What do you think?
Cutting Right to the Chase
He looks like a normal dude, but he’s not.Let me tell you his detective short stories in under 1000 words.

What if you are an ex British detective stuck in a stunning medieval Italian city? Ask Chase Williams – he will tell you many stories about his life in Tursenia.
He wanted a life changing scenario, so after he quit Scotland Yard he landed in beautiful Tursenia, a sunny Etruscan city in the heart of Italy. Despite Chase’s promise of not being involved in any crime scenes anymore, he always ends up dealing with minor offences and everyday crimes and mysteries happening just around the corner, where you may think nothing dark could ever occur.
In this first, tiny volume of the detective short stories series, Chase stumbles upon many minor and baffling offences that you might otherwise have missed. However, Chase’s investigative eye never sleeps.
Chase accompanies his childhood friend Inspector Angelo Alunni into a strange police adventure, and you will also meet some of the traditional Italian characters that populate Chase’s neighbourhood.
Chase’s six short stories all under 1000 words in length drag you into the coloured and mysterious world of Tursenia. These are detective short stories that will make you crave the rest of the series.

What if you are an ex British detective stuck in a stunning medieval Italian city? Ask Chase Williams – he will tell you many stories about his life in Tursenia.
He wanted a life changing scenario, so after he quit Scotland Yard he landed in beautiful Tursenia, a sunny Etruscan city in the heart of Italy. Despite Chase’s promise of not being involved in any crime scenes anymore, he always ends up dealing with minor offences and everyday crimes and mysteries happening just around the corner, where you may think nothing dark could ever occur.
In this first, tiny volume of the detective short stories series, Chase stumbles upon many minor and baffling offences that you might otherwise have missed. However, Chase’s investigative eye never sleeps.
Chase accompanies his childhood friend Inspector Angelo Alunni into a strange police adventure, and you will also meet some of the traditional Italian characters that populate Chase’s neighbourhood.
Chase’s six short stories all under 1000 words in length drag you into the coloured and mysterious world of Tursenia. These are detective short stories that will make you crave the rest of the series.
23 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 28, 2013
About the author
Stefania Mattana
19 books104 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
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
January 13, 2014
Cutting Right to the Chase by Stefania Mattana is a welcome respite from reading lengthy novels. The author has cleverly encapsulated Detective Chase Williams' life upon leaving Scotland Yard for Italy in six short stories. Each wonderful episode exudes charm Italian-style and left this reader wanting more. I especially enjoyed the shoplifting shorty as it reveals how crime can be under our very noses in the most mundane of circumstances.
Well done Stefania for accomplishing a difficult task with such panache and thoroughly entertaining me on so many levels. Can't wait to read book #2!
A FIVE STAR mystery compilation and highly recommended.
Well done Stefania for accomplishing a difficult task with such panache and thoroughly entertaining me on so many levels. Can't wait to read book #2!
A FIVE STAR mystery compilation and highly recommended.
April 18, 2014
6 short stories featuring Chase Williams, a former British policeman, now living and working in Italy in the city of Tursenia where criminal cases and episodes seem to follow him around; his detective background enables him to solve the criminal conundrums that keep peppering his attempts to live a normal existence. The stories involve a chase through the winding ancient streets of Tursenia’s medieval city centre; Chinese gangs; a gang of shoplifters; a fraudster; and even a pigeon-poisoner. They are witty, urbane, quirky and clever. Check them out. They are something special.
April 30, 2014
This book was a collection of short stories of the fortuitous detective, Chase Williams. Excellent read.
I really enjoyed this book. Haven't ever read a collection of short stories about the same person, but I found it engaging and interesting. In each story you find out a little more about the character, seeing him in different situations, in each, however, it seems that Chase solves cases with more luck than intuition. He always seems to be at the right place, doing the right thing, at the right time. Mattana writes well, in each short story the reader is fully engaged, and nothing is left out. the stories are quick, smart and flow very well. It is amazing to me to be able to pack so much and give the full picture in so few words.
I have Volume 2 of the series and will definitely read it. I highly recommend the book and the writer to everyone.
I really enjoyed this book. Haven't ever read a collection of short stories about the same person, but I found it engaging and interesting. In each story you find out a little more about the character, seeing him in different situations, in each, however, it seems that Chase solves cases with more luck than intuition. He always seems to be at the right place, doing the right thing, at the right time. Mattana writes well, in each short story the reader is fully engaged, and nothing is left out. the stories are quick, smart and flow very well. It is amazing to me to be able to pack so much and give the full picture in so few words.
I have Volume 2 of the series and will definitely read it. I highly recommend the book and the writer to everyone.
July 11, 2013
Imagine you're at the bus stop, or waiting at your GP surgery, or have only a few minutes available. You'd like to read something, but don't feel like starting a new book, or continue reading a full novel. You could do with a short read, something brief that entertains you, something with a beginning and an end. Well, this is exactly the kind of thing you need. A collection of short stories, 1,000 words each. It takes you about 10 minutes to read each one of them.
Chase Williams used to be police officer in Scotland Yard. For reasons not yet revealed, he moved to Italy and he's now working for an import/export Company in Tursenia, a lovely medieval city.
There are six crimes depicted, one for each story. They are quite unusual crimes, and yet credible. Somehow Chase finds himself involved, often unwillingly. I loved the way he faces these bizarre situations, his attitude towards the local people and his dry British sense of humour. He's never awkward, despite the fact that his cultural background is very different. He fits in well, and his ironic take on Italian life is quite endearing. Probably because of his past, he's able to figure out what is going on in the various situations he faces. This book is a little gem, I'd love to read more about this author.
Chase Williams used to be police officer in Scotland Yard. For reasons not yet revealed, he moved to Italy and he's now working for an import/export Company in Tursenia, a lovely medieval city.
There are six crimes depicted, one for each story. They are quite unusual crimes, and yet credible. Somehow Chase finds himself involved, often unwillingly. I loved the way he faces these bizarre situations, his attitude towards the local people and his dry British sense of humour. He's never awkward, despite the fact that his cultural background is very different. He fits in well, and his ironic take on Italian life is quite endearing. Probably because of his past, he's able to figure out what is going on in the various situations he faces. This book is a little gem, I'd love to read more about this author.
January 13, 2014
"Cutting Right to the Chase" by Stefania Mattana is a selection of several very short crime stories, all rather unusual and very entertaining. With powers of oberservation, wit and some with great humour they describe odd cases and mysteries solved by former British detective Chase Williams, who now lives and works in Italy.
The stories are anecdotal in nature, clever, well told and very worth while reading.
Great entertainment.
The stories are anecdotal in nature, clever, well told and very worth while reading.
Great entertainment.
April 22, 2014
Very interesting stories.
I'm not the type who would read this type of books because they typically don't interest me. However, this book was recommended by a friend , so i decided to give a try. I'm going to consider similar books like these in the future.
Good stories.
I'm not the type who would read this type of books because they typically don't interest me. However, this book was recommended by a friend , so i decided to give a try. I'm going to consider similar books like these in the future.
Good stories.
July 3, 2013
Scroll down for the English version
Fulminanti e taglienti
Questa piccola raccolta di racconti ha in sé tanta originalità, a iniziare dall'accostamento tra un ex-detective inglese che vive in Italia. Questo aspetto già di per sé permette di mettere a confronto le caratteristiche personali di un personaggio tipicamente british in un ambientazione che per lui è in qualche modo esotica.
Un secondo elemento di originalità è la scelta di scrivere dei piccoli racconti di appena mille parole fatti su misura per una lettura rubata nei cosiddetti tempi morti, per esempio quando ci si muove in autobus o sulla metro. Questa scelta rappresenta un piccolo esperimento letterario che merita un plauso a prescindere da tutto il resto, poiché si propone a un target ben preciso.
Il terzo elemento di originalità è l'autrice, nata e cresciuta in Italia, che si cimenta con grande maestria nella sua seconda lingua, riuscendo a trasmettere al lettore l'autorevolezza del madrelingua sia per quanto riguarda lo stile in sé sia per il modo in cui si cala nel protagonista Chase Williams.
A tutti questi elementi, che sarebbero sufficienti a suscitare la curiosità del lettore di questo genere, si aggiungono delle ottime storie, delle vere e proprie perle, che si fanno leggere in un attimo, non solo per la brevità ma soprattutto per la capacità di catturare l'attenzione e obbligarti ad andare avanti fino alla fine. E succede che dopo il primo racconto non puoi fare altro che passare al secondo, e poi al terzo e così via.
Dopo questo breve sguardo nel mondo letterario di Stefania Mattana sarei proprio curiosa di immergermi di nuovo in esso, magari all'interno di un bel romanzo.
Fast and... cutting
This small collection of short stories has so much originality in itself, starting from the combination of an English (former) detective living in Italy. This aspect in itself allows us to compare the personal characteristics of a typically British character in a setting which for him is somehow exotic.
A second element of originality is the choice to write short stories of just a thousand words made for a "stolen" reading in the so-called idle time, for example when travelling by bus or on the tube. This choice represents a small literary experiment that deserves praise apart from all the rest, since it is proposed to a specific target.
The third element of originality is the author, born and raised in Italy, who is wrestling with great skill in his second language, managing to convey to the reader the authority of the mother tongue both in terms of style and for the way in which she is able identify herself in the protagonist Chase Williams.
To all these elements, which would be sufficient to arouse the curiosity of the reader of this genre, you add some great stories, some real pearls, which let themselves be read in a moment, not only for the sake of brevity but also for the ability to capture your attention and force you to go on until the end. And it happens that after the first story you cannot help but move to the second one and then the third one and so on.
After this brief look into the literary world by Stefania Mattana I'd be curious to dive back into it, maybe in a good crime novel.
Fulminanti e taglienti
Questa piccola raccolta di racconti ha in sé tanta originalità, a iniziare dall'accostamento tra un ex-detective inglese che vive in Italia. Questo aspetto già di per sé permette di mettere a confronto le caratteristiche personali di un personaggio tipicamente british in un ambientazione che per lui è in qualche modo esotica.
Un secondo elemento di originalità è la scelta di scrivere dei piccoli racconti di appena mille parole fatti su misura per una lettura rubata nei cosiddetti tempi morti, per esempio quando ci si muove in autobus o sulla metro. Questa scelta rappresenta un piccolo esperimento letterario che merita un plauso a prescindere da tutto il resto, poiché si propone a un target ben preciso.
Il terzo elemento di originalità è l'autrice, nata e cresciuta in Italia, che si cimenta con grande maestria nella sua seconda lingua, riuscendo a trasmettere al lettore l'autorevolezza del madrelingua sia per quanto riguarda lo stile in sé sia per il modo in cui si cala nel protagonista Chase Williams.
A tutti questi elementi, che sarebbero sufficienti a suscitare la curiosità del lettore di questo genere, si aggiungono delle ottime storie, delle vere e proprie perle, che si fanno leggere in un attimo, non solo per la brevità ma soprattutto per la capacità di catturare l'attenzione e obbligarti ad andare avanti fino alla fine. E succede che dopo il primo racconto non puoi fare altro che passare al secondo, e poi al terzo e così via.
Dopo questo breve sguardo nel mondo letterario di Stefania Mattana sarei proprio curiosa di immergermi di nuovo in esso, magari all'interno di un bel romanzo.
Fast and... cutting
This small collection of short stories has so much originality in itself, starting from the combination of an English (former) detective living in Italy. This aspect in itself allows us to compare the personal characteristics of a typically British character in a setting which for him is somehow exotic.
A second element of originality is the choice to write short stories of just a thousand words made for a "stolen" reading in the so-called idle time, for example when travelling by bus or on the tube. This choice represents a small literary experiment that deserves praise apart from all the rest, since it is proposed to a specific target.
The third element of originality is the author, born and raised in Italy, who is wrestling with great skill in his second language, managing to convey to the reader the authority of the mother tongue both in terms of style and for the way in which she is able identify herself in the protagonist Chase Williams.
To all these elements, which would be sufficient to arouse the curiosity of the reader of this genre, you add some great stories, some real pearls, which let themselves be read in a moment, not only for the sake of brevity but also for the ability to capture your attention and force you to go on until the end. And it happens that after the first story you cannot help but move to the second one and then the third one and so on.
After this brief look into the literary world by Stefania Mattana I'd be curious to dive back into it, maybe in a good crime novel.
August 25, 2013
Thank you to the author for a copy of this book to review.
This is a collection of short stories featuring former Scotland Yard detective Chase Williams. Each one depicts a rather unusual case that Chase finds himself embroiled in, sometimes when he would really rather not!
This is such a terrific little book to just have on your kindle for those odd moments where you are waiting for something and can't read for long, or like me, have a Sunday Afternoon where you just want to dip into something fun and involving. Each story is short and sweet - I would say the average reader could complete one in 15 minutes. All are intriguing and Chase is a perfect character to spend a few moments with and its a joy to go along with him as he solves some rather intriguing mysteries. He has a dry sense of humour and an ironic outlook - I related to him very well.
There are 6 stories in the collection, each one a little reading gem. Highly recommended for anyone who is trying to reboot their reading self and for those of us who love a quick, easy short story just to get us through the odd moment of boredom. Great stuff.
Happy Reading Folks!
This is a collection of short stories featuring former Scotland Yard detective Chase Williams. Each one depicts a rather unusual case that Chase finds himself embroiled in, sometimes when he would really rather not!
This is such a terrific little book to just have on your kindle for those odd moments where you are waiting for something and can't read for long, or like me, have a Sunday Afternoon where you just want to dip into something fun and involving. Each story is short and sweet - I would say the average reader could complete one in 15 minutes. All are intriguing and Chase is a perfect character to spend a few moments with and its a joy to go along with him as he solves some rather intriguing mysteries. He has a dry sense of humour and an ironic outlook - I related to him very well.
There are 6 stories in the collection, each one a little reading gem. Highly recommended for anyone who is trying to reboot their reading self and for those of us who love a quick, easy short story just to get us through the odd moment of boredom. Great stuff.
Happy Reading Folks!
January 20, 2014
This is a collection of short stories featuring Chase Williams. I enjoyed the odd snip its of stories that occur to this interesting individual. Each story was of a different situation, so the plots were developed quickly before moving on to the next story. I will look for a full length story featuring this interesting ex-cop.
Thanks to the author for allowing me to read this book in exchange for a review. My rating is an unbiased 4 out of 5 stars.
Thanks to the author for allowing me to read this book in exchange for a review. My rating is an unbiased 4 out of 5 stars.
February 2, 2014
I obtained a copy of Cutting Right To the Chase from the author, Stefania Mattana, through Goodreads - a free e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The six short stories were well written, intriguing, fast paced and enjoyable. Easily read in one sitting. The stories certainly wet my appetite for a longer tale as I usually do not read short stories, longer novels being my usual fare.
The six short stories were well written, intriguing, fast paced and enjoyable. Easily read in one sitting. The stories certainly wet my appetite for a longer tale as I usually do not read short stories, longer novels being my usual fare.
November 10, 2013
I was asked to review this book. it was well written and left me wanting more. can't wait to read a full book written by this author.
May 10, 2014
I liked the fact that this is a collection of unrelated short stories all involving an ex-patriot British detective living in a small town in Italy. Even though he struggles with the language and customs, his nose for crime and mischief is not at all impeded. The crimes he gets himself involved in range from the petty to the seriously criminal and all of them have a sweet charm which brings a smile to the lips.
July 9, 2013
Cutting Right to the Chase consists of 6 short stories where Chase Williams, a former Scotland Yard detective who moved to Italy, always ends up uncovering some dirty business going on.
1,000 words per story make reading this book a breeze; accessible to everyone and in every situation (in line at the post office or at the bank, travelling on a train or on the bus, or just standing in the kitchen waiting for your pasta).
I liked how we're thrown straight in the middle of the action, rather than learning all the details first; and I loved how we can catch hints and glimpses of the Italian culture and lifestyle throughout the entire book (street names, cities structure, people).
Speaking of which: the author is from Italy and I guess we can see that popping up sometimes, but she's done a really good job. I mean, writing a book in a language other than your own? Wow! I am honestly impressed, and I can't wait for the next one. And whatever your currency is, at this price, it's a steal! Recommended.
1,000 words per story make reading this book a breeze; accessible to everyone and in every situation (in line at the post office or at the bank, travelling on a train or on the bus, or just standing in the kitchen waiting for your pasta).
I liked how we're thrown straight in the middle of the action, rather than learning all the details first; and I loved how we can catch hints and glimpses of the Italian culture and lifestyle throughout the entire book (street names, cities structure, people).
Speaking of which: the author is from Italy and I guess we can see that popping up sometimes, but she's done a really good job. I mean, writing a book in a language other than your own? Wow! I am honestly impressed, and I can't wait for the next one. And whatever your currency is, at this price, it's a steal! Recommended.
July 2, 2013
A collection of short stories that are more like flashes illuminating bits of the main character's life. And what an interesting life Chase happens to live, albeit quite unwillingly! A Brit policeman in his mid 30s, who moved to a fascinating little medieval town in central Italy. Chase goes about saying very little and thinking a good deal more than most people, and so he keeps stumbling upon everyday mysteries and crimes, that he typically can't help but solve.
Mattana's sober writing has what it takes to capture the reader and have him asking for more. I wish she gave us more descriptions and details, but this might be just my personal taste. I was left with many questions, about the intriguing mr. Chase: how did he end up there? What about his past? What does he look like, since I've got a feeling he's pretty interesting? I trust the author will provide us with more fascinating adventures of this mystery Brit very soon.
Mattana's sober writing has what it takes to capture the reader and have him asking for more. I wish she gave us more descriptions and details, but this might be just my personal taste. I was left with many questions, about the intriguing mr. Chase: how did he end up there? What about his past? What does he look like, since I've got a feeling he's pretty interesting? I trust the author will provide us with more fascinating adventures of this mystery Brit very soon.
October 10, 2013
This collection of short stories featuring Chase Williams, former British policeman now living in an Italian medieval city, can be read in one sitting. Chase uses his acute powers of observation to catch perpetrators. It's a mix of mundane and imaginative tales that whet the appetite for heartier fare.
January 19, 2014
Cutting Right to the Chase Vol.1 by Stefania MattanaI is an awesome read!
Short crime stories which are fun to read and fast-paced, I really enjoyed Chase. His character is highly intelligent and he is always there when there is a crime and in his calm matter-of-fact way he exposes the criminals.
I love this series and can't wait to read the next one, I have bought all three and since they are short stories, I will review them all.
This author is very talented and knows how to bring the reader in immediately and hold their attention.
I know that her next books in this series will be as fast-paced and exciting as this one! I can't wait to find out more about Chase!
5 stars for Cutting Right to the Chase and this Brilliant and talented author!
Short crime stories which are fun to read and fast-paced, I really enjoyed Chase. His character is highly intelligent and he is always there when there is a crime and in his calm matter-of-fact way he exposes the criminals.
I love this series and can't wait to read the next one, I have bought all three and since they are short stories, I will review them all.
This author is very talented and knows how to bring the reader in immediately and hold their attention.
I know that her next books in this series will be as fast-paced and exciting as this one! I can't wait to find out more about Chase!
5 stars for Cutting Right to the Chase and this Brilliant and talented author!
January 19, 2014
This is a wonderful collection of short stories featuring Chase Williams, a former worker for the infamous Scotland Yard, now living in Italy but not getting a lot of relaxing done! He's got a brilliant eye on him and tends to wind up in situations where that comes in handy.
The author has a way of telling crisp refreshing stories in only a few pages. All of the stories in this collection are extremely well written and take the reader on a fun trip filled with entertaining characters and endings that will leave you either laughing or looking back to see where you missed what Chase saw right from the start.
I really enjoyed this short story collection and am looking forward to reading more from this author.
The author has a way of telling crisp refreshing stories in only a few pages. All of the stories in this collection are extremely well written and take the reader on a fun trip filled with entertaining characters and endings that will leave you either laughing or looking back to see where you missed what Chase saw right from the start.
I really enjoyed this short story collection and am looking forward to reading more from this author.
January 10, 2014
I don't generally read short stories, but I liked the author's book "Into the Killer Sphere" that I thought I'd read her short stories featuring the same main character, Chase Williams. Ms. Mattana has done a great job using only 1,000 words for each of these stories. They're fast, they're easy, they're well written. I look forward to her next volume.
December 28, 2021
It is often said that some people are just born to do something. Unlike the common masses, their skill comes naturally to them and permeates their very core- whether they like it or not. It can never be put away or shut off as it is just who they are. They could be a born leader, teacher, doctor, or... detective! In Cutting Right to the Chase by author Stefania Mattana, we see a prime example of this. A good read for fans of short, snappy crime stories.
Essentially, the book is a collection of short stories which follow the escapades of former Scotland Yard detective, Chase Williams. Having resettled in the beautiful country of Italy, Chase cannot help but run into a series of crimes and mysteries which need solving. As readers, we are introduced to a group of shoplifters, con artists, and even an animal poisoner. All of these folks have one unfortunate thing in common... they are directly in the sightline of Chase Williams! Will the born detective manage to solve all the crimes... or is he finally beginning to lose his touch?
The actual composition of this collection of stories is quite distinct. Each one stands at 1000 words which makes for a very quick read. They are obviously designed with that purpose in mind and will definitely appeal to those readers looking for a quick "fix" of flash fiction. To be able to fully develop the plot in such a short story is a challenge all unto itself. The author does this quite well as the reader will find themselves easily engaged in the story events. There is precious little time for long, flowing descriptions, and instead we are thrown smack dab into the action right from the onset. The events are undeniably vivid and action-packed. While the resolutions do seem to be predictable, the manner in which we get there is rare and refreshing.
In regards to character development, Chase is the only one of any significance. Due to the flash fiction style, there is not a lot of opportunity to develop Chase or any other characters in great detail. Nevertheless, I do find that placing Chase in the new and foreign setting of Italy does manage to start setting up the potential to discover more about him and his inner thoughts. Be that as it may, I did find that I was left wanting to know more about Chase and what it is that makes him tick.
All in all, if you are looking for a good and quick read, this collection of stories could certainly fit the bill. Smart and sassy in content and delivery.
3 out of 5 Gumshoe Stars for this one!
Essentially, the book is a collection of short stories which follow the escapades of former Scotland Yard detective, Chase Williams. Having resettled in the beautiful country of Italy, Chase cannot help but run into a series of crimes and mysteries which need solving. As readers, we are introduced to a group of shoplifters, con artists, and even an animal poisoner. All of these folks have one unfortunate thing in common... they are directly in the sightline of Chase Williams! Will the born detective manage to solve all the crimes... or is he finally beginning to lose his touch?
The actual composition of this collection of stories is quite distinct. Each one stands at 1000 words which makes for a very quick read. They are obviously designed with that purpose in mind and will definitely appeal to those readers looking for a quick "fix" of flash fiction. To be able to fully develop the plot in such a short story is a challenge all unto itself. The author does this quite well as the reader will find themselves easily engaged in the story events. There is precious little time for long, flowing descriptions, and instead we are thrown smack dab into the action right from the onset. The events are undeniably vivid and action-packed. While the resolutions do seem to be predictable, the manner in which we get there is rare and refreshing.
In regards to character development, Chase is the only one of any significance. Due to the flash fiction style, there is not a lot of opportunity to develop Chase or any other characters in great detail. Nevertheless, I do find that placing Chase in the new and foreign setting of Italy does manage to start setting up the potential to discover more about him and his inner thoughts. Be that as it may, I did find that I was left wanting to know more about Chase and what it is that makes him tick.
All in all, if you are looking for a good and quick read, this collection of stories could certainly fit the bill. Smart and sassy in content and delivery.
3 out of 5 Gumshoe Stars for this one!
November 7, 2013
1.5 stars
Although I read Cutting Right to the Chase before I read the first Chase Williams novel, Into the Killer Sphere, I postponed writing my review to see if the deeper characterization normally found in a novel would show these brief "stories" in a better light. As my review of Into the Killer Sphere indicates, however, Williams was not a fully fleshed-out character there, so it is no surprise that he retained his cardboard nature in this shorter format.
I have referred to the contents of Cutting Right to the Chase as "stories" because that is how Mattana describes them. To me, however, these were not stories; they were, at best, brief vignettes in which Williams interacted superficially with some type of crime. Nothing about these crimes was "baffling," as the Goodreads summary suggests; far from being impressed by Williams's detective skills, I was left wondering how he could ever have been employed by the London Metropolitan Police.
Only one entry in this collection, "Mind Your Business Card," actually involved any sort of deduction. Far from saving the story, however, the clue on which Williams relies made this the worst in the book because there was no way that the reader could have understood its significance. Much of the fun of reading a mystery is in trying to decipher the clues before the protagonist does; that experience is entirely frustrated when the author gives the protagonist knowledge that was never disclosed to the reader.
I received a free copy of Cutting Right to the Chase from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Although I read Cutting Right to the Chase before I read the first Chase Williams novel, Into the Killer Sphere, I postponed writing my review to see if the deeper characterization normally found in a novel would show these brief "stories" in a better light. As my review of Into the Killer Sphere indicates, however, Williams was not a fully fleshed-out character there, so it is no surprise that he retained his cardboard nature in this shorter format.
I have referred to the contents of Cutting Right to the Chase as "stories" because that is how Mattana describes them. To me, however, these were not stories; they were, at best, brief vignettes in which Williams interacted superficially with some type of crime. Nothing about these crimes was "baffling," as the Goodreads summary suggests; far from being impressed by Williams's detective skills, I was left wondering how he could ever have been employed by the London Metropolitan Police.
Only one entry in this collection, "Mind Your Business Card," actually involved any sort of deduction. Far from saving the story, however, the clue on which Williams relies made this the worst in the book because there was no way that the reader could have understood its significance. Much of the fun of reading a mystery is in trying to decipher the clues before the protagonist does; that experience is entirely frustrated when the author gives the protagonist knowledge that was never disclosed to the reader.
I received a free copy of Cutting Right to the Chase from the author in exchange for an honest review.
November 18, 2018
I'm sure this would be more enjoyable for someone who already knows the character, but these are not very good stand-alone flash-fiction stories. It's a couple of pages of the amazing Chase, cop extraordinaire, catching some teenage shoplifters, or a guy involved in a drug racket. Seemed a bit over the top and gratuitous to me, for the payoff..
January 4, 2015
This is an interesting concept - a selection of 1000-word stories involving the author's Chase Williams character, contained in two volumes. I like the idea and I think it is a good way for writers to clear their heads and make space for a Big Story and it also provides the reader with more insight into existing characters.
However, it is a challenging feat to fit much PLOT into 1000 words. I would describe most of these as sketches, brief glimpses of events in Chase's busy life. I've only read one prior work by the author, Into the Killer Sphere, so I am not overly familiar with the character, but I have to mention that the editing of the first book was much better than in these short stories. The author acknowledges that English is not her first language, but I never noticed that in Sphere. In this collection, awkward phrasing and unusual use of words stood out a couple of times. I believe that this collection could benefit with some reworking of a few sentences and overall polishing of the text.
Since some stories were more successful than others, I will write a short review of each.
Place your bets
This is a frenetically paced tale of a police bust nearly gone wrong. The lively setting comes across, but I was thrown by some of the aforementioned awkward phrasing.
The Crab and the Fox
I would call this my favourite story of the collection. It was unexpected and got a chuckle out of me.
It's all about labels
Decent enough, although the resolution fell a bit flat for me. I found myself wondering about whether this strategy is really feasible. Chase seemed really out of place in this setting, which was amusing.
Instincts of a tiger
Another amusing one about one of Chase's neighbours.
Mind your business card
Although I got the gist, I found this plotline difficult to follow.
Shadows of Tom Thumb
This was a sad sketch, very somber and depressing. The mood came across very well.
However, it is a challenging feat to fit much PLOT into 1000 words. I would describe most of these as sketches, brief glimpses of events in Chase's busy life. I've only read one prior work by the author, Into the Killer Sphere, so I am not overly familiar with the character, but I have to mention that the editing of the first book was much better than in these short stories. The author acknowledges that English is not her first language, but I never noticed that in Sphere. In this collection, awkward phrasing and unusual use of words stood out a couple of times. I believe that this collection could benefit with some reworking of a few sentences and overall polishing of the text.
Since some stories were more successful than others, I will write a short review of each.
Place your bets
This is a frenetically paced tale of a police bust nearly gone wrong. The lively setting comes across, but I was thrown by some of the aforementioned awkward phrasing.
The Crab and the Fox
I would call this my favourite story of the collection. It was unexpected and got a chuckle out of me.
It's all about labels
Decent enough, although the resolution fell a bit flat for me. I found myself wondering about whether this strategy is really feasible. Chase seemed really out of place in this setting, which was amusing.
Instincts of a tiger
Another amusing one about one of Chase's neighbours.
Mind your business card
Although I got the gist, I found this plotline difficult to follow.
Shadows of Tom Thumb
This was a sad sketch, very somber and depressing. The mood came across very well.
January 19, 2015
Stefania Mattana’s Cutting Right to the Chase is something of a little wonder: a short introduction to Chase Williams, an English cop residing in Italy, by way of 6 individual flash fiction stories.
These short stories have a charm of their own and are presented in the 3rd person by an unknown narrator who somehow invokes a Dr Watson-type presence, if here via a quiet and invisible, meticulous observer.
The stories aren’t fantastic in their themes, or executions: their entertaining-value is in their thought-provoking simplicity, as well as in their frequent portrayals of the odd slight culture clash between Italian and British ways of going about things, on a day-to-day basis.
Further to that, being a linguist myself, I have been rather fascinated by the individual ‘voice’ of the narration, which affords the stories an added dynamic. That is, although in perfect English, they partly read like ‘foreignised’ translations from Italian – only partly – like a blend of Americano/Italian English, which all adds to the atmosphere: certain things are expressed in a way I probably wouldn’t express them, in what I’ll call a quirky way, in the very positive sense of the word.
Stefania Mattana is an author to look out for, I see real potential in these stories, for they seem to put fun back into crime – I’ve since unearthed my collection of Conan-Doyle; they’ve got me right in the mood. And I wouldn’t be surprised if they one day make their way into the cinema.
Yes. Atmospheric, and so addictive. Recommended.
These short stories have a charm of their own and are presented in the 3rd person by an unknown narrator who somehow invokes a Dr Watson-type presence, if here via a quiet and invisible, meticulous observer.
The stories aren’t fantastic in their themes, or executions: their entertaining-value is in their thought-provoking simplicity, as well as in their frequent portrayals of the odd slight culture clash between Italian and British ways of going about things, on a day-to-day basis.
Further to that, being a linguist myself, I have been rather fascinated by the individual ‘voice’ of the narration, which affords the stories an added dynamic. That is, although in perfect English, they partly read like ‘foreignised’ translations from Italian – only partly – like a blend of Americano/Italian English, which all adds to the atmosphere: certain things are expressed in a way I probably wouldn’t express them, in what I’ll call a quirky way, in the very positive sense of the word.
Stefania Mattana is an author to look out for, I see real potential in these stories, for they seem to put fun back into crime – I’ve since unearthed my collection of Conan-Doyle; they’ve got me right in the mood. And I wouldn’t be surprised if they one day make their way into the cinema.
Yes. Atmospheric, and so addictive. Recommended.
June 11, 2014
NEVER A DULL MOMENT WITH CHASE!
The title of this book, Cutting Right to the Chase definitely sets the tone for this fun read. This is the first book I've read by author Stefania Mattana and this short story collection is a stimulating change from my usual reading.
Chase Williams' investigative skills are alive and well despite his relocation to Italy and change of career. Ex Scotland Yard investigator Williams detects the unusual in what appear to be very typical human behaviors, analyzes the situations, tracks his 'unsuspecting suspects' and with minimal effort solves crimes.
Mattana is credited with developing a story line and solving a mystery in 1000 words--not an easy task! Each of her stories is unique and refreshing. She ensures that Investigator Chase William's scientific exploration of each crime stops just short of moralizing; "I'm not here to judge you, I'm here to warn you."
I'm impressed with Ms. Mattana's easy style of writing; the stories flow one to the other. I can't wait to read Volume 2 of the Chase Williams series. Kudos Ms. Mattana on a job well done!
The title of this book, Cutting Right to the Chase definitely sets the tone for this fun read. This is the first book I've read by author Stefania Mattana and this short story collection is a stimulating change from my usual reading.
Chase Williams' investigative skills are alive and well despite his relocation to Italy and change of career. Ex Scotland Yard investigator Williams detects the unusual in what appear to be very typical human behaviors, analyzes the situations, tracks his 'unsuspecting suspects' and with minimal effort solves crimes.
Mattana is credited with developing a story line and solving a mystery in 1000 words--not an easy task! Each of her stories is unique and refreshing. She ensures that Investigator Chase William's scientific exploration of each crime stops just short of moralizing; "I'm not here to judge you, I'm here to warn you."
I'm impressed with Ms. Mattana's easy style of writing; the stories flow one to the other. I can't wait to read Volume 2 of the Chase Williams series. Kudos Ms. Mattana on a job well done!
August 4, 2014
It wasn't until recently, when I started working super long hours (18 a day) that I got into short stories. This was one of the first books of short stories I bought, but it wasn't until recently that I made my way around to reading the stories, one per day to help me relax after work and before bed. Although, I would say the act of reading was certainly more relaxing that these stories myself! These stories made me laugh and the quick pace and conflicts created perfect tension. Chase was just an awesome character to carry out these short stories. I really enjoyed the voice in these stories. Look forward to more!
January 10, 2014
I was given this for free by the author in exchange for an honest review so here it is.
I’m a fan of crime fiction, detective stories and all things Italian so the Chase Williams short stories seemed rather an appealing read. The stories are indeed short, quirky and pithy. I am full of admiration for the author for writing in a language which is not her mother tongue and that is no mean feat. The author has done a fantastic job with Chase Williams and I look forward to reading more of her work. If you have a spare half an hour this will entertain you.
I’m a fan of crime fiction, detective stories and all things Italian so the Chase Williams short stories seemed rather an appealing read. The stories are indeed short, quirky and pithy. I am full of admiration for the author for writing in a language which is not her mother tongue and that is no mean feat. The author has done a fantastic job with Chase Williams and I look forward to reading more of her work. If you have a spare half an hour this will entertain you.
June 30, 2014
Flash Fiction at Its Best!
This collection of short short-stories raises the art of flash fiction to an entirely new level. The author has masterfully created six crime mysteries featuring the same protagonist. Each story is self-contained and complete, but adds to the readers understanding of the main character. The writing style is fast paced, exciting, and light with just the right touch of humor. I highly recommend this very clever collection. I intend to read volume two and the author’s novella. They also feature the same protagonist.
This collection of short short-stories raises the art of flash fiction to an entirely new level. The author has masterfully created six crime mysteries featuring the same protagonist. Each story is self-contained and complete, but adds to the readers understanding of the main character. The writing style is fast paced, exciting, and light with just the right touch of humor. I highly recommend this very clever collection. I intend to read volume two and the author’s novella. They also feature the same protagonist.
July 8, 2014
You can see why this novella is so highly rated on Goodreads - It really is that good. It's perfect reading during your lunch break, as are her others. The stories follow Chase Williams, a former Scotland Yard detective who cannot help but continue to observe, wonder and investigate in a small town in Italy. Whether it's mundane crimes or not, this sort of reminds me of the film Hot Fuzz, where you think nothing could possibly happen in such a small town. My slugs and I loved that film and we love this book. Short, snappy, well-written and edited - great for our fast-paced lifestyles.
April 27, 2015
Cutting Right to the Chase Vol.1 is a very brief collection of mystery and detective short stories. The main character, Chase Williams, is a former British detective now living in Italy. It looks like he often comes across minor everyday mysteries to solve and sometimes he helps out his friend Inspector on major cases.
It’s shame that this tiny ebook features only six stories. I read it within a blink of an eye and left me with the curiosity of finding more about Chase and the city of Tursenia.
The writing style is very smooth and clean and put the plots in the close-up.
August 13, 2014
The ability to write short stories is truly an art in and of itself, way more difficult than writing a typical novel, that's for sure. The author pulls this off flawlessly. The characters are well rounded, lovable, and the plot is well thought out and sealed tight. If you are looking for a wonderful collection of short crime stories that include all the above - this is definitely the way to go. Looking forward to the next one!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews