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Troubleshooters #20
Jules Cassidy, P.I.: Troubleshooters #20
Troubleshooters Series # 20
Troubleshooters series fan-favorite Jules Cassidy is back!
Starting over is never easy, but when Jules is forced out of the FBI, he has the help of his good friend, former Navy SEAL Sam Starrett, as he takes on his first case as head of the Troubleshooters personal security firm’s brand new Los Angeles office.
Jules’s assignment: Locate a woman named Emily Johnson, the unexpected heir to a Hollywood producer’s massive fortune. The weird twist? The producer’s estranged son is the client who’s hired Jules and Sam to find this mysterious stranger who’ll inherit what should have been his—millions he claims he does not need or want.
Still, the investigation should be simple despite the lack of information about this woman with a very common name. But Jules knows that with Sam’s help, he’ll find her, even if they have to knock on the door of every Emily Johnson in the greater Los Angeles area.
Best of all? This easy case is danger-free.
But as the WTFs surrounding the investigation start piling up rapidly and haphazardly, it soon becomes clear to both Jules and Sam that someone’s gunning for their mysterious and hard-to-find Emily—and for them, as well.
In a novel that’s part mystery, part drama, part comedy and all heart, Brockmann’s long-awaited return to the Troubleshooters world also delivers the story of Jules Cassidy’s first-ever investigation as a seventeen-year-old high school student.
Shortly after his father’s untimely death, Jules and his mother move back to her rural Connecticut hometown, where Jules begins his senior year as the “new kid.” It’s not long before he is immersed in solving a crime—someone is attacking girls at weekend parties. With the help of a new group of friends, Jules is determined to catch and bring the violent perpetrator to justice.
But life doesn’t always go according to plan…
Troubleshooters series fan-favorite Jules Cassidy is back!
Starting over is never easy, but when Jules is forced out of the FBI, he has the help of his good friend, former Navy SEAL Sam Starrett, as he takes on his first case as head of the Troubleshooters personal security firm’s brand new Los Angeles office.
Jules’s assignment: Locate a woman named Emily Johnson, the unexpected heir to a Hollywood producer’s massive fortune. The weird twist? The producer’s estranged son is the client who’s hired Jules and Sam to find this mysterious stranger who’ll inherit what should have been his—millions he claims he does not need or want.
Still, the investigation should be simple despite the lack of information about this woman with a very common name. But Jules knows that with Sam’s help, he’ll find her, even if they have to knock on the door of every Emily Johnson in the greater Los Angeles area.
Best of all? This easy case is danger-free.
But as the WTFs surrounding the investigation start piling up rapidly and haphazardly, it soon becomes clear to both Jules and Sam that someone’s gunning for their mysterious and hard-to-find Emily—and for them, as well.
In a novel that’s part mystery, part drama, part comedy and all heart, Brockmann’s long-awaited return to the Troubleshooters world also delivers the story of Jules Cassidy’s first-ever investigation as a seventeen-year-old high school student.
Shortly after his father’s untimely death, Jules and his mother move back to her rural Connecticut hometown, where Jules begins his senior year as the “new kid.” It’s not long before he is immersed in solving a crime—someone is attacking girls at weekend parties. With the help of a new group of friends, Jules is determined to catch and bring the violent perpetrator to justice.
But life doesn’t always go according to plan…
546 pages, Paperback
First published January 29, 2026
113 people are currently reading
127 people want to read
About the author
Suzanne Brockmann
202 books3,591 followersAfter childhood plans to become the captain of a starship didn’t pan out, Suzanne Brockmann took her fascination with military history, her respect for the men and women who serve, her reverence for diversity, and her love of storytelling, and explored brave new worlds as a bestselling romance author.
Over the past thirty years she has written sixty-three novels, including her award-winning Troubleshooters series about Navy SEAL heroes and the women—and sometimes men—who win their hearts. Her personal favorite is the one where her most popular character, gay FBI agent Jules Cassidy, wins his happily-ever-after and marries the man of his dreams. Called All Through the Night, this mainstream romance novel with a hero and a hero hit the New York Times hardcover fiction bestseller list. In 2007, Suz donated all of her earnings from this book, in perpetuity, to MassEquality, to help win and preserve equal marriage rights in Massachusetts.
In addition to writing books, Suz writes and produces indie movies and TV including the award-winning romantic comedy The Perfect Wedding. Her recent feature, Out of Body, is streaming on Amazon Prime.
In 2018, Suz was given the Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award from the Romance Writers of America. Her latest projects are Blame It on Rio (Tall, Dark & Dangerous # 14), available in print and e-book from Suzanne Brockmann Books, and Marriage of Inconvenience, a six-episode LBGTQ rom-com TV series, streaming on Dekkoo in April 2023.
Over the past thirty years she has written sixty-three novels, including her award-winning Troubleshooters series about Navy SEAL heroes and the women—and sometimes men—who win their hearts. Her personal favorite is the one where her most popular character, gay FBI agent Jules Cassidy, wins his happily-ever-after and marries the man of his dreams. Called All Through the Night, this mainstream romance novel with a hero and a hero hit the New York Times hardcover fiction bestseller list. In 2007, Suz donated all of her earnings from this book, in perpetuity, to MassEquality, to help win and preserve equal marriage rights in Massachusetts.
In addition to writing books, Suz writes and produces indie movies and TV including the award-winning romantic comedy The Perfect Wedding. Her recent feature, Out of Body, is streaming on Amazon Prime.
In 2018, Suz was given the Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award from the Romance Writers of America. Her latest projects are Blame It on Rio (Tall, Dark & Dangerous # 14), available in print and e-book from Suzanne Brockmann Books, and Marriage of Inconvenience, a six-episode LBGTQ rom-com TV series, streaming on Dekkoo in April 2023.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
January 4, 2026
I truly enjoy Suzanne Brockmann's writing style. I loved getting back to Jules and Sam, and getting to see some of Jules' history to understand his drive and empathy. I'm super excited for this offshoot of the series and hope to see plenty more books with these amazing characters. Jay and others deserve their happily ever afters!
On another note, I'm glad to see Suzanne including snippets of the absolute shit show our current government has turned our country into right now. Even though this is fiction, it strongly echoes some of the devastating consequences that have rocked minorities, those in the LBTQIA+ communities and allies, and women more generally regarding reproductive rights. There are so many poor women who have gotten sepsis, died, or even the poor woman's family who was forced to let their mother and wife carry a baby she didn't even know about after she was clinically dead and on life support, because politicians are making health care decisions instead of doctors. We are seeing droves of seasoned employees being pushed out of offices and roles to be replaced by yes men and, scarier yet, people who should not be able to own a firearm because of their bigoted, hate filled rhetoric. We're losing the good employees, the Jules of the FBI and the Cosmo of the military, because they're being forced out or being told to do something reprehensible. We're losing the scientists and subject matter experts to mass firings, DEI bans, or incompetence. Now the president has kidnapped the president of a foreign nation because he wants Venezuela's oil. I get why Jules wouldn't want to bring a little Robin into the world right now.
Yet somehow these books always seem to make me have hope that things can get better. That even if Jules and Sam are fictional, there are good men and women like them pushing back on the hate and violence. I just hope things can get better... and not to where we were before Trump, but to a place where people don't hate each other because of their differences and can learn to embrace the things that make us unique and special. Trump is a cancer on society, yes, but he could only spread his hate if the seeds were already there... we need to do better. We need to follow the examples of Jules and Sam... learn from our mistakes and from our past, have empathy for others and what they're going through, continue to learn and grow instead of stagnating... and ultimately do the right thing for the right reason, not the easy thing, or only doing the right thing if someone is watching...
Sorry for going down a the rabbit trail in my review, but I'm just glad Suzanne is addressing these issues. She runs the gamut well of providing examples and commentary without preaching or being too political, which just may help educate those who aren't as aware of current policy issues and the consequences of decisions made by the current administration. Thanks Suzanne for using your voice and speaking out!
On another note, I'm glad to see Suzanne including snippets of the absolute shit show our current government has turned our country into right now. Even though this is fiction, it strongly echoes some of the devastating consequences that have rocked minorities, those in the LBTQIA+ communities and allies, and women more generally regarding reproductive rights. There are so many poor women who have gotten sepsis, died, or even the poor woman's family who was forced to let their mother and wife carry a baby she didn't even know about after she was clinically dead and on life support, because politicians are making health care decisions instead of doctors. We are seeing droves of seasoned employees being pushed out of offices and roles to be replaced by yes men and, scarier yet, people who should not be able to own a firearm because of their bigoted, hate filled rhetoric. We're losing the good employees, the Jules of the FBI and the Cosmo of the military, because they're being forced out or being told to do something reprehensible. We're losing the scientists and subject matter experts to mass firings, DEI bans, or incompetence. Now the president has kidnapped the president of a foreign nation because he wants Venezuela's oil. I get why Jules wouldn't want to bring a little Robin into the world right now.
Yet somehow these books always seem to make me have hope that things can get better. That even if Jules and Sam are fictional, there are good men and women like them pushing back on the hate and violence. I just hope things can get better... and not to where we were before Trump, but to a place where people don't hate each other because of their differences and can learn to embrace the things that make us unique and special. Trump is a cancer on society, yes, but he could only spread his hate if the seeds were already there... we need to do better. We need to follow the examples of Jules and Sam... learn from our mistakes and from our past, have empathy for others and what they're going through, continue to learn and grow instead of stagnating... and ultimately do the right thing for the right reason, not the easy thing, or only doing the right thing if someone is watching...
Sorry for going down a the rabbit trail in my review, but I'm just glad Suzanne is addressing these issues. She runs the gamut well of providing examples and commentary without preaching or being too political, which just may help educate those who aren't as aware of current policy issues and the consequences of decisions made by the current administration. Thanks Suzanne for using your voice and speaking out!
February 6, 2026
I enjoyed this very much! a simple case that isn't so simple! Loved the look at Jules in high school and his natural Protector starting to come out. Had times that I laughed out loud and times where I had tears in my eyes. Though this isn't like the rest of the Troubleshooters series, more mystery and much less romance, it's still a wonderful installment. I hope she continues to give us more of this. I can always go back and reread the previous books to get the romances of those featured! Hope Belle and Tom come visit Jules! And Hobbit needs his special someone... soon!
(if you're not familiar with the author's political views from her newsletters, you might be offended at her references to the state of the FBI and the horrors facing women, especially those who are pregnant. That's fine, go read something else...)
(if you're not familiar with the author's political views from her newsletters, you might be offended at her references to the state of the FBI and the horrors facing women, especially those who are pregnant. That's fine, go read something else...)
February 3, 2026
It's always a good time to check in with the Troubleshooters -- especially when yummy Sam Starrett and equally yummy Jules Cassidy are involved. I always want more when the last page comes. This adventure is no different. Great twists and turns and hilarious dialogue. It's good when the good guys win; even better when they bring others along to their way of thinking.
March 13, 2026
This new entry into the Troubleshooters series stars former FBI Agent Jules Cassidy. Because of changes in Presidential administrations, Jules has resigned from the FBI and joined Troubleshooters. He is tasked with setting up a Los Angeles office which works out well because his husband Robin has the offer to star in a new television series.
Jules and Robin are dealing with heartbreak because the surrogate who was supposed to have their baby had a late-term miscarriage in Texas and almost died before she could be transported to a more woman friendly state. However, although she lives, she can no longer have children. Jules and Robin are both grieving the loss of their child and their friend's loss too. Add that to Jules grieving the loss of a career he loved and you have an emotional episode.
Jules and Sam Starrett are setting up the office and hoping to ease into the investigation business. They accept what should be an easy case. Locate a lost heir for the estate of an old man who was a Hollywood producer. They are hired by the deceased's lawyer and estranged son to locate Emily Johnson. Unfortunately, both claim not to know who Emily is and Emily Johnson is a far too common name.
As they begin to investigate with Jules missing the FBI's ability to generate background information, they soon discover that there are more difficulties than finding a woman with a common name. Someone doesn't want them to succeed and is willing to use assault weapons.
This story is told from Jules' point of view, but it is also told from the point of view of the deceased's son who is keeping secrets of his own and who knows very well who Emily is and why he wants her to inherit the estate instead of himself.
The story also includes flashbacks to a younger Jules who has moved to a new town after his father's death and is trying to make a place for himself which isn't easy for an openly gay teen. He finds a friend group and also works with his friends to track down a rapist targeting young women.
This was an engaging story. I'm glad that it is the beginning of a new story arc since Jules, Robin and Sam are great characters.
Jules and Robin are dealing with heartbreak because the surrogate who was supposed to have their baby had a late-term miscarriage in Texas and almost died before she could be transported to a more woman friendly state. However, although she lives, she can no longer have children. Jules and Robin are both grieving the loss of their child and their friend's loss too. Add that to Jules grieving the loss of a career he loved and you have an emotional episode.
Jules and Sam Starrett are setting up the office and hoping to ease into the investigation business. They accept what should be an easy case. Locate a lost heir for the estate of an old man who was a Hollywood producer. They are hired by the deceased's lawyer and estranged son to locate Emily Johnson. Unfortunately, both claim not to know who Emily is and Emily Johnson is a far too common name.
As they begin to investigate with Jules missing the FBI's ability to generate background information, they soon discover that there are more difficulties than finding a woman with a common name. Someone doesn't want them to succeed and is willing to use assault weapons.
This story is told from Jules' point of view, but it is also told from the point of view of the deceased's son who is keeping secrets of his own and who knows very well who Emily is and why he wants her to inherit the estate instead of himself.
The story also includes flashbacks to a younger Jules who has moved to a new town after his father's death and is trying to make a place for himself which isn't easy for an openly gay teen. He finds a friend group and also works with his friends to track down a rapist targeting young women.
This was an engaging story. I'm glad that it is the beginning of a new story arc since Jules, Robin and Sam are great characters.
December 17, 2025
I very much enjoyed this book and can not wait for more.
March 15, 2026
Loved this novel! Suzanne Brockmann has delivered another excellent addition (#20) to her amazing Troubleshooters series. It was fascinating to learn about the 17-year old Jules and his first foray into investigative work. And seeing how old friends and beloved characters (Sam Starrett is one of my favourites) join forces to set up a new branch of Troubleshooters Inc. in Los Angeles starting with what seems to be a simple locating of the beneficiary of a Will. Lots of engaging twists and turns with the good guys winning out in the end. Kudos to the author for how she integrated the current political happenings in the USA and the impact on those who hold true to their empathic and strong morals and values.
February 25, 2026
It was nice to be back in this world! I will say at first I wasn't sure why there were so many flashbacks with Jules' past, it didn't make sense, even as I liked seeing him as a kid and finding his way in a new school. Quickly it became apparent why Jules ended up in the field he did and I loved that he still kept in touch with so many friends from back them.
The case that Sam and Jules worked on seemed so simple at first, yet quickly spun out of control. It didn't help that despite the guy that hired them having all the facts, he hid so much that could have helped and things quickly turned into a cluster.
It was nice to see how things were resolved and for the new start Jules will be having in LA.
The case that Sam and Jules worked on seemed so simple at first, yet quickly spun out of control. It didn't help that despite the guy that hired them having all the facts, he hid so much that could have helped and things quickly turned into a cluster.
It was nice to see how things were resolved and for the new start Jules will be having in LA.
February 23, 2026
I really liked this book, for the return of some favorite characters, the emphasis on mystery over romance, and the Young Jules sections. I am less a fan of the constant time-jumping paired with constant POV-switches. The Young Jules sections are the most compelling, both for plot and because they are all from Jules’ perspective. “Present Day” narrator is a toss-up. Not that I disliked any of the POV characters, I just had to take a couple of paragraphs to orient myself in any “Present Day” chapter. Also, because the reader gets to know what’s going on from multiple perspectives, it’s easier to solve the mystery.
I think fans of Jules Cassidy and the Troubleshooters series will all enjoy this one, and I am definitely looking forward to more like it!
I think fans of Jules Cassidy and the Troubleshooters series will all enjoy this one, and I am definitely looking forward to more like it!
February 11, 2026
Excellent Story
Firstly, I have not read this Series in order, in fact, only a couple. That being said, obviously it can be read as a standalone. I LOVE Jules, what a terrific character he is! Love the double ongoing stories, the flashback to seventeen year old Jules and crew and present day Jules and crew. Fantastic, done so very well! Excellent adventure, action, friendships and romance. Highly recommend!
Firstly, I have not read this Series in order, in fact, only a couple. That being said, obviously it can be read as a standalone. I LOVE Jules, what a terrific character he is! Love the double ongoing stories, the flashback to seventeen year old Jules and crew and present day Jules and crew. Fantastic, done so very well! Excellent adventure, action, friendships and romance. Highly recommend!
February 14, 2026
a great story
I love all of her stories. And this one has some twist and turns. Its a no bonus to read young
I love all of her stories. And this one has some twist and turns. Its a no bonus to read young
February 13, 2026
Loved it!
It was so awesome to have a new book to read in this series. Jules and Sam are two of my favourite characters. I've listened to the whole series on Audible a number of times and will buy this one too if it comes out. Great character development and a story well told.
It was so awesome to have a new book to read in this series. Jules and Sam are two of my favourite characters. I've listened to the whole series on Audible a number of times and will buy this one too if it comes out. Great character development and a story well told.
February 10, 2026
Oh, thank goodness! They're back!
I really liked this book, but then I'm a huge Troubleshooters fan.
Thank you, Suzanne, for bringing them back, for letting us know what happened to Jules in the Patel/Trump FBI and for opening (I hope) a whole new chapter with some of my favorite people.
I look forward to more. Soon? Pretty please?!?!😁
I really liked this book, but then I'm a huge Troubleshooters fan.
Thank you, Suzanne, for bringing them back, for letting us know what happened to Jules in the Patel/Trump FBI and for opening (I hope) a whole new chapter with some of my favorite people.
I look forward to more. Soon? Pretty please?!?!😁
March 7, 2026
Let me say this first: I needed this book. In the dark, dark ages of 2024-25, I needed a book that would remind me that there is still love and light in the world. I needed to read a new story with characters I fell in love with many years ago. That they are still around and also feeling the dark days that the current US administration has ushered in.
I needed Suz's love and laughter and storytelling and goodness. That's what this book is. It is a lifeline of hope and love.
If you're new to Suz Brockmann's Troubleshooter series, I recommend closing this book and starting at the beginning!
If you don't have time for that, you can also start in the middle, but you're going to want to read them all. If a gay FBI agent sounds appealing, you could start in the middle of the series with "Hot Target."
I'm going to start my second reading now. And maybe I'll read "Hot Target" a third time.
Also, the audiobooks for Suz's Troubleshooters are read by a fantastic reader, so also recommended if you like your books read to you.
I needed Suz's love and laughter and storytelling and goodness. That's what this book is. It is a lifeline of hope and love.
If you're new to Suz Brockmann's Troubleshooter series, I recommend closing this book and starting at the beginning!
If you don't have time for that, you can also start in the middle, but you're going to want to read them all. If a gay FBI agent sounds appealing, you could start in the middle of the series with "Hot Target."
I'm going to start my second reading now. And maybe I'll read "Hot Target" a third time.
Also, the audiobooks for Suz's Troubleshooters are read by a fantastic reader, so also recommended if you like your books read to you.
February 7, 2026
LOVE LOVE LOVE this book. It gives you a really good background on Jules as a High School student as well as where he is now. Can't wait to see what comes next.
February 3, 2026
Absolutely loved it!! I really hope this is the start of a new series for the Troubleshooter team!.
There was nothing about this book I disliked. These characters are so very amazing. Miles and Sam are two of my favorite characters e er in this series!! Ms. Brick man's storytelling is just so good. You get to be part of the character's lives!!
There was nothing about this book I disliked. These characters are so very amazing. Miles and Sam are two of my favorite characters e er in this series!! Ms. Brick man's storytelling is just so good. You get to be part of the character's lives!!
February 2, 2026
4.5 stars, but rounded up because it's Jules Cassidy! Including his teenage self! (Solving a nasty case of roofies, so content warning there.)
Also political content, as he's been squeezed out of the FBI due to politics. And he's depressed.
But he's opening an L.A. branch of Troubleshooters and taking his first case with his old friend Sam. It's on a smaller scale than defeating terrorists, but compelling.
Also political content, as he's been squeezed out of the FBI due to politics. And he's depressed.
But he's opening an L.A. branch of Troubleshooters and taking his first case with his old friend Sam. It's on a smaller scale than defeating terrorists, but compelling.
December 24, 2025
The long wait for Jules' book was worth the wait. This Brockman book is more mystery than romance but very entertaining. I could have done without the repeated commentary of over the last election, but it didn't stop me from loving the story.
December 29, 2025
I loved this book. Going back and forth between Jules' high school years and a crazy fun case was great insight into his character. The book was fun and exciting.
December 18, 2025
This book is definitely best opened after reading the rest of the Troubleshooters, or at least Hot Target, Force of Nature, and All Through the Night, that gave us Jules and his now-husband Robin. (And maybe read Gone Too Far, that gives us Sam, although it is M/F only - Suzanne Brockmann writes some of my favorite M/F romance.) Unlike the rest of this series, there is very low key romance here (although there is an M/F couple trying for their HEA.) This is mostly established MCs thriller mystery. Don't start with this one if you're new to Troubleshooters (but do check out Hot Target, if this series is unfamiliar to you. A multi-reread for me.)
The pleasure here is in reconnecting with Jules and Robin and Sam (and tangentially with other favorite folk like Cosmo.) We also get an ongoing thread of teen Jules, and while a little idealized, I enjoyed watching a young Jules Cassidy finding his feet and his people in high school, while already becoming a force for good. I liked Hobbit/Kevin a lot.
The mystery has a few twists, but the bad guy is pretty obvious from the start. The fun is in the details and how they get there. I liked that Jules and Sam screwed up a bit at first, and that Jules and Robin are dealing with a powerful emotional issue. I liked for once seeing Jules Cassidy entirely at a loss.
I also personally liked the fact that Jules has quit his beloved FBI because he cannot stomach what it is becoming under this administration. And that the situation was personally devastating for him - as it has been for many real life folks who believe in equality and science. The temptation to inform our stories with today's viciously anti-queer and anti-science politics is a strong one, and a challenge to authorial intensity and judgement. For me, at least, this was done at a very workable level in this book. Being sidelined prejudicially in today's declining FBI is a believable impetus to the change in career for Jules as a lifetime agent. (You have to accept a timeline jump, since we met Jules 20 years ago, but he and the rest have not aged 20 years. It was that, or writing books 15 years out of date. I'm good with this choice.)
I am looking forward to more of Jules and Sam working together. I hope that the reception for this story, and the writing muses, give Suzanne Brockmann inspiration for more Troubleshooters to come.
The pleasure here is in reconnecting with Jules and Robin and Sam (and tangentially with other favorite folk like Cosmo.) We also get an ongoing thread of teen Jules, and while a little idealized, I enjoyed watching a young Jules Cassidy finding his feet and his people in high school, while already becoming a force for good. I liked Hobbit/Kevin a lot.
The mystery has a few twists, but the bad guy is pretty obvious from the start. The fun is in the details and how they get there. I liked that Jules and Sam screwed up a bit at first, and that Jules and Robin are dealing with a powerful emotional issue. I liked for once seeing Jules Cassidy entirely at a loss.
I also personally liked the fact that Jules has quit his beloved FBI because he cannot stomach what it is becoming under this administration. And that the situation was personally devastating for him - as it has been for many real life folks who believe in equality and science. The temptation to inform our stories with today's viciously anti-queer and anti-science politics is a strong one, and a challenge to authorial intensity and judgement. For me, at least, this was done at a very workable level in this book. Being sidelined prejudicially in today's declining FBI is a believable impetus to the change in career for Jules as a lifetime agent. (You have to accept a timeline jump, since we met Jules 20 years ago, but he and the rest have not aged 20 years. It was that, or writing books 15 years out of date. I'm good with this choice.)
I am looking forward to more of Jules and Sam working together. I hope that the reception for this story, and the writing muses, give Suzanne Brockmann inspiration for more Troubleshooters to come.
March 18, 2026
**Jules Cassidy P.I.** by Suzanne Brockmann
*Troubleshooters Series #20* COMPELLING MYSTERY WITH HEART AND SOCIAL CONSCIENCE
★★★★★
In her latest Troubleshooters installment, Brockmann delivers another page-turner that kept me up well past midnight. Former FBI agent Jules Cassidy and ex-SEAL Sam Starrett return in top form as their LA-based PI firm takes on what appears to be a simple heir-finding case that spirals into a labyrinth of danger and deceit.
What begins as a straightforward "follow-the-money" investigation transforms into a pulse-pounding criminal mystery that had me gasping at every twist. The narrative alternates masterfully between present-day action and formative teenage experiences that shaped these characters' unwavering commitment to justice.
As always, Jules and Robin's marriage provides the emotional anchor amid chaos—I found myself genuinely anxious during Jules' more perilous moments. Brockmann's rapid-fire dialogue crackles with authenticity; these characters speak like real people, with all the messy interruptions, the natter/patter, phatic, banter and inside jokes that make them leap off the page.
The novel doesn't shy away from tackling bullying, sexual assault, and LGBTQ+ issues with nuance rather than preachiness. While the solutions presented may be idealistic, they're handled with the gravity these subjects deserve.
Newcomers could enjoy this as a standalone, but why deprive yourself? Start from the beginning and thank me later. For fans of character-driven suspense where justice ultimately prevails, this is a must-read.
*Troubleshooters Series #20* COMPELLING MYSTERY WITH HEART AND SOCIAL CONSCIENCE
★★★★★
In her latest Troubleshooters installment, Brockmann delivers another page-turner that kept me up well past midnight. Former FBI agent Jules Cassidy and ex-SEAL Sam Starrett return in top form as their LA-based PI firm takes on what appears to be a simple heir-finding case that spirals into a labyrinth of danger and deceit.
What begins as a straightforward "follow-the-money" investigation transforms into a pulse-pounding criminal mystery that had me gasping at every twist. The narrative alternates masterfully between present-day action and formative teenage experiences that shaped these characters' unwavering commitment to justice.
As always, Jules and Robin's marriage provides the emotional anchor amid chaos—I found myself genuinely anxious during Jules' more perilous moments. Brockmann's rapid-fire dialogue crackles with authenticity; these characters speak like real people, with all the messy interruptions, the natter/patter, phatic, banter and inside jokes that make them leap off the page.
The novel doesn't shy away from tackling bullying, sexual assault, and LGBTQ+ issues with nuance rather than preachiness. While the solutions presented may be idealistic, they're handled with the gravity these subjects deserve.
Newcomers could enjoy this as a standalone, but why deprive yourself? Start from the beginning and thank me later. For fans of character-driven suspense where justice ultimately prevails, this is a must-read.
March 13, 2026
I was so excited to see that Ms. Brockman started a campaign through Kickstarter for a new series starring my absolute favorite Jules Cassidy. I immediately signed up to get my book.
The FBI agent is back but is facing multiple challenges. He took several very personal hits that had left this unflappable man gutted. The whole story hinges around today's brutal reality. No way could he stay in the bureau with the current administration.
Ms. Brockman wrote with heartfelt realism, and I was surprised if some felt she was too political. This author has always proudly expressed her views, and she was writing about the current nightmare many are facing. I deeply admire her for her convictions.
We also get a healthy dose of Jule's husband, Robin. I was over the moon with their working together. Sam partners up with Jules to help him open a new LA Troubleshooters office. Sam is a larger than life Navy SEAL that has a crunchy exterior with a gooey marshmallow center.
The pacing was unique as the author wove together two long mysteries.We had a story from Jule's high school days and the present-day investigation. I loved that the flashbacks were created to give the reader insight into how Jules became the man he is rather than focusing on a past trauma. High school-aged Jules had his head together better than most adults.
I truly hope Jules snaps out of his distrust of the world to make his and Robin's dreams come true. More, please, Ms. Brockman, so much more!!!! Happy Reading.
The FBI agent is back but is facing multiple challenges. He took several very personal hits that had left this unflappable man gutted. The whole story hinges around today's brutal reality. No way could he stay in the bureau with the current administration.
Ms. Brockman wrote with heartfelt realism, and I was surprised if some felt she was too political. This author has always proudly expressed her views, and she was writing about the current nightmare many are facing. I deeply admire her for her convictions.
We also get a healthy dose of Jule's husband, Robin. I was over the moon with their working together. Sam partners up with Jules to help him open a new LA Troubleshooters office. Sam is a larger than life Navy SEAL that has a crunchy exterior with a gooey marshmallow center.
The pacing was unique as the author wove together two long mysteries.We had a story from Jule's high school days and the present-day investigation. I loved that the flashbacks were created to give the reader insight into how Jules became the man he is rather than focusing on a past trauma. High school-aged Jules had his head together better than most adults.
I truly hope Jules snaps out of his distrust of the world to make his and Robin's dreams come true. More, please, Ms. Brockman, so much more!!!! Happy Reading.
February 17, 2026
The author has gone the full indie route, even using Kickstarter as the vehicle for readers to buy this latest Troubleshooters book. This is not a romance per se, as all the couples but one are already together. But there is suspense, adventure, a bit of mystery, and yes, romance between the secondary characters. Jules is the main character and the parallel stories of his first case as a high school senior and his first case as a new Troubleshooter were entertaining and compelling. Yes, there is politics and since politics is the reason Jules is now a Troubleshooter instead of an FBI agent, the politics is relevant. Jules' husband is a doll and it's great to have characters from the previous titles in this series jump in.
Best of all, there is lighthearted humor. The author seems to borrow Evanovich's trope of wrecked cars in her Stephanie Plum series, but this is done very cleverly. The book is over 500 pages and I inhaled it in two nights then went back and read it again. The humor and the engrossing story rated this one of my rare four stars. I look forward to more in this series--and the continuing use of humor. We all need a good dose of that these days, that's for sure.
Best of all, there is lighthearted humor. The author seems to borrow Evanovich's trope of wrecked cars in her Stephanie Plum series, but this is done very cleverly. The book is over 500 pages and I inhaled it in two nights then went back and read it again. The humor and the engrossing story rated this one of my rare four stars. I look forward to more in this series--and the continuing use of humor. We all need a good dose of that these days, that's for sure.
December 23, 2025
It was so good to get back to Jules, Sam and Robin. Plus a few of the rest of the gang, even if it was just by phone! There is quite a bit of skulduggery going on in this book as a few bad characters try to take over what is not theirs. I really liked Emily and Mike or Milt!
I loved the early story about Jules in high school. That was unusual for me because I am not a fan of dual timelines. But we get to see Jules in this setting and how he developed into someone special. I liked how two of the people he knew at this time rode in to help save the situation towards the end.
Jules has left the FBI for obvious reasons in the political situation in the USA. I like how Suzanne Brockton weaves her take on all this and I am fully in agreement with her stance. Although well out of it here in my country. But I don't like despots. Just saying.
I look forward to reading the next book when it is published, I understand this will take time because of long Covid left overs. But I need a reread of the Troubleshooters anyway.
I loved the early story about Jules in high school. That was unusual for me because I am not a fan of dual timelines. But we get to see Jules in this setting and how he developed into someone special. I liked how two of the people he knew at this time rode in to help save the situation towards the end.
Jules has left the FBI for obvious reasons in the political situation in the USA. I like how Suzanne Brockton weaves her take on all this and I am fully in agreement with her stance. Although well out of it here in my country. But I don't like despots. Just saying.
I look forward to reading the next book when it is published, I understand this will take time because of long Covid left overs. But I need a reread of the Troubleshooters anyway.
February 6, 2026
I really enjoyed this series extension with Jules and Sam, two of my favorite characters. They're opening up a Troubleshooters Inc. office in LA and started with this first "easy" case before fully operational. This means we got to see several of the other Troubleshooters who helped fill in to assist them.
It was an interesting case, with a few twists and turns, potential danger for our heroes, and the awful LA traffic adding to the tension. Hmm, maybe they're going to need a Troubleshooters helicopter to help out. The guy who hired them ended up providing the romance in the book, and I will admit I actually appreciated the lack of all the explicit sex scenes in this one.
Brockmann's traditional flashback scenes show a young Jules at 17 solving his first case with the help of several classmates. I'm not usually into new adult fiction, but the story was entertaining enough and it provided some "aha!" moments later in the present day story. Along with potential heroes and romances for future books in the series. I look forward to reading them all.
It was an interesting case, with a few twists and turns, potential danger for our heroes, and the awful LA traffic adding to the tension. Hmm, maybe they're going to need a Troubleshooters helicopter to help out. The guy who hired them ended up providing the romance in the book, and I will admit I actually appreciated the lack of all the explicit sex scenes in this one.
Brockmann's traditional flashback scenes show a young Jules at 17 solving his first case with the help of several classmates. I'm not usually into new adult fiction, but the story was entertaining enough and it provided some "aha!" moments later in the present day story. Along with potential heroes and romances for future books in the series. I look forward to reading them all.
February 7, 2026
I really enjoy the Troubleshooters series and was glad to see a new book. The book focuses on Jules Cassidy after he leaves the FBI and is working to start a Troubleshooter branch in LA. He has his first case and is being assisted by Sam Starrett. What seems like a very simple case turns deadly. Primarily the book focuses on Jules, Sam and Jule's husband, Robin, but we do get to see other characters from previous books. The book follows the current case and goes back in time to when Jules was 17 and a senior in high school. That look back was wonderful in helping us better understand Jules. The current case was interesting and solved in a satisfying way. I am glad the author is planning to do more books with Troubleshooters LA branch and believe we will get to see other past characters join the crew. I would recommend this book.
December 18, 2025
I loved this installment of the Troubleshooters series. I wondered what would happen to Jules in this administration. The author handled it in what I thought was a realistic way. So looking forward to reading Sam and Jules setting up a new office. Can't wait to see which retiring Seal members join. High school Jules was fantastic and I hope we get to see more of him.
Suzanne Brockmann used Kickstarter to sell this book and Bookfunnel to deliver it. After paying for the book and confirming my email I didn't have to do anything except look in my library and there it was. Super easy.
Suzanne Brockmann used Kickstarter to sell this book and Bookfunnel to deliver it. After paying for the book and confirming my email I didn't have to do anything except look in my library and there it was. Super easy.
January 7, 2026
I didn’t realize how much I missed the Troubleshooters until I started reading this book. I love how this story focuses on Jules. It truly showcases how he became who he is, today, and his strong, deep relationship with Robin. It tells of Jules’s current personal struggles and how he learns that there are many people around him, old and new friends, that will always have his “six”. It also shows him how important Robin is to his life – I love these two! And that he is now working for Troubleshooters, in LA? Just perfect! Loved it!
February 25, 2026
DNF….im a huge Suzanne Brockmann fan. Read all her books and own several of them. I was super excited when I saw that she had a book just for Jules. However, I was quickly disappointed, because I realize that instead of giving Jules a story, she gave us her political opinions. I did not buy this book for political opinions. I bought it for entertainment and connection with the characters. If I wanted to read something about the current administration I would’ve bought a book based off of just that.
March 11, 2026
It has been a while since I read a Troubleshooter story
And this was a fun way to catch up. Maybe I need to fall back and read the last couple of books that I missed.
Sam was always my favorite. I have to go back and find out what he did to get forced off the Teams.
I like Jules, it is great that Robin is so very supportive. I enjoyed getting more of Jules' backstory.
I am looking forward to more Trouble shooters with Rob and Hobbit!!!
And this was a fun way to catch up. Maybe I need to fall back and read the last couple of books that I missed.
Sam was always my favorite. I have to go back and find out what he did to get forced off the Teams.
I like Jules, it is great that Robin is so very supportive. I enjoyed getting more of Jules' backstory.
I am looking forward to more Trouble shooters with Rob and Hobbit!!!
February 9, 2026
How fantastic having a new Jules and Robin Cassidy story ! These are two of my favorite characters. The book has two plot lines: Jules, as a high school senior with his new friends, trying to stop a rapist and Jules with Sam working a supposedly easy first case for Troubleshooters that rapidly becomes complicated.
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