Title: Fit for Duty
Author: K.A. Kron
Genre: Military Thriller / LGBT Thriller
Book Blurb:
Army Psychiatrist Jennifer Stevens struggles to find answers when her ex-husband, a medic dies violently in front of her after a disastrous rescue mission. Jennifer begins investigating the circumstances of Kevin's death, as she defends her decision to return him to active duty prior to death. Soon she begins to suspect that her efforts to help traumatized soldiers by following military protocols may be inflicting more harm than good in dictating a quick return to duty. Jennifer's own combat trauma, physical and psychological, becomes an obstacle, as she is put on trial for what happened to her ex-husband. And though she has the support of her wife and daughter, her life in the service may soon end in disaster and prison if she can't prove her innocence.
My Review:
An extremely powerful work of fiction that highlights myriad issues facing the US military. The lead character is full of depth and meaning. The author gives life to a character to the point the reader feels what Jen is feeling. The realistic portrayal of modern battlefield conditions is to be commended.
There are many aspects of this book that could be considered the focus or the highlight. This book is a clarion call for the crying lack of proper mental health care for active duty or veterans. This book highlights the immense consequences of the poorly contrived 'Don't ask, don’t tell'. That was supposed to bring acceptance to every American in the army. In too many cases, it just meant there would be a way to report on someone you didn't like.
The edgy suspense surrounding the oft-used oxymoron 'military intelligence' and the aura of coverup all lead to a page-turner. There is a legal drama aspect that brings to mind some of the best R Burr Mason. How to deal with trauma, and how to deal with grief...two of the many questions faced in this book.
Very well written and realistic, this book reads like pages torn from the news. A strong book that will keep the discussion about mental health in the US Army at the forefront. Recommended to fans of military fiction. Recommended to fans of modern military thrillers. A solid thriller for LGBTQ audiences.
My Rating: 5 stars
Buy it Now:
Barnes and Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/fit-for-duty-k-a-kron/1141720928?ean=9781590217214
Author Biography:
K.A. Kron is the author of several acclaimed thrilling books about lesbians in the contemporary American military. She has been nominated for the Golden Crown and Lambda Literary Award. When not writing, she is a practicing attorney living in Pennsylvania with two beloved Cocker Spaniels.
Reviewed by: Mr. N