For fans of The Witcher, there’s thrilling news on the horizon. While you await the show’s return to Netflix, get ready for the upcoming release of Crossroads of Ravens, the first new Witcher novel from Andrzej Sapkowski in over ten years. Set to launch globally on September 30, this highly anticipated book will be available in various languages, with the English version expertly translated by David French. Today, we’re excited to share an exclusive excerpt to give you a sneak peek into this standalone narrative.
This captivating story brings you back to a defining moment in the life of Geralt of Rivia. Before he earned his notorious titles, he was simply a new graduate from Kaer Morhen, navigating a world that was hostile to his kind. A fateful act of heroism leads Geralt to the brink of disaster, but salvation comes from a grizzled witcher named Preston Holt, who has his own motives for helping.
As Geralt learns what it truly means to walk the Path, he must grapple with the blurred lines between good and evil, confronting the potential to become the very monster the world fears. This is a tale about the cost of legends—both their creation and their consequences.
Read on to discover an exclusive excerpt from Crossroads of Ravens, featuring Geralt’s fortuitous encounter with Preston Holt, a mysterious witcher who will change his future forever.
Kaedwen is infamous for its unpredictable climate. Nestled between the Dragon Mountains to the north and the Blue Mountains to the east, it experiences harsh winters, chilly springs, and sporadic summer rain. In March, known as “Birke” to elves, remnants of snow still linger in shady spots, while icy patches stubbornly cling to puddles. Although the sun offers some warmth, the biting winds speak of winter’s lingering grip.
Setting off from Kaer Morhen the day before the Equinox is a witcher’s custom. After the winter, monsters are hungrier and people are more inclined to seek a witcher’s help. Yet, Geralt’s new journey quickly turns chaotic. Just a two-day ride from the mountains, he’s embroiled in a misunderstanding, nearly facing lynching due to marauders. His salvation comes from the enigmatic Preston Holt, who, sensing the danger, has come to his aid.
“I recommend we travel together for a while,” Preston suggests, turning in his saddle. “Captain Carleton has it out for you, and riding alone makes you an easy target.”
“That sounds fine,” Geralt replies, nudging his mare closer. “I’m grateful you’re here.”
Preston’s expertise is evident as he confirms his awareness of Geralt’s reputation. “I’ve kept my ear to the ground. Word travels fast in our circles. You are the one who has just completed training at Kaer Morhen.”
As they ride side by side, Preston subtly assesses Geralt’s skills, offering praise for his handling of the marauder encounter. “Your execution was indeed precise, albeit a bit brash,” he notes.
Observing their surroundings, Holt comments on the season’s shift: “Cattle are being driven to pasture; that marks the beginning of work for witchers. Let’s head to the birchwood near the opening of the sough.”
Curiously, Geralt asks about the sough. “What’s that?”
“A tunnel once used to drain a mine, leading to treasure and dangers alike,” Preston explains, highlighting the rich yet depleted resources of the Upper March. “It once yielded silver and precious ores, but be cautious; it’s now occupied by cynocephaly.”
“Cynocephaly are dangerous creatures, aren’t they?” Geralt recalls. “They can be lethal in groups.”
“Indeed, they pose a significant threat to any who venture into their territory,” Holt warns, as they approach a camp of miners. Initially met with hostility, the demeanor of the diggers quickly shifts to relief upon recognizing the witcher.
“Thank the gods! It’s the witcher! We need your help; a boy has been taken!” cries the chief digger. “We’ve heard stories and hoped you’d come.”
Preston, unfazed, prepares to step in despite his own physical constraints. “I warned you to avoid the shaft. If the boy is gone, we may be too late.”
This impending challenge is Geralt’s first extreme test after training, leading to layers of tension, responsibility, and the stark realities of his new profession.
Crossroads of Ravens releases on September 30, and you can pre-order your copy now.
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