About

Ellen Butler is the 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. Multiple books in the series have hit #1 on Amazon bestseller lists in the US and abroad. 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: 2022 Speak Up Talk Radio Firebird Book Award, 2018 IndieReader Discovery Award, 2019 Readers’ Favorite Silver Medal Winner. Butler started writing in the romance genre and won the The Romance Reviews Readers’ Choice Award 2015 with her novel Planning for Love. Her 12th book, Operation Blackbird, a Cold War Spy novel, was published in October 2022.

Butler is a hybrid author—both traditionally and indie published and regularly attends events to share her writing and publishing experiences through workshops, presentations, and panel sessions. 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. Butler is also a member of International Thriller Writers, Office of Strategic Services Society, Virginia Writers Club, and Sisters in Crime.

When she’s not writing Butler enjoys reading, spending time with her family, working on home improvement projects, and attending car shows. Butler has a passion for classic cars, especially the bright colors of the 1950s vehicles replete with fins and bulbous lights.

Ellen is available for Workshops & Presentations. 

Topics:

For General Public:

  • WWII Lady Spies of the OSS (1 hour)
  • Top 10 Art Heists in History (1 hour)

For Writers Groups, Workshops & Conferences:

  • Finding an Agent – Blurbs, Queries & Taglines (1-hour presentation or 2.5-hour workshop)
  • The Business of Publishing – Expectations for Traditional, Small Press & Indie Publishing (1 hour)
  • From Manuscript to Publication – Independent Publishing Workshop (2 hour program)
  • The Dreaded Marketing – Avenues for Getting Your Name and Your Book Out There  (1 hour)

For further information about these topics or to book Ellen for a presentation, please fill out the contact form here.

Connect with Ellen:

Facebook Instagram Goodreads Join Newsletter

Professional Memberships: SINC – Mystery by the Sea Chapter International Thriller Writers, Virginia Writers Club, Sisters In Crime, OSS Society 

Testimonials

“I really enjoyed your intriguing, informative and fun presentation at the University Club of DC of The Top Ten Art Heists in History!!! I never thought about what and how criminals plan or don’t plan the details of an art heist!!!”  -The University Club of Washington, DC

“Much appreciated the Women of the OSS presentation.” – The Freedom Museum (Smithsonian Affiliate)

“…thank you so much again for coming to our library this past Saturday to talk about the Business of Publishing… Our patrons appreciated it very much.” – Alexandria Public Library

“Thank you for providing your presentation on lady spies. Fascinating information!” – Virginia Beach History Museums

“Thank you for being a part of our PWC-Manassas History Symposium! I fully enjoyed your presentation.” -Prince William County Historic Preservation