10 Books Like The Witcher
Are you, like many, utterly enthralled by the world of The Witcher?
The nearly perfect blend of monster hunting, morally grey characters, and rich lore has left you yearning for more?
Well, the wait for books akin to the show is about to end.
Because we’re diving into some thrilling novels guaranteed to satiate your hunger for all things Witcher-esque.
So, prepare to be whisked away to fantastical realms teeming with magic, danger, and unforgettable heroes (and anti-heroes) in this epic exploration of books that will transport you straight back to the Continent…or somewhere just as enthralling!
Let’s go.
Books Like The Witcher
1. “A Song of Ice and Fire” by George R.R. Martin
“A Song of Ice and Fire” is an epic fantasy series that has captured the imagination of readers worldwide.
Set in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos, the series is known for its complex characters, intricate political plots, and a vast, detailed world with a rich history.
Magic, dragons, and other supernatural elements are subtly woven into the fabric of the story, creating a rich tapestry of intrigue and adventure.
Major Similarities:
Similar to “The Witcher,” “A Song of Ice and Fire” features a complex, morally gray world where the lines between good and evil are often blurred. Both series boast a vast, well-developed setting, with a rich history and lore that deeply influence the narrative.
The intricate political plots and the presence of magic and mythical creatures add to the similarities, providing a similar appeal to fans of “The Witcher.”
2. “The Malazan Book of the Fallen” by Steven Erikson
This epic fantasy series is renowned for its ambitious scope, complex storylines, and detailed world-building. Spanning ten volumes, it presents a universe filled with a wide array of characters, gods, and magical beings.
The narrative is known for its philosophical depth, military tactics, and the portrayal of a wide range of cultures and societies.
Major Similarities:
Like “The Witcher,” “The Malazan Book of the Fallen” series is set in a dark, complex world where morality is ambiguous, and characters must navigate through intricate plots and wars.
Both series share an emphasis on detailed world-building and lore, as well as a focus on magic and mythical creatures. The epic scale and the presence of a vast ensemble cast also draw parallels between the two.
3. “The First Law” by Joe Abercrombie
“The First Law” trilogy is set in a grimdark fantasy world where war, intrigue, and betrayal are commonplace.
The series is known for its realistic and deeply flawed characters, dark humor, and unexpected plot twists. Abercrombie’s world is brutal and unforgiving, featuring a diverse set of characters, including a barbarian warrior, a cunning nobleman, and a tortured inquisitor.
Major Similarities:
Both “The Witcher” and “The First Law” series are prime examples of the grimdark fantasy genre, where moral ambiguity and complex characters prevail.
The focus on dark, gritty realism and the exploration of themes such as power, corruption, and survival are common to both. Additionally, the intricate plot and character development resonate well with fans of “The Witcher.”
4. “The Kingkiller Chronicle” by Patrick Rothfuss
This series follows the life of Kvothe, a gifted young man who grows up to be the most notorious wizard his world has ever seen.
From his childhood in a troupe of traveling players to his years spent as a near-feral orphan in a crime-riddled city, to his daringly brazen yet successful bid to enter a legendary school of magic, Kvothe’s story is anything but simple.
Major Similarities:
“The Kingkiller Chronicle” and “The Witcher” both center on exceptionally talented protagonists with a mysterious past and a profound impact on the world.
The detailed world-building, including the history, cultures, and magic system, parallels the immersive experience found in “The Witcher.” Both series also excel in their storytelling, blending elements of traditional fantasy with a fresh and unique perspective.
5. “The Black Company” by Glen Cook
“The Black Company” series is a pioneer of the grimdark fantasy genre, focusing on a mercenary group known as the Black Company. The series is narrated from the perspective of the company’s physician and historian, Croaker, detailing their battles, moral dilemmas, and survival in a world filled with magic and dark gods.
The narrative is gritty, with a focus on the camaraderie among the mercenaries and their pragmatic approach to their situation.
Major Similarities:
Similar to “The Witcher,” “The Black Company” delves into the darker aspects of fantasy, presenting a world where the lines between good and evil are often indistinct. Both series feature a gritty, realistic approach to fantasy, emphasizing moral ambiguity and the complexity of characters and their choices.
The focus on a small group of characters against a backdrop of a larger conflict and the presence of magic and dark forces further align these series.
6. “Mistborn” by Brandon Sanderson
The “Mistborn” series is a cornerstone of modern fantasy, renowned for its unique magic system, where powers are derived from ingesting and “burning” metals to grant abilities.
Set in the dystopian world of Scadrial, the series initially focuses on a group of rebels plotting to overthrow a tyrannical ruler known as the Lord Ruler. The characters are richly developed, and the plot intertwines political intrigue with personal growth and epic battles.
Major Similarities:
Like “The Witcher,” “Mistborn” features a complex, well-thought-out world with a rich history and lore. The innovative magic system and the themes of rebellion against an oppressive regime resonate with the adventurous and darkly magical atmosphere of “The Witcher.”
Both series also share a focus on character development and the exploration of moral ambiguities within their characters’ actions.
7. “The Chronicles of Amber” by Roger Zelazny
“The Chronicles of Amber” is a series that blends fantasy, science fiction, and noir elements, set in two true worlds: Amber, the one real world, and Chaos, its antithesis, with countless “shadow” worlds, including Earth, in between.
The protagonist, Corwin, is a member of the royal family of Amber, and the series explores his adventures and battles for control of Amber.
Major Similarities:
Similar to “The Witcher,” “The Chronicles of Amber” features a protagonist with a complex identity and a deep connection to the politics and power struggles of his world.
The series’ exploration of parallel worlds and the blend of fantasy with other elements mirror “The Witcher’s” own blend of myth, magic, and reality. The intricate plot and the emphasis on family and political intrigue are also common threads.
8. “The Farseer Trilogy” by Robin Hobb
“The Farseer Trilogy” follows the life of FitzChivalry Farseer, a royal bastard and trained assassin in the kingdom of the Six Duchies. Fitz’s journey is marked by his struggle with his identity, loyalty, and the burden of his abilities, including a telepathic connection with animals and a magic known as the Skill.
The series is celebrated for its detailed character development and the deep emotional connections it fosters.
Major Similarities:
Both “The Witcher” and “The Farseer Trilogy” focus on a protagonist with unique abilities that set them apart from others in their world. The themes of political intrigue, the exploration of personal identity, and the protagonist’s complex relationships with those around them are central to both series.
Additionally, the rich world-building and the presence of magic and mythical creatures offer a similar appeal.
9. “The Wheel of Time” by Robert Jordan
“The Wheel of Time” is an expansive high fantasy series known for its vast world, complex magic system, and a diverse cast of characters.
The story centers on Rand al’Thor, a young farmer who discovers he is the reincarnation of a powerful figure prophesied to save or destroy the world. The series explores themes of destiny, the struggle between light and dark, and the complexity of human nature.
Major Similarities:
Like “The Witcher,” “The Wheel of Time” features a richly developed world with a detailed history and culture. The series’ complex magic system and the moral dilemmas faced by its characters echo the intricacies of “The Witcher’s” universe.
Both series involve epic quests and battles against dark forces, along with a deep exploration of destiny and choice.
10. “The Dresden Files” by Jim Butcher
“The Dresden Files” follows Harry Dresden, Chicago’s first (and only) Wizard P.I., as he solves crimes involving the supernatural. The series blends the modern world with fantasy, incorporating elements of magic, mythological creatures, and the paranormal.
Dresden’s narrative is filled with wit, dark humor, and a deep sense of humanity amidst the supernatural chaos.
Major Similarities:
Although set in a modern urban environment, “The Dresden Files” shares with “The Witcher” a protagonist who bridges the human and supernatural worlds, dealing with conflicts that often blur moral lines.
Both series feature a blend of detective work and fantasy elements, along with a protagonist who is deeply involved in the magical underbelly of the world.
The presence of an extensive cast of supernatural beings and the exploration of personal ethics in a world filled with grey areas are significant similarities.
