Amazon #1 International BestsellerIn 1990 a Boston museum was robbed of $500 million worth of artwork. To this day, the art remains at large … until now. 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 … 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.
˃˃˃ Fans of Denise Grover Swank, Melinda Leigh, J.D. Robb will adore this gripping mystery thriller by Award-Winning Bestselling Author Ellen Butler.
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Isabella’s Painting: A Notorious Art Heist Mystery (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 1) by Ellen Butler was a entertaining, fast pace, fun read, that had me hooked!
My first read by this author and I will tell you I will be adding Ellen Butler to my watch list. I loved her writing style, witty and engaging dialogue, and of course I loved how Ellen turned a real life mystery into a fun, light hearted thriller of an adventure, with a ordinary MC, who just happen to be in the wrong place at the right time.
I was captured right away with this tale, it was like magic. The pacing was on point, the detail was rich and it makes you feel like your right there with our MC, trying to figure out what the hell is going on, and how in the world this crazy adventure sucked you in. It had a touch of romance, family revelations, and of course a smart, well rounded, kick ass female MC, that really made this story shine.
As much as I loved the mystery and the danger, Karina, for me, stole the show and brought this story to life. Okay, yes the other characters were great as well, and were just as well constructed, but Karina, she was on a another level. I can’t fully explain it, you’re just going to have to read this wonder to find out for yourself.
What that said, I will leave you with my super high recommendation and my stamp of approval. Believe me you will not be able to put this book down.
Happy Reading.
-E.A. Walsh
I thoroughly enjoyed this one – despite a few head-shaking moments… I was familiar with Ellen Butler’s historical fiction (the very enjoyable The Brass Compass) and looking forward to seeing how she would handle the transition into contemporary fiction. She handled it with aplomb – which should not have surprised me, because the topic she chose – stolen artwork – was one she clearly spent nearly as much time researching as she did the female spies of World War II, and with just as successful a result, to my mind.
The premise here is interesting, as are the characters (for the most part – a few felt like stereotypes, but in hindsight I think that was the point). There is a great narrow-miss romantic backstory with an FBI friend that makes for some fun sexual tension though – I’m hoping for more Mike in future books. He’s a great foil for Karina; they are similar enough to make their long-term friendship not only believable but enjoyable to partake in, yet different enough to serve as great cross-characters when the situation gets a little less than crystal-clear, legally (which, as you might imagine from a mystery, happens with some startling regularity).
I don’t know very much about the art world – particularly the stolen art world – or the Dark Web, and found those bits fascinating. I do know a bit about being a young DC lawyer in the policy/trade association world, having been at various times all of those things, and found those bits generally quite credible and well managed. There was one BIG “oh come ON?!” moment for me though, and I can’t tell you what it is because it’s a spoiler, but suffice to say that I can’t imagine a lawyer as smart and generally savvy as Karina making the decision to act as she did – a decision that is, admittedly, necessary to trigger the action and resolution, but nevertheless one that I can’t imagine making in her place… (You’ll know it when you get there, trust me.) Still, fortune favors the bold I suppose and without this decision and its attendant suspension of disbelief, it’s difficult to see where things would have gone – or at least, where they’d have gone in as interesting and enjoyable-to-read a way, so I’m willing to concede that in the end it advanced the story more than it made me roll my eyes (by far). And as the lone exception to an otherwise very credible story, I’m more than willing to call it a success on balance!
If you are looking for a female protagonist who serves as a sort of grown-up lawyer version of the spunky Nancy Drew and sassy Veronica Mars, I say give Karina Cardinal a try. She’s got the stick-to-it-ivness of both of them, along with a take-no-prisoners sensibility that brings her to choices (like the one so obliquely referenced above) that may not be comprehensible to the average person but are wholly within her indomitably straightforward character. It was a thoroughly enjoyable tale, and I look forward to more adventures!
My review copy was graciously provided by the author. This provision in no way affected my decision to review it or the content of said review.
Ok, show of hands, who here’s guilty pleasure is spending a day watching the mystery movies on the Hallmark channel? Fess up! I know I’m not the only one!
Karina Cardinal, known to her friends as KC, is a lawyer turned lobbyist that has stumbled upon a long lost stolen piece of art work. Torn between wanting to do the right thing and report it to the authorities or keeping her soon to be in-laws and fiancé safe, she sets out to solve the mystery on her own. But when the crime escalates from theft to threats to physical attacks, KC realizes she is in way over her head. Can KC’s college friend now FBI agent Mike Finnegan help her out of this mess, or will the curse surrounding the painting be unleashed on her and those she loves.
Isabella’s Painting by Ellen Butler has the ease and flow of an old fashioned mystery novel with some laugh out loud snark between the characters that makes this an enjoyable and fun read. So put away that TV remote! There is no need to binge watch the next season of NCIS, when you can curl up with your fav beverage and dive into this Karina Cardinal Mystery. Highly recommend and hope this will be an ongoing series.
*I received an ARC for which I voluntarily provided an honest review. *
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!
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!
I’m fascinated with the Gardner Museum robbery, so I’ll shamelessly read just about anything associated with it. I liked the concept of this novel, but it was a little far fetched for me. I liked the characters, it was all just too much.
Couldn’t finish it
Light read. Interesting protagonists. Witty. Plot great concept; details unrealistic.
Good detective story; but I have read other fiction based around the Gardener art theft that are better written and more realistic. However, the writing is fast-paced and the book is a fast and interesting read.
My first read by this author and I will tell you I will be adding more of her books to my TBR list. I loved her writing style, witty and engaging dialogue, and of course I loved how how she turned a real life mystery into a fun, light hearted thriller of an adventure, with a ordinary MC, who just happen to be in the wrong place at the right time. It had a touch of romance, family revelations, and of course a smart, well rounded, kick ass female MC, that really made this story shine. Can’t wait to see what the author comes out with next.
Isabella’s Painting by Ellen Butler is book one in the Karina Cardinal Mystery series. The plot was very interesting. A mystery without murders is so different. Karina finds herself in quite the mess after discovering a rare and missing painting in the home of her boyfriends parents. Will she be able to return it to its rightful place? Or will she simply just put herself in more danger. The book was fast paced although I found myself skimming at times. There was a lot of mundane detail, I found. Though historical fiction is not what I’d normally pick up, it was a different type of story and refreshingly pleasant. The story was based on true life and I found myself wanting to know more about the story it was based on. As the first piece I’ve read by this author, I can say I would like to read more into Karinas story and the stories of the other characters.
Isabella’s Painting: A Notorious Art Heist Mystery by Ellen Butler is book one of the Karina Cardinal Mystery series. This book has it all; a little humor, a little romance, and some mystery. This is the first book I’ve read by this author but I enjoyed it.
This book is based on a real life unsolved mystery. It prompted me to want to look more into it and I really enjoyed the authors take on the whole thing. Karina while quite self conscious is definitely resourceful and intelligent and her investigative skills get her in deep. Karina may not be fully prepared for the risks she’s taken but she can’t give up. The book was definitely suspenseful at times and I was at the edge of my seat.
The author did such a good job portraying this real life situation. I enjoyed the characters and the suspense and couldn’t wait to find out what was going to happen. I would be interested in reading the next book of this series.
Isabellas Painting: a Notorious Art Geist Mystery (Karina Cardinal Mystery book one) written by Ellen Butler. This isn’t my normal genre but I’m glad I gave it a shot. Karina pulls you into this story right away with her witty ways and a promise of some mystery when it comes to seeing a missing painting. As the story progresses so does the mystery and depth of the characters. When it comes down to it you always have to trust your instincts.
Isabella’s Painting: A Notorious Art Heist Mystery (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 1)
By Ellen Butler
This is the first book I have read by this author and I enjoyed being pulled into this intriguing mystery. This book kept me on the edge of my seat, I enjoyed the suspense, danger, humor, and a bit of romance. This story had everything. I was hooked from the beginning and couldn’t put it down unti I found out what happened. I really liked Karina, she’s intelligent and independent, even if she didn’t really understand the danger she was putting herself in. I don’t want to give anything away so you must read this book to find out what happens, I highly recommend this story.
This was a book full of mystery and romance. Should she follow her instincts or leave it be and mind her business? You literally are on the edge of your seat as you read this book. Between all the steamy romance and the great mystery you will find this to be a great page turner. The author has done a great job keeping your drawn in. The author clearly has a great passion for this genre. She has done an amazing job doing something she loves. Make it a great stormy day or cuddled up by the fire kind of read. Enjoy! I can’t wait to read the next one.
Isabella’s Painting is the first book I’ve read by Ellen Butler. This book had all the things I love: mystery, romance, the mob and a strong female. This book had me from the beginning and once I started reading, I really couldn’t stop. Karina is a lawyer/lobbyist in DC. Her boyfriend Patrick comes from a wealthy family. Spending time with his family leads Karina into something that she never saw coming! What can she do? How should she handle it? The way she handles it is brilliant! Such a great book! I cannot wait for the next Karina mystery!
Isabella’a Painting
A Notorious Art Heist Mystery
Karina Cardinal Mystery
Book 1
By Ellen Butler
Let’s just say this is an intense suspense novel. Filled with romance, trust issues, a 28 year old art heist and the mafia?
Karina Cardinal is a strong woman who knows what she wants, and what she does not. Trust for her is a must. When she sees something she should not. She steps up and runs right into danger. But does that stop her? Fighting with her mind, boyfriend and his father, things are about to get intense. Remember it’s not over until THE END!
Patrick Dunne is of money. He also has been hurt many times because of it. Hiding his fortune he is out to find his true love. But his trust issues get in the way. He loves Karina, and pushes her too far. Will he keep the girl?
Ellen Butler has done her homework with this story. Not only does she bring a true case into her story. She has history to back up her story. I love this story! She drew me in and suckered punch me half way through the story. Just as I thought I knew what happened, I was wrong. This book is a real page turner. I could not put it down. Job Well Done Ellen Butler!
A great read about doing the right thing. Karina Cardinal is a lawyer in love with her boyfriend Patrick. His family invite her to their Christmas Party and she has a great time. But odd events happen in Martin’s library that fuel fire to her curiosity. When she discovers the secret, she is dragged into an uncertain world of art and smoke and shadows and perhaps she shouldn’t have looked after all.
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Karina loving and kind but also standing up for herself or the eccentric Molly or mysterious Martin. I loved the use of suspense drawn out to perfection that kept you reading to find out with Karina. I loved the use of setting with the large house and tunnel rooms and hidden places for that sense of mysery but the colourful art contrasting with it beautifully. Or the visual detail of shops and coffee places for a busy vibrant city. High stakes and fast paced action made for a captivating read with a love of art throughout for a lovely touch.Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.
5 Star
Isabella’s Paintings: A Notorious Art Heist Mystery ( Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 1) By Ellen Butler is a book filled with suspense, mystery and some Romance and one that will hook you in the beginning till the very end.There are a few twists and turns that had me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what happens next. This story is about Karina and how she overheard a conversation that wasn’t meant for hers.Find out what happens next. I highly recommend this book.
Isabella’s Painting is a magnificent mystery/thriller book by Ellen Butler. Butler has done her research when it comes to the underground black market of stolen items. This story gripped me from the very first paragraph until the last word. Butler has twists and turns that made me turn the page quickly and then there were ones that I was hesitant to turn. Butler has fully developed characters that I felt like I could be there in the story with them. This story is about Karina and what she sees and hears by accident. There was a heist of paintings from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Karina believes she has seen one and overhears about the painting as well. She is not sure who she can trust. Will Karina get help with what she saw or will she turn the other way? Does she understand what she has gotten herself into?