Books In Order: A Dive into Ruth Downie’s Captivating Novels
Born in the city of Devon in England, Ruth Downie was charmed early on by the magic of books. She was an avid reader who loved to delve into the realms of historic fiction. However, her journey into becoming the leading author of the celebrated Medicus series was not immediate. Starting with a casual family trip to Adrian’s Wall, Ruth’s curiosity about Roman soldiers’ forbidden love affairs sparked a unique idea. A slow simmer of research about Roman Britain and its culture metamorphosed into the fascinating novel, “Medicus and the Disappearing Dancing Girls” that marked her entrance into writing.
Ruth Downie: The Person Behind the Words
Far from living the fantastical life of a writer from the start, Ruth had a grounded life, replete with marriage, kids, and a home she cherished. This ordinary life played a crucial role in shaping her extraordinary narratives. Her life experience, combined with her real personality traits – patience, curiosity, and perseverance allowed her to meticulously research and craft a tale that’s unique and compelling.
Unique Writing Style: Weaving History and Fiction Brilliantly
From an observer’s standpoint, Ruth’s magic lies in her ability to weave together history and fiction seamlessly. She doesn’t just provide a story; she takes her readers on a time-traveling journey. Each of her books in order, right from the first ‘Medicus’ novel to the latest one, is rich in historic detail. This excellent attention to detail is balanced beautifully with engaging plot lines and character development, making each book equally gripping.
Books in Order: The Engaging Path of Narrative
Key to Ruth Downie’s body of work is her insistence on creating books in order. Following her characters story from the beginnings in “Medicus and the Disappearing Dancing Girls”, through the chapters of their lives in the sequels, creates a profoundly immersive reading experience. It is this element which has made her works stand out and continues to earn her a dedicated readership that follows each of her books in order with great anticipation.
Publication Order of Medicus Investigation Books
| Medicus / Ruso and the Disappearing Dancing Girls | (2006) |    |
| Terra Incognita / Ruso and the Demented Doctor | (2008) | |
| Persona Non Grata / Ruso and the Root of All Evils | (2009) | |
| Caveat Emptor / Ruso and the River of Darkness | (2010) | |
| Semper Fidelis | (2013) | |
| Tabula Rasa | (2014) | |
| Vita Brevis | (2016) | |
| Memento Mori | (2018) | |
| Prima Facie | (2019) | |