Book Review: ZERO HERO (THE KATE HUNTINGTON MYSTERIES) by Kassandra Lamb

SYNOPSIS:
On the 10th anniversary of 9/11 the media replays the videos of that day’s devastation, and a national hero’s life begins to unravel.

When the first responder–already struggling with delayed PTSD and addiction–is accused of murdering his former drug dealer, psychotherapist Kate Huntington finds herself going above and beyond to help him. As she and her P.I. husband set out to clear him of the charges, they are thrust into a deadly world of drugs, prostitutes and hired killers, and end up questioning who they are and what it means to be brave.

REVIEW:

Pete doesn't view himself as a hero; he was just doing what he was trained to do even though he wasn't on duty, and he still couldn't save everyone.  He holds it together but then the flashbacks and memories take hold.  He turns to alcohol and drugs and is put on administrative leave.  He is making his way back, he's clean, and dealing with his PTSD. Then he's framed for his friend's murder, or so he says.  

There's something about Pete, his actions on 9/11, and although Kate isn't an addiction counselor, at Rob's request, they both get involved.  Are they crossing their professional boundaries, getting too involved with a client?  Then Skip gets pulled in as well.  But Skip isn't so sure this case is a great idea as he is faced with his own fears and weaknesses.  Not to mention, the case takes on some definite twists and turns as Kate and her friends work to exonerate Pete while keeping him on the road to recovery. Kate and her group of conspirators are likable, but complex characters with depth and surprises.  This is a fast paced read that will keep you reading and keep you guessing. Better plan for an early start and a late night!  

AMAZON

This is the 6th in the Kate Huntington Series.  It is intended and definitely can be read as a stand-alone.  As a Kate Huntington fan, I'd recommend you read the others - though you don't have to read them in order:

Multiple Motives (#1)

Ill-timed Entanglements (#2)

Family Fallacies (#3)

Celebrity Status (#4) 

Collateral Casualties (#5)

Zero Hero (#6)