The Book Report Episode #12

Episode #11

Sword of Destiny By Andrzej Sapkowski

The Book

This is the first book published in the Witcher series but is classed as the second in chronological reading order, published in 1992 by the Polish publisher SuperNOWA. But didn’t get translated into English until 2015.

This book, just like The Last Wish novel, continues with a series of short stories. Prequels that help you understand what happened before the main story takes over in the third book. If, like me, you started with the show. It may help with the confusion.

What Did I Think

The Witcher is just some bloke making his way through the daemon and monster-invested lands, trying to make a living. But still, in the end, although he won’t admit to it, he hopes for love. Coin as well, of course, but… He hopes for love.

All this while he knows something is coming. He doesn’t know when. But it is coming.

He claims that he doesn’t have any feelings. But… He is now in a position where he knows what he wants. And he wants to make sure Yennefer understands this and when she is ready. He will be there waiting.

Although there is some combat and monster slaying, the stories are still about connection and camaraderie. The people or non-humans we meet in our journey through life. And how well we treat each other. That’s one thing I do like about these books so far. The Witcher doesn’t really care who you are. You can pay him to work. And if the job is honest. He will take your money.

If not, if you’re buying. He will gladly have a drink or meal with you.

Also, he may have to deal with a new lady in his life for a while.

The child

The stories lead to what has been, I believe, the principal connection to the TV series. And what I think is from the central arch of the story, The Witcher and Ciri. The “first” book tells of the meeting of the mother and father. This introduces the child. But I could be wrong.

A question lingers during the book. And while it was debated. It was never fully answered. Is destiny real?

The books, so far, have been a relaxing read. I always feel content when I have finished a section of the book. I will continue with the stories until I have completed them all.

The Audiobook

Well, if you can’t be bothered with reading the book. Listen to the audiobook instead.

Would I Recommend

Yes, how could I not? I enjoyed the stories as I did with the first book. Again, same as before. As much as I enjoyed the book. There was still nothing that made me go WOW. Hence, the same response to how I scored the book.

Would you like to purchase your very own copy? Try these shops: Amazon UK USA. Waterstones. AbeBooks UK USA. eBay UK USA. Or maybe your local bookshop. Or maybe try your local library.