Reviews with content warning for Sexual assault - Baptism of Fire

Oh... my... God. So much happened in this that it left me reeling. I don't know how someone can write political discussions in a way that has me hanging on every word, but Andrzej Sapkowski did it. What he also did was wrench my heart out of my chest and stomp on it. I have never foamed at the mouth for that specific niche of found family where they get separated and have to find each other again, but I'm doing it now.

This book was nonstop. Which is crazy, because all they're really doing is just traveling, when we aren't following the political discussions of the Lodge or the Kings, but so much happens within that travel it gives you whiplash.

The character development in this was also pristine. Not so much for Dandelion, I don't think there's any hope for him changing, but for Geralt to change the way he has throughout these books is an amazing thing to read, and the same goes for Yennefer and Ciri. Especially Ciri, actually. We don't see much of her in this book, but what we do see is heartbreaking. I cannot wait to read the next book. This series has me in a chokehold.

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billyjepma's review against another edition

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adventurous funny medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

I’ve been in a bit of a reading slump and wanted something light and easy to help me shake myself out of it, and this fit the bill. I enjoy the hell out of these books, even if that enjoyment includes a decent pile of caveats. Sapkowski isn’t the greatest writer, nor is the content of his writing unquestionable (just look at the content warning at the bottom 🙃). But other than that, the actual story and characters represent something pretty damn close to the platonic ideal of fantasy adventure for me. Swashbuckling action, dry humor, lots of lore, a side of politics, and a badass protagonist who is also an idiot—what more could you want?

This is a nice continuation for the series, too, even if it does march in place narratively. There’s very little new ground covered, and you can feel the gap left by the temporary sidelining of Yennefer and Ciri. But the books are also best when Geralt is front and center, as he’s the character Sapkowski’s dry, sarcastic voice is most suited for. It’s nice seeing Geralt develop a little as a leader, as he (very begrudgingly and with plenty of angst) develops camaraderie with some new allies who perfectly fit the vibe of the series.

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