Fatal Legislation: A Novel: Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 2 by Ellen Butler – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

Fatal Legislation: A Novel: Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 2 by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fatal Legislation is the second book in Ellen Butler’s Karina Cardinal Mystery series. Yet again, Karina ends up being swept up in a mystery that her inquisitive mind won’t let her leave alone.
I like the variety in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries. The first book, Isabella’s Painting, focused on art theft and this book focuses on political assassination. With Karina and other supporting characters to connect the stories, there is a sense of cohesion but the story has a very different feel to it.
Fatal Legislation kept me on my toes. There was always something new coming up – another twist in the story. Whenever Karina starts to piece things together, something changes or comes up. It’s also interesting to see the strain it puts on Mike and Karina’s relationship as he struggles to balance his personal relationship with her and his responsibilities in the investigation.
I wouldn’t normally go for political thrillers, but having met Karina in Isabella’s Painting I was eager to read this and found myself really enjoying it. It gives a fascinating insight into American politics and is suspenseful and enjoyable. For me, it’s a five star read.
The story follows on from Isabella’s Painting, and I would recommend reading that book first (it’s also very good!). That said, Butler does a good job of setting the scene and reminding the reader of anything they need to know so if you’re only really after a political thriller you could come in at this book.

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