What Doesn’t Shake You Makes You Write About It.
Hi, I’m Cristina Matta — award-winning mystery author, lifelong storyteller, and survivor of the 2007 earthquake in Peru.
I write across the mystery spectrum. My work ranges from sharp, satirical detective fiction to suspenseful, emotionally layered crime novels. My Crack the Case series turns the classic whodunit on its head. Outrageous plots, multiple endings to choose from, and a blog written by the lead detective himself. Ned’s Notes serves up real-life forensic facts, behind-the-scenes case commentary from the lead detective, and snark. Lots of snark.
Coming soon: a mystery novel inspired by my own experience surviving an 8.1 magnitude earthquake in Peru. It’s the first in a psychological suspense trilogy about trauma, corruption, and what happens when you return to a place forever changed.
Whether you’re here for a good laugh, a gripping plot, or a glimpse into crime scene procedure, there’s something for you. Dive in. Explore. And remember — mystery is best when it makes you think and smile.
Ready to dive in? Select a book cover to buy your copy.
How It Started
In 2007, I survived an 8.1-magnitude earthquake in Peru—an experience that changed my perspective on life and inspired me to write. I’ve always been drawn to mysteries, so writing my own felt like a natural step.
The first thing I wrote was about three pages of what happened during the earthquake. I didn’t want to keep explaining the same story to all curious friends and family, so I sent it out to everyone when I got home. Over the next few years, that story, found in Never Shaken: True Tales of Survival, morphed into a mystery novel. The Crack the Case series was born after a friend had strange experiences on a dating app. LIfe is full of strange experiences, and so is this series!
Why This Website?
Welcome to Crack the Case Books
Here, you can:
🕵️♂️ Explore interactive mystery series—from Detective Ned’s satirical investigations to Tamara’s high-stakes adventures through post-disaster Peru (coming soon!).
✍️ Get involved in the mystery-solving fun by submitting your own alternate endings to the Crack the Case series. Readers like you shape how the story ends! See how by reading the books.
📚 Read exclusive updates, sneak peeks, and behind-the-scenes stories. Discover insights about my writing process and character inspiration. Learn about the real-life events that sparked these tales.
📝 Check out Ned’s Notes—a companion blog featuring crime scene facts, detective commentary, and deeper dives into how stories unfold.
🌍 Connect with fellow readers and survivors of natural disasters to share your stories. You can decide to discuss the mysteries or reflect on resilience and recovery.
You might be here for a laugh. Or maybe you’re looking for a twist you didn’t see coming. Perhaps you want a chance to outsmart Detective Ned. I hope you find something enjoyable. Stay curious and keep coming back for more.
👋 Meet me “in person” here: The Face Behind the Mysteries – Crack the Case Series
Thanks for being part of the adventure! 🚀