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Ali Falco #1
The Como Falcon
In this pulse-pounding international mystery novel by Amazon 2-million copy bestselling author Jeff Carson, Detective Ali Falco is on a collision course with a vicious killer lying in wait among the ancient streets of Como, Italy.
Ali Falco longs to prove her mettle as a Polizia di Stato detective, but it’s tough with the Carabinieri taking over any high-profile cases, and the politics inside her department pushing her to the fringes of any action that pops up. So when a dead body emerges from the limestone soil above Lake Como—a young woman who’s been missing for years—Ali is resigned to read about it in the local paper.
Soon after, death strikes again, this time much closer, and no rank or politics can push her out of involvement with this one, because the deceased is her father.
They were tightly bonded until her mother’s death thrust a divide between them. It’s been ten years since she’s spoken to him, and it would have been the rest of her life had he lived, but something about her father’s death doesn’t look right. It looks like murder. And hate him or not, he’s family, and she’s a sworn detective.
With the help of an Interpol investigator named Marco, an intriguing man with a complicated past himself, Ali sets aside the pain of her history and looks into the last decade of her father’s life in order to shed light on his death, revealing truths that are more shocking than than she could have imagined.
With each detail uncovered, Ali and Marco draw closer to unraveling a web of disturbing lies, and to an unseen enemy that will do anything it takes to remain hidden, one that will stop at nothing to keep the secrets of the past in the past, and Ali in the dark. Forever.
Ali Falco longs to prove her mettle as a Polizia di Stato detective, but it’s tough with the Carabinieri taking over any high-profile cases, and the politics inside her department pushing her to the fringes of any action that pops up. So when a dead body emerges from the limestone soil above Lake Como—a young woman who’s been missing for years—Ali is resigned to read about it in the local paper.
Soon after, death strikes again, this time much closer, and no rank or politics can push her out of involvement with this one, because the deceased is her father.
They were tightly bonded until her mother’s death thrust a divide between them. It’s been ten years since she’s spoken to him, and it would have been the rest of her life had he lived, but something about her father’s death doesn’t look right. It looks like murder. And hate him or not, he’s family, and she’s a sworn detective.
With the help of an Interpol investigator named Marco, an intriguing man with a complicated past himself, Ali sets aside the pain of her history and looks into the last decade of her father’s life in order to shed light on his death, revealing truths that are more shocking than than she could have imagined.
With each detail uncovered, Ali and Marco draw closer to unraveling a web of disturbing lies, and to an unseen enemy that will do anything it takes to remain hidden, one that will stop at nothing to keep the secrets of the past in the past, and Ali in the dark. Forever.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 14, 2022
1853 people are currently reading
206 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Carson
44 books676 followersJeff Carson is from the Front Range of Colorado where he lives with his wife and two sons. His David Wolf series of books takes place in the fictional ski town of Rocky Points, Colorado.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
June 19, 2022
Como Falcon
The David Wolf series are some of my favorites, the ones you feel you have to get the next one as soon as you finish the one you are reading. I found this first Ali Falco book lacking in many ways, slow and lacking in engagement. I did not particularly like the characters or the depth of the storyline. I will definitely read the next David Wolf but will not be reading Ali Falco.
The David Wolf series are some of my favorites, the ones you feel you have to get the next one as soon as you finish the one you are reading. I found this first Ali Falco book lacking in many ways, slow and lacking in engagement. I did not particularly like the characters or the depth of the storyline. I will definitely read the next David Wolf but will not be reading Ali Falco.
May 25, 2024
2.5 rounded up. A simple read with pretty likeable characters and a good but basic plot. The writing is so simple and overly focused on a play-by-play that it’s a bit annoying - she went here, looked this way, thought this, etc. it almost reads like a screenplay, and it would be a good action movie.
August 10, 2022
Another excellent story from Jeff Carson. We met Ali Falco in the first David Wolf book Foreign Deceit when he had to travel to Italy because of his brother's death.
Ali is a beat cop who hasn't seen or spoken to her father in 11 years since her mother's funeral. She gets an urgent call to come see the Carbinieri in the town of Como, where she grew up.
Her father is dead and it looks like suicide, but she doesn't believe it. The book takes her on an adventure to try to prove that he was murdered.
Excellent suspense/mystery as she does her thing. If you haven't read Carson's David Wolf series I highly recommend it.
Ali is a beat cop who hasn't seen or spoken to her father in 11 years since her mother's funeral. She gets an urgent call to come see the Carbinieri in the town of Como, where she grew up.
Her father is dead and it looks like suicide, but she doesn't believe it. The book takes her on an adventure to try to prove that he was murdered.
Excellent suspense/mystery as she does her thing. If you haven't read Carson's David Wolf series I highly recommend it.
November 22, 2022
I love the David Wolf series and am glad to see a second series by Jeff Carson. The first book did not disappoint. Looking forward to more!
August 31, 2024
I knew there was a good chance I would enjoy this book because it was set in Lake Como and Siena but I was surprised by just how much I ended up enjoying it! Great main character and supporting characters, interesting plot that kept me guessing and a nail biting ending!
July 1, 2022
A change of pace for Jeff Carson
I became a fan after reading his "Foreign Deceit," the first of is David Carson books. And now that I think of ot, ancillary contraction was based overseas - possibly in Italy, although I won't swear to jt. Many books about the erstwhile Colorado Asian later, Carson took a slight turn.
Turns out that he holds dual US & Italian citizenship, and wanted to set something in Italy. So.we have All (Alison) Falco, a cop, daughter of a cop, (alrhough, to be fair, Carson does detail the numerous branches of their law enforce!ent structure), suddenly shocked by the apparent suicide of her father.
I wasn't fooled - and any reader of Carson's.work wouldn't be, either - when she sees that it.was murder. He was left-handed but the bullet went in the right side...
At the same time we have another LEO, Marco, who is investigating a.recently dislodged corpse from the same.town. Of course they are connected - that was a given - but how and why are is what makes for an action packed read. And Carson knows Italy, so he spends more time capturing the country than we've grown used to in his Wolf.books.
Here's to this break from one character's story and the possible beginnings of a new.series with a new heroine. Regardless of whether we'll see more of Ms. Falco in the future, we will see more Wolf. Pick this one up - it's well worth the read.
I became a fan after reading his "Foreign Deceit," the first of is David Carson books. And now that I think of ot, ancillary contraction was based overseas - possibly in Italy, although I won't swear to jt. Many books about the erstwhile Colorado Asian later, Carson took a slight turn.
Turns out that he holds dual US & Italian citizenship, and wanted to set something in Italy. So.we have All (Alison) Falco, a cop, daughter of a cop, (alrhough, to be fair, Carson does detail the numerous branches of their law enforce!ent structure), suddenly shocked by the apparent suicide of her father.
I wasn't fooled - and any reader of Carson's.work wouldn't be, either - when she sees that it.was murder. He was left-handed but the bullet went in the right side...
At the same time we have another LEO, Marco, who is investigating a.recently dislodged corpse from the same.town. Of course they are connected - that was a given - but how and why are is what makes for an action packed read. And Carson knows Italy, so he spends more time capturing the country than we've grown used to in his Wolf.books.
Here's to this break from one character's story and the possible beginnings of a new.series with a new heroine. Regardless of whether we'll see more of Ms. Falco in the future, we will see more Wolf. Pick this one up - it's well worth the read.
June 17, 2022
Wow! Another page turner from Jeff Carson
I am am unabashed lover of serial novels and I just discovered Jeff's David Wolf novels this year. I read the first 14 in a row, I couldn't stop! Then I couldn't wait for the 15th and read that!
I've been waiting with eager anticipation for the Como Falcon, and it didn't disappoint! His wording is so evocative you are rig&t there in the scene as you are reading. My grandfather only mother's side immigrated here from Italy and it was wonderful for me to read about the countryside. The fact that this story is based from a woman's point of view, who had many tragedies in her life, he did extremely well.
I especially like police/crime based stories and so far his have all had their basis in crime, another plus for me. I can't wait for the next!
Jeff also invites you to email him, and he does respond!
You will not be sorry to read his books!
I am am unabashed lover of serial novels and I just discovered Jeff's David Wolf novels this year. I read the first 14 in a row, I couldn't stop! Then I couldn't wait for the 15th and read that!
I've been waiting with eager anticipation for the Como Falcon, and it didn't disappoint! His wording is so evocative you are rig&t there in the scene as you are reading. My grandfather only mother's side immigrated here from Italy and it was wonderful for me to read about the countryside. The fact that this story is based from a woman's point of view, who had many tragedies in her life, he did extremely well.
I especially like police/crime based stories and so far his have all had their basis in crime, another plus for me. I can't wait for the next!
Jeff also invites you to email him, and he does respond!
You will not be sorry to read his books!
June 26, 2022
Potential. But VERY slow-moving for the first 40%. Pace picked up after that. Ali Falco just wasn't a likeable character for me. The setting was basically all hot, muggy, sweltering, rainy, weather. The place descriptions were fine, but slowed down the story.
July 4, 2023
Best Jeff Carson Book So Far!
The David Wolf series is an excellent series. Some of those adventures are better than others. This book however reveals the author's personal experience from life itself. The story is fully authentic and reads as if it's happening before your eyes! The layout of the story is excellent in that each major turn of the plot is explored and nothing is left dangling. The story has this feeling of being real all the time. The switchbacks to the main character's youthful history and explanations of family interactions are well done and provide good substance to fill out Aly's character. The interactions with community patrons and supporting characters gives heightened reality and legitimacy to the story. There's intense emotions shown in many of the characters and situations, filling out scenes with romance and intrigue and adding to the mystery of the whole story. It is definitely a good read that holds you captive until the end!
The David Wolf series is an excellent series. Some of those adventures are better than others. This book however reveals the author's personal experience from life itself. The story is fully authentic and reads as if it's happening before your eyes! The layout of the story is excellent in that each major turn of the plot is explored and nothing is left dangling. The story has this feeling of being real all the time. The switchbacks to the main character's youthful history and explanations of family interactions are well done and provide good substance to fill out Aly's character. The interactions with community patrons and supporting characters gives heightened reality and legitimacy to the story. There's intense emotions shown in many of the characters and situations, filling out scenes with romance and intrigue and adding to the mystery of the whole story. It is definitely a good read that holds you captive until the end!
November 6, 2023
The Como Falcon by Jeff Carson 10/25/2023 Kindle
This book is principally set in Como, Italy and other picturesque areas in the vicinity. While the story line held my attention and the descriptions were interesting, I never related to the characters. I also found the different policing organization levels confusing. The family relationship was also difficult for me to understand as well.
Detective Ali Falco is trying to prove something but she is thwarted when the case of a dead body is discovered near Lake Como the investigation is moved to another team. When another murder occurs nearby it turns out to be her father involving her directly. Her lengthy estrangement from him is a problem for her to overcome.
Sorry, but this story simply didn’t work for me. No criticism of the writing; just a personal opinion.
This book is principally set in Como, Italy and other picturesque areas in the vicinity. While the story line held my attention and the descriptions were interesting, I never related to the characters. I also found the different policing organization levels confusing. The family relationship was also difficult for me to understand as well.
Detective Ali Falco is trying to prove something but she is thwarted when the case of a dead body is discovered near Lake Como the investigation is moved to another team. When another murder occurs nearby it turns out to be her father involving her directly. Her lengthy estrangement from him is a problem for her to overcome.
Sorry, but this story simply didn’t work for me. No criticism of the writing; just a personal opinion.
April 8, 2025
I wasn’t too thrilled with this first book in the Ali Falco series. The story was interesting, starting with Ali Falco finding out her father committed suicide. Ali is a beat cop that went to another city to lay her father to rest, however, when she got there, things seemed suspicious. Of course, she had to investigate herself to find out what may have happened, which led to other findings.
The story itself was okay, however, I usually enjoy feeling a part of the main character. In this case, I never latched on to Ali Falco. Also, there was no major turning point that kept me captivated. Some of the underlying non-related parts were more interesting to me, such as her relationship with her boss and others within the department.
This is a decent read, however, I could not give it five stars because it was difficult to engage myself unlike the David Wolfe series by Jeff Carson.
The story itself was okay, however, I usually enjoy feeling a part of the main character. In this case, I never latched on to Ali Falco. Also, there was no major turning point that kept me captivated. Some of the underlying non-related parts were more interesting to me, such as her relationship with her boss and others within the department.
This is a decent read, however, I could not give it five stars because it was difficult to engage myself unlike the David Wolfe series by Jeff Carson.
October 2, 2022
I almost stopped reading it because it took so long for anything interesting to happen. And the protagonist wasn’t very likable despite the fact that she was good at fighting for justice. The descriptions of the aromas got on my nerves as well and I felt like she was doing way too much sniffing about, even for a detective! I like atmosphere but was feeling like I was reading a sort of scratch and sniff exploration of sadness in Siena. Fortunately, the action kicked in, her krav magma skills went on display and I literally couldn’t put it down! It would have helped if she had had at least a bit of a sense of humor. I’ve been reading a lot of Scottish detective stories lately and they tend to be much more entertaining.
December 1, 2025
This book is totally different from Jeff Carson's "David Wolf" series. The more I got into it, the better it got. Following Ali Falco's journey was exciting and interesting. Some of the endings left me disappointed by it's what the writer wants. I'm reading the next book in the series. This book is vastly different from Jeff Carson’s "David Wolf" series, and I can confidently say it's a worthwhile read. The deeper I got into it, the better it became. Ali Falco’s journey is both thrilling and captivating. Although certain elements of the ending disappointed me, I recognize that it aligns with the writer's vision. I’m now moving on to the next book in the series, and I’m eager to see where it leads. now.
August 5, 2022
new avenue
So...i debated with myself if i’ll continue to read this series, especially since it is way different from the David Wolfe series, but i guess i’ll see when the next one is published. Having said that, the story was interesting. I was a bit annoid at Ali’s quick reaction everytime and her way of firstly seeing the negative in information supplied-this came across as very immature for someone already 30 years old. I hope this gets better in future. I dis enjoy the relationship she had with all the other characters in the book. As to the story..its a good read for a first book. Thank you to the author for sharing his stories!
So...i debated with myself if i’ll continue to read this series, especially since it is way different from the David Wolfe series, but i guess i’ll see when the next one is published. Having said that, the story was interesting. I was a bit annoid at Ali’s quick reaction everytime and her way of firstly seeing the negative in information supplied-this came across as very immature for someone already 30 years old. I hope this gets better in future. I dis enjoy the relationship she had with all the other characters in the book. As to the story..its a good read for a first book. Thank you to the author for sharing his stories!
March 27, 2024
4/5 ⭐
0/5 🌶️
5/5 🎧
I really enjoyed this first Ali Falco novel. Jeff is a new to me author, but I'll definitely be back for more. The Como Falcon was filled with mystery, suspense, twists and just a little bit of romance.
Ali was a fantastic lead. She was smart, driven, and all around kick butt. I loved watching her unravel the unalivings of her parents with the help of Marco. I loved Marco too, and as a mostly romance reader, I'm hoping to see a lot more of him in book two.
The audio was great. Marnye Young did a wonderful job narrating these characters and telling this story. I'm really excited to listen to more from her.
0/5 🌶️
5/5 🎧
I really enjoyed this first Ali Falco novel. Jeff is a new to me author, but I'll definitely be back for more. The Como Falcon was filled with mystery, suspense, twists and just a little bit of romance.
Ali was a fantastic lead. She was smart, driven, and all around kick butt. I loved watching her unravel the unalivings of her parents with the help of Marco. I loved Marco too, and as a mostly romance reader, I'm hoping to see a lot more of him in book two.
The audio was great. Marnye Young did a wonderful job narrating these characters and telling this story. I'm really excited to listen to more from her.
April 10, 2025
I really loved this book and had a hard time putting it down - I have read other Carson books so I shouldn’t be surprised this was so good! Ali Falco is a police officer in Siena. When she learns her father has died by suicide, she returns to her childhood town of Como. There her investigation leads her to believe her father was murdered and ties into the death of her mother 11 years before. With danger lurking at every corner, Ali fights to learn what really happened to both parents. Great read!
July 11, 2022
I love Jeff Carson. His writing, his stories, the action in the books, his characters. I have avidly read all the David Wolf series and I am a big fan. This new series promises to be as good, with a different scenario (very much like the one depicted in Foreign Deceit) and good action too. The story in this book was a bit obvious (I realised how it would end not even half theough the book) but still enjoyable. Already looking forward to the next installment.
July 26, 2022
I'm going to give credit to Jeff Carson for moving a bit outside of what we normally expect from him. I love the David Wolf series and have thoroughly enjoyed every installment. So, I wasn't sure about this new character and setting.
Not to worry! Jeff has brought all his talent to bear on a new and fascinating character. All the elements we expect from a David Wolf novel are there; the detailed images of the settings, the insight into what the characters are thinking and what motivates them, a healthy dose of expertly imagined action scenes and a carefully woven, emminently believable plotline with enough unexpected developments to keep you turning the pages well into the night. It's all there with the added surprise of a foreign landscape and surroundings that Carson makes you immediately comfortable and familiar with. I feel like I have been to Lake Como and experienced its beauty and charm.
Seldom does a succesful author take a risk like this. Even less often is he/she successful. This is a winner in every way. Bring on Ali #2!
Not to worry! Jeff has brought all his talent to bear on a new and fascinating character. All the elements we expect from a David Wolf novel are there; the detailed images of the settings, the insight into what the characters are thinking and what motivates them, a healthy dose of expertly imagined action scenes and a carefully woven, emminently believable plotline with enough unexpected developments to keep you turning the pages well into the night. It's all there with the added surprise of a foreign landscape and surroundings that Carson makes you immediately comfortable and familiar with. I feel like I have been to Lake Como and experienced its beauty and charm.
Seldom does a succesful author take a risk like this. Even less often is he/she successful. This is a winner in every way. Bring on Ali #2!
July 27, 2022
This was my first experience with a Jeff Carson novel. I enjoyed it enormously. I am somewhat familiar with the locales. His descriptions brought back many fond memories. His characters are very appealing. The pacing is excellent. For some books, it feels like the author is being paid by the word. That was definitely not the case with this book. I am anxious for the next installment in the series. I am starting his other major series soon.
May 20, 2023
Captivating
I stumbled across Jeff Carson and his novel series! I was captivated by his ability to draw in his audience and really make them attached to the main characters. He is able to bring in some light romance to his misty books without over doing it, as many of todays authors do. The Como Falco, Ali Falco, was a wonderful book full of twists and unlikely turns. Thank you again Mr. Carson for a mini escape found by reading your book!
I stumbled across Jeff Carson and his novel series! I was captivated by his ability to draw in his audience and really make them attached to the main characters. He is able to bring in some light romance to his misty books without over doing it, as many of todays authors do. The Como Falco, Ali Falco, was a wonderful book full of twists and unlikely turns. Thank you again Mr. Carson for a mini escape found by reading your book!
August 28, 2023
Ali Falco, Book 1
I have enjoyed every one of the David Wolf books in the series, so I was a little dubious about starting a new series with all new characters to learn. Jeff Carson has done a great job introducing Ali Falco! I feel like I will enjoy this series as much as the other series, and I look forward to hearing about the gorgeous Italian locations that frame these stories!
I have enjoyed every one of the David Wolf books in the series, so I was a little dubious about starting a new series with all new characters to learn. Jeff Carson has done a great job introducing Ali Falco! I feel like I will enjoy this series as much as the other series, and I look forward to hearing about the gorgeous Italian locations that frame these stories!
April 24, 2024
The Como Falcon Italian Mystery
This look into the past and present of Italian law enforcement exposes the secrets and painful memories that can haunt any family. Protagonist Ali Falco is vulnerable yet tough. This first book in Jeff Carson’s latest series based in Italy will leave you wanting more, just like his earlier law enforcement series that is set in Colorado, USA. A great read!
This look into the past and present of Italian law enforcement exposes the secrets and painful memories that can haunt any family. Protagonist Ali Falco is vulnerable yet tough. This first book in Jeff Carson’s latest series based in Italy will leave you wanting more, just like his earlier law enforcement series that is set in Colorado, USA. A great read!
March 13, 2025
This was a good story. Maybe a little slow in places, but certainly very ‘Italian.’ Having lived many years in a neighboring country, I recognize how knowledgeable the author is of the Italian way of thinking, way of life, Italian history. I am still, however, much more attracted to the life in Colorado, Wolf and his crew…not easily making the transition to Italy. I will read the next Ali Falco, mainly because I very much enjoy reading Jeff Carson’s stories.
January 11, 2026
Loved Ali Falco, embraced the story line , beginning was a little slow but as it picked up, I hated to have to
Put the book down . She knew her dad would not had committed suicide , like the little romance included love the mystery of who the killer could be , I found my murderer and hoped I got it right ! Which I did ! Will read the next one !
Side note the author used the name. Giuseppe which was my great grandfathers name .
Put the book down . She knew her dad would not had committed suicide , like the little romance included love the mystery of who the killer could be , I found my murderer and hoped I got it right ! Which I did ! Will read the next one !
Side note the author used the name. Giuseppe which was my great grandfathers name .
June 18, 2022
Off to a great start!
Excellent character development while introducing the reader to hopefully a new long series. Picturesque writing that can put you in the middle of a bustling Italian city or along the shores of beautiful lake Como.
So now, not only do I have to wait for book 16 of the David Wolf series, I'll also be waiting for book 2 of the Ali Falco series.
Excellent character development while introducing the reader to hopefully a new long series. Picturesque writing that can put you in the middle of a bustling Italian city or along the shores of beautiful lake Como.
So now, not only do I have to wait for book 16 of the David Wolf series, I'll also be waiting for book 2 of the Ali Falco series.
June 19, 2022
The Como Falcon
Excellent, excellent!!! Jeff Carson is one of my newest great finds even though it took me awhile to find him! Ali Falco is a great character and so glad this is her Book 1. Really interesting, fast paced, and suspenseful. Hope there is more Marco in her future!!! Don't stop writing more David Wolf books though!!! Chris Pilgrim
Excellent, excellent!!! Jeff Carson is one of my newest great finds even though it took me awhile to find him! Ali Falco is a great character and so glad this is her Book 1. Really interesting, fast paced, and suspenseful. Hope there is more Marco in her future!!! Don't stop writing more David Wolf books though!!! Chris Pilgrim
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June 19, 2022Wow. I’ve loved all the previous book by Jeff Carson & was not disappointed in The Como Falcon. It was a great read. I just spent 2 1/2 weeks in Italy, one week extra because testing positive for covid, & really enjoyed reading about Sienna, Como, & Rome. I look forward to more books that place in Italy & to read more about Ali & Marco.
July 18, 2022
Much prefer the David Wolf series. Ali is a policeman in Sienna,Italy following in the footsteps of a father she hasn't spoken to in over a decade. The why is explained when he dies and Ali investigates what she believes is a suspicious death, that then ties in to some others.
The storyline is interesting but it didn't seem to engage me as much as the the David Wolf books.
The storyline is interesting but it didn't seem to engage me as much as the the David Wolf books.
July 24, 2022
I never imagined that I would be reading anything else but Wolf books by Jeff Carson. But when book #1 in a new series came out…..and it featured a young woman Police officer in ITALY!!! Imagine my surprise. So I figured, what the heck. I bet it will be every bit as good as the old Wolf books. AND IT IS. Wow. I read it in 1day and now I have to wait for the second one. Good work Jeff.
August 2, 2022
Great Start to a New Series
Jeff Carson, author of the David Wolf series, has written an excellent police procedural featuring a female officer, Ali Falco, who marches to her own drummer. The first book is set in Sienna, Como and Rome, so extra points if you love Italy! I’m eagerly awaiting publication of book 2.
Jeff Carson, author of the David Wolf series, has written an excellent police procedural featuring a female officer, Ali Falco, who marches to her own drummer. The first book is set in Sienna, Como and Rome, so extra points if you love Italy! I’m eagerly awaiting publication of book 2.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews