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A Pair of Aces
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A gripping novel about two trailblazing women on opposite sides of the law—a prosecutor and a madam—who team up to bring down notorious gangster Lucky Luciano, from the New York Times bestselling authors of the million-copy bestseller The Personal Librarian.
Eunice Carter, assistant district attorney for the City of New York and Manhattan’s first Black female prosecutor, has her sights set on the one and only Lucky Luciano, head of New York City’s five largest organized crime families. Other prosectors have tried to bring down Lucky, but they’ve all focused on the crime syndicate’s traditional businesses—bootlegging, gambling, loan sharking, and drug dealing—or tax evasion. No one has thought to approach the mob through its hand in prostitution. Until Eunice. But she can’t get Luciano alone.
Polly Adler has worked long and hard to build up her high-class brothel business. Her client list is filled with well-known names, both the famous and the infamous, who all know her booze is top-notch, her music first-rate, her food exquisite, and her girls the best. But Lucky has gone too far, putting her girls in danger, and Polly finally sees the chance to end his reign once and for all.
Together, Eunice and Polly fashion a case utilizing a network of women. Bridging the enormous divide between them and risking their own lives, they assemble evidence bit by bit, under the nose of the man they’re trying to convict. It is this very alliance—of two women from vastly different worlds—that launches the most sensational trial New York City has ever seen.
Eunice Carter, assistant district attorney for the City of New York and Manhattan’s first Black female prosecutor, has her sights set on the one and only Lucky Luciano, head of New York City’s five largest organized crime families. Other prosectors have tried to bring down Lucky, but they’ve all focused on the crime syndicate’s traditional businesses—bootlegging, gambling, loan sharking, and drug dealing—or tax evasion. No one has thought to approach the mob through its hand in prostitution. Until Eunice. But she can’t get Luciano alone.
Polly Adler has worked long and hard to build up her high-class brothel business. Her client list is filled with well-known names, both the famous and the infamous, who all know her booze is top-notch, her music first-rate, her food exquisite, and her girls the best. But Lucky has gone too far, putting her girls in danger, and Polly finally sees the chance to end his reign once and for all.
Together, Eunice and Polly fashion a case utilizing a network of women. Bridging the enormous divide between them and risking their own lives, they assemble evidence bit by bit, under the nose of the man they’re trying to convict. It is this very alliance—of two women from vastly different worlds—that launches the most sensational trial New York City has ever seen.
400 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication June 2, 2026
About the author
Victoria Christopher Murray
51 books2,616 followersVictoria Christopher Murray is the author of nine Essence bestselling novels, including The Ex Files; Too Little, Too Late; and Lady Jasmine. Winner of the African American Literary Award for Fiction and Author of the Year (Female).
She has received numerous awards including the Golden Pen Award for Best Inspirational Fiction and the Phyllis Wheatley Trailblazer Award for being a pioneer in African American Fiction. Since 2007, Victoria has won nine African American Literary Awards for best novel, best Christian fiction and Author of the Year — Female. After four nominations, Victoria finally won an NAACP Image Award in Outstanding Literary Work for her social commentary novel, Stand Your Ground.
Victoria splits her time between Los Angeles and Washington DC.
She has received numerous awards including the Golden Pen Award for Best Inspirational Fiction and the Phyllis Wheatley Trailblazer Award for being a pioneer in African American Fiction. Since 2007, Victoria has won nine African American Literary Awards for best novel, best Christian fiction and Author of the Year — Female. After four nominations, Victoria finally won an NAACP Image Award in Outstanding Literary Work for her social commentary novel, Stand Your Ground.
Victoria splits her time between Los Angeles and Washington DC.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
May 18, 2026
This historical fiction novel was both brilliant and powerful! This is set in New York in the 1930’s and features a diverse cast and plenty of drama! I found this book to be informative, tense, inspiring, emotional, and adventurous. The characters were lovable and well-developed. This book started on the slow side, but really began building up towards the middle, and ended perfectly.
Two completely different women get together and take down a well known mob boss! The elements that this book has are phenomenal. It comes with strong female leads, real history, and a newfound sisterhood! I highly recommend this book if you love historical fiction and powerful women! It gave me the movie, Gangster Squad” vibes! Overall, I give this book a 4 star rating!
Thank you to NetGalley, authors Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray, and Berkley Publishing Group for this eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This book is set to be published on June 2, 2026!
Two completely different women get together and take down a well known mob boss! The elements that this book has are phenomenal. It comes with strong female leads, real history, and a newfound sisterhood! I highly recommend this book if you love historical fiction and powerful women! It gave me the movie, Gangster Squad” vibes! Overall, I give this book a 4 star rating!
Thank you to NetGalley, authors Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray, and Berkley Publishing Group for this eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This book is set to be published on June 2, 2026!
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February 9, 2026What could a madam and a Black female lawyer in the 1930s have in common?
Putting abusive, corrupt gangster kingpins behind bars. (Relevant to today, sadly, so very relevant.)
Meticulously researched and absorbingly written. The authors take their time building the world as well as the characters, so that the reader really gets into their well-worn shoes. It can get grim at times, but it's very well done, avoiding the merely salacious detail and keeping the eye on the prize: women who work for agency, and attain the goal. In spite of the fallout in a men's world.
A very gripping read.
Putting abusive, corrupt gangster kingpins behind bars. (Relevant to today, sadly, so very relevant.)
Meticulously researched and absorbingly written. The authors take their time building the world as well as the characters, so that the reader really gets into their well-worn shoes. It can get grim at times, but it's very well done, avoiding the merely salacious detail and keeping the eye on the prize: women who work for agency, and attain the goal. In spite of the fallout in a men's world.
A very gripping read.
February 21, 2026
4.5
The duo of Benedict and Murray as writers of historical fiction are two for two in my world. The Personal Librarian was one of my favorite books of the last few years and this new one that I was lucky enough to get an advance copy of, did not disappoint. They have a knack for telling biographical stories with incredible depth and description that makes you feel like you know the characters intimately.
In this case, they recount the two women who took down one the most notorious New York gangsters of the era, Lucky Luciano, at a time when women were primarily relegated to background roles.
I turned on a lot of people to The Personal Librarian and I will recommend this book to those same people with equal enthusiasm!
The duo of Benedict and Murray as writers of historical fiction are two for two in my world. The Personal Librarian was one of my favorite books of the last few years and this new one that I was lucky enough to get an advance copy of, did not disappoint. They have a knack for telling biographical stories with incredible depth and description that makes you feel like you know the characters intimately.
In this case, they recount the two women who took down one the most notorious New York gangsters of the era, Lucky Luciano, at a time when women were primarily relegated to background roles.
I turned on a lot of people to The Personal Librarian and I will recommend this book to those same people with equal enthusiasm!
May 2, 2026
Pub date - 6/23/26
Author - Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
Publisher - Berkley
Rating - 3⭐️
There’s more than one way to take down organized crime.
A Pair of Aces takes off from the start and doesn’t stop until it’s over. I really enjoyed the mystery and atmosphere of this novel. The writing is well done - precise and calculated.
I especially liked watching the friendship that developed between Eunice and Polly as this is the basis of the story. It was an unlikely covert friendship, but at the same time necessary, even risky. That careful dance of trust was portrayed perfectly. Going up against the mob is a particularly difficult thing to do on your own. Watching their friendship flourish through the most difficult circumstances showed determination and trust.
I recommend this to all those who want an easy read that’s not hard to follow. Clean, historical mob fiction.
Author - Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
Publisher - Berkley
Rating - 3⭐️
There’s more than one way to take down organized crime.
A Pair of Aces takes off from the start and doesn’t stop until it’s over. I really enjoyed the mystery and atmosphere of this novel. The writing is well done - precise and calculated.
I especially liked watching the friendship that developed between Eunice and Polly as this is the basis of the story. It was an unlikely covert friendship, but at the same time necessary, even risky. That careful dance of trust was portrayed perfectly. Going up against the mob is a particularly difficult thing to do on your own. Watching their friendship flourish through the most difficult circumstances showed determination and trust.
I recommend this to all those who want an easy read that’s not hard to follow. Clean, historical mob fiction.
January 25, 2026
Eunice Carter, the only woman on a special team of prosecutors, and Polly Adler, the most well-known madam in NYC, come together to help bring a notorious mob boss, Lucky Luciano, to justice. And did I mention that Eunice is a black woman and Polly is a Jewish immigrant from Russia? These two women form the unlikeliest of alliances to restore harmony back to 1930’s NYC. The story goes back & forth between the two women, and we also learn of all their struggles in life & in their chosen professions. Polly Adler never set out to be a prostitution madam, but through circumstances out of her control, as well as for her girls, we learn how these women end up in this predicament. I was so totally enraptured by this book. And if I must say, I find the authors of this book a true “Pair of Aces.” I will read anything these two women put out.
Many thanks to NetGalley & Berkley for the opportunity to read an eARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinions.
Many thanks to NetGalley & Berkley for the opportunity to read an eARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinions.
Currently Reading
March 25, 2026This is the 3rd Book Collaboration by Victoria Christopher Murray and Marie Benedict. I really enjoy both these authors and look forward to this latest read. They are best know for writing The Personal Librarian. Each has written outstanding books of their own. I especially enjoyed Harlem Rhapsody
published in 2025
published in 2025
April 17, 2026
really strong 4!! i loved both characters and how they worked together when no one would have thought. also loved the whole premise around prostitution and mobs in the 1930s. i felt like the ending dragged a bit which is why it wasn’t quite a 5 star
May 22, 2026
Marie Benedict is a favorite author of mine. This novel hits two of may favorite genres - historical fiction and women’s fiction. The book is about an unlikely pair of women who work together behind the scenes to indict a criminal. One is an assistant district attorney, and the other is a well-known madam. This happened in 1936 and was interesting to me because the criminal found a hiding place in Hot Springs, Arkansas. I do not want to tip my hand about the Pair of Aces and what happened with the investigation and court case.
Thanks to Net Galley, the authors and the publisher for the advanced ebook for my honest opinion. I recommend this book and am looking forward to its release in June because I really like reading the authors’ notes about their research in writing a historical fiction novel.
Thanks to Net Galley, the authors and the publisher for the advanced ebook for my honest opinion. I recommend this book and am looking forward to its release in June because I really like reading the authors’ notes about their research in writing a historical fiction novel.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Overall A Pair of Aces is an interesting and compelling story that centers women, the ways in which women find/make power, even during times in history in which it was uncommon or in occupations in which power is not common. I particularly appreciated the juxtaposition of a white Jewish immigrant becoming a madam pout of necessity and a black female district attorney and their realization and understanding of privilege. The story and the characters are interesting, but it fell a bit flat and slower than expected for both the topic and the authors.
I enjoyed reading the story overall, the strong female characters, as well as the time period, however, I could put it down and forget about what I was reading and it just felt like something was missing. While I enjoyed reading the story, it wasn’t my favorite of these authors. I thank NetGalley for the advanced copy.
I enjoyed reading the story overall, the strong female characters, as well as the time period, however, I could put it down and forget about what I was reading and it just felt like something was missing. While I enjoyed reading the story, it wasn’t my favorite of these authors. I thank NetGalley for the advanced copy.
February 10, 2026
Great read filled with so many controversial subjects.
The trial and conviction of mob kingpin “Lucky” Luciano was a turning point for the city of New York but more importantly it marked a major milestone for women of color and the professional black woman lawyer who led the charge. It exposed the abuse of women of many backgrounds who were pulled or forced into lives of prostitution. In so many ways it tied into what we are witnessing today with the circumstances surrounding Epstein and his co-conspirators.
Can people of power and prestige hold people of lesser standing prisoner in their own lives? We have seen it again and again. Can the words of female victims be believed over these powerful men who seem so in control? Will we ever get to the point where people of conviction will bear witness to these unfathomable crimes and stand up to say “this is enough”? Can we break the barriers constructed by this wealth, power and privilege to bring the powerful to justice and live in a world where people are equals, based on their desire for fairness and righteous action? Please let it be so. And let it be soon.
This story not only touches on all these issues but on the willingness of two very different women to work together relentlessly to achieve these goals. Very well written book by two historically savvy authors who excel at storytelling in a way that puts you right there, in the heart of the story.
Thank you Penguin Random House for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
#apairofaces #NetGalley #readforknowledge #readforpower #readeveryday
The trial and conviction of mob kingpin “Lucky” Luciano was a turning point for the city of New York but more importantly it marked a major milestone for women of color and the professional black woman lawyer who led the charge. It exposed the abuse of women of many backgrounds who were pulled or forced into lives of prostitution. In so many ways it tied into what we are witnessing today with the circumstances surrounding Epstein and his co-conspirators.
Can people of power and prestige hold people of lesser standing prisoner in their own lives? We have seen it again and again. Can the words of female victims be believed over these powerful men who seem so in control? Will we ever get to the point where people of conviction will bear witness to these unfathomable crimes and stand up to say “this is enough”? Can we break the barriers constructed by this wealth, power and privilege to bring the powerful to justice and live in a world where people are equals, based on their desire for fairness and righteous action? Please let it be so. And let it be soon.
This story not only touches on all these issues but on the willingness of two very different women to work together relentlessly to achieve these goals. Very well written book by two historically savvy authors who excel at storytelling in a way that puts you right there, in the heart of the story.
Thank you Penguin Random House for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
#apairofaces #NetGalley #readforknowledge #readforpower #readeveryday
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Set against the grit and corruption of 1930s New York, A Pair of Aces delivers a tightly constructed historical narrative centered on two formidable women: Eunice Carter, Manhattan’s first Black female prosecutor, and Polly Adler, a well-connected madam whose testimony becomes pivotal in building a case against mob boss Lucky Luciano.
The strength of this novel lies in its structure and pacing. Told in dual POV with concise, purposeful chapters, the plot unfolds with steady momentum, balancing courtroom strategy with the personal risks both women face. The writing is polished and immersive, particularly in its depiction of systemic discrimination—racial, religious, and gender-based—without overwhelming the narrative. The authors skillfully highlight how Eunice’s legal precision and Polly’s insider knowledge intersect to dismantle Luciano’s empire when more conventional approaches fail.
While the plot is compelling and the historical framework well-researched, the novel would have benefited from deeper exploration of both women’s formative years. Their resilience is clear, but additional backstory could have strengthened the emotional connection and further enriched their motivations.
Overall, this is a thoughtfully written and engaging work of historical fiction that spotlights two overlooked women who helped shape American legal history. The collaboration between Benedict and Murray once again results in a seamless narrative with strong thematic resonance and a gripping, justice-driven plot.
Thank you to Marie Benedict, Victoria Christopher Murray, NetGalley, and Berkley Publishing Group for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
The strength of this novel lies in its structure and pacing. Told in dual POV with concise, purposeful chapters, the plot unfolds with steady momentum, balancing courtroom strategy with the personal risks both women face. The writing is polished and immersive, particularly in its depiction of systemic discrimination—racial, religious, and gender-based—without overwhelming the narrative. The authors skillfully highlight how Eunice’s legal precision and Polly’s insider knowledge intersect to dismantle Luciano’s empire when more conventional approaches fail.
While the plot is compelling and the historical framework well-researched, the novel would have benefited from deeper exploration of both women’s formative years. Their resilience is clear, but additional backstory could have strengthened the emotional connection and further enriched their motivations.
Overall, this is a thoughtfully written and engaging work of historical fiction that spotlights two overlooked women who helped shape American legal history. The collaboration between Benedict and Murray once again results in a seamless narrative with strong thematic resonance and a gripping, justice-driven plot.
Thank you to Marie Benedict, Victoria Christopher Murray, NetGalley, and Berkley Publishing Group for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
February 9, 2026
A Pair of Aces
My favorite genre is historical fiction and as such this book doesn’t disappoint. A pair of aces refers to two historical women, Eunice Carter and Polly Adler. Eunice Carter was a pioneering American lawyer and civil rights figure. She was one of the first black female prosecutors in the US. As the book describes, she played a key role in investigating and helping to bring down Lucky Luciano, a major mafia boss. While researching her, I found an interesting tidbit, she was the mother of June Carter Cash, who later married Johnny Cash.
The other ace in this pair is Polly Adler a Jewish Russian immigrant, who made it big as a high end New York City madam in the 1930’s. The book is about how these two ladies work together to bring down Lucky Luciano and his organized prostitution ring.
The chapters alternate between each woman’s point of view, it is very well written and thought out, a definite 5 stars for me. Another interesting tidbit I found about Polly, she did write and published a best selling memoir titled A House Is Not a Home in 1953 which was later made into a movie.
My favorite genre is historical fiction and as such this book doesn’t disappoint. A pair of aces refers to two historical women, Eunice Carter and Polly Adler. Eunice Carter was a pioneering American lawyer and civil rights figure. She was one of the first black female prosecutors in the US. As the book describes, she played a key role in investigating and helping to bring down Lucky Luciano, a major mafia boss. While researching her, I found an interesting tidbit, she was the mother of June Carter Cash, who later married Johnny Cash.
The other ace in this pair is Polly Adler a Jewish Russian immigrant, who made it big as a high end New York City madam in the 1930’s. The book is about how these two ladies work together to bring down Lucky Luciano and his organized prostitution ring.
The chapters alternate between each woman’s point of view, it is very well written and thought out, a definite 5 stars for me. Another interesting tidbit I found about Polly, she did write and published a best selling memoir titled A House Is Not a Home in 1953 which was later made into a movie.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A story of two strong, independent women in a time when there were few opportunities for women, particularly women of colour and Jewish immigrants. A story of two women who worked together to take down the mob in NYC in the 1930s.
The story started slowly for me and I wasn't immediately invested in the characters. As the story developed, however, I felt like maybe that was intentional; perhaps the authors wanted the readers to establish their relationships with the characters as Eunice and Polly's trust in each other grew and Eunice's case against Lucky Luciano was built. I really ended up enjoying the story.
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
The story started slowly for me and I wasn't immediately invested in the characters. As the story developed, however, I felt like maybe that was intentional; perhaps the authors wanted the readers to establish their relationships with the characters as Eunice and Polly's trust in each other grew and Eunice's case against Lucky Luciano was built. I really ended up enjoying the story.
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 1, 2026
A PAIR OF ACES ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5. Release date 6/23/2026. In 1935, the New York City mob is getting out of control. Even though prohibition is over, the mob is taking their reigns to another level, taking over the prostitution market. When one of the city’s ADAs and Madams team up to take down the leader, attempting to bite the head off the snake. This was a really intriguing book, told by dual POV with short chapters that keeps you turning the page. I really enjoyed The Personal Librarian, but found this pace even better at holding my interest. A really good read! Thanks NetGalley for the ARC!
January 19, 2026
Marie Benedict and Victoria Murray have written an exciting and carefully researched account of the collaboration between one of New York City’s most famous madams and an ambitious black female assistant district attorney. Eunice Carter fights for a seat at Thomas Dewey’s prosecution of Lucky Luciano, as well as for her marriage and the safety of her family. Polly Adler, who has worked her way up from a terrible past, became Eunice’s informant, despite the danger to herself, her girls, and her livelihood. Historical fiction at its finest. Thank you NetGalley for providing me with this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A Pair of Aces
I loved this book and would have rated it 10 if that was an option. The story of Eunice Carter and Polly Adler, two women I had never heard of before, drew me in from page one. I read First Ladies and The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray and was looking forward to A Pair of Aces, their latest collaboratio. I am not one to repeat the synopsis in a review. I prefer to share why I loved this book and am recommending it to my book club after it is published.
A Pair of Aces is the true story of Polly Adler, known as “the Jewish Jezebel” and the “best madam of New York City" and Eunice Carter, the only woman and person of color on Thomas Dewey’s Crime Commission. Remember, this is the 1930’s when racial discrimination was the order of the day. For Eunice, a Negro woman with a law degree, there were places in New York City she was not allowed to enter and people who did not easily accept her role as an Assistant District Attorney. Eunice Carter was one of the strongest, most determined, educated and courageous women I’ve ever “met” in a historical novel.
Pearl “Polly” Adler, was sent by her father from Russia to Springfield Illinois to live with family friends at the young age of 13. She worked hard at jobs immigrants often took when arriving in America, but from an early age she realized she wanted money, fame and luxury. Polly moved to Brooklyn, fell in love with Coney Island and finally made it to New York City. Her journey wasn’t easy but Polly had more guts than most and, with her quick wit and understanding of human nature, she rapidly rose to a level of prestige in her chosen profession.
Eunice and Polly’s paths would never have crossed had it not been for Thomas Dewey’s Crime Commission, whose focus was ending the reign of terror and deaths tied to organized crime, starting with Dutch Schultz. When the other 19 Assistant D.A’s were assigned different vices to investigate, Eunice was relegated to listening to citizen complaints about crime in their neighborhoods.
After Dutch Schultz was murdered by the mob the Crime Commission went after Charles "Lucky" Luciano. Before being hired by Dewey Eunice had spent time in the Women’s Court. Dewey disagreed when she suggested prostitution was the crime that would take down Luciano. His denial didn’t stop her from quietly building her case. As you will learn Eunice and Polly were quite a formidable team. I believe that under different circumstances they could have been good friends.
This novel is rich with characters, with personal conflicts and challenges. Lisle, Eunice’s husband and her mother and son were intricately woven into her story. The interactions between her and the other 19 D.A’s and Mr. Dewey felt real. She took incredible risks to get to the truth, worked very long hours and never stopped believing in her mission. And, eventually, in herself.
I really liked Polly and her right-hand, live-in best friend fondly referred to as The Lion. Polly took care of her “chosen” family of prostitutes, while supporting her father and brother in Brooklyn, and her mother and siblings still living Russia. Polly remained determined to be the best madam - and she was - regardless of what running a high-class brothel took in the 1930’s. Eunice and Polly’s stories and lives were filled with intrigue, family issues and some fairly frightening moments.
The writing in A Pair of Aces is exquisite, the quick paced dialogue drew me into the story and tensions ran high. I read this book during Black History Month and shared Eunice Carter’s story with friends and family. My only regret is that the Author's Notes, one of my favorite parts of any book I read, were not included in this ARC. I will buy the book when it comes out to reread the story and learn more from the Author's Notes.
My sincere thank you to the Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a digital copy of A Pair of Aces.
I loved this book and would have rated it 10 if that was an option. The story of Eunice Carter and Polly Adler, two women I had never heard of before, drew me in from page one. I read First Ladies and The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray and was looking forward to A Pair of Aces, their latest collaboratio. I am not one to repeat the synopsis in a review. I prefer to share why I loved this book and am recommending it to my book club after it is published.
A Pair of Aces is the true story of Polly Adler, known as “the Jewish Jezebel” and the “best madam of New York City" and Eunice Carter, the only woman and person of color on Thomas Dewey’s Crime Commission. Remember, this is the 1930’s when racial discrimination was the order of the day. For Eunice, a Negro woman with a law degree, there were places in New York City she was not allowed to enter and people who did not easily accept her role as an Assistant District Attorney. Eunice Carter was one of the strongest, most determined, educated and courageous women I’ve ever “met” in a historical novel.
Pearl “Polly” Adler, was sent by her father from Russia to Springfield Illinois to live with family friends at the young age of 13. She worked hard at jobs immigrants often took when arriving in America, but from an early age she realized she wanted money, fame and luxury. Polly moved to Brooklyn, fell in love with Coney Island and finally made it to New York City. Her journey wasn’t easy but Polly had more guts than most and, with her quick wit and understanding of human nature, she rapidly rose to a level of prestige in her chosen profession.
Eunice and Polly’s paths would never have crossed had it not been for Thomas Dewey’s Crime Commission, whose focus was ending the reign of terror and deaths tied to organized crime, starting with Dutch Schultz. When the other 19 Assistant D.A’s were assigned different vices to investigate, Eunice was relegated to listening to citizen complaints about crime in their neighborhoods.
After Dutch Schultz was murdered by the mob the Crime Commission went after Charles "Lucky" Luciano. Before being hired by Dewey Eunice had spent time in the Women’s Court. Dewey disagreed when she suggested prostitution was the crime that would take down Luciano. His denial didn’t stop her from quietly building her case. As you will learn Eunice and Polly were quite a formidable team. I believe that under different circumstances they could have been good friends.
This novel is rich with characters, with personal conflicts and challenges. Lisle, Eunice’s husband and her mother and son were intricately woven into her story. The interactions between her and the other 19 D.A’s and Mr. Dewey felt real. She took incredible risks to get to the truth, worked very long hours and never stopped believing in her mission. And, eventually, in herself.
I really liked Polly and her right-hand, live-in best friend fondly referred to as The Lion. Polly took care of her “chosen” family of prostitutes, while supporting her father and brother in Brooklyn, and her mother and siblings still living Russia. Polly remained determined to be the best madam - and she was - regardless of what running a high-class brothel took in the 1930’s. Eunice and Polly’s stories and lives were filled with intrigue, family issues and some fairly frightening moments.
The writing in A Pair of Aces is exquisite, the quick paced dialogue drew me into the story and tensions ran high. I read this book during Black History Month and shared Eunice Carter’s story with friends and family. My only regret is that the Author's Notes, one of my favorite parts of any book I read, were not included in this ARC. I will buy the book when it comes out to reread the story and learn more from the Author's Notes.
My sincere thank you to the Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a digital copy of A Pair of Aces.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A Pair of Aces
By Victoria Christopher Murray, Marie Benedict
Real life Eunice Carter, assistant district attorney for the City of New York and Manhattan’s first Black female prosecutor and Polly Adler, madam of one of New York City's high class brothels, have much in common while also being very different. In this book, they also have some discussions about who has had things worse and will continue to have things worse. Eunice will never be able to shed her Black skin while Polly can always leave her frowned upon occupation. At the same time, Polly was a Jewish immigrant in a strange country, all alone at the age of twelve, and she has had to fight to exist and feed herself and her family back home ever since that time. Eunice has had options and opportunities, despite her color, that never were available to a starving Jewish girl from another country.
This story is historical fiction and for all the real history and real famous and infamous people in this story, there is so much that is fictional. I wish that my copy of the book contained an author's note so that I might have a better idea of what was embellished and fictionalized in this story but the author's note should be in the final copies of the book. Instead, I did some research on both women and from what I can tell, these two women never met each other. For that reason, I think of this story as "based on" these women rather than actually about the real life figures.
It's 1930s New York City and organized crime families have a stranglehold on businesses big and small, legal and illegal. Murder is a way of doing business with these families and they are squashing the life out of the citizens of New York City with their fights with each other and for total control of the city. When Lucky Luciano gains the top rung of the mobster ladder, everything he touches is turned into his business with a ruthless aim to get as much work and money out of each human in the cog of his horrific empire.
Other brothels have lost their women to Luciano and however bad their lives were with their respective brothels before, being on the assembly line of Luciano's service of women's bodies to men is much worse than ever. Polly has always prided herself in taking care of her employees, of putting herself between her women and clients who don't treat them right. But with Luciano taking over the crime world, everyone is suffering unless they can get away or hide from the mob.
Being a woman and being Black, Eunice is given the equivalent of serving coffee to her co-assistant district attorneys. She knows of the corruption in the brothel business but this particular crime is not considered important or worthy enough to actually spend time on and that's why it's been given to Eunice to work the cases. But Eunice sees that the brothel business can be a way to bring big crime bosses down. Between Polly and Eunice, they know enough to do just that if only Eunice can get Polly to help her and if only Eunice can get her superiors to listen to her and take what she is saying seriously.
The story is very interesting but I'm aware that so much of what these women say or think has to have been made up to make the story. I do know that Polly wrote her autobiography years after this time but I haven't read it and Eunice's grandson wrote her biography, which I have not read either. Someday I'd like to read both and this story will be forefront in my mind when I read those books. Mob life and what they did to the people of New York City was horrible and deadly and it's so very sad that it had such a control over an entire city. There was so much to discuss about these two women with DeAnn, as we buddy read this story.
Expected publication June 2, 2026
Thank you to Elisha, Berkley Publishing Group | Berkley and NetGalley for this ARC
By Victoria Christopher Murray, Marie Benedict
Real life Eunice Carter, assistant district attorney for the City of New York and Manhattan’s first Black female prosecutor and Polly Adler, madam of one of New York City's high class brothels, have much in common while also being very different. In this book, they also have some discussions about who has had things worse and will continue to have things worse. Eunice will never be able to shed her Black skin while Polly can always leave her frowned upon occupation. At the same time, Polly was a Jewish immigrant in a strange country, all alone at the age of twelve, and she has had to fight to exist and feed herself and her family back home ever since that time. Eunice has had options and opportunities, despite her color, that never were available to a starving Jewish girl from another country.
This story is historical fiction and for all the real history and real famous and infamous people in this story, there is so much that is fictional. I wish that my copy of the book contained an author's note so that I might have a better idea of what was embellished and fictionalized in this story but the author's note should be in the final copies of the book. Instead, I did some research on both women and from what I can tell, these two women never met each other. For that reason, I think of this story as "based on" these women rather than actually about the real life figures.
It's 1930s New York City and organized crime families have a stranglehold on businesses big and small, legal and illegal. Murder is a way of doing business with these families and they are squashing the life out of the citizens of New York City with their fights with each other and for total control of the city. When Lucky Luciano gains the top rung of the mobster ladder, everything he touches is turned into his business with a ruthless aim to get as much work and money out of each human in the cog of his horrific empire.
Other brothels have lost their women to Luciano and however bad their lives were with their respective brothels before, being on the assembly line of Luciano's service of women's bodies to men is much worse than ever. Polly has always prided herself in taking care of her employees, of putting herself between her women and clients who don't treat them right. But with Luciano taking over the crime world, everyone is suffering unless they can get away or hide from the mob.
Being a woman and being Black, Eunice is given the equivalent of serving coffee to her co-assistant district attorneys. She knows of the corruption in the brothel business but this particular crime is not considered important or worthy enough to actually spend time on and that's why it's been given to Eunice to work the cases. But Eunice sees that the brothel business can be a way to bring big crime bosses down. Between Polly and Eunice, they know enough to do just that if only Eunice can get Polly to help her and if only Eunice can get her superiors to listen to her and take what she is saying seriously.
The story is very interesting but I'm aware that so much of what these women say or think has to have been made up to make the story. I do know that Polly wrote her autobiography years after this time but I haven't read it and Eunice's grandson wrote her biography, which I have not read either. Someday I'd like to read both and this story will be forefront in my mind when I read those books. Mob life and what they did to the people of New York City was horrible and deadly and it's so very sad that it had such a control over an entire city. There was so much to discuss about these two women with DeAnn, as we buddy read this story.
Expected publication June 2, 2026
Thank you to Elisha, Berkley Publishing Group | Berkley and NetGalley for this ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray’s A Pair of Aces is a richly textured foray into the shadowed corridors of 1930s New York—a world where power is brokered in back rooms, loyalties are transactional, and survival often demands moral compromise. What elevates this novel beyond a conventional historical crime narrative is its deft interweaving of two vastly different women whose lives intersect in the unlikeliest of ways, set against the formidable backdrop of the Luciano crime empire.
At the heart of the novel is the sprawling, insidious reach of the mob—less a collection of criminals than a parallel system of governance, shaping the city’s rhythms with quiet menace. Lucky Luciano emerges not merely as a figurehead, but as a symbol of an era in which vice was systematized and institutionalized, his influence threading through politics, policing, and the lives of the vulnerable. Benedict and Murray render this world with an almost cinematic precision, capturing both its seduction and its brutality.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review
Into this fraught landscape step Eunice Carter and Polly Adler—two women who, on paper, could not be more dissimilar. Eunice, a brilliant Black attorney and the only woman on Thomas Dewey’s prosecutorial team, embodies discipline, intellect, and an unwavering belief in the rule of law, even as she navigates the racial and gender barriers of her time. Polly, by contrast, is a self-made Jewish immigrant who clawed her way from abandonment to notoriety, becoming the city’s most prominent madam. Yet Polly is no mere caricature of vice; she is portrayed with nuance and empathy, her brothel less a den of exploitation than a carefully managed refuge where women are afforded a degree of dignity rare for the era.
The genius of the novel lies in the convergence of these two narratives. Their partnership—tentative, strategic, and ultimately transformative—forms the emotional and intellectual core of the book. Through alternating perspectives, the authors allow each woman’s voice to resonate with clarity and depth, revealing not only their external struggles but their internal reckonings. As they circle one another, first warily and then with growing respect, the reader witnesses the dismantling of assumptions on both sides.
Their collaboration to bring down Luciano is as improbable as it is compelling. It is here that the novel transcends biography and becomes something more profound: a meditation on power, agency, and the unexpected alliances that can alter the course of history. The tension between law and lawlessness, respectability and survival, is never neatly resolved, lending the narrative a satisfying complexity.
Benedict and Murray demonstrate remarkable synergy, their prose seamless and assured, their pacing taut without sacrificing depth. The result is a narrative that feels both expansive and intimate, historically grounded yet vibrantly alive.
For readers unfamiliar with this chapter of history, A Pair of Aces offers not just illumination but immersion. It is a story that lingers—one that invites you to reconsider who gets to shape history, and how often those figures stand just outside the spotlight. Engaging, sophisticated, and difficult to put down, it is a novel that rewards both the curious mind and the discerning reader.
At the heart of the novel is the sprawling, insidious reach of the mob—less a collection of criminals than a parallel system of governance, shaping the city’s rhythms with quiet menace. Lucky Luciano emerges not merely as a figurehead, but as a symbol of an era in which vice was systematized and institutionalized, his influence threading through politics, policing, and the lives of the vulnerable. Benedict and Murray render this world with an almost cinematic precision, capturing both its seduction and its brutality.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review
Into this fraught landscape step Eunice Carter and Polly Adler—two women who, on paper, could not be more dissimilar. Eunice, a brilliant Black attorney and the only woman on Thomas Dewey’s prosecutorial team, embodies discipline, intellect, and an unwavering belief in the rule of law, even as she navigates the racial and gender barriers of her time. Polly, by contrast, is a self-made Jewish immigrant who clawed her way from abandonment to notoriety, becoming the city’s most prominent madam. Yet Polly is no mere caricature of vice; she is portrayed with nuance and empathy, her brothel less a den of exploitation than a carefully managed refuge where women are afforded a degree of dignity rare for the era.
The genius of the novel lies in the convergence of these two narratives. Their partnership—tentative, strategic, and ultimately transformative—forms the emotional and intellectual core of the book. Through alternating perspectives, the authors allow each woman’s voice to resonate with clarity and depth, revealing not only their external struggles but their internal reckonings. As they circle one another, first warily and then with growing respect, the reader witnesses the dismantling of assumptions on both sides.
Their collaboration to bring down Luciano is as improbable as it is compelling. It is here that the novel transcends biography and becomes something more profound: a meditation on power, agency, and the unexpected alliances that can alter the course of history. The tension between law and lawlessness, respectability and survival, is never neatly resolved, lending the narrative a satisfying complexity.
Benedict and Murray demonstrate remarkable synergy, their prose seamless and assured, their pacing taut without sacrificing depth. The result is a narrative that feels both expansive and intimate, historically grounded yet vibrantly alive.
For readers unfamiliar with this chapter of history, A Pair of Aces offers not just illumination but immersion. It is a story that lingers—one that invites you to reconsider who gets to shape history, and how often those figures stand just outside the spotlight. Engaging, sophisticated, and difficult to put down, it is a novel that rewards both the curious mind and the discerning reader.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I absolutely love novels that unfold through multiple points of view, and A Pair of Aces delivers this beautifully. Set in the 1930s, this captivating work of historical fiction weaves together the remarkable true stories of Eunice Carter—the first Black female assistant district attorney in New York City—and Pearl "Polly" Adler, the infamous madam who ran high-profile brothels in the city.
Appointed to the DA’s office by the mayor, Eunice Carter is initially sidelined with menial tasks by Special Prosecutor Thomas E. Dewey. Yet her determination and brilliance shine through as she refuses to let this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity pass her by. Through meticulous research and unwavering resolve, she uncovers crucial information that could help Dewey’s team bring down the notorious mobster Lucky Luciano. Watching her intellect and persistence come to the forefront is both inspiring and deeply satisfying.
At the same time, Polly Adler’s story adds depth and complexity, offering a fascinating glimpse into another side of New York City’s history. The unlikely alliance that develops between Eunice and Polly—two women from vastly different worlds—is one of the novel’s greatest strengths. Their alternating voices create a dynamic, immersive narrative that plays out vividly, almost like a classic noir film on the big screen.
One of the most delightful surprises for me was discovering that these central characters were real women. While I was familiar with some of the men mentioned in the story, I hadn’t realized Eunice Carter and Polly Adler were based on actual historical figures. Learning more about them after finishing the book only deepened my appreciation for the authors’ storytelling and the legacy of these trailblazing women.
The only thing I missed in my ARC was the authors’ note from Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray—I’m especially eager to read their insights when the book is officially released. If the novel itself is this compelling, I can only imagine how enriching their reflections will be.
A Pair of Aces is an engaging, empowering read that shines a well-deserved spotlight on two extraordinary women. It’s a story of ambition, resilience, and unexpected partnership—and it lingers long after the final page.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
Appointed to the DA’s office by the mayor, Eunice Carter is initially sidelined with menial tasks by Special Prosecutor Thomas E. Dewey. Yet her determination and brilliance shine through as she refuses to let this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity pass her by. Through meticulous research and unwavering resolve, she uncovers crucial information that could help Dewey’s team bring down the notorious mobster Lucky Luciano. Watching her intellect and persistence come to the forefront is both inspiring and deeply satisfying.
At the same time, Polly Adler’s story adds depth and complexity, offering a fascinating glimpse into another side of New York City’s history. The unlikely alliance that develops between Eunice and Polly—two women from vastly different worlds—is one of the novel’s greatest strengths. Their alternating voices create a dynamic, immersive narrative that plays out vividly, almost like a classic noir film on the big screen.
One of the most delightful surprises for me was discovering that these central characters were real women. While I was familiar with some of the men mentioned in the story, I hadn’t realized Eunice Carter and Polly Adler were based on actual historical figures. Learning more about them after finishing the book only deepened my appreciation for the authors’ storytelling and the legacy of these trailblazing women.
The only thing I missed in my ARC was the authors’ note from Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray—I’m especially eager to read their insights when the book is officially released. If the novel itself is this compelling, I can only imagine how enriching their reflections will be.
A Pair of Aces is an engaging, empowering read that shines a well-deserved spotlight on two extraordinary women. It’s a story of ambition, resilience, and unexpected partnership—and it lingers long after the final page.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“A Riveting, Unforgettable Triumph of Justice and Grit”
This captivating account of Eunice Carter, Manhattan’s trailblazing first Black female prosecutor, and Polly Adler, the legendary madam, is a masterclass in historical storytelling and suspense. The narrative immerses readers in 1930s New York—a city simultaneously dazzling and dangerous—where organized crime rules the streets and the justice system is a man’s world. Yet, it’s Eunice and Polly—two women from starkly different backgrounds—who dare to take on the criminal underworld’s most notorious kingpin: Lucky Luciano.
What makes this story truly extraordinary is its focus on female intelligence, resilience, and collaboration. Rather than rehashing familiar tales of mobsters and lawmen, the book gives center stage to women who have been sidelined by history. Eunice’s innovative legal strategy—targeting Luciano through his prostitution rackets—shows not just legal brilliance but also a deep understanding of the city’s hidden power structures. Polly Adler, often dismissed as merely a brothel owner, emerges as a courageous, shrewd, and resourceful partner, risking everything to bring justice for her girls.
The prose is electric, building tension as Eunice and Polly painstakingly gather evidence, navigating betrayals, threats, and impossible odds. Their alliance—fraught, unlikely, and ultimately transformative—adds emotional weight and urgency to the plot. The result is a courtroom drama for the ages, one that explodes with revelations and reminds us of the quiet heroism of those who operate in the shadows.
This book is more than a crime saga; it’s a celebration of women’s ingenuity and an indictment of the forces that try to silence them. Readers will come away inspired by Eunice and Polly’s courage, moved by their sacrifices, and riveted by a story that crackles with danger, heart, and hope. A must-read for fans of true crime, legal thrillers, and anyone who loves stories of women defying the odds.
Thank you, Marie Benedict, Victoria Christopher Murray, NetGalley, and Berkley Publishing Group, for the ARC.
This captivating account of Eunice Carter, Manhattan’s trailblazing first Black female prosecutor, and Polly Adler, the legendary madam, is a masterclass in historical storytelling and suspense. The narrative immerses readers in 1930s New York—a city simultaneously dazzling and dangerous—where organized crime rules the streets and the justice system is a man’s world. Yet, it’s Eunice and Polly—two women from starkly different backgrounds—who dare to take on the criminal underworld’s most notorious kingpin: Lucky Luciano.
What makes this story truly extraordinary is its focus on female intelligence, resilience, and collaboration. Rather than rehashing familiar tales of mobsters and lawmen, the book gives center stage to women who have been sidelined by history. Eunice’s innovative legal strategy—targeting Luciano through his prostitution rackets—shows not just legal brilliance but also a deep understanding of the city’s hidden power structures. Polly Adler, often dismissed as merely a brothel owner, emerges as a courageous, shrewd, and resourceful partner, risking everything to bring justice for her girls.
The prose is electric, building tension as Eunice and Polly painstakingly gather evidence, navigating betrayals, threats, and impossible odds. Their alliance—fraught, unlikely, and ultimately transformative—adds emotional weight and urgency to the plot. The result is a courtroom drama for the ages, one that explodes with revelations and reminds us of the quiet heroism of those who operate in the shadows.
This book is more than a crime saga; it’s a celebration of women’s ingenuity and an indictment of the forces that try to silence them. Readers will come away inspired by Eunice and Polly’s courage, moved by their sacrifices, and riveted by a story that crackles with danger, heart, and hope. A must-read for fans of true crime, legal thrillers, and anyone who loves stories of women defying the odds.
Thank you, Marie Benedict, Victoria Christopher Murray, NetGalley, and Berkley Publishing Group, for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Two very different women need to work together to take "Lucky" Luciano off New York's streets in 1935-1936.
Polly Adler is one of New York's most notorious madams. Arriving in New York from Russia as a twelve-year-old who spoke no English, Polly had to make her own way and send money home so that the rest of her family could join her in the United States. She began by working in a garment factory but was raped by her supervisor who fired her when she got pregnant. The people who she roomed with threw her out and left her struggling on the street for survival. She worked her way up from a street prostitute to the owner of a notorious house frequented by the literary set and local gangsters too. She prided herself in her care of her girls.
Something new is coming to New York. Organized crime has taken an interest in prostitution and wants to bring all the houses and girls under their control.
Meanwhile, Eunice Carter is an Assistant District Attorney working on the team with District Attorney Thomas Dewey to tackle organized crime. Eunice is a smart lawyer working under the burden of being both colored and female. While of high status in her neighborhood of Harlem, she finds herself relegated to the fringes of the investigation. She has been concentrating on prostitution which Dewey isn't very interested in until some other lines falter and Eunice makes contact with Polly who alerts her to the scheme of organizing prostitution under criminal control.
The two work together secretly to gather the information needed to bring down crime boss "Lucky" Luciano. At first Polly wants Luciano gone so that she can resume her usual business without interference but over the course of time her goals change. Eunice wants to bring down Luciano but almost loses her marriage over her dedication to the case.
This was an interesting story about two very different women. Each is fighting for her place in the world. They have more in common than either would have thought when they first met. This novel of biographical fiction introduced two amazing, but very human, woman.
Polly Adler is one of New York's most notorious madams. Arriving in New York from Russia as a twelve-year-old who spoke no English, Polly had to make her own way and send money home so that the rest of her family could join her in the United States. She began by working in a garment factory but was raped by her supervisor who fired her when she got pregnant. The people who she roomed with threw her out and left her struggling on the street for survival. She worked her way up from a street prostitute to the owner of a notorious house frequented by the literary set and local gangsters too. She prided herself in her care of her girls.
Something new is coming to New York. Organized crime has taken an interest in prostitution and wants to bring all the houses and girls under their control.
Meanwhile, Eunice Carter is an Assistant District Attorney working on the team with District Attorney Thomas Dewey to tackle organized crime. Eunice is a smart lawyer working under the burden of being both colored and female. While of high status in her neighborhood of Harlem, she finds herself relegated to the fringes of the investigation. She has been concentrating on prostitution which Dewey isn't very interested in until some other lines falter and Eunice makes contact with Polly who alerts her to the scheme of organizing prostitution under criminal control.
The two work together secretly to gather the information needed to bring down crime boss "Lucky" Luciano. At first Polly wants Luciano gone so that she can resume her usual business without interference but over the course of time her goals change. Eunice wants to bring down Luciano but almost loses her marriage over her dedication to the case.
This was an interesting story about two very different women. Each is fighting for her place in the world. They have more in common than either would have thought when they first met. This novel of biographical fiction introduced two amazing, but very human, woman.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4 Team Up Stars
This one is historical fiction based on real people. The title refers to a pair of very different women. The first is Eunice Carter, a trailblazing woman in her own right. She’s an assistant district attorney for New York City, the first Black female prosecutor, and the first Black woman to earn a law degree from Fordham University.
The second woman is Polly Adler, a madam in the NYC brothel business. She runs a high-class business with a client list to match. She’s outfitted her business with secret doors and a bouncer. Mobsters are on the client list, whether she likes it or not.
The story focuses on the stranglehold the mob has put on the city. They want to control everything, including the brothel business. The usual mob wars are going on with the mob families, but Lucky Luciano seems to be the head organizer.
Enter Thomas Dewey, prosecutor, who wants to take down Lucky. Eunice successfully applies for a spot on his prosecution team, but she has to work in the background because of her race and gender. Eunice intuits that the madams and working girls will be the key to getting a ruling against Lucky. Who better than a woman to talk to other women?
I appreciated Polly’s storyline, and it explains how one might become a madam. Sent to the US at an early age (12), Polly must make it on her own in any way that she can. She’s spent years building her business, and now the mob wants to take it all away. She learns of Eunice’s work and quietly helps her. There is rising tension as the mob threatens both women.
There’s coverage of the trial and the credibility issues surrounding the testimony of the madams and working girls. Once again, Polly has a suggestion for Eunice.
This was an interesting read, and I liked the women teaming up. I look forward to the final version and reading the author's notes for the historical clues they had to put the story together.
This was a great buddy read and discussion with Marilyn.
My thanks to Elisha and Berkley for the opportunity to read and honestly review this one. Scheduled to release 6.2.26.
This one is historical fiction based on real people. The title refers to a pair of very different women. The first is Eunice Carter, a trailblazing woman in her own right. She’s an assistant district attorney for New York City, the first Black female prosecutor, and the first Black woman to earn a law degree from Fordham University.
The second woman is Polly Adler, a madam in the NYC brothel business. She runs a high-class business with a client list to match. She’s outfitted her business with secret doors and a bouncer. Mobsters are on the client list, whether she likes it or not.
The story focuses on the stranglehold the mob has put on the city. They want to control everything, including the brothel business. The usual mob wars are going on with the mob families, but Lucky Luciano seems to be the head organizer.
Enter Thomas Dewey, prosecutor, who wants to take down Lucky. Eunice successfully applies for a spot on his prosecution team, but she has to work in the background because of her race and gender. Eunice intuits that the madams and working girls will be the key to getting a ruling against Lucky. Who better than a woman to talk to other women?
I appreciated Polly’s storyline, and it explains how one might become a madam. Sent to the US at an early age (12), Polly must make it on her own in any way that she can. She’s spent years building her business, and now the mob wants to take it all away. She learns of Eunice’s work and quietly helps her. There is rising tension as the mob threatens both women.
There’s coverage of the trial and the credibility issues surrounding the testimony of the madams and working girls. Once again, Polly has a suggestion for Eunice.
This was an interesting read, and I liked the women teaming up. I look forward to the final version and reading the author's notes for the historical clues they had to put the story together.
This was a great buddy read and discussion with Marilyn.
My thanks to Elisha and Berkley for the opportunity to read and honestly review this one. Scheduled to release 6.2.26.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A Pair of Aces brings to life two extraordinary historical women—Eunice Carter and Polly Adler—whose stories intersect in fascinating and unexpected ways. The title itself is a clever nod to these two formidable figures: one operating within the legal system to challenge corruption, the other navigating and shaping the underground world of organized crime.
Eunice Carter was a trailblazer in every sense of the word. As one of the first Black female prosecutors in the United States, she broke barriers in a profession that was overwhelmingly white and male. Her intelligence, composure, and relentless pursuit of justice make her a compelling and inspiring central figure. The novel does an excellent job highlighting her pivotal role in building a case against organized crime, while also exploring the social and racial obstacles she faced.
In contrast, Polly Adler’s story provides a different lens on power and survival. As a notorious madam in New York City, Polly carved out her own empire in a world dominated by men and mobsters. Rather than portraying her as a caricature, the authors give her depth—showing her ambition, pragmatism, and the complicated choices required to survive and succeed in her world.
The alternating perspectives create a dynamic narrative that moves briskly while deepening the reader’s understanding of both women. Benedict and Murray excel at blending meticulous historical research with emotional resonance. The result is a story that feels both educational and deeply human.
Ultimately, A Pair of Aces is about women who refused to be sidelined—women who understood power, wielded it in different ways, and left lasting marks on history. It’s an engaging, empowering read that shines a well-deserved spotlight on a groundbreaking civil rights figure while also exploring the moral gray areas of ambition and survival.
A compelling and illuminating work of historical fiction.
Eunice Carter was a trailblazer in every sense of the word. As one of the first Black female prosecutors in the United States, she broke barriers in a profession that was overwhelmingly white and male. Her intelligence, composure, and relentless pursuit of justice make her a compelling and inspiring central figure. The novel does an excellent job highlighting her pivotal role in building a case against organized crime, while also exploring the social and racial obstacles she faced.
In contrast, Polly Adler’s story provides a different lens on power and survival. As a notorious madam in New York City, Polly carved out her own empire in a world dominated by men and mobsters. Rather than portraying her as a caricature, the authors give her depth—showing her ambition, pragmatism, and the complicated choices required to survive and succeed in her world.
The alternating perspectives create a dynamic narrative that moves briskly while deepening the reader’s understanding of both women. Benedict and Murray excel at blending meticulous historical research with emotional resonance. The result is a story that feels both educational and deeply human.
Ultimately, A Pair of Aces is about women who refused to be sidelined—women who understood power, wielded it in different ways, and left lasting marks on history. It’s an engaging, empowering read that shines a well-deserved spotlight on a groundbreaking civil rights figure while also exploring the moral gray areas of ambition and survival.
A compelling and illuminating work of historical fiction.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
“A Pair of Aces” was a paradox. It was a hard read because the writing was so exquisite and intoxicating. Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray refused to rush a story that took nearly a century to receive its rightful place in the annals of American history. Their telepathic pens synchronized to carve out a transformative revelation about the two women in New York who were the unheralded cogs in the wheels of justice that brought down the infamous Mob Boss, Lucky Luciano. Benedict and Murray peeled back the layers of the symbiotic relationship between a madam and an assistant state attorney to deliver a gripping and compelling narrative.
Polly Adler was one of the most elite madams in New York. Her background carried the weight of depravity forced upon a young Jewish girl who emigrated alone from Russia. She combatted destitution and desperation with determination. She was determined that her exclusive house of prostitution would be a safe place for her girls. In 1926, Eunice Carter was the only woman, and Negro, among the team handpicked by Special Prosecutor Thomas Dorsey to combat organized crime. Eunice’s background was more privileged than Polly’s, yet racism and misogyny helped fuel her determination to shine as an assistant state attorney. Prostitution, “a sin of morality,” wasn’t on Dewey’s radar. Eunice and Polly knew the proliferation of brothels in marginalized communities, and threats to independent houses, proved him wrong. The mob was violently taking over the women and the profits. Eunice had to tread carefully, professionally and personally, to sell the case to Dewey.
First person point of view masterfully showed the risks, humanity, dangers, and challenges Eunice and Polly faced as they forged an unlikely, clandestine, and brilliant alliance. “A Pair of Aces” was phenomenal.
Thank you, Berkley Books, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Polly Adler was one of the most elite madams in New York. Her background carried the weight of depravity forced upon a young Jewish girl who emigrated alone from Russia. She combatted destitution and desperation with determination. She was determined that her exclusive house of prostitution would be a safe place for her girls. In 1926, Eunice Carter was the only woman, and Negro, among the team handpicked by Special Prosecutor Thomas Dorsey to combat organized crime. Eunice’s background was more privileged than Polly’s, yet racism and misogyny helped fuel her determination to shine as an assistant state attorney. Prostitution, “a sin of morality,” wasn’t on Dewey’s radar. Eunice and Polly knew the proliferation of brothels in marginalized communities, and threats to independent houses, proved him wrong. The mob was violently taking over the women and the profits. Eunice had to tread carefully, professionally and personally, to sell the case to Dewey.
First person point of view masterfully showed the risks, humanity, dangers, and challenges Eunice and Polly faced as they forged an unlikely, clandestine, and brilliant alliance. “A Pair of Aces” was phenomenal.
Thank you, Berkley Books, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
April 18, 2026
Thanks to the Publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read and review this ARC.
A masterfully crafted work of historical fiction, A Pair of Aces brings to life the unlikely alliance between two formidable women in 1930s New York: a powerful madam and a pioneering African American prosecutor. Inspired by real historical figures—Eunice Carter, Manhattan’s first Black female assistant district attorney, and Polly Adler, a well-connected brothel owner—the novel explores how two women from vastly different worlds unite in pursuit of justice against notorious mob boss Lucky Luciano.
Set against the grit and corruption of the era, both women emerge as trailblazers, navigating professions dominated by men while confronting racial, social, and gender barriers. What begins as a tenuous, even improbable partnership evolves into a calculated and courageous collaboration, as they build a groundbreaking legal case by targeting the mob’s involvement in prostitution—an angle others had overlooked.
Told through alternating viewpoints, the narrative offers a compelling dual perspective that deepens the reader’s understanding of each woman’s personal sacrifices, motivations, and risks. The story unfolds over several years, balancing courtroom strategy with the emotional weight of their lives outside the case—family pressures, societal prejudice, and the ever-present danger of crossing powerful men. This structure creates a steady momentum that pulls the reader forward, making it difficult not to race toward the outcome.
Ultimately, A Pair of Aces is more than a crime story—it is a tribute to overlooked women who shaped history from the margins. With richly drawn characters, meticulous historical detail, and a narrative driven by resilience and justice, the novel immerses readers in a gripping tale of courage, ingenuity, and the power of an unlikely alliance.
A masterfully crafted work of historical fiction, A Pair of Aces brings to life the unlikely alliance between two formidable women in 1930s New York: a powerful madam and a pioneering African American prosecutor. Inspired by real historical figures—Eunice Carter, Manhattan’s first Black female assistant district attorney, and Polly Adler, a well-connected brothel owner—the novel explores how two women from vastly different worlds unite in pursuit of justice against notorious mob boss Lucky Luciano.
Set against the grit and corruption of the era, both women emerge as trailblazers, navigating professions dominated by men while confronting racial, social, and gender barriers. What begins as a tenuous, even improbable partnership evolves into a calculated and courageous collaboration, as they build a groundbreaking legal case by targeting the mob’s involvement in prostitution—an angle others had overlooked.
Told through alternating viewpoints, the narrative offers a compelling dual perspective that deepens the reader’s understanding of each woman’s personal sacrifices, motivations, and risks. The story unfolds over several years, balancing courtroom strategy with the emotional weight of their lives outside the case—family pressures, societal prejudice, and the ever-present danger of crossing powerful men. This structure creates a steady momentum that pulls the reader forward, making it difficult not to race toward the outcome.
Ultimately, A Pair of Aces is more than a crime story—it is a tribute to overlooked women who shaped history from the margins. With richly drawn characters, meticulous historical detail, and a narrative driven by resilience and justice, the novel immerses readers in a gripping tale of courage, ingenuity, and the power of an unlikely alliance.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray have done it again. They have taken a story of women who have made an impact not only in their timeline but those that come after and woven into a book of truths and fiction that just captures your attention from the start. There is Eunice Carter who was not only an Assistant District Attorney for the City of New York, she just happened to also be the first black female prosecutor in Manhattan itself during the times of prohibition. On the other side is Polly Adler, she hasn’t had an easy life but she has overcome it through hard work and long hours, now her brothel business is well known and high class. Her clients are top of the line, some known and others don’t want to be know. Then a person steps into both of their lives, Lucky Luciano, He isn’t just anyone, he just happens to be the head of the mob and causing major problems for both ladies. From inserting himself to take over Polly’s business to avoiding being charged with gambling, bootlegging, drug dealing and more by Eunice’s team. Together these ladies might be able to take that one man down, but it is going hard and risky. Polly and Eunice though are willing to take the chance.
This is a book that is very interesting from start to finish. There are a few times when it drags a little bit, but other than that it is good. It isn’t a lightweight book so you need to be prepared for an intense storyline about 2 amazing ladies. That is one thing I love about both of these authors is their ability to bring together women in the past who are unknows and show them as these powerful, no holds back women who beat tremendous odds and times.
Thanks to NetGalley and the authors for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
This is a book that is very interesting from start to finish. There are a few times when it drags a little bit, but other than that it is good. It isn’t a lightweight book so you need to be prepared for an intense storyline about 2 amazing ladies. That is one thing I love about both of these authors is their ability to bring together women in the past who are unknows and show them as these powerful, no holds back women who beat tremendous odds and times.
Thanks to NetGalley and the authors for an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A pair of aces — double threat — two women — beware!
Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray are a double threat in themselves. This is their third historic fiction book, (The Personal Librarian and The First Ladies) and it’s a winner! Does it count that the writing was so convincing that I had a nightmare about Polly’s safety?!
Eunice Carter is a black district attorney for the City of New York, but she’s living in the early 1900s when your skin color superseded your abilities, and not in a good way. Polly Adler is New York City’s top “madam,” and that’s no distinction if you see brothels as a bunch of low life women.
Together these two women never become friends, but they accomplish together what the entire NYC District Attorney’s office could never manage to do — they bring down “Lucky” Luciano!
I’m not crazy about alternating chapters, but here it worked. In some ways it was a reprieve.
Eunice’s marriage is sometimes a bit too good to be true, but it was also a bright spot in some pretty depressing situations.
Polly was more believable. Not that I learned to approve of renting out women, but I did learn that most women didn’t choose this life.
Along with the riveting tension of unscrupulous mobsters on the loose everywhere, Benedict and Murray create believable women with real feelings, real lives and real fears — just like they have done before.
The books hits stores on June 23.
This review was done from an ARC sent by the publisher. It is my opinion alone and is not influenced by the fact that Marie Benedict recently appeared in Lancaster at our library benefit and was a warm, believable woman who simply wants deserving, under-recognized women to get credit for things they have done for everyone — women and men alike!
Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray are a double threat in themselves. This is their third historic fiction book, (The Personal Librarian and The First Ladies) and it’s a winner! Does it count that the writing was so convincing that I had a nightmare about Polly’s safety?!
Eunice Carter is a black district attorney for the City of New York, but she’s living in the early 1900s when your skin color superseded your abilities, and not in a good way. Polly Adler is New York City’s top “madam,” and that’s no distinction if you see brothels as a bunch of low life women.
Together these two women never become friends, but they accomplish together what the entire NYC District Attorney’s office could never manage to do — they bring down “Lucky” Luciano!
I’m not crazy about alternating chapters, but here it worked. In some ways it was a reprieve.
Eunice’s marriage is sometimes a bit too good to be true, but it was also a bright spot in some pretty depressing situations.
Polly was more believable. Not that I learned to approve of renting out women, but I did learn that most women didn’t choose this life.
Along with the riveting tension of unscrupulous mobsters on the loose everywhere, Benedict and Murray create believable women with real feelings, real lives and real fears — just like they have done before.
The books hits stores on June 23.
This review was done from an ARC sent by the publisher. It is my opinion alone and is not influenced by the fact that Marie Benedict recently appeared in Lancaster at our library benefit and was a warm, believable woman who simply wants deserving, under-recognized women to get credit for things they have done for everyone — women and men alike!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Eunice Carter is the only woman on a special team of prosecutors in 1930’s New York City. Eunice is fighting for her spot on the team and in the courtroom. Polly Adler is a well-known NYC madam trying to protect her girls. These two women, one black and one a Jewish immigrant from Russia, come together with the common goal of putting mob boss Lucky Luciano behind bars. It is an unlikely, but formidable alliance. This historical fiction story follows these two very different women working together towards one goal.
Review:
The story is told from two POVS, alternating narration between Eunice and Polly. Eunice is the first black female prosecutor in the US. She fights the prejudices of a white male dominated legal system in 1930’s NYC. Polly became a madam to survive but fights for the proper treatment and safety of her girls. The grit and corruption of 1930’s NYC is the setting, and the authors let the reader feel the power and reach of the mob at this time. The story strikes a good balance of courtroom strategy and the personal risks both women take. Polly’s testimony against Lucky was pivotal in the case, and the conviction of Lucky Luciano was a turning point for NYC and was a major milestone for black women. I would have liked to see more of a backstory on both women, but Eunice in particular. Their lives and professions at this time are fascinating, but how did they end up here?
This book will be published in June 2026. Pick up a copy at your local independent bookseller or library. Thank you to Net Galley and Berkley publishing for the opportunity to read this ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review:
The story is told from two POVS, alternating narration between Eunice and Polly. Eunice is the first black female prosecutor in the US. She fights the prejudices of a white male dominated legal system in 1930’s NYC. Polly became a madam to survive but fights for the proper treatment and safety of her girls. The grit and corruption of 1930’s NYC is the setting, and the authors let the reader feel the power and reach of the mob at this time. The story strikes a good balance of courtroom strategy and the personal risks both women take. Polly’s testimony against Lucky was pivotal in the case, and the conviction of Lucky Luciano was a turning point for NYC and was a major milestone for black women. I would have liked to see more of a backstory on both women, but Eunice in particular. Their lives and professions at this time are fascinating, but how did they end up here?
This book will be published in June 2026. Pick up a copy at your local independent bookseller or library. Thank you to Net Galley and Berkley publishing for the opportunity to read this ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A Pair of Aces was a lovely historical fiction centering on two strong women in 1930s New York. Eunice Carter has worked hard and overcome countless barriers as a Black female assistant district attorney, and Polly Adler is a Jewish Russian immigrant who became one of the most popular madams in New York City.
Their circumstances cross when “Lucky” Luciano, a notorious gang leader, and his crime syndicate start rising to power in New York, more dangerous than their predecessors. The two vastly different women team up to bring down Lucky. Their relationship begins secretive and tense, while graduating to a reluctant admiration for one another.
This novel spans a couple of years and they gather intel on Lucky’s illegal works and a trial is set in motion. In the meantime, Carter is receiving death threats due to her work, and is worried about her son and state of her marriage. Meanwhile, Adler is worried not only about her own safety and business, but about the safety of the girls she’s come to care for and love and for the opinions of her family that don’t know her true business.
In this stunning novel of unlikely heroes (two often overlooked and underestimated women), they play significant and incomparable roles in this dangerous business. A Pair of Aces is a strong and elegant historical fiction. While I greatly appreciated the sentiment and our characters, I found the pacing to be quite slow and the subplots to not be fully fleshed.
But I still really appreciated this novel and its unique insight into this time period and the struggles that women of different races and ethnic backgrounds face. Thank you NetGalley for this ARC!
Their circumstances cross when “Lucky” Luciano, a notorious gang leader, and his crime syndicate start rising to power in New York, more dangerous than their predecessors. The two vastly different women team up to bring down Lucky. Their relationship begins secretive and tense, while graduating to a reluctant admiration for one another.
This novel spans a couple of years and they gather intel on Lucky’s illegal works and a trial is set in motion. In the meantime, Carter is receiving death threats due to her work, and is worried about her son and state of her marriage. Meanwhile, Adler is worried not only about her own safety and business, but about the safety of the girls she’s come to care for and love and for the opinions of her family that don’t know her true business.
In this stunning novel of unlikely heroes (two often overlooked and underestimated women), they play significant and incomparable roles in this dangerous business. A Pair of Aces is a strong and elegant historical fiction. While I greatly appreciated the sentiment and our characters, I found the pacing to be quite slow and the subplots to not be fully fleshed.
But I still really appreciated this novel and its unique insight into this time period and the struggles that women of different races and ethnic backgrounds face. Thank you NetGalley for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a wonderful story of two exceptional women from different walks of life who work together to help get a conviction for Lucky Luciano. Polly Adler is a Jewish immigrant who had been put on a boat bound for America at 12 to help support her family. This leads to a series of traumas, but Polly fights back and becomes one a of the top madams in NYC. Eunice Carter is one of the first black women to get a law degree and is on the mob prosecution team the DA has put together, though he apparently wants little of substance from her. Lucky Luciano has tried to take over prostitution in NYC, which impacts Polly's business and her employees. Eunice thinks that prostitution is the best way to get a criminal conviction, even though the DA looks down on it as just vice. These women work with each other very cautiously to help their own careers and the city, and to help the prostitutes themselves. The book does a good job of explaining how these women get into the job and how they do or don't survive it in this time period. I appreciate the fact that the primary emphasis was on the women trying to survive under difficult circumstances and that the antics of the gangsters took a back seat, unlike the movies and TV shows about this time period in America. There are some nice subplots about how Eunice's and Polly's careers affect their relationships with their families and partners and how hard it is to choose yourself when the culture is telling you not to. This was a very enjoyable read.
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