From Ashes to Honor

By Loree Lough

Description:

Minutes before two jumbo jets changed U.S. history, NYPD officer Austin Finley ignored the call from his brother. In the months after 9/11, guilt induces "conduct unbecoming," forcing the department to require therapy with Dr. Mercy Samara, whose evaluation cost Austin his job. Years later, her own haunting nightmares drive her to Baltimore...where Austin is working as an EMT. When their paths cross again, will their common (and painful) memories bring them closer...or drive them further apart?

Book Takeaway:

Some say true heroes are hard to find these days, but it isn't true: They're all around us and easy to spot...in police and fire stations, as well as military uniforms.

Why the author wrote this book:

Like every American, memories of that fateful day haunted me for years. I needed to show my respect for those who'd perished in New York, DC, and the field in Shanksville, PA, and at the same time, needed to honor all who had so bravely walked through walls of choking smoke to save the thousands trapped behind walls of fire and ash. Some first responders never made it out alive, while others suffered lifelong physical and emotional injuries of their own. The First Responders series is my way of saying thank you to them...and to every firefighter, cop, paramedic, or soldier who daily puts his or her life on the line to ensure our safety.