Best Cormac McCarthy Books Ranked: Top 14 in 2025
We crafted a cormac mccarthy books ranked list for you. Ready to explore dark tales, cowboy hats, and dusty landscapes? Yeehaw!
Welcome to the ultimate showdown: Cormac McCarthy books ranked! We’re about to embark on a wild literary ride through McCarthy’s haunting landscapes and unforgettable characters. Our picks focus on McCarthy’s unique storytelling, mind-bending plot twists, and unforgettable scenes that stick with you like peanut butter on bread. Whether you’re a McCarthy newcomer or a die-hard fan, this list helps you find the next masterpiece to devour. Let’s see how our favorites stack up in the world of Cormac McCarthy!
On this list:
14 Outer Dark by Cormac McCarthy
This haunting tale takes us through the dark woods of human nature. We love how McCarthy keeps us guessing. Just don’t read it at night.
13 The Orchard Keeper by Cormac McCarthy
McCarthy’s first book is like his literary baby photo. We see the seeds of his style. A must-read for his ardent fans.
12 Child of God by Cormac McCarthy
Lester Ballard, the protagonist, is not someone you’d invite for dinner. McCarthy paints a chilling picture of a man’s descent into madness.
11 Cities of the Plain by Cormac McCarthy
The final book in the ‘Border Trilogy’ ties up all loose ends. It’s like the end of a big meal where everything comes together.
10 The Gardener’s Son by Cormac McCarthy
McCarthy’s venture into screenplay writing shows his versatility. It’s like finding out your favorite musician can also paint.
9 The Sunset Limited by Cormac McCarthy
This play is a philosophical ping-pong match. It’s deep, but manageable. Just don’t expect any easy answers.
8 All the Pretty Horses by Cormac McCarthy
A love story with horses and adventure. We all wanted to be cowboys riding into the sunset after reading this one.
7 The Crossing by Cormac McCarthy
Part two of the ‘Border Trilogy’. It’s like the bridge that takes us on an emotional journey through the desert and back.
6 Suttree by Cormac McCarthy
McCarthy’s semi-autobiographical novel is dense, yet beautiful. It’s like eating a rich dessert that you can’t get enough of.
5 The Road by Cormac McCarthy
A father and son saga in a post-apocalyptic world. This book will stick with you and make you appreciate canned beans.
4 No Country for Old Men by Cormac McCarthy
This thriller is intense. Just reading it is like watching a movie unfold. We were on the edge of our seats.
3 Blood Meridian by Cormac McCarthy
Not for the faint-hearted. It’s violent, epic, and mythical all at once. We didn’t sleep for days after finishing it.
2 The Passenger by Cormac McCarthy
McCarthy’s recent book goes deep. It’s like peeling an onion of mystery and metaphysics. Expect to question everything.
1 The Border Trilogy: All the Pretty Horses, The Crossing, Cities of the Plain by Cormac McCarthy
This trilogy captures McCarthy’s mastery. Wild west, love, and loss come alive. The characters will ride into your heart and stay there.
