Best of Best Review is proud to honor A Year Behind the Leash as the Best New Book About Recovery from PTSD of 2026. This powerful memoir, written by Jon T. Harris, provides an honest and deeply personal account of one man’s journey from the brink of despair to finding hope, healing, and purpose through his experiences with PTSD.

A Story of Courage and Hope

Jon T. Harris’s journey is not one often discussed, yet it is one that resonates with many. After a traumatic car crash while on duty as a law enforcement officer, Jon found himself battling PTSD, a struggle that, all too often, goes unseen and misunderstood. But rather than letting this silent battle consume him, Jon chose an extraordinary path to recovery: a return to the very place where others had once fought their own demons, the battlefield. In A Year Behind the Leash, Jon shares how this decision, combined with his bond with military working dogs, became his anchor.

As he spent years serving in Afghanistan, Jon was paired with three remarkable dogs, Uzo, Jack, and Mad, who became his trusted companions. Together, they braved the harsh terrain of war while Jon confronted his deepest fears. His experiences with these dogs, and the lessons they imparted, offer readers a profound look into how love, loyalty, and the courage to face one’s past can be healing forces.

The Power of the Human-Animal Bond

What makes Jon's memoir stand out is not only his bravery but his recognition of the powerful connection between humans and animals. Through the lens of his work with military dogs, he illustrates how animals can provide emotional and psychological healing in ways that are often underestimated. These dogs became more than just partners in the field, they became his support system, guiding him through the most difficult times and offering an anchor when the weight of PTSD threatened to pull him under.

Jon's narrative challenges the misconception that PTSD only affects soldiers. It is a battle that first responders, military personnel, and even everyday individuals can face. In sharing his personal experiences, Jon’s memoir offers a message of hope to those dealing with PTSD: there is always a path forward, even if it seems impossible at first.

A Life Rewritten: From War Zones to Law School

Jon’s recovery didn’t stop with his time in Afghanistan. After returning home, he found himself at a crossroads. His body and mind were broken, but he was not defeated. Instead of succumbing to the weight of his trauma, Jon chose to reinvent himself. He enrolled in law school at the age of 60, an endeavor that would lead him to become a licensed attorney and later, a prosecutor in New Mexico. In 2023, Jon was honored as the Prosecutor of the Year, a testament to his incredible resilience and unwavering commitment to serving others.

In A Year Behind the Leash, Jon shares the personal struggles that led him to law school, his journey through academia as an older student, and the satisfaction he found in serving the community in a completely new way. The memoir paints a vivid picture of a man who refused to let PTSD define his life, and who, instead, found a new mission in helping others. The book is now live on Amazon and can be found at this link.

Why A Year Behind the Leash Stands Out

What makes A Year Behind the Leash more than just a story of survival is Jon’s relentless pursuit of purpose. Through his incredible journey, from a law enforcement officer and military contractor to a prosecutor, Jon exemplifies the idea that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself, to fight for your future, and to find healing in unexpected places. His candid storytelling and the raw emotion he shares in his writing create a deeply human connection with readers, making A Year Behind the Leash a must-read for anyone struggling with PTSD or seeking inspiration in the face of adversity.

Jon’s bravery in confronting his demons, his willingness to share his story, and his determination to find hope in the darkest of times make A Year Behind the Leash an invaluable contribution to the conversation around mental health and recovery.

For more on Jon’s memoir and his journey, visit his website or connect with him on LinkedIn.

Jon T. Harris’s memoir has earned the distinction of being Best New Book About Recovery from PTSD of 2026. It is a testament to the power of resilience, hope, and the ability to rebuild a life that has been shattered by trauma. Through his words, Jon has offered a lifeline to those who need it most, proving that no matter how dark the road may seem, there is always a way to heal and move forward.

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