10 Best Books About King Arthur That’ll Transport You to Camelot

Ever wondered what it would be like to sit at King Arthur’s Round Table, ride alongside Sir Lancelot, or unlock the secrets of Merlin’s magic? Trust me, you’re not alone.

The legend of King Arthur has fascinated people for centuries—probably because it’s the ultimate mix of heroism, magic, love, betrayal, and epic sword fights. Basically, it’s medieval drama at its finest.

But here’s the thing: Arthurian legend isn’t just one story—it’s a hundred stories told in a hundred different ways.

Some books make Arthur a noble king, others turn him into a flawed warlord, and a few even bring him into modern times (imagine King Arthur trying to use an iPhone!).

No matter what kind of story you love, I’ve got the perfect King Arthur book for you.

So, grab your imaginary sword, put on your metaphorical armor, and let’s dive into some truly legendary reads!

***Disclosure: Links included in this article may be affiliate links. If you purchase products using the links included, I may receive a commission; however, there is NO additional charge to you.***

1. The Once and Future King by T.H. White

If you only read one King Arthur book, make it this one. The Once and Future King is the classic retelling that inspired everything from Disney’s The Sword in the Stone to Harry Potter. It follows Arthur from his childhood as "Wart" to his reign as a legendary king.

✨ Why You Should Read It:

• It's a charming and witty take on the Arthurian legend.
• The story has heart, humor, and a touch of tragedy.
• If you love Merlin, you’ll adore this version of him—he’s basically Dumbledore before Dumbledore existed.

📖 Step into Arthur’s world with this timeless classic—get The Once and Future King here!

2. Le Morte d'Arthur by Sir Thomas Malory

This is the grandfather of all Arthurian books. First published in 1485, Le Morte d'Arthur is the ultimate collection of Arthurian legends, from the sword in the stone to the fall of Camelot. It’s epic, dramatic, and full of knightly action.

✨ Why You Should Read It:

• It’s the foundation of all Arthurian literature.
• A must-read if you want the “official” story of Arthur.
• Knights, quests, betrayals—it's basically Game of Thrones, medieval style.

⚔️ Want the real deal? Dive into Le Morte d'Arthur here!

3. The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley

Ever wondered what Arthur’s story looked like from the woman’s perspective? The Mists of Avalon tells the legend through the eyes of Morgaine (Morgan le Fay), Arthur’s half-sister. It’s feminist, mystical, and deeply immersive.

✨ Why You Should Read It:

• Gives a refreshing new perspective on Arthurian legend.
• Perfect for those who love strong female characters.
• Has a mystical, almost hypnotic writing style—seriously, you might forget what century you’re in.

🔮 See Camelot through a different lens—grab The Mists of Avalon here!

4. The Crystal Cave by Mary Stewart

Think Merlin is just some old guy with a beard? Think again. The Crystal Cave tells Merlin’s origin story, turning him into a fascinating, flesh-and-blood character rather than just a mysterious wizard.

✨ Why You Should Read It:

• A beautifully written, historical take on the legend.
• Turns Merlin into a real, complex character.
• If you love character-driven stories, this one’s for you.

🧙 Discover the origins of Merlin’s magic—read The Crystal Cave here!

5. The Winter King by Bernard Cornwell

If you love gritty, realistic historical fiction, this is your book. The Winter King strips away the magic and focuses on a realistic, battle-heavy version of Arthur’s Britain.

✨ Why You Should Read It:

• It’s gritty, raw, and totally immersive.
• No fairy tales here—this is Arthur as a warlord.
• Perfect if you love epic, character-driven stories.

🛡️ Experience Arthur’s Britain like never before—grab The Winter King here!

6. The Road to Avalon by Joan Wolf

Romance lovers, this one’s for you. The Road to Avalon explores the love story between Arthur and Morgan (yes, not Guinevere!). It’s an emotional, beautifully written novel.

✨ Why You Should Read It:

• A romantic, deeply moving retelling.
• Blends history with legend perfectly.
• If you love books that break your heart a little, you’ll adore this.

💖 Get lost in this unforgettable love story—read The Road to Avalon here!

7. Idylls of the King by Alfred, Lord Tennyson

Prefer poetry over prose? Tennyson’s Idylls of the King is a stunning, lyrical retelling of Arthurian legend. If you love beautiful writing and emotional depth, this is for you.

✨ Why You Should Read It:

• One of the most famous poetic adaptations of Arthurian tales.
• A deeply emotional and romantic take on Camelot.
• Perfect for fans of classic literature.

📜 Immerse yourself in the poetry of Camelot—get Idylls of the King here!

8. The Forever King by Molly Cochran & Warren Murphy

What if Arthur was reborn in modern times? That’s exactly what happens in The Forever King. It’s a fantasy-thriller with a cool reincarnation twist.

✨ Why You Should Read It:

• A unique modern take on the Arthurian legend.
• Combines myth, action, and mystery brilliantly.
• Perfect for fans of urban fantasy.

⚡ Discover a modern Arthurian adventure—get The Forever King here!

9. Sword at Sunset by Rosemary Sutcliff

Ever wanted a historical fiction take on Arthur without the fantasy elements? Sword at Sunset treats Arthur as a real historical figure, focusing on the brutal battles and politics of his time.

✨ Why You Should Read It:

• Strips away the magic and keeps things historically grounded.
• A rich, immersive story full of action.
• Feels real and raw, like you’re living in Arthur’s world.

🏹 Step into the past with Sword at Sunset—read it here!

10. The Lost Years by T.A. Barron

Another Merlin-centered story, but this time, it’s a fantasy adventure perfect for fans of Percy Jackson. The Lost Years follows young Merlin before he becomes the great wizard we all know.

✨ Why You Should Read It:

• A fun, fast-paced adventure.
• Great for younger readers and fantasy lovers.
• Explores Merlin’s journey to greatness.

✨ See Merlin like never before—grab The Lost Years here!

Conclusion

At the end of the day, the legend of King Arthur never gets old—it just keeps evolving with each new storyteller.

Whether you love classic mythology, historical fiction, or modern fantasy, there’s an Arthurian tale that’s perfectly tailored for you.

The real question is: Which Camelot will you step into first? Are you ready to follow Merlin’s mysterious past, uncover the romances and betrayals of Guinevere, or experience a gritty, battle-heavy version of Arthur’s world? Whatever you choose, one thing’s for sure—you’re in for an epic adventure.

So, which book are you reading first? Let me know—I’m always down to geek out over a great Arthurian tale! 😊