The Crystal Cave, by Mary Stewart, is the first in her “Arthurian Saga”. Quite honestly, I devoured this book, which focuses on Merlin’s childhood, up until King Arthur is conceived. For people who enjoy Arthurian legend, classics, and history, this “trilogy” is perfect. Interestingly enough, the first three books are considered “The Magical Merlin Trilogy”, but a few years later, Stewart continued this series with the publication of the fourth book, The Wicked Day, which switches to the perspective of King Arthur’s son, Mordred.
In her adaptation, Stewart depicts Merlin’s childhood as anything but royal. Being born the “illegitimate” son to the King’s daughter, Merlin struggles from birth to be both invisible, and necessary. He walks a fine line, and on many occasions skirts those who wish him dead. His mother never reveals who his father is, and therefore he is considered “begotten by the devil”. These rumors are at times intensified due to the fact that even as a young boy, Merlin possesses the “Sight”, which he has inherited from his mother. This power causes him to know and see things that others have neither mentioned, nor yet come to pass.
The first part of this trilogy follows Merlin as he goes on quests that both shape him as a magician, and lead him into the arms of his father. The book is beautifully woven, and keeps readers wanting more. And thankfully, the entire trilogy has been published, so there is no wait time in between novels!