Reading order
| # | Title | Published | Author | Buy on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | On, Off | 2005 | Colleen McCullough | Buy |
| 2 | Too Many Murders | 2009 | Colleen McCullough | Buy |
| 3 | Naked Cruelty | 2010 | Colleen McCullough | Buy |
| 4 | The Prodigal Son | 2012 | Colleen McCullough | Buy |
| 5 | Sins of the Flesh | 2013 | Colleen McCullough | Buy |
The Carmine Delmonico series marks Colleen McCullough’s venture into mystery fiction after completing her epic Masters of Rome historical series. Set in the fictional university town of Holloman, Connecticut, during the tumultuous 1960s, these novels blend traditional detective work with the social upheaval of the era.
Captain Carmine Delmonico leads a team of investigators through cases ranging from serial killings to complex conspiracies. The series stands out for its authentic period atmosphere and McCullough’s attention to forensic detail, reflecting her scientific background. Delmonico’s team includes the brilliant but socially awkward pathologist Patrick O’Donnell and the ambitious young detective Abe Goldberg, creating a dynamic ensemble that evolves across the five books.