It Takes Two to Strangle is the 1st book in the Dabbling Detective mystery series by Stephen Kaminski.
Former pro baseball player Damon Lassard has just moved to a small town near Arlington, Virginia called Hollydale to be near his single mom. Damon’s baseball career has left him financially secure, so he stays busy with various activities, such as volunteering at the library, serving as president of Hollydale Citizens Association, and pining over his crush—the beautiful local weather girl Bethany Krims.
When a carnival arrives in town for 4th of July, Damon, as the head of the local citizen’s association, is responsible for overseeing its setup. But when the carnival owner is found strangled, Damon starts “dabbling” in the investigation being led by his friend Detective Gerry Sloman.
Damon is mostly modest, but pompous at the oddest times. I enjoy the interactions between Damon and the women in this book, which are all funny and warmhearted. Damon seems to have his hands full with lots of women.
It Takes Two to Strangle is a satisfying debut. It has all the favorable elements of a cozy mystery—a protagonist who’s easy to like, the sense of community in a small town, love triangles, and more.
Other books in the Damon Lassard Dabbling Detective series are:
What did you think about It Takes Two to Strangle?
Last Updated on December 2, 2025 by Sarah Ann
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