Looking for books similar to The Witcher? You're not alone! Many readers, captivated by Andrzej Sapkowski's blend of dark fantasy, monster hunting, and complex characters, are eager to find their next great read. The Witcher series, with its morally grey world and compelling protagonist Geralt of Rivia, has set a high bar.
One popular avenue is exploring other works by Andrzej Sapkowski himself. His earlier short stories, often collected in volumes, offer a deeper dive into the world and characters before the main saga unfolds. These are a great starting point for those who enjoyed the episodic nature of the early Witcher tales.
Beyond Sapkowski, consider authors like Joe Abercrombie, whose First Law trilogy shares a similar grim and gritty tone. Abercrombie's characters are often flawed and morally ambiguous, much like Geralt, and the world is harsh and unforgiving. For fans of intricate world-building and political intrigue, George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire (the basis for Game of Thrones) is another excellent choice, though be prepared for a much larger and more sprawling narrative.
If you're drawn to the monster-hunting aspect of The Witcher, check out the Rivers of London series by Ben Aaronovitch. These books blend urban fantasy with police procedural elements, featuring a constable who investigates supernatural crimes in London. For a more classic fantasy feel with a focus on adventure and magic, consider David Gemmell's works, particularly his Drenai series.
Ultimately, finding a book like The Witcher is about identifying what aspects of the series resonated most with you – the dark fantasy setting, the complex characters, the monster hunting, or the political intrigue – and then seeking out authors and series that offer similar elements in their own unique ways. Happy reading!