Vic Varallo Mystery Series by Hillary Waugh
The Vic Varallo Mystery series by Hillary Waugh is a classic collection of police procedural novels. Set in the fictional town of Glendale, California, the series follows Vic Varallo, a small-town cop who tackles complex cases involving murder, conspiracy, and human drama. With its realistic portrayal of police work and engaging characters, the series is a must-read for mystery lovers.
Publication Order of Vic Varallo Mystery Books
- The Borrowed Alibi (1962)
- Run to Evil (1963)
- Detective’s Due (1965)
- The Nameless Ones (1967)
- The Wine of Violence (1969)
- Malicious Mischief (1971)
- Scenes of Crime (1976)
- A Dream Apart (1978)
- The Hunters and the Hunted (1979)
- A Choice of Crimes (1980)
- Random Death (1982)
- Crime for Christmas (1983)
- Chain of Violence (1986)
1. The Borrowed Alibi (1962)
Vic Varallo is introduced as a dedicated cop in Glendale. In this first case, he investigates a murder that seems to have no clear motive. As he digs deeper, he uncovers secrets that challenge his perception of justice. This book sets the tone for the series with its focus on meticulous police work.
2. Run to Evil (1963)
A young boy becomes the key witness in a chilling murder case. Vic must protect the boy while unraveling the mystery behind the crime. This story highlights the emotional toll of police work and the importance of perseverance.
3. Detective’s Due (1965)
Vic faces a case involving a high-profile murder that puts him under intense public scrutiny. As he navigates political pressure and personal challenges, he must rely on his instincts to solve the case. This book delves into the complexities of being a detective.
4. The Nameless Ones (1967)
A serial killer is targeting elderly women in Glendale. Vic must connect the dots between seemingly unrelated victims to stop the killer. This gripping installment showcases the darker side of human nature and the relentless pursuit of justice.
5. The Wine of Violence (1969)
A murder at a local winery leads Vic into a web of deceit and betrayal. As he uncovers the truth, he must confront his own biases and assumptions. This book is a masterful blend of suspense and character development.
6. Malicious Mischief (1971)
A series of pranks escalates into a deadly game, and Vic must determine who is behind the chaos. This story explores the fine line between mischief and malice, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
7. Scenes of Crime (1976)
Vic investigates a crime scene that seems to tell a story of its own. As he pieces together the evidence, he uncovers a shocking truth that changes everything. This book is a testament to the power of observation and deduction.
8. A Dream Apart (1978)
A missing person case takes a dark turn when a body is discovered. Vic must navigate a maze of lies and half-truths to find the killer. This installment is a poignant exploration of loss and redemption.
9. The Hunters and the Hunted (1979)
A man released from a mental institution becomes the prime suspect in a series of murders. Vic must determine whether the man is truly guilty or a victim of circumstance. This book raises thought-provoking questions about justice and morality.
10. A Choice of Crimes (1980)
Vic faces a moral dilemma when two cases intersect in unexpected ways. He must make a difficult choice that tests his integrity and commitment to the law. This story is a powerful exploration of ethical challenges in police work.
11. Random Death (1982)
A random act of violence shakes the community, and Vic must uncover the motive behind the crime. This book is a chilling reminder of the unpredictability of human behavior.
12. Crime for Christmas (1983)
A holiday celebration turns deadly when a guest is murdered. Vic must solve the case before the killer strikes again. This festive yet suspenseful story is a perfect blend of mystery and holiday cheer.
13. Chain of Violence (1986)
The series concludes with a case that hits close to home for Vic. As he confronts his own past, he must solve a crime that threatens to destroy everything he holds dear. This final installment is a fitting end to the series, filled with tension and emotional depth.
Why You’ll Love the Vic Varallo Mystery Series
The Vic Varallo Mystery series is perfect for fans of classic police procedurals. The books offer a realistic portrayal of police work, complete with detailed investigations and complex characters. Vic Varallo is a relatable protagonist whose dedication and humanity shine through in every case. The series combines suspense, drama, and thought-provoking themes, making it a timeless favorite for mystery lovers.
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