The Ballad is a Mystery series by Sharyn McCrumb, made up of 12 books published between 1990 and 2016. It begins with If Ever I Return, Pretty Peggy-O (1990), and is best read in publication order. The most recent entry is Prayers the Devil Answers (2016), spanning 26 years of storytelling.
12books
26years active
3decades
~2.4yrs between books
2016latest release
Ballad series: frequently asked questions
What order should I read the Ballad series?
Start with If Ever I Return, Pretty Peggy-O (1990), the first book in the Ballad series by Sharyn McCrumb. Follow the books in publication order for the best reading experience.
How many books are in the Ballad series?
There are 12 books in the Ballad series by Sharyn McCrumb, published between 1990 and 2016.
What is the first book in the Ballad series?
The first book in the Ballad series is If Ever I Return, Pretty Peggy-O, published in 1990 by Sharyn McCrumb.
What is the latest book in the Ballad series?
The most recent book in the Ballad series is Prayers the Devil Answers (2016) by Sharyn McCrumb.
About Sharyn McCrumb
Sharyn McCrumb (born August 12, 1948) is an American author known for her Appalachian-set mystery novels. Born in Marion, Virginia, she earned a degree in journalism from the University of Tennessee and worked as a reporter and editor before turning to writing full-time. McCrumb's novels often feature female protagonists and explore themes of family, history, and the human condition. Her breakout novel, "If I'd Killed Him When I Met Him," was published in 1986 and won the Agatha and Macavity Awards for Best First Novel. Other notable works include the Ballard and Morgan series and the Blackwater Mysteries. McCrumb has received numerous awards throughout her career, including six Agatha Awards, two Macavity Awards, and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Appalachian Writers Association. She is praised for her compelling storytelling, vivid characterization, and authentic portrayal of the Appalachian region.
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