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The Hate Next Door: Undercover within the New Face of White Supremacy
"This book is riveting yet shocking even for a girl who grew up in a racial minded cult. The amount of hate is alarming, enlightening, and a must-read for anyone wanting to make a difference against injustice." ―Rachel Jeffs, author of Breaking Free , activist, FLDS polygamist cult survivor The changing face of hate is on your doorstep… Matt Browning, an undercover detective in Arizona, thought he knew what hate looked like; that is, until he got a front row seat to White supremacy. What followed was a career of hardship and danger, and what he uncovered can no longer go left untold. For more than twenty-five years, Browning has been infiltrating, documenting, and disrupting white supremacy movements from the inside, gaining an intimate vantage point to the KKK, skinheads, border militias, Proud Boys, and other White Power groups, as they organized and grew, their ranks alarmingly including police force and military veterans. Together with his intrepid wife, Tawni, he adopted fake IDs and ideologies, seeking the arrest of its participants―none more so than J.T. Ready, a neo-Nazi who took "hunting trips" for border migrants while gaining mainstream acceptance as a political candidate―and terrorizing Browning's family. What others dismissed as fringe groups, Browning quickly recognized as large and interconnecting organizations permeating into every facet of American society, effectively spreading their dangerous and repugnant rhetoric at unprecedented speeds. Today, after the violent storming of the Capitol on January 6th, the threat posed by these toxic organizations can no longer be ignored by the public at large. In this imperative and gripping narrative, Browning gives readers the inside story of modern-day White supremacy in America in all of its ugly variation. Following his dramatic, high-stakes attempts to take down powerful White supremacists, the torment he faced whilst working undercover, and his eventual creation of the international Skinhead Intelligence Network, The Hate Next Door is a riveting, enlightening, and essential look at the what, where, when, and why of white supremacist groups, how to identify them, and why we must all do everything in our power to fight against them. "This book is an invaluable wake up call to all of us regarding the work that is still left to be accomplished in order to understand and effectively address racism and extremism in every facet of American culture." ―Joel Beckstead, PhD Certified clinical psychologist, Clinical Director at the US Federal Indian Health Services, and former post-9/11 psychologist to the Pentagon
352 pages, Hardcover
First published July 4, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
June 16, 2023
This one had a lot of things that I'm an absolute sucker for, mainly an author having good things to say about their spouse, maybe it's because for most of my life it seemed like no one in the movies, TV or books had anything good to say about their spouses that seeing someone having only good things to say about their spouse and appreciating them makes me happy but regardless of the reason I enjoyed the fact that Browning spoke of his wife and family with a lot of love and pride. The autobiography aspect of this book is powerful and very human, Browning is honest about his moments of despair and the toll the path he chose took on him and his mental health.
I enjoyed that Browning was pretty realistic about the law enforcement machine, the drive for it to make money, the way it's too easy for white supremacist to slip through the cracks and become police officers and so on. It's something a lot of people from outside of law enforcement have been saying for a long time but for someone who made their career in that system to outright say it is pretty solid.
He paints an extremely bleak but real picture of how supremacist groups infiltrated and positioned themselves in a variety of positions both elected and non-elected and subtly use the power they thus acquired in ways that allow them to act with near total impunity.
Browning does a pretty good job of explaining concepts, groups and figures so that even someone with little to no knowledge of the topic can understand and not need to do a bunch of side research to figure out who's who and what's what.
Now for what I didn't enjoy as much. The structure of this book was a bit of a struggle for me, we would be deep into something that happened a "long" time ago and *suddenly a wild example of recent racially motivated violence appears* that gave the book somewhat of a disjointed feeling.
At the end of the book there's a nifty list of symbols and dog whistles to recognize associated with white supremacist people/groups and while Browning included warning that context matters for a lot of them, I was surprised to see that he did not include such a warning for ACAB because the vast majority of the people I've seen using that one are not white supremacists in the least (it might vary depending where you live but yeah ACAB is definitely not a sure sign of white supremacist ideologies/sympathies or of violent ideology in fact a lot of the people who espouse it actually want less violence and hate through the abolition of a deeply flawed system of enforcement of the capitalist status quo and while I can understand why it might feel hateful for the cops who are part of the organization I think the nuance is important here) Just like I was a little taken aback by the handful of times he brought up Antifa because try as I may I have still to see anyone provide evidence of any group organized around the anti-fascist ideology in a similar way to white supremacist groups even exists. I don't think these things should be ground to outright dismiss this book and Browning's work, it its obvious that both him and his family made great sacrifices in order to fight extremism and that they show a very deep level of empathy and humanity, I just think it's worth being aware of them.
I received a digital review copy of this book from Sourcebooks through Netgalley and this is my honest review.
I enjoyed that Browning was pretty realistic about the law enforcement machine, the drive for it to make money, the way it's too easy for white supremacist to slip through the cracks and become police officers and so on. It's something a lot of people from outside of law enforcement have been saying for a long time but for someone who made their career in that system to outright say it is pretty solid.
He paints an extremely bleak but real picture of how supremacist groups infiltrated and positioned themselves in a variety of positions both elected and non-elected and subtly use the power they thus acquired in ways that allow them to act with near total impunity.
Browning does a pretty good job of explaining concepts, groups and figures so that even someone with little to no knowledge of the topic can understand and not need to do a bunch of side research to figure out who's who and what's what.
Now for what I didn't enjoy as much. The structure of this book was a bit of a struggle for me, we would be deep into something that happened a "long" time ago and *suddenly a wild example of recent racially motivated violence appears* that gave the book somewhat of a disjointed feeling.
At the end of the book there's a nifty list of symbols and dog whistles to recognize associated with white supremacist people/groups and while Browning included warning that context matters for a lot of them, I was surprised to see that he did not include such a warning for ACAB because the vast majority of the people I've seen using that one are not white supremacists in the least (it might vary depending where you live but yeah ACAB is definitely not a sure sign of white supremacist ideologies/sympathies or of violent ideology in fact a lot of the people who espouse it actually want less violence and hate through the abolition of a deeply flawed system of enforcement of the capitalist status quo and while I can understand why it might feel hateful for the cops who are part of the organization I think the nuance is important here) Just like I was a little taken aback by the handful of times he brought up Antifa because try as I may I have still to see anyone provide evidence of any group organized around the anti-fascist ideology in a similar way to white supremacist groups even exists. I don't think these things should be ground to outright dismiss this book and Browning's work, it its obvious that both him and his family made great sacrifices in order to fight extremism and that they show a very deep level of empathy and humanity, I just think it's worth being aware of them.
I received a digital review copy of this book from Sourcebooks through Netgalley and this is my honest review.
June 16, 2023
I keep telling people that white supremacist's are the greatest threat to national security, and also the most dangerous people in our communities, but no one wants to take it seriously.
People just want to act like these monsters are "normal" and can just exist as our neighbors, with their kids in the same class as the rest of us, but that's not reality. These people are terrifying.
I was so grateful for this book.
I love Doc Martens but after reading this I might just not wear them.
The best part of this book, that gave me legit nightmares, is the explanation of the symbols.
I might never relax again after reading this. I asked for this ARC because a man was beat by cops in the middle of a street in town. I investigated his personal life and discovered that he was a white supremacist. I dove deeper and I found a whole .nest of them right here in town where I raise my kids. I wanted to know more, but I was looking for reassurance. This is not that except for the knowledge that the police are looking and they know who it is they need to keep an eye on. They aren't letting these guys do their crimes.
On the other hand, one of the reason people don't trust cops right now is because they believe they are the white supremacists. And some DO have those tattoos.
The book does cover that. I appreciate it.
I think Tawnie sounds like the coolest ever.
Thank you for doing this work and writing this book.
Be safe.
People just want to act like these monsters are "normal" and can just exist as our neighbors, with their kids in the same class as the rest of us, but that's not reality. These people are terrifying.
I was so grateful for this book.
I love Doc Martens but after reading this I might just not wear them.
The best part of this book, that gave me legit nightmares, is the explanation of the symbols.
I might never relax again after reading this. I asked for this ARC because a man was beat by cops in the middle of a street in town. I investigated his personal life and discovered that he was a white supremacist. I dove deeper and I found a whole .nest of them right here in town where I raise my kids. I wanted to know more, but I was looking for reassurance. This is not that except for the knowledge that the police are looking and they know who it is they need to keep an eye on. They aren't letting these guys do their crimes.
On the other hand, one of the reason people don't trust cops right now is because they believe they are the white supremacists. And some DO have those tattoos.
The book does cover that. I appreciate it.
I think Tawnie sounds like the coolest ever.
Thank you for doing this work and writing this book.
Be safe.
Shelved as '2023'
June 6, 2024📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks
October 25, 2023
Let me start by saying; the content of this book is vital and is something people need to know. Violent racism hides in plain sight amongst us.
That being said, oh my god, why didn’t this book have an editor. It was absolutely painful to read. And the blurbs at the end of each chapter giving the perpetrators of hate crimes more notoriety were not cool.
I also should’ve expected this, given the authors background but he does not check his own casual racism, casual misogyny and casual classism throughout. One example, he gives his construction crew donuts and seems angry that they are not more grateful, pointing out that the only person to say thank you was a white pride leader.
I’m grateful to the work that this man did to root out the violent extremists in our midst but I definitely could’ve done without reading this book.
That being said, oh my god, why didn’t this book have an editor. It was absolutely painful to read. And the blurbs at the end of each chapter giving the perpetrators of hate crimes more notoriety were not cool.
I also should’ve expected this, given the authors background but he does not check his own casual racism, casual misogyny and casual classism throughout. One example, he gives his construction crew donuts and seems angry that they are not more grateful, pointing out that the only person to say thank you was a white pride leader.
I’m grateful to the work that this man did to root out the violent extremists in our midst but I definitely could’ve done without reading this book.
July 3, 2023
The Hate Next Door is a fascinating and exceptionally researched book on the plethora of white supremacy organisations across America, their formation, evolution and information on those who get involved in said groups written by Matson Browning, a former police officer and FBI agent who spent twenty years undercover partaking in the nefarious and disturbing discussions and plans to set their agendas in motion. The longest an FBI agent is usually allowed to remain undercover is two years and Browning can see why as after some time of successful infiltration he began to lose his sense of identity; it eventually became so severe that he considered taking his own life on multiple occasions. Luckily, with his wife, Faith, by his side, he managed to return to a healthier place mentally.
After Browning had served in Mesa police for four years he had his first experience of a white supremacist trying to kill him. Jason Stafford was a new recruit of a local neo-nazi group and pulling a gun on Matson had been to prove himself to his new buddies, an initiation, if you will. Even after trying to murder a rookie officer in cold blood after the first incident, Stafford was jailed, but the police in the area failed to accept that there was a skinhead problem and it was brushed under the carpet as just another violent white boy. In fact, until he was aware enough of the scene and asked direct questions everyone including his colleagues looked at him as though he had sprouted an extra head when bringing this up as an area where crime and politics intersect and that has seen exponential growth of late. After his superiors agree to let him go undercover to investigate the local white supremacist movement he begins to frequent The Nile Club in downtown Mesa, a hang-out spot for skinheads from across Arizona and created a new identity: that of Patrick "Packy" Von Fleckenger.
Within a couple of weeks, his new “Packy” PO Box was full of pamphlets, and he was a card-carrying member of the KKK, Ayran Nation and the National Alliance. Just when he thought he was doing a good job of keeping his professional and working lives completely separated, he and wife Tawni hired a local building firm to do some work on their home and who turned up but two white supremacist framers he identifies due to their Hammers apparel and a neck tattoo. Not long after that, he came across another while attending Sunday dinner at his mother in laws house. Tawni's sister's boyfriend, Chris, had both an 88 tattoo and one depicting a male skinhead behind bars, presumably himself. He was afraid that the two worlds were converging dangerously and that it could culminate in his family being in harm's way. And, of course, it did. This is a compulsive, prescient and gripping account of one man's attempt to stymie the growth of white supremacy and rising nationalistic tension in America. Reading like a thriller, I could not put this down and found it impeccably researched and thoroughly engaging from beginning to denouement.
After Browning had served in Mesa police for four years he had his first experience of a white supremacist trying to kill him. Jason Stafford was a new recruit of a local neo-nazi group and pulling a gun on Matson had been to prove himself to his new buddies, an initiation, if you will. Even after trying to murder a rookie officer in cold blood after the first incident, Stafford was jailed, but the police in the area failed to accept that there was a skinhead problem and it was brushed under the carpet as just another violent white boy. In fact, until he was aware enough of the scene and asked direct questions everyone including his colleagues looked at him as though he had sprouted an extra head when bringing this up as an area where crime and politics intersect and that has seen exponential growth of late. After his superiors agree to let him go undercover to investigate the local white supremacist movement he begins to frequent The Nile Club in downtown Mesa, a hang-out spot for skinheads from across Arizona and created a new identity: that of Patrick "Packy" Von Fleckenger.
Within a couple of weeks, his new “Packy” PO Box was full of pamphlets, and he was a card-carrying member of the KKK, Ayran Nation and the National Alliance. Just when he thought he was doing a good job of keeping his professional and working lives completely separated, he and wife Tawni hired a local building firm to do some work on their home and who turned up but two white supremacist framers he identifies due to their Hammers apparel and a neck tattoo. Not long after that, he came across another while attending Sunday dinner at his mother in laws house. Tawni's sister's boyfriend, Chris, had both an 88 tattoo and one depicting a male skinhead behind bars, presumably himself. He was afraid that the two worlds were converging dangerously and that it could culminate in his family being in harm's way. And, of course, it did. This is a compulsive, prescient and gripping account of one man's attempt to stymie the growth of white supremacy and rising nationalistic tension in America. Reading like a thriller, I could not put this down and found it impeccably researched and thoroughly engaging from beginning to denouement.
July 9, 2023
The Hate Next Door is such a great book! I love true crime documentaries and shows, but have a hard time reading books if the show or movie is based on one because they are usually dry and hard to get through. This book perfectly avoids that trope and seamlessly blends past stories into tangible and feasible solutions that an average person can use, not just law enforcement. That's just one of the many areas where this book shines.
I read the book because it was based in Arizona where I grew up. I had no idea White supremacy runs rampant out there. I, like Matson, was oblivious to its presence. A lot of disgusting things can thrive in the dark; this is no exception. Hatred in any form hurts people (including the person doing the hating). There is an analogy Matson made in his book about living in a dark room and then turning on the light and just seeing bugs run around. Once the light comes on, there is no place the bugs can run to and you will always be aware of them. This analogy is so great! To uproot hate in any form - not only White supremacy - we need to first be aware of its presence. From that awareness, we can make a difference. The last chapter of the book gives us the tools to do so. Yes, the tools are designed for use around people you know, but the first step (understanding) can be applied to anyone. From understanding, we can learn why someone turned to radical ideas and discuss, not argue, ways to be better.
I moved from Arizona, so I don't get to see if I can be more aware of nationalists or other hate groups. But hate is anywhere and I honestly can't wait to make a difference in some form. I won't be infiltrating any groups, but I will give more love and understanding to others. Like Matson's wife, Tawni, says: "Love wins." We can all do more to love others and this books highlights the importance of doing so.
Outside the White supremacy stories and law enforcement red tape, it also takes the dive into mental health. In a society where mental health is being utilized more but still somewhat taboo, it's honestly refreshing to read about how life-saving of a tool therapy is AND to see someone plead with others to get help. While this book shows us how deceptive radical hate groups can be, it also highlights just how detrimental lack of mental health support in law enforcement, or truly any field, can hurt people too. I'm so happy to see this discussed openly and candidly. We need more people who do this.
I honestly can't put into words how much I enjoyed this book. I spent 8 hours straight the other day reading it and honestly want another book to read. It's amazing to see how great of an impact just one person, and now two people, have made. Just think of the impact hundreds, thousands, or even millions can make. Read this book - you and others will be better for it.
I read the book because it was based in Arizona where I grew up. I had no idea White supremacy runs rampant out there. I, like Matson, was oblivious to its presence. A lot of disgusting things can thrive in the dark; this is no exception. Hatred in any form hurts people (including the person doing the hating). There is an analogy Matson made in his book about living in a dark room and then turning on the light and just seeing bugs run around. Once the light comes on, there is no place the bugs can run to and you will always be aware of them. This analogy is so great! To uproot hate in any form - not only White supremacy - we need to first be aware of its presence. From that awareness, we can make a difference. The last chapter of the book gives us the tools to do so. Yes, the tools are designed for use around people you know, but the first step (understanding) can be applied to anyone. From understanding, we can learn why someone turned to radical ideas and discuss, not argue, ways to be better.
I moved from Arizona, so I don't get to see if I can be more aware of nationalists or other hate groups. But hate is anywhere and I honestly can't wait to make a difference in some form. I won't be infiltrating any groups, but I will give more love and understanding to others. Like Matson's wife, Tawni, says: "Love wins." We can all do more to love others and this books highlights the importance of doing so.
Outside the White supremacy stories and law enforcement red tape, it also takes the dive into mental health. In a society where mental health is being utilized more but still somewhat taboo, it's honestly refreshing to read about how life-saving of a tool therapy is AND to see someone plead with others to get help. While this book shows us how deceptive radical hate groups can be, it also highlights just how detrimental lack of mental health support in law enforcement, or truly any field, can hurt people too. I'm so happy to see this discussed openly and candidly. We need more people who do this.
I honestly can't put into words how much I enjoyed this book. I spent 8 hours straight the other day reading it and honestly want another book to read. It's amazing to see how great of an impact just one person, and now two people, have made. Just think of the impact hundreds, thousands, or even millions can make. Read this book - you and others will be better for it.
May 7, 2023
Matt Browning has authored a thought-provoking book that reads about the history of racial hatred and the many organisations that advocate and support such horrible thinking. Matt Browning is a retired detective who worked undercover for Twenty-Five years infiltrating these hate groups. Matt tells how he infiltrates these groups from the inside and gains the trust of its members whilst enlightening us on the ugly variations of White Supremist groups. The book is thought provoking and Matt does an amazing job of describing how to fight against those groups.
The stories are extremely relevant in 2023 due to computers and the internet where a lot of these hate groups now recruit for their caus3s. They dig up hatred and infiltrate protesters at meetings around the world and incite riots and murder. We owe the police and undercover officers the greatest respect and gratitude as they put their lives at risk to infiltrate and put these monsters behind bars to make the world a better place for us all.
This book is a must read to help fight against racism around the world and it would make an excellent book club choice. Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The stories are extremely relevant in 2023 due to computers and the internet where a lot of these hate groups now recruit for their caus3s. They dig up hatred and infiltrate protesters at meetings around the world and incite riots and murder. We owe the police and undercover officers the greatest respect and gratitude as they put their lives at risk to infiltrate and put these monsters behind bars to make the world a better place for us all.
This book is a must read to help fight against racism around the world and it would make an excellent book club choice. Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 5, 2023
This was well written and informative. I found it engaging, but of course horrifying. I’m glad I know more about the subject now. I hadn’t realized it was written by one of the security guys from Escaping Polygamy until at least halfway through the book. That was kind of cool. I really enjoy that show and ended up doing a ton of research about various sects of polygamy thanks to that show. I also really appreciated the relationship that Matt and Tawni have. She seems like a pretty amazing woman! I’m definitely going to recommend this book to other people, or at least share my newfound knowledge.
January 20, 2024
Mind blowing…. A must read for all Americans and people from everywhere else, too.
April 26, 2024
This is a gutsy and enlightening wake-up call that everyone should read. Matt Browning successfully infiltrated skinhead and other white supremacist groups as an undercover cop in Mesa, Arizona. His work almost cost him his marriage, his sanity, and his life.
What he learned about these fringe hate groups is shocking—how they recruit, the violence they perpetrate, and how to recognize them. Powerful stories of hate crimes and their perpetrators are sprinkled throughout. Yes, there’s an intersection of neo-Nazi groups with some veterans, police, politicians, January 6th, and even your neighbor next door. A must-read for anyone who cares about racism and injustice in America.
What he learned about these fringe hate groups is shocking—how they recruit, the violence they perpetrate, and how to recognize them. Powerful stories of hate crimes and their perpetrators are sprinkled throughout. Yes, there’s an intersection of neo-Nazi groups with some veterans, police, politicians, January 6th, and even your neighbor next door. A must-read for anyone who cares about racism and injustice in America.
March 17, 2024
Excellent and incredibly frightening.
Read
February 28, 2024I was not totally ignorant of this subject before reading The Hate Next Door. I've known that extremist hate groups pose an increasingly dire threat both here and in other countries. I've listened to FBI Director Christopher Wray warn repeatedly that these menacing forces are on the rise and shouldn't be discounted as a violent force amongst us. As an Oklahoman, I recall that the terrible OKC bombing was orchestrated by a government hater motivated by what he learned through his association with a white supremacist hate group. I've followed the news as more incidents of hate-fueled violence unfolded in a Black church in Charleston, in a shopping site in El Paso, in a New York grocery store, in mosques, in synagogues, and elsewhere. What this book does so pointedly is to place that hatred on our doorsteps.
Matt Browning was much like most of us, aware of the problem but not truly understanding the impact of these hate groups in our own lives. He was a police officer in Mesa, Arizona who decided to do undercover work infiltrating the white supremacist movement in the Phoenix/Mesa area. Years of his undercover work with research assistance from his wife Tawni, led him to see that white supremacist attitudes have permeated our communities to an alarming rate. He found hard core and violent supremacists in his own neighborhood, at local entertainment venues and parks, in churches, in the military, in law enforcement, and shopping at Walmart or meeting at local hotels. Browning (AKA Packy) learned to recognize their symbols and tattoos, their manner of dress, their hierarchies, their rivalries, their belief systems, and their terminologies. Reading about those characteristics made me realize that I've known people who might fit the mold. It made me understand on a more personal level that the hate is nearby, or as the book title says, "next door."
I've noticed a few reviews that fault Browning's writing style or his organization of narrative. I think it's important to understand that he did not write the book in hopes of being a literary giant. He wrote it because he had important information to share with a larger audience. The words may not flow artfully, but the message is direct, forthright, credible, and even scary. Matt Browning wants us all to know what we're up against in hopes that we'll be ready to confront all that hate next door with decency, instead of ignoring it in complacency.
Matt Browning was much like most of us, aware of the problem but not truly understanding the impact of these hate groups in our own lives. He was a police officer in Mesa, Arizona who decided to do undercover work infiltrating the white supremacist movement in the Phoenix/Mesa area. Years of his undercover work with research assistance from his wife Tawni, led him to see that white supremacist attitudes have permeated our communities to an alarming rate. He found hard core and violent supremacists in his own neighborhood, at local entertainment venues and parks, in churches, in the military, in law enforcement, and shopping at Walmart or meeting at local hotels. Browning (AKA Packy) learned to recognize their symbols and tattoos, their manner of dress, their hierarchies, their rivalries, their belief systems, and their terminologies. Reading about those characteristics made me realize that I've known people who might fit the mold. It made me understand on a more personal level that the hate is nearby, or as the book title says, "next door."
I've noticed a few reviews that fault Browning's writing style or his organization of narrative. I think it's important to understand that he did not write the book in hopes of being a literary giant. He wrote it because he had important information to share with a larger audience. The words may not flow artfully, but the message is direct, forthright, credible, and even scary. Matt Browning wants us all to know what we're up against in hopes that we'll be ready to confront all that hate next door with decency, instead of ignoring it in complacency.
July 8, 2023
Wow! I was not anticipating being pulled in and captivated by this book as quickly and as powerfully as I was!!
I’m not drawn to “true-life crime” media as I find it sad, dark and disheartening. But this read was completely different. Even though these emotions bubbled up as I read, I felt driven to continue. I was being taught, educated and shown the dangerous and very real struggle that comes when doing what is right and moral meets a broken, (at times corrupt) system that truly doesn’t understand the magnitude of the problem. Browning saw and understood this years ago and worked tirelessly to share his knowledge with others. Hate, in all its forms, is dangerous. It isn’t about politics, it is about understanding where it begins and how we can stop it.
Browning shines a light not only on the extreme danger he encountered during his years of law enforcement and undercover work, but also on the impact this kind of relentless stress brings on the long-term mental health of those involved, and the impact this has on their loved ones. He doesn’t shy away from honestly discussing the flawed system (criminal justice, political and society at large) in which he worked, and the need for change. But he also focuses on ways that change can happen. He and his wife chose not to ignore the problem, and have committed their lives to sharing what hate is capable of and how we can work to stop it. What they have learned is now being shared and taught nationwide and to government agencies fighting this same issue around the world.
This is a must read for all who see a need for change in our society, in our communities. We cannot fix something we don’t understand. Browning lets us into this multi-faceted and complex issue, and then teaches us how we can make a difference where we are. I feel more empowered now to recognize the signs of this hate and how I can combat it in my world. I want to be part of that change.
I’m not drawn to “true-life crime” media as I find it sad, dark and disheartening. But this read was completely different. Even though these emotions bubbled up as I read, I felt driven to continue. I was being taught, educated and shown the dangerous and very real struggle that comes when doing what is right and moral meets a broken, (at times corrupt) system that truly doesn’t understand the magnitude of the problem. Browning saw and understood this years ago and worked tirelessly to share his knowledge with others. Hate, in all its forms, is dangerous. It isn’t about politics, it is about understanding where it begins and how we can stop it.
Browning shines a light not only on the extreme danger he encountered during his years of law enforcement and undercover work, but also on the impact this kind of relentless stress brings on the long-term mental health of those involved, and the impact this has on their loved ones. He doesn’t shy away from honestly discussing the flawed system (criminal justice, political and society at large) in which he worked, and the need for change. But he also focuses on ways that change can happen. He and his wife chose not to ignore the problem, and have committed their lives to sharing what hate is capable of and how we can work to stop it. What they have learned is now being shared and taught nationwide and to government agencies fighting this same issue around the world.
This is a must read for all who see a need for change in our society, in our communities. We cannot fix something we don’t understand. Browning lets us into this multi-faceted and complex issue, and then teaches us how we can make a difference where we are. I feel more empowered now to recognize the signs of this hate and how I can combat it in my world. I want to be part of that change.
Read
October 7, 2023Set in Phoenix over the course of the last 25 years or so, the book spans the 20-year career of a Mesa (Arizona) police detective who essentially led two parallel lives: one as a family man, unnerved by the unacknowledged presence of white supremacist hate groups in the Valley; the second as an undercover officer learning about and infiltrating white power groups (photographing inidividuals and tattooes; interpreting "tats;" attending meetings; identifying groups and members and relationships and power struggles), even as he carried out his regular police officer duties (so maybe it's three parallel lives!) -- and well aware of the need to keep the parallel lives separate in order to keep his family safe.
Who would think that it would be such a challenge to convince the powers-that-be that his was a viable concern? Fortunately, he had a supportive boss. And who would think that geometry teachers and politicians and blue collar workers and on and on would be members of such groups?
Written with his wife, supportive of her activities producing the documentary Escaping Polygamy and assiting those attempting to leave the cult,(just as she was as she was of his, it's the story of two committed, dedicated people making the world a better place--and continuing on into "retirement," as each/both consult on each activity, including the organization they founded together, to bring law enforcement agencies together, Supremacist Intelligence Network (acronym SIN).
A concerning issue and an enlightening book -- and a never-ending challenge...
Who would think that it would be such a challenge to convince the powers-that-be that his was a viable concern? Fortunately, he had a supportive boss. And who would think that geometry teachers and politicians and blue collar workers and on and on would be members of such groups?
Written with his wife, supportive of her activities producing the documentary Escaping Polygamy and assiting those attempting to leave the cult,(just as she was as she was of his, it's the story of two committed, dedicated people making the world a better place--and continuing on into "retirement," as each/both consult on each activity, including the organization they founded together, to bring law enforcement agencies together, Supremacist Intelligence Network (acronym SIN).
A concerning issue and an enlightening book -- and a never-ending challenge...
July 10, 2023
Sex, drugs and rock and roll, plus a whole lot more that makes you think. The Hate Next Door has everything. This book will not only blow your mind but if you let it, it will change your life. It has it all from cop stories, family life, politics, and an underlying thread of love that we just don't see anymore. I was drawn in by Tawni's grace and badassery. I have a whole new respect for the law enforcement profession and appreciate Matson Browning for his plain talk, courage and vulnerability. You'll laugh, you'll cry and be more invested than you want to be at times. It's everything good and bad about humanity all mixed together; quite the wild ride as well as a mind screw as you continually remind yourself this is a true story and not some great piece of nonfiction. Hate is around us all but the book has some really great, relatable ways we can all make a difference and protect our communities and the ones we love. Thanks to Matson Browning for making a difference in this world and in the life of this one man. From this read, I am changed. You will be too.
March 19, 2023
It’s a scary world out there, especially these days. We should all become better informed on what’s going on in our neighborhoods, in our cities and in our lives, which is why I wanted to read The Hate Next Door. If you’ve ever wondered if racism is still rampant, you’ll want to read this. White Supremacists have infiltrated the parts of our government that should be free of hate and stand for equality, and that is frightening.
I learned so much more than I ever knew about hate groups, not only in the US but other countries also.
Matt Browning is a retired detective who worked undercover for 25 years infiltrating hate groups. He writes a thought provoking and gripping story that is extremely relevant still in 2023. At the end of the book, he does an amazing job of describing how to fight against white supremacy and other groups. This book is a must read and would make an excellent book club choice.
I learned so much more than I ever knew about hate groups, not only in the US but other countries also.
Matt Browning is a retired detective who worked undercover for 25 years infiltrating hate groups. He writes a thought provoking and gripping story that is extremely relevant still in 2023. At the end of the book, he does an amazing job of describing how to fight against white supremacy and other groups. This book is a must read and would make an excellent book club choice.
January 19, 2024
This book is not the most entertaining, but it does offer some important information about white supremacy in America. It does no one any good to pretend we do not have a problem.
September 10, 2023
A quick read for me because I couldn’t put it down. Matt has an important message about what is happening in these hate groups. They exist and they are ever present. Probably a little too close for comfort as much of what he was talking about is MILES from my home here in Arizona.
Ultimately what I got out of this book is we need to shed light on these types of groups. It needs to be addressed. Mostly it seems the people who need the help are ones that feel isolated, bullied or need a place to belong.
I enjoyed that he included how his wife kept him grounded and the work the both continue to do.
This book is both shocking and hopeful that things can change. A very realistic and honest approach to his experience.
Ultimately what I got out of this book is we need to shed light on these types of groups. It needs to be addressed. Mostly it seems the people who need the help are ones that feel isolated, bullied or need a place to belong.
I enjoyed that he included how his wife kept him grounded and the work the both continue to do.
This book is both shocking and hopeful that things can change. A very realistic and honest approach to his experience.
July 18, 2023
White supremacy is not really a topic that I’m that interested in, but this book was fascinating. It’s one policeman’s descent into the world of skinheads, racial murderers and other unsavory characters, while he is undercover. I had no idea how many police and military are a part of this counterculture. He discusses various tattoos that they get so they can ID others with similar ideas. He talks about how the movement extends to Europe and he becomes one of the leading experts on the subject. I guarantee you will learn something from this book.
July 5, 2023
I wanted to like this book a lot, but the uneven writing style really bothered me while reading it. It is a really important story that more law enforcement especially need to read since locally grown hate groups are embedded in people's own neighborhoods, but I think it could have used a better editor throughout the book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a review, all thoughts are my own.
2.5 rounded up to 3
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a review, all thoughts are my own.
2.5 rounded up to 3
October 14, 2023
Fantastic read and impressive history on the part of the author.
This scratched an itch started by an improperly-titled book I read a few weeks ago in that it had copious amounts of recounting of the author's time spent undercover in the groups he was targeting. Mix in the excellent explainers and history provided and you have an outstanding resource to see a glimpse inside the cancerous underbelly of our society.
Can't recommend enough for people researching extremism and hate groups.
This scratched an itch started by an improperly-titled book I read a few weeks ago in that it had copious amounts of recounting of the author's time spent undercover in the groups he was targeting. Mix in the excellent explainers and history provided and you have an outstanding resource to see a glimpse inside the cancerous underbelly of our society.
Can't recommend enough for people researching extremism and hate groups.
July 8, 2023
Great read for LE and Corrections Professionals, also great read for anyone who is interested in Law Enforcement investigations- Browning captures the depths of his professional work. If you are ever able to partake in his trainings- this book adds such wonderful supplemental information and insight
Highly recommend!!!
Highly recommend!!!
July 24, 2023
If you care about your neighborhood, your community and your country, read this book. A MUST for us all and should be in every politician, clinician, teacher and parent's hands. Masterfully written and engaging with such an important message. If you don't read another book this summer, read this one. I promise it will not disappoint.
August 2, 2023
Wow. I don't think my skin will ever stop crawling. This is a real eye-opener.
August 27, 2023
Wow. This book was difficult to read, but important. I wasn’t super surprised by anything per se, but it’s disturbing to see how white supremacists hide in plain sight.
September 25, 2023
This was a really accessible book introducing me to white supremacy in the west. I feel like I learned a lot!
December 14, 2023
excellent book!
Should be required reading. Matt and his family deserve medals for all they’ve done. Very informative and reads like a good novel, couldn’t put it down
Should be required reading. Matt and his family deserve medals for all they’ve done. Very informative and reads like a good novel, couldn’t put it down
November 15, 2023
If you want to know about the status of white supremacy in this country this is the book for you. This former policeman from Arizona went undercover to begin investigating white supremacy gangs in his home town but eventually left the force because the police didn’t turn out to be the best place for stopping white supremacy, (a mix of too many other crimes to work on plus a certain sympathy towards their crimes by some in blue.) His work starting and running the skinhead intelligence network has allowed him to study and share his intelligence information on groups to policing agencies around the world.
The attempts to turn teenagers, young soldiers and police to their hate group beliefs and crimes is the most frightening aspect that I read along with the groups that literally hint down and kill illegal immigrants along the border.
He does describe the clothing, tattoos, etc. that mostly men like to wear when they are full in to white supremacy groups but I think there are probably many more people involved, not so visibly detectable.
The attempts to turn teenagers, young soldiers and police to their hate group beliefs and crimes is the most frightening aspect that I read along with the groups that literally hint down and kill illegal immigrants along the border.
He does describe the clothing, tattoos, etc. that mostly men like to wear when they are full in to white supremacy groups but I think there are probably many more people involved, not so visibly detectable.
August 21, 2023
Going into this book, I had a fairly decent knowledge of White Surpremacy and how deep some of the roots were. I was not surprised by a lot in this book, but I'm sure many many others will be. Seeing as Matt, a detective himself, had trouble getting others to open their eyes. It was no surprise to me every time he mentioned the lack of concern law enforcement had towards the growing problem. I enjoyed hearing about the local scene and while I knew some of the dogwhistles of White Supremacy, just how many there were was insane. Also learning about the sheer amount of groups there were. I knew of the more common and loudest (Aryans, Proud Boys, classic supremacists) but some were very new. Enjoyed the book, however some of the jumping around took some adjustment. Overall though, a well done book
November 22, 2023
A book that is so frightening because the monster is lying right beneath us. Matxon Browning does a great job of showing how close the neo-Nazi terror is to us and how easily it fits in. What makes it worse I think is that many people can't or won't see the danger, while others are using it to further their own ends. The book does a great job detailing how good people are joining together to expose and fight, the problem.
A book well worth your read.
A book well worth your read.
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