Mary Stewart

Mary Stewart (1916–2014) was a popular British author who specialized in romantic mystery and suspense novels, often with a gothic twist. She is best known for her Merlin series, which includes 'The Crystal Cave' and 'The Hollow Hills', reimagining the Arthurian legend from the perspective of the wizard Merlin. Stewart's writing is characterized by its rich descriptions, well-researched backgrounds, and strong, intelligent heroines.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Nine Coaches Waiting

    Cover of 'Nine Coaches Waiting' by Mary Stewart

    The novel is a suspenseful tale of a young Englishwoman who becomes a governess for a wealthy French family, only to find herself embroiled in danger and intrigue. Upon arriving at the grand estate, she is charmed by her nine-year-old charge and his enigmatic uncle, but soon uncovers a web of secrets that threatens the boy's life. As she navigates a world of deceit and hidden motives, she must use her wits and courage to protect her charge and unravel the mystery surrounding the family, all while confronting her own feelings of love and the haunting shadows of her past.

    The 1804th Greatest Book of All Time

  2. 2. The Crystal Cave

    Cover of 'The Crystal Cave' by Mary Stewart

    "The Crystal Cave" is a historical fiction novel that tells the story of Merlin, the legendary wizard of King Arthur's court. The book follows Merlin's early life, from his birth as the illegitimate son of a Welsh princess to his discovery of his magical powers and his journey to become a wise and powerful advisor to the future King Arthur. Set against the backdrop of early medieval Britain, the novel explores themes of destiny, power, and the struggle between pagan and Christian beliefs.

    The 2120th Greatest Book of All Time

  3. 3. My Brother Michael

    Cover of 'My Brother Michael' by Mary Stewart

    The novel is a romantic suspense story set in the picturesque backdrop of Greece, where a young Englishwoman, Camilla Haven, accidentally becomes embroiled in a dangerous adventure when she receives a car intended for someone else with a note pleading for help in Delphi. Driven by a sense of intrigue and the memory of her brother, who died in the war, she sets off to Delphi and meets a charismatic and mysterious Englishman who is searching for his brother's grave. Together, they become entangled in a perilous quest that leads them through ancient ruins and into the heart of a modern conspiracy, testing their courage and blossoming affection for one another.

    The 4547th Greatest Book of All Time

  4. 4. The Hollow Hills

    Cover of 'The Hollow Hills' by Mary Stewart

    "The Hollow Hills" is the second book in Mary Stewart's Arthurian Saga. The story follows Merlin, the wizard, as he helps Arthur claim his rightful place as King of Britain. Merlin must navigate treacherous political alliances and supernatural forces as he guides Arthur towards his destiny. Along the way, Merlin discovers secrets about his own past and must confront his own fears and doubts. The novel is a thrilling adventure full of magic, romance, and intrigue set against the backdrop of ancient Britain.

    The 10098th Greatest Book of All Time