“The Witcher” series, written by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski, is a renowned collection of fantasy novels and short stories, celebrated for its rich storytelling, complex characters, and intricate world-building.
The series has gained international acclaim, further popularized by video games and a Netflix adaptation, becoming a significant work in modern fantasy literature.
The saga revolves around the protagonist, Geralt of Rivia, known as a ‘Witcher’ – a magically enhanced and trained individual who hunts monsters for a living. Geralt’s character is marked by his moral ambiguity, depth, and the existential struggles he faces in a world where humans can often be more monstrous than the creatures he hunts.
The series begins with two short story collections, “The Last Wish” and “Sword of Destiny,” which introduce Geralt and the rich, Slavic-mythology-inspired world he inhabits. These stories lay the groundwork for the character’s complexities and the series’ primary themes, including destiny, the nature of good and evil, and the political machinations within the series’ fantasy setting.
Following the short stories, the saga continues with the five main novels, starting with “Blood of Elves.” These books delve deeper into the saga’s lore and expand on the relationships and conflicts introduced in the earlier stories. Central to the narrative is the character of Ciri, a princess with a mysterious and powerful destiny, whose path becomes inextricably linked with Geralt’s.
Sapkowski’s writing is notable for its rich descriptions, sophisticated narrative structure, and the way it subverts traditional fantasy tropes. The world of “The Witcher” is morally grey and complex, filled with diverse cultures, political intrigue, and a deep sense of history and folklore.
The series has been praised for its exploration of philosophical and ethical questions, making it a thought-provoking read beyond its action-packed surface. Sapkowski creates a narrative that is as much about the internal struggles of its characters as it is about their external adventures.
“The Witcher” series has not only been a success in its written form but has also achieved remarkable popularity through its adaptations, particularly the critically acclaimed video game series by CD Projekt Red and the Netflix television series. Andrzej Sapkowski’s creation has become a cultural phenomenon, extending its influence well beyond the realms of fantasy literature and into the broader fabric of contemporary media.
Below you’ll find the complete chronological Witcher books order.
The Witcher Books Series in Order of Publication
| Blood of Elves | (2008) | |
| The Time of Contempt | (2013) | |
| Baptism of Fire | (2014) | |
| The Tower of Swallows | (2016) | |
| Lady of the Lake | (2016) | |
| Season of Storms | (2018) | |
| The Lady of the Lake | (2022) | |
| For a chronological reading experience, it’s recommended to start with “The Last Wish,” followed by “Sword of Destiny” and then “Season of Storms.” After these, proceed with “Blood of Elves” and continue with the rest of the series in the order of publication. | ||
Witcher Collections Books in Order of Publication
| Sword of Destiny | (1992) |
| The Last Wish | (1993) |
You can buy the full Witcher book series on Amazon via this link.
The Witcher Book Series – FAQs
Q: How many Witcher books are there in the series?
Answer: There are 8 books in the Witcher series. This captivating saga unfolds across eight books, featuring two compilations of enthralling short stories. Beyond the narrative texts, the series has been enriched with illustrated versions, a dedicated cookbook, and coloring books, all inviting readers to immerse themselves in a realm where elves, formidable creatures, and enchantment abound.
Q: What order is the best way to read The Witcher series?
Answer: It’s best to begin with “The Last Wish,” and then move on to “Sword of Destiny”. After completing these, dive into “Blood of Elves” and continue through the series according to the order in which they were published.