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The Witcher (Book)

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The Witcher (Book) | The Witcher Books Age Rating

Are you curious about the famous novel series The Witcher? want to know how many Witcher books are there? and the Witcher books, all information about, THE WITCHER NOVEL SERIES. The Witcher Book Series Age Rating and Parents Guide for the book as, if the reading of this book is good for your teenage kids or not? Read the complete article for more details.

How many Witcher Books are there?

The Witcher book series is a collection of 6 novels and this series of 6 includes fifteen short stories which are written by Polish writer Andrzej Sapkowski . And the series is all about the main character of your favorite Netflix TV- Series “ The Witcher ” called Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter who a magically enhanced and also possesses supernatural abilities because of his mutations. Geralt of Rivia has been described as a character embodying “ the neo-liberal anti-politics ” spirit of the Polish popular culture of the 1990s.

Andrzej Sapkowski starts to write The Witcher in 1986 as short stories. Andrzej Sapkowski published his first short story about The Witcher in the Fantastyka a Polish monthly fantasy and science fiction magazine. – a debut that led to the publishing success of The Witcher Saga. In 1999, as per the demands of the readers, Sapkowski wrote a series of a book of another 14 stories named The Witcher Saga. And in 2013 a final prequel novel Season of Storms.

Get The Witcher Series Book

The book is described as a sect that has been followed in Poland and Central and Eastern European countries. These books have been translated into 37 languages and by December 2019, more than 15 million copies were sold worldwide. A film The Hexer and a popular Netflix series The Witcher , also some games such as The Witcher (2007) , The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings , and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt are based on the book series The Witcher.

The Witcher Books Age Rating

I will recommend that the series of this book should be read by mature adults (18+) only, as This book contains a number of sexual scenes, some profanity, rape, murder, etc… not appropriate and also not easy to understand for children. 

What is the Correct Order to read The Witcher Books?

If you want to go deep in this series here is the correct order to read the Witcher Books. You should start with the short stories by this you will get familiar with all the interesting characters of the book and will get easy to understand the further books.

• The Last Wish (short stories)
• Sword of Destiny (short stories)

The Last Wish

The Last Wish (short stories) – Geralt of Rivia, is THE WITCHER A cunning sorcerer. A merciless assassin. And a cold-blooded killer. His sole purpose in life is: to destroy the monsters that were harmful to the world. But not everything monstrous-looking is evil and not everything fair is good. . . and in every fairy tale, there is a grain of truth. [Source: Publisher (Orbit)]

Sword of Destiny

Sword of Destiny (short stories) – Geralt of Rivia is a Witcher, a man whose magic powers and lifelong training have made him a brilliant fighter and a merciless assassin. Yet he is no ordinary killer: he hunts the vile fiends that ravage the land and attack the innocent. But not everything monstrous-looking is evil; not everything fair is good . . . and in every fairy tale there is a grain of truth. [Source: Publisher (Orion)]

The Witcher Saga

The Witcher Saga is a collection of Blood of Elves, Time of Contempt, Baptism of Fire, The Tower of the Swallow, and The Lady of the Lake.

Blood of Elves

Blood of Elves- “For more than a hundred years humans, dwarves, gnomes, and elves lived together in relative peace. But times have changed, and now the races fight each other once again. In this tumultuous time, a child is born: Ciri. She has strange powers and a stranger destiny, for a prophecy names her as one with the power to change the world, for good or for evil.

The witcher Geralt has taken Ciri to relative safety, but it soon becomes clear that Ciri is not like the other witchers. As the threat of war hangs over the land, Geralt and Ciri are pursued by someone who understands exactly what the prophecy means- and exactly what Ciri’s power could do. This time Geralt may have met his match”–Back cover. [Source: Publisher (Orion)]

Time of Contempt

Time of Contempt- Geralt the Witcher has fought monsters and demons across the land, but even he may not be prepared for what is happening to his world. The kings and armies are maneuvering for position, each fearing invasion from across the river, each fearing their neighbors more.

Intrigue, dissent, and rebellion are on all sides. The Elves and other non-humans are still suffering under decades of repression, and growing numbers join the commando units hidden deep in the forest, striking at will and then dissolving into the trees.

The Magicians are fighting amongst themselves, some in the pay of the kings, some sympathetic to the elves. And against this backdrop of fear and contempt Geralt and his lover Yennefer must protect Ciri, orphaned heir, and seek by all sides. For the prophecy rests on her, and whether she lives or dies she has the power to save the world – or perhaps end it. [Source: Publisher (Orion)]

Baptism of Fire

Baptism of Fire- Geralt of Rivia is on a mission to save his ward, Ciri, and with her the world, in this third novel in the bestselling Witcher series that inspired the Netflix show and video games. The Wizards Guild has been shattered by a coup and, in the uproar, Geralt was seriously injured.

The Witcher is supposed to be a guardian of the innocent, a protector of those in need, a defender against powerful and dangerous monsters that prey on men in dark times. But now that dark times have fallen upon the world, Geralt is helpless until he has recovered from his injuries.

While war rages across all of the lands, the future of magic is under threat and those sorcerers who survive are determined to protect it. It’s an impossible situation in which to find one girl Ciri, the heiress to the throne of Cintra has vanished until a rumor places her in the Niflgaard court, preparing to marry the Emperor. Injured or not, Geralt has a rescue mission on his hands. [Source: Publisher (Gollancz)]

The Tower of the Swallow

The Tower of the Swallow- Geralt the Witcher races to find his missing ward, Ciri, in this fourth novel in the bestselling Witcher series that inspired the Netflix show and video games. The world has fallen into war. Ciri, the child of prophecy, has vanished.

Hunted by friends and foes alike, she has taken on the guise of a petty bandit and lives free for the first time in her life. But the net around her is closing. Geralt, the Witcher, has assembled a group of allies determined to rescue her. Both sides of the war have sent brutal mercenaries to hunt her down. Her crimes have made her famous. [Source: Publisher (Orion)]

The Lady of the Lake

The Lady of the Lake- After walking through a portal in the Tower of the Swallow, thus narrowly escaping death, the Witcher girl, Ciri, finds herself in a completely different world. A world of the Elves. She is trapped with no way out. Time does not seem to exist and there are no obvious borders or portals to cross back into her homeworld. But this is Ciri, the child of prophecy, and she will not be defeated.

She knows she must escape to finally rejoin the Witcher, Geralt, and his companions – and also to try to conquer her worst nightmare. Leo Bonhart, the man who chased, wounded, and tortured Ciri, is still on her trail. And the world is still at war. [Source: Publisher (Gollancz)]

Standalone Novel

There is a standalone book is also available in the Witcher Books titled Season of Storm it is also called the prequel of the Witcher Saga.

Season of Storms

Season of Storms- Before he was Ciri’s guardian, Geralt of Rivia was a legendary swordsman. Season of Storms is an adventure set in the world of The Witcher, the book series that inspired the hit Netflix show and bestselling video games. Geralt. The witcher’s mission is to protect ordinary people from the monsters created with magic.

A mutant who has the task of killing unnatural beings. He uses a magical sign, potions, and the pride of every witcher – two swords, steel, and silver. But what would happen if Geralt lost his weapons? Andrzej Sapkowski returns to his phenomenal world of The Witcher in a stand-alone novel where Geralt fights, travels and loves again, Dandelion sings and flies from trouble to trouble, sorcerers are scheming … and across the whole world, clouds are gathering. [Source: Publisher (Orion)]

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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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The Last Wish (The Witcher, 1) Paperback – July 18, 2017

Purchase options and add-ons.

• Part of series The Witcher Saga
• Print length 352 pages
• Language English
• Publication date July 18, 2017
• Dimensions 5.5 x 0.88 x 8.25 inches
• ISBN-10 0316438960
• ISBN-13 978-0316438964
• See all details

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From the Publisher

Editorial reviews, about the author, product details.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Orbit; Later Printing edition (July 18, 2017)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 352 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0316438960
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0316438964
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 10.4 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.5 x 0.88 x 8.25 inches
• #2,344 in Sword & Sorcery Fantasy (Books)
• #4,364 in Fantasy Action & Adventure
• #5,758 in Epic Fantasy (Books)

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The Last Wish: Introducing the Witcher (The Witcher, 1)

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About the author

Andrzej sapkowski.

Andrzej Sapkowski (Polish pronunciation: [ˈandʐɛj sapˈkɔfskʲi]; born 21 June 1948) is a Polish fantasy writer and former economist. He is best known for his best-selling book series The Witcher. In 2012 Sapkowski was awarded the Medal for Merit to Culture – Gloria Artis.

Bio from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Photo by Czech Wikipedia user Packa (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons.

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The Witcher books reading order: where to start with the short stories and novels

Reading order recs for starting your Witcher novels journey.

• Reading order
• Other books and comics
• Should you read them?

Looking for where to start the Witcher books after watching the show? The Witcher season 2 has been out for a while and season 3 has finished filming . A few books have been covered so far, so it's time to look forward to what we can expect in the next season. We'll most likely be hearing a lot more from Phillipa Eilhart and Djikstra as they attempt to wrangle more control in Redania, and Francesca and the elves have already started their retaliation upon the north which won't end well for anyone.

The Witcher 4 : What we know The Witcher season 3 : Trailers and cast Witcher 3 mods : Good hunting

Generally speaking, the show changes plenty of details but takes the broad strokes of its plots directly from the Witcher stories written by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski, which were also the basis for the CD Projekt Red Witcher games. If you want to read the story that The Witcher season 2 's first episode is based on, for instance, you'll find it in The Last Wish , the Witcher book we recommend you start with. 

It's not the most complicated fantasy series ever, but because the stories weren't released in chronologic order, release date won't be your best guide.The Witcher started in the '80s as a series of short stories written by Sapkowski for a fantasy magazine. In the '90s, the stories were published in two collections, which were followed by five novels, all published throughout the same decade. The books were released in English in 2007, with Danusia Stok translating the first two and David French taking over duties from the third book.

The Witcher books follow the story of the titular Witcher, Geralt of Rivia. A Witcher is a mutated human—most certainly a man—who possess supernatural abilities and has trained from childhood to battle monsters that emerged during the Conjunction of the Spheres. Many stories have been told in the Witcher universe, but the central arc follows Geralt as he protects Ciri, a princess whose country has been conquered and his child surprise. If you want sword-wielding action, romance, family ties and grotesque monsters, you're in the right place. 

Witcher books reading order

The witcher books reading order.

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Let's get down to business: what order should you read the books in? As previously mentioned, you'll want to ignore the release dates and instead read them in true chronological order if you want the story to make sense. So, here's your list:

• The Last Wish
• Sword of Destiny
• Blood of Elves
• Time of Contempt
• Baptism of Fire
• The Tower of the Swallow
• The Lady of the Lake
• Season of Storms (optional; explained below)

You'll want to start with The Last Wish . While it was published second, it's the start of the series, introducing Geralt and establishing the Continent as a backdrop. 

The Last Wish introduces everything you'll see in the games. Sapkowski sets the scene beginning with the importance of Geralt's silver sword with which he kills the monsters. He also depicts the often-corrupt governments that reside throughout the world, and we meet an ensemble of colourful characters many of us have come to know and love. These include Dandelion (aka Jaskier), a poet friend of Geralt who is hearing these tales we’re experiencing, and Yennefer, a sorceress with whom Geralt begins a turbulent relationship. 

The story, A Grain of Truth, which features in this collection kicks off the second season of the Netflix show, telling the story of Nivellen. The rest of the stories in The Last Wish make up most of the show's first season, though it also draws from the book you should read second: Sword of Destiny . It's in Sword of Destiny that we get to know Ciri, and each story takes place directly before the main novels.

A recent release, Season of Storms , takes place within the stories of The Last Wish. While its events aren't integral to the main arc, it's a lore-heavy entry that's worth reading.

Otherwise, read the books in the order they were released: Blood of Elves , Time of Contempt , Baptism of Fire , The Tower of the Swallow and The Lady of the Lake . 

Below are the best prices for these books individually, but they do get sold together on Amazon—the first six books all together on Amazon US and the first seven bundled together on Amazon UK .

How many Witcher books are in the series?

As counted above, there are eight books in the Witcher series—six novels, and two short story collections. Some lists will count the series at nine books, including  The Witcher , the original 1990 publication of the first five Witcher short stories. Because those stories were all republished in The Last Wish when the series jumped publishers, and because the original book is now out of print, it's not really worth considering as a separate title.

Other Witcher books and graphic novels

Are there other witcher books.

Away from the novels, it's also worth reading The World of the Witcher , which is a compendium of information created directly by CD Projekt Red. It's a beautifully illustrated addition to the series that contains everything you'll want to know about monsters, weapons, people and places. Be warned, though, it does feature spoilers for the games and the books.  Read it, and you too can call yourself Geralt of Trivia.

There is a designated Witcher 3: Wild Hunt art book but it is pretty rare as it was released only with collector's editions. One to look out for though; I know I always do. And there's yet more artwork available now following the release of the Gwent game, as it too now has its own art book: The Art of the Witcher: Gwent Gallery Collection . And to finish the art side of things off, there's a Witcher Adult Coloring Book that will keep you occupied long into the night, giving your favourite characters unique outfits and painting your own Witcher pictures.

The Witcher graphic novels

Aside from the short stories and novels, graphic novels from Dark Horse Comics have been released. While not written by Sapkowski, the comics do a great job of adding extras to already released stories, plus they look great as the art evokes the nasty themes of the books and games. Volume 1 , Volume 2 and Volume 3 all include several stories each, while a collated Library Edition packs everything in one. 

Should you read The Witcher books?

Why should i read them if i’ve played the games.

Because you are obviously desperate for more Witcher content, that's why! One joy I took from rereading the series was reading them with the voices of the games' characters in mind. I could hear Doug Cockle's dulcet tone every time Geralt spoke, which adds a greater depth to the stories. 

They are wonderful books to read with complex political narratives, plenty of backstabbing, magic and love. They aren't just for fantasy nerds, either; they are accessible to lovers of all genres who just want a good series to read. Once you've read them all, you can finally take part in the "What's better: the books, Netflix series or games?" discourse. Come with your notes prepared.

Reading the books will give you a better sense of the world, flesh out more of the cast and create a stronger bond between yourself and the situations in the lore. Characters are drawn with more depth, and although much of the plot will be known to you if you played the games, the books fill in small gaps here and there.

How faithful are The Witcher games to the books?

Very, though only so much of the books was directly brought to the games. CD Projekt Red went to great lengths to bring Sapkowski’s witty, wry and strong Geralt of Rivia to players of the games. Due to the branching narratives of the games, the plot is based on the books, rather than a direct retelling of every story. Everything you’ve seen in the games, however, from runes to weapons and monsters are featured in the series of novels. 

There’s an interesting divide between how Sapkowski sees his world and how it was translated to games, but readers will notice only small differences here and there. Coming to the books from the games brings a certain spark of life to the battles and fights.

It's worth noting though that the games, especially ones of such quality, are designed to bring excitement and danger. This can make some sections of the book—mainly the political discussions—rather dull in comparison. The games, because they deliver the story in bite-sized chunks between the killing and hunting, offer the most interactive way to experience part of Geralt's story.

How faithful to the books is the Netflix Witcher series?

A lot more than the games, by design. Officially, the Witcher show is based directly on the books, not the games. That said, the show takes some liberties, particularity with timing. To more naturally introduce viewers to Geralt and the world around him, Season 1's story is a combination of The Last Wish's short stories and the beginning of Ciri's arc in Sword of Destiny.

The first season was confusing for some folk, so Netflix put together a gorgeous timeline map to keep it all straight (spoiler warning for the books, obviously).  The second season is much more linear and easy to understand, with a few adaptations to stories here and there.

Where can I get all these books?

Since the profile of The Witcher series and books has been elevated to brilliant, world-famous heights, the books, on the whole, are available from all the major retailers, including Amazon . The only one that is a bit difficult to get, as mentioned above, is the collector's edition The Witcher 3 art book but it usually appears on eBay occasionally. However, for your ease and comfort, see the best prices currently going on all the books below. 

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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. 

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)

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The Witcher's Ciri Actor Nailed The Impossible Challenge Facing Liam Hemsworth's Geralt After Cavill's Exit

Why the witcher star freya allan is relieved the series is ending after 5 seasons, the witcher's freya allan reveals book storyline she's most excited for in seasons 4 & 5.

Have you binged all eight episodes of  The Witcher  on Netflix yet? If not, there's still time to stay ahead of the cultural touchstone the show is about to become. If you have seen the show and are confused, clarity is available in the books. If you want more details than the show already provided information is available, in the books. If your impatient and don't want to wait until the next season comes out to find out what happens to Geralt, Ciri, and Yennefer, there are the books.

RELATED: The Witcher: 10 Best Fight Scenes on the Show, Ranked

There are eight books, now all translated from Polish into English, available. Two of the books are short story collections following all your favorite characters, one is a standalone about Geralt, and five are the greater overarching story of Geralt and Ciri and their destiny. Reading the books in chronological order always makes the most sense (even if the show didn't really go in chronological order) but below we look at the books in order of their popularity from least loved to most adored.

Season of Storms - 3.95 Stars

Season of Storms  is the most recent  The Witcher  novel and, according to Goodread, the least beloved.  Season of Storms  is the least connected of the eight novels, being a standalone story all about Geralt and the loss of his weapons. Chronologically the novel is set sometime during the short story collection  The Last Wish (so about the same time as the first season of the show on  Netflix ), but its plot leaves it sitting off on a shelf by itself in a way none of the other books seem to. Part of  The Witcher 's popularity comes from how its sometimes disparate storylines later come together, and this book (while still popular) can't quite compete with its siblings.

Blood of Elves - 4.17 Stars

Blood of Elves is technically the third book in  The Witcher  series, but it is the first sort of saga novel, its two chronological predecessors being the short story collections (along with the new  Season of Storms ). It is very impressive that of eight books all but one in the series are rated at four stars or higher. This story is really where Geralt and Ciri's relationship actually takes off (so connected in its way to the first season of the Netflix show).

RELATED: 5 Reasons The Witcher Geralt Will be a Better Dad Than the Mandalorian (& 5 Reasons He Won't)

It is well-loved though, obviously as an early book in the series, has to do a lot of heavy lifting in terms of setting up the story, which may explain its lower rating.

The Last Wish - 4.19 Stars

The Last Wish  may sound familiar to Netflix viewers as the short story for which this first collection is named does make up one of the most prominent episodes in season one (where Geralt and Yennefer first meet). If you are looking for some of the major source material for the first season of  The Witcher  on television, this is the book for you. One of the two short story collections in  The Witcher  series, this book is home not only to Geralt and Yennefer's first meeting, but also the season premiere episode in which viewers are introduced to Geralt as the Blaviken.

Lady of the Lake - 4.24 Stars

The Lady of the Lake  is the final book in  The Witcher  series by Andrzej Sapkowski, though it's the last book chronologically, which means there could still be other Geralt and Ciri stories to tell in other collections. Anyway, the grand finale of the sage comes in right in the middle of the list. It obviously means the ending to the long story is at least satisfactory to most, though not their favorite adventure overall. If you're a Ciri fan this book gives you the most Ciri screentime, no contest, so that's something to look forward to if you are planning to take on all of the books.

The Time of Contempt - 4.26 Stars

The Time of Contempt  i s the second book in the saga (so again, behind two short story collections as well as The Blood of Elves ). Having set up the world already it seems readers enjoy being able to slip right back into the war on the continent rather than having to learn about it as they go. This is where things get serious and scary (not that there wasn't action and chaos in  The Blood of Elves ). Here Geralt and Ciri really begin to understand how unstable the world around them really is and what being important to the fight might actually mean for them.

The Tower of Swallows - 4.32 Stars

The Tower of Swallows  again puts the reader right in the middle of the Geralt/Ciri story. War is real and spreading and (spoiler alert) Ciri has disappeared. She's not dead, but she's certainly not at Geralt's side, or even with Yennefer. Here the stories of the main trio once again diverge, though they desperately fight to find one another again. The Tower of Swallows  is the penultimate book in the saga series and, it seems, does such an excellent job setting up for the finale of the series that it is a more well-loved story.

Baptism of Fire - 4.34 Stars

Baptism of Fire  is the third novel in  The Witcher  saga stories: Blood of Elves, Time of Contempt, Baptism of Fire, The Tower of Swallows, and Lady of the Lake . That means it is the very center of the saga story and, apparently, the most popular of all five books. Again, Ciri and Geralt are separated, and rumor has it Ciri has finally been taken by Nilfgaard and resides in its court.

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

Geralt will try and rescue her. She may be his destiny, but Ciri is also far from Geralt's only problem. These problems make  Baptism of Fire  all the more popular as a story.

Sword of Destiny - 4.35 Stars

Just squeaking by to take the top spot from  Baptism of Fire  is  Sword of Destiny,  the second of  The Witcher  short story collections, after  The Last Wish . This collection is actually where Ciri first appears (chronologically) in the pages of the series. The fall of the Kingdom of Cintra, as seen in season one of the Netflix show, appears in this collection.  The Sword of Destiny  may be a favorite because it does an excellent job setting up the wider world of  The Witcher  while also introducing characters and plot points that will play large roles in the greater saga to follow.

NEXT: The Witcher: 10 Questions the Netlfix Series Needs to Answer in Season 2

• The Witcher (2019)

The Witcher age rating: Is the show appropriate for kids?

By sabrina reed | dec 14, 2021.

The Witcher season 2 is set to make its premiere on Friday, Dec. 17 on Netflix .

The fantasy drama series captivated audiences in its first season run thanks to Henry Cavill’s turn as Geralt of Rivia and the fervor around Anya Chalotra’s Yennefer. Not to mention the stunning action sequences involving sword fights and magic use.

If you missed the boat in 2019 when the Netflix original made its debut, now is an excellent time to launch into the series as it embarks on a new chapter. However, this isn’t a fantastical adventure that the whole family can enjoy.

The Witcher is an adult fantasy and not just the kind that has a mature rating due only to violence and bloodshed.

The Witcher age rating

In the lead up to The Witcher ‘s debut on Netflix, it had been hailed as the streamer’s answer to Game of Thrones . Unfortunately, ever since HBO’s juggernaut fantasy series landed and became the talk of the pop culture mainstream, most fantasies that premiered after the show have had to contend with the comparisons.

While Game of Thrones fans are likely to enjoy Geralt’s story, the shows aren’t that similar though they’re rated TV-MA for much of the same content.

There’s graphic violence, nudity, blood and gore, profanity, alcohol consumption, sexually explicit scenes, animal death, murder, frightening situations, discussions and/or depictions of assault, xenophobia, ableism, bigotry, etc.

So the show isn’t appropriate for kids nor is it a kid friendly adult series. However, it is an enjoyable narrative brimming with tales of destiny, magic, love, betrayal, and more.

If you’re into fantasies that involve prophecy, cross-continental traveling, creatures and monsters, fight sequences that’ll leave you on the edge of your seat, and lore that’ll captivate your imagination then The Witcher is the Netflix original for you!

Next. Is The Witcher season 3 coming to Netflix in 2022?. dark

The Witcher Book Review: ‘Sword of Destiny’ by Andrzej Sapkowski

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Once again we join Geralt the witcher on his adventures. From childhood he has been raised with one purpose: to destroy monsters at every turn. But that doesn’t make it easy. It’s up to him to determine what is right or wrong, who needs protection, and who needs protecting. Let’s continue journeying with Geralt of Rivia in Andrzej Sapkowski’s Sword of Destiny . (Translated into English by David French )

[ Warning: My review of Sword of Destiny contains some spoilers!]

Geralt and Dandelion make an engaging pair

Sword of Destiny is similar to Sapkowski’s The Last Wish in that they’re both anthologies following the exploits of Geralt of Rivia. Sword of Destiny continues with the monster-of-the-day presentation that The Last Wish had. Dandelion is again at Geralt’s side for most of his adventures. Sometimes the two travel around together and other times they happen to encounter each other. I love when Dandelion is with Geralt because his levity and banter are a nice foil to Geralt’s seriousness. It’s also interesting to see the two getting on with women because while Dandelion is always trying to get women, Geralt can’t seem to get rid of them. 

Geralt doesn’t try to attract women, he’s still too caught up on Yennifer, but they all throw themselves at him anyway. Something about his quiet power and complete confidence draws them in and convinces them that he’s worth chasing. I think that they secretly think that they’ll be the ones to finally capture his heart. So when it turns out that he will return their physical advances but never the emotional ones, they always break. Geralt leaves a string of broken hearts behind him without even trying. It’s sad. Both for the women and for him. After all, Geralt is always alone and sad because of how Yennifer toys with him, but he can’t change how he feels for her, and so he can’t try with anyone new. 

How Sword of Destiny ties to The Last Wish

Dandelion isn’t the only familiar face from The Last Wish . In The Last Wish Geralt saves a man from a curse and unites him with his princess love. The man offers him anything he wishes as a reward. Geralt invokes the Law of Surprise, claiming that which the man has, but doesn’t yet know he has. This ends up being a child that his lover is carrying. Geralt hoped the child would be a boy he could train as a witcher. After the exchange Geralt leaves, promising to return in six years to collect his boon. In Sword of Destiny, we learn what became of that Child of Surprise. 

It was nice to see that continuity from one book to the next. Just like his relationship with Yennifer, or meeting up with Dandelion again, these connections make Geralt’s world feel more three-dimensional and real. Hopefully, these connections continue throughout the series.

A running theme in The Witcher novels

As I read Sword of Destiny, I realized that Sapkowski had woven a theme throughout the two books. In adventure after adventure things aren’t quite how they seem. The monsters aren’t really monsters. The rewards aren’t gratifying. Geralt has emotions that he shouldn’t. What looks like hate is love. I could go on but you get the idea. 

Now of course sometimes the monsters are exactly that, monsters. Sometimes the rewards are worth it. And sometimes hate is real. But more often than not there is more going on than there seems to be. I have a feeling that this will be an overall theme of the entire Witcher series. Just like the witcher superstitions don’t define Geralt, so things aren’t always as they appear. Or maybe I should say “Don’t judge a book by its cover” (this is a book review after all).

Sword of Destiny still has plenty of laughs

A nice aspect of Sword of Destiny is that it made me laugh. A lot. Even though Sapkowski could have made Geralt’s world a dark, depressing place, he doesn’t. Through Dandelion he injects a lot of humor into Sword of Destiny . Dandelion himself is very witty and has a hard time controlling his mouth (translation, he doesn’t control his mouth). He also manages to get Geralt into some very funny situations. It’s always going to be a good read if Dandelion is along for the ride.

Geralt can be funny on his own, but it’s a different kind of humor. More of a dry humor that comes from people underestimating him or acting like they’re better than him. I enjoy it, but not as much as when Dandelion is around.

A good translation for these Andrzej Sapkowski novels

Translation is hard. As someone who spent two years translating French to English for all different types of reading, I know this intimately. So whenever I read a book that wasn’t originally written in English I make sure to keep that in mind. What’s more, I have to remember that the book I’m reading isn’t just the work of the named author, but the translator as well. When I read a different Sapkowski book earlier this year ,  I was very underwhelmed. So I wasn’t sure about trying The Witcher books. But I reminded myself that it could have been the translator that I didn’t like the first time and I gave Sapkowski a second chance with an open mind. 

And boy am I glad I did. The translator for The Last Wish and Sword of Destiny did a good job. There are a few times that things didn’t quite sound right but for the most part the text felt like a native English speaker wrote it. The humor and excitement translated very well and I was never bored. Sapkowski wrote a great book and his publisher found a great translator.

Better than TV

Everyone probably knows about the Netflix series The Witcher . The second season of The Witcher is based loosely on Sword of Destiny . The series has been well received and is already renewed for a third (coming this June and July) and fourth season. While they are great to watch, nothing beats the novel for really getting to know the characters. If you have seen the show I really suggest that you check out Sword of Destiny . If you haven’t seen the Netflix series, I still recommend reading Sword of Destiny. M eet Geralt and his friends (and enemies!), and enjoy an escape into fantasy.

My Rating: 9/10

The Witcher: Sword of Destiny by Andrzej Sapkowski (Translated into Engish by David French ) is available now! Are you interested in reading it? Let us know on Twitter or in The Cosmic Circus Discord.

The Witcher Book Review: The Last Wish by Andrzej Sapkowski

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 219 posts and counting. See all posts by Luna Gauthier

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The witcher.

• Parents say (37)
• Kids say (52)

Based on 52 kid reviews

Great show, REALLY violent

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Yes it is okay, awesome show, important things to know about the witcher netflix, before watching., from 15 to 18 years old something between, good but way too graphic..

You Probably Shouldn't Watch Netflix's 'The Witcher' With Kids

Dec. 13 2019, Updated 5:17 p.m. ET

Long-time fans of The Witcher video games and book series know that this fantastical tale is not for the faint of heart. But if you're hoping to watch the upcoming Netflix series with the whole family, here's a warning: the series' age rating is going to be very high.

Netflix's The Witcher is taking a hint from the books and going for a high age rating.

Fans of the books and video games of The Witcher were initially worried about the stories getting watered down for the streaming platform and it was assumed that the show would take on a more PG-13 storyline. But, speaking to Entertainment Weekly , showrunner Lauren Hissrich said that they're not shying away from anything, as long as it directly affects the story.

"I’ve been rewatching dailies and my kids aren’t allowed to look at the screen anymore after one of them snuck around and saw something they shouldn’t have seen and it scared him. It’s a very adult show," she said. "I will add it was important to me that any violence or sex drives the story and is not there just for shock value. I think audiences are really savvy and know when we’re doing stuff to just shock them versus do stuff that really drives the story."

What do the reviews say about the lust and gore on the show?

Official reviews for the series are under embargo until the day of The Witcher 's release but that hasn't stopped some reviewers from sharing thoughts on social media. 

The show is getting constant comparisons to Game of Thrones , with some saying that The Witcher 's battle scenes, some of which have been released online , look better than anything GOT produced. Not to mention bloodier. 

One reviewer at the Financial Times broke the embargo and was immediately forced to take their review down but, like everything on the internet, once it's out there, it's out there forever and the review has been screenshot and passed around on Twitter . 

Although the reviewer mainly focused on a disappointment over the show's central plot, with many comparisons to Game of Thrones , she does also note that the show is "certainly violent enough." She claims that, if someone is going to get stabbed, they're going to get stabbed at least a dozen times. 

The other popular topic of conversation is in regards to the sex scenes, which are very common in The Witcher games. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt , for instance, contains many different options for the Witcher, Geralt, to woo different acquaintances . Should you decide to woo them, you'll unlock scenes complete with full frontal nudity and nothing blurred. The scenes are so graphic you can literally find compilations of them on porn sites.

While you should expect some sex scenes in the upcoming Netflix series, Lauren says not to expect anything too gratuitous. She's only keeping in scenes that are more directly relevant to the story. 

When asked about sex in the series by Variety , she said, "Whenever I approach sexuality, intimacy between characters, or nudity, to me it’s about: Does this do anything for our story? And does this do anything for our character? Are we looking to have a character be more vulnerable in this moment?... I always go back to story and character, and if it doesn’t have anything to do with those we don’t need it."

So is The Witcher OK to watch with kids?

Probably not. At the moment, Netflix has not yet assigned an age rating to the series, but it's assumed that it will at least be TV-MA. If Peaky Blinders and Daybreak managed to reach a TV-MA rating, it's safe to say that The Witcher with join those ranks as there isn't currently a higher TV show rating on Netflix .

The Witcher will be released on Netflix in the U.S. on Dec. 20.

Who Is Yennefer on Netflix's 'The Witcher'? — Meet the Powerful Sorceress

'The Witcher' Gets Greenlit for Season 2 Before It Even Premieres

Freya Allan Is Ciri in Netflix's 'The Witcher'

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10 Ways Ciri Is Different In The Witcher Show Vs. The Books

• Netflix's adaptation of The Witcher has made controversial changes to Ciri's character, including her age and relationships.
• Ciri's portrayal in the series differs from her book counterpart, particularly regarding her gullibility and backstory.
• The series explores Ciri's character and backstory more extensively than the books, allowing for a deeper understanding of her journey.

Netflix’s The Witcher has made some controversial changes to Andrzej Sapkowki’s novels, and among the characters who have been changed in different ways is Ciri (Freya Allan). Although Netflix’s adaptation of The Witcher is one of the streaming giant’s biggest successes in recent years, it hasn’t been safe from controversy. The series has made various changes to the characters and their stories that have been quite controversial, as seen with how it handled Yennefer’s story in season 2 – but Yennefer isn’t the only character who is now very different from her book counterpart, as this has also happened to Ciri.

The Lion Cub of Cintra has had an interesting journey in The Witcher ’s three seasons so far, as she had to run away from Cintra when Nilfgaard attacked, found Geralt, trained at Kaer Morhen, was almost sacrificed to the Voleth Meir by Yennefer, and is now far away from Geralt and Yennefer and, most likely, powerless. Ciri is on her way to becoming the most important character in Netflix’s The Witcher , but the character is very different from her book version, and it’s to be seen if she will continue to change – and here are 10 ways Ciri is different in Netflix’s The Witcher .

Ciri Is Younger In The Witcher Books

One of the biggest differences between Netflix’s version of Ciri and the one from the books is her age. In the books, Ciri is around 11 years old when Cintra falls, and meets Geralt at around the age of 12. In Netflix’s The Witcher , Ciri is older as Freya Allan was in her late teens when she was cast, and though this doesn’t change the character that much (the series even showed her going out to play with friends and being treated like a child in the first season), it has been one of the biggest differences between the Netflix series and the books that fans of the latter have pointed out. It’s worth noting, however, that Ciri’s age became quite confusing in the final novels, which in a way can justify the change in the series.

Book Ciri Is Never Possessed By The Voleth Meir

Netflix’s The Witcher has added characters that don’t come from Sapkowski’s stories, most notably season 2’s Voleth Meir. The Deathless Mother made deals with Fringilla, Francesca, and Yennefer to give them what they desired, but the price was very high. In Yennefer’s case, she had to hand Ciri to the Voleth Meir in order to regain her powers, and though she couldn’t bring herself to do it, Ciri was later possessed by the Deathless Mother. Ciri was saved by Yennefer, who sacrificed herself, but this mess never happened to book Ciri.

Ciri & Yennefer Don't Initially Get Along In The Witcher Books

Ciri and Yennefer’s relationship in Netflix’s The Witcher has been quite smooth so far, even though the sorceress almost sacrificed the princess for her own benefit, but in the books, it was a bit difficult at first. Ciri didn’t like Yennefer at first because the sorceress was quite cold, and she was also jealous of her outstanding beauty. To make it more complicated, Yennefer thought Ciri was lazy and stubborn and was jealous of her deep bond with Geralt. In the end, just like in the Netflix series, they developed a strong mother/daughter bond.

Ciri Is Very Gullible In The Witcher Novels

Ciri is hard to trick in Netflix’s The Witcher , but in the novels, she’s very gullible, which can be attributed to her young age. As Ciri was trained in Kaer Morhen and raised by witchers, she lacked a lot of knowledge, especially about womanly needs. Triss Merigold was key in teaching Ciri about these, but she was still quite gullible, so much so that the children in Melitele’s temple constantly teased her, such as when they made her believe she wouldn’t be able to cast spells because she was a virgin.

Ciri Learns About Geralt & The Law of Surprise Through Her Nanny

Ciri is bound to Geralt by the Law of Surprise, which she learned in the series as Cintra was under attack, but in the books, she was told about it by her nanny. Following the death of Ciri’s mother, Pavetta, Queen Calanthe did her best so Ciri wouldn’t know about Geralt and the Law of Surprise, but her nanny told the young princess all about the witcher and their unbreakable bond, and that one day he would come for her to be taken away to be trained as a witcher. Calanthe was furious, but Ciri now firmly believed that was her destiny.

Book Ciri Is Very Protective Of Geralt

The bond between Geralt and Ciri is very strong, to the point where they are very protective of each other. In the books, however, Ciri’s protectiveness went as far as to be jealous of Triss Merigold when she began courting Geralt while at Kaer Morhen. Ciri’s jealousy was justified, as Triss was using love potions to get Geralt to have feelings for her. As mentioned above, Ciri was also jealous of Yennefer at one point, but she ended up being protective of both Geralt and Yennefer when they became a family.

Book Ciri Isn't Betrayed By Yennefer

At the end of The Witcher season 1 and the beginning of season 2, Yennefer lost her powers and was desperate to regain them. This is what led her to accept the deal the Voleth Meir offered her, which as mentioned above, involved handing Ciri to the Deathless Mother. Yennefer betrayed both Geralt and Ciri by attempting to give Ciri to the Voleth Meir, but she ultimately didn’t do it and even sacrificed herself to break Ciri free from the Deathless Mother. This is one of the most controversial changes Netflix’s The Witcher has made, as in the books, Ciri was never betrayed by Yennefer.

Ciri Has A Controversial Dark Side In The Witcher Books

Ciri has gone through a lot from a very young age, so it’s not that surprising that she has had a dark and rebellious phase – what made it controversial was that Ciri’s rebellious phase included a gang of criminals, murder, and animal cruelty. The ending of The Witcher season 3 set up this side of Ciri as she met the Rats and introduced herself as Falka, and those familiar with the Witcher books know this is the beginning of Ciri’s controversial dark side. During her time with the rats, Ciri committed murder and torture and even kicked a dog out of frustration. It’s to be seen if Netflix’s The Witcher will bring all this to life or will tone it down.

Related: Who Is Falka? Hooded Scottish Woman & Connection To Ciri's New Name Explained

Ciri Isn’t As Selfless In The Book As She Is In Netflix’s The Witcher

Ciri has shown to have a good heart and be quite selfless in Netflix’s The Witcher , which isn’t exactly the case in the books. Perhaps as a result of all the trauma she has gone through, Ciri in the Witcher books is actually selfish and even arrogant, and wouldn’t really put someone else’s happiness and well-being before hers. This side of Ciri could be brought out in The Witcher season 4 now that she’s with the Rats, but it’s a trait that she hasn’t shown yet but was very present in the books.

Ciri's Backstory Is Explored More In Netflix's The Witcher

Something that Netflix’s The Witcher has done that has greatly benefited the characters is exploring their backstories deeper than the books did. Among them is Ciri, whose backstory isn’t fully explained in the books, with the biggest details being where she was born, her family connections, and her link to Geralt through the Law of Surprise, but details like her relationship with her parents before their deaths and her dynamic with Calanthe and others aren’t explored. However, Netflix’s The Witcher made some changes to parts of Ciri’s backstory that were ultimately for the benefit of her story, such as meeting Geralt until after the fall of Cintra, when in the books, they first met much earlier.

It’s a Good Thing ‘The Witcher’ Is Ending After Season 5

'The Witcher' doesn't need to go on forever.

The Big Picture

• The announcement of The Witcher ending after Season 5 allows the series to focus on wrapping up important plots.
• Advanced warning for the conclusion will help craft a satisfying end to the expansive story, setting up more action.
• While Season 5 concludes The Witcher 's original story, spin-offs like The Witcher: Blood Origin can expand the universe.

Netflix's The Witcher has had a lot of ups and downs, but the recent announcement that the series will end after its fifth season is good news. With the series having yet to release Season 4 , this is not an immediate cancelation, but rather an updated plan, which, admittedly, is a departure from the seven-season plan that was originally discussed . Leaving two seasons to wrap up the many unfinished plots while acknowledging that an end is in sight is the best thing The Witcher can do. Generally, shows are better when working towards a goal, and having a finite number of episodes left will allow the remaining seasons of The Witcher to prioritize its important stories, especially with the news of the update plan predating work on the final season.

The Witcher is an expansive story that always has a lot going on, so an advanced warning for the conclusion should give the series time to craft a satisfying end to all its plots. After moving rapidly through the story, covering decades in the first season and continuing to make strides as the Netflix series nears its natural climax and the war throughout the Continent has begun in earnest. The show doesn't need an endless number of seasons, just enough time to settle the conflict and allow Ciri ( Freya Allan ) to reach safety with the help of Geralt ( Henry Cavill in Seasons 1-3, recast as Liam Hemsworth ) and Yennefer ( Anya Chalotra ). With the main character recast after Season 3, the show faces obstacles, but nearing the end of the series will escalate the plot, providing action for the audience to focus on as they grow accustomed to the new Geralt .

The Witcher

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Geralt of Rivia, a solitary monster hunter, struggles to find his place in a world where people often prove more wicked than beasts.

'The Witcher' Season 3 Leaves Paths for Season 4 and 5

Even before the announcement that Season 5 would be the last, the story made it clear that The Witcher Season 3 marks the beginning of the end. With several cliffhangers, Season 3 leaves the story in a tense place. The war that has been building began and the identities of two mysterious enemies were revealed. With the rogue mage Vilgefortz ( Mahesh Jadu ) now a known threat and Emhyr, leader of Nilfgaard, shown to be Ciri's father Duny ( Bart Edwards ), the characters can fight their enemies in the open moving forward . Meanwhile, Geralt, still injured, will be searching for her, as always, after finally choosing an active role in the conflict, setting up more for the series.

With three of Andrzej Sapkowski 's books still not adapted (however loosely), it's clear that there is a lot left for the remaining two seasons. Yet The Witcher has entered its endgame, making continuing in the long term less feasible . Considering the story left Ciri with the Rats and Geralt on his way to rescue the fake Ciri ( Frances Pooley ) , fans have some idea of the twists coming in Season 4, which will (hopefully) reunite the characters again . But there is much more left. The Wild Hunt still hasn't played the significant role the series has hinted, and the Continent-wide war is still beginning.

How Will 'The Witcher' End?

Though it is quickly approaching, how The Witcher will end is still a mystery. Perhaps some spoilers can be found in the books or games the show is based on, yet the series has had no qualms about making major changes to the story , so no one can be sure until the finale is released. Yet, with the conclusion hanging above our heads, we know that Season 4 will have the important job of bringing the plots together for Season 5 to conclude. Certainly, the series has been building to a particular end as Ciri's character has grown; the abilities she has through her Elder blood are sure to be significant, as they have been crucial to the series.

Ciri has come into her power throughout the first three seasons, though she still must learn to use the abilities that she fears. As the central piece of the story, she will be a key player in the conclusion. Season 4 will pick up with her pretending to be a normal teen and joining the Rats, leaving Season 5 to force her into the war and her destiny. Ciri has long been presented as the rightful queen, and her ascending the throne once restoring peace to the Continent is the perfect finale. With Ciri in power and her ever-growing ability to defend herself, Geralt's role as her protector becomes less necessary, giving his character arc a natural ending as well. Though there is more for the series to wrap up, these two most important characters need a satisfying conclusion most.

This Is What Hurt ‘The Witcher’ Season 3

’the witcher’s season 5 conclusion does not have to be the end.

Though The Witcher 's finale is in sight, that isn't to say it is the end of the stories in this universe. Netflix has created the spin-off series The Witcher: Blood Origin and two animated films, The Witcher: Nightmare of the Wolf and the upcoming The Witcher: Sirens of the Deep , proving they can continue the world without Geralt as the star. There are always more opportunities available in such an expansive world, meaning that Netflix could shift focus with a spin-off. By nature of the name, The Witcher focuses on Geralt. However, Ciri has been a breakout character and has much more story ahead of her, justifying a new series on her life even after the war for the Continent is resolved.

Ciri has proven her mettle as a leading lady , opening a possibility for the show to continue through a Ciri-centric series if Netflix is so inclined. There is more than enough material as the series puts Ciri in the middle of the conflict between humans and elves that will not disappear quickly, even if peace is restored. The Witcher could find a way to continue, but, it is better for the series to conclude its original story and let the world live on in a new format than trying to drag out Geralt and Ciri's story indefinitely when there is a clear conclusion fast approaching. Ending with Season 5 is the best thing The Witcher can do, and the end of the story can invigorate the two upcoming seasons, giving fans the epic fantasy show they want.

All three seasons of The Witcher are now available to stream on Netflix in the U.S.

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