It's been nearly seven years since I read a Troubleshooters book. I saw this short novella on the library table and thought I'd pay the guys a long overdue visit. FBI guy, Jules Cassidy and his partner, former Hollywood star, Robin Chadwick, were always my favorites of the gang, which shouldn't surprise anyone at all...but they must be busy figuring out married life since they didn't show up, but it was still a welcome mix of low steam romance, suspense, and humor...so it was a warm, familiar visit. The guys all have growing families...some have family members that have grown into young men and women ready to start families of their own...and some of the old timers are beginning to take live easier and think about letting the younger guys take over. But not just yet. It's Hell week and Izzy has the U.S. Navy's future to put through their paces. Some will make it, and some will "ring out." Readers are privy to the thoughts of several of the new guys as well as several old favorites. As in other books in the series, there are multiple plot lines ongoing...something that I have always loved. We get an update on past favorite couples and see several good set-ups for another book. One of the plot lines in this story features Ben Gillman, Danny & Eden’s 16-year-old brother as he experiences “first love" and learns how to handle both a homophobic bully and a big disappointment. I enjoyed Ben’s story and the character development he showed. Also, the role Izzy plays in this one lets us visit inside his head. That's always an adventure. The little book is 178 pages that allows several past favorites to slide in to take part in a visit that was way too short. Whoever said, "You can't go home again". obviously never knew these guys of the "Troubleshooter" series. ( )

A nice mix of plots including the men going through or observing BUDs training, Ben Gillman finding himself in the middle of a high school/home life drama (which echoes his own past), and newbie parents dealing with a colic baby. A definite reread /listen. ( )

Continuing to go through some of the stuff I missed in this series. I really enjoyed this introduction to the Jo(h)ns who showed up in the latest Troubleshooters novel. I look forward to seeing this new group of tadpoles grow up. Especially Seagull. He's awesome. ( )