Masters of Rome books in order

Q: "How many books are in the Masters of Rome series?"

"There are 7 books in the Masters of Rome series, published between 1990 and 2007."

Q: "Do I need to read the Masters of Rome series in order?"

"Yes, the series follows a chronological timeline from 110 BC to 27 BC, with each book building on previous events and character development."

Q: "How historically accurate is the series?"

"McCullough conducted extensive research using primary sources. While she fictionalized private moments and conversations, major historical events remain faithful to the historical record."

Q: "Who are the main characters in the series?"

"The series features real historical figures including Gaius Marius, Lucius Cornelius Sulla, Julius Caesar, Pompey the Great, Cicero, Mark Antony, and Octavian (later Augustus)."

Reading order

#	Title	Published	Author	Buy on Amazon
1	The First Man in Rome	1990	Colleen McCullough	Buy
2	The Grass Crown	1991	Colleen McCullough	Buy
3	Fortune’s Favorites	1993	Colleen McCullough	Buy
4	Caesar’s Women	1996	Colleen McCullough	Buy
5	Caesar	1997	Colleen McCullough	Buy
6	The October Horse	2002	Colleen McCullough	Buy
7	Antony and Cleopatra	2007	Colleen McCullough	Buy

The Masters of Rome series begins in 110 BC with The First Man in Rome, introducing readers to Gaius Marius and the political turmoil of the late Roman Republic. Across seven novels spanning nearly two decades of publication, Colleen McCullough brings ancient Rome to life through meticulously researched portraits of historical figures. The series charts the transformation of Rome from republic to empire through military campaigns, political intrigue, and personal rivalries.

Readers follow the rise and fall of legendary figures including Julius Caesar, whose ambition and genius drive much of the narrative from the fourth book onward. McCullough renders these historical giants as fully realized characters with strengths, flaws, and complex motivations. The final installment, Antony and Cleopatra (2007), depicts the disastrous alliance between Mark Antony and the Egyptian queen, culminating in Octavian’s triumph and the birth of the Roman Empire.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many books are in the Masters of Rome series?

There are 7 books in the Masters of Rome series, published between 1990 and 2007.

Do I need to read the Masters of Rome series in order?

Yes, the series follows a chronological timeline from 110 BC to 27 BC, with each book building on previous events and character development.

How historically accurate is the series?

McCullough conducted extensive research using primary sources. While she fictionalized private moments and conversations, major historical events remain faithful to the historical record.

Who are the main characters in the series?

The series features real historical figures including Gaius Marius, Lucius Cornelius Sulla, Julius Caesar, Pompey the Great, Cicero, Mark Antony, and Octavian (later Augustus).

Reading order#

Frequently Asked Questions

Reading order