Landed on Black

by Zach Fortier

Landed on Black is about the reality that every cop comes to realize. After you have been on the job long enough you realize that nothing is how it seems. Your circle of people that you can trust...really trust, gets smaller every year and you start to question your own sanity ~Could everyone you know be this messed up? Is it really possible that you missed all the facades and the ruses that people kept up? Before I started working as a cop I was and careful about whom I chose to associate with. Now it seems everywhere I look I recognize the potential for being double crossed and betrayed. Landed on Black is about the toll that reality took on my life.

Genres: Mystery, True Crime, Crime, Nonfiction, Amazon, Short Stories

150 pages, Paperback

First published August 2, 2014

About the author

2013 Readers Favorite Bronze medal winner
2014 Readers Favorite Gold and Silver medal winner
Finalist in 2014 Chanticleer Book awards contest
2015 IPPY Bronze Medal winner
2015 semi finalist Kindle Book Awards (X2)
2015 Finalist in the IAN book awards (X2)
2015 Readers Favorite Bronze medal winner
2015 Readers Favorite Finalist true crime/non fiction(x2)
2015 Finalist Kindle Book Awards
2015 Finalist USA Today book awards (x3)
2015 Finalist Chanticleer Clue book awards(x3)
2015 First place award in the Chanticleer Clue book awards contest in true crime.
2015 Winner of the Book Pipeline contest.
2016 Winner of the NIEA book awards in African American non fiction
2016 Finalist Kindle Book awards
2017 Next Generation Indie Book Awards winner in suspense genre.
2017 Finalist in the NIEA Book Awards in Suspense genre
Finalist in Biography General in the 2017 American Book Fest International book awards
Finalist 2017 Kindle Book awards
Short List 2017 Chanticleer Clue awards.
Bronze medal in the 2017 Readers Favorite Book contest in Suspense genre
Awarded Silver medal in the 2018 eLit Book Awards contest in the Mystery/thriller genre Finalist in Biography genre in the 2018 Book Excellence awards contest.
Bronze medal in the 2018 Readers Favorite Book contest in Thriller genre
Semi finalist for 2018 Chanticleer Clue awards
Solo medal winner of the 2018 New Apple Book awards contest in the Psychological Thriller category.
Solo medal winner in the 2019 Book Excellence book award contest in the suspense genre .
Bronze medal winner in the 2019 Readers Favorite international book awards contest in the fiction-suspense genre
Named as an Official Selection in the 2019 New Apple Summer E book awards contest in the Psychological Suspense genre
First Place winner in the 2019 Top Shelf book awards contest.
Winner of the 2020 Book Excellence book awards contest in Sci Fi Genre
Awarded 1st place in Chanticleer's 2020 Cygnus book awards contest for Science Fiction

Zach Fortier was a police officer for over thirty years specializing in K-9, SWAT, gangs, domestic violence, and sex crimes as an investigator. He has written several books about his life in police work. CurbChek won the bronze medal for True Crime in the 2013 Readers’ Favorite International Book Awards. Street Creds and Curbchek Reload won a gold and silver medal respectively for True Crime in the 2014 Readers’ Favorite International Book Awards. His other works are Hero To Zero, which details the incredibly talented cops that he worked with that ended up going down in flames, some ended up in prison and one on the FBI’s ten most wanted list. Landed on Black described the toxic culture of the police department and streets, ultimately leading to the realization that Zach has been diagnosed with PTSD. I am Raymond Washington is the only authorized biography of the original founder of the Crips and has been awarded bronze medals in 2015 by both IPPY and Readers Favorite International book awards. Baroota: The Hunting Ground is Zach’s first fictional work, and is the start of this series, followed by Cachibache, Izadi and Chakana. All books in the Director's Series are award winning. If you are looking for gritty, true crime stories, be sure to check out all of Zach Fortier’s novels. Zach currently lives in the mountains of Colorado, with his wife Christina.



www.zachfortier.com
E mail: authorzachfortier@gmail.com

Reviews

[Zach Fortier · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my 5th book and one I very much enjoyed writing. I hope you enjoy it as well. Z

[Ralph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Former policeman-turned-author Zach Fortier continues his cathartic journey through a life filled with violence, betrayal, horror, and, occasionally, hope. Although the narrative is episodic, as befits the life of a police officer who must compartmentalize his thinking processes to deal with each case on an individual basis, there is still a thread that runs through the book, beginning to end, taking the reader on an almost mythic journey into the Underworld. Fortier is a Dante without a Virgil, left to wander on his own through the Dark Woods and the increasingly dire Circles beyond. Just as the Inferno was populated with demons and the damned, the unnamed city of Fortier’s beat has villains who sometimes look like villains and who sometimes look like cops, and the same could be said for the legions of damned souls unable to escape fates that are largely of their own choosing. Occasionally, he is able to pluck a lost soul from the mire; more often then not, they leap back in, as did the probationary teen, remanded to Fortier’s care by a judge, who decided life as a gangbanger held more allure than life as a law-abiding citizen. But, rarely, someone saved remains saved, giving Fortier some glimmer of hope, at least for himself if not the chaotic society he serves. In “Landed on Black,” Fortier testifies to his experiences in a blunt and explicit manner, holding back none of the rage and violence, none of the brutality and deception, none of the revulsion and frustration. Like Fortier, the reader will at times find himself laughing at all the wrong things, for sometimes that is the only way to counter the horror of the abyss. Students of criminology will not find much here, nor will the true crime fans who like their mysteries neatly packaged, but those who want to gain a greater understanding of the chaos afflicting society and to know the players on both sides will find a trove of material, and much to ponder.

[Colin Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Waffled between "I like it" and " I love it", so I figure life can be hard enough and bumped it a half mark. The stories are intriguing as I would figure they would be for a 'civie' reading a cop stories. Moreoever, we see below the surface into the mind, thoughts and some of the emotions of the writer. This is rare for 'cop' stories....Wambaugh did but only somewhat through his stories and one was never sure if his stories were true or a mish mash of reality and dramatic license. Hill Street Blues showed a bit of cops' real reactions ( I know..I am really into the dinosaur age!), and yes through the comedy even "Barney Miller' ( Cops at the time, called it the most realistic even through the comedic facade).
I found that I began to care for all the characters that the author wrote more than three sentences of. Even the losers and the highly dysfunctional folks (that aren't all 'criminals' !) There was one story where two cops didn't like each other and everything escalated until you know that both will be spread like jelly and so.....(I am not going to tell you...you have to read it! )
I don't know if this is a good thing or bad thing, but I found the pacing uneven. Perhaps this could be a allegorical as the daily grind of a cop must be like that. Having said that they were uneven, the stories played out to reveal an extremely tragic, disappointing and horrible world that most EMS folks must experience. Also, the unevenness served to keep me on my 'toes' and kept me reading...hopefully for a 'reprieve' from some of the (human and situational ) ugliness found within. I am happy that the author has left law enforcement, as he is obviously one of the survivors of his own stories. This is the second of his works that have read. I have bought all of his stuff and plan to read it. Cheers. Hug your kids and count your blessings.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eyes open or eyes closed... The choice is yours...

Fortier's book “Landed On Black” is a compliment to the rest of his books. I noticed right off that Fortier's writing has improved. As I read I still felt as if I was riding with him in his police car (Gosh, I like that). Zach has a way of bringing you on a great ride. Fortier continues to share his stories about his police career with harsh realities that made him trust no one.

Lessons will be learned, people will hit the pavement, some will go to jail, some will be given a break, and some will get broken all by the hands of Zach. The great thing about this read; you will never know what the outcome will be. Unpredictable triggers of PTSD for sure makes Zack's eyes open and never closed. As you read you will smell the smells of all the nasty earthy beings of the inner city.

For Zach nothing is ever as it seemed. Zach is a survivalist just like most of the people he served. Zach never regards himself as better than anyone; he is surviving and sadly jaded; “Trust no one trust nothing”. If you have not read any of Fortier’s books you have never seen this writers’ perspective and you do not know that his perspective is everything. “Landed On Black” is just a metaphor to Zach Fortier. If you cannot deal with the realities “Landed On Black” is not for you. Wear a helmet and never never cry wolf…

I cannot wait for “I am Raymond Washington”.

[Jody]

I've always wondered what it would have been like if I would have went into law enforcement rather than taking the path I chose. Fortier shows me. After reading some of his books no one should have to wonder why he is so jaded. Personally, I wonder how he can even smile for his publicity photo after having been through what he has been through. Fortier has been partnered with some idiots over his career, has arrested some pretty nasty criminals and suffered through failed marriages. This guy needs a break.

In Landed on Black, Fortier will once again give us the basic run down and just the bare facts concerning some interesting calls he has been on. He shows us the gritty nasty side of civilization. The side you never knew was there and you hoped you would never have to see. There were a couple of chapters in this book that left me feeling like I needed to take a shower. There were also a couple of chapters that made me want to hug a cop for having to go through some of the crap they have to go through. If you liked the show Cops then you will like this book much better because it feels more true to life. It is raw and gritty and will make you feel as if you are riding in the car with your local police.

[S.R. Karfelt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting and Fast-Paced Memoir of a Police Officer

Each chapter tells a different story from the long career of a Police officer. They aren't necessarily in any chronological order or directly related to each other, but the methodology works. They're gritty, believable, dark, and will definitely keep you turning pages.

It took a bit of effort on my part as a reader not to question some of the details, not that I doubted them -- I didn't -- it's just that I wondered how over a thirty year time span total recall worked. If this were fiction or fictionalized I wouldn't question, but we're talking non-fiction. At one point when we slipped into the direct (italicized) thoughts of another character, I really wondered...

But one non-fiction fact remains, the author knows how to spin intriguing tales, and I would definitely read his work again, and likely move it to the top of the to-be-read pile.

[AJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Without any distinguishable beginning or any definitive end, Fortier's "Landed On Black" dredges the depths of his career in law enforcement and offers it up as a public sacrifice for any peace of mind the personal reflection imprisoned on the pages might hope to offer. His journey is one without apology, but it is also one that cautiously invites the reader to tango with "what ifs" had he/she been condemned to walk in Fortier's shoes. Unlike Fortier's previous work, "Landed On Black" is more noticeably cathartic; however, the analogies used to bridge Fortier's world with that of the daywalker are still poignant enough to leave a scar where they burn. Concluding this novel, the reader comes a little closer to understanding Fortier and little more paranoid about when his/her city might require its next sacrifice.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

He's done it again... kept me from my beauty sleep with another gripping installment of life as a police officer. This volume is just as gritty and raw as his previous books. The book opens with a statement about how he realized his time as a cop gave him PTSD and then looks back at some of the more memorable cases he dealt with in his career. It's all here - strippers in lingerie walking through a filthy house covered in dog feces, gang bangers, crooked cops. Could not put it down. If you are offended by strong language and general life on the dark side this is not the book (or author for you). If you're like me and can't get enough of what seems to be absolutely unreal conditions in the inner city you will love it.

[Jessyca Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book and way each chapter is a unique story. I have always been curious of what police officers actually think, and Zach Fortier does an excellent job in saying his thoughts in Landed on Black. I loved reading what police officers actually experience and all the crazy calls that they respond to. Fortier does a great job of showing his audience that not all police officers are the same and some really do care about the public. I look forward to reading more books and the experiences of Fortier.

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading the encounters that Zach had while being a law enforcement officer. Each chapter gave you a new situation that he had to deal with and opened your eyes to what they have to deal with every single day. With Zach suffering from PTSD, he knows now how to recognize when he is going to go off in certain situations and that is huge and most people with this disorder can not recognize what triggers them!! I really enjoyed this books being from a first hand perspective!! Thanks for a good read Zach!!

[Judith Hendricks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner by Zach Fortier

This is the fifth book that I have read that
Zach Fortier wrote. I have enjoyed each book. His style of writing is easy to read and entertaining. I looked forward to reading each chapter. With this current book he is getting close to retiring from the police force. He comes across as a cop with a heart and a good head on his shoulders. If he does retire from police work, I hope he has more memories that he will put on paper and share with his readers.

[2fsierra8 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another GREAT book by Zach! Zach's stories are raw, uncut, and will grab your attention from the start! This book is a great compliment to his other novels and Zach continues to show just how ******-up police work really is. Having worked with Zach for years, I appreciate his candor and I absolutely loved this book......even when it hits close to home. If you want a glimpse into police work, read this book! I HIGHLY recommend it!

[Pam Rule · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are an SVU junkie, like I am, or are even somewhat interested in first person accounts of law enforcement, this book is for you! Zach Fortier lays it all out on the line and holds nothing back. His experiences are well documented in a way that keeps you riveted to the book, waiting to see the outcome of each scenario. And you never know what is going to be around the next corner or in the next chapter! What a great read!!!

[Dan Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zack doesn't doesn't disappoint with his latest endeavor into the REAL world of police work. The stories of his encounters are fascinating and told in a raw and easily understandable style. After reading Zack's books, I come away with a greater appreciation for those who have pledged to Serve and Protect. Keep up the great work and hope someday to share a beer or glass of wine with you.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my third book by Zach Fortier. I have enjoyed all of them. He tells the stories about being a police officer like he was sitting in the room with you telling stories. It makes very enjoyable and fast reading. The stories are very interesting and it is great to hear them from the perspective of a real police officer. I have to get his first two book and read them!

[Mcpm · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first story was the best one, showing that "ZF" can "snap" at any time. Also, appreciate the fact that the author shows that officers are real people with real issues. Can't wait to see what the author has coming for us next. Keep it real !!

[Karen Chung · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book offers some fascinating looks into humans in all our potentially repulsive glory. The prose is not polished in an academic way, but the story arcs and plot development are impeccable. Worth a read - you will probably finish it in a sitting or two.

[Roni · Rating 5 out of 5]

His last chapter, Twenty-two, left me laughing hysterically and out of breath from sentence to sentence as the rival between two cops escalated!

I really enjoyed his book and plan to read his other books!

[Alaina Maxam · Rating 4 out of 5]

tHIS IS A WELL WRITTEN BOOK ABOUT A POLICEMANS TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS. IT IS WELL WRITEN AND ILLUMINATING BOOK. IT IS NICE TO SEE THE SIDE OF THE POLICEMANS DAYS.

[Dwayne · Rating 3 out of 5]

fun read not certain all the stories are true but hey it was a free download

[Jen Chignell · Rating 5 out of 5]

little hard to believe it all but good read none the less

[Roy Richard · Rating 3 out of 5]

Real Life Cop Drama

Easy quick read. Interesting look at life on the streets as a cop. Enjoyed the stories and drama. Comical at times

[Anne Wisniewski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rough and gritty

Excellent opportunity to learn what life on the streets is like from a police officer's perspective. Quick read. Worth your time.

[Deb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely held my interest. My only complaint is the really abrupt ending. I felt like it needed some closing chapter or something.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes reality sucks. This book is good but can't believe some of the crap people do. The old lady telling her sexual tales still cracks me up thinking about it.

[Nena · Rating 5 out of 5]

They say writing is a good way to heal from emotional trauma. Getting it out, whether verbally or on paper, equates to emotional vomiting. Once out, you can then put it behind you and keep moving forward. Mr. Fortier continues his cathartic process with this fifth book recounting his 30+ years experience as a cop.

His stories are not for the faint of heart, but they give the reader a reality check into what us "day-walkers" don't see while we go about our daily comings and goings, and gives us a glimpse into the mind of a cop as they navigate the seedy underbelly of society day after day. Your town, my town, anytown. It's everywhere.

I notice that a few reviewers express doubt as to the authenticity of Mr. Fortier's recounting based on how detailed they are and others say this is a work of fiction because the stories are so wild, raw and gritty. Well to them I say: Before you judge a man, walk a mile in his shoes.

The only somewhat disappointment I have is that the book ended too abruptly. But it gives me hope that other books will follow. And I would encourage Mr. Fortier to continue on his therapeutic course with these memoirs. Every word you get down on paper, Mr. Fortier, is another step towards healing. And rest assured you can emotionally vomit on my shoes anytime. Your catharsis is my reality check.

[Beth Peninger]

I was super confused by this book. I thought it was fiction but apparently, it is not. However, It reads like fiction. Zach Fortier is an actual real-life ex-cop and has transcribed his experiences as a police officer into several books. When I thought it was fiction I was feeling annoyed at the tone of the POV, it seemed so contrived. And then when I figured out the POV wasn't fiction but the reality I actually felt even more annoyed. It just felt very exaggerated and almost cartoonish to me. So I gave it up.

[Lynnette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another brilliant book from Zach. He never disappoints. I have binged read all his books now. So waiting on news material 10/10

Brilliant Zach is amazing storyteller can't wait for more of his stuff Zach writes from the heart 10 out of 10

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gritty Police Store

A well written novel with interesting stories of his time as a law enforcement officer. This will certainly give you a different look at the brothers in blue

[Thom Swennes · Rating 1 out of 5]

Written in the form as an autobiography, the life of a cop in the inner city is described. The picture that is painted isn’t pretty. Zach Fortier rubs elbows with the real low-life’s that live on the streets. There isn’t much of a story, just unattached incidents, and ambiguous criminal cases. A basic rule when writing a story is that it has a beginning, middle, and end. This one throws that rule out the window and just puts scenes and random thoughts; like sling paint or mud at an empty wall and see what you come up with. I haven’t grown-up in a glass box and realize that there is an ugly side of society. With this said, I don’t particularly want my nose rubbed in the social lepers of society.
This story is poorly written. Much is said about nothing and much of the basic information, like names, places, and times remain unknown. The dialog is pregnant with obscenities, using them in lieu of verbs or adjectives. I can only say that Zach Fortier better not stop his day job because as a writer he is a write-off. I can’t, in good conscience, recommend this book as I deem it not worth reading. I got this book free so at least only my time was spent.