Order of Virgil Cole & Everett Hitch Book Series

The "Virgil Cole & Everett Hitch" series, co-authored by Robert B. Parker and Robert Knott, invites readers into the rugged and lawless world of the Old West, where justice is often a matter of personal honor and grit. The series revolves around the steadfast partnership of Virgil Cole, a seasoned lawman with a strong moral code, and his loyal companion, Everett Hitch, who provides keen insights and unwavering support.

Set against the backdrop of the often treacherous frontier, the stories capture the essence of cowboy camaraderie and the relentless pursuit of justice in a land where the rules are often bent. Each installment delivers an engaging blend of action, adventure, and complex characters, showcasing themes of loyalty, friendship, and the quest for redemption.

As Cole and Hitch tackle various outlaws, corrupt politicians, and personal demons, readers are drawn into the stark beauty and danger of the Western frontier, while experiencing the trials and triumphs of two men devoted to their cause. With Parker's signature wit and Knott's skillful storytelling, the series offers a thrilling ride filled with suspense, humor, and profound moments of reflection on the nature of good and evil.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Westerns or new to the genre, the "Virgil Cole & Everett Hitch" series promises an enthralling exploration of bravery, the complexities of human relationships, and the timeless struggle for justice in a lawless land.

The "Virgil Cole & Everett Hitch" series, written by Robert B. Parker and continued by Robert Knott, features a pair of U.S. Marshals who navigate the dangerous and often morally ambiguous landscape of the American West in the late 19th century. Here’s a brief overview of each book in the series:

1. Appaloosa (2005) - The first book in the series introduces Virgil Cole and Everett Hitch as they attempt to bring law and order to the lawless town of Appaloosa. When a former lawman turns tyrant and terrorizes the locals, Cole and Hitch are hired to restore peace. Their task becomes complicated when Cole falls for a woman who has a past that might jeopardize their mission.

2. Resolution (2006) - Following the events of "Appaloosa," Cole and Hitch are back with a new assignment. They need to confront a notorious gang leader and his men who threaten the peace they’ve tried to establish. As they delve deeper into the undercurrents of violence, personal relationships are tested, and loyalty becomes central to their survival.

3. Brimstone (2007) - In this installment, the duo faces a ruthless former gunfighter who returns to take revenge on the townsfolk for past grievances. As they navigate the complexities of the gunfighter’s return, Cole and Hitch find themselves in situations that test their skills and resolve while exploring themes of justice and retribution.

4. Blue-Eyed Devil (2008) - In "Blue-Eyed Devil," Virgil Cole's past comes back to haunt him when a deadly outlaw targets him. Meanwhile, Everett Hitch grapples with his own personal dilemmas. The narrative dives into themes of redemption and guilt as the two lawmen confront both external threats and their internal struggles.

5. The Professional (2009) - The story escalates when Cole and Hitch confront the consequences of their actions and the professional code they follow as U.S. Marshals. This installment tackles the ideas of duty, sacrifice, and the idea of what it means to be a protector in a lawless society.

6. Ironhorse (2010) - In "Ironhorse," a tragic event forces Cole and Hitch to reassess their lives and the lives of those around them. They take on a new case involving a railroad, opportunity, and the conflicts that come with expansion and progress. The pair’s friendship is tested as they navigate danger and betrayal.

7. Painted Horses (2011) - As the series continues, Cole and Hitch get involved with a team of painters who are transporting a valuable and potentially dangerous cargo. The book blends history with adventure and examines the deeper aspects of art, culture, and the shifting landscapes of the West.

8. Lullaby (2012) - In this novel, the challenges intensify as Cole struggles with his past and the boundaries between right and wrong. Hitch becomes a key player in their latest escapade, underscoring themes of loyalty and the bonds of friendship in challenging times.

9. The Hangman's Daughter (2013) - This tale brings a focus on justice and the weight of the law as Cole and Hitch undertake to bring a criminal to justice. The dynamic duo navigates treacherous terrain, making tough decisions that question their moral compass.

10. Killing the Shadows (2014) - In this installment, Cole and Hitch are drawn into a complex case involving multiple shady characters. Their exploration of darker themes of vengeance and morality adds depth to the series, showcasing their character development and evolving relationships.

11. The Devil's Playground (2015) - The series culminates in "The Devil's Playground," where Cole and Hitch must confront their greatest adversaries yet. The themes of duty, friendship, and moral ambiguity reach a peak as the duo tries to maintain their bond while dealing with the chaos around them.

The works blend traditional Western elements with character-driven storytelling, emphasizing the partnership between Cole and Hitch as they navigate a rapidly changing world. The series reflects on larger themes of justice, loyalty, and personal integrity in the face of adversity.

The "Virgil Cole & Everett Hitch" series, written by Robert B. Parker and later continued by Robert Knott, features two main characters who are engaging and complex in their roles as lawmen in the American West.

1. Virgil Cole: Cole is the primary protagonist and serves as a deputy marshal. He is a seasoned and skilled lawman, known for his quick draw and calm demeanor in high-pressure situations. His character embodies the archetype of a rugged Western hero, often navigating the moral complexities of law enforcement in a lawless land. Virgil holds a strong sense of justice and loyalty, but he is also aware of the gray areas of morality, making him a layered character. He often contemplates the implications of his actions and the American frontier’s lawlessness.

2. Everett Hitch: Hitch is Virgil's partner and friend, acting as his support both in the field and in their personal lives. He contrasts with Virgil in some ways, often bringing a more relatable and human perspective to their adventures. Hitch is resourceful and has an intuitive understanding of people, which helps to complement Virgil’s more stoic approach. While he may not be as quick to draw a gun, he is equally committed to upholding the law and protecting their community, often providing moral grounding for Virgil.

Together, Cole and Hitch navigate various challenges, from outlaws and corrupt officials to personal struggles and ethical dilemmas, all while embodying the classic themes of loyalty, justice, and the fight against lawlessness in the Old West. Their dynamic relationship adds depth to the narrative, emphasizing themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the often blurry line between right and wrong.

The "Virgil Cole & Everett Hitch" series, co-written by Robert B. Parker and Robert Knott, is a collection of Western novels that feature two central characters navigating the challenges of life in the old West. Here are some interesting facts about the series:

1. Character Backgrounds: Virgil Cole is a lawman with a strong sense of justice, while Everett Hitch is his trusted sidekick. Their partnership is central to the story, demonstrating themes of friendship and loyalty.

2. Transition to Co-Author: After Robert B. Parker's death in 2010, Robert Knott was invited to continue the series. Knott, who had previously collaborated with Parker, brought his own style while respecting the original tone and characters introduced by Parker.

3. Themes of Morality: The series explores complex themes of morality, justice, and personal ethics. The characters often find themselves in morally ambiguous situations that challenge their beliefs and decisions.

4. Literary Style: The writing style of the series is distinctively concise, reflecting Parker's trademark approach. The dialogue is sharp, and the pacing keeps readers engaged, often delivering suspenseful and quick-paced narratives.

5. Setting: The novels are set in the American West, capturing the essence of the landscape and the societal dynamics of the period. This setting serves as a backdrop for the characters’ interactions and conflicts.

6. Genre Blending: The series blends traditional Western elements with aspects of crime fiction and mystery, appealing to a wide range of readers. This genre fusion allows for rich storytelling opportunities.

7. Multiple Installments: The series consists of several installments, each offering new adventures while building on the characters' development. Some notable titles include "Appaloosa," "Brimstone," and "Blue-Eyed Devil."

8. Cinematic Adaptations: The first book, "Appaloosa," was adapted into a film in 2008, directed by and starring Ed Harris, along with Viggo Mortensen and Renee Zellweger. The film received positive reviews for its portrayal of the characters and the Western genre.

9. Influence of Classic Westerns: Parker and Knott drew inspiration from classic Western literature and films, infusing their narratives with iconic tropes while also providing a modern twist on Western storytelling.

10. Legacy of Robert B. Parker: Parker was an influential author known for revitalizing the detective genre with his Spenser series. The continuation of the Virgil Cole & Everett Hitch series underlines the lasting impact of his work and the dedication to keeping his storytelling alive.

These facts highlight the depth and appeal of the "Virgil Cole & Everett Hitch" series, illustrating its significance in the Western genre and its connection to the broader literary landscape established by Robert B. Parker.