his eyes to the story of two dirty cops in New York City. How they worked for the Mafia as they also were police officers.
Cannell does an excellent job of laying out the entire story. His research seems to be impeccable. He keeps one's interest through the use of good writing and story telling.
I have to say, and it's on an entirely personal level, the story disgusted me. Being a retired law enforcement officer myself, I knew of some officers who were caught being on the take, and suspected some others. It just really, really burns me up inside, the level of betrayal these traitors inflicted upon the good name of law enforcement everywhere.
The fact that these two losers got away with their crimes for so long is awful. As Cannell points out the many mistakes made, and inaction by the higher ups, it leaves me wondering if the same things are still occurring today.
Excellent book!

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

Michael Cannell’s “Blood and the Badge” is a gripping true crime narrative that delves into one of the most shocking scandals in the history of the New York City Police Department. This meticulously researched book uncovers the dark and twisted tale of Louis Eppolito and Stephen Caracappa, two decorated NYPD detectives who secretly worked as hitmen for the Mafia12.

Cannell’s storytelling prowess shines as he reconstructs the chilling events that led to the downfall of these “killer cops.” The book opens a window into the gritty underworld of 1980s Brooklyn, where corruption and crime were rampant. Eppolito and Caracappa, once respected members of the force, used their positions to serve the interests of the Lucchese crime family, leaking sensitive information and even participating in mob killing.

What sets “Blood and the Badge” apart is Cannell’s ability to humanize the story without losing sight of its gravity. He provides a nuanced portrayal of Eppolito and Caracappa, exploring their motivations and the complex web of deceit they wove. The narrative is enriched by interviews with key figures, including Sammy “the Bull” Gravano.

The book is a testament to the relentless pursuit of justice. Cannell highlights the efforts of law enforcement officers like Tommy Dades, who refused to let the case go cold and ultimately brought the rogue detectives to justice.

Cannell’s writing is both engaging and informative, making “Blood and the Badge” a page-turner that is hard to put down. His attention to detail and ability to weave complex narratives into a cohesive story make this book a standout in the true crime genre. The pacing is perfect, with each chapter building on the suspense and intrigue of the previous one.

“Blood and the Badge” is a compelling and thought-provoking read that sheds light on one of the most egregious cases of police corruption in American history. Michael Cannell has crafted a masterful true crime narrative that is both chilling and inspiring.

This book is a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone interested in the complexities of justice and morality.

Michael Cannell’s Blood and the Badge dives into one of the most bizarre, jaw-dropping chapters of NYPD history: the true story of Louis Eppolito and Stephen Caracappa, two decorated detectives who turned from cops to cold-blooded mob informants. It’s a tale that feels ripped from the script of a gritty Scorsese film, but Cannell elevates it with sharp research, and a narrative pacing that kept me flipping the pages.

The book is packed with scandalous details. You’ve got corrupt cops moonlighting as assassins, mafia bosses treating detectives like human "crystal balls" for insider intel, and an FBI that somehow managed to sit on the evidence for a good decade before finally getting its act together. It’s one of those stories where you can’t help but shake your head in disbelief, even as you’re drawn deeper into the madness.

Cannell’s writing strikes a good balance between journalistic detail and cinematic drama. He gives us fresh research, but doesn’t bog us down with too much “true crime trivia.”

Blood and the Badge shines a new light on a long-buried scandal and serves as a timely reflection on police corruption. If you’re into mob stories, dirty cops, or just want to be amazed at how real life sometimes outdoes fiction, this is a book worth picking up.

Many thanks to Edelweiss and Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read and review Blood and the Badge prior to publication.

A thoroughly well written and fully fleshed out book.
I had heard a bit about these detectives but this book really filled in the story for me.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.

Blood and the Badge by Michael Cannell is a gripping true crime narrative that delves into the complex world of law enforcement and the darker aspects of policing. Cannell skillfully intertwines the stories of dedicated officers and the moral dilemmas they face, creating a tense atmosphere that keeps readers engaged. The book not only explores the gritty realities of crime but also raises important questions about justice and accountability. With its sharp prose and compelling characters, this work is a must-read for fans of crime literature and those interested in the intricacies of the justice system.

Thank you Minotaur books for giving me access to this unbelievable book.

I've heard some things about detectives Eppolito and Caracappa previously. But nothing quite like what I just read. It's crazy to me how they were able to pull all of this off how they did.

For the first time in forty years, former New York Times editor Michael Cannell unearths the full story behind two ruthless New York cops who acted as double agents for the Mafia, Fiuhhh.. Double agents genre really blows me out. I enjoy it really much.

"Blood and the Badge" is a gripping account of NYPD detectives Louis Eppolito and Frank Caracappa, who led double lives as Mafia henchmen. They not only tipped off the mob about raids and exposed informants, leading to murders, but also carried out hits for the Mafia. The book delves into their corruption, the inner workings of the mob, and criticizes the NYPD's failure to uncover their crimes for over a decade. Based on extensive research, it follows their journey from misconduct to imprisonment. An incredible and highly recommended read.

I have read other books that circle around this story. This book deeply explores the story of these two police officers, their mafia connections, and horrendous deeds. Quite eye opening

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/211004801

This was an excellent true crime read about the mafia and corrupt cops. I felt that the author had researched impeccably, there was so much detail that brought each scene and player to life. This was a shocking story and I felt it served to shed light on the detrimental effect of the mafia; the crime, the violence, the bloodshed. That being in direct contrast to how we revere the Tony Soprano Godfather type characters that in our society become celebrated.

It was gripping to read about the ways of the mafia, the endless murders and the slow unravelling of the old school gangsters who would never ‘snitch’ or ‘rat’.

I would say there were some occasions that I found a big heavy on the detail. There were a lot of characters and scenarios to get my head round and follow along and a few times I got bogged down after the half way mark to then end. If it wasn’t for a the few moments of my attention wavering I would have erred towards a five star. I definitely think this is a worthy read.

Blood and the Badge is the shocking and at times unbelievable tale of two decorated NYC Police Department detectives who led a double life as Mafia henchmen. Detectives Louis Eppolito and Frank Caracappa not only alerted their mob connection to impeding raids and arrests, but also disclosed the identities of several mob informants, leading to their deaths and, incredibly, carried out hits for the Mafia. This is a comprehensive and intensive narrative not only of the detectives corrupt and criminal activities, but also a deep dive into the inner workings of the mob and several high-ranking members. It’s also an indictment of the NYPD hierarchy who either turned a blind eye to the detectives actions, or were too incompetent to uncover the corruption over a ten year plus period. The author gathered information from numerous sources, including court testimony, police records and personal interviews, and tells this story from the beginning of the cops’ misdeeds right through to their criminal trial and ultimate imprisonment. This is an incredible story, highly recommended. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

A heavily researched account of the unsettling true story of Louie Eppolito and Stephen Caracappa, NYPD detectives who descended into the criminal underworld. Eppolito, raised in mafia culture by his gangster father, joined the police force despite his background, partnering with Caracappa for 26 years. Disillusioned by a promotion to detective that he felt was three years overdue, Eppolito's bitterness led him to partner with Caracappa in making deals with major mob figures, including the Lucchese crime family. With the help of Eppolito’s cousin Frank Santoro and mobster Burt Kaplan, their crimes escalated to murder. After retiring and moving to Las Vegas, Eppolito and Caracappa continued their criminal activities, including drug dealing and money laundering. Their downfall came with the assistance of undercover accountant Stephen Corso, leading to their arrest by the FBI. Their trial revealed their involvement in eight murders, money laundering, and drug distribution. The author vividly portrays the betrayal, greed, and moral decay that transformed two detectives into infamous figures in true crime history.