Behind the Badge (Electronic book text)

Based on a true story, Susan Benson's lifelong dream of becoming a police officer is realized when she becomes the first woman to serve on the local force. Her excitement is short-lived when she faces bias and rejection in a once predominantly male occupation. Susan is not deterred by her colleagues' attitude and forges ahead to show great promise as a police officer, increasing resentment toward her. The constant badgering is disturbing, while the lack of support is staggering. At times she is sent out on assignment without any backup. A male supervisor is interested only in getting her to submit to his advances. He ignores her request for his help and support rather than protect her from criminals or other officers. Susan is finally teamed with a male partner she grows to trust. On a night he is off duty, Susan experiences a terrible event with another officer, and is determined not to tell. Her silence and denial adversely affects her job performance and her family. She hesitantly accepts help from a doctor who helps her through recovery and to understand what happened. Susan's commitment to principle makes this story a riveting, heartbreaking, yet triumphant story of courage and determination.