The Witcher series by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski has exploded in popularity in recent years. This is thanks to the hugely successful video games by CD Projekt Red, as well as the hit Netflix show starring Henry Cavill. The Witcher books follow the monster hunter Geralt of Rivia in a dark fantasy world. The series consists of two short story collections, The Last Wish and Sword of Destiny, which establish the characters and lore. These are followed by the five novels of The Witcher Saga, which form an overarching epic narrative. The Netflix adaptation closely follows events and characters from the novels. With the games and show bringing The Witcher to a wider audience, interest in Sapkowski’s original novels has surged. Here is a look at the books that started it all in order of publication and chronology.
The Last Wish (1993)
The Last Wish is the first book in The Witcher series by Polish writer Andrzej Sapkowski. It is a collection of short stories loosely connected by a frame story. The stories introduce the character of Geralt of Rivia, a witcher – a monster hunter who has been enhanced by mutations and trained since childhood. Geralt battles various beasts and supernatural foes while navigating the complex politics of the world. Important characters like the powerful sorceress Yennefer and the princess Ciri appear. The stories explore themes of morality and what defines a monster, while delivering exciting action scenes as Geralt uses his signature swordsmanship and magic. Sapkowski combines traditional fairy tale elements with a dark, gritty tone. The Last Wish shows Geralt’s origins and establishes him as a compelling and nuanced protagonist.
Sword of Destiny (1992)
Sword of Destiny is the second book in The Witcher series, though it was published before The Last Wish. It consists of short stories that continue to develop the character of Geralt leading up to his eventual meeting with Ciri. Geralt battles monsters and men alike with his characteristic cynicism and ruthlessness, but also displays empathy and principles. Ciri’s parents appear and her background as a prophesied savior begins to emerge. Their eventual fateful encounter builds anticipation for future novels. Sapkowski’s poetic writing style shines in these early adventures of Geralt. We get witty dialogue, imaginative action, and impactful drama. Sword of Destiny expands the lore of The Witcher world while showcasing Geralt as a fierce warrior with unexpected softness.
Blood of Elves (1994)
Blood of Elves is the first novel in The Witcher Saga following the short story collections. It begins Ciri’s story as she comes into her powers and destiny under the tutelage of Geralt and the sorceress Yennefer at the witcher fortress of Kaer Morhen. A mysterious force wants to capture Ciri for her magical Elder Blood. Political turmoil also brews, with growing hatred towards non-humans threatening the land Ciri is destined to rule. Blood of Elves explores Ciri’s complex family history and background in more depth. It also expands The Continent with new cities, races, and magical lore. Vivid characters like the druid Mousesack and the troubadour Dandelion appear. Sapkowski builds tension around Ciri’s fate and the looming war. Blood of Elves starts The Witcher Saga off with high stakes and emotional depth.
Time of Contempt (1995)
Time of Contempt picks up where Blood of Elves left off. Ciri continues training her magical abilities at an academy for sorcerers. Political tensions escalate, leading to the summit where kings and mages gather. Geralt reunites with Ciri and Yennefer but must navigating increasingly complex schemes. Action intensifies as several factions target Ciri, culminating in an explosive battle on a misty island. Sapkowski expands the scope as characters travel to new exotic locales. Themes of xenophobia and corruption in politics add depth. Ciri comes into her own as a defiant young woman despite the forces trying to control her. Time of Contempt balances its epic fantasy narrative with intimate character drama. With humor, horror, and heart, it further develops Geralt, Yennefer, and Ciri while hurtling the saga forward.
Baptism of Fire (1996)
Baptism of Fire continues The Witcher Saga in the aftermath of the events in Time of Contempt. Geralt assembles a new motley crew including the poet Dandelion, the dwarf Zoltan, and others as he journeys to find and rescue Ciri. His path crosses perilous terrain and dangerous beasts, testing him to his limits. Meanwhile Ciri ends up with a mysterious group called The Rats who rob the rich. The horrors of war ravage the land, bringing starvation and disease. Baptism of Fire sees characters shift and grow amidst the raging conflict. Geralt’s loyalty and determination drive him onward despite grave losses. Ciri’s inner strength emerges as she survives her own ordeals. With offbeat humor and rich historical detail, Baptism of Fire depicts the grim realities of war through beloved characters.
The Tower of the Swallow (1997)
In The Tower of the Swallow, the saga continues with Ciri and Geralt separated but facing their own dark paths. Ciri becomes entangled with the cunning elf Avallac’h as she jumps through space and time, haunted by the mysterious Rider who hunts her. Geralt quests across a war-torn kingdom stalked by the brutal fanatic Leo Bonhart. The two storylines slowly converge for a future reunion. Tower of the Swallow alternates between their bloody journeys. Supporting characters like the sorceress Philippa Eilhart have larger roles. Sapkowski casts light on the backstory of the multidimensional Avallac’h while crafting creative action setpieces. Tower of the Swallow builds towards the saga’s climax with higher stakes, richer world-building, and cinematic flair.
The Lady of the Lake (1999)
The Lady of the Lake concludes Geralt and Ciri’s connected destinies amidst an epic final confrontation between good and evil. Their paths finally intersect, leading to a massive wild hunt invasion threatening the land. Emotional reunions occur alongside devastating heartbreaks. Long brewing mysteries and prophecies come to a head. Supporting characters unite for an apocalyptic last stand that will determine the future. Sapkowski ties up story arcs while delivering blockbuster battle scenes. The Lady of the Lake features some of the most spectacular moments in The Witcher Saga, satisfyingly capping off the series. With its imaginative epic fantasy ordeals and touching character resolutions, The Lady of the Lake delivers a powerful, poignant finale.
Conclusion
Andrzej Sapkowski’s Witcher books make up one of fantasy’s most beloved series, engaging legions of fans across books, games, and Netflix. The saga delivers epic adventures with Geralt of Rivia in a gritty, monster-filled medieval world. From the short stories that introduce beloved characters to the epic showdown of the novels, Sapkowski’s storytelling mastery shines through. The books have action, romance, vivid settings, moral dilemmas, and emotional depth. It’s no wonder they have spawned such hugely successful spin-off media. For both longtime fans and those discovering The Witcher through the show, Sapkowski’s novels are enthralling, essential fantasy reading. The popularity of Geralt of Rivia and his world continues to grow, but it all started with these wonderful Witcher books.
