Order of Arthurian Saga Books

English author Mary Stewart's Arthurian Saga presents a captivating retelling of the legendary tales surrounding King Arthur and his court. This historical fantasy series brings fresh perspective to the timeless Arthurian myths, focusing heavily on Merlin's story throughout the first three volumes while also exploring King Arthur's family history, from his origins through his ascension to power.

Stewart launched the series in 1970 with The Crystal Cave, marking the beginning of what would become known as the Merlin Trilogy—the first three novels that center on the legendary wizard's tale. The main series reached its conclusion in 1983 with The Wicked Day. While The Prince and the Pilgrim, published in 1995, exists within the Arthurian legendary framework, it stands apart as its own story rather than a direct continuation of The Wicked Day's narrative.

The books follow both publication and chronological order, creating a seamless reading experience for fans following the saga from beginning to end.

In The Crystal Cave, readers meet the future Merlin as Myridden Emrys, an illegitimate child born to a Welsh princess. From his early years marked by mysterious visions and supernatural signs, Merlin's path unfolds from his prophetic service to High King Vortigern through the pivotal moments of Uther Pendragon's rise to the throne and the momentous birth of Arthur himself.