Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Two of a Kind: The Beginning is the 4th Jax Diamond historical PI novella by Gail Meath. Released 11th Nov 2022, it's 100 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free. The other books in the series are also currently available on KU as part of the subscription.
This is an engaging and well written "origin story"/prequel for the rest of the series and introduces genius shepherd Ace as an adorable (but no less intelligent) stray puppy. It's holiday themed, and full of nostalgia and good humor. MC Jax is facing a lot of upheaval in his life and keeps encountering little Ace all alone on the mean streets of NYC. They team up and solve their first crimes together.
Although it's the 4th in the series in order of release, it's the first in terms of series chronology and as such, works great as an intro. It's a fast read, and worth picking up, especially as a KU selection. With 7 books extant, it would be a good choice for a long binge/buddy read.
The author is adept at adding small real historical details which add a lot of depth to the story. She includes some historical notes at the end of the book with links and info for further reading.
Four stars. Well written and charming.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Reviewed by annieb123 on
Reading updates
- 21 January, 2024: Started reading
- 21 January, 2024: Finished reading
- 21 January, 2024: Reviewed