Hold the Line: The Insurrection and One Cop's Battle for America's Soul

Written by Michael Fanone and John Shiffman

Narrated by Michael Fanone

From a twenty-year police veteran and former Trump supporter who nearly lost his life during the insurrection of January 6th, this instant New York Times bestseller is also an urgent warning that “offers a stark message for this uncertain moment, making crystal clear the urgency and importance of defending our precious democracy” (Nancy Pelosi).

When Michael Fanone self-deployed to the Capitol on January 6, 2021, he had no idea his life was about to change. When he got to the front of the line, he urged his fellow officers to hold it against the growing crowd of insurrectionists—until he found himself pulled into the mob, tased until he had a heart attack, and viciously beaten with a Blue Lives Matter flag as shouts to kill him rang out.

Now, Fanone is ready to tell the full story of that infamous day, along with exploring our country’s most critical issues as someone who has had firsthand experience with many of them. A self-described redneck who voted for Trump in 2016, Fanone’s closest friend was an informant—a Black, transgender, HIV-positive woman who has helped him mature and rethink his methods as a police officer. With his unique insight as an undercover detective and intense desire to do the right thing no matter the cost, Fanone provides a nuanced look into everything from policing to race to politics in a way that is accessible across all party lines.

Determined to make sure no one forgets what happened at the Capitol on January 6th, Fanone has written a timely and “important” (Kirkus Reviews) call to action for anyone who wants to preserve our democracy for future generations.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
• Release date: Oct 11, 2022
• ISBN: 9781797149554

Michael Fanone

Michael Fanone served as a Metropolitan Police Department Officer assigned to the First District for twenty years. Working briefly as a patrol officer and then spending the majority of his career as a vice investigator in various small mission units, Fanone participated in over 2,000 arrests for violent crimes and narcotics trafficking, served as a special task force officer for the FBI, ATF, and DEA, and earned more than three dozen commendations for his work. Fanone currently serves as an analyst for CNN, a security consultant, and a firearms instructor. He lives in Alexandria, Virginia.

Reviews for Hold the Line

[Bianca Chimelli · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Compelling story, easy to follow, couldn't put it down. Excellent!

[michaelwaynehunt · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I don’t click “Like” or “Love” buttons. Also, I seldom “rate” on-line books I’ve read. Why? Because, as an infamous blues song points out, “Ain’t nobody’s business but my own.” However, I greatly appreciate this author’s bravery, honesty and overall perspective regarding the travesty that was the January 6th dilemma. He and his type are the true patriots of the USA and THOSE WHO WANT THE TRUTH in these regards should read, contemplate and shared this TRUTH to all they can! I know I will!

The voice of this author as it unfolds this TRUTH has been one of the greatest audiobook experiences I have encountered and I highly recommend it!

Finally, my sincere thanks to the author and to all who have made experience possible!

[Kelly Greene · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

As a professional historian, I cannot recommend this book strongly enough. Fanone is straightforwardly honest that is refreshing in an era dominated by skewed information on both sides. Refusing to let party politics dictate his actions, Fanone deserves recognition not only for defending the capital during the January 6th insurrection but also for reminding all of us that before we are anything, we are Americans.

[Steven Stankevitz · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I couldn’t put it down. Such an inspirational story told by the author. All Americans should read. Thanks Steve

[Shar · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

"Heartful Sad Truth"
My heart goes out to Michael Fanone and his family and his brothers and sisters in law enforcement.

To have to endure the assault he endured and then have to keep fighting so Jan 6 is remembered as the assault on democracy it was, to me is very wrong. From Michael's point of view I got to be there and to witness the gravity of such a horrific day. That day changed the lives of ALL of us.

I understand police officers better now. The good ones will stand up and answer to the call of duty, not just because it's their job, but because they honor the badge and what it means. They put their life on the line, and especially on that day, there was a loud cry to save democracy and he was an integral part of it. These men stuck together fighting an unimaginable fight.

This book was written very well and I was riveted! Poignant was the part where just before he left his Mother's home to go to the call of duty, his Mother said a prayer from Michael, patron saint of officers.

Thank you Michael. You're a gritty guy, and very heartful. My hope for you is you get the continued help you need and you continue to move down the path of healing.

[Danielle Mcdaniles · Rating: 1 out of 5 stars]

Couldn't get even halfway through without realizing the majority of this is more rhetoric to divide American people even further. The whole thing reads like a 12 year old wrote it and like it's fiction and this is coming from a born and raised Independent from Seattle, before I get accused of being alt right for having an opinion on a book thats requested reviews be made. It feels like this story is just another political agenda and do we really need more of those?

[Michael Clark · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

An excellent account of an honorable
policeman’s analysis
of the Jan. 6th attempted takeover
of our democracy. Michael Fanone’s
humanity and logic shine through in
his depiction of his life and experiences
as an officer of the law.

[Sally Larsen · Rating: 1 out of 5 stars]

Political bull shit. I wish you all could see the set up and the truth of Jan 06th. This may of happened to him but it was not from Trump or the millions of people that was there that day. What happened was set up. Cops moving blocks, cops shoting marchers with rubber bullets, marchers being let into the capital and antifa and FBI agent's dress in trump hats, starting the incitement and antagonizing.
Its a damn shame our country is being pulled, led and propaganded into this crime on our freedom and a beautiful America.

[Erika Apicella · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I highly recommend this book. Thank you Officer Fanone. As a Paramedic for almost 20 years I can relate to your drive to help the community. Thank you.

[Kaley Nigh · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book was phenomenal. While utterly heart-breaking at times, the book was so well-written, and I love that Michael narrated the book himself. It gave it such depth. Michael is a true American hero, very funny and very endearing. I can't wait to see what the future holds for him, he will no doubt do wonderful things for this country.

[Joy Cichewicz · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This is a look at the events Washington DC through the view of one who hav been there before, during and after and tell it straight. This is not some watered down safe commentary and needs to be known.

[Melanie Danielson · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I despise what Mr Fanone & everyone else went through on J6. But also so grateful for men & women who have been able to tell their story. Despite all the backlash.

I listened vs read this book. A book that shouldn't have needed to be written. Since it did, it is excellent. Mr Fanone is real, blunt & honest. Thank you sir. Thank you for your 20+ yrs of service