MODEL DETECTIVE: A True Story of Heels, Handcuffs and Homicides takes readers where true crime has never gone before—inside the heart, mind, and soul of a Chicago homicide detective, Michele Wood, whose grit and instincts prove that a woman's place is in the homicide division.
In this compelling true crime memoir, Michele Wood navigates through complex murder cases, revealing how she interprets evidence and leverages her unique perspective as a woman to thrive in a male-dominated world. Her skills are a testament to her high success rate and stellar reputation within the force, explaining why she stands out as Chicago's—and likely the country's—only detective who previously worked as a flight attendant, moonlighted as a fitness-magazine model, and continues to shine as a crime TV expert.
From the story of her Chicago upbringing to the extraordinary perils of policing in the city, MODEL DETECTIVE is a raw, inspiring tale of courage, resilience, and determination in America's most violent city.

Michele Wood, a seasoned Chicago homicide detective, has dedicated over 25 years to law enforcement. As a Detective Sergeant, she leads a Homicide team on the city’s West Side and has investigated thousands of major violent crimes. An FBI-certified SWAT Hostage and Crisis Negotiator, as well as a certified Police Academy Instructor, Michele also acts as a subject matter expert for the Detective promotional exam. Drawing from her extensive experience at crime scenes and in interview rooms, she remains steadfast in her commitment to truth, accountability, and leadership when it matters most, which is often reflected in her insights for a true crime memoir.
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