To experience the compelling world of Cormac Reilly, the recommended way to read Dervla McTiernan's series is by publication order for the main novels, followed by the prequels which offer additional depth to the characters' backstories.
Understanding the Cormac Reilly Reading Order
Dervla McTiernan's Cormac Reilly series is a gripping collection of crime thrillers centered around Detective Cormac Reilly in Galway, Ireland. While there are a few prequel novellas, starting with the main novels in their release order generally provides the best narrative flow and introduction to the characters and ongoing plot lines. The prequels can then be read to fill in historical context or as standalone glimpses into the characters' pasts.
Here's the recommended reading order for the Cormac Reilly series:
- The Ruin
- The Scholar
- The Good Turn
After completing the main trilogy, you can delve into the prequel novellas to gain further insight into Cormac Reilly's early career and personal life:
- The Sisters: A Cormac Reilly Prequel
- The Roommate: A Cormac Reilly Prequel
Additionally, Dervla McTiernan has written standalone novels that are not part of the Cormac Reilly series, such as The Murder Rule. While an excellent read, it is a separate story and not required for the Cormac Reilly series progression.
Cormac Reilly Series Reading Order at a Glance
For a clear overview, here's the recommended reading order, including all relevant books by Dervla McTiernan:
| Reading Order | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Ruin | Main Series Novel |
| 2 | The Scholar | Main Series Novel |
| 3 | The Good Turn | Main Series Novel |
| 4 | The Sisters: A Cormac Reilly Prequel | Prequel Novella (Optional) |
| 5 | The Roommate: A Cormac Reilly Prequel | Prequel Novella (Optional) |
| - | The Murder Rule | Standalone Novel |
Reading the series in this order allows you to follow the development of Cormac Reilly's investigations and personal challenges as they unfold, while still having the option to explore his past through the prequels.
