How to Read the VRC: Vampire Related Crimes Series
If you love supernatural buddy-cop dynamics, snarky banter, and steamy M/M romance, Alice Winters' VRC: Vampire Related Crimes series is a must-read. Set in a modern world where humans and vampires uneasily coexist, the books follow the cases and chaotic lives of the special VRC unit.
Because the series features an ongoing political arc, recurring side characters, and changing romantic pairings, you should read these books in publication order. Skipping around will spoil character developments and the overarching storyline.
VRC: Vampire Related Crimes Recommended Reading Order
- How to Vex a Vampire (2020) — Finn & Marcus
- How to Elude a Vampire (2020) — Finn & Marcus
- How to Lure a Hunter (2020) — Alexei & Claude
- How to Save a Human (2020) — Bentley & River
- How to Defy a Vampire (2023) — Finn & Marcus
- How to Entice a Fiend (2025) — Mads & Ender
A Closer Look at the Books
1. How to Vex a Vampire (2020)
The series kicks off by introducing Finn Hayes, a snarky human detective and double amputee who joins the Vampire Related Crimes unit to escape a dangerous stalker. He is reluctantly paired with Marcus, a grumpy, centuries-old vampire detective. While Marcus is initially resistant to having a human partner, Finn's relentless humor and determination quickly break through his icy exterior as they investigate a conspiracy threatening the peace between species.
2. How to Elude a Vampire (2020)
This direct sequel continues Finn and Marcus's story. While their romantic connection is deepening, their domestic peace is short-lived. A case involving a chilling stalker linked to Finn's past forces them to work together closely once more, raising the stakes both professionally and personally.
3. How to Lure a Hunter (2020)
The third installment shifts focus to a new couple. Stoic, quiet vampire detective Alexei is paired with Claude, Marcus's incredibly flamboyant and dramatic brother. When a threat involving a dangerous anti-vampire group emerges, Alexei must navigate his growing feelings for the chaotic Claude while keeping them both alive.
4. How to Save a Human (2020)
Taking a slightly darker, more emotional tone, this book focuses on Bentley DeGray, a member of the VRC who has historically kept his head down, and River, a human survivor dealing with trauma from past vampire abuse. When River gets caught up in a dangerous conspiracy involving prominent vampire abductions, Bentley steps in to protect him, forcing both to confront their vulnerabilities.
5. How to Defy a Vampire (2023)
This novel returns the spotlight to the series' original couple, Finn and Marcus. As human-vampire tensions escalate in the city, the two detectives must navigate complex political conspiracies while keeping their partnership, humor, and relationship intact.
6. How to Entice a Fiend (2025)
The sixth novel introduces Mads, a Vampire Council member who gets entangled with the VRC, and Ender, a protective and traumatized vampire who acts as guardian to a younger vampire named Rylee. They must learn to trust each other amidst high-stakes supernatural threats and action-packed investigations, ending with a satisfying 'Happy For Now' that leaves room for the team's future adventures.
Bonus Content and Newsletter Exclusives
Alice Winters regularly writes bonus scenes and short stories for her reader community. These are primarily accessible by subscribing to the author's official newsletter or joining her Facebook reader group, 'Alice Winters' Wonderland'. Among these is the exclusive short story How to School a Vampire, which is recommended to be read directly after finishing How to Entice a Fiend.
What to Know Before You Start
The VRC series is celebrated for its balance of laugh-out-loud comedy and high-stakes action. Finn's disability is handled with nuanced representation, showcasing his resilience and capability as a detective without turning it into a tragedy. Keep in mind that while the romance is a major focus, the crime-solving plots are fully realized, making it a true urban fantasy police procedural.