Colleen McCullough

What genres does Colleen McCullough write in?

She wrote historical fiction (notably the Masters of Rome series), sweeping family sagas (for example The Thorn Birds, Morgan's Run, The Touch), crime novels (the Carmine Delmonico series) and mythic retellings (The Song of Troy).

Which book is a good place to start for new readers?

For a single, accessible introduction try The Thorn Birds. If you prefer historical epics start with The First Man in Rome, which begins the Masters of Rome series. For crime fiction try the Carmine Delmonico novels.

What is the recommended reading order for the Masters of Rome series?

Read the series in publication/chronological order: The First Man in Rome; The Grass Crown; Fortune's Favourites; Caesar's Women; Caesar; The October Horse; Antony and Cleopatra.

Did Colleen McCullough write any mystery or crime series?

Yes. She wrote the Carmine Delmonico crime novels, which include titles such as Too Many Murders, Naked Cruelty, The Prodigal Son and Sins of the Flesh.

How did her professional background influence her writing?

McCullough trained as a neuroscientist and worked in neurology and medical research, including ten years at Yale. Her scientific training contributed to a disciplined research approach and attention to factual detail, especially in her historical novels.