The Witcher Books Reading Order

Here's the correct Witcher reading order: every book in the right order, where to start, and answers to common questions.

Andrzej Sapkowski's Witcher series follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter in a morally gray fantasy world. The books inspired the acclaimed video games and Netflix series. The reading order isn't obvious — start with the short stories, not the novels.

Our Recommendation: Short Stories First Start with The Last Wish, then Sword of Destiny. These short story collections introduce Geralt, Yennefer, and Ciri before the main saga begins with Blood of Elves.

Complete Witcher Reading Order

The Last Wish (short stories)Buy Now Audible1993
Sword of Destiny (short stories)Buy Now Audible1992
Blood of ElvesBuy Now Audible1994
Time of ContemptBuy Now Audible1995
Baptism of FireBuy Now Audible1996
The Tower of SwallowsBuy Now Audible1997
Lady of the LakeBuy Now Audible1999
Season of Storms (standalone)Buy Now Audible2013
Crossroads of Ravens (prequel novel)Buy Now Audible2025

Own the Complete Series Buying the whole series at once is usually cheaper than individual books, and box sets make a great gift. See The Witcher box set options on Amazon ›

Why Start with Short Stories?

The Last Wish and Sword of Destiny establish Geralt's character, his relationship with Yennefer, and his connection to Ciri. Blood of Elves (the first "novel") assumes you know all this. Starting with Blood of Elves will leave you confused about who everyone is and why they matter.

When to Read Season of Storms

Season of Storms was published last but is set between stories in The Last Wish. Read it:

After Lady of the Lake — Contains an epilogue that spoils the main saga
Never — It's optional and doesn't add much to the main story

Finished The Witcher? See what to read after The Witcher: First Law, The Black Company, Empire of the Vampire and more, each with its correct reading order.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct Witcher reading order?

Short Stories First. Start with The Last Wish, then Sword of Destiny. These short story collections introduce Geralt, Yennefer, and Ciri before the main saga begins with Blood of Elves.

Is the Witcher series finished?

The main saga is complete. Sapkowski added a prequel novel, Crossroads of Ravens, in 2025.

Do I need to read the books to enjoy the games?

No, the games work standalone. However, the books enhance your understanding of characters and references. The games are set after the books' events.

How does the Netflix show relate to the books?

Season 1 adapts The Last Wish and Sword of Destiny. Later seasons adapt the main saga. The show takes significant liberties with the source material.

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