Book Review: The Last Wish by Andrzej Sapkowski

 

 

After what feels like the longest non-reading period, I am finally back in the reading swing of things. I am still not managing more than 2 books a month, but that is a much welcomed improvement after only reading one book in 4 months!

I have had this book in the back of my mind ever since I saw a friend of mine play The Witcher a few months ago on the ps4 and falling in love with the characters and the story line. I knew that for a game to have such a realistic world with so much depth and character development, it must have originated from some sort of literature. I was indeed correct, as The Witcher is based on a series of novels by polish author Andrzej Sapkowski. His novels have always intrigued me as they are showcased in most Waterstones (book store chain in the UK)  that I have gone into and it seems to be a well known series by a lot of bloggers out there. Obviously now it all makes sense and can clearly understand the hype!!

I’ve started with this book in particular rather than the first actual book in the series (Blood of Elves) as it was recommended by a few people online that the best way to read it is in chronological order, according to when the events took place. So that is what I did. As this is my first book, I can’t comment if this is the correct way or not of doing this.

The Last Wish is a collection of short stories, revolving around Geralt, who is a witcher. The book introduces a lot of the main characters and really sets the pace for the other instalments. It does an amazing job at keeping the reader intrigued as the stories are short but action packed with some sort of moral teaching at its core. The author is also able to introduce the actual world they live in, and explain in depth certain towns which I remember seeing in the video game. As far as I can see, this book takes place many years before The Witcher era, so there shouldn’t be any spoilers for all of you gamers.

As the book is a collection of short stories, it is not only easy to read and follow, but you will find yourself finishing it pretty quick. I do think that the stories are indeed a bit brief and certain characters need a lot more developing  and ‘page time’ but I am sure this will be continued in the second book of short stories.

If you are someone who is wanting to delve into medieval fantasy, but are intimidated by A Song of Ice and Fire ( the novels behind Game of Thrones) then I would definitely recommend this little gem.