If you’re on the search for a gripping crime fiction series or standalone novel, you might want to consider diving into the works of Jeff Carson. As a seasoned author of crime and thriller novels, his works are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page. In this article, we’ll take a comprehensive look into the best Jeff Carson books and why they are worth reading.
Before we dive into the best Jeff Carson books, it’s important to know who he is. Jeff Carson is a renowned author known for his crime fiction series and standalone novels. He began his writing career with the first book in the David Wolf series, “Foreign Deceit,” and has since written over 15 novels.
A Brief Biography
Jeff Carson was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, which is also where most of his books are set. Growing up, he was fascinated by the great outdoors and spent most of his free time exploring the Rocky Mountains. His love for nature and the wilderness is often reflected in his writing.
After graduating from high school, Jeff Carson worked a variety of odd jobs, including a delivery driver and a construction worker. However, he always knew that his true passion was writing. In his free time, he would write short stories and submit them to various publications. It wasn’t until he wrote his first novel, “Foreign Deceit,” that he was able to turn his passion into a full-time career.
The David Wolf Series
One of the most popular works of Jeff Carson is the David Wolf series, which follows the investigative pursuits of a detective in the small town of Rocky Points, Colorado. The series has been dubbed as a “Colorado crime thriller” and has gained a loyal fanbase over the years.
The David Wolf series is known for its intricate plotlines, well-developed characters, and vivid descriptions of the Colorado landscape. Each book in the series is a standalone novel, but they are all connected through the character of David Wolf. Fans of the series love the way that Jeff Carson is able to create a sense of place and transport them to the rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains.
Standalone Novels
Aside from the David Wolf series, Jeff Carson has also written several standalone novels that showcase his range and versatility as a crime fiction writer. One of his most popular standalone novels is “The Silversmith,” which is set in the small town of Eagle’s Nest, Colorado.
“The Silversmith” follows the story of a small-town sheriff who must solve a string of murders that are connected to a local silversmith. The novel is known for its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and surprising twists and turns.
Another popular standalone novel by Jeff Carson is “The Cold Dish,” which is set in the fictional town of Absaroka County, Wyoming. The novel follows the story of a sheriff who must solve the murder of a young man who was found dead in the wilderness. “The Cold Dish” is known for its vivid descriptions of the Wyoming landscape and its well-drawn characters.
Overall, Jeff Carson is a talented writer who has gained a loyal following for his crime fiction series and standalone novels. His ability to create a sense of place and transport readers to the rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains is unmatched, and his intricate plotlines and well-developed characters keep readers coming back for more.
Top 5 Jeff Carson Books
Without further ado, let’s explore the top 5 Jeff Carson books:
Foreign Deceit
The first book in the David Wolf series, “Foreign Deceit” sets the tone for the succeeding books in the series. The story follows Detective David Wolf as he investigates the murder of a tourist in the remote mountains of Colorado. Along the way, he uncovers a web of deceit and corruption that threatens to destroy everything he holds dear.
The Silversmith
In “The Silversmith,” David Wolf finds himself investigating the disappearance of several prominent personalities in the art world and the surprising discovery of their mutilated bodies. The plot thickens as he delves deeper into the mystery and uncovers a sinister motive behind the crimes.
Alive and Killing
Another gripping installment in the David Wolf series, “Alive and Killing” sees David investigating the death of a local party girl. As he unravels the mystery and digs deeper into the case, he discovers horrifying truths about the victim’s past that leads to an unexpected conclusion.
Deadly Conditions
“Deadly Conditions” finds David Wolf fighting for his survival as he tries to solve a case while battling a deadly blizzard. The story is a thrilling ride of survival and crime investigation that showcases Jeff Carson’s ability to create tension and excitement.
Cold Lake
The fifth book in the David Wolf series, “Cold Lake,” takes readers on another thrilling journey with Detective David Wolf. The story revolves around the mysterious disappearance of a young woman and the subsequent discovery of her body in a frozen lake. As usual, David finds himself in the middle of a dangerous and complicated investigation that leads to explosive revelations.
Exploring the David Wolf Series
The David Wolf series is a testament to Jeff Carson’s skill in crafting compelling crime fiction. In this section, we’ll explore some of the recurring themes and motifs in the series.
The Evolution of David Wolf’s Character
Throughout the series, Detective David Wolf evolves into a complex and multi-layered character. From a no-nonsense cop in “Foreign Deceit” to a troubled and flawed detective in “Deadly Conditions,” Jeff Carson masterfully weaves David’s personal growth into the overarching crime plot in each book.
David’s evolution is not just limited to his personal life; his professional life also undergoes significant changes. In “Foreign Deceit,” David is still adjusting to his new job in Rocky Points. However, as the series progresses, he becomes more comfortable in his role as a detective and gains the trust and respect of his colleagues.
Recurring Themes and Motifs
One of the most significant themes in the David Wolf series is the contrast between urban and rural environments. The small town of Rocky Points, where David is stationed, is a stark contrast to the bustling city of Denver, where he was previously stationed. This contrast highlights the isolation and tight-knit community of Rocky Points, which is a recurring motif in the series.
Another recurring theme in the series is the importance of family. David’s family plays a significant role in his personal life, and their presence is felt throughout the series. From his troubled relationship with his ex-wife to his close bond with his sister, each book explores the complexities of familial relationships.
The Colorado Setting
As a native of Colorado, Jeff Carson brings the state’s rugged landscapes and natural beauty to the forefront of the David Wolf series. The setting serves as an essential element in the series, and the books wouldn’t be the same without the vivid descriptions of the Colorado wilderness.
Carson’s love for Colorado is evident in the way he describes the state’s natural wonders. From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the crystal-clear waters of the state’s many lakes and rivers, the Colorado setting is as much a character in the series as David Wolf himself.
In conclusion, the David Wolf series is a must-read for fans of crime fiction. Jeff Carson’s masterful storytelling, combined with the series’ recurring themes and vivid Colorado setting, make for a thrilling and immersive reading experience.
Standalone Novels by Jeff Carson
Apart from the David Wolf series, Jeff Carson has also written several standalone novels that showcase his versatility and skill in crafting gripping crime fiction.
Signature
In “Signature,” Jeff Carson explores the world of counterfeiters and art forgery. The story follows an art dealer turned forger as he sets out to create the perfect fake painting – one that could potentially ruin the art world forever.
The novel delves into the intricate and fascinating world of art forgery, exploring the lengths that some will go to in order to deceive and manipulate. Carson’s research into the subject matter is evident, as he weaves a complex and thrilling tale of deceit and betrayal.
Readers will be drawn in by the intricate details of the art world, as Carson expertly navigates the nuances of the industry. From the high-stakes auction houses to the seedy underbelly of the black market, “Signature” takes readers on a journey through the world of art that they won’t soon forget.
The Last Flight
“The Last Flight” tells the story of a pilot who encounters a mysterious woman on one of his flights. When she disappears at the end of the journey, he sets out on a quest to find her, leading to a dangerous game of cat and mouse.
The novel is a thrilling ride from start to finish, as readers are taken on a journey through the seedy world of international espionage. Carson expertly weaves together a complex web of intrigue and danger, drawing readers in with his masterful storytelling.
As the pilot delves deeper into the mystery of the woman’s disappearance, he finds himself embroiled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse with a shadowy figure who will stop at nothing to keep his secrets hidden. The tension builds steadily throughout the novel, culminating in a heart-stopping finale that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.
With “The Last Flight,” Jeff Carson proves that he is a master of the thriller genre, crafting a gripping and suspenseful tale that will keep readers guessing until the very end.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jeff Carson is a gifted author who has produced an impressive body of work that is sure to keep readers engaged and on the edge of their seats. Whether you’re a fan of crime fiction, thrillers, or just a great story, you’re sure to find something to love in Jeff Carson’s works.
FAQs
Who is Jeff Carson?
Jeff Carson is an American author, famous for the thriller mysteries in the David Wolf series. He lives in Colorado with his children and Italian wife. Due to her background, he has spent a lot of time in Italy, where he had an ‘epiphany’ and began writing full-time.
What does Jeff Carson do?
After an unpredictable, self-published start, Jeff Carson is now a full-time mystery writer and has made a career out of his books.
What is Jeff Carson’s bestselling book?
He has only written the David Wolf series and all 14 books inside have been positively received, so it’s difficult to pick just one.
Eddison Monroe, born 1990 in Portland, Oregon, is an accomplished and celebrated female writer and independent author. The youngest of three siblings, Eddison's passion for storytelling began during her childhood as she entertained her family with vivid tales and fantastical characters. Her nurturing environment and the encouragement of her parents, both educators, played a crucial role in shaping her literary aspirations.
Eddison's writing often explores themes of self-discovery, relationships, and the complexities of human emotions. Her works are characterized by their lyrical prose, intricate world-building, and strong, multidimensional female characters.
A strong advocate for independent publishing, Eddison frequently conducts workshops and seminars to guide budding writers in navigating the world of self-publishing. She also serves as a mentor for aspiring authors, providing them with the knowledge and tools to pursue their dreams.
