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All ‘The Witcher’ Books, Ranked Worst To Best

I’m still salty about  Henry Cavill’s departure from  The Witcher . It’s hard to picture anyone else being the perfect Geralt of Rivia (sorry, Liam Hemsworth). Looking on the sunny side, when we jump back into the pages of  The Witcher  books, we can effortlessly conjure up the image of Cavill gallantly vanquishing those awful beasts. And for those who had the audacity to watch the TV adaptation before reading the books (myself included), I highly recommend embarking on the literary adventure, too. It’s like upgrading from a microwave dinner to a gourmet feast for your imagination. 

Author Andrzej Sapkowski meticulously shapes  the tale of Geralt of Rivia, a monster-slaying witcher  who trades his sword for some shiny coins, only to discover that life’s moral dilemmas are far more twisted than any creature he’s encountered. The stories hit home because they are more than just adventures in swordplay; they are perceptive explorations of the human (and non-human) psyche.  As impressive as all  The Witcher  novels are , some are unquestionably better than others. To determine which of these works deserves to be called “the best,” we’ve ranked them from worst to finest. Here are all the Witcher books ranked.

8. Blood of Elves  ( The Witcher Saga Book 1)

Blood of Elves , the inaugural full-length novel in Andrzej Sapkowski’s enchanting  Witcher  series, steps out of the shadow of its short story predecessors with the grace of a cat and the occasional stumble of a newborn fawn. This book marks the transition from the episodic escapades of Geralt of Rivia, our beloved monster-slaying hero with a heart as golden as his eyes, to a more expansive narrative. 

In this installment, Sapkowski invites us to the illustrious halls of Kaer Morhen, where witchers are brewed stronger than their potions, and then sweeps us across the richly imagined Continent from the bustling streets of Oxenfurt to the enigmatic ruins of Shaerrawedd. Unfortunately, the pacing of  Blood of Elves  sometimes resembles a wagon navigating a cobblestone road—jarring yet determined. And yes, the ending might leave readers feeling like guests at a banquet where dessert was promised but not served. 

7. Season of Storms  ( The Witcher Saga Book 6)

Season of Storms  is a prequel that playfully gambols around the timeline. Here, we rendezvous with Geralt in his vibrant, younger years, when his silver hair had a few less battle-worn tangles. The familiar and the novel coexist in this book, which serves up a delicious medley of Witcher staples like corrupt mages, horrific encounters, and social commentary served over a bed of medieval fantasy. 

Still,  Season of Storms  saunters along its own winding path, meandering through lengthy dialogues that sometimes stretch like a lazy cat in the sun. Sapkowski’s penchant for, shall we say, an appreciative eye towards his female characters takes a front-row seat, at times eliciting an eye-roll or two. Though it may lack the deep connective roots that intertwine the other books,  Season of Storms  is a nice enough detour offering a glimpse into the untold chronicles of our favorite silver-haired Witcher.

6.  Baptism of Fire  ( The Witcher  Saga Book 3)

The third installment is where the plot thickens. Here, Geralt of Rivia embarks on a quest reminiscent of an epic road trip, minus the cheery sing-alongs but brimming with enough swordplay and sorcery to keep things lively. In this volume, Geralt, ever the reluctant hero, assembles a crew—a hansa, if you will— including a sharp-shooting archer, a philosopher vampire, and the ever-loquacious bard Dandelion. Together, they traverse the Continent, which is rife with political intrigue.

Sapkowski writes a story rich in character development and ideological debate. The conversations among Geralt’s crew are full of wit and wisdom, often diving into the deeper end of life’s pool. Yet, not all is smooth sailing;  Baptism of Fire , like a spirited steed, occasionally bucks and rears, particularly when it shifts to Ciri’s less compelling escapades with the Rats. 

5.  Sword of Destiny  ( The Witcher  Short Stories Book 2)

Sword of Destiny  is   the second scintillating string of short stories in Andrzej Sapkowski’s  Witcher  universe. Like a well-aged potion, this collection effectively combines the bizarre and the philosophical without letting go of its sense of humor. Here, Geralt of Rivia finds himself entangled in various twisted scenarios. Sapkowski writes tales ranging from dopplers in distress to melancholic mermaids, each story highlighting a more decadent backdrop to the Witcher’s world. 

Sword of Destiny  is less about slicing through beasts and more about dissecting the complexities of fate, love, and the often-blurry line between monsters and men. Here, the relationship between Geralt and Yennefer dances with the instability of a cyclone. Ciri’s destiny also entwines with that of our stoic hero in a turn of events that is as inevitable as a prophecy. 

4.  The Tower of Swallows  ( The Witcher  Saga Book 4)

The Tower of Swallows  takes a sharp turn into the darker corridors of the series, where the shadows are as deep as the lore and just as intriguing. Here, we find our protagonist, Geralt of Rivia, a knight not so much in shining armor as in weathered leather and sarcasm, continuing his search for Ciri, his protégé. 

The story revolves around Ciri’s ordeal, which is both terrifying and thrilling in equal measure. Her journey, hampered by meetings with the heartless mercenary Leo Bonhart, unfolds with a storm’s intensity. Amid everything, Geralt’s quest swirls like a river, sometimes strong, other times slow, replete with close encounters and near misses that leave the reader perched on the edge of their seat.

3.  The Last Wish  ( The Witcher  Short Stories Book 1)

With a fusion of the magical and the satirical, Andrzej Sapkowski’s  The Last Wish , his initial foray into the world of Geralt of Rivia, serves as an entrée to the magnificent banquet that is  The Witcher  series. This collection of short stories introduces us to our silver-haired, monster-hunting hero. 

Each story carries dark humor and moral complexity, all written in Sapkowski’s inimitable style. Within these pages, we see Geralt tangling with not just creatures of the night but also the often more perplexing intricacies of human (and inhuman) nature. The tales, from a morally ambiguous altercation with a Striga to the titular “Last Wish,” showcasing a budding, tumultuous romance with the enigmatic Yennefer, are as varied as the potions in Geralt’s kit. 

2.  The Time of Contempt  ( The Witcher  Saga Book 2)

The story really starts to heat up in  The Time of Contempt , where tensions rise like steam from a dragon’s nostrils. In this installment, Geralt of Rivia must face terrible creatures, sorcery, and politics, a challenge that may be even greater than taking on a basilisk without his silver blade.  The Time of Contempt  is the series’ culminating novel, and its characters and plots go all out for the ball by engaging in a dangerous dance of intrigue and betrayal.

Sapkowski, like a master chef of storytelling, knows just how to spice up a tale. The Isle of Thanedd coup, a centerpiece of the novel, unfurls, revealing layers of conspiracy and shifting allegiances. Amid this, we witness the young Ciri, Geralt’s ward, stepping into her power, an arc as compelling as it is full of danger. It’s a book where every character, from sorcerers to kings, plays a high-stakes game, and Geralt, the reluctant participant, finds himself at the heart of the storm. 

1.  The Lady of the Lake  ( The Witcher  Saga Book 5)

With all the magic of a climactic scene in a big play, Andrzej Sapkowski’s  The Lady of the Lake  shines as the crowning jewel of his Witcher saga. This installment is where the fates of Geralt, Yennefer, and Ciri culminate. Ciri’s ability to navigate space and time takes center stage, and the journey is bursting with tales, from the serene Duchy of Toussaint to the climactic face-offs that fans have eagerly awaited. 

The Lady of the Lake  isn’t just an ending; it’s a culmination of myth, a convergence of paths long traveled. The resolution is as satisfying as a well-timed spell, tying up loose ends with the precision of a master witcher’s blade. Yet, in true Sapkowski fashion, it leaves room for pondering.

(featured image: Netflix)

Book Review: The Witcher – Time of Contempt [2] By Andrzej Sapkowski

After decades of oppression, the elves and other races are fighting each other and attacking the humans in ever-growing numbers. The kings and armies fear invasion from across the river – but fear their neighbours more. Dissent and intrigue fester in this time of contempt. As Ciri learns to control her magic, Geralt and Yennefer must protect the orphaned heir who is sought by all sides. For the child of prophecy has the power to change the world – if she lives to use it.

Time of Contempt is the second novel in Andrzej Sapkowski’s epic series set in the Witcher World, following Blood of Elves .

ISBN: 978-1-473-23109-2 Translated by David French

About The Witcher, Time of Contempt

After setting the tone of the world, putting all the pieces in place and giving us the backstory to how it all came to be, we are finally fully underway in this second book of The Witcher saga. The story starts as a smooth transition from the first book, where we are still one foot out in the wild with Geralt and another foot set in the sophisticated world of the Sorceries, but soon that all changes and we are plunged into politics. 

The latter half of the book is nothing but characters, plot, sinister planning, betrayal and allegiance. We discover all the nitty gritty of the powers that be and each one’s place on the side of war that seems inevitable. In the beginning, you almost feel overwhelmed with the number of sectors involved, but you don’t have time to dwindle on names, movements and scandal as the conversation all comes to an abrupt stop and we are back in the action again of chaos, destruction and deceit.

Ciri’s story continues, mostly with her relationship with Yennefer in this book, as Geralt travels trying to find the truth behind who exactly she is and what exactly everyone wants with her. 

Would I recommend The Witcher, Time of Contempt ?

The second book is a bit denser and thicker to get through than the first, as it feels less of an adventure book with fantasy creatures and magic and more like George Martin book of plot and kings with their dodgy advisors constantly making plans only for them to shatter. I prefer the more adventure type of book, so out of all the Witcher books so far, this wasn’t my favourite. But despite that, I also know that this needs to happen for the story to evolve, gain momentum and become the epic tale I know it soon will become. 

Of course, if you have read this far, we need to continue. So onward from here to Baptism of Fire .

Lore about The Witcher, Time of Contempt

Sapkowski is known for his cynical and often critical view of power and politics, which is evident throughout Time of Contempt. Sapkowski has spoken in interviews about his distrust of political leaders and how they often prioritize their own interests over the well-being of the people. This worldview heavily influences the portrayal of political and magical elites in the novel.

Sapkowski has also mentioned that the events leading up to and during the Thanedd coup were influenced by real-life events in Eastern Europe, particularly the political upheavals that occurred in Poland and the broader Soviet bloc during the 20th century. While many readers and critics lauded the book for its depth and complexity, some found the political focus and the shift away from Geralt’s monster-hunting adventures to be a departure from what they loved in the earlier works. Something that I related to myself.

Sapkowski has addressed this by emphasizing that the series was always meant to evolve into a larger, more intricate saga.

In Time of Contemp t, there is a scene where Geralt fights a windmill, which is a clear nod to Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes. This reference is a playful homage to the famous scene in Don Quixote where the titular character mistakes windmills for giants and charges at them.

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Are The Witcher Books Good? A Comprehensive Review

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Are the Witcher books good? This is a question that has been asked by many fans of the popular series, especially since the release of the Netflix adaptation in 2019. The Witcher books were written by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski and have been translated into several languages. They follow the adventures of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter known as a witcher, as he navigates a world filled with political intrigue, magic, and danger.

The Witcher books have gained a cult following over the years, with many fans praising Sapkowski’s writing style, world-building, and character development. However, some readers have criticized the books for their pacing, structure, and sometimes convoluted plotlines. So, are the Witcher books good? The answer is not a simple one, as it depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in a book series. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Witcher books and their impact on popular culture, as well as some of the key differences between the books and the Netflix series.

Key Takeaways

• The Witcher books have gained a cult following over the years, with many fans praising Sapkowski’s writing style, world-building, and character development.
• Some readers have criticized the books for their pacing, structure, and sometimes convoluted plotlines.
• Whether or not the Witcher books are good is subjective and depends on personal preferences, but they are worth checking out if you’re a fantasy fan and enjoy complex, character-driven stories.

Overview of The Witcher Books

If you are a fan of fantasy novels, you may have heard of the popular book series The Witcher , written by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski. The series follows the adventures of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter known as a witcher who travels through a world filled with magic, elves, and monsters.

The Witcher series consists of eight books, including two collections of short stories and six novels. The first book, The Last Wish , is a collection of short stories that introduce the main character, Geralt of Rivia, and his world. The second collection of short stories, Sword of Destiny , delves deeper into Geralt’s relationships with the sorceress Yennefer and the young princess Ciri.

The six novels in the series, Blood of Elves , Time of Contempt , Baptism of Fire , The Tower of Swallows , T he Lady of the Lake , and Season of Storms , continue Geralt’s journey as he protects Ciri, who is believed to be the key to the world’s destiny.

The Witcher books are known for their complex characters, intricate world-building, and morally ambiguous themes. The series explores topics such as family, destiny, and the consequences of one’s actions. The books also contain a diverse cast of characters, including sorceresses, knights, and elves, each with their own unique backstory and motivations.

If you are interested in reading The Witcher books, starting with The Last Wish and Sword of Destiny is recommended, as they provide a foundation for the rest of the series. However, the books can be read in chronological order as well.

Overall, The Witcher books offer a captivating and immersive reading experience for fans of fantasy novels. The series has also inspired a popular video game franchise and a Netflix television series.

The Witcher Books and Their Impact

If you’re wondering whether The Witcher books are worth reading, you might be interested in their impact on popular culture. Written by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski, The Witcher series has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring video games, a Netflix adaptation, and graphic novels published by Dark Horse Comics.

The books are set in a fantasy universe and follow the adventures of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter with supernatural powers. The series begins with two short story collections, The Last Wish and Sword of Destiny , which introduce Geralt and his world. The following novels, starting with Blood of Elves , focus on Geralt’s quest to protect Ciri, a young princess with a prophecy hanging over her head.

One of the strengths of the series is its characters. Geralt is a complex and flawed hero, and the supporting cast includes memorable figures like Yennefer, a powerful sorceress, and Ciri, a fierce and determined young woman. The books also explore themes like love, morality, and destiny, making them more than just straightforward adventure stories.

The success of The Witcher books has led to a wider appreciation of Polish fantasy literature, and the series has been translated into numerous languages. The books have also had a significant impact on the video game industry, with CD Projekt Red’s The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt becoming one of the most acclaimed games of all time.

Overall, The Witcher books are a must-read for fans of fantasy fiction. They offer a rich and detailed world full of memorable characters, and their impact on popular culture cannot be overstated. Whether you’re a fan of the video games or the Netflix series, reading the books will give you a deeper appreciation for the world of The Witcher.

Character Analysis in The Witcher Books

The characters in The Witcher books are complex and multi-dimensional, which is one of the reasons why they are so beloved by readers. Here are some of the key characters in the series and what makes them unique:

Geralt is the titular character of the series, a Witcher who is known for his white hair and yellow eyes. He is a skilled fighter and monster hunter, but he is also a deeply introspective character who often questions his own actions and beliefs. Geralt is a man of few words, but his actions speak volumes. He is often torn between his duty as a Witcher and his desire to do what is right.

Yennefer is a powerful sorceress who is also Geralt’s love interest. She is a complex character who is often seen as cold and calculating but who also has a vulnerable side. Yennefer is fiercely independent and is not afraid to stand up for herself or others. She is also a master of manipulation, which sometimes puts her at odds with Geralt.

Ciri is a young princess who is also a key player in the series. She is a strong-willed character who is not afraid to speak her mind. Ciri is also a skilled fighter and has been trained in the ways of the Witcher. She has a close relationship with Geralt, who sees her as a surrogate daughter.

Dandelion (Jaskier)

Dandelion, also known as Jaskier, is a bard who is often seen as comic relief in the series. He is a flamboyant character who loves to sing and tell stories. Dandelion is also a loyal friend to Geralt and often accompanies him on his adventures.

Family is a major theme in The Witcher books, and many of the characters have complex relationships with their families. Geralt, for example, was taken from his family at a young age to become a Witcher. Ciri is also separated from her family and is forced to navigate a dangerous world on her own.

Overall, the characters in The Witcher books are well-developed and multi-dimensional. They each have their own unique personalities and motivations, which makes for a compelling read.

The Witcher Books vs. The Witcher Series

If you’re a fan of The Witcher, you may be wondering how the books compare to the Netflix series. While the show is based on the book series by Andrzej Sapkowski, there are some key differences between the two.

Geralt of Rivia

The main character, Geralt of Rivia, is fairly consistent between the books and the series. However, there are some notable differences. In the books, Geralt is portrayed as more of a lone wolf, while in the series he has a close relationship with both Yennefer and Ciri. Additionally, Geralt’s backstory is explored more in the books, particularly his time at Kaer Morhen.

Yennefer and Ciri

Yennefer and Ciri are both major characters in both the books and the series, but their stories differ somewhat. In the books, Yennefer is portrayed as more ruthless and ambitious, while in the series she is more vulnerable and emotional. Ciri’s story is also somewhat different between the two. In the books, she spends more time with the dryads in Brokilon Forest, while in the series she is taken in by a group of bandits.

The Witcher series has also spawned a successful video game franchise, and the games have had an impact on both the books and the series. For example, the design of Geralt’s armor in the series is based on the armor from the games. Additionally, some of the characters from the games, such as Triss Merigold, have a larger role in the series than they do in the books.

The Netflix Adaptation

Overall, the Netflix adaptation of The Witcher is fairly faithful to the books, but there are some differences. Some of these differences are due to the limitations of the medium – for example, the books can explore Geralt’s internal monologue in a way that the series cannot. Additionally, the series has made some changes to the timeline of events in the books.

The Witcher Season 2

The second season of The Witcher has been highly anticipated, and fans of the books are eager to see how the series will adapt the events of the books. While it’s likely that there will be some differences between the two, fans can rest assured that the series will remain true to the spirit of the books.

In conclusion, while there are some differences between the books and the series, both are excellent in their own right. If you’re a fan of The Witcher, you owe it to yourself to check out both the books and the series.

The Witcher Books and Video Games

If you are a fan of The Witcher, you may have wondered which is better – the books or the video games? The answer is not straightforward, as both have their own unique strengths and weaknesses.

The Witcher series began as a collection of short stories by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski, which were later compiled into novels. The books follow the adventures of Geralt of Rivia, a skilled monster hunter known as a Witcher, as he navigates political intrigue and battles supernatural creatures. The books are known for their complex characters, mature themes, and detailed world-building.

CD Projekt Red, a Polish video game developer, adapted the books into a series of critically acclaimed video games, including The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt . The games follow Geralt as he completes quests, battles monsters, and makes choices that affect the game’s story and ending. The games are praised for their immersive world, engaging story, and memorable characters.

While the books and video games share many similarities, there are also significant differences between the two. The books offer a more in-depth exploration of Geralt’s character and the world he inhabits, while the video games offer a more interactive and immersive experience.

One of the main differences between the two is the level of player choice. While the books offer a fixed narrative, the video games allow players to make choices that affect the story and ending. This means that players can experience different outcomes based on their decisions, which adds to the replay value of the games.

Another difference is the pacing of the story. The books are slower-paced and more focused on character development and world-building, while the video games are more action-packed and focused on completing quests and battling monsters.

Overall, whether you prefer the books or the video games will depend on your personal preferences. If you enjoy immersive worlds and player choice, the video games may be more your style. If you prefer character development and detailed world-building, the books may be more up your alley.

Reading Order of The Witcher Books

If you’re looking to read the Witcher books, it’s important to know the correct reading order. The books were originally written in Polish, but have since been translated into many languages, including English. Here are the books in the order they should be read:

• The Last Wish : This is a collection of short stories that introduce the world of the Witcher and its characters. It’s recommended to start here to get a good understanding of the world and its inhabitants before diving into the novels.
• Sword of Destiny : This is also a collection of short stories that continue to introduce the world and characters of the Witcher. It’s recommended to read this book after The Last Wish.
• Blood of Elves : This is the first full-length novel in the series and continues the story of Geralt of Rivia, the main character. It’s recommended to read this book after the two short story collections.
• Time of Contempt : This is the second full-length novel in the series and continues the story of Geralt and his companions. It’s recommended to read this book after Blood of Elves.
• Baptism of Fire : This is the third full-length novel in the series and continues the story of Geralt and his companions as they navigate a war-torn world. It’s recommended to read this book after Time of Contempt.
• The Tower of the Swallow : This is the fourth full-length novel in the series and continues the story of Geralt and his companions as they face new challenges and enemies. It’s recommended to read this book after Baptism of Fire.
• The Lady of the Lake : This is the final full-length novel in the series and concludes the story of Geralt and his companions. It’s recommended to read this book after The Tower of the Swallow.
• Season of Storms : This is a standalone novel set between the short story collections and the first full-length novel. It’s recommended to read this book after The Last Wish and Sword of Destiny.

It’s important to note that while it’s recommended to read the books in this order, it’s not necessary to strictly follow it. Some readers prefer to read the books in chronological order, starting with Season of Storms and then moving on to the rest of the series. However, this can be confusing as the events of Season of Storms take place before The Last Wish .

Overall, it’s up to you to decide which reading order works best for you. Just make sure to read The Last Wish and Sword of Destiny before diving into the full-length novels to get the full experience of the world of the Witcher.

In conclusion, the Witcher books by Andrzej Sapkowski are a must-read for fans of fantasy literature. With its richly developed world, complex characters, and enthralling narratives, the Witcher saga has gained a dedicated following.

While some readers may find the books challenging due to their nonlinear structure and complex plotlines, the payoff is well worth it. The Witcher books offer a unique and immersive reading experience that will keep you engaged from beginning to end.

Moreover, the books offer a different perspective on the characters and the world of the Witcher than the popular TV series and video games. The books delve deeper into the history and mythology of the world, providing a richer and more nuanced understanding of the characters and their motivations.

Overall, if you are a fan of the Witcher franchise, or just looking for a new fantasy series to dive into, we highly recommend giving the Witcher books a chance. With their intricate world-building, complex characters, and gripping storylines, they are sure to provide hours of entertainment and leave you eager for more.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the reading order for the witcher books.

The Witcher books should be read in the following order:

• The Last Wish
• Sword of Destiny
• Blood of Elves
• Time of Contempt
• Baptism of Fire
• The Tower of Swallows
• Lady of the Lake

Do The Witcher books improve as the series goes on?

Many readers believe that The Witcher books get better as the series goes on. The first two books are collections of short stories, while the rest of the series is a continuous narrative. Some readers may find the short story format less engaging than the novels, but the series as a whole is highly regarded.

Are The Witcher books available in English?

Yes, all of The Witcher books have been translated into English. They were originally written in Polish by Andrzej Sapkowski.

Are The Witcher books appropriate for all ages?

The Witcher books are not appropriate for all ages. They contain violence, sexual content, and mature themes. They are intended for a mature audience.

Have all The Witcher books been published?

Yes, all of The Witcher books have been published. The series consists of eight books in total, including seven novels and a collection of short stories.

Why are The Witcher books so popular?

The Witcher books are popular for a variety of reasons. They feature complex characters, intricate world-building, and a unique take on traditional fantasy tropes. The series has also gained a wider audience thanks to the success of the video games and the Netflix adaptation.

Victoria Cornell

Victoria Cornell helps women adopt a positive mindset even when the struggles of motherhood feel overwhelming. On her sites, Motherhood Life Balance, Neon Moon and Bookworm Era she writes about ways to reduce stress with mindset, manifesting, goal planning, productivity, and more.

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The Witcher Book Review: ‘The Last Wish’ by Andrzej Sapkowski

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In a world where fairy tales are born and monsters are real, lives a man who denies the first and kills the second. His name is Geralt and he is a witcher. From childhood he has been raised with one purpose: to destroy monsters at every turn. But just because something looks like a monster doesn’t make it evil, and appearing to be good is no guarantee of kindness. It’s up to Geralt to determine what is right or wrong and protect the world from the real monsters. Meet this last great warrior in Andrzej Sapkowski’s The Last Wish (Translated into English by Danusia Stok ).

[ Warning : My review of The Last Wish contains some spoilers !]

The beginning of the witcher’s tale

Witchers are taken from their families at a young age and trained to be ruthless assassins. They are subjected to horrible magical and medicinal transformations to make them into the perfect killing machines. Few candidates (the safe way of saying children) make it through the trials alive to become witchers.

Of those that have made it, none have undergone as many mutations as Geralt of Rivia (played by Henry Cavill in Netflix’s The Witcher series). He executes his work with amazing grace and skill. Songs are sung about him throughout the land. 

Yet most of the time he is alone. Most people are afraid of witchers. Not only are they highly skilled fighters but the many trials they go through also rob them of their emotions. This is supposed to make them better warriors. But something went wrong with Geralt. He claims to have no emotions, and he doesn’t seem to have quite the responses that most humans have, but there is no denying that he does have some feelings and attachments.

The Last Wish shows attachments aren’t weaknesses

One of these attachments is to his friend Dandelion. Dandelion is a wandering troubadour. He and Geralt have many chance meetings during their travels. And whenever they meet up they travel together for a while. Dandelion helps to bring some humanity to Geralt, and mischief. Geralt always seems to end up in some kind of trouble when Dandelion is around. Sometimes it is the poet’s fault and sometimes he just seems to attract trouble.

Geralt’s other attachment is to Yennifer (yes with a Y). Yennifer is a sorceress. Like Geralt, she underwent numerous magical changes to become what she is. Those changes left deep scars that can’t be seen. But Geralt sees them. And he falls in love with her, although he denies even being able to feel love. Their weird on-again off-again romance is heartbreaking. Both are so afraid that they aren’t enough and that they can’t really be happy that they sabotage their own best chance at happiness before they can really even get started.

A different style for this Andrzej Sapkowski novel

The Last Wish isn’t your normal adventure book with one large exciting story tying the chapters together. It’s more of an anthology or even just an accounting of Geralt’s life. There is no overarching goal that Geralt is trying to achieve. No big adventure, war, treasure hunt, or promise to fulfill. Even the title doesn’t come in until the last story, and it is only related to that one story.

It’s also interesting to me that each story didn’t fit neatly into one chapter. Some stories had multiple chapters, some stories shared chapters. It was almost more of a journal but presented as a normal, third-person narrator novel. 

What it really reminded me of is a monster-of-the-day television show. Fans of early Supernatural seasons or X-Files will enjoy and appreciate the format. I actually enjoyed the lack of a higher purpose. I’ve always wondered something about heroes that have big adventures: what do they do when it’s over? I mean you save the world and then what? I felt like The Last Wish gave me a glimpse of the answer. They just keep going. 

Now Geralt doesn’t save the world (that’s the point I was making a couple of sentences ago) but he does have some really harrowing battles. And he just gets up the next day and goes to the next village and does it all over again. This made him seem more real because The Last Wish was just his daily grind. He wasn’t someone fantastic who did something incredible and then disappeared. He was there day in and day out just working to make things better when he was. It was a really different approach to the hero genre and I really enjoyed the change.

Multiple media forms try to tell Geralt of Rivia’s tale

Geralt’s exploits as a witcher are so exciting that one form of media just wasn’t enough for them. The Witcher has been transformed into a video game and a Netflix series of the same name. The first season of The Witcher was based on The Last Wish and Sapkowski’s second book Sword of Destiny (that review is coming soon). The second season was based on The Blood of Elves. The newest season, coming out June 29th and July 27th will be based on Time of Contempt. And hypothetically the fourth season will be based on Baptism by Fire when it is released. The video game is set in the future after the books and is its own story.

Now all these adaptations are fine. Plenty of people like them (I enjoyed the Netflix series). But for me, the best form will always be the books. The detail is so much richer and the internal thoughts are just too difficult to translate to the screen. So if you already have experience with The Witcher  through these other outlets, I highly recommend checking out the source material. 

The Last Wish has a bunch of exciting mini-adventures. Part of what made the book so fun to read was the number of fairy tales that Sapkowski weaves into Geralt’s exploits. I have always loved fairy tales so seeing Sapkowski’s twists on these stories made my day. As he says “in every fairy tale there is a grain of truth” and it was fun to see the “truth”. 

My Rating: 8/10

The Last Wish by Andrzej Sapkowski (Translated into English by Danusia Stok )   is available now!  Will you be checking this novel out? Let us know on Twitter or in The Cosmic Circus Discord.

Review: The Witcher: Blood Origin

Luna Gauthier

I've always been a bookworm and fantasy is my favortie genre. I never imagined (okay, I imagined but I didn't think) that I could get those books sent to me for just my opinion. Now I am a very happy bookworm! @Lunagauthier19 on Twitter

Luna Gauthier has 234 posts and counting. See all posts by Luna Gauthier

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Blog – Posted on Wednesday, Dec 18

How to read the witcher books in order (2024 update).

Since the release of Netflix’s 2019 adaptation of The Witcher, everyone's been buzzing with the same age-old question: are the books better?

We're biased towards books ourselves, of course. But we'll let you decide for yourself — and we'll be here to help you the entire way with the best reading order for The Witcher books.

But first, for anyone new to the series, here's a quick refresher: the origins of The Witcher books actually go all the way back to the 1980s, when Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski entered a short story called The Witcher into a contest run by the magazine Fantastyka . Placing third, that entry spawned a collection of short stories that then inspired the publication of a five-novel series, the Witcher Saga — which then became an entire franchise.

The Witcher focuses on Geralt of Rivia, a man with supernatural abilities that enable him to fight beasts and monsters . The novels primarily revolve around his goal to protect Ciri, a young princess of a recently conquered country who has a great prophecy hanging over her head — but the series is also so much more than that. These are stories that hit hard , by turns sweeping you up in the adventure of slaying monsters, wringing you through the epic tragedy of war, and breaking your heart with the perfect redemption romance.

Here’s a quick look at the series in their recommended reading order, so that you know what you’re in for:

• The Last Wish (2007)
• Sword of Destiny (2015)
• Blood of Elves (2008)
• The Time of Contempt (2013)
• Baptism of Fire (2014)
• The Tower of Swallows (2016)
• The Lady of the Lake (2017)
• Seasons of Storms (2018)

Without further ado, let's dive in!

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1. The Last Wish

While it may be tempting to jump straight into the novels, you should really start here. This short story collection contains the roots of the Witcher books, and will provide you with background information and character details that will be important once you get into the full-length books.

The Last Wish contains seven stories. The first one serves as a framing device, showing an injured Geralt seeking shelter in a temple; as such, it’s actually broken up into smaller sections and scattered between all the other stories. The remaining six are memories that he flashes back to while recuperating, each one with its own narrative arc. Together, they allow us to really get to know Geralt in all his complexity. The stories are clever, epic, and daring — perfectly setting the stage for the novels to come.

2. Sword of Destiny

While the English edition of Sword of Destiny was published after the first few novels were released in English, the stories within actually take place before the events of the series. That’s why we’d recommend you pick up this one next.

Unlike the first collection, Sword of Destiny follows a much more straightforward timeline: we’re treated to six more amazing stories in roughly chronological order. Many of them provide context for major characters in the main Witcher Saga, including the introduction of Ciri. In fact, one of the stories serves as a direct prequel to Blood of Elves , showcasing events from shortly before that book begins. If you’re looking for a full picture of the Witcher storyline, this is a vital book to add to your list.

3. Blood of Elves

With Blood of Elves, the main saga begins in earnest. Blood of Elves is set about a year after the downfall of Ciri’s kingdom. This tragedy sets off a hunt for the missing princess, with factions on all sides vying to get their hands on her. Unfortunately for them, young princess Ciri has fallen under the protection of one of the most famous witchers alive.

Taken to safety to learn how to hone her skills, the rambunctious and headstrong Ciri wants nothing more than to follow in the footsteps of Geralt, the man she admires so much. But as her powers grow, Geralt is compelled to mend bridges with his long-lost love, Yennefer of Vengerburg, for help. Yennefer’s skills as a witch are exactly what Ciri needs to hone the power she’s destined to wield — but as Yennefer and Ciri’s bond grows, so too does the evil that seeks Ciri out.

After the breakneck pace of the short story collections, some readers might find this book a bit of a slow start — but don’t let that fool you. There is plenty of adventure to be found in Ciri’s struggle to grow up, and in the subsequent books, the payoff for all this setup will absolutely be rewarded.

4. The Time of Contempt

Time of Contempt picks up where Blood of Elves left off. Ciri and Yennefer set off for the city of Gors Velen. Yennefer hopes to enroll Ciri in a magical academy there — but of course, even the best-laid plans can go awry. Between an incident involving a Wyvern, Ciri’s own rebellious escapades, and a long-overdue reunion with Geralt, there’s more than enough for Yennefer to keep track of as she attempts to protect the wayward princess.

But the book is also much larger than that. Here, the pace of the series jumpstarts, as all the major plot threads in the rest of the series ignite. This huge book is a wild ride, with everything from spies and betrayals, to seductive sorceresses and unicorns, to the very real danger of a war erupting. It’s a story about vulnerability and control, about humility, about chaos breaking out across the world. The pacing leaves you breathless, unable to escape the need to find out what happens next.

5. Baptism of Fire

This is the midpoint of the series, and Geralt is certainly in the thick of things by now. In Baptism of Fire, war continues to rage on, and all sides are growing increasingly determined. In the aftermath of events from the previous book, Geralt is recovering from injuries — but how can a protector protect if he’s unable to fight?

Geralt’s determination drives much of this book, as he rallies and gathers allies in an effort to reach Ciri before the rumors of her impending marriage can come true. It’s a complex, nuanced book that explores what it means to be a “monster.” It tears old bonds apart as Ciri takes a turn down a darker path, and it throws Yennefer against terrible odds as she’s imprisoned and struggling to reunite with her family. The slow tension draws you along, never once allowing you to let your guard down.

6. The Tower of Swallows

Ciri returns to center stage in The Tower of Swallows. Everyone is hunting her, but she’s retreated into an anonymous life of banditry and killing... until fate intervenes, and her life is changed once again.

Much of Ciri’s recent story is told in recalled flashback, similar to the framing story of The Last Wish . Some of what she experiences at the hands of a chilling new villain may be difficult to read, but they’re important to understand the depths of her torment and the lengths she will later go to for exacting revenge.

Meanwhile, Yennefer and Geralt deal with situations on their own: she’s seeking out old allies in her quest to find Ciri, and he ends up seduced by someone he probably shouldn’t have allowed himself to fall for. The pacing here returns to the slower setup of a few of the previous novels, building for the payoff of the final book. But it’s still thoroughly engrossing, as Ciri processes her recent past and learns what she’ll need to in order to strike out at those who’ve caused her pain.

7. The Lady of the Lake

All good things must come to an end. For many authors, it’s a struggle to figure out how to write an ending to such an epic fantasy series, but Sapkowski is more than up to the task.

The Lady of the Lake finds Ciri trapped on an elven world, alone and cut off from the people she loves. But where others may fall into desperation, Ciri faces her challenge with the determination we’ve grown to expect from the former princess. Meanwhile, Geralt and Yennefer continue in their adventures as they search for the young woman they’ve grown to see as a daughter. Readers will ache to see if the “family” will ever be reunited and get the happy ending they so richly deserve.

We’re not going to say more for risk of spoiling the many surprises this concluding book takes. What we will say is that it’s loaded with cleverly plotted twists and turns, and features appearances by pretty much every character that’s been introduced so far. This book is a thrilling wrap-up to a beloved series.

8. Season of Storms

Although Season of Storms was one of the last Witcher books to be published, it actually takes place after most of the stories in the first collection, but before the novels.

So why did we list it last? Simple: although the timeline is earlier, it ties directly into a major conflict that takes place in the previous five novels. Reading it beforehand will be less interesting without the context — and it spoils several moments from the other books.

For those who have read the rest of the series, however, this standalone prequel will be a welcome dip back into the world of The Witcher , as we follow Geralt on a quest to regain his lost signature weapons. A satisfying dessert to follow the incredibly rich meal that was the rest of the Witcher books.

9. Bonus: The comics adaptations!

Last, in addition to the Netflix series and video game franchise, The Witcher has also been adapted into graphic novels. A couple of times, in fact! And while the earlier series have not been translated to English, Dark Horse Comics started a Witcher series in 2014 based on the storyline from the video games.

Written by Paul Tobin, with art by Joe Querio, this comic series has covered four different story arcs so far. They’re currently available in a trade pub bind up (as well as a single-volume collection of the first three arcs), and make the perfect addition if you finish the books and find yourself wishing to spend just a little more time in the Witcher universe.

The Witcher Volume 1: House of Glass

The Witcher Volume 2: Fox Children

The Witcher Volume 3: Curse of Crows

The Witcher Library Edition Volume 1

The Witcher Volume 4: Of Flesh and Flame

And there you have it — everything you need to know to dive into the rich and engrossing world of the Witcher books. Pick them up today, and you’ll be ready to laud your spoilery knowledge over all your friends as they wait for season two to drop on Netflix.

Can’t get enough fantasy stories? We’ve got you covered! Check out our list of the Best Fantasy Books of All Time , or find a new favorite with our guide to all the different Fantasy Subgenres .

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Geralt of Rivia

Author : Andrzej Sapkowski Publisher : Orbit Genre : Fantasy

It is no small secret among the staff in the video game department at Geeks Under Grace that I am incorrigible in my Witcher fandom. The  first game alerted me into the franchise’s universe despite its jank; the second game utterly enthralled me; the thir d   put to rest my vacillating when asked what is the greatest game of all time. As CD Projekt RED escalates its marketing for Cyberpunk 2077, so too have I scheduled my life in anticipation of its release. I invested 120 hours of blissful gameplay with Witcher 3, yet never played its two expansions, Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine, despite purchasing them, not wanting the excellence of the chronicles to end. Therefore, I decided to prolong my enjoyment by reading the Witcher novels first!

As usual with fans of fiction based upon a book series, they would claim the literature’s superiority. At the time that I learned of a Witcher novel series, they had yet to be translated from Polish to English. Still feeling the burn of reading through George R. R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire (pun intended) with no conclusion to that series in the foreseeable future, I waited for the entirety of the Witcher saga to be translated before reading.  As of 2017, all seven of Andrzej Sapkowski’s books have been translated, and I have spent the second quarter of 2018 reading all but the newly-released Season of Storms . Thus, I am able to produce reviews in case there are others interested in reading these excellent manuscripts.

Content Warning

Readers sensitive to mature content should approach the literary Witcher series with caution equitable to how one would approach the video games. Whereas The Chronicles of Narnia is written with children in mind, the target audience for the Witcher series is adults. As each book in the series is over 300 pages, I will leave certain details undisclosed both intentionally and unintentionally; an exhaustive catalog of all content worth mentioning in every novel would warrant this guide extending to a full-page alone! To supplement potential gaps, I recommend reading the content guides of our reviews of   The Witcher ,  The  Witcher 2 ,  and  The Witcher 3   for additional insight concerning the mature nature of this franchise.

“Tell that to Hereward. No, not Hereward. Tell that to his wife, the noble Ermellia, adding that if she wants to continue receiving an uninterrupted supply of aphrodisiacs from my pharmacy, she’d better calm her duke down. Let her curb his humors and whims, which look ever more like symptoms of idiocy. ” (84)

Sexuality : “…with a light but decisive movement of her hips…”  The Last Wish opens with a sex scene within its first four pages.   Therefore, expect sex to be a topic far removed from taboo. It is so frequent, in fact, that every story includes a reference to sexuality, including incest (9), rape (60), one-night stands (2, 120), virgins “popping cherries” (185), and some casual, likely post-coital, nudity (257).  

And as far as bed is concerned, well…Pox on it, virtue is rarer today than a rock dragon” (66).

Language and Crude Humor : To the credit of Sapkowski, the language in this book adapts according to the audience and speaker. This means that at a king’s court, one is admonished for using coarse language. But among commoners, uncouthness is the common tongue.  The full gamut of four-letter bombs can be experienced here, though they are placed strategically through the narrative so as to tread into excessive vulgarity. E uphemisms are also popular. For example, one character says that “I became a man,” to describe his first sexual encounter, which is a rape. “Pox on it,” as quoted above, is a popular curse from the Middle Ages. Alcohol and Drug Use : Beer in the world of the unnamed continent is more plentiful than water on earth. Verily, I found myself googling how harmful diuretics could be, wondering if characters would perish from dehydration, for no one seems interested in any other beverage, with the exception of one who demands juice.  Geralt himself consumes special elixirs to enhances his combat abilities. Though I would consider neither combat enhancers nor the ancient medicinal techniques practiced in the temple of Melitele a content concern , they are nevertheless worth mentioning here. Spirituality : The world of the Witcher acknowledges pagan influences. Prominent here is the cult of  Melitele  (41), where “The Voice of Reason” takes place.  Phrases such as “by the gods!” are popular . Note that when a character says “god d—n it!” they are not referencing any of the trinitarian godhead, but pagan ones. Earthly religions are completely absent here; fatalism, in fact, is more popular, peddled in the form of a “destiny” motif. Still, despite Geralt’s devout atheism, Sapkowski provides this dialogue as a punchline:

     “Don’t you think” — he smiled — “that my lack of faith makes such a trance pointless?” “No. I don’t. And do you know why?” “No.” Nenneke leaned over and looked him in the eyes with a strange smile on her pale lips. “Because it would be the first proof I’ve ever heard of that a lack of faith has any kind of power at all.” (44)

This text was written before “mic drops” became a thing.

Violence : Usually, violence is the first category in our content warnings here at GUG, but I am listing it here because though it is pervasive in the text, it is positioned as a necessity for survival rather than a means to an end—the natural end result of the character and plot mechanisms deployed up to that moment. Of course, this runs alongside Geralt’s vocation to slay monsters to make a living, he also acknowledges that some monsters are actually human (132).  Expect descriptions of disembowelment, decapitations, and the like during finales as this is an adventure series. In the event that the blood is spilled, it will come in the form of a flood.

Everyone agrees that the US covers of the Witcher saga suck, to put things plainly. Publishers thought it would be a good idea to generate hype for the literature by using imagery from the video games. For the GUG reviews, I will be using the artwork Alejandro Colucci curated for the editions published in the United Kingdom.

The Last Wish is the first of a long series of texts in the Witcher saga, a collection of seven short stories. The first, “The Voice of Reason,” functions as a Frame Story, whose chapters appear between each non-chronological short story as a lead-in. The first whole story, “The Witcher,” is the text that inspired the introductory cutscene to The Witcher video game. No other tale in the entire Witcher franchise is as cogent as this introduction of Geralt of Rivia as a deadly machine mutated via alchemy for the purpose of hunting monstrosities. As King Foltest accurately points out, he is capable of suppressing thuggery without lethal force (24), but he arguably does so as a demonstration of his lethal skill. Importantly, “The Witcher” reveals that Geralt is not invulnerable, and it is in fact, necessary that he heals faster than humans because frequent mortal injuries are an occupational hazard. 

“This talking has made me tired, Geralt. Briefly: there were two after Primula, Ilka, and Venimira. Everything happened in the same way, to the point of boredom. First, a mixture of fear and reserve, then a thread of sympathy they reinforced by small but precious gifts, then ‘Bite me, eat me up,’ Daddy’s return, a tender farewell and an increasingly discernible depletion of the treasury.” (65) 

The Last Wish returns to “The Voice of Reason” and Geralt during his stay at the Temple of Meli tele , where he recovers from his wounds from battling the striga in “The Witcher.” He debates with, or rather entertains a lecture from, head priestess Nenneke on the grounds that his lack of faith in anything is a weakness. This makes sense after reading “A Grain of Truth,” a story where Sapkowski showcases his mastery of hospitality, decorum, and good conversation, but not before exhibiting Geralt’s forensic skills which set him on the path to encounter a creature that is monstrous, but does not transgress his code as to what qualifies to be slain. This narrative reveals some limitations in Geralt’s abilities as a monster hunter and tops things off with a Disney-like ending.

X-Men fans will remember the Friends of Hu manity , and not for good reason. The Order of the White Rose is the Witcher saga’s equivalent, and two knights show up at the Temple of Melitele to give Geralt the boot from town in the next segment of “The Voice of Reason.” By this time, readers will have grown wise to the fact that Sapkowski likes to directly reference the titles to his stories; here Geralt explicitly requests that the knights listen to the voice of reason (83) and leave, but they only heed Nenneke’s threats. This frame story appropriately leads to “A Lesser Evil,” where Geralt is asked to choose between two evils: murder and murder. Geralt regretfully chooses murder; it is here where Geralt earns epic epithet, the Butcher of Blaviken, after where this story takes place.

“Evil is evil, Stregobor,” said the witcher seriously as he got up. “Lesser, greater, middling, it’s all the same. Proportions are negotiated, boundaries blurred. I am not a pious hermit. I haven’t done only good in my life. But if I’m to choose between one evil and another, then I prefer to not choose at all.” (104)

In the next “Voice of Reason” segment, Geralt decides to speak to Iola, the girl who seduces him in The Last Wish ’s introduction. While the entire book provides glimpses into Geralt and the lifestyle of a witcher, he lays things out plainly to the girl who has taken a vow of silence, particularly why he practices a code of neutrality in the matters of politics and everyday human life. This code is challenged in “A Question of Price,” the first short story in this collection that I found taxing to read. Admittedly, this might be attributed to the fact that the conflict here is resolved without violence even though Queen Calanthe of Cintra enlists Geralt as an enforcer to ensure that her daughter Pavetta chooses the correct suitor at a feast. Though this is my least favorite story in The Last Wish , it is arguably the most important in the entire Witcher saga, for it is here where Geralt evokes the Law of Surprise, where in six years he will return for a child who has yet to be born, setting in motion his perpetual struggle with destiny, a theme persistent all the way through even the Witcher games. I was only able to appreciate “A Question of Price” after several additional reads.

“I visited towns and fortresses. I looked for proclamations nailed to posts at the crossroads. I looked for the words ‘Witcher urgently needed.’ And then there’d be a sacred site, a dungeon, necropolis or ruins, forest ravine or grotto hidden in the mountains, full of bones and stinking carcasses. Some creature which lived to kill, out of hunger, for pleasure, or invoked by some sick will. A manticore, wyvern, fogler, aeschna, ilyocoris, chimera, leshy, vampire, ghoul, graveir, werewolf, giant scorpion, striga, black annis, kikimora, vypper…so many I’ve killed. There’d be a dance in the dark and a slash of the sword, and fear and distaste in the eyes of my employer afterward.” (133)

Sapkowski unleashes come comic relief through infamous poet and unfaltering  friend Dandelion in the next segment in the fifth chapter of “The Voice of Reason.” He appears coincidentally, as many encounters take place in the Witcher saga; here, however, Dandelion arrives to the chagrin of Nenneke, but to the delight of Geralt. Lifting the spirits of the latter, who had been wrestling with the existential crisis of being a sterile mutant who hunts monsters for a living where if there are fewer monsters, he has less work, and thus his existence becomes unnecessary if not terminal. They recall how they became friends, and traveled together to the Valley of Flowers, where “At the Edge of the World” takes place. In this misadventure, Geralt is recruited to discourage a trickster sylvan from dwelling near a hovel, but he and Dandelion end up in a situation where they suddenly find their very lives at the mercy of a certain race on the brink of extinction.

“Coodcoodak, on his knees, was strangling Draig BonDhu’s bagpipes with his hands, while, with his head thrown back, he shouted over the monstrous sounds emerging  from the bag, wailed and roared, cackled and croaked, bawled and squawked in a cacophony of sounds made by all known, unknown, domestic, wild, and mythical animals.” (171)

In the sixth chapter of “The Voice of Reason,” Geralt tries to leave the temple, but Nenneke calls his bluff and says that he need not try and avoid his lover, who had already visited earlier. She eventually asks how they met, which prompts the book’s titular short story, “The Last Wish.” This begins with another blunder where Dandelion and Geralt are fishing for lack of food and money—their everlasting poverty being a common theme. Rather than a fish, they catch a jar resembling an amphora, and within lives a djinn, who strikes down Dandelion and escapes after Geralt exclaims to it a certain “incantation.” Riding post-haste to the nearest town, Geralt demands to see the wizard living there so that he may heal his troubadour friend. The wizard turns out to be a sorceress named Yennefer of Vengerberg, who, after Geralt relays the story to her, formulates her own plans for the djinn. Things get out of hand, necessitating an unconventional solution, but one that will have a lasting impact throughout the Witcher saga.

“She leaned over him, touched him. He felt her hair, smelling of lilac and gooseberries, brush his face and he suddenly knew that he’d never forget that scent, that soft touch, knew that he’d never be able to compare it to any other scent or touch.” (306)

The Last Wish concludes with the seventh and final chapter of “A Voice of Reason.” As Geralt prepares to leave the temple, the knights of the Order of the White Rose await him, with the offended knight prepared for a duel. The caveat is that if Geralt defeats him, he will be arrested; if he refused the duel, he will be hanged. Well, this short story collection has by now taught the reader that conflict resolution in the Witcher series is often not what one will expect, and things are no different here. I will confess that The Last Wish is my second-favorite text in the Witcher saga, but important to potential readers is how it molds its world filled with towns, kings, and even metaphysical properties that the priest Neville reluctantly but pridefully denotes in The Last Wish . Sapkowski avoids overburdening the reader with his worldbuilding; he devotes a whole chapter to Cintra while barely mentioning is geographical position compared to other important places in the northern kingdoms such as Vizima, Temeria, or Skellige, but there is enough to establish that these are important places to keep in mind for later texts.

There are no throw-away characters to be found in this book. Fans of the video games will recall Dandelion and Yennefer, of course. But even the members of Shrike’s band in “The Lesser Evil” can be remembered for their joke about Geralt’s maternity. Characters who play bigger roles, such as Neville or Nivellen, contribute substantially in ways that one will be able to recall for years. The parallel Sapkowski draws between the Aen Seidhe and Native Americans could hardly be more poignant.

I wish to remain objective in all media I consume—digital, or in this case, hard copy. However, it is nigh impossible to not descend completely into “fanboy mode” over this outstanding collection of short stories. Mark my words: by the time the  Witcher series on HBO is done filming, Sapkowski will be a household name like C. S. Lewis, J. R. R. Tolkien, or George R. R. Martin, and J. K. Rowling. The shows (plural because The Hexer was once a thing), the games, and everything else, however, all begins here with The Last Wish .

Stay tuned for further reviews of our adventures with Geralt of Rivia.

[amazon template=iframe image&asin=0316029181]

The Bottom Line

Maurice Pogue

I’m wondering how you reconcile the sexual aspect of this book with your faith. Doesn’t reading it cause you to think sinful thoughts? In the games you can just skip over the nudity and don’t have easy access to it, with a book it’s always there. Just wanted to know how you’re able to read it as a Christian.

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The witcher: 10 differences between the netflix show & the books.

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How Liam Hemsworth's Geralt Look Compares To Henry Cavill In The Witcher Season 4

Henry cavill should appear in 1 more episode of the witcher (even if it's not as geralt), if this is henry cavill’s geralt replacement, i’m happy he left the witcher.

It would seem that  The Witcher   series has become the latest literary series to get the franchise treatment. Spanning multiple books and short stories, three critically acclaimed video games, and now a hit Netflix series ,  The Witcher  is poised to become the next fantasy phenomenon . Just in time to fill the  Game of Thrones  shaped hole in viewers' hearts.

RELATED: The Witcher: D&D Moral Alignments Of Main Characters

As fans, new and old, dive in, they'll naturally begin to examine the similarities and differences between all the adaptations of the story. Here are ten ways that  The Witcher  show differs from the book. Toss a coin to your Witcher , and let's get started.

Eyck Of Denesle

Most viewers will probably remember this guy as the worst part of the episode  Rare Species.  He is arrogant, incompetent, and needlessly cruel; killing a creature that posed no threat to him just to try and look tough. When he ends up with his throat slit while relieving himself, not many people had much sympathy.

In the books, Eyck is pretty much the opposite of his character in the show. While still not a very nice person, he is shown to be a highly skilled hunter of monsters. He even bravely volunteers to fight the Golden Dragon, losing, but gaining the beasts respect.

The Reavers

Speaking of people who aren't very nice, let's talk about the band of mercenaries known as The Reavers from the same episode. These boys are good at killing dragons and sexual harassment. Their leader Boholt in particular verbally harasses Yennefer. Eventually, they push their luck past its breaking point and are killed in battle against Yen and Geralt.

In the books, they manage to go from bad to worse. At one point they knock out Yen, tie her up, and Boholt sexually assaults her. He and his men go on to loudly announce their plans to violate her, but she frees herself before they can. While Boholt and gang are still jerks in the show, they don't cross the line into sexual assault.

Yennefer's Past

As one of the show's main characters, Yennefer gets a fair amount of screentime dedicated to her backstory. We see her go from an abused orphan to one of the most powerful members of The Brotherhood Of Sorcerers. This takes up much of the first few episodes, so fans might be surprised to learn that much of this isn't shown in the books.

RELATED: The Witcher: 10 Things You Didn't Know About The Nilfgaardian Empire

Yen's past is mostly hinted at in the books. By the time we meet her in the books, she's already a sorceress with a tumultuous history with Geralt.

The Sorceress Ritual

In the show, we learn that before a sorceress is sent off to court, her body is changed through a magic ritual. Even a deformed hunchback can be transformed into a stunning beauty. But this transformation comes at a gruesome cost; namely the surgical removal of the woman's uterus.

The book version of this is not quite as graphic. While sorceresses are infertile, it is not because they have been physically sterilized. Why the show felt the need to include such a brutal change to the source material is unknown, but it does make for a harrowing watch.

Geralt And Yennefer

The Netflix adaption has the titular Witcher and the sorceress meet fairly late into the first season after Jaskier is badly injured. In the books, the two have met several times previously before their first onscreen meeting. They have in fact carried on a tempestuous romance with each other; coming together and breaking up in notoriously messy fights.

In the show, the pair only meet onscreen twice, though they seem to be keeping up the tradition of hooking up only to split up again by episodes end. Maybe they'll have better luck in the next season.

Triss Merigold

Fans of the video games were no doubt delighted when the auburn-haired sorceress showed up in the third episode. She is, after all, a prominent part of those games plots. But those only familiar with the books might have been somewhat surprised to see her show up so early.

RELATED: The Witcher: 10 Things You Didn't Know About Geralt's Body

In the books, Triss is mentioned only as Yennefer's good friend until she is introduced in the third book. The show has her meeting Geralt long before Yen does. This is probably owed to the character's popularity in the games.

Queen Calanthe

The Lioness of Cintra, Queen Calanthe is the kind who leads from the front; unafraid to kick ass and take names. When Nilfgaard comes rocking up to her borders, she immediately leaps into action to try and stop them. Even in defeat, she still makes sure that her granddaughter Ciri escapes the city before it falls.

But while mostly noble, the show version of Calanthe is a bit more ruthless than her book counterpoint. She ordered a purge of anyone with elvish blood in her kingdom. In the books, she not only doesn't do this but is actually of elvish blood herself.

Tissaia De Vries

Yennefer's mentor in The Brotherhood of Sorcerers, and the one who plucked her from a miserable life of abuse to shape her into a powerful sorceress. While she does care for her students, she is also a cold and calculating politician. But this is exclusive to the television show.

In the books, De Vries despises politics and has nothing but scorn for the political games the other sorcerers play. She is also one of the nicest characters in the series. Very little of her book counterparts personality was given to her show counterpart it seems.

In the Netflix show, Vilgefortz is one of the few members of The Brotherhood of Sorcerers to realize the grave threat posed by Nilfgaard. Along with a handful of others, he participates in the defense of Sodden Hill. During the battle, he engages Cahir in battle but is ultimately defeated.

The books show Vilgefortz as far more of a force to be reckoned with than his Netflix counterpart. He is said to have acquitted himself well in the Battle of Sodden Hill and can match a Witcher in melee combat. Given that the show is still young, it's possible that he could become more formidable later.

Sodden Hill

The Battle of Sodden Hill is a turning point in the history of  The Witcher's  universe. It's the decisive victory that ends Nilfgaard's first invasion of the Northern Realms. The battle gets an entire episode dedicated to it in the television series and seems to end on a cliffhanger.

Which is a definite change from the books, where the battle is never shown? It is still held as a tremendously important event, and we hear of the mages' noble deeds, but never see them firsthand.

NEXT: Netflix's The Witcher: 10 Best Quotes On The Show

• The Witcher

The Witcher books: a beginner's guide to the Netflix series' source material

Here's everything you need to know about Andrzej Sapkowski's Witcher novels

Where to start

• Reading order
• Graphic novels
• Background info

How do The Witcher games tie in?

Should you play the witcher games.

The Witcher books have been all the rage for a while now. Andrezj Sapkowski's novels created a phenomenon and an empire that stretches from the critically acclaimed video games to the beloved series on Netflix starring Henry Cavill as Geralt.

If you're working your way towards the books, you might be a little stuck on where to go first. There are multiple full-fat novels, plus some short stories to take in. What's essential? What isn't? Below, we'll put your mind at rest: we've put together the order of The Witcher books, acting as a beginner's guide for those looking to dip their toes into literary waters on the Continent. That's especially important, especially considering how The Witcher season 3 looks set to adapt Time of Contempt very soon.

Warning: there will be some light spoilers for The Witcher books and Netflix series below.

Where to start with The Witcher books

You'll want to start with The Last Wish , a collection of short stories that helps establish the fantasy universe. You learn about Geralt's silver sword (that's for monsters), sexual prowess (that's for everybody), and the rampant corruption that takes place amongst the Continent's governments.  

You'll also meet some characters who feature in the Netflix series, including Dandelion the bard (renamed Jaskier in the show), the sorceress (and Geralt's sometimes lover) Yennefer of Vengerberg, and Pavetta, the mother of the most important young woman in Geralt's life, Ciri. 

Many of the stories in The Last Wish have been adapted into the Netflix series, which will give you a neat bit of context on your first viewing (or third re-watch in my case). There are mentions of other key players from the series (like Triss Merigold), but only in passing. You'll also get a better understanding of the warring factions and dirty politics of the Continent, which can get quite confusing if you only consume the show or the game. 

You'll definitely have to go for the Sword of Destiny here to get Ciri's storyline and introduction into the series done properly and early on.

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The Witcher books reading order

• The Last Wish
• Sword of Destiny
• Blood of Elves
• Time of Contempt
• Baptism of Fire
• The Tower of Swallows
• The Lady of the Lake

The Last Wish and Sword of Destiny are both collections of short stories told in The Witcher universe, while Blood of Elves onwards are all full-length novels. Sword of Destiny sets up Geralt's bond with young Ciri quite nicely and is one of the books, along with The Last Wish, that has had the most excised from it for the sake of the Netflix series. Blood of Elves introduces us to Triss Merigold for the first time, another sorceress and third point on the Geralt/Yen love triangle. He's got a thing for magic women, huh? And Lady of the Lake is the end of Geralt's story.

There is another book called Season of Storms (first published in 2013), which takes place during the same time period as The Last Wish. There's nothing in the novel that drastically changes any of the characters or storylines, but if you're a completionist you'll want to grab it. It tees up some nice payoffs that happen in later novels. 

The Witcher books - Graphic novels

Witcher books exist beyond the novels, however, too. There's a series of graphic novels which do a great job of complementing the witcher books while simultaneously offering a different kind of witcher book scratch for that itch. 

They aren't written by Sapkowski, but they have been very well received, and look spectacular with a great art style. Volume 1 , Volume 2 , Volume 3 , Volume 4 , and the upcoming Volume 5 , all include several stories each, while the collated Library Edition or Omnibus Edition pack the first three into one to give you a bunch in one hit.

There's also a Witcher 3 Wild Hunt art book which is very rare, but also a World of the Witcher compendium book which is great for lore, background info, and history. Both of these are easily good enough to qualify as some of the best video game art books .

The Witcher books - beginner's guide

The world of Geralt of Rivia first debuted in Polish science fiction and fantasy magazine Fantastyka in 1986, when author Andrzej Sapkowski won third place in a new talent contest with his short story simply titled "The Witcher". 

To keep it short and sweet (like most of Henry Cavill's dialogue in the Netflix series), Sapkowski's story introduces us to a witcher – AKA someone who is taken from their parents when they are a child, trained rather brutally, and given special abilities through mutations to help battle monsters, which they do for freelance work. That must be a fun invoice.

The books introduce us to the Continent, a land settled by elves but initially home to gnomes and dwarves. War breaks out between the native people and the elves, ending in a semi-truce that basically means they agree to live in separate areas (think Christopher Columbus but fantasy). At some point, a supernatural event known as the Conjuring of Spheres takes place – rifts between realms open up, trapping a litany of dangerous creatures (like ghouls, werewolves, and vampires) on the Continent. Humans come shortly after this cataclysmic event, setting off a long series of bloody wars. Mankind wins and establishes a social hierarchy in which non-human races are deemed inferior. Eeeesh.

The Witcher books make it clear that the relationship between these varying races is tenuous at best; bloody at worst (and most often). The saga begins amongst the aftermath of the first major war between the Northern Kingdoms and the Nilfgaard Empire, the latter of which has taken over much of the Continent's southern lands.  

Both The Witcher Netflix series and The Witcher game series can be considered different adaptations of the same source material, but it's interesting to see how the show plays off of both pieces of media that came before it. 

For instance, the Geralt of Rivia from Sapkowski's novels is skinny, brooding, and often down on his luck, initially struggling to make ends meet between witcher contracts. He enjoys the odd philosophical rant or two. Geralt of Rivia from the games is quite buff, witty, and – if you do enough side quests – has a fair bit of coin. He also has facial hair (but only in the third game), which Geralt of the novels hates. 

Geralt in The Witcher Netflix series is an amalgamation of the two – clearly Henry Cavill is an absolute unit, but in the very first episode he's struggling to find work; a young girl mentions the kikimora he's killed could fetch him enough money to "buy new clothes." He's also clean-shaven.

The game series is considered a non-canonical quasi-sequel to the Witcher books, but CD Projekt Red pulls from Sapkowski's source material in a manner the author has "expressed happiness" about, according to The Washington Post . Geralt suffers from amnesia in the first two games, as a means of introducing newcomers to the world of The Witcher while also moving Geralt's story forward. That's likely why Sapkowski has made it clear that these are not canon sequels or a true continuation of his stories, telling Eurogamer back in 2012: "The game – with all due respect to it, but let's finally say it openly – is not an 'alternative version', nor a sequel. The game is a free adaptation containing elements of my work; an adaptation created by different authors." 

The short answer: yes. There's a reason Witcher 3 was named one of our best games of the decade ...

The longer answer: you could arguably skip both 2007's The Witcher and 2011's The Witcher 2: Assassin of Kings, if you're short on time.

The first game, released on PC and Mac, was certainly an important milestone in the history of gaming but doesn't hold up particularly well. The dialogue is wooden (please watch this ), and the misogyny is real, offering you the chance to sleep with women in exchange for trading cards. The graphics also leave several things to be desired – as Kotaku's Ethan Gach writes : "Geralt has a horse face." 

The Witcher 2: Assassin of Kings is a marked improvement, and it's available on Xbox 360 and PC. There's more politics, fewer monsters, and a linear narrative greatly affected by in-game decisions. However, the combat system is just not fun. 

A convenient recovery from amnesia leads into the events of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, the only game you need to play if the Netflix series has got you jonesing for more Geralt. It technically picks up after The Lady of the Lake novel (though is, again, non-canonically), and has a main quest that's gripping and dire. You can also enjoy a ton of side quests that feel like stand-alone episodes from the show, or short stories from Sapkowski himself. Depending upon the difficulty settings, it'll satisfy both RPG newcomers and hardcore players alike.

Important to note : Yennefer and Ciri are only in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. There are references to Yen in Assassins of Kings, but Triss Merigold is Geralt's lover in the first two games, as his amnesia has erased his time with Yen.

And with that, hopefully you have a fairly good understanding of The Witcher books. The series really has become an all-encompassing phenomenon that can be enjoyed in so many ways – on the page, the screen, or in games – and each version is similarly fleshed out and wacky and gory.

Which Witcher is the best Witcher? The books are the original sacred texts, the games are endlessly entertaining, and the series is a beautifully modern take with a heavy (and necessary) dose of feminism and racial equality. We highly recommend tossing a coin to them all.

Alyssa Mercante is an editor and features writer at GamesRadar based out of Brooklyn, NY. Prior to entering the industry, she got her Masters's degree in Modern and Contemporary Literature at Newcastle University with a dissertation focusing on contemporary indie games. She spends most of her time playing competitive shooters and in-depth RPGs and was recently on a PAX Panel about the best bars in video games. In her spare time Alyssa rescues cats, practices her Italian, and plays soccer.

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Your Ultimate Guide To The Witcher Comics

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Starting as a series of fantasy novels by Polish writer Andrzej Sapkowski ,  The Witcher  has gone on to become a massive international franchise. The video games have sold millions of copies, and Netflix has created a  popular series  out of it. But did you know that there are comics too?

Published by  Dark Horse Comics , these tell new stories starring Geralt, set in the world of the video game series. They’re great for readers who want to revisit the franchise again while they  wait for the new game to arrive .

Read on to find out all about The Witcher comics, including what stories are available to read, where you can find them, and much more.

Table of Contents

• Are the comics based off the books, video games, or Netflix series?

Where can I find the The Witcher comics and graphic novels?

How do i know if i will like the witcher comics, the witcher comics list, library editions, omnibus editions, are the comics based on the books, video games, or netflix series.

Most of The Witcher comics are based on the video game adaptation.

The comics based on the video game interpretation are well aligned and there is a lot of contact with the CD ProjektRed to make sure things are accurate. Some of the later stories are even scripted by writers of the video game franchise.

At the same time, some elements are borrowed directly from the novels. A great example of this is the Fox Children miniseries, which is inspired by a chapter from the novel Season of Storms . Further to this, Dark Horse Comics has begun to adapt some of the Andrzej Sapkowski’s short stories as graphic novellas.

The Witcher comics can be found at all good comic book stores , online stores , eBay , and digitally on Kindle and Dark Horse Digital .

Not sure if you will like the comics? Dark Horse has put together a free sampler that can check out. It has extended preview pages of the first two miniseries and will give you a good taste of what they’re all about.

Over the years, Dark Horse Comics has released many The Witcher miniseries. Each is a self-contained story so you can read them in any order that you like. Take a look below to find out more about each of them.

House of Glass

Written by Paul Tobin. Art by Joe Querio and Carlos Badilla.

Issues: The Witcher: House of Glass #1-5 Collected Edition: The Witcher Volume 1: House of Glass*

In this first series of The Witcher comics, Geralt enters an eerie mansion in the Brokilon forest. But this is no ordinary mansion, the House of Glass has endless room and is filled with all kinds of terrifying monsters.

Read a preview of The Witcher #1 .

Buy: eBay | Amazon/Kindle

* The Witcher Volume 1: House of Glass is out of print and can be hard to find. Dark Horse have reprinted the contents of this miniseries in Library and Omnibus editions. Find out more about those towards the bottom of the page.

Fox Children

Issues: The Witcher: Fox Children #1-5 Collected Edition: The Witcher Volume 2: Fox Children**

As part of his travels, Geralt find him on a ship that full of criminals and other questionable people. But that will all pail in comparison when he discovers that there is also another passenger that’s far more monsterous.

This is only comic to be based on material originating from the novels, with it being inspired by a chapter from Season of Storms.

** The Witcher Volume 2: Fox Children is out of print and can be hard to find. Dark Horse have reprinted the contents of this miniseries in Library and Omnibus editions. Find out more about those towards the bottom of the page.

Curse of Crows

Written by Paul Tobin. Art by Piotr Kowalski and Brad Simpson.

Issues: The Witcher: Curse of Crows #1-5 Collected Edition: The Witcher Volume 3: Curse of Crows***

This miniseries is a tale of revenge that stars Geralt and Ciri.

*** The Witcher Volume 3: Curse of Crows is out of print and can be hard to find. Dark Horse have reprinted the contents of this miniseries in Library and Omnibus editions. Find out more about those towards the bottom of the page.

Of Flesh and Flame

Written by Aleksandra Motyka. Art by Marianna Stychowska.

Issues: The Witcher: Curse of Crows #1-4 Collected Edition: The Witcher Volume 4: Of Flesh and Flame

Geralt finds himself in a strange land when he tries to help an old friend. The region is plagued by dark forces, but by defeating them he ends up in more trouble than what he started in.

Aleksandra Motyka was a writer on The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and the Blood and Win DLC.

Fading Memories

Written by Bartosz Sztybor. Art by Amad Mir and Hamid Sheykh.

Issues: The Witcher: Fading Memories #1-4 Collected Edition: The Witcher Volume 5: Fading Memories

Monsters have disappeared and Geralt is forced to find a new occupation in order to make ends meet. But his expertise of his will come in handy when it is found that something is taking children at his new place of work…

Witch’s Lament

Written by Bartosz Sztybor. Art by Vanesa R. Del Rey.

Issues: The Witcher: Witch’s Lament #1-4 Collected Edition: The Witcher Volume 6: Witch’s Lament

Geralt has been hired by a wealthy landlord to find his missing daughter, who is suspected to have been taken by witches. At the same time our hero has been plagued with nightmares of a witch who has been giving him an ominous warning.

The Ballad of the Two Wolves

Written by Bartosz Sztybor. Art by Miki Montlló.

Issues: The Witcher: The Ballad of the Two Wolves #1-4 Collected Edition: The Witcher Volume 7: The Ballad of the Two Wolves

Geralt is brought to the town of Grimmwald. It was one a poverty stricken town but has become a tourist destination thanks to three wealthy sisters. However, the fear of change and a werewolf threaten to tear the town apart.

Wild Animals

Written by Bartosz Sztybor. Art by Nataliia Rerekina.

Issues: The Witcher: Wild Animals #1-4 Collected Edition: The Witcher Volume 7: Wild Animals [23rd July]

After a job at sea goes bad, Geralt is washes up onto a stange and unfamiliar land. Here, the local hunters are in a conflict with a clan who hunt humans.

Corvo Bianco

Written by Bartosz Sztybor. Art by Corrado Mastantuono.

Issues: The Witcher: Corvo Bianco #1-5 Collected Edition: TBC

Geralt gains a taste of the good life – without the responsibility – with Yennefer by his side. However, that all comes crashing down.

This miniseries will feature the first English-language work of Italian artist Corrado Mastantuono .

The Witcher: Corvo Bianco begins on 8th May and will be published monthly.

Andrzej Sapkowski’s The Witcher: Grain of Truth

Written by Andrzej Sapkowski and Jacek Rembis. Art by Jonas Scharf.

This is a hardcover graphic novella adaptation of Andrzej Sapkowski’s short story of the same name.

Andrzej Sapkowski’s The Witcher: The Lesser Evil

Written by Andrzej Sapkowski and Jacek Rembis. Art by Adam Gorham and Jordie Bellaire.

This is the second adaptation of one of Andrzej Sapkowski’s Witcher short stories . The Lesser Evil follows the same format as Grain of Truth .

This will be released on 25th July, 2023.

The Witcher: Ronin

Written by Rafal Jaki. Art by Hataya.

Originally a Kickstarter run by CD Projeck Red , Ronin is a manga graphic novel which combines The Witcher with Japanese folklore. It sees Geralt face a range of sinister yokai and oni during Edo-period Japan.

The original Kickstarter edition was in hardcover but Dark Horse has released a softcover edition for general release.

Killing Monsters

Written by Paul Tobin. Art by Max Bertolini.

Killing Monsters was a minicomic that was available in some regions as a pre-order incentive for The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt . It was later package with the Blood and Wine expansion. It has been since collected in The Witcher Library Edition Volume 1 and The Witcher Omnibus Volume 1 .

Reasons of State and Matters of Conscience

Written by Michał Gałek. Art by Arkadiusz Klimek.

Unlike the comics listed above, these ones are not published by Dark Horse. Instead, they come packaged with particular purchases on GOG.com or Steam. The Witcher: Reasons of State comes with The Witcher 2 and Matter of Conscience is a bonus with The Witcher 3: Hearts of Stone DLC.

Once there is enough material, Dark Horse Comics will package their comics up into limited run Library Editions. These are oversized hardcovers (in size and page count) that collect the equivalent of three trade paperback collections in one package. They often come with a bunch of extra material too. Find out about the available Library Editions for The Witcher below.

The Witcher Library Edition Volume 1 Collects: The Witcher: House of Glass #1-5, The Witcher: Fox Children #1-5, The Witcher: Curse of Crows #1-5, and The Witcher: Killing Monsters Buy: eBay

The Witcher Library Edition Volume 1 also comes with a bunch of bonus content including art by Dave Johnson (100 Bullets), Dan Panosian (Slots), Stan Sakai (Usagi Yojimbo), Duncan Fegredo (MPH), and Simon Bisley (Lobo).

The Witcher Library Edition Volume 2 Collects: The Witcher: Of Flesh and Flame #1-#4, The Witcher: Fading Memories #1-#4, The Witcher: Witch’s Lament #1-#4, and the Free Comic Book Day 2021 short story “The Witcher: Once Upon a Time in the Woods”

After a few years, Dark Horse Comics will phase out a trade paperback collection of a series in favour for the more cost effective omnibus editions. These have the contents of the Library Editions but are cheaper than buying the trade paperbacks editions separately.

The Witcher Omnibus Volume 1 Collects: The Witcher: House of Glass #1-5, The Witcher: Fox Children #1-5, The Witcher: Curse of Crows #1-5, and The Witcher: Killing Monsters Buy: eBay | Amazon/Kindle

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Book Review: The Witcher - an engaging fantasy series

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Andrzej Sapkowski’s The Witcher series is coming to Netflix starring Henry Cavill as Geralt of Rivia, so now is the time to get caught up with the books.

The Witcher’s world is a collision of ancient European history and a fantasy world filled with monsters and magic. Literally so, humans have somehow crossed into the magical world and have to contend with beasts and magic all rooted in eastern European myth.  Our hero, Geralt of Rivia, is the product of this collision.  A ritual performed on select young men mutates them and gives them special magical abilities.  These men are called “witchers”, and their job is to battle creatures and protect those who need protecting, but only if they can pay.  They are a sort of mercenaries, shunned and reviled by the same communities that hire them for protection, a sort of necessary evil.

Blood of Elves  is the first full-length novel and comes after the lead character, Geralt of Rivia, has already been established in a previous series of short stories. Those stories are a great setup for an epic like Game of Thrones, but really reveals itself to be a much smaller and more personal story. This isn’t an action story despite being filled with magic and grand conflicts. The appeal really lies in the characters themselves. Geralt is a pragmatic man, a mercenary who tries not to get too involved in other people’s trouble.  Ciri is young girl stuggling to cope with a life thrown into chaos when her parents are killed and falls into the care of an unprepared Geralt.  She’s young but shows potential to be a major disruptive force, both magically and politically. 

Blood of Elves  has two action scenes in its 400-page run.  Everything else is conversation.  The writing, the characters, and the translation all make it worth while.  This is a deep, complicated world, but its story is told by the individuals and the setting as much as any action that does or doesn’t happen in it.   

Andrzej Sapkowski’s Witcher series was well-established in his native Poland when a Polish video game company created a game to follow up on the novels.  The game’s popularity propelled the series to great heights with 2015’s The Witcher 3, a gaming masterpiece.  But make no mistake, the books came first and deserve their acclaim in their own right. 

Steven McCreedy is a library technician at the Cambie Branch of the Richmond Public Library

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Review: ‘The Witcher,’ a Netflix Heavy Hitter, Finally Returns

Still ranking in the service’s Top 5 in viewership, the medieval fantasy is back for a second season after a two-year hiatus.

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By Mike Hale

Before “Squid Game,” before “Bridgerton,” there was “The Witcher.”

In late 2019, it was by some measures the most popular television show in the world, and it was Netflix’s second most-viewed TV debut to that point. Then Covid-19 set in, and two years passed without more “Witcher.” A few shows, notably “Squid Game,” overtook it in the all-time Netflix rankings. But Season 1 of “The Witcher” is still hanging in there , comfortably in fifth place.

That’s impressive, and a little surprising, for a “Game of Thrones”-on-a-budget sword-and-sorcery adventure whose visual and dramatic quality ranged from “hey, not bad” to “[helpless giggle].” Maybe it was a testament to the popularity of the source material, a cycle of stories and novels by the Polish writer Andrzej Sapkowski that has also inspired a successful video-game franchise. Maybe the audience for sprawling medieval fantasy, even when it’s medium grade, is simply that large.

Or maybe people were just drawn in by the show’s charms, of which it had several: a playful sense of humor (an area in which it scored quite a bit higher than “Game of Thrones”); a refreshingly straightforward episodic structure; and an amusing, minimalist performance by Henry Cavill as the witcher, Geralt, a mutant mercenary charged with hunting down all manner of C.G.I. beasts.

Now the show’s pandemic-delayed second season is here, premiering Friday on Netflix, and based on six of the eight episodes, a lot of what made the series charming has been set aside. But that may not stop it from racking up equally impressive viewership numbers this time around.

Picking up in the wake of the scorched-earth battle between kingdoms that ended Season 1, the show takes Geralt away from peripatetic monster-slaying for hire and puts him on a narrower path, as bodyguard and teacher to Ciri (Freya Allan), the refugee princess with mysterious powers. The third major character, the mage Yennefer (Anya Chalotra), has lost her magic and is also on the run. Jaskier (Joey Batey), the traveling bard — the 13th century’s version of a fabulous cabaret star — who was responsible for much of the sniping humor is offstage in the early episodes.

It feels as if, after the good times of Season 1, the series’s creator and showrunner, Lauren Schmidt Hissrich, decided it was time to get serious — to start incorporating more of the elaborate mythology and terminology of Sapkowski’s books.

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All things related to The Witcher - books, games, TV... You name it. The Witcher is a critically acclaimed fantasy book series created by Andrzej Sapkowski. The series follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter in a universe where people often prove more wicked than beasts. Though originally written in Polish, the franchise gathered a large international following from likewise acclaimed game adaptions by CD Projekt. The books now translated into a dozen languages have also been adapted for TV.

More good content besides the books and games?

Can anyone recommend some more good witcher related content besides the books and the games? I've played the games (all fantastic) read the books afterwards (loved the lore, setting and style of writing) and I have some of the unofficial comics (liked those too).

Is there any other content that feels faithful to the witcher world and you enjoyed?

I watched the Netflix adaptation so please don't mention that, I really hated it (except Gerald and Dandelion) because I didn't feel the creators had ANY idea what made the witcher world special.

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The Witcher Books (2-7)

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