CARYL SAY

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why did you decide to write about Merlin the Enchanter?
  I have always been fascinated by the story of Merlin and by the concept of magic. Many years ago, I read the Merlin trilogy by Mary Stewart: The Crystal Cave, The Hollow Hills and The Last Enchantment. I loved those novels, and her portrayal of Merlin gave me a very vivid picture in my mind of who he might have been. Then, after I had watched a very different Merlin and King Arthur in BBC’s Merlin (2007-2012), I began to write my own version, with some unique twists. I have always felt that Merlin would appreciate my take on his story.
• What is your favorite part of writing a book?
  I particularly enjoy it when a new character just appears fully-formed in my mind. Also, it’s thrilling when I can picture every detail of my character—hair and eye color, height and weight, how his or her voice sounds, mannerisms and quirks. I dream about my characters, and think about them at work when I should be focusing on other things.
• Do you think that Merlin and his Crystal Cave were real?
  I have climbed Bryn Myrddin (Merlin’s Hill) in Carmarthen, Wales, and I firmly believe that at one time there could have been a cave opening on the eastern side of the hill. And since the stories about Merlin have persisted for many centuries, I’d like to think that it means that he was a real person.