The Time of Contempt by Andrzej Sapkowski

The Time of Contempt (The Witcher, #2)

by Andrzej Sapkowski

Geralt the Witcher has fought monsters and demons across the land, but even he may not be prepared for what is happening to his world. The kings and armies are maneuvering for position, each fearing invasion from across the river, each fearing their neighbours more. Intrigue, dissent and rebellion are on all sides. The Elves and other non-humans are still suffering under decades of repression, and growing numbers join the commando units hidden deep in the forest, striking at will and then dissolving into the trees. The Magicians are fighting amongst themselves, some in the pay of the kings, some sympathetic to the elves. And against this backdrop of fear and contempt Geralt and his lover Yennefer must protect Ciri, orphaned heir and sought by all sides. For the prophecy rests on her, and whether she lives or dies she has the power to save the world - or perhaps end it.

Reviewed by kimbacaffeinate on

4 of 5 stars

Share
This was an engaging second novel as the author introduced minor characters and the politics that is war. Geralt is finding it hard to keep his truth north and to remain neutral.

We get to know Ceri more in the Time of Contempt. She is stubborn and her seer abilities are growing. She wants to be with Geralt and train with him. Like a child she doesn’t understand the dangers. Ceri faces many trials and begins to shape her own future.

This installment brings more magic, battles, political intrigue, and danger as the story focuses on Ceri. The child of Destiny. The lioness cub.

Sapkowski has created a world that enthralls me, and Ceri’s time in the desert, the monsters and the gang she encounters kept me up listening. This is where I wish I could unfurl a map in my head and connect places. The author does a fantastic job bringing everything to life and has me craving more.

Peter Kenny is brilliant in his narration of this series. From his voices to his ability to enhance the suspenseful moments. His repertoire of voices astounds me.

The ending has me wanting to dive into the Baptism of Fire, the third audiobook. With a title like that, I am expecting things to be tense! This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer

Last modified on

Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 2 February, 2020: Finished reading
  • 2 February, 2020: Reviewed