Book
The Crystal Cave
First published 1970
Myrddin Emrys grows up as the unwanted illegitimate child of a Welsh princess, protected by his intelligence and by visions that others fear or misunderstand. Escaping the violent court of his grandfather, he studies medicine, engineering and natural philosophy before entering the service of Ambrosius Aurelianus, the exiled claimant who plans to restore order in Britain.
As Ambrosius and Uther Pendragon contest the fractured island, Merlin becomes adviser, prophet and political instrument. His role in Uther’s pursuit of Igraine leads to the conception of Arthur, binding personal guilt to the future of Britain. Stewart grounds the familiar legend in post-Roman warfare while leaving room for a genuine but restrained supernatural gift.
Historical Periods
More from this period
5 more top-rated novels about Arthurian Britain
Ranked by rating and voting volume; books already shown on this page are omitted.
More by the author
Other books by Mary Stewart
Discover more
Authors similar to Mary Stewart
Recommended from shared genres and periods.
Rosemary Sutcliff
38 books
Gillian Bradshaw
20 books
Henry Treece
35 books