This was an incredible read, an absolute page-turner, and thrilling the whole way through. I loved Karina’s background as a Washington DC lawyer turned policy wonk, as well as the way Karina tries to work out what’s happening even as she makes plenty of mistakes. The mystery of the plot kept me going the whole way through, even with the elements of romance and crime. I love art heist fiction generally, but this one really grabbed my attention. I’ll definitely be reading anything else by this author!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Netania Limhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngNetania Lim2020-08-19 10:00:292020-08-19 11:02:54Isabella’s Painting: A Notorious Art Heist Mystery (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 1) by Ellen Butler – Review by Netania Lim
If any day calls for a soothing glass of wine, it’s today.
One moment, Capitol Hill lobbyist Karina Cardinal is having a heated discussion with Senator Harper, who just torpedoed her latest health care legislation initiative. The next, after a cryptic remark, the senator is dead at her feet. Hours later, she’s still so rattled she wakes to a freezing apartment because she forgot to close her back door. Or did she?
When her boyfriend, FBI cybercrimes expert Mike Finnegan, is suddenly reassigned to work a new case, he’s got bad news and worse news. The bad: the senator’s death was no heart attack—it was assassination by a hacker disabling his pacemaker. Worse: Karina’s a “person of interest.”
Certain that status could change to “suspect” at any moment, Karina begins her own back-channel investigation into who could have wanted the senator dead. Of course, in Washington, that means playing politics and following the money trail. A trail that leads to more murders…and possibly leaving the door open for a killer to change her status to “dead.”
Ellen Butler is a bestselling author writing critically acclaimed suspense and award-winning historical fiction. Her experiences working at a medical association in Washington, D.C. inspired the Karina Cardinal series. She is a member of Sister’s in Crime, International Thriller Writers, and the Office of Strategic Services Society.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Fatal-Legislation-Cover-Digital-scaled.jpg1200927itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2020-08-19 00:01:302021-02-15 11:51:45Fatal Legislation: A Novel: Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 2 by Ellen Butler
Isabella’s Painting: A Notorious Art Heist (Karina Cardinal Mysteries #1) by Ellen Butler
This was the first book I’ve read by Butler, but it is not going to be my last. This book had me sitting on the edge of my seat wanting more. I couldn’t put the book down until I was done. I still want more.
Karina is a lawyer and self made mystery solver. She is dating someone who has family money. What happens when she finds something she wasn’t supposed to see? Will her and the boyfriend survive? The quote I choose for Karina is: “No. I’m sure it wasn’t like that. As a matter of fact, I’m positive you put it on to make sure I wasn’t cheating on you. Like your past girlfriends. Is that what it was like?”
Patrick is a boy from money. He doesn’t follow in daddy’s footsteps, but past relationships mess with him. He wants to believe that Karina isn’t cheating, but does the unthinkable. The quote I choose for Patrick is: “I know. Our plans changed, but now that we’re here amidst your family, I simply can’t wait any longer. Karina, my love, will you marry me?”
I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves a good crime, mystery, and romance all rolled together. Butler had really brought these characters to life and I can’t wait for more.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amanda Kimblehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmanda Kimble2020-08-17 12:27:592020-08-17 14:24:28Isabella’s Painting: A Notorious Art Heist (Karina Cardinal Mysteries #1) by Ellen Butler – Review by Amanda Kimble
Isabella’s Painting by Ellen Butler is an amazing mystery book that I thoroughly recommend! I loved this book in its entirety and couldn’t put it down until i had finished it! I was hooked from the blurb, and was very excited to read this book, and I loved it! This is the first book in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series, and my first book by Ellen Butler. I very much look forward to reading more from both this series, and from this very talented author!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Finn Cunninghamhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngFinn Cunningham2020-08-17 09:51:212020-08-17 14:19:51Isabella’s Painting: A Notorious Art Heist Mystery (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 1) by Ellen Butler – Review by Finn Cunningham
This book is historically realistic and the writing captivated me from the very start. The mystery and suspense that takes a hold of this story and the paintings are all fascinating to be a part of as a third eye of the reader. I love a good mystery and a character that’s out to solve said mystery. I’m definitely looking out for the next of this series and where the characters will bring us next!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Faith Jacksonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngFaith Jackson2020-08-14 01:55:572020-08-14 10:59:28Isabella’s Painting: A Notorious Art Heist Mystery (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 1) by Ellen Butler – Review by Faith Jackson
Peeling back layers of lies could save a masterpiece…or reveal a killer.
After a long week lobbying on Capitol Hill, all Karina Cardinal wants to do is chill with Netflix and her boyfriend, Patrick Dunne. Instead, she’s slipping her aching feet into red stilettos for his parents’ annual holiday bash.
When she accidentally interrupts Patrick’s father in his study, her embarrassment is tempered by suspicion that Martin Dunne and his dapper, secretive guest are hiding something. Maybe the painting she barely glimpses right before it disappears behind a secret panel.
An internet search raises her curiosity to full-blown alarm. If she’s right, Martin is in possession of a stolen masterpiece. Infamous because everyone close to it has turned up dead. As in Mafia-style-execution dead.
As she’s chewing over which instinct to follow—back off while she still can, or dig deeper for the truth—she crosses paths with FBI agent Mike Finnegan. An old friend and not-quite flame from her college days. When she looks into his warm, mocha eyes, she’s tempted to tell him everything.
Trouble is, she’s already being watched. And the next move she makes could destroy innocent lives…including her own.
Ellen Butler is a bestselling novelist writing critically acclaimed suspense thrillers, and award-winning romance. Ellen holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration and Policy, and her history includes a long list of writing for dry, but illuminating, professional newsletters and windy papers on public policy. She is a member of International Thriller Writers, Sisters in Crime and the Office of Strategic Services Society. She lives in the Virginia suburbs of Washington, D.C. with her family.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/IPdigitalcover-scaled.jpg1200927itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2020-08-08 13:28:412021-02-15 12:02:45Isabella’s Painting: A Notorious Art Heist Mystery (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 1) by Ellen Butler
Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler
5-stars
Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler was an excellent read. I loved how the author opens up the story at the beginning. I also loved that this novel can be read as a standalone. The storyline was inspiring, mysterious, and fun. It easily flowed from start to finish and kept my attention. I enjoyed the various characters and how much thought went into them. They were realistic and developed well. The various scenes were also descriptive enough to picture myself as a bystander watching the events take place. I was very impressed with this authors writing style and how addicted I was to the book. I highly recommend it.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Madison Degraffenreidhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMadison Degraffenreid2019-11-04 18:23:122019-11-04 20:05:01Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Madison Degraffenreid
I do love strong female leads, and a good mystery is always a winner with me. In Diamonds & Deception by Ellen Butler we get both. This is an excellent little mystery. It is my first Karina Cardinal Mystery Story, but I can tell you it won’t be my last. Although Karina is the star of our show her sister Jillian is every bit in the thick of this as Karina. The dialogue and the interaction between the sisters in this book is spot on., and even better than all of that is the “story within the story”. I always love that. This sweet little mystery is well worth your time.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jonell Collinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJonell Collins2019-10-30 21:32:412019-10-30 22:05:44Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Jonell Collins
Diamonds and Deception by Ellen Butler is book three of the Karina Cardinal Mystery series. This book has a little bit of everything. It’s got danger, mystery, suspense and so much more. This book can be read as a standalone but for the full experience – recurring character introductions and backstories – I encourage you to read the first two books.
Karina is fiercely independent and recently her friend Mike has taken their relationship from friendship to relationship and they seem to have hit a rough patch. Karina is determined not to call Mike for help however she seems to attract trouble. When her sister calls her to help a friend, this time doesn’t seem to be any different. Karina and Jillian find themselves deep in a mystery that leaves them with a lot of questions. Will Karina call Mike for help when trouble inevitably strikes?
This book was enjoyable to read. It has a pretty quick pace and let you wondering what was gong to happen. I recommend it!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angelina Frazzinihttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngelina Frazzini2019-10-29 17:47:462019-10-29 18:24:28Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Angelina Frazzini
Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3)
By: Ellen Butler
5 out of 5 stars
This is the next amazing book in a series I have loved from the first story. It had me on the edge of my seat wondering what will happen next. Karina Cardinal is back. She finds herself helping out a friend of her sister, Jillian. She soon finds herself caught up in a mystery that she was not expecting. Read this book to find out the full story. This mystery will keep you guessing and turning pages. There are many characters in this story. Some of them are helpful to Karina, some have their own agenda and will do anything to make sure their plans succeed, and some make you wonder whose side they are on. The book pulled me into story and I didn’t want to put it down. The author has done a wonderful job in making the characters come alive and the story unforgettable. I would highly recommend reading it.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Laura Furutahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLaura Furuta2019-10-28 15:59:482019-10-28 16:15:46Diamonds and Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) By Ellen Butler – Review by Laura Furuta
I give Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler, 5 stars.
This is one of those series where I forget just how good it is until I pick up the next book. I absolutely love Karina. She is fun, quirky, real, has a big heart and so likeable. I would love to have her as a best friend. This time, she tries to stay out of things but gets pulled in by her sister. You can’t say no family. But she has learned from her past experiences. She asks for help from the guys at Silverthone Security. These guys are great too, I would love to see more about each of them — maybe a book dedicated to them? Karina, her sister, and the security guys try to get to the bottom of things to find who is really guilty and just what is really going on.
Besides the characters, the story itself is so compelling. It begins when Katrina’s sister Jillian attends a fashion show with her coworker. The night ends abruptly when the coworker is accused of stealing diamonds and arrested. Now they have to figure out if she is guilty, not to mention prove it. This would be enough for some mystery/suspense books. But wait, there’s more! They later discover something even more sinister is going on and find themselves thrown right into it. There were a few times I thought the book may soon be over, only to realize there was much more to go. The the author switching gears on us and leading us in a different direction is done so smoothly and so effectively it kept me from putting the book down.
I highly recommend this series and book to those who like real, strong female characters in their whodunnit/suspense books.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erin Wolfhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErin Wolf2019-10-28 10:26:062019-10-28 10:30:13Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Erin Wolf
Diamonds & Deception Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3 By Ellen Butler ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ This is book 3 in the Karina Cardinal series. This book could be read as a standalone, but why?
If you love a great mystery, you will love this story. When Sadira Manon is arrested for stealing diamonds, there are some questions that need answered. Like, why is a school teacher wearing high quality, name brand clothes on a teacher’s salary? Where did she really get her money? Things are not looking favorable for Sadira. So it is time to call Karina, Jilly and Silverthorne Security.
Ellen Butler has done it again! She has written this compelling mystery. Her writing is clear and fast paced. She gives just enough information to keep you intrigued and interested in this book. I love the characters set forth in this suspenseful mystery. I loved being able to follow this series and can’t wait for more. Well done Ellen Butler! Well done!
Diamonds & Deception is the third book in the Karina Cardinal Mystery Series by Ellen Butler. Although this book can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend you read this series in order. You get a great background on the characters if you do. This book like the previous books, hooked my attention from the very first page. I love the humor sprinkled in with the mystery and intrigue. Karina and her sister Jillian dig a little too deep into a friend’s troubles andend up on the wrong side of the mob. Now, Karina must call on Mike to help, but will he be around to answer her call. If you love mystery, adventure, comedy and romance rolled into one this is definitely the read for you.
Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler
Another great mystery. You can read this book as a standalone but it is my suggestion that you start with book one for a better experience and back story of the characters. This book is full of action, suspense, mystery, and of course danger. Karina seems to find trouble and danger around every corner. There are unexpected twists and turns in this story. Karina and Mike aren’t exactly seeing eye to eye these days, so when Karina finds herself in a bind, will she call Mike? Will she be able to get herself and her sister out of danger? To find this out this is a must read. This book will keep you entertained throughout the entire time. I highly recommend this book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Candida Hopperhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCandida Hopper2019-10-26 14:12:122019-10-26 14:53:25Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Candida Hopper
5 Star Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler
Diamonds & Deception is the third book in the Karina Cardinal Mystery Series and even though it can be read as a standalone I do recommend reading this series in order, so you will have a better understanding of the characters . I loved this book, it’s filled with action, drama, danger and suspense. I once again found myself lost in the pages and couldn’t stop reading till the end. What will happen when Karina and her sister Jilly team up to help find out who set up a friend? Karina is forced to call Mike after they have dug to deep. Find out what happens next in this absolute must read I look forward to reading more from this Author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Daughenbaughhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Daughenbaugh2019-10-25 06:34:232019-10-25 08:22:19Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh
A great read about trouble. Karina Cardinal is trying to stay out of trouble after a row with her boyfriend. But life has other ideas when Sadira, a friend of her sisters, is accused of stealing a lot of diamonds from the jewellery sshe works at. Events unravel and Karina finds herself ina search for the truth. Can she uncover the truth? A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Karina cautious but still wanting to help or Jillian as loyal and determined. Great cast of supporting characters like the austere Bernard or the supportive Jessica. I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the fashion catwalk at the start with bright and colourful dresses with sights and sounds as vivid it’s as if you’re actually there. Or the big house later on with the fairy lights and trees and flowers and the wide stairs for a sense of elegance and luxury and beauty. Wonderfully written. I liked the use of suspense with Sadira and the diamonds with details revealed slowly to make you keep reading to find out the truth with Karina. Fast paced action and high stakes made for a captivating read. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sarah Oakeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSarah Oakes2019-10-24 16:40:472019-10-24 17:08:35Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Sarah Oakes
Diamonds & Deception was a great 5 star read and book three in the Karina Cardinal Mystery series.
Karina finds herself pulled into something by her sister.Her sister’s friend is being accused of stealing diamonds. I almost think that danger is Karina’s middle name, with everything that seems to follow her.
Will Karina be able to help figure out who really took the jewels? Will she need extra help?
We get suspense, action, drama and so much more in this great read. There are several twists and turns and some great secondary characters. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what was coming next. There is so much more to this great read, I highly suggest 1-clicking and getting started. This can be read as a standalone but I suggest starting with book one, you can connect with secondary characters better.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Michelle Austinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMichelle Austin2019-10-23 21:39:352019-10-23 21:59:27Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Michelle Austin
Diamonds & Deception is the third book in Ellen Butler’s Karina Cardinal Mystery! You can read the story as a standalone but not having read the first two books you would miss out on knowing more about the recurring characters and backstories … Diamonds & Deception is a great story filled with drama, danger, action, suspense and sisterly ‘I’ve got your back no matter what’! This time the writer has taken inspiration from the increasing gang activity and human trafficking. Karina’s sister Jillian calls her as her friend Sadira needs legal help and neither of them knows the direction that simple thing takes the! The two sisters get drawn down the rabbit hall and of course the trouble comes calling (as it is the case with Karina) and of course her FBI boyfriend Mike is out of town … so, who should Karina reach out for help? Silverthorne Security gang of course! The writer takes us on one heck of a roller coaster ride and I have to say that I like her writing more and more with each of the story I read so I cannot wait for the next one in the series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jana Teppihhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJana Teppih2019-10-23 19:57:162019-10-23 21:55:25Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Jana Teppih
Diamonds & Deception is the third book in Ellen Butler’s gripping Karina Cardinal Mystery series. We’ve had art theft, we’ve had assassination, and now we’re onto jewellery theft. Karina seems to get tangled up in everything! Karina is a lobbyist whose past escapades have built her a network of talented, helpful people who are ready to leap into action when trouble comes. And trouble does always come. She’s resourceful, dedicated and doesn’t take no for an answer. There’s a brilliant scene where she can’t access her apartment as a man (who had the clever idea to get high on a weeknight) thinks there is a dragon in there. She’s tired, wants to go to bed, and so sets the imaginary dragon on him and walks through the door. In this book we get to see a lot of Karina’s sister, Jillian. It’s good to see the supportive relationship between the sisters, how readily they come to each other’s aid. It is Jillian’s friend, Sadira, who is accused of stealing diamonds. What at first seems to be a simple misunderstanding escalates as the sisters learn more about Sadira and come up with more and more questions. Diamonds & Deception is a real page-turner! It’s a great mystery, that keeps you on the edge of your seat. This is an exciting series with plenty of variety and brilliant characters – I would recommend starting at the beginning with Isabella’s Painting to enjoy the story as it unfolds. For me, this is definitely a five star book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Francis O'Sullivanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngFrancis O'Sullivan2019-10-23 15:18:342019-10-23 15:49:43Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Francis O’Sullivan
Diamonds & Deceptions is the third novel in the Karina Cardinal Mystery series by Ellen Butler. This is my third novel by this author.
Karina’s relationship with her college friend Mike is hitting a rough patch. When her sister Jillian calls her asking for help involving her friend Sadira Manon, the two are ina mystery not sure of what the full story is.
Will she call on Mike when she finds trouble again?
I really love these mysteries and I look forward to reading one whenever I see a new one is getting released.
These don’t have to be read in order, though some of the characters are recurring and the progression of Karina’s relationship with Mike, the mysteries are very entertaining.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Moriah Venablehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMoriah Venable2019-10-23 09:53:572019-10-23 10:04:24Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Moriah Venable
This is a great mystery story that keeps you gripped from page one.
Karina’s middle name is trouble as she always seems to find herself caught in some form of trouble.
In this story she gets dragged into a situation with her sister Jillian and her friend Sadira. Sadira is spending money like ita going out of fashion. Her car is expensive, her wardrobe is full of designer clothes and shoes and her house is expensive. Jillian wonders how she can afford to live this way on the teachers salary they earn and her wage from the jewellary store she works at.
One day Sadira calls into the store for her paycheck when she is accused of stealing some diamonds from the store. Sadira protests her innocence until her bag falls and a missing diamond lands at her feet.
Is she being set up or does this explain where all her money is coming from.
Karina and Jillian join forces with Silverthorne security to sort out this mess. Who would want to set her up and why?
With links to the Russian Mob and gambling debts nothing is has it seems. Will Karina stay out of trouble or will she get dragged into trouble all over again.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2019-10-22 06:11:132019-10-22 07:27:06Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Kerry Carr
Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler is another great tale in this wonderful and addictive series. I love Karina Cardinal and the Silverthorne team. This thrilling mystery keeps you on your toes and the plot is sensational as Ellen carefully weaves all the threads to one explosive story. I also love the way that Ellen comes up with different themes for each story. There is action and romance, lies and deceit, friendship and family. Stolen jewels and mistaken identity lead to kidnapping and drug cartels, human trafficking and suspense.
Karina doesn’t even have to try, and danger comes calling but this time there is more at stake.
I tell you this series should be made into a movie or a tv series. It is entertaining, enthralling and engrossing and I eagerly await the next in the series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2019-10-21 19:16:092019-10-21 20:40:13Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Jenni Bishop
This is the third book in the Karina Cardinal series. It can be read as a stand-alone as the story stands on it’s own, but the recurring characters are developed in the beginning of the series. While you will be able to settle into the story, I think it’s best if the series is read in order.
I’m now used to the protagonist’s intricate nature and quirks, so some things don’t come as a surprise. There are quite a few times that things are not as they seem and the intrigue and adventure move fluidly through out the story.
DIAMONDS & DECEPTION was a little bit slower in the beginning than the previous two stories, stick with it because the pace does pick up.
I recommend this book, this series and this author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Maura Harperhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMaura Harper2019-10-20 19:07:482019-10-20 20:08:50Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Maura Harper
Diamonds & Deception ( A Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler 4 Stars!!!!
Right back into the thick of it again with Karina. I once again as not disappointed and was glued to the pages. I really like to read out of my favorite genre and this was a good read. I find the author to have a very refreshing style and draws the reader in.
I really like the investigative reporting angle and I like how the drama and the intrigue flow through the book. The characters jump off of the pages and draw the reader in wanting more. I like how the author brings realism to the characters. I also really relate to Karina and I find that the author really brings her to life. I look forward to reading more from this author and this series.
Diamonds & Deception is the third book in the Karina Cardinal Mystery series by Ellen Butler. It is a great mystery- with drama, danger, intrigue, tension, action, suspense, and more. Even though this is the third book in the series it can be read as a standalone without feeling like you are missing part of the story. But by not reading the first two books, you would be denying yourself some really great stories- and some recurring character introduction, backstories, and other information that would enhance your overall reading experience. Karina Cardinal is a lawyer turned lobbyist in Washington D.C. She’s smart, controlled, spirited, independent and hard-working. She and her old college friend, Mike, turned their friendship into a relationship, but they’ve hit a bit of a rough patch of late and things start off a bit grim. So, when Karina’s sister Jillian calls her to help out a friend, the two sisters are drawn into a mystery which has them both questioning what is really going on. And when trouble comes calling, and you know it will, because Karina seems to attract it- will she call on Mike for help? Or is this the beginning of the end for them? With a diamond heist, danger, secrets, lies, multiple layers, surprising developments, and so much more to the whole situation than they ever suspected- you know you are in for a very intense ride. As with the other two books, this is a really great story- but started off a little ‘slow’ in the beginning and I felt my attention wandering a bit in the first third of the book. But once the pace picked up, things really started flowing and the ‘action’ drew me in. Again, the characters are really well developed, crafted into fully realised individuals with their own personalities, quirks, and flaws. And all added to the overall storyline. There is a “heavier” topic highlighted in this book, which I won’t go into here because I don’t want to spoil the story- but Ms. Butler definitely shone a light on it in a realistic and informative manner- but also with some sensitivity. I can imagine writing about such things would be easy- but again Ms. Butler doesn’t shy away from difficult subjects. She proves time and again what a great storyteller she is. I am definitely looking forward to more from Ellen Butler!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2019-10-20 12:19:272019-10-20 12:25:15Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Angela Hayes
Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler
5 Stars
Another homerun for this author and this must read series. This author crept up on me back with Isabella’s Painting which is what got me hooked on her. This was an awesome addition to this series and Karina continues to be one of my favorite characters ever. I have also quickly fallen for the Silverthorne Security guys, I love everything about the interaction between them and Karina. Another series with them would not disappoint me in any way.
This story was just another Karina getting in the middle of a mess, thanks to her sister and at no fault of her own. She just seems to fall into these circumstances that draw her in and she can’t seem to say no. I love her! Something else I really love about these books is the relationship between Mike and Karina… It’s there, you know its there but its not the main focus, which makes these books refreshing to read.
I love this author and I highly recommend reading all of these in order so you can appreciate the many different aspects of this book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Debi Kircherhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDebi Kircher2019-10-20 11:26:322019-10-20 11:26:32Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Debi Kircher
Diamonds & Deception by Ellen Butler is the third book in the Karina Cardinal Mystery series. This can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the series in order. Karina has gotten herself into another scrape but this time with not all on her own. Jillian, her sister, has gotten into some intrigue because of her friend Sadira. This is a fun, thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The location is D.C. and there are Russian Mob, gang members, diamonds and more. I highly recommend this read and bet you won’t want to put it down either.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sheri Schraderhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSheri Schrader2019-10-18 10:47:202019-10-18 12:50:00Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Sheri Schrader
Diamonds & Deception is the third book in the Karina Cardinal series by Ellen Butler. Let me just say Ellen Butler you know how to grab a reader and keep them engaged throughout the entire book. I would recommend reading the first two books so you will get to know Karina and become her book friend. Karina has a knack for getting into a tight spot. Being a mystery genre, I knew there were roller coaster rides but some of the twists and turns really dropped my jaw a couple of times. Will Karina be able to help the investigation? Will she be able to team up with her sister to solve this mystery or will she have to call in Mike to help her again? There are no hints here. You have to read the book to find out for yourself.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erica Fishhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErica Fish2019-10-15 19:34:322019-10-15 19:57:14Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Erica Fish
Diamonds and Deception by Ellen Butler is the third book in the Karina Cardinal Mystery Series. This is a series that is fast paced and full of twists and turns. You don’t necessarily have to have read these books in order although personally I think you will miss out on a lot of cha after and background development if you don’t. As usual this book was engaging and interesting. I found myself trying to figure it out as we went along. I find it really easily to slip straight back into these characters, even if it has been a while since I read the last book. Ellen Butler really does know how to create an intriguing story with great characters. You should definitely give this series a go!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2019-10-15 15:10:322019-10-15 16:21:38Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Kerry Baker
Ellen Butler’s Karina Cardinal Mystery series continues with Diamonds & Deception. Being book number three in the series you would think that you would know what to expect as far as storyline goes but Ellen Butler manages to keep things fresh, adventurous, and always exciting. I never for one moment find myself bored whenever I am absorbed in a Karina mystery.
I would highly recommend that you start with book one, Isabella’s Painting, if you haven’t done so prior to reading this one. The story and the mystery may be different with each book but the characters develop and often repeat. Their side stories keep things multidimensional and to fully enjoy it you will want the full picture.
Diamonds & Deception boasts a sneaky and complicated tale of mistaken identity and blows up into so much more. This has something for everyone in it from romance to mystery and doesn’t let up till the very last page where there is promise of more excitement to come in future books. I can’t wait to see what will come next for Karina and her sleuthing gang!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2019-10-15 14:37:122019-10-15 16:19:24Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Liz Vrchota
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