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Ink and Intrigue at Ivy Tree Inn (Ariadne Winter Mystery Series) by Ellen Butler

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Ink and Intrigue at Ivy Tree Inn (Ariadne Winter Mystery Series) by Ellen Butler
Hosted by Itsy Bitsy Book Bits
Genre – Cozy Mystery
Page Count – 312
Cover Designer – VISIONS
Stumbling across a dead body could be the making … or breaking of an aspiring reporter.
In the midst of 1958, when the workforce is predominantly male, societal norms dictate women should be compliant, fashionable housewives. To Ariadne Winter, the sole tradition she aims to embrace is that of being fashionable. Amidst the ambiance of Ivy Tree Inn, where she’s been dispatched as a writer for Ladies’ Lifestyle Magazine, her focus wavers as she grapples with an interview assignment concerning a Hollywood starlet on the cusp of royal matrimony—an event hailed as the “Wedding of the Century.” While Ariadne dutifully attends to her task, her heart yearns for the pursuit of her collegiate ambition: to be an investigative reporter for a renowned newspaper.
However, fate intervenes when she discovers a dead body and recognizes the opportunity it presents to write her way into the role she desires. Yet, as Ariadne delves deeper into the lives of the inn’s inhabitants, she uncovers a labyrinth of intertwined relationships and long-buried secrets among guests and staff alike, yielding a plethora of suspects. With a murderer on the loose, her magazine deadline looming, and the inn cordoned off by authorities, Ariadne faces a race against time to untangle the web of deceit and solve the murder before she loses more than just her job.

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Ellen Butler is the international bestselling author of the Karina Cardinal mystery series. Her experiences working on Capitol Hill and at a medical association in Washington, D.C. inspired the mystery-action series. Book critics call the Karina Cardinal mysteries, “intelligent escapism” and “unputdownable adventures that will take readers on an electrifying yet light-hearted and humorous journey.” Butler is also the author of the award-winning historical suspense novel, The Brass Compass. The Brass Compass has won multiple awards for historical fiction including: a Speak Up Talk Radio Firebird Book Award, Indie Reader Discovery Award, Readers’ Favorite Silver Medal. The second book in the duology, Operation Blackbird: A Cold War Spy Novel, is inspired by true events, and won a Next Generation Indie Book Award gold medal for historical fiction. Reviewers are calling it “riveting,” and, “a thrilling adventure.”

Author Interview with Ellen Butler

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~ ♦ ~ ♦ ~ ♦ ~ ♦ ~ PREORDER ~ ♦ ~ ♦ ~ ♦ ~ ♦ ~ Ink and Intrigue at Ivy Tree Inn (Ariadne Winter Mystery Series) by Ellen Butler

~ ♦ ~ ♦ ~ ♦ ~ ♦ ~ PREORDER ~ ♦ ~ ♦ ~ ♦ ~ ♦ ~
Ink and Intrigue at Ivy Tree Inn (Ariadne Winter Mystery Series) by Ellen Butler
Hosted by Itsy Bitsy Book Bits
Genre – Cozy Mystery
Page Count – 312
Cover Designer – VISIONS
Stumbling across a dead body could be the making … or breaking of an aspiring reporter.
In the midst of 1958, when the workforce is predominantly male, societal norms dictate women should be compliant, fashionable housewives. To Ariadne Winter, the sole tradition she aims to embrace is that of being fashionable. Amidst the ambiance of Ivy Tree Inn, where she’s been dispatched as a writer for Ladies’ Lifestyle Magazine, her focus wavers as she grapples with an interview assignment concerning a Hollywood starlet on the cusp of royal matrimony—an event hailed as the “Wedding of the Century.” While Ariadne dutifully attends to her task, her heart yearns for the pursuit of her collegiate ambition: to be an investigative reporter for a renowned newspaper.
However, fate intervenes when she discovers a dead body and recognizes the opportunity it presents to write her way into the role she desires. Yet, as Ariadne delves deeper into the lives of the inn’s inhabitants, she uncovers a labyrinth of intertwined relationships and long-buried secrets among guests and staff alike, yielding a plethora of suspects. With a murderer on the loose, her magazine deadline looming, and the inn cordoned off by authorities, Ariadne faces a race against time to untangle the web of deceit and solve the murder before she loses more than just her job.

WEBSITE ~ FACEBOOK ~ TWITTER ~ INSTAGRAM  ~ GOODREADS ~ BOOKBUB ~ AMAZON ~

 ~WEBSITE ~ FACEBOOK ~ TWITTER ~ PINTEREST ~ YOUTUBE ~ INSTAGRAMFACEBOOK GROUP ~ TIKTOK ~

Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) by Ellen Butler – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/177554240-spectral-revelations” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1694915043l/177554240._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/177554240-spectral-revelations”>Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7377203.Ellen_Butler”>Ellen Butler</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6015604139″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
I sure hope we get more adventures from Ms. Cardinal, but as I write this review this is the last book of the series. In this one it took an interesting paranormal turn. Karina’s aunt Vera has gone missing and Karina is on the case. With the exception that it is out of character for her aunt to just disappear and leave behind her cat without a word, nothing seems out of place. When Karina comes across a Civil War Era ghost trashing her aunt’s study she thinks it’s just throwing a tantrum. That is until she discovers clues in how the thrashing happen. The cops have everything wrong according to what she is being shown, but how will she convince them of such things? Will she be able to bring Vera back alive? These books were too good to put down. Each one could be read as a standalone if you wanted, but I much preferred reading them in order. If mystery thrillers are your cup of tea any of these would be great to read.
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Pharaoh’s Forgery (Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 4) by Ellen Butler – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54111417-pharaoh-s-forgery” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Pharaoh’s Forgery: Karina Goes on Vacation (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 4)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1592277233l/54111417._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54111417-pharaoh-s-forgery”>Pharaoh’s Forgery: Karina Goes on Vacation</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7377203.Ellen_Butler”>Ellen Butler</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6015590950″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Karina and her crew are back for yet a other adventure. This books steps away from what we have come to know, her adventures in the USA and life on Capitol Hill. We have officially gone international! Karina wants a fund girls getaway to Mexico but Jillian’s accident throws a wrench in those plans. Her fellow lobbyist, Rodrigo, ends up going with her as he too deserves to have fun and relax. Karina is not just there for fun and relaxation, she is also there for some work. She had a package that she promised to deliver to Mrs. Thundermuffin ( this is an awesome name! ). She doesn’t know what it is but she let’s her curiosity get the best of her and she takes a peek. As we know, this causes Karina and her friend to become targets. How will she get out of this mess? So far I have enjoyed all of these books. They are a bit fast paced but fun. If you enjoy mystery thrillers then do look into reading these books. It’s a great series to get lost in.
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Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/51923583-diamonds-deception” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery, #3)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1566207198l/51923583._SX98_SY160_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/51923583-diamonds-deception”>Diamonds & Deception</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7377203.Ellen_Butler”>Ellen Butler</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6015576068″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Karina is back and this time she has a few friends along. The romance that was budding with the FBI agent, Mike Finnigan, has ended and and she is living up the single life. True to style she gets herself into another scrape, but she is adamant that she will not be calling Mike to save her. She’s no damsel in distress but she may not have a choice. A friend of sister Jillian has been dropping money that she shouldn’t have on the salary of a teacher. After being accused of theft and having some loose diamonds fall out of her purse she sure does look guilty. It’s now up to Karina, Jillian and Silverthorne Security to find out whonl set up Jillians friend. The only problem is they have dug too deep this time. She won’t be able to pull herself out of this hole without help. Will Mike be willing to help her or is he still too upset over the break up? These books keep getting better as they go. I love the plots and how they characters have continued to develope with each book. I’m looking forward to the next adventure.
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Fatal Legislation: A Novel: Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 2 by Ellen Butler – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/41956272-fatal-legislation” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Fatal Legislation (Karina Cardinal Mystery #2)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1537503915l/41956272._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/41956272-fatal-legislation”>Fatal Legislation</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7377203.Ellen_Butler”>Ellen Butler</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6015559426″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Karina Cardinal is back for another mystery. This time she was in the middle if a very heated discussion with a senator about her latest health care initiative, which he killed. After much back and forth she is looking upon the Senator, dead at her feet. What happened? She wakes up in her cold apartment, but doesn’t remember whether or not she closed her back door. She also has a new love interest, FBI agent Mike Finnigan. He brings news to her that she is a suspect in the case of Senator Harper’s demise. There are any number of people that could have wanted to harm him, but who did it? She feels that she is going from person of interest to suspect real quick so she starts her own investigation. Will she find the culprit before she can’t save herself?
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Isabella’s Painting: A Notorious Art Heist Mystery (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 1) by Ellen Butler – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39197711-isabella-s-painting” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Isabella’s Painting (Karina Cardinal Mystery #1)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1520913940l/39197711._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39197711-isabella-s-painting”>Isabella’s Painting</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7377203.Ellen_Butler”>Ellen Butler</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6015540690″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Karina Cardinal is a very successful lawyer and lobbyist on Capitol Hill. One day she had a long day and just wanted to relax with her boyfriend, Patrick Dunne. The couple is invited to his parents annual holiday bash even though Karina was tired and had achy feet. In hopes of finding a place to rest her weary feet she interrupts the host, Martin Dunne, and a guest and they appear to be hiding something. What was the object that they were being so secretive about? Her curiosity gets the better of her and she goes sleuthing on the internet once she returns home. She feels that she has found the item, a missing painting. She runs into an old friend who works for the FBI, Mike Finnigan. Can he help her? This was a fasr paced but enjoyable book. It was a good start to a series. I’m looking forward to book two.
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Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) by Ellen Butler – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6)Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Spectral Revelations is Book Six in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series. It is a cozy mystery with drama, danger, ghosts, secrets, lies, greed, and corruption. In her most recent adventure Karina finds herself trying to solve the mystery surrounding the disappearance of her aunt. Uncertain if her aunt has disappeared on her accord or if something bad happened Karina delves into the mystery headfirst to see what happened. When she goes to her aunt’s home, she finds a mischievous ghost that seems to be wreaking havoc in her aunt’s home. At first Karina brushes off the ghost’s behaviour but soon realizes that he is leaving her clues to help solve her aunt’s disappearance. As usual Karina learns more than she bargained for when she uncovers secrets, lies, and corruption. Another great read in this amazing series. The author has a way of pulling you into the story and fully immersing you in the mystery until the very end. The characters are unique, quirky, funny, and entertaining. I absolutely loved the addition of the paranormal element and Karina’s ghostly crime solver.

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Swindler’s Revenge (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 5) by Ellen Butler – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Swindler's RevengeSwindler’s Revenge by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Swindler’s Revenge is Book Five in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series. Karina’s newest adventure finds her single after her and her FBI boyfriend Mike broke up. Now he is in a heap of trouble after being accused of taking a large bribe and running away with 1.2 million dollars. On the run as a wanted fugitive only adds to making him look guilty. As his ex-girlfriend, Karina is also someone of interest to the FBI. Although Mike is her ex, Karina does not believe for a second that he is guilty of taking the bribe. It seems that someone dangerous is determined to frame Mike and Karina is equally determined to clear Mike’s name and get to the bottom of who is responsible. The situation becomes intense as Karina delves into the case with the help of some friends. This book had danger, drama, mystery, tension, action, suspense, witty banter, and a bit of romance. I love how feisty, determined, strong, and independent Karina is. Bring on Book Number Six!

View all my reviews@tarab

Pharoah’s Forgery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 4) by Ellen Butler – Review by

Pharaoh's Forgery: Karina Goes on Vacation (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 4)Pharaoh’s Forgery: Karina Goes on Vacation by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Pharoah’s Forgery is Book Four in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series. It is a cozy mystery following the adventures of Karina Cardinal. In her latest adventure she finds herself in Mexico where she is hoping to relax and soak up the sun. However, the mystery package she has been asked to bring by her neighbor. The seemingly innocent package turns out to be a magnet for all sorts of criminal elements which leads Karina into a world of danger. Karina and her friend Rodrigo find themselves facing certain death and it could mean the end for them both. This book had action, suspense, mystery, drama, danger, suspense, humor, crooks, killers, swindlers, and an ancient Egyptian death mask. The characters are unique, quirky, lovable, and feisty. Bring on Book Five!

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Diamonds and Deception (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery, #3)Diamonds & Deception by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Diamonds and Deception is Book Three in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series. It is a cozy mystery with action, adventure, danger, mystery, suspense, secrets, lies, and a diamond heist. Karina again finds herself in the middle of a mystery when her sister calls her asking for help. Their friend has been accused of stealing some diamonds and Karina and her sister are determined to clear her name. As the two sisters delve into the case, they come face to face with criminal elements that would have been better off left alone. The tension and suspense escalate as the secrets and lies are revealed. The storyline is intriguing and really draws you in because it has been so well written and clearly well researched. The character of Karina is smart, strong, feisty, and determined. I look forward to reading Book Four.

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Fatal Legislation (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 2) by Ellen Butler – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Fatal Legislation (Karina Cardinal Mystery #2)Fatal Legislation by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fatal Legislation is Book Two in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series. This is a cozy mystery set in the world of politics. It has action, adventure, murder, drama, danger, intrigue, suspense, and romance. Karina is off sleuthing once again as she tries to solve the murder of a senator. A bit of a tricky situation for her as she is also a person of interest in the case. She also has a budding relationship with her old college friend Mike, whom she became reunited with in Book One. Karina is determined to clear her name and delves deep into the case digging for clues as to who the real murderer is. The story takes some twists and turns as the tension builds. A great storyline with admirable characters. Karin is smart, class, courageous, and feisty. I look forward to book three.

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Isabella’s Painting (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 1) by Ellen Butler – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Isabella's Painting (Karina Cardinal Mystery #1)Isabella’s Painting by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Isabella’s Painting is Book One in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series. This book is cozy mystery that centers around the character of Karina Cardinal. Karina is a lawyer and lobbyist working on Capitol Hill. who fancies herself as an amateur sleuth in her spare time. When she goes to a fancy dinner party at the home of her boyfriend’s wealthy parents, she spots something that seems a bit odd. In her boyfriend’s father’s library, she sees what looks like the stolen masterpiece that had been robbed from a museum. Having only caught a glimpse of the painting before it disappeared behind a secret hidden panel Karina is uncertain if this is indeed the stolen masterpiece worth millions of dollars. She wants to investigate farther but is conflicted because not only is this her boyfriend’s wealthy father, but anyone that encounters the painting dies a horrible death. With her every move being monitored, Karina is unsure what to do. A wonderfully written story with an intriguing storyline based on a true event. The character of Karina is smart, strong, independent, determined, and feisty. I look forward to reading book number two.

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Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3) by Rob Bates – Review by Shelly Kittell

Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3)Slay It With a Diamond by Rob Bates
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story pulled me right in. Mimi gets pulled into a mystery when her friend, Roz, sells a “cursed” diamond to her dad, Max. I couldn’t help but be pulled in by the “human spam” telling Mimi about the men following Roz that then followed Mimi, etc. It was like a domino chain falling over. The mystery started and you couldn’t stop. You had to follow it to the end. Thankfully, Michael was there to help her because she was way in over her head at times. I came into the series here at book three and I will be going back to book one. You can read as a stand alone. The characters are awesome. They are totally relatable. The story is very engaging. It’s a fun cozy as you solve the mystery.

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Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) by Ellen Butler – Review by Christine Baranek

Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6)Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Spectral Revelations
By: Ellen Butler

Holy cow! This Karina Cardinal mystery is the newest and just when I thought I couldn’t love the character and series any more Ellen Butler delivers with a book that blows the others out of the water. This book has some supernatural elements which is a new element to the series. I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about this addition, but in true Karina Cardinal fashion it fit right in with the amazing cast of characters that already existed. This is also added to what I have come to expect from Karina Cardinal – a mystery that keeps me guessing from the very start, suspense, drama, amazing dialogue and characters that add to the depth of the plot.
This book is absolutely fantastic. When Karina’s aunt goes missing – she has no choice but to really investigate what has happened. Yet, as with all of the previous books, Karina has bitten off more than she chewed. And she discovers that finding her aunt is going to really involve more than she ever expected.
Once again, I truly believe that each of these books would function as a standalone, however, I truly recommend reading all of them. There is some character overlap and also there are so very many amazing mysteries to be read. Definitely don’t miss out on this one!

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Swindler’s Revenge (Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 5) by Ellen Butler – Review by Christine Baranek

Swindler's RevengeSwindler’s Revenge by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Swindler’s Revenge
By: Ellen Butler

I have been a fan of every last one of the Karina Cardinal mysteries. But let me tell you that this book has definitely become one of my favorites. It takes the mystery, suspense, and political intrigue that I have come to expect and really ups it by making it hit close to home for Karina. This time its the FBI who are involved, but she is being accused of harboring a fugitive. Also known as her ex-boyfriend. Who she is definitely not hiding, but who also is accused of taking off with over a million dollars. However, this doesn’t fit anything she knows about her ex-boyfriend. So either, she didn’t know him like she thought she did, he has lost his mind or there is something else going on. Of course, Karina needs to begin to start this out for herself because not only is her name attached, but also none of this is making any sense. So she jumps head first into another case that kept me reading long into the night. I cannot recommend this or the other Karina Cardinal books enough. I love every page and the characters are all so interesting and really add so much depth to the plot – they keep the plot moving. Definitely pick up this book!

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Pharaoh’s Forgery (Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 4) by Ellen Butler – Review by Christine Baranek

Pharaoh's Forgery: Karina Goes on Vacation (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 4)Pharaoh’s Forgery: Karina Goes on Vacation by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Pharoah’s Forgery
By: Ellen Butler

I truly feel that each and every Karina Cardinal book gets better than the last. I have found that she has become one of my favorite main characters. She is strong and independent and all in all just a really relatable character. In this book, the setting is moved away from Washington, DC and the United States. This move makes the focus of the book shift – previously each of these book had to do with U.S. government and politics, however, now this book is much more focused on ancient things. This gives the book a refreshing makeover that really made the experience even better. This book gives us better looks at characters that were mentioned in previous books but really gives us a good feel for them – like Mrs. Thundermuffin and Rodrigo. It was really great to get to know these characters in a different light.

The Karina Cardinal Series is really an excellent mystery series that is filled with suspense and twists and turns. Each book is a standalone, however, I highly suggest reading each one, as it is a fantastic read but also because there is some character crossover between books. I definitely suggest picking this one up!

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Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Christine Baranek

Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery, #3)Diamonds & Deception by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Diamonds and Deception
By: Ellen Butler

This is the third book in the Karina Cardinal Mystery story. Although it is the third book in the series I think it is important to note that it can definitely function as a standalone. You could miss the earlier books and not be lost at all. I do recommend reading them all, just because each and everyone that I have read so far have been fantastic reads that I highly recommend. It contains all of my favorite elements in a mystery – drama, danger, action, suspense.
Katrina Cardinal is such a great character. She is multi-layered and helps to drive the plot a rate that had me not wanting to walk away from my book. She is a lawyer who is now a lobbyist in Washington D.C. This gives her all the qualities you would expect – especially for the lead character in a mystery series – she’s smart, independent and hard working. Her sister reaches out to her to help her with a friend. And this leads them both wondering what they have been pulled into as nothing is as they originally thought.
This book is absolutely fantastic. I love the characters and how fast paced the plot is. This mystery is definitely original. I cannot wait to read more from Karina Karina Cardinal. Definitely pick this book up!

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Fatal Legislation: A Novel: Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 2 by Ellen Butler – Review by Christine Baranek

Fatal Legislation (Karina Cardinal Mystery #2)Fatal Legislation by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fatal Legislation
By: Ellen Butler

This is the second book in the Karina Cardinal Mystery Series. This is a fantastic political mystery the features action, suspense, drama and of course, an FBI investigation. This book is a complete page turner that definitely is intense at parts and really sucked me in.
Karina Cardinal is a lawyer who is not working as a lobbyist. She has a new boyfriend who is also an FBI agent. Karina is in the wrong place and the wrong time and ends up being a a person of interest in a murder investigation. Karina is determined to not only prove her innocence but also find out what is going on. She doesn’t want to become the next victim.
These characters are amazingly well written – they have flaws and depth to them. They really seem like 3 dimensional people, not just characters on a page. And the story is told with such craftsmanship. As much as the story kept me on the edge of my seat – I wanted to solve the mystery before Karina did – I also didn’t want it to end. I definitely recommend reading this book – it will not disappoint!

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Isabella’s Painting: A Notorious Art Heist Mystery (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 1) by Ellen Butler – Review by Christine Baranek

Isabella's Painting (Karina Cardinal Mystery #1)Isabella’s Painting by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Isabella’s Painting
By: Ellen Butler

This is a fantastic fast paced mystery. This book introduces us to Karina Cardinal who is just at the wrong place at the right time to put her in the middle of a mystery. Karina is a fantastically well written character who drives the plot (which happens to be based on a real life mystery). This story sucked me in from the first page and it really delivered. This author gives enough detail to make you feel like you are there but not so much that it bogs down the plot of the story.
I definitely recommend this story and I cannot wait to read more by Ellen Butler.

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Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) by Ellen Butler – Review by Sara King

Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6)Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was the first for me both from this series as well as by this author, but it won’t be the last. The sixth in the series, this book can be read as a stand alone but if I had to guess it would be even better read in order if for no other reason than the character development you gain as the series develops.

I found the writing to be well developed, humorous , laugh out loud at moments , easy – to – read , and not wanting to put to book down. I can not wait for the next book book by Butler. But while I am waiting, I will be going back to read the rest of the series.

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Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) by Ellen Butler – Review by Elisha Johnson

Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6)Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery by Ellen Butler- 5 out of 5 stars

This is my first time reading this authors work and I just have to say that it definitely will not be the last. The character development was great throughout the book. Suspense, mystery, unpredictability, drama, and so much more! This book had it all. I highly recommend reading this book and all of the others in this thrilling series.

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Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) by Ellen Butler – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6)Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As a fan of this series I was looking forward to catching up with our heroine Karina Cardinal, who now feels like an old friend. As usual I was hooked from page one by this gripping mystery adventure which kept me happily turning the pages. Karina’s Aunt Vera has disappeared having lied to her employer about the reason for her absence and abandoning her beloved cat Nightshade, which she would never do. As this is out of character for Vera, Karina is convinced that her Aunt is in trouble, however nothing suspicious is found when she searches her house, other than a ghost! A mischievous Civil War ghost seems to be living in Vera’s house and he keeps trashing her office, Karina realises that he’s actually helping by revealing key evidence. As the clues aren’t adding up for Karina she calls on her sister Jillian and boyfriend Rick Donovan to help. Meanwhile, the cops seem to be following faulty leads which could see Vera being arrested, but Karina just wants to find her Aunt alive. This cozy mystery has an exciting storyline, quirky characters, plenty of drama and mystery as well as a paranormal twist, all of which kept me gripped throughout. The setting and characters are brought vividly to life by the descriptive narrative and I felt immersed in the story. This series seems to get better with each book, and I look forward to being back with Karina again soon!

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Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) by Ellen Butler – Review by Kerry Carr

Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6)Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery by Ellen Butler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the 6th story in the Karina Cardinal Mystery series. This book can be read as a standalone however I do recommend reading them all so you get a complete understanding of the characters and can see their growth and development in each story.
This is a cosy paranormal mystery which I loved. It is fast paced and full of secrets that Karina has to discover and solve in order to figure out the case. There as so many twists and turns that the reader is kept guessing all the way through.

When Karina’s Aunt Vera goes missing there is a question over whether this was a genuine disappearance or just Aunt Vera wanting to disappear for a while. After Karina hears about her Aunts disappearance she has a feeling she’s in trouble. After all Karina seems to attract nothing but trouble recently. As she starts her search she gets some help from a unexpected being who holds some of the clues to her aunts disappearance. However it will take all of Karine’s sleuthing skills to be able to unravel the clues as they are twisted and distorted with lies and corruption. Can she solve this case in time? Is Aunt Vera really in danger or just hiding from something?

One things for sure with Karine’s strength and determined character she won’t let anyone stop her from getting to the bottom of this mystery.

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Spectral Revelations ( The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) by Ellen Butler – Review by Jules Herbert

Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6)Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I just have to start by saying I love this talented author and her wonderful writing style, creative storylines and her ability to keep her readers totally captivated and engaged from start to finish. Karina is a wonderful character who I just couldn’t help falling for. Trouble always seems to find her and when her aunt suspiciously disappears she simply has to try to uncover what happened. The twists and turns that follow will keep you hooked for sure!
This is the 6th book in this fantastic series and while it can absolutely be read as a standalone and thoroughly enjoyed I recommend reading the entire series right from the start to enhance your reading experience. I know I am definitely going back to the start to enjoy it as a whole.

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Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) by Ellen Butler – Review by Kerry Baker

Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6)Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is another brilliant book within this series and I was so excited to get my hands on the newest book. I loved that it was so easy to reconnect with the main character. I was pulled straight into this story and could not put it down. I wanted to see how the mystery would unravel and where the story would lead us.
This author always knows how to create a good story, and I think this one is easily one of the best. The fact that we are six books into this and it is still as good as when it first started is testament to how amazing this author is. I enjoyed every single part of this book and I will be re-reading the whole series after this.

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Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) by Ellen Butler – Review by Tausha Treadway

Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6)Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Spectral revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) By Ellen Butler. I love this series and was so excited to see there was another book in the series. It can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend reading them in order to get a better feel of the characters. They are really good paranormal mysteries. Karina and her friends are back with another mystery, Karina’s Aunt Vera has disappeared and her mom insists they investigate. Karina is a attorney who has now become a lobbyist. She always seems to run into trouble everywhere she goes so when her Aunt Vera goes missing she is of course going to investigate. Karina and her boyfriend Rick and the gang all help her figure out if Aunt Vera is in trouble or if she has run away. They find all kinds of corruption, greed and schemes galore! Will they be able to find Aunt Vera before its too late? I love this series so much and hope there is another book.

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Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) by Ellen Butler – Review by Toni Sellers

Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6)Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery by Ellen Butler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is book six in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries series. You could definitely read this as a standalone, but I recommend that you read them all in order. Because not only are they just that good but it will help you keep up with character development. Just in time for Halloween, a light fun paranormal mystery with some drama, suspense, ghosts, action and some great humor. Wonderfully written each book just gets better and better.

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Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) by Ellen Butler – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6)Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the sixth book in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries series. The books can be read as standalones, but I would recommend reading them in order to understand the characters better.
This is once again a fun mystery with great characters which sucked me in so well! The author’s writing style flowed well and was easy to follow while the plot was unique, fun and engaging. We even get a bit of spook in perfect timing to read for Halloween.
The lovable Karina is back, still strong, independent and determined, just some of the many things that make me fall in love with her in every book. As usual, trouble seems to find Karina all too easily; when something isn’t right, she can’t help but investigate. The large group dynamic is different with everyone involved, but still great fun and in a way better as the relationships and interactions are more entertaining.
This one is definitely one of my favourites of the series, and I’m really hoping for more book in the series soon to feed my obsession!

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Swindler’s Revenge (Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 5) by Ellen Butler – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Swindler's RevengeSwindler’s Revenge by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the fifth book in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries series. These books can be read as standalones, but I highly recommend reading them to get a better understand of the characters, their relationships and backgrounds.
As per usual in this series, I was gripped beginning to end. I was immersed in the story, living the adventures alongside Karina as the story progressed. The writing flowed nicely and was easy to follow, increasing the enjoyment for me.
Once again the lovable Karina put herself in harms way to solve the case, especially now her ex is being accused of something she can’t believe. She’s strong and determined and I love that about her.
I adore this series, it’s especially perfect for this time of year, curling up in front of the fire!

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