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57 pages 1 hour read

Blood of Elves

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1994

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Book Brief

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Andrzej Sapkowski, Transl. Danusia Stok

Blood of Elves

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1994
Book Details
Pages

398

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Continent • Medieval Fantasy World

Publication Year

1994

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Andrzej Sapkowski's Blood of Elves, Princess Ciri escapes the massacre of Cintra and is taken in by Geralt of Rivia, a witcher who once claimed her life through the "Law of Surprise." Geralt trains her at Kaer Morhen with other witchers, and they are later joined by the sorceress Triss Merigold. Meanwhile, growing political tensions and racial strife threaten the world, and various factions seek Ciri's life and destiny. The novel explores themes of identity, belonging, family, and racial tensions within a medieval-inspired fantasy setting with magic and warfare. The story includes references to torture, wartime violence, and genocide/ethnic cleansing.

Mysterious

Adventurous

Dark

Fantastical

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.3

247,610 ratings

80%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Blood of Elves by Andrzej Sapkowski, translated by Danusia Stok, is celebrated for its rich world-building and complex characters, especially the compelling protagonist Geralt. Critics praise its mix of action, political intrigue, and dark fantasy. However, some note a slower pace and dense narrative. Overall, a captivating entry in the Witcher series.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Blood of Elves?

Fans of epic fantasy who relish complex characters and intricate plots akin to J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings or George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire will find Blood of Elves by Andrzej Sapkowski, translated by Danusia Stok, a gripping read. Ideal for those who enjoy mature themes and morally gray heroes.

4.3

247,610 ratings

80%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Princess Cirilla “Ciri” of Cintra

Ciri is a young princess and the sole heir of Cintra, known for her innate magical abilities. She forms strong bonds with key characters and struggles to find her identity after the loss of her family and home.

Geralt is a witcher, a professional monster hunter with supernatural abilities, who becomes a father figure to Ciri. His destiny is intertwined with Ciri’s through a mystical bond known as the Law of Surprise.

Yennefer is a powerful and independent sorceress with strong ties to key characters, especially Ciri, whom she mentors. She has a complicated relationship with Geralt, marked by deep mutual feelings.

Triss is a mage who serves on King Foltest’s court and cares for Ciri like an older sister during her stay at Kaer Morhen. She is haunted by her experiences at the Battle of Sodden Hill.

Also known as Julian Alfred Pankratz, Viscount de Lettenhove, Dandelion is a bard famous for his ballads recounting Geralt's exploits. His storytelling skills and observations often put him and others in danger.

Rience is a dangerous mage who uses his powers to pursue Ciri and other key characters for his mysterious employer. Known for his ruthless behavior, he becomes a significant threat throughout the story.

Yarpen is a dwarf and former adventurer who leads a caravan through hostile territory. He shares a complex history with Geralt and embodies principles that highlight racial tensions in the world.

Nenneke is the stern yet caring high priestess at the Temple of Melitele, where she provides shelter and wisdom to Geralt and Ciri. She plays a key role in Ciri’s development.

Jarre is a young ward under Mother Nenneke’s care, known for his curiosity and interest in Ciri. His interactions with her spark Ciri’s contemplation of relationships and self-awareness.

Shani is a medical student from Oxenfurt Academy, with ties to both Dandelion and Geralt. She uses her skills and knowledge to aid them in their pursuit.

Vesemir, Lambert, Coën, and Eskel are witchers who live and train at Kaer Morhen. Each plays a role in training and protecting Ciri, offering her various skills and mentorship.

Sigismund Dijkstra and Philippa Eilhart are key figures in Redania’s intelligence network. They navigate political intrigue and are involved with various characters across the Northern Kingdoms.

The rulers King Henselt, King Foltest, King Demavend, King Vizimir, and Queen Meve hold significant political influence and impact the unfolding events across the Northern and Southern regions.

Prominent mages like Vilgefortz, Tissaia de Vries, Lydia van Bredevoort, and Artaud Terranova play critical roles in the realm’s magical and political landscape, often affecting key events and characters.

Book Details
Pages

398

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Continent • Medieval Fantasy World

Publication Year

1994

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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