Mary Stewart

Date of Birth: September 17, 1916

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Date of Death: May 9, 2014

Biography

Mary Florence Elinor Stewart, born Mary Florence Elinor Rainbow on September 17, 1916, in Sunderland, County Durham, England, was a renowned British novelist known for her romantic and historical fiction. She gained widespread acclaim for her novels blending romance, mystery, and historical fantasy, particularly her Merlin Trilogy. Stewart’s career began in the 1950s and spanned several decades, contributing significantly to the genre of romantic suspense. Stewart was educated at Durham University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in English. She later taught English and worked as a lecturer before dedicating herself to writing full-time. Her breakout novel, “Madam, Will You Talk?” was published in 1955 and set the tone for her future works, characterized by strong, intelligent female protagonists and vivid descriptions of exotic locations. Her Merlin Trilogy, starting with “The Crystal Cave” in 1970, established her as a master of historical fantasy, blending Arthurian legend with meticulously researched historical detail. Stewart’s writing has been praised for its lyrical prose, compelling characters, and intricate plots. Mary Stewart passed away on May 9, 2014, in Loch Awe, Scotland, leaving behind a legacy of beloved novels that continue to captivate readers around the world.

5 Interesting Facts about Mary Stewart

1. Mary Stewart was a pioneer of the romantic suspense genre, combining elements of romance and mystery in her novels.

2. She was a lecturer in English at Durham University before becoming a full-time writer.

3. Her Merlin Trilogy is considered a hallmark of modern Arthurian literature.

4. Stewart was awarded the Frederick Niven Literary Award in 1974 for her novel “The Hollow Hills.”

5. She was an avid gardener and often incorporated detailed descriptions of gardens and landscapes into her novels.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Mary Stewart

1. “There are few of us who are secure enough to be within love without proper encouragement.”

2. “It is harder to kill a whisper than even a shouted calumny.”

3. “The essence of a story is that it should have a beginning, a middle, and an end, and that it should be interesting and should move.”

4. “Perhaps it is only when one is in pain that one calls upon one’s reserves.”

5. “A person who sets his or her own course, without the aid of a map, is either a fool or an adventurer.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the height of her career, Mary Stewart’s net worth was estimated to be approximately $3 million, primarily earned through her bestselling novels and their adaptations.