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Into the Killer Sphere
What if a former British detective from Scotland Yard is called to solve a murder case in Italy?
What if a domestic accident turns into a murder case?
Mystery, conspiracy, drugs, family intrigues. Life is not easy in Tursenia.
Chase Williams is looking forward to a solitary week off, away from the office, when he is dragged into a strange murder case by his friend, Inspector Angelo Alunni.
Piero Galli has died as a result of a chandelier falling on him and breaking his neck. It looks like an accident, but Alunni is not convinced: so who killed Galli?
Despite his plans for a vacation, Chase ends up in a detective story; he has to unravel the knots in a high ranking family of Tursenia, a Medieval city in the heart of Italy, where appearances always come first and foremost, especially if you are wealthy.
As well as rough-necked youths, an interrupted wedding and a handful of noisy dogs, Chase has to cope with that Italian classic: meddling neighbours.
This is a cozy mystery novella where attention to even the tiniest detail could make the difference between leaving a killer on the loose or bringing him or her to justice.
Will Chase take down the assassin before there are more deaths?
What if a domestic accident turns into a murder case?
Mystery, conspiracy, drugs, family intrigues. Life is not easy in Tursenia.
Chase Williams is looking forward to a solitary week off, away from the office, when he is dragged into a strange murder case by his friend, Inspector Angelo Alunni.
Piero Galli has died as a result of a chandelier falling on him and breaking his neck. It looks like an accident, but Alunni is not convinced: so who killed Galli?
Despite his plans for a vacation, Chase ends up in a detective story; he has to unravel the knots in a high ranking family of Tursenia, a Medieval city in the heart of Italy, where appearances always come first and foremost, especially if you are wealthy.
As well as rough-necked youths, an interrupted wedding and a handful of noisy dogs, Chase has to cope with that Italian classic: meddling neighbours.
This is a cozy mystery novella where attention to even the tiniest detail could make the difference between leaving a killer on the loose or bringing him or her to justice.
Will Chase take down the assassin before there are more deaths?
73 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2013
8 people are currently reading
865 people want to read
About the author
Stefania Mattana
19 books105 followersStefania Mattana writes crime novels and detective stories because she is a snooper. She always has been, ever since she was a kid.
Her stories and essays have appeared in numerous publications, websites and anthologies. Her British alter ego Chase Williams lives in her detective stories, from the Cutting Right to the Chase flash fiction collection to The Chase Williams Murder Mystery series.
When she’s not ending up people on fiction, Stefania works within the digital marketing industry in London. She likes reading on the Tube, going to the gym and stalking dogs. She dislikes not running.
Want to talk to Stefania? Contact her on:
Author website: www.eraniapinnera.com
Email: info@eraniapinnera.com
Daily Pinner Blog: http://dailypinner.eraniapinnera.com
Instagram: @eraniapinnera
Twitter: @EraniaPinnera
Her stories and essays have appeared in numerous publications, websites and anthologies. Her British alter ego Chase Williams lives in her detective stories, from the Cutting Right to the Chase flash fiction collection to The Chase Williams Murder Mystery series.
When she’s not ending up people on fiction, Stefania works within the digital marketing industry in London. She likes reading on the Tube, going to the gym and stalking dogs. She dislikes not running.
Want to talk to Stefania? Contact her on:
Author website: www.eraniapinnera.com
Email: info@eraniapinnera.com
Daily Pinner Blog: http://dailypinner.eraniapinnera.com
Instagram: @eraniapinnera
Twitter: @EraniaPinnera
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
December 5, 2013
Chase Williams works for Ernesto Ceccarelli's cashmere company in Italy after his services as detective is 'cut short' at Scotland Yard in London. However, it does not take him long to make friends with detective Angelo Alunni in Tursenia and get invited to crime scenes.
The detective calls him in again when foul play is suspected at the villa of sixty-nine years old Piero Galli who is found dead lying on his library floor. They soon round up the suspect, dissecting their lives and getting up to speed with the events that lead up to the murder. Piero's wife has decided to change her will and disinherit the entire family. It did not go off well and the killer is not finished yet...
My comments: A delightful detective story written for a female audience. All the elements combine perfectly to give it a light, and skillful touch. There's enough spanners thrown into the works, mmmm...if some tools can be called spanners...to make it a wonderful adventure in trying to figure out the clues. Most of the neighbors, or characters then, are likable, even the grumpy ones!
Sooo, for all the closet-detective ladies in us: hit this novella. It's a joy!
**Reviewed for the Kindle Book Review Team**
The detective calls him in again when foul play is suspected at the villa of sixty-nine years old Piero Galli who is found dead lying on his library floor. They soon round up the suspect, dissecting their lives and getting up to speed with the events that lead up to the murder. Piero's wife has decided to change her will and disinherit the entire family. It did not go off well and the killer is not finished yet...
My comments: A delightful detective story written for a female audience. All the elements combine perfectly to give it a light, and skillful touch. There's enough spanners thrown into the works, mmmm...if some tools can be called spanners...to make it a wonderful adventure in trying to figure out the clues. Most of the neighbors, or characters then, are likable, even the grumpy ones!
Sooo, for all the closet-detective ladies in us: hit this novella. It's a joy!
**Reviewed for the Kindle Book Review Team**
September 18, 2022
The chandelier falls and crushes a wealthy man. There is evidence of foul play, as the cable holding the chandelier was cut on purpose.
The motive is obviously money but all the suspects have watertight alibis.
Who benefits by the murder? Who is telling lies?
The motive is obviously money but all the suspects have watertight alibis.
Who benefits by the murder? Who is telling lies?
January 4, 2014
**3.5-4 stars**
Thank you to the author for the review copy.
Chase Williams is looking forward to a solitary week off, away from the office, when he is dragged into a strange murder case by his friend, Inspector Angelo Alunni.
Piero Galli has died as a result of a chandelier falling on him and breaking his neck. It looks like an accident, but Alunni is not convinced: so who killed Galli?
After meeting Chase Williams in “Cutting Right to the Chase” I was very much looking forward to reading more of his adventures and this did not disappoint.
In this instalment we find him investigating a strange accidental death which may well actually be murder. Instead of his expected holiday he finds himself embroiled in a family drama at the behest of a friend.
This is a lovely easy to read and enjoyable “cosy” mystery set in the beautiful surroundings of Italy. Chase is an interesting character to follow and the mystery element is quietly intriguing.
Perfect reading for a winters afternoon I thoroughly enjoyed this one and I look forward to more.
Happy Reading Folks!
Thank you to the author for the review copy.
Chase Williams is looking forward to a solitary week off, away from the office, when he is dragged into a strange murder case by his friend, Inspector Angelo Alunni.
Piero Galli has died as a result of a chandelier falling on him and breaking his neck. It looks like an accident, but Alunni is not convinced: so who killed Galli?
After meeting Chase Williams in “Cutting Right to the Chase” I was very much looking forward to reading more of his adventures and this did not disappoint.
In this instalment we find him investigating a strange accidental death which may well actually be murder. Instead of his expected holiday he finds himself embroiled in a family drama at the behest of a friend.
This is a lovely easy to read and enjoyable “cosy” mystery set in the beautiful surroundings of Italy. Chase is an interesting character to follow and the mystery element is quietly intriguing.
Perfect reading for a winters afternoon I thoroughly enjoyed this one and I look forward to more.
Happy Reading Folks!
October 24, 2013
Scroll down for the English version.
Attenti alla sfera!
Dopo aver conosciuto Chase Williams nei brevi racconti di “Cutting Right to the Chase”, aspettavo con ansia di vedere questo personaggio alle prese con un caso vero, con una storia complessa, per scoprire come se la sarebbe cavata. Il nostro Chase in questo “Into the Killer Sphere” (altro titolo a doppio senso, che già di per sé è un piccolo capolavoro) si trova di fronte al classico omicidio avvenuto nell’ambito di una ricca famiglia, i cui membri, nessuno escluso, sembrano esserne i sospettati, un po’ per il loro comportamento ambiguo e un po’ per il fatto che possono beneficiare in qualche modo della morte del congiunto. Eppure è tutto molto bizzarro, a iniziare da come la vittima è morta, tant’è che la storia si concentra molto più sul come che sul chi, il quale a un certo punto può essere intuito dal lettore particolarmente attento.
Chase con i suoi modi un po’ goffi, che forse portano i sospettati a sottovalutarlo (altro elemento dei gialli classici), cela però una perspicacia senza eguali nel seguire tutte le tracce, persino quelle più insignificanti, e arrivare alla soluzione, senza che il lettore sia in grado di stare dietro ai suoi ragionamento, finendo per essere colto dalla sorpresa della rivelazione. Il lettore non ci sarebbe mai arrivato, sebbene fosse tutto davanti ai suoi occhi, come nella tradizione dei grandi gialli.
I miei complimenti a Stefania, questa Agatha Christie sarda che segue egregiamente le orme della grande giallista e che, sono certa, ci farà vivere ancora tante divertenti avventure per le strade di Tursenia.
Beware the sphere!
After getting to know Chase Williams in the short stories of “Cutting Right to the Chase”, I was looking forward to seeing this character dealing with a real case, with a complex story, to find out how he would fare. Our Chase in this “Into the Killer Sphere” (another title with a double meaning, which in itself is a small masterpiece) finds himself before the classic murder that took place in the context of a rich family, whose members, without exception, seem to be the suspects, because of their ambiguous behaviour and for the fact that they can benefit in some way from the death their relative. Yet it’s all very bizarre, starting with how the victim is dead, and actually the story focuses much more on the “how” than on the “who”, which at some point can be understood by an especially careful reader.
Chase with his awkward manners, which maybe bring the suspects to underestimate him (another element of classic detective stories), however, conceals a unique insight in following the traces, even the most insignificant ones, and coming to a solution, whilst the reader is unable to stand behind his reasoning, only to be caught by surprise with the final revelation. The reader would never come to it, although it was all in front of their eyes, as in the tradition of the great detective stories.
Congratulations to Stefania, this Sardinian Agatha Christie who follows admirably the tracks of this great writer and, I am sure, will make us live yet many fun adventures on the streets of Tursenia.
Attenti alla sfera!
Dopo aver conosciuto Chase Williams nei brevi racconti di “Cutting Right to the Chase”, aspettavo con ansia di vedere questo personaggio alle prese con un caso vero, con una storia complessa, per scoprire come se la sarebbe cavata. Il nostro Chase in questo “Into the Killer Sphere” (altro titolo a doppio senso, che già di per sé è un piccolo capolavoro) si trova di fronte al classico omicidio avvenuto nell’ambito di una ricca famiglia, i cui membri, nessuno escluso, sembrano esserne i sospettati, un po’ per il loro comportamento ambiguo e un po’ per il fatto che possono beneficiare in qualche modo della morte del congiunto. Eppure è tutto molto bizzarro, a iniziare da come la vittima è morta, tant’è che la storia si concentra molto più sul come che sul chi, il quale a un certo punto può essere intuito dal lettore particolarmente attento.
Chase con i suoi modi un po’ goffi, che forse portano i sospettati a sottovalutarlo (altro elemento dei gialli classici), cela però una perspicacia senza eguali nel seguire tutte le tracce, persino quelle più insignificanti, e arrivare alla soluzione, senza che il lettore sia in grado di stare dietro ai suoi ragionamento, finendo per essere colto dalla sorpresa della rivelazione. Il lettore non ci sarebbe mai arrivato, sebbene fosse tutto davanti ai suoi occhi, come nella tradizione dei grandi gialli.
I miei complimenti a Stefania, questa Agatha Christie sarda che segue egregiamente le orme della grande giallista e che, sono certa, ci farà vivere ancora tante divertenti avventure per le strade di Tursenia.
Beware the sphere!
After getting to know Chase Williams in the short stories of “Cutting Right to the Chase”, I was looking forward to seeing this character dealing with a real case, with a complex story, to find out how he would fare. Our Chase in this “Into the Killer Sphere” (another title with a double meaning, which in itself is a small masterpiece) finds himself before the classic murder that took place in the context of a rich family, whose members, without exception, seem to be the suspects, because of their ambiguous behaviour and for the fact that they can benefit in some way from the death their relative. Yet it’s all very bizarre, starting with how the victim is dead, and actually the story focuses much more on the “how” than on the “who”, which at some point can be understood by an especially careful reader.
Chase with his awkward manners, which maybe bring the suspects to underestimate him (another element of classic detective stories), however, conceals a unique insight in following the traces, even the most insignificant ones, and coming to a solution, whilst the reader is unable to stand behind his reasoning, only to be caught by surprise with the final revelation. The reader would never come to it, although it was all in front of their eyes, as in the tradition of the great detective stories.
Congratulations to Stefania, this Sardinian Agatha Christie who follows admirably the tracks of this great writer and, I am sure, will make us live yet many fun adventures on the streets of Tursenia.
September 13, 2016
"Into the Killer Sphere (Chase Williams detective stories #1)" by Stefania Mattana is a very enjoyable and well written thriller set in a atmospheric medieval-looking city in contemporary Italy.
Chase Williams from the UK is called upon to assist his friend Inspector Angelo Alunni in a case that seems like an accident but highly likely isn't.
Together the pair combine forensic and personal intelligence to get to the bottom of the case.
The investigation is one wonderful and charming journey through Italian idiosyncrasies with amazing colourful characters.
The plot is cleverly woven and told with attention to detail.
This is a great crime story with a beautiful setting, entertaining but sophisticated enough to distinguish itself from mere beach reads - although it would certainly work as such, too.
Highly recommended.
Chase Williams from the UK is called upon to assist his friend Inspector Angelo Alunni in a case that seems like an accident but highly likely isn't.
Together the pair combine forensic and personal intelligence to get to the bottom of the case.
The investigation is one wonderful and charming journey through Italian idiosyncrasies with amazing colourful characters.
The plot is cleverly woven and told with attention to detail.
This is a great crime story with a beautiful setting, entertaining but sophisticated enough to distinguish itself from mere beach reads - although it would certainly work as such, too.
Highly recommended.
October 10, 2013
Having read the collection of six short stories, "Cutting Right to the Chase", by this author, I was really curious to dive into her next book "Into the Killer Sphere". I found the protagonist, Chase, already quite charming from the start, from the glimpse I got from the short stories, so I was interested to see how he would deal if he were presented with a beefy case, not a small ordinary crime, but a real murder.
Well, I was not disappointed! Inspector Alumni needs to figure out who killed Piero Galli and calls for the help of Chase, who reluctantly agrees. As Chase is not a police officer, his role is more of a background one, or at least, that's what it seems. Still, he has the ability to ask the right questions to the right people at the right time, and this includes the suspects, the forensics team, his own colleagues. I had the impression that for a guy who was called in to 'give a hand' he was actually doing more than his fair share. He's clearly a dedicated hero, someone who truly cares about finding the truth.
I was trying to picture who the murderer was from the start, and even when there was a second attempt at killing, I was far from the truth. The end was a surprise for me and I was really fascinated by how Chase had managed to figure it all out, from such small clues, and put all the pieces of the puzzle together. This was a great book, I will definitely want to read more about Chase and further cases he will have to solve in the future.
Well, I was not disappointed! Inspector Alumni needs to figure out who killed Piero Galli and calls for the help of Chase, who reluctantly agrees. As Chase is not a police officer, his role is more of a background one, or at least, that's what it seems. Still, he has the ability to ask the right questions to the right people at the right time, and this includes the suspects, the forensics team, his own colleagues. I had the impression that for a guy who was called in to 'give a hand' he was actually doing more than his fair share. He's clearly a dedicated hero, someone who truly cares about finding the truth.
I was trying to picture who the murderer was from the start, and even when there was a second attempt at killing, I was far from the truth. The end was a surprise for me and I was really fascinated by how Chase had managed to figure it all out, from such small clues, and put all the pieces of the puzzle together. This was a great book, I will definitely want to read more about Chase and further cases he will have to solve in the future.
August 30, 2016
This is a fast-paced whodunit detective story bringing the ever clever Chase Williams (if you haven't read any of the other short stories featuring this splendidly sharp-eyed sleuth I would highly recommend you do so!) back for a little murder mystery solving fun. Prepare yourself to read this one in one sitting, because it's hard to put down once you get started!
The author takes you on a great trip through a brilliant Italian town introducing you to a cast of characters you won't soon forget! Each player in the story is brought to life in a way that makes you feel as if you've either seen them before, met them before, or heard of them before and they stick with you in your mind even after you are finished reading. The story progresses at just the right speed you feel entirely complete when you get to the very last word (even though it leaves you wanting just a bit more!).
This was a great story by an author who is able masterfully give the lead character Chase Williams a life all his own! I'm looking forward to reading more adventures from the author and Chase in the future!
The author takes you on a great trip through a brilliant Italian town introducing you to a cast of characters you won't soon forget! Each player in the story is brought to life in a way that makes you feel as if you've either seen them before, met them before, or heard of them before and they stick with you in your mind even after you are finished reading. The story progresses at just the right speed you feel entirely complete when you get to the very last word (even though it leaves you wanting just a bit more!).
This was a great story by an author who is able masterfully give the lead character Chase Williams a life all his own! I'm looking forward to reading more adventures from the author and Chase in the future!
June 3, 2014
Chase Williams, once a young detective in London, is now living in the Etruscan city of Tursenia in the Italian Appenines, and working for a cashmere company. He has turned his back on police matters, or has he..? His friend, Inspector Angelo Alunni, enlists his help in investigating the death of irascible, half-deranged, 69-year-old Piero Galli, seemingly crushed by a falling chandelier. There are a number of suspects in the household, including a Romanian housemaid, as well as the deceased’s mother, daughter, brother and sister-in-law, and one or two others. We also learn that Piero’s mother was about to change her will, and leave all her money to the housemaid, not the grandchildren. Further murder attempts are foiled by Chase. Then two people disappear on the day of Piero’s funeral… And is there also something to do with the dogs not barking? This is a classic whodunnit. A dead man, and a house full of suspects. As we follow Chase in his investigation, the deductive skills shown, and the explanation of the murder, and the person or persons responsible, speak much not just of Chase’s detective ability but also of Stefania Mattana’s great talent. Not to be missed.
October 16, 2013
After reading "Cutting Right to the Chase", I was super excited to see the release of this new e-book featuring the charming and mysterious detective Chase Williams. Though, to be honest, I was expecting to get to know a bit more about his past life... Maybe in the next book!
This time it was nice to see Stefania Mattana challenging herself with a longer and more complex text. It was also nice to find again all of the characters from her older short stories.
The story is very well-written and the plot is incredibly clever. I couldn't understand who the murderer was till the very last bit of the book (that is - when it's actually revealed!), even if I tried to pay attention to the smallest details. I won't say anything to avoid any possible spoiler.
I love Mattana's writing style because it's smooth but polished at the same time. Now I'll patiently wait for her next book and for more glimpses of Chase's life in Italy.
I suggest you get this e-book - if you like crime stories it won't disappoint you, and the price is ridiculous for such good quality.
This time it was nice to see Stefania Mattana challenging herself with a longer and more complex text. It was also nice to find again all of the characters from her older short stories.
The story is very well-written and the plot is incredibly clever. I couldn't understand who the murderer was till the very last bit of the book (that is - when it's actually revealed!), even if I tried to pay attention to the smallest details. I won't say anything to avoid any possible spoiler.
I love Mattana's writing style because it's smooth but polished at the same time. Now I'll patiently wait for her next book and for more glimpses of Chase's life in Italy.
I suggest you get this e-book - if you like crime stories it won't disappoint you, and the price is ridiculous for such good quality.
February 19, 2014
This is a very entertaining detective fiction. It has kept me very good company and glued to my Kindle too, as I followed the clever development of the plot and trying to guess the assassin (I've always been lousy at this bit, although I've been a fan of Agatha Christie and devouring all her books ever since I was a kid!). The main character, Chase, which I already knew from "Cutting right to the Chase", is fascinating and well depicted. He grows on you. The other characters are captivating too and I particularly love the way the author has described the atmosphere of a little wealthy town in central Italy, giving plenty of detail in a skillful, light way, with the right amount of humour. The whole murder and investigation plot is nicely unveiled until the grand final that contains a pleasant bit of action. I can recommend this book to any crime fiction lover!
February 4, 2014
INTO THE KILLER SPHERE is a light, entertaining read with a dark side. Chase Williams is looking forward to a little time off from work when his friend Inspector Angelo Alunni convinces him to visit an accident scene because Alluni suspects murder. Wealthy Piero Galli died from a broken neck when a chandelier fell on him. All seems clear until Williams digs deeper into Galli's family dynamics - everyone had a reason to want poor Galli dead!
Or was it really Galli they were after?
A fun, fast-paced story set in beautiful small town Italy. The characters are well-developed and come across as perfectly real - from the kind and helpful to the grumpy. Well worth the read.
Or was it really Galli they were after?
A fun, fast-paced story set in beautiful small town Italy. The characters are well-developed and come across as perfectly real - from the kind and helpful to the grumpy. Well worth the read.
February 17, 2014
1.5 stars
I really don't know what to say about Stefania Mattana's Into the Killer Sphere. The "mystery" was not mysterious; I identified the killer the minute the character was introduced. Figuring out "whodunnit?" is not the only pleasure of a mystery/detective story, however; I have enjoyed many books where the bad guy was obvious from the beginning, yet the author held my attention with strong writing, character development, an intriguing setting, or interesting clues. Unfortunately, Into the Killer Sphere contained none of these.
Mattana's writing was pedestrian; everything unusual or surprising was described as "weird," and I couldn't help snickering every time grown men referred to each other as "big boy." Chase Williams, the former British police officer now playing amateur sleuth in Italy, was a cardboard character; the brief references to the incident which led to his departure from England, far from being intriguing and leading the reader to want to learn more about his back story, were ham-fisted:
The Italian setting was irrelevant to the story, which could have taken place anywhere.
With the exception of one deduction related to the dogs, none of the "clues" advanced the story; in fact, Mattana's description of the facts which led to Williams's identification of the killer was internally inconsistent. Had the killer not acted, for some bizarre reason, in such a way as to out him/herself at the end of the book, none of the "evidence" relied on by Williams would have supported an arrest, much less a conviction.
Readers looking for mysteries with a real sense of Italy should check out Maurizio de Giovanni's Commissario Ricciardi series. Those interested in a damaged hero with an intriguing back story should consider Mo Hayder's Jack Caffrey series. Give Chase Williams a pass.
I received a free copy of Into the Killer Sphere from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I really don't know what to say about Stefania Mattana's Into the Killer Sphere. The "mystery" was not mysterious; I identified the killer the minute the character was introduced. Figuring out "whodunnit?" is not the only pleasure of a mystery/detective story, however; I have enjoyed many books where the bad guy was obvious from the beginning, yet the author held my attention with strong writing, character development, an intriguing setting, or interesting clues. Unfortunately, Into the Killer Sphere contained none of these.
Mattana's writing was pedestrian; everything unusual or surprising was described as "weird," and I couldn't help snickering every time grown men referred to each other as "big boy." Chase Williams, the former British police officer now playing amateur sleuth in Italy, was a cardboard character; the brief references to the incident which led to his departure from England, far from being intriguing and leading the reader to want to learn more about his back story, were ham-fisted:
It was another lie, another thing, like the one which had hurt his mother and let down his brother, Scott. Another thing which made his father even more infuriated with him.
He had needed to give some explanation for his move to Tursenia without revealing the real, awful reason.
The Italian setting was irrelevant to the story, which could have taken place anywhere.
With the exception of one deduction related to the dogs, none of the "clues" advanced the story; in fact, Mattana's description of the facts which led to Williams's identification of the killer was internally inconsistent. Had the killer not acted, for some bizarre reason, in such a way as to out him/herself at the end of the book, none of the "evidence" relied on by Williams would have supported an arrest, much less a conviction.
Readers looking for mysteries with a real sense of Italy should check out Maurizio de Giovanni's Commissario Ricciardi series. Those interested in a damaged hero with an intriguing back story should consider Mo Hayder's Jack Caffrey series. Give Chase Williams a pass.
I received a free copy of Into the Killer Sphere from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 6, 2014
Italy is a country that can bring up a lot of mental images to a person. There are the obvious ruins of the Roman Empire. Others may picture villages surrounded by lush fields with grapes or some other crop being grown. The other being a country steeped in tradition where families are united and stay on land for decades. Lastly there is the dark side, and that is a country that was influenced by the Mob.
It is the small picturesque beauty and quaint towns that brings ex-detective Chase Williams to the town of Tursenia to escape his office job in England. It’s a quaint little village with some interesting town’s people. One of whom seems to find himself being a village parking attendant, but you will have to read the book to find out about that. The important thing to Chase was getting a vacation and enjoying a place where he could run without distraction.
The problem with the modern age is there is this thing called a phone and if people know where you are they will call. This happens to Chase Williams and the call is from an old friend, Detective Angelo Alunni who would like some help on a potential murder. A well-known, but not as well liked man Piero Galli was found dead with a chandelier being the cause of his death. Others want to mark the death was accidental, or even suicide but Alunni questions that finding and thus brings in Chase.
Into the Killing Sphere is written by author Stefania Mattana who writes a very good mystery in what is not her first language. She makes use of the small Italian town and the way of the locals in a way someone would have grown up knowing. I tease as her Amazon author page will tell you she is from Sardinia, which is just off the coast of Italy.
What Mattana does with her book is paint a very interesting case of potential murder. The main family is run, almost ruled, by an older woman. A rich woman who’s family is almost typical of many splintered families. As often is found, where there is money there is a “messed” up family who wants their share.
The main character, Chase, also has a bit of a mystery behind him as well. He is willing to help his friend but will not step foot in a police station. He is ex-Scotland Yard and readers may wonder why. We get an idea it has something to do with his father but that is one mystery that is not solved within these pages. What makes this interesting is how it makes meetings between Alunni and Chase seem a bit clandestine, and adds a small additional flair to the store.
The reader will be introduced to many characters in this book and if you read carefully enough you may get an idea on who the murderer is before Chase. This is because the clues are explained in just enough detail that you could figure it out. The flip side, as in many good detective novels, you may find out you are wrong.
The interaction with Chase and the locals can be problematic at times as his Italian isn’t the best. It in a way reflects some of the struggles Mattana may have had when writing her first stories in English. So I like to think that may be this was a bit intentional. The key thing is as you read the book you get introduced to a well written story. One that can be a throwback to those well written detective stories by other great authors. Either way it’s a good read or something that mystery readers will enjoy. Also due to the way it is written fans of other genres should also find this a great quick read. Why quick, well it is only 73 pages from the Amazon description. However, if you are like me and after reading this book you will be happy to learn there were short stories prior to this book.
It is the small picturesque beauty and quaint towns that brings ex-detective Chase Williams to the town of Tursenia to escape his office job in England. It’s a quaint little village with some interesting town’s people. One of whom seems to find himself being a village parking attendant, but you will have to read the book to find out about that. The important thing to Chase was getting a vacation and enjoying a place where he could run without distraction.
The problem with the modern age is there is this thing called a phone and if people know where you are they will call. This happens to Chase Williams and the call is from an old friend, Detective Angelo Alunni who would like some help on a potential murder. A well-known, but not as well liked man Piero Galli was found dead with a chandelier being the cause of his death. Others want to mark the death was accidental, or even suicide but Alunni questions that finding and thus brings in Chase.
Into the Killing Sphere is written by author Stefania Mattana who writes a very good mystery in what is not her first language. She makes use of the small Italian town and the way of the locals in a way someone would have grown up knowing. I tease as her Amazon author page will tell you she is from Sardinia, which is just off the coast of Italy.
What Mattana does with her book is paint a very interesting case of potential murder. The main family is run, almost ruled, by an older woman. A rich woman who’s family is almost typical of many splintered families. As often is found, where there is money there is a “messed” up family who wants their share.
The main character, Chase, also has a bit of a mystery behind him as well. He is willing to help his friend but will not step foot in a police station. He is ex-Scotland Yard and readers may wonder why. We get an idea it has something to do with his father but that is one mystery that is not solved within these pages. What makes this interesting is how it makes meetings between Alunni and Chase seem a bit clandestine, and adds a small additional flair to the store.
The reader will be introduced to many characters in this book and if you read carefully enough you may get an idea on who the murderer is before Chase. This is because the clues are explained in just enough detail that you could figure it out. The flip side, as in many good detective novels, you may find out you are wrong.
The interaction with Chase and the locals can be problematic at times as his Italian isn’t the best. It in a way reflects some of the struggles Mattana may have had when writing her first stories in English. So I like to think that may be this was a bit intentional. The key thing is as you read the book you get introduced to a well written story. One that can be a throwback to those well written detective stories by other great authors. Either way it’s a good read or something that mystery readers will enjoy. Also due to the way it is written fans of other genres should also find this a great quick read. Why quick, well it is only 73 pages from the Amazon description. However, if you are like me and after reading this book you will be happy to learn there were short stories prior to this book.
September 28, 2014
Inspector Angelo Alunni has a problem on his hands – a possible murder in his small town, where every person close to the deceased has motive but not means. Can he break the case before another family member is taken out?
The story:
Chase Williams is taking a well deserved break from policing in the small Italian town of Tursenia. Unfortunately, Turensia is the home of his childhood friend, police inspector Angelo Alunni. When Piero Galli dies under a falling chandelier in his stately but isolated home, Angelo convinces Chase to come and help out at the crime scene.
Against Chase's will he's pulled deeper into the mystery. Under what circumstances did Piero die? His family knew he'd spoken about changing his will. Was it his brother? His sister in law? His elderly mother? His ex-addict granddaughter? There was no evidence left at the scene of the crime, and as far as Chase can see, the Italian police keep allowing the family to contaminate it out of respect for their feelings. There also doesn't seem to be a strong motive. Can Chase solve the mystery and keep the rest of the family alive?
The style:
Into The Killer Sphere has a good strong plot, certainly. The characters are all honestly written, particularly Chase, whose point of view we see the most of through a classic third person limited perspective. The pacing is great, and carries the story through just the right length. But Into the Killer Sphere has something about it that raises it above your classic crime novella. I absolutely loved it, and I think the reason I loved it so much is two-fold:
Firstly, the sense of place is impeccable. Tursenia, to which I have never been, came alive on each page. I could see it, smell it, and I lived it during the reading experience. Mattana has a real way with description, she doesn't go overboard, but every tiny detail she puts in really gives Tursenia three solid dimensions. The setting put this story above and beyond your classic Agatha Christie, because there you are, in Italy, and I mean, like, REALLY in Italy. Stunning.
The second reason I really loved this book is linked to sense of place, in the way that the story is so Italian. Mattana's grasp of English, which I believe is her second language, is flawless, but the way she uses English is influenced by her knowledge of the Italian language, and this gives her a rare poetry that I think native English speakers just don't have the capacity for. I am lucky enough to come from a small port city in Australia with a huge population of Italian migrants, so I have experienced the way Italians put their own inflections and translations into the English language, and this book so perfectly reminded me of the way Italians speak, gesture, and describe every day life. It seems like such a rare talent to be able to write such a great story in your second language and have it stand out for that very reason, and for that I applaud Stefania Mattana.
Who is this book for?
If Agatha Christie is a bit dry for you, definitely give Into The Killer Sphere a go. It's only seventy five pages. You can knock it off on the bus to and from work, and you'll laugh. And love it. And it's cheaper than a cup of coffee to download it to your kindle. There is literally NO REASON not to read this book.
If you like this book, you would also like...
There's more Chase Williams! Yay! Also, Chase is very techno savvy, he's on Twitter and all. Get interactive with him, it's worth it!
The story:
Chase Williams is taking a well deserved break from policing in the small Italian town of Tursenia. Unfortunately, Turensia is the home of his childhood friend, police inspector Angelo Alunni. When Piero Galli dies under a falling chandelier in his stately but isolated home, Angelo convinces Chase to come and help out at the crime scene.
Against Chase's will he's pulled deeper into the mystery. Under what circumstances did Piero die? His family knew he'd spoken about changing his will. Was it his brother? His sister in law? His elderly mother? His ex-addict granddaughter? There was no evidence left at the scene of the crime, and as far as Chase can see, the Italian police keep allowing the family to contaminate it out of respect for their feelings. There also doesn't seem to be a strong motive. Can Chase solve the mystery and keep the rest of the family alive?
The style:
Into The Killer Sphere has a good strong plot, certainly. The characters are all honestly written, particularly Chase, whose point of view we see the most of through a classic third person limited perspective. The pacing is great, and carries the story through just the right length. But Into the Killer Sphere has something about it that raises it above your classic crime novella. I absolutely loved it, and I think the reason I loved it so much is two-fold:
Firstly, the sense of place is impeccable. Tursenia, to which I have never been, came alive on each page. I could see it, smell it, and I lived it during the reading experience. Mattana has a real way with description, she doesn't go overboard, but every tiny detail she puts in really gives Tursenia three solid dimensions. The setting put this story above and beyond your classic Agatha Christie, because there you are, in Italy, and I mean, like, REALLY in Italy. Stunning.
The second reason I really loved this book is linked to sense of place, in the way that the story is so Italian. Mattana's grasp of English, which I believe is her second language, is flawless, but the way she uses English is influenced by her knowledge of the Italian language, and this gives her a rare poetry that I think native English speakers just don't have the capacity for. I am lucky enough to come from a small port city in Australia with a huge population of Italian migrants, so I have experienced the way Italians put their own inflections and translations into the English language, and this book so perfectly reminded me of the way Italians speak, gesture, and describe every day life. It seems like such a rare talent to be able to write such a great story in your second language and have it stand out for that very reason, and for that I applaud Stefania Mattana.
Who is this book for?
If Agatha Christie is a bit dry for you, definitely give Into The Killer Sphere a go. It's only seventy five pages. You can knock it off on the bus to and from work, and you'll laugh. And love it. And it's cheaper than a cup of coffee to download it to your kindle. There is literally NO REASON not to read this book.
If you like this book, you would also like...
There's more Chase Williams! Yay! Also, Chase is very techno savvy, he's on Twitter and all. Get interactive with him, it's worth it!
August 4, 2014
Into the Killer Sphere is a delightful and thrilling whodunit tale from Stefania Mattana. This was the first book, which I’ve read in the Chase Williams mystery series. However, I don’t feel like I was at a disadvantage compared with other readers. The author did an excellent job introducing me to the lead protagonist. I found Chase to be a complex and engaging character. He was very likeable and easy to root for through out this fast-paced detective story.
As other readers have already mentioned, the book follows the former detective Chase who is dragged into a murder case (staged to seem like an accident) by an inspector friend. The book is set in Italy. The landscapes and locales are described with finesse. There is a nice balance between lush detail and pacing. The author is adept at avoiding overkill when it comes to description. Stefania Mattana has an intriguing style to her writing, which draws you and makes you feel like you are there in the environments with the characters. Each character felt unique and authentic to his or her own ethnicities as well as personalities.
This story kind of reminded me of an old Tintin detective/adventure tale. There were plenty of twists and turns as well as refreshing humor thrown in for good measure. Like any good mystery tale, there is tension and intrigue woven through out the web of clues. I think Into the Killer Sphere would appeal and be appropriate for readers young and old.
I enjoyed how enough information was given so that I could try to sleuth out the case along with Chase. Although my theory ultimately proved incorrect, I enjoyed how the tale was eventually resolved. Some detective thrillers leave me feeling unfulfilled and cheated, because the final plot twists and culprit(s) come out of left field. I appreciate how Into the Killer Sphere is grounded in reality and doesn’t try to blow the reader’s mind with shocking final twists. However, this doesn’t mean that the book is in anyway predictable. There are multiple layers to the plot, and I was kept guessing/sleuthing through this quick read.
I highly recommend this book. As mentioned earlier, this was the first book that I’ve read in the Chase Williams series. I think it succeeded as a stand-alone book, but it also left me inspired to read more. I very much look forward to diving into the other adventures of the Chase Williams.
As other readers have already mentioned, the book follows the former detective Chase who is dragged into a murder case (staged to seem like an accident) by an inspector friend. The book is set in Italy. The landscapes and locales are described with finesse. There is a nice balance between lush detail and pacing. The author is adept at avoiding overkill when it comes to description. Stefania Mattana has an intriguing style to her writing, which draws you and makes you feel like you are there in the environments with the characters. Each character felt unique and authentic to his or her own ethnicities as well as personalities.
This story kind of reminded me of an old Tintin detective/adventure tale. There were plenty of twists and turns as well as refreshing humor thrown in for good measure. Like any good mystery tale, there is tension and intrigue woven through out the web of clues. I think Into the Killer Sphere would appeal and be appropriate for readers young and old.
I enjoyed how enough information was given so that I could try to sleuth out the case along with Chase. Although my theory ultimately proved incorrect, I enjoyed how the tale was eventually resolved. Some detective thrillers leave me feeling unfulfilled and cheated, because the final plot twists and culprit(s) come out of left field. I appreciate how Into the Killer Sphere is grounded in reality and doesn’t try to blow the reader’s mind with shocking final twists. However, this doesn’t mean that the book is in anyway predictable. There are multiple layers to the plot, and I was kept guessing/sleuthing through this quick read.
I highly recommend this book. As mentioned earlier, this was the first book that I’ve read in the Chase Williams series. I think it succeeded as a stand-alone book, but it also left me inspired to read more. I very much look forward to diving into the other adventures of the Chase Williams.
August 24, 2014
Into the Killer Sphere by Stefania Mattana is a cozy mystery about a retired London detective named Chase Williams, and his investigation into the murder of an Italian family’s patriarch.
Chase was just starting his vacation in the Italian town of Tursenia when Angelo Alunni, his friend and a local police officer, calls Chase in to help investigate a murder most foul. The demise of Piero Galli presents puzzling clues that do not add up. Signor Galli has a swirl of family and servants that appear heartbroken at his loss, but they are clever with their alibis. Even Piero Galli’s prized hounds play into the mix of clues.
Signora Agata Galli, Piero’s mother, insists that her greedy granddaughter did the deed, but Chase is not convinced. The laidback approach of the Tursenia police worries Chase, and with a sizable inheritance on the line, the vacationing detective must solve this puzzler of a case before the killer strikes the family again.
Into the Killer Sphere does an excellent job of detailing the Italian countryside. Lush descriptions of the homes and people through Chase’s eyes show us the keen observation skills of the retired detective. But which of these delightful descriptions are clues about the murder?
The deceased’s hounds helps Chase solve the case. But his revelation may be too late to save the next victim.
Chase was just starting his vacation in the Italian town of Tursenia when Angelo Alunni, his friend and a local police officer, calls Chase in to help investigate a murder most foul. The demise of Piero Galli presents puzzling clues that do not add up. Signor Galli has a swirl of family and servants that appear heartbroken at his loss, but they are clever with their alibis. Even Piero Galli’s prized hounds play into the mix of clues.
Signora Agata Galli, Piero’s mother, insists that her greedy granddaughter did the deed, but Chase is not convinced. The laidback approach of the Tursenia police worries Chase, and with a sizable inheritance on the line, the vacationing detective must solve this puzzler of a case before the killer strikes the family again.
Into the Killer Sphere does an excellent job of detailing the Italian countryside. Lush descriptions of the homes and people through Chase’s eyes show us the keen observation skills of the retired detective. But which of these delightful descriptions are clues about the murder?
The deceased’s hounds helps Chase solve the case. But his revelation may be too late to save the next victim.
August 25, 2015
Delightful and Inspired!
Chase Williams is real, or so I thought when I discovered his blog about living in Italy! What an inspired move by the author to create a whole reality around this character. I was quite shocked to realise that he was really a girl and the author.
Chase may be a member of the ‘Sherlock Holmes Club’ but his style of detecting is much less cryptic. He watches and waits, letting the pieces fall where they will, just waiting for the right moment to catch the killer. There was some lovely tongue in cheek moments, especially between him and his Italian friend, Angelo. I can still smell that cigarette smoke.
I loved how all the characters swirled around each other as the tensions built the momentum towards the climax.
I was even reading in an Italian accent! Excellent!
All in all this was a very enjoyable journey although I do want to know why Chase left Scotland Yard, a bit mysterious and a secret that I hope is revealed in future books. I will have to search it out.
I recommend this book for light, easy, enjoyable moments. Suitable for anyone, except perhaps collectors of snow domes! You will have to read the book to find out what I mean by that comment!
Chase Williams is real, or so I thought when I discovered his blog about living in Italy! What an inspired move by the author to create a whole reality around this character. I was quite shocked to realise that he was really a girl and the author.
Chase may be a member of the ‘Sherlock Holmes Club’ but his style of detecting is much less cryptic. He watches and waits, letting the pieces fall where they will, just waiting for the right moment to catch the killer. There was some lovely tongue in cheek moments, especially between him and his Italian friend, Angelo. I can still smell that cigarette smoke.
I loved how all the characters swirled around each other as the tensions built the momentum towards the climax.
I was even reading in an Italian accent! Excellent!
All in all this was a very enjoyable journey although I do want to know why Chase left Scotland Yard, a bit mysterious and a secret that I hope is revealed in future books. I will have to search it out.
I recommend this book for light, easy, enjoyable moments. Suitable for anyone, except perhaps collectors of snow domes! You will have to read the book to find out what I mean by that comment!
November 20, 2014
Into the Killer Sphere is the first novel in a new series - Chase Williams Detective Stories by Stefania Mattana. This cozy detective thriller and mystery is set in Italy. Chase Williams is a retired Scotland Yard detective who has moved to Italy. When an accidental death occurs in the home of a local wealthy family, the local police are suspicious. It looks more like murder, so lead investigator, Angelo Alunni, solicits Chase's help.
With plenty of suspects, fascinating clues, red herrings, and clever alibis, there is plenty to keep the reader on the edge of their seat guessing. And it all culminates in a gripping, satisfying ending readers will never see coming! Stefania Mattana's Italian roots and intimate knowledge of Italy brings the details of intriguing locations to the forefront in vivid imagery.
A good cozy mystery, an engrossing storyline, and a intriguing murder mystery offer up a very fine dish indeed! Imbibe! This book is definitely worth it. Keep your eye on Stefania Mattana! She is one author worth watching. Can't wait for her next novel.
With plenty of suspects, fascinating clues, red herrings, and clever alibis, there is plenty to keep the reader on the edge of their seat guessing. And it all culminates in a gripping, satisfying ending readers will never see coming! Stefania Mattana's Italian roots and intimate knowledge of Italy brings the details of intriguing locations to the forefront in vivid imagery.
A good cozy mystery, an engrossing storyline, and a intriguing murder mystery offer up a very fine dish indeed! Imbibe! This book is definitely worth it. Keep your eye on Stefania Mattana! She is one author worth watching. Can't wait for her next novel.
July 19, 2015
Murder mystery novels are a difficult genre to write. Not only does the crime itself, and the perpetrator, have to be hidden behind a barrage of red herrings and false clues, but they also need interesting characters to make them stand out from the crowd. Author Stefania Mattana’s ‘Into the Killer Sphere’ does all this and brings the added originality of setting the tale in the fictional location of Tursenia, a town in Etruscan Italy. This is a masterful stroke as it permits the writer to create not only pictorial scenes for the incidents in the book but some interesting characters the reader can’t imagine living anywhere else.
The tale itself is a classic, big-house whodunit where a deadly accident suddenly takes on the aspect of a clever murder. Clues, both false and real, are sprinkled throughout the novel to challenge the reader to arrive at the solution before the ex-British policeman with a checkered and mysterious past and his hapless cigarette-smoking Italian cop friend.
Recommended for fans of fascinating cozy mystery reads.
The tale itself is a classic, big-house whodunit where a deadly accident suddenly takes on the aspect of a clever murder. Clues, both false and real, are sprinkled throughout the novel to challenge the reader to arrive at the solution before the ex-British policeman with a checkered and mysterious past and his hapless cigarette-smoking Italian cop friend.
Recommended for fans of fascinating cozy mystery reads.
September 10, 2014
Into the Killer Sphere (Chase Williams Detective Stories, #1) by Stefania Mattana is a classy detective thriller mystery set in beautiful Italy. If like me you love Agatha Christie then this will not disappoint - it will fulfil all your detective mystery needs.
First you have the retired Scotland Yard detective, Chase Williams, who has found a beautiful ancient walled city in Italy to live in. But murder is never too far away and he uses his skills to help local police investigate a seemingly accidental death at a wealthy household.
Second, cue in the suspects, of which there are plenty, most have alibis and here the reader will have the most fun sorting out the evidence as it filters down to Chase.
Third, get blown away by the riveting finale which I will not use 1 word to describe. So settle down in front of the fire and help Chase solve this murder mystery.
FIVE STARS for this crime detective mystery that ticks all the boxes and then some. Very highly recommended.
First you have the retired Scotland Yard detective, Chase Williams, who has found a beautiful ancient walled city in Italy to live in. But murder is never too far away and he uses his skills to help local police investigate a seemingly accidental death at a wealthy household.
Second, cue in the suspects, of which there are plenty, most have alibis and here the reader will have the most fun sorting out the evidence as it filters down to Chase.
Third, get blown away by the riveting finale which I will not use 1 word to describe. So settle down in front of the fire and help Chase solve this murder mystery.
FIVE STARS for this crime detective mystery that ticks all the boxes and then some. Very highly recommended.
August 16, 2014
I read this Chase Williams detective story in an afternoon and enjoyed the easy pace and interesting tale. The lead character is a bit of ‘fish out of water’ type—a former Scotland Yard detective plopped down in Tursenia, Italy. There’s only a hint of back story about how that happened, so there may be more Chase Williams to come. The setting was pleasant, breezy even, and the characters amiable, even though there’s a murder at the center of the story. This quick read has an interesting cadence to the narrative. By that I mean that I could almost hear a lilt of Italian in this story even though it is written in English. I’d call this a “gentle” mystery and more novella than novel, given its length. Not much blood and guts, no one terrorizing anyone, although there’s a bit of skulking going on. If you enjoy ‘blue skies’ mysteries, like I do, then this is a book for you.
December 2, 2014
Murder By Chandelier?
Chase Williams is a former detective at Scotland Yard. His promising career cut short by a mysterious incident that had his superiors rushing him off to Italy. He settles in a small town called Tursenia, becoming an employee of the Ceccarelli Cashmere Company.
Although not officially working for the police any longer, he does help his childhood friend Angel Alunni whenever asked. In this story one of the residents of the town, Piero Galli, is found dead, apparently a victim of a fallen chandelier. Or is he? That is what Case and Detective Alunni must discover. This is an enjoyable mystery with colorful characters. I also enjoyed the setting of the story. I felt as if I were there with the pair of detectives.
Chase Williams is a former detective at Scotland Yard. His promising career cut short by a mysterious incident that had his superiors rushing him off to Italy. He settles in a small town called Tursenia, becoming an employee of the Ceccarelli Cashmere Company.
Although not officially working for the police any longer, he does help his childhood friend Angel Alunni whenever asked. In this story one of the residents of the town, Piero Galli, is found dead, apparently a victim of a fallen chandelier. Or is he? That is what Case and Detective Alunni must discover. This is an enjoyable mystery with colorful characters. I also enjoyed the setting of the story. I felt as if I were there with the pair of detectives.
January 6, 2015
'Into the Killing Sphere' introduces the reader to Chase Williams. He's a detective from Scotland Yard on a hiatus and staying in Italy. Chase's friend Piero, an Italian policeman, asks Chase to consult on a case. A member of a local wealthy family is killed in mysterious circumstances. It is up to Chase and Piero to weed through the families subterfuge to get to the bottom of the murder.
I liked the basic story but I found the story pretty basic with very little twists and turns that I've come to expect in the genre. The story may be a better read for some people and I wouldn't not recommend it but for me it just didn't work. I will however, read one more in the series to really get a feel for the author.
I liked the basic story but I found the story pretty basic with very little twists and turns that I've come to expect in the genre. The story may be a better read for some people and I wouldn't not recommend it but for me it just didn't work. I will however, read one more in the series to really get a feel for the author.
February 21, 2015
I loved Into the Killer Sphere from the first pages that picture our hero Chase Williams dealing with everyday things, in very the Cutting Right To The Chase style. The mystery plot is very simple yet intriguing: a domestic incident turns into a murder case as Williams best friend, a Tursenia police homicide detective, doubts about the accidental nature. It turns also out that all the family members involved in the death of Piero Galli have a reason to kill the man. Only Chase’s deductive skills and the help of Galli’s dogs can help Tursenia police close the case. This is a very traditional cozy mystery that finds its original flavour into the Italian setting and the side characters. A light pleasant reading for cozy mystery lovers.
April 27, 2015
Into the Killer Sphere is a short story featuring Chase Williams, the main character of the omonymous series of detective short stories. This time, Chase has to help his friend Inspector Alunni of Tursenia police solve a murder case. The plot is developed like the most classic whodunnit and I quite liked it, also because the book is the first of the Chase Williams Murder Mystery series - to me it’s good to start reading a series with some guarantees.
The potential suspects belong all to the same family and each of them has a good reason to kill the victim. The background of the story, which has a brilliant yet classic ending, is the beautiful Italy and its interesting lifestyle, so different than Chase’s. The main characters look very promising and look forward further evolutions.
The potential suspects belong all to the same family and each of them has a good reason to kill the victim. The background of the story, which has a brilliant yet classic ending, is the beautiful Italy and its interesting lifestyle, so different than Chase’s. The main characters look very promising and look forward further evolutions.
June 15, 2015
Having been introduced to Chase Williams in Cutting to The Chase, a series of short stories, I enjoyed spending more time with him while solving just one case, which, I admit didn't see coming until the reveal (chandelier or sphere?). Inspector Chase is a fish out of water in Italy and I enjoyed how he kept getting into trouble by his lack of understanding of the unfamiliar culture and behavior of the Italians. However, sometimes it's the outsider that can see more clearly and in this case, the local police detective, Angelo, is at a distinct disadvantage.
August 21, 2015
Mattana throws back a little in this Chase Williams novella, back to the origins of the mystery genre and the classic “cozy mystery.” In this one, Chase Williams is sent to the medieval Italian town of Tursenia to solve a grisly murder in a high class family. Chase is an offbeat, interesting hero whose awkwardness makes the story entertaining and interesting. Mattana’s cast of characters are fun and memorable, and I recommend this book for those looking for a good clean mystery with all the classic elements that make the genre great. Can’t wait to read more from this author!
September 13, 2016
I enjoyed this story as it has an air of the classic Sherlock Holmes stories. I greatly enjoy a good mystery and I though the author did a good job of playing out the evidence and then finding some unique twists and turns to lead the reader in one direction and then the other.
I think this story was a much better representation of the author's talent that the first short story I read "Cutting Right to the Chase".
I give the story a solid 4 of 5 stars
I think this story was a much better representation of the author's talent that the first short story I read "Cutting Right to the Chase".
I give the story a solid 4 of 5 stars
June 29, 2014
Chase, a former detective of Scotland Yard, who currently resides in Italy, offers to help his friend, inspector Alunni to solve the murder of Piero Galli, a wealthy resident of Tursenia. At first glance, it appears to be an accident, but Chase was not convinced. Mattana is an excellent story teller and moves the plot along at a good pace. The reader is taken along as Chase uses his intelligence along with inspector Alunni forensic skills to solve the case. Mystery lovers will enjoy this book.
January 10, 2014
Although I generally read more hardcore thriller/mystery novels, I thoroughly enjoyed Ms. Mattana's "Into the Killer Sphere" featuring Chase Williams. It's a light, fast and easy read and is set in Italy, one of my favorite places. I look forward to many more crime solving adventures by Mr. Williams.
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