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Jax Diamond Mysteries #4
Two of a Kind: The Beginning
The holiday hinges on a dicey game of chance.
Officer Jax Diamond doesn’t always play by the rules, and he’s in the hot seat again with the captain of his precinct. So, when a brazen little puppy alerts him of a crime, Jax is ordered to stand down or get canned.
On the city streets, broke and alone, Jax beats himself up for making the wrong decision. Even the little tramp who keeps trailing him everywhere can’t lift his spirits. But crime never stops in New York City and a string of deadly Christmas capers spirals out of control.
Hang on to your seat as Jax and his new pint-sized partner, Ace, team up to save the Christmas holidays during the Roaring Twenties, an era of fun and frolic, song and dance, speakeasies, gangsters, bootlegging, and bribes. - A Novella
Officer Jax Diamond doesn’t always play by the rules, and he’s in the hot seat again with the captain of his precinct. So, when a brazen little puppy alerts him of a crime, Jax is ordered to stand down or get canned.
On the city streets, broke and alone, Jax beats himself up for making the wrong decision. Even the little tramp who keeps trailing him everywhere can’t lift his spirits. But crime never stops in New York City and a string of deadly Christmas capers spirals out of control.
Hang on to your seat as Jax and his new pint-sized partner, Ace, team up to save the Christmas holidays during the Roaring Twenties, an era of fun and frolic, song and dance, speakeasies, gangsters, bootlegging, and bribes. - A Novella
90 pages, ebook
Published December 17, 2022
109 people are currently reading
124 people want to read
About the author
Gail Meath
21 books296 followersGail Meath is the author of the multi-award-winning Jax Diamond Mysteries, a fun 1920s series about wise-cracking PI Jax Diamond, his courageous German Shepherd partner, Ace, and Broadway star Laura Graystone, as they, along with a crazy group of friends, solve some of the toughest crimes in New York City. She is alternating that series with her new 1930s Golden Age of Hollywood mysteries series, Stone & Steele, starring Vivian Steele, a widow seeking justice, and Preston Stone, a playboy vigilante. As always, she blends the most lovable characters with a good, solid mystery.
Gail also has a list of other award-winning historical romances, westerns, and fictional biographies of true heroines. She lives in a small village in Upstate New York with her husband and their sweet Boston Terrier, and she spends loads of time with her grandchildren. Connect with Gail at www.gailmeath.com or Facebook @GailMeathAuthor.
Gail also has a list of other award-winning historical romances, westerns, and fictional biographies of true heroines. She lives in a small village in Upstate New York with her husband and their sweet Boston Terrier, and she spends loads of time with her grandchildren. Connect with Gail at www.gailmeath.com or Facebook @GailMeathAuthor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
November 12, 2022
I love a good prequel, and this is a great one as we learn how Detective Jax Diamond met his sidekick, the wily German Shepherd, Ace.
The action starts right away, as Jax happens to meet an unforgettable puppy and then goes through a heartbreaking situation that will change his life. Christmas in New York City in the early 1920s is on full display, and I was completely transported there. The department stores at that time are well described and the Christmas decorations and events are just so fun to read about. I enjoyed all the characters, but Puppy Ace steals the show, and he strutted right into my heart. The plot is full of clever twists and surprises. We visit famous department stores, investigate missing toys, and even get some cooking lessons! New hints are dropped about Jax’s background, which will be explored further in Book 5, coming out in 2023.
I pretty much demand that historical Christmas books deliver big on the “Christmas” and this one went over and above. I highly recommend it as both a great cozy and a Christmas read. Even though this is Book 4, it can be read first because it’s a prequel. This little novella is so fun I’m ready to read it again. You won’t be disappointed with this novella, or any book in the amazing Jax Diamond cozy mystery series.
I received a free copy of this book, but also purchased a copy. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
The action starts right away, as Jax happens to meet an unforgettable puppy and then goes through a heartbreaking situation that will change his life. Christmas in New York City in the early 1920s is on full display, and I was completely transported there. The department stores at that time are well described and the Christmas decorations and events are just so fun to read about. I enjoyed all the characters, but Puppy Ace steals the show, and he strutted right into my heart. The plot is full of clever twists and surprises. We visit famous department stores, investigate missing toys, and even get some cooking lessons! New hints are dropped about Jax’s background, which will be explored further in Book 5, coming out in 2023.
I pretty much demand that historical Christmas books deliver big on the “Christmas” and this one went over and above. I highly recommend it as both a great cozy and a Christmas read. Even though this is Book 4, it can be read first because it’s a prequel. This little novella is so fun I’m ready to read it again. You won’t be disappointed with this novella, or any book in the amazing Jax Diamond cozy mystery series.
I received a free copy of this book, but also purchased a copy. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
December 8, 2022
It’s 1921 and we’re back patrolling the streets of New York City with our lovable detective, Jax and his best friend Murphy. It’s only 2 weeks before Christmas and on the Lower East Side in Manhattan, it is cold! It’s while sitting in the patrol car waiting for Murphy that Jax first lays eyes on one small furball, probably no more than two or three months old. The two cross paths several more times before Jax finally realizes the puppy doesn’t have a home.
So begins the fourth book, “Two of a Kind”, that will explain the amazing partnership that Jax and the recently acquired German Shepherd, Ace, will share through the rest of author Gail Meath’s “Jax Diamond Mysteries Series”.
The way that Ms. Meath weaves Ace into Jax’s detective investigation is wonderful. The development of these characters continues to be excellent and the antics of puppy Ace had this reviewer tempted to go get her own lapful of cuddly happiness. Fortunately for me the APL was closed plus I am already owned by four of the sweetest fur kids anyone could ask for.
If you have read any of the other books, and enjoyed them, you won’t be disappointed with this new addition to the growing family of Jax Diamond cozy historical mysteries. Actually, I think you’ll enjoy “Two of a Kind” even if you haven’t read the others!
So go pick up some puppy love for yourself and settle in for another delightful episode featuring that crime busting duo, Jax and Ace!
So begins the fourth book, “Two of a Kind”, that will explain the amazing partnership that Jax and the recently acquired German Shepherd, Ace, will share through the rest of author Gail Meath’s “Jax Diamond Mysteries Series”.
The way that Ms. Meath weaves Ace into Jax’s detective investigation is wonderful. The development of these characters continues to be excellent and the antics of puppy Ace had this reviewer tempted to go get her own lapful of cuddly happiness. Fortunately for me the APL was closed plus I am already owned by four of the sweetest fur kids anyone could ask for.
If you have read any of the other books, and enjoyed them, you won’t be disappointed with this new addition to the growing family of Jax Diamond cozy historical mysteries. Actually, I think you’ll enjoy “Two of a Kind” even if you haven’t read the others!
So go pick up some puppy love for yourself and settle in for another delightful episode featuring that crime busting duo, Jax and Ace!
November 12, 2022
This is one of my favorite series and I love all the characters so I really enjoyed this exceptional story about how Jax and Ace met. This is really a wonderful Christmas story with Jax and Ace getting the best present ever, finding each other. And I can't say enough about the wonderful cover and the great pictures at the start of each chapter. Lots of great information about the department stores in NYC in the time period. Had me so interested so I wound up reading up on the stores and various real people mentioned in the book. As with all of Gail Meath's books, I was totally hooked and I'm really looking forward to the continuation of their adventures.
December 9, 2022
Reviewed by Luwi Nyakansaila for Readers’ Favorite
Jax Diamond and Ace are the best crime-solving duo in New York this Christmas. I love a good crime mystery; it keeps me on the edge of my seat, and I fell in love with Two Of A Kind with every plot twist. Jax is such an iconic character. Gail Meath did a splendid job of creating a relatable yet intriguing character. He is determined and will stop at nothing until he catches the criminals, although his origins are still unknown. Ace is the cutest puppy ever, and very loyal to Jax. I also loved the cover of this book because it is unique. I recommend this book to all crime mystery lovers.
Jax Diamond and Ace are the best crime-solving duo in New York this Christmas. I love a good crime mystery; it keeps me on the edge of my seat, and I fell in love with Two Of A Kind with every plot twist. Jax is such an iconic character. Gail Meath did a splendid job of creating a relatable yet intriguing character. He is determined and will stop at nothing until he catches the criminals, although his origins are still unknown. Ace is the cutest puppy ever, and very loyal to Jax. I also loved the cover of this book because it is unique. I recommend this book to all crime mystery lovers.
November 30, 2022
I have really enjoyed 3 books in this series about Jax the detective. This is a prequel of those 3 books. It tells the story of how Jax resigned from the police force and how he came to acquire ACE as a pet puppy. This is the start of the Jax and his now sidekick the dog (in this story puppy) and how they start their Private Detective agency.
The story is a great throw back. It can also be read as a standalone book.
Once again Gail Meath has illustrated the book with wonderful period images that really evoke that 1920s era in New York and the prohibition.
I really recommend this series and of course this prequel is a very pleasant read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story is a great throw back. It can also be read as a standalone book.
Once again Gail Meath has illustrated the book with wonderful period images that really evoke that 1920s era in New York and the prohibition.
I really recommend this series and of course this prequel is a very pleasant read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 1, 2022
A well written introduction to the Jax Diamond series, with Jax finding Ace as a puppy left out on the street.
The action starts with a bank robbery, and Jax resigning from the Police Department.
Left to his own devices, he signs up for a cookery course, but is diverted by a number of burglaries in the run up to Christmas, which target big Department stores and empty them of toys and games.
Jax, along with his friend Tim, who is a Police Officer, and Ace, who proves his worth even at a young age, sets out to solve the mystery of the Toy Heists, and uncovers an even more dastardly plot.
Great plot, and fantastic characters. I’m looking forward to the next release in the series.
The action starts with a bank robbery, and Jax resigning from the Police Department.
Left to his own devices, he signs up for a cookery course, but is diverted by a number of burglaries in the run up to Christmas, which target big Department stores and empty them of toys and games.
Jax, along with his friend Tim, who is a Police Officer, and Ace, who proves his worth even at a young age, sets out to solve the mystery of the Toy Heists, and uncovers an even more dastardly plot.
Great plot, and fantastic characters. I’m looking forward to the next release in the series.
October 20, 2023
Good Detective, Great Dog!
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. Not sure if you said what the year was, but if it takes place in 2000 f rather than 1950s then the money is way off, and the rewards should have been MUCH more since $1K is easily made in less than a week nowadays.
However, this is a great storyline with lovable characters. I look forward to more adventures with Jax and Ace.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. Not sure if you said what the year was, but if it takes place in 2000 f rather than 1950s then the money is way off, and the rewards should have been MUCH more since $1K is easily made in less than a week nowadays.
However, this is a great storyline with lovable characters. I look forward to more adventures with Jax and Ace.
February 4, 2024
I cannot resist a book with a dog or a cat on the cover and this puppy is lovely. I also discovered a good new to me cozy mystery series that I enjoyed
Well plotted, likeable characters, solid mystery.
Can't wait to read other books in this series
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Well plotted, likeable characters, solid mystery.
Can't wait to read other books in this series
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
October 1, 2023
SWEET PUP!
What a great story to tell us how Jax met and named Ace! They truly were meant for each other. Ace is a "genius" puppy who seems to understand everything said to him without having to repeat it. He was invaluable helping/rescuing Jax from the criminals.
Well written characters and storyline.
What a great story to tell us how Jax met and named Ace! They truly were meant for each other. Ace is a "genius" puppy who seems to understand everything said to him without having to repeat it. He was invaluable helping/rescuing Jax from the criminals.
Well written characters and storyline.
March 8, 2023
Rating: 3.5/5.0
When Jax and his longtime partner, Tim Murphy, begin the story with a simple lunch run that turns ominous.
Read full review in the 2023 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
When Jax and his longtime partner, Tim Murphy, begin the story with a simple lunch run that turns ominous.
Read full review in the 2023 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
June 14, 2023
1920s Noir At Its Best!
by Barbara Kelley
"Two of a Kind: The Beginning" is Book 4 of the Jax Diamond Mystery series, written by Gail Meath. This book has it all: 2 robberies, an unhappy police detective, beautiful dames, and just the cutest puppy ever! This book is about Police Officer Jax Diamond who quits his job after a tragic event happens during a bank robbery. He feels one of the deaths could have been prevented if the police hadn't gone gung ho into the bank, guns blazing. What will he do now that he has no job? Will he get a job with another police department? Will he become a Private Investigator? There's even talk about taking French cooking classes. Will he become a French Chef Detective? Then there is the cute little puppy that keeps following him around. He first saw the puppy at the scene of the bank robbery tragedy. Will he adopt the puppy, or find it a good home? Then, there is the mystery behind a high-end department robbery, and the fact that with all the extremely expensive merchandise in the store, the only thing stolen were all the toys, the one group if items that the store's insurance didn't cover. Who would steal all those toys and why were they stolen? This is an excellent book written in the style of early 1920s noir. I gave this book a 5 star rating and recommend it to everyone who likes a good mystery.
I received a copy via booksirens, and this is my voluntary and honest review.
by Barbara Kelley
"Two of a Kind: The Beginning" is Book 4 of the Jax Diamond Mystery series, written by Gail Meath. This book has it all: 2 robberies, an unhappy police detective, beautiful dames, and just the cutest puppy ever! This book is about Police Officer Jax Diamond who quits his job after a tragic event happens during a bank robbery. He feels one of the deaths could have been prevented if the police hadn't gone gung ho into the bank, guns blazing. What will he do now that he has no job? Will he get a job with another police department? Will he become a Private Investigator? There's even talk about taking French cooking classes. Will he become a French Chef Detective? Then there is the cute little puppy that keeps following him around. He first saw the puppy at the scene of the bank robbery tragedy. Will he adopt the puppy, or find it a good home? Then, there is the mystery behind a high-end department robbery, and the fact that with all the extremely expensive merchandise in the store, the only thing stolen were all the toys, the one group if items that the store's insurance didn't cover. Who would steal all those toys and why were they stolen? This is an excellent book written in the style of early 1920s noir. I gave this book a 5 star rating and recommend it to everyone who likes a good mystery.
I received a copy via booksirens, and this is my voluntary and honest review.
February 20, 2024
Jax is a great cop with good instincts. When thwarting a robbery doesn't go the way he planned, Jax needs to find a new path with the help of a lovable little German Shepherd pup named Ace. This mystery is a unique one which was one of the things I liked best about the story itself.
I really like that the author seemed to do her research on the time period and tried to make it as consistent as possible in the details.
I love dogs and have always had shepherds so that is what drew me to this one initially. It is a quick and captivating read set in the 1920's and I loved the action and the camaraderie between Jax and Tim. I'm so glad that I found it because it is a really good read.
You can't help but fall in love with Ace and all of the characters are very likable. I love the time period the author chose as well. I am really looking forward to reading the other books in the series as this was very well written and a captivating mystery.
If you are a big dog lover like I am, you will love this book and the way Ace is such a big part of the story and how smart and confident he is. He has a big personality for such a little dog and he clearly will make an amazing adult shepherd partner when he grows up!
This book is part of a series and is actually a prequel to the rest of the series even though it is the 4th installment. I actually like that I read this one first so that I can go back and read the rest in linear fashion. This book can also stand alone.
I really like that the author seemed to do her research on the time period and tried to make it as consistent as possible in the details.
I love dogs and have always had shepherds so that is what drew me to this one initially. It is a quick and captivating read set in the 1920's and I loved the action and the camaraderie between Jax and Tim. I'm so glad that I found it because it is a really good read.
You can't help but fall in love with Ace and all of the characters are very likable. I love the time period the author chose as well. I am really looking forward to reading the other books in the series as this was very well written and a captivating mystery.
If you are a big dog lover like I am, you will love this book and the way Ace is such a big part of the story and how smart and confident he is. He has a big personality for such a little dog and he clearly will make an amazing adult shepherd partner when he grows up!
This book is part of a series and is actually a prequel to the rest of the series even though it is the 4th installment. I actually like that I read this one first so that I can go back and read the rest in linear fashion. This book can also stand alone.
May 20, 2024
Read my full review on Rosepoint Publishing.
I love it when a historical novel captures not only the atmosphere but the vernacular of the period—in this case, the roaring twenties. Even though it is Book 4 of the series, this novella is issued as a prequel to establish the introduction of the puppy Ace as the canine partner of Jax.
So, yes, I was drawn in by the dog on the cover. It doesn’t take long to be there in the midst of the action though, which begins almost immediately.
A German Shepherd, Ace, will have your heart quickly. Jax is clever, caring, relatable, and multi-talented. He and Ace make an effective PI team.
There are skillful twists and turns and the Christmas season permeates throughout with the well-plotted narrative focusing on the seasonal criminal activities. Fast and easy to read.
I previously read Book 1 of the series, Songbird, and was taken with the description of the period and the characters. Definitely an engaging series and nice that each can be read as a standalone.
I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author and publisher through @NetGalley that in no way influenced this review. These are my honest thoughts.
I love it when a historical novel captures not only the atmosphere but the vernacular of the period—in this case, the roaring twenties. Even though it is Book 4 of the series, this novella is issued as a prequel to establish the introduction of the puppy Ace as the canine partner of Jax.
So, yes, I was drawn in by the dog on the cover. It doesn’t take long to be there in the midst of the action though, which begins almost immediately.
A German Shepherd, Ace, will have your heart quickly. Jax is clever, caring, relatable, and multi-talented. He and Ace make an effective PI team.
There are skillful twists and turns and the Christmas season permeates throughout with the well-plotted narrative focusing on the seasonal criminal activities. Fast and easy to read.
I previously read Book 1 of the series, Songbird, and was taken with the description of the period and the characters. Definitely an engaging series and nice that each can be read as a standalone.
I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author and publisher through @NetGalley that in no way influenced this review. These are my honest thoughts.
November 21, 2022
While Jax whaits for Tim to get them sandwiches he hears a little puppy yelping at the corner this draws his attention to a man who tries but fails to enter the bank and his alarm is alerted. When he goes over to look inside the bank he sees a mother with her young boy would they help me plea on her face. But it’s when he sees the gunman that he wants to take immediate action. When he runs to the back of the bank he can’t find a way in but he sees the little tan and black puppy standing by a window this is how Jax’s meets Ace this is also the straw that broke the camo‘s back if the straw is how his department handled the bank robbery and why he quit the police department but true to Gail Meaths books that is by no means the end of the book. Even though this is a prequel to the series we also see them solve their first Crime. Jack’s takes a cooking class and someone is stealing toys from the big department stores. We also get to see people well-known to Jack’s world. I really enjoyed this prequel and as always I am so glad I got to read this book. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves to read about Jax and Ace. Please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
December 21, 2022
This cosy mystery is a treat for dog fans, like me!
Ace, an adorable, German Shepherd puppy, is Jax Diamond’s perfect partner, as they try to solve a baffling series of crimes in the run up to Christmas. Both are great characters, drawing on their personal strengths to figure out what is going on, and keep out of danger.
Ace is new to the job, his canine capabilities still in the developmental stage, but Jax Diamond is a seasoned law enforcement officer. I really engaged with Jax, admired his investigative perception, found it amusing, how he tried to avoid the overtures of the glamorous, seductive, Ninette. There is a touching moment when the reader hears why Jax was given his particular name. In just a couple of sentences, his childhood, his entire life circumstances are laid bare.
This prequel was an interesting mystery; the reveal at the end took me by surprise. I will be adding the first book in the series to my to-read list, looking forward to more crime solving team work by Jax and Ace.
Ace, an adorable, German Shepherd puppy, is Jax Diamond’s perfect partner, as they try to solve a baffling series of crimes in the run up to Christmas. Both are great characters, drawing on their personal strengths to figure out what is going on, and keep out of danger.
Ace is new to the job, his canine capabilities still in the developmental stage, but Jax Diamond is a seasoned law enforcement officer. I really engaged with Jax, admired his investigative perception, found it amusing, how he tried to avoid the overtures of the glamorous, seductive, Ninette. There is a touching moment when the reader hears why Jax was given his particular name. In just a couple of sentences, his childhood, his entire life circumstances are laid bare.
This prequel was an interesting mystery; the reveal at the end took me by surprise. I will be adding the first book in the series to my to-read list, looking forward to more crime solving team work by Jax and Ace.
December 3, 2023
Thank you to Book Sirens, the author and publisher for a copy of this book for free. This is my honest voluntary review.
I wasn't sure when I started this book that I would care for it as I'm not a big fan of historical mysteries, but I've changed my mind. This book was incredible. I really felt for the main character Jax as he always tried to do what he thought was the right thing. It didn't always work out and when he ends up with a dog as his new sidekick, it's the sweetest relationship.
The dog (Ace) really adds to the book in a good way and isn't just there to have a dog in the book. He's smart and resourceful and just the type of pet (or partner) that Jax needs.
I felt so connected to them and to their friends Max and Carla. It really made the book feel cozy to have such interesting characters and I can't wait now to read the next book in the series.
The plot was interesting and I was in the dark the whole time about who was stealing toys at Christmas. Great book and I can't wait to see what else the author has available.
I wasn't sure when I started this book that I would care for it as I'm not a big fan of historical mysteries, but I've changed my mind. This book was incredible. I really felt for the main character Jax as he always tried to do what he thought was the right thing. It didn't always work out and when he ends up with a dog as his new sidekick, it's the sweetest relationship.
The dog (Ace) really adds to the book in a good way and isn't just there to have a dog in the book. He's smart and resourceful and just the type of pet (or partner) that Jax needs.
I felt so connected to them and to their friends Max and Carla. It really made the book feel cozy to have such interesting characters and I can't wait now to read the next book in the series.
The plot was interesting and I was in the dark the whole time about who was stealing toys at Christmas. Great book and I can't wait to see what else the author has available.
November 26, 2022
An enjoyable read, featuring Jax Diamond and his new sidekick, Ace. Jax resigns as a police officer when a robbery he came across goes wrong after a senior officer takes over. He is drawn into trying to solve a series of burglaries where thousands of toys have been stolen just before Christmas with the help of his ex partner, and his new one..
Jax is a confident character, and when Ace comes into his life, things start to get more interesting. A nicely paced novella, an easy read with some really good characters, a good plot and it definitely leaves you wanting to know what the pair do next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Jax is a confident character, and when Ace comes into his life, things start to get more interesting. A nicely paced novella, an easy read with some really good characters, a good plot and it definitely leaves you wanting to know what the pair do next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 30, 2022
This novella is a delight. The story is well written and heartwarming, with plenty of suspense, surprises and laughter. The chapters are beautifully illustrated (my favourite is the adorable Ace at chapter 3). Cozy mystery readers, fans of Christmas stories and lovers of cute puppies will adore this book.
Highly recommended!
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
Highly recommended!
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
April 3, 2024
Though listed as #4 in the series, this novella is a prequel. Lucky for me because you know how I love to read series in order! Jax is a beat cop in 1920s New York when he finds himself a little precocious side kick with four paws. A short story, this is a meet-cute between Jax and Ace before their partnership in the series. Sure there is a crime and sure our duo solves the mystery, but the antics of the two of them getting to know each other overshadows all that. I look forward to diving into the rest of the series!
Thanks to BooksGoSocial for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
Thanks to BooksGoSocial for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
November 30, 2022
This is a prequel to the series about how Jax and his dog Ace met. It’s an enjoyable series and I really enjoyed finding out how Jax and Ace met and got started as a detective duo! It’s a novella and a quick and fun read to see how they help solve a string of out-of-control Christmas shenanigans that get deadly! I received a free copy of this book from the author through BookSirens, and I write this review voluntarily.
November 23, 2022
Thanks Gail for giving us the beginning and introducing us to puppy Ace! I love the character of Jax and the detective scene in the 1920’s. Jax has the smartest partner around! Nice short Christmas story!
I was given the opportunity to read an advance copy in return for an honest review.
I was given the opportunity to read an advance copy in return for an honest review.
December 9, 2022
This was a good read
The author kept my interest in this detective story. it has all the elements needed with all the twists
. Strong friendship,love of family and real to life scenarios. Sad and good. The added plus was Ace. Absolutely made the story even better.
The author kept my interest in this detective story. it has all the elements needed with all the twists
. Strong friendship,love of family and real to life scenarios. Sad and good. The added plus was Ace. Absolutely made the story even better.
September 2, 2023
Great Read!!!
I loved the whole novel especially Ace!! It is truly wonderful to have a working partner like Tim to have you back and believe in you!!Had is not too jaded that he has forgotten the Christmas spirit. This is the perfect start to a fantastic series!!
I loved the whole novel especially Ace!! It is truly wonderful to have a working partner like Tim to have you back and believe in you!!Had is not too jaded that he has forgotten the Christmas spirit. This is the perfect start to a fantastic series!!
December 11, 2022
Cute story
This book is for lovers of historical novels. The dog was the best part of the story. He truly is mans best friend. Loved every minute of this book.
This book is for lovers of historical novels. The dog was the best part of the story. He truly is mans best friend. Loved every minute of this book.
December 20, 2022
This wee story tells us of how jax and Ace met became a team and stopped crime in its step Ace is an amazing dog even from a tiny pup I laughed at what jax did to the butcher and smiled and smiled as the bound between them formed and good old Tim naming him it was good to hear the story of why Jax left the police force and it was sad what happened and as always it was another great wee read.
I love how Gail takes you back in time you see the buildings and the clothes even though she dosnt go into those details she has taken you on such a journey with the rest that your mind really has filled it in you imagine the cars the stores the trams the ice boxes.
I can not rave about these wee reads enough maybe because there from a era I enjoy I don't know but they always leave me with a warm fuzzy feeling and an excitment to read the next almost thinking Jax and Ace are out there saving the day..
Roll on the next adventure I am eagerly awaiting my next story ..
I love how Gail takes you back in time you see the buildings and the clothes even though she dosnt go into those details she has taken you on such a journey with the rest that your mind really has filled it in you imagine the cars the stores the trams the ice boxes.
I can not rave about these wee reads enough maybe because there from a era I enjoy I don't know but they always leave me with a warm fuzzy feeling and an excitment to read the next almost thinking Jax and Ace are out there saving the day..
Roll on the next adventure I am eagerly awaiting my next story ..
March 15, 2024
Another gem!
There's been a bit of down time between my last Jax Diamond book and this one and i almost forgot just how much i love the books! The author does a brilliant job of capturing the time period and bringing it alive, giving you a true noir feel, without making it "hokey".
Book 4, is the genesis of how Jax went from cop to private detective and how Ace entered his life. It's a great story. I really believe my favorite to this point. The relationship being built between Jax and Ace is very heartwarming and the connection, that they are both cast-offs, gives that bond even greater depth.
I also appreciate the author's dedication to historical accuracy. It adds so much to the authentic feel of the books. The little tidbits she added to the end notes included extra historical facts and just some really fun things that rounded out an already great read.
Can't wait to read the next adventure for Jax and Ace!
There's been a bit of down time between my last Jax Diamond book and this one and i almost forgot just how much i love the books! The author does a brilliant job of capturing the time period and bringing it alive, giving you a true noir feel, without making it "hokey".
Book 4, is the genesis of how Jax went from cop to private detective and how Ace entered his life. It's a great story. I really believe my favorite to this point. The relationship being built between Jax and Ace is very heartwarming and the connection, that they are both cast-offs, gives that bond even greater depth.
I also appreciate the author's dedication to historical accuracy. It adds so much to the authentic feel of the books. The little tidbits she added to the end notes included extra historical facts and just some really fun things that rounded out an already great read.
Can't wait to read the next adventure for Jax and Ace!
December 5, 2022
From the cute little fella on the cover, we learn the beginnings of a true friendship between Officer Jax Diamond and Ace. I found myself rooting the good guys along all the way. I loved the playful and humorous banter between Murph and Jax as they try to solve a mystery that just keeps getting more mysterious as the days go by. Who's stealing all the toys from the area department stores? And why?? Many clues, a few suspects, and plenty of twists and turns (will the REAL Santa Claus please stand up!) keep the reader on their toes. Add to it the Roaring 20's, gangsters, bootlegging, and bribes, and it's a true delightful and fun read. I highly recommend Two of a Kind as well as the entire Jax Diamond series for a fun romp! I received a complimentary ARC of this book and have voluntarily given my honest opinion in this review.
March 14, 2024
A surprisingly great book. An interesting story and some fun, too. Of course the plot is not funny, but a little dog named Ace sure added some spice. Such a smart dog...and lovable, too.
The main character named Jax quits the police force because he feels responsible for letting down a mother being held hostage in a bank. Of course it wasn't his fault, but he is haunted about what happened. Thankfully he is still around when his friend and partner, Tim Murphy, needs his help. Their relationship and friendly banter keep the story somewhat lighthearted even when things get dangerous.
And don't forger Ace! He saves the day more than once. What a charming tale and a very quick read. I enjoyed the book immensely!
The main character named Jax quits the police force because he feels responsible for letting down a mother being held hostage in a bank. Of course it wasn't his fault, but he is haunted about what happened. Thankfully he is still around when his friend and partner, Tim Murphy, needs his help. Their relationship and friendly banter keep the story somewhat lighthearted even when things get dangerous.
And don't forger Ace! He saves the day more than once. What a charming tale and a very quick read. I enjoyed the book immensely!
June 21, 2025
Two of a Kind is superb! There’s nothing like an excellent prequel and Two of a Kind fits the bill. It provides such insight into Jax’s past, and Ace’s too. Like its predecessors, this story does a wonderful job of capturing the individuality of the characters. The main focus of this book is on how Jax and Ace met, but there’s also character development for Murph and Carla, along with more insight into the members of the police force.
I think it’s safe to say you will love Jax and Ace even more after you finish this story. Like the other books in the series, this book is well developed, it doesn’t teeter between story lines, nor does it bounce aimlessly. It’s incredibly thought provoking and everything included in the story is pertinent to the plot.
I highly recommend this series. If you love cozy mysteries, then you’ll LOVE this!
Happy reading! 📖
I think it’s safe to say you will love Jax and Ace even more after you finish this story. Like the other books in the series, this book is well developed, it doesn’t teeter between story lines, nor does it bounce aimlessly. It’s incredibly thought provoking and everything included in the story is pertinent to the plot.
I highly recommend this series. If you love cozy mysteries, then you’ll LOVE this!
Happy reading! 📖
December 6, 2022
I'm already a huge fan of this series, but this goes back to the beginning and shows how Jax and Ace became a team, and eek, so so cute.
Its set near Christmas, and a failed bank robbery sees Jax make the decision that will decide the rest of his life.
It's also where he comes across Ace who has decided Jax will be his human.
When someone starts robbing all the toy departments in the biggest stores in the city, Jax can't help but get involved.
Thus is only a novella, but certainly packs a lot in. It's a great little Christmas read too, if you want something a bit different from the gushy rom comes.
A great whodunit with wonderful characters and a cute puppy. What's not to love.
Its set near Christmas, and a failed bank robbery sees Jax make the decision that will decide the rest of his life.
It's also where he comes across Ace who has decided Jax will be his human.
When someone starts robbing all the toy departments in the biggest stores in the city, Jax can't help but get involved.
Thus is only a novella, but certainly packs a lot in. It's a great little Christmas read too, if you want something a bit different from the gushy rom comes.
A great whodunit with wonderful characters and a cute puppy. What's not to love.
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