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The Horus Heresy #3
Galaxy in Flames
The third novel in the bestselling Horus Heresy series, re-issued in a deluxe trade paperback format
Having recovered from his grievous injuries, Warmaster Horus leads the triumphant Imperial forces against the rebel world of Isstvan III. Though the rebels are swiftly crushed, Horus's treachery is finally revealed when the planet is razed by virus bombs and Space Marines turn on their battle-brothers in the most bitter struggle imaginable.
Having recovered from his grievous injuries, Warmaster Horus leads the triumphant Imperial forces against the rebel world of Isstvan III. Though the rebels are swiftly crushed, Horus's treachery is finally revealed when the planet is razed by virus bombs and Space Marines turn on their battle-brothers in the most bitter struggle imaginable.
416 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2006
1088 people are currently reading
4145 people want to read
About the author
Ben Counter
158 books211 followersBen Counter, as well as making several contributions to Inferno magazine, has written the Soul Drinkers and Grey Knights series and two Horus Heresy novels for the Black Library. He is an ancient history graduate and avid miniature painter with a bronze demon under his belt.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,110 reviews
September 4, 2019
The opening trilogy of the Horus Heresy saga ends with a blast, as the fall from grace of the Warmaster is complete and the setting turns for good in the grim and bleak one trademark of Warhammer 40000 universe.
The battle of Istvan III is a long one, longer than all the ones in the previous 2 books packed together, an epic and bloody tale of death and betrayal like an ancient greek tragedy.
The ending is one of the bleakest ever and when you finish the novel you just can't wait to read the following ones.
The heresy is revealed and nothing will be the same again.
Let the galaxy burn.
April 5, 2019
The one-year time gap before this book must be one of the most unfortunate narrative choices in the sci-fi genre.
False Gods did an excellent job of characterisation, and set the Warmaster Horus on his path. From a shining paragon of virtue, he was subverted into a man in doubt. A general doubting both the loyalty of his army and his own loyalty to his superior, to his brothers and to his principles. With the jump to Galaxy in Flames he has become pure evil. A deceitful, murderous tyrant with few redeeming qualities, who is now an excellent villain, but hey, this all went way too quickly. Character development can be a beautiful, artistic thing. Not something to just skip over.
Ben Counter seems to get an undeservedly bad rap for this. I found his writing to be just about as good as Abnett's or McNeill's and some of his battle scenes were exceedingly well-crafted. I also don't think he is to blame for the glaring weakness of this book. That seems to be to be more an issue with the overall direction of the series, and the task he was set to fulfil.
All that being said, the storyline is not bad. The Battle of Isstvan III is quite excellent, and I am excited to see where the series is going next, especially with some different POVs.
Now at least there is no doubt in my mind when I say: For the Emperor!
False Gods did an excellent job of characterisation, and set the Warmaster Horus on his path. From a shining paragon of virtue, he was subverted into a man in doubt. A general doubting both the loyalty of his army and his own loyalty to his superior, to his brothers and to his principles. With the jump to Galaxy in Flames he has become pure evil. A deceitful, murderous tyrant with few redeeming qualities, who is now an excellent villain, but hey, this all went way too quickly. Character development can be a beautiful, artistic thing. Not something to just skip over.
Ben Counter seems to get an undeservedly bad rap for this. I found his writing to be just about as good as Abnett's or McNeill's and some of his battle scenes were exceedingly well-crafted. I also don't think he is to blame for the glaring weakness of this book. That seems to be to be more an issue with the overall direction of the series, and the task he was set to fulfil.
All that being said, the storyline is not bad. The Battle of Isstvan III is quite excellent, and I am excited to see where the series is going next, especially with some different POVs.
Now at least there is no doubt in my mind when I say: For the Emperor!
June 6, 2025
Infine l' ombra si palesa.
Horus, ferito, svela il suo vero volto.
La grande Crociata si spezza, e il tradimento avvelena ogni legame.
Fratelli contro fratelli, un orrendo massacro.
"Galassia in fiamme" non è una lettura che ti fa sognare, anzi, ti prende a pugni e ti sbatte in faccia la cruda realtà di quel che è successo sul pianeta Istvaan III.
Counter riesce a farti sentire quel senso di disperazione e smarrimento. Non è solo una battaglia, è la fine di un'era, la rottura di un legame che sembrava indissolubile.
Certo, a volte le motivazioni del tradimento mi sono sembrate un po' affrettate, quasi che non ci fosse abbastanza spazio per approfondire la psicologia dietro una caduta così monumentale. Però, al di là di questo, l'atmosfera è pazzesca. Senti il peso dell'orrore, la polvere e il sangue di un conflitto che non ha vincitori, solo sopravvissuti (e non tutti fortunati, a dirla tutta).
Ti fa capire che la vera tragedia non è solo la guerra, ma la distruzione della fiducia e l'inizio dell'oscurità.
Prima trilogia da applausi
----------------------------------
Finally the shadow reveals itself.
Horus, wounded, reveals his true face.
The great Crusade breaks, and betrayal poisons every bond.
Brothers against brothers, a horrendous massacre.
"Galaxy in Flames" is not a reading that makes you dream, on the contrary, it punches you and throws you in the face with the harsh reality of what happened on the planet Istvaan III.
Counter manages to make you feel that sense of desperation and loss. It is not just a battle, it is the end of an era, the breaking of a bond that seemed indissoluble.
Of course, sometimes the reasons for the betrayal seemed a bit rushed, almost as if there was not enough space to delve into the psychology behind such a monumental fall. However, beyond this, the atmosphere is crazy. You feel the weight of the horror, the dust and the blood of a conflict that has no winners, only survivors (and not all lucky, to be honest).
It makes you realize that the real tragedy is not just the war, but the destruction of trust and the beginning of darkness.
First trilogy to applaud
Horus, ferito, svela il suo vero volto.
La grande Crociata si spezza, e il tradimento avvelena ogni legame.
Fratelli contro fratelli, un orrendo massacro.
"Galassia in fiamme" non è una lettura che ti fa sognare, anzi, ti prende a pugni e ti sbatte in faccia la cruda realtà di quel che è successo sul pianeta Istvaan III.
Counter riesce a farti sentire quel senso di disperazione e smarrimento. Non è solo una battaglia, è la fine di un'era, la rottura di un legame che sembrava indissolubile.
Certo, a volte le motivazioni del tradimento mi sono sembrate un po' affrettate, quasi che non ci fosse abbastanza spazio per approfondire la psicologia dietro una caduta così monumentale. Però, al di là di questo, l'atmosfera è pazzesca. Senti il peso dell'orrore, la polvere e il sangue di un conflitto che non ha vincitori, solo sopravvissuti (e non tutti fortunati, a dirla tutta).
Ti fa capire che la vera tragedia non è solo la guerra, ma la distruzione della fiducia e l'inizio dell'oscurità.
Prima trilogia da applausi
----------------------------------
Finally the shadow reveals itself.
Horus, wounded, reveals his true face.
The great Crusade breaks, and betrayal poisons every bond.
Brothers against brothers, a horrendous massacre.
"Galaxy in Flames" is not a reading that makes you dream, on the contrary, it punches you and throws you in the face with the harsh reality of what happened on the planet Istvaan III.
Counter manages to make you feel that sense of desperation and loss. It is not just a battle, it is the end of an era, the breaking of a bond that seemed indissoluble.
Of course, sometimes the reasons for the betrayal seemed a bit rushed, almost as if there was not enough space to delve into the psychology behind such a monumental fall. However, beyond this, the atmosphere is crazy. You feel the weight of the horror, the dust and the blood of a conflict that has no winners, only survivors (and not all lucky, to be honest).
It makes you realize that the real tragedy is not just the war, but the destruction of trust and the beginning of darkness.
First trilogy to applaud
December 31, 2019
This was the weakest written of the twelve or so Warhammer books I have now read, but damn the story was intense. The last fifty percent was non-stop action and treachery and blood and guts but I can't help but think that with a little more polished author the emotional aspect could have been more impactful. This was a little more textbookish in its delivery than the other books and it felt as if I was being lectured as to what happened as opposed to living through the events, which is how the other books made me feel. Still though these books are so much better than I had expected and the scope just keeps getting bigger and bigger and story more and more entertaining. Minor characters are brought front and center and given larger roles and ones I had come to love are unfortunately no longer with us, it is the Horus Heresy after all, and rebellions have consequences. One of my only issues is with some of the dialogue, some of the things some of the characters say just doesn't seem to fit who they were or how the talked in earlier books. In fact some of the lines were straight cheesy and downright cringe-worthy. But all that is almost forgotten and somewhat forgiven when the talking finally stops and the action gets rolling. I give this 4.5 rounded up because even though some of the lines didn't fit, overall it was still an amazing read.
January 31, 2023
3.5-stars for this.
There was nothing wrong with the story at all, but I have marked it down because I found a lot of typo errors in this book and that was in a paperback copy!
Other than those errors I think this was the most expansive of the series so far, and it had the best action sequences. The effects of the Warp really show in the actions of those that have been tainted.
I can't say that I was surprised by any of the betrayals, but I was surprised by the naivety of some of those that didn't guess who had been tainted.
I look forward to reading the next book; The Flight of the Eisenstein.
Thanks for reading.
There was nothing wrong with the story at all, but I have marked it down because I found a lot of typo errors in this book and that was in a paperback copy!
Other than those errors I think this was the most expansive of the series so far, and it had the best action sequences. The effects of the Warp really show in the actions of those that have been tainted.
I can't say that I was surprised by any of the betrayals, but I was surprised by the naivety of some of those that didn't guess who had been tainted.
I look forward to reading the next book; The Flight of the Eisenstein.
Thanks for reading.
August 15, 2021
The third and final book of the Horus Heresy trilogy signals the start of the Galactic Civil War. After the events on Davin, Horus has fallen to Chaos. He has converted some of his brothers and now they will have to cull the Loyalists for their own legions.
This third book is not only dark but also poignant. Quite a few characters you are familiar with will meet their ends, while others begin their ascension to fame and infamy. In time names like Kharn, Lucius, Abbadon, and Garro will be known at the very top of the Imperium.
At Istvaan III the Death Guard, Emperor's Children, Sons of Horus, and World Eaters send 1/3 of their legions that are suspected of being Loyalists to the surface. There they are betrayed and assaulted by their own brothers. This is the tale of the fall of those legions to Chaos.
But it is also a story of heroism, bravery, and loyalty as the last of the Loyalist members of those soon to be infamous legions, fight for their Emperor and the ideals that they believe in. Beyond the simple conflict, there is the spiritual side as well. Chaos is real and we also see the rise of the Imperial Faith and the miraculous powers of those who believe in a God-Emperor.
A great novel. It shows what could have been and then near the end, in the scenes of devastation and loss, a hint of what is to lay in store for the future of the Imperium.
This third book is not only dark but also poignant. Quite a few characters you are familiar with will meet their ends, while others begin their ascension to fame and infamy. In time names like Kharn, Lucius, Abbadon, and Garro will be known at the very top of the Imperium.
At Istvaan III the Death Guard, Emperor's Children, Sons of Horus, and World Eaters send 1/3 of their legions that are suspected of being Loyalists to the surface. There they are betrayed and assaulted by their own brothers. This is the tale of the fall of those legions to Chaos.
But it is also a story of heroism, bravery, and loyalty as the last of the Loyalist members of those soon to be infamous legions, fight for their Emperor and the ideals that they believe in. Beyond the simple conflict, there is the spiritual side as well. Chaos is real and we also see the rise of the Imperial Faith and the miraculous powers of those who believe in a God-Emperor.
A great novel. It shows what could have been and then near the end, in the scenes of devastation and loss, a hint of what is to lay in store for the future of the Imperium.
July 14, 2010
This is the final book in the opening trilogy of the Horus Heresy, following Horus Rising by Dan Abnett and False Gods by Graham McNeill. It picks up a year on from the events of False Gods. The Heresy moves on apace, as Horus plots to destroy all those who oppose his plans to usurp the Emperor. The rebel planet of Isstvan III will provide the arena as brother fights brother, and the full horror of Horus' intentions is realised.
I gave the previous two books very favourable reviews, and I wanted to like this one - I really did! At some points - where the events took on a momentum that managed to disguise the poor writing - it actually became readable, but I would say a good two-thirds of this book were fairly dull. This is disappointing when considering the wonderful job done by Dan Abnett in opening the series and then Graham McNeill in sowing the seeds of the betrayal.
I think part of the problem might have been because Counter was constrained by prior books. He had a start point (where McNeill left off) and a definite end point - and little choice in how he represented the events in between. This must be hard for an author, so I do sympathise; and yet McNeill managed with aplomb - taking Abnett's original template and adding in enough of his own voice to create a decent work of his own.
I found Counter's writing very pedestrian - a little too much of a 'this happened then this happened' approach.
I was also disappointed with the manner in which Counter treated the characters that have become beloved over two books. Loken was built up by Abnett and then McNeill to be a conflicted soul - tortured at the idea that his brothers are being taken over by the power of the warp; starting to hear 'the music of the spheres'; but here his character development was limited. A couple of the Primarchs suffered from bit parts - especially Angron. He is supposed to be an unbelievable killing machine, a juggernaut of devastation, and yet some of the Luna Wolves manage to drive him off - I would have liked to read about the way they achieved this against the most warlike of the Primarchs.
Conversely, some of the characters shone in this who had been overlooked in previous books. The Half-Heard steps up to the plate, and I look forward to reading more about him in future books, and Tarvitz ended up being my favourite and most memorable, because of his honour and ability to stand up to those who seek to betray him.
There are a few glaring inconsistencies that might have been picked up by editing, such as when the remaining citizens of Isstvan III were destroyed by the fire storm - despite the fact that virus bombs were supposed to completely decimate the planet.
I think the biggest issue with Counter's writing is also, bizarrely, one of his strengths - this is the fact that he flits from POV to POV without remaining more than a few pages with one character. It means that it is a struggle to immerse yourself with each of the characters, but that pages just flit past without you realising. I was over a hundred pages through before I knew it. It also makes it damnably hard to put the book down.
Despite all the issues with the writing and characterisation, the last third of the book really picks up its pace and the end of it - even though it is signposted - still comes as a shock. I was left feeling extremely sad, and I want to hurry on to the next book. I'm aware that the next books in the Horus Heresy series will now pick on small events and highlight specific Legions rather than covering the overall arc as these first three have done. I'm looking forward to being able to dwell with a limited cast list, rather than hurtling across planets and Legions in a breathless fashion!
My overall summary of this book is therefore: pedestrian writing explodes into life for the last third and leaves me still wanting to read the Horus Heresy. I wouldn't recommend for those who hadn't already read the first two; it's definitely not standalone.
I gave the previous two books very favourable reviews, and I wanted to like this one - I really did! At some points - where the events took on a momentum that managed to disguise the poor writing - it actually became readable, but I would say a good two-thirds of this book were fairly dull. This is disappointing when considering the wonderful job done by Dan Abnett in opening the series and then Graham McNeill in sowing the seeds of the betrayal.
I think part of the problem might have been because Counter was constrained by prior books. He had a start point (where McNeill left off) and a definite end point - and little choice in how he represented the events in between. This must be hard for an author, so I do sympathise; and yet McNeill managed with aplomb - taking Abnett's original template and adding in enough of his own voice to create a decent work of his own.
I found Counter's writing very pedestrian - a little too much of a 'this happened then this happened' approach.
I was also disappointed with the manner in which Counter treated the characters that have become beloved over two books. Loken was built up by Abnett and then McNeill to be a conflicted soul - tortured at the idea that his brothers are being taken over by the power of the warp; starting to hear 'the music of the spheres'; but here his character development was limited. A couple of the Primarchs suffered from bit parts - especially Angron. He is supposed to be an unbelievable killing machine, a juggernaut of devastation, and yet some of the Luna Wolves manage to drive him off - I would have liked to read about the way they achieved this against the most warlike of the Primarchs.
Conversely, some of the characters shone in this who had been overlooked in previous books. The Half-Heard steps up to the plate, and I look forward to reading more about him in future books, and Tarvitz ended up being my favourite and most memorable, because of his honour and ability to stand up to those who seek to betray him.
There are a few glaring inconsistencies that might have been picked up by editing, such as when the remaining citizens of Isstvan III were destroyed by the fire storm - despite the fact that virus bombs were supposed to completely decimate the planet.
I think the biggest issue with Counter's writing is also, bizarrely, one of his strengths - this is the fact that he flits from POV to POV without remaining more than a few pages with one character. It means that it is a struggle to immerse yourself with each of the characters, but that pages just flit past without you realising. I was over a hundred pages through before I knew it. It also makes it damnably hard to put the book down.
Despite all the issues with the writing and characterisation, the last third of the book really picks up its pace and the end of it - even though it is signposted - still comes as a shock. I was left feeling extremely sad, and I want to hurry on to the next book. I'm aware that the next books in the Horus Heresy series will now pick on small events and highlight specific Legions rather than covering the overall arc as these first three have done. I'm looking forward to being able to dwell with a limited cast list, rather than hurtling across planets and Legions in a breathless fashion!
My overall summary of this book is therefore: pedestrian writing explodes into life for the last third and leaves me still wanting to read the Horus Heresy. I wouldn't recommend for those who hadn't already read the first two; it's definitely not standalone.
April 14, 2021
Atrocious writing. I suppose this was to be expected at some point in a series where every book is penned by a different author.
If you are curious about the sprawling The Horus Heresy® series but aren't ready to commit to reading 50+ books of OTT splatterpunk and corny jarhead machismo, this is a good place to stop. It neatly wraps up the story develoepd throughout the first two books. It looks like from this point on the story is going to spread in myriad directions only diehard nerds will care about.
I fell in love with this ridiculous universe in the first book, Horus Rising. Dan Abnett is a talented writer and he went above and beyond what anyone has a right to expect from a cynical cashgrab book series based on collectible RPG figures.
If I can be allowed to liberally compare the three authors I have read so far to the three little pigs, the first one built a house of character development. The second one built a house of gore. The third one built a house of clichés. Remove every single cliché from this book and you'll be ruthlessly exposed to the cold winds of poor inspiration.
It's been a fun ride. Hey, I might even continue. Now I need a break.
If you are curious about the sprawling The Horus Heresy® series but aren't ready to commit to reading 50+ books of OTT splatterpunk and corny jarhead machismo, this is a good place to stop. It neatly wraps up the story develoepd throughout the first two books. It looks like from this point on the story is going to spread in myriad directions only diehard nerds will care about.
I fell in love with this ridiculous universe in the first book, Horus Rising. Dan Abnett is a talented writer and he went above and beyond what anyone has a right to expect from a cynical cashgrab book series based on collectible RPG figures.
If I can be allowed to liberally compare the three authors I have read so far to the three little pigs, the first one built a house of character development. The second one built a house of gore. The third one built a house of clichés. Remove every single cliché from this book and you'll be ruthlessly exposed to the cold winds of poor inspiration.
It's been a fun ride. Hey, I might even continue. Now I need a break.
October 4, 2025
The third book of the Horus Heresy served to cast down the gauntlet as Horus makes his play. We knew from the last installment that Horus intends to depose of the Emperor and rule humanity, but here he makes his first move. After the brutal battle with the so-called Technocracy, Horus leads four legions to yet another planet that used to be compliant. Why summon so many legions to put down a rebellion? Well, lets say Horus has a plan!
While Counter gives us some intrigue, especially with the 'saint', a former rememberer, and the mixed loyalty of the crew (Emperor or Horus), most of this exists as a lead into the battle that will take place on the planet. Horus knows of the divided loyalty of many of the crew and his soldiers; the Crusade was launched to unite humanity under the Emperor and bring secular learning galaxy wide. A new cult, however, has arisen, proclaiming the Emperor to be a God. The fantasy elements of the story reside in the warp, the odd temporal medium of warp space itself. Apparently, 'things' live in the warp and something the Emperor is doing is disturbing them. So, some of these 'things' ally with Horus to give him the power to depose the Emperor.
I can see why this series runs for dozens and dozens of sequels. We have already been introduced to several legions of warriors, the loci of the Crusades, and we know that not all of them will sign up for Horus. We also know the Empire will strike back! Fun stuff, and quite macho for sure, but for what it is, in all its pulpy goodness, the series works. 3.5 stars, rounding up!!
While Counter gives us some intrigue, especially with the 'saint', a former rememberer, and the mixed loyalty of the crew (Emperor or Horus), most of this exists as a lead into the battle that will take place on the planet. Horus knows of the divided loyalty of many of the crew and his soldiers; the Crusade was launched to unite humanity under the Emperor and bring secular learning galaxy wide. A new cult, however, has arisen, proclaiming the Emperor to be a God. The fantasy elements of the story reside in the warp, the odd temporal medium of warp space itself. Apparently, 'things' live in the warp and something the Emperor is doing is disturbing them. So, some of these 'things' ally with Horus to give him the power to depose the Emperor.
I can see why this series runs for dozens and dozens of sequels. We have already been introduced to several legions of warriors, the loci of the Crusades, and we know that not all of them will sign up for Horus. We also know the Empire will strike back! Fun stuff, and quite macho for sure, but for what it is, in all its pulpy goodness, the series works. 3.5 stars, rounding up!!
June 15, 2025
This was shorter than he previous installments and I'm so grateful for it because I don't think I could have taken it any longer. What heartbreak!
After Horus has fallen to Chaos once and for all, he plans on removing his father, the Emperor of Mankind, believing that is best for humanity. In order to be able to do that, he needs to move on Terra itself but he can only do THAT if everyone in his force is on board - which they aren't. Many are loyal and that needs to be ... remedied. *sighs*
Part 1 of this book has us with Keeler as she is still unconscious / comatose / catatonic or whatever you wanna call it from sending that accidentally summoned demon back where it belonged in the previous book (what a badass she is). While she's playing Sleeping Beauty, she's actually hailed as a saint - which Horus definitely can't have. Luckily, Sindermann (the other, older, Remembrancer/Iterator) is warned and can organize some good people helping them (I mean, they are on Horus' ship hurtling through space somewhere in the Isstvan system so it's a game of hide-and-seek, at least for now).
Interestingly, when an assassin comes a-knocking. *lol*
Meanwhile, the first shots are fired against the supposed rebels on Isstvan III.
Part 2 shows that there is a reason the fighting force chosen to terminate the "rebellion" is comprised of Space Marines from all involved Legions - and it's not good. But how to help? Seriously, I was impressed by Tarvitz as I had not foreseen him becoming such an important character!
So while the deployed forces are trying to reach their respective targets, Tarvitz . And as if hadn't been bad enough, there is also ! This, right there, had me being glad I didn't hold a physical copy of the book because I'm not sure I wouldn't have either thrown it against a wall or accidentally damaged it by sweating the paper into nothingness from all the stress and suspense. Interestingly, I almost found it more sad when . Good thing and even better that it was only possible by ! Ha!
Part 3, then, is the culmination, the most important event of which is not the wiping out of ... well, everything ... but the two duels. OK, there was also the valiant fight of Tarvitz and the loyalists under his command. Don't get me started on Eidolon or, in fact, Lucius. *gnashes teeth* Moreover, it's not like stood much of a chance since were hopelessly outclassed.
That so much of the events took the turns they did because two to three guys were more interested in their personal advancement than being good people is what eats at me the most. Particularly when you consider that was happy to just having caused so much damage / loss to the traitors and to having bought (hopefully) enough time for word to reach Terra so Horus' planned surprise attack won't happen. I knew there would be no happy end, but it was still tough to read all this.
Oh, sure, I know that but that is not much of a consolation. :/
And now, the Galaxy really is in flames or will be soon enough.
The narration of the audiobook was very nice once again - the voice just fits with both the characters and events. Moreover, I'm still pleasantly surprised at how well the books work with one another considering the different authors at work!
After Horus has fallen to Chaos once and for all, he plans on removing his father, the Emperor of Mankind, believing that is best for humanity. In order to be able to do that, he needs to move on Terra itself but he can only do THAT if everyone in his force is on board - which they aren't. Many are loyal and that needs to be ... remedied. *sighs*
Part 1 of this book has us with Keeler as she is still unconscious / comatose / catatonic or whatever you wanna call it from sending that accidentally summoned demon back where it belonged in the previous book (what a badass she is). While she's playing Sleeping Beauty, she's actually hailed as a saint - which Horus definitely can't have. Luckily, Sindermann (the other, older, Remembrancer/Iterator) is warned and can organize some good people helping them (I mean, they are on Horus' ship hurtling through space somewhere in the Isstvan system so it's a game of hide-and-seek, at least for now).
Interestingly, when an assassin comes a-knocking. *lol*
Meanwhile, the first shots are fired against the supposed rebels on Isstvan III.
Part 2 shows that there is a reason the fighting force chosen to terminate the "rebellion" is comprised of Space Marines from all involved Legions - and it's not good. But how to help? Seriously, I was impressed by Tarvitz as I had not foreseen him becoming such an important character!
So while the deployed forces are trying to reach their respective targets, Tarvitz . And as if hadn't been bad enough, there is also ! This, right there, had me being glad I didn't hold a physical copy of the book because I'm not sure I wouldn't have either thrown it against a wall or accidentally damaged it by sweating the paper into nothingness from all the stress and suspense. Interestingly, I almost found it more sad when . Good thing and even better that it was only possible by ! Ha!
Part 3, then, is the culmination, the most important event of which is not the wiping out of ... well, everything ... but the two duels. OK, there was also the valiant fight of Tarvitz and the loyalists under his command. Don't get me started on Eidolon or, in fact, Lucius. *gnashes teeth* Moreover, it's not like stood much of a chance since were hopelessly outclassed.
That so much of the events took the turns they did because two to three guys were more interested in their personal advancement than being good people is what eats at me the most. Particularly when you consider that was happy to just having caused so much damage / loss to the traitors and to having bought (hopefully) enough time for word to reach Terra so Horus' planned surprise attack won't happen. I knew there would be no happy end, but it was still tough to read all this.
Oh, sure, I know that but that is not much of a consolation. :/
And now, the Galaxy really is in flames or will be soon enough.
The narration of the audiobook was very nice once again - the voice just fits with both the characters and events. Moreover, I'm still pleasantly surprised at how well the books work with one another considering the different authors at work!
February 11, 2018
A disappointing conclusion to the Horus Heresy trilogy. Characterization has gone flat. Favorite characters have been pushed into the background. Prose is too pedestrian, YA'ish. The storyline has devolved into unbelievable, rather absurd. The first two books were awesome. I'm moving on to Dan Abnett's Gaunt's Ghosts.
April 1, 2015
Oh yeah.
This was the best HH novel yet, gory, action-packed, epic and dramatic. The darkest parts were the best!
This was the best HH novel yet, gory, action-packed, epic and dramatic. The darkest parts were the best!
June 13, 2014
"So much death, for one man's dream - it's the dreamers that kill us in the end!"
I did say I'd comment on the illustrations for the premium hardbacks, so here goes. Again, very cartoonish, not even graphic novel-worthy. One image is OK, that of Loken engaging Abaddon - but other than that. Well best not mentioned really.
Galaxy In Flames is the conclusion to the grandiose opening trilogy of The Horus Heresy and what a butcher's bill there is. Ben Counter, I'm a big fan of his writing. He is also a fellow Ancient History graduate, not that I'm biased. He has written some great tales, from The Soul Drinkers series to the Grey Knights trilogy. The book literally follows straight on from False Gods - Istvaan III has rebelled against the glorious illumination of the Imperium "those blighters" *shakes fist at them*. All this is really a excuse for the Warmaster aka Horus to rid himself of some Loyalist within the Legion's ranks - that being; The Emperor's Children, The World Eaters, Death Guard and Sons of Horus aka Luna Wolves. You can't pick your family. Family scrooble, it is something that happens in real life. This is no different, a son wanting to take the place of the alpha-male, that being his father. Time doesn't really change who we are and what we want, huh.
Captain Garvial Loken and Tarik Torgaddon, Loyalists or fools? The two try to piece together what is happening to the Legion, but all a bit too late. Horus has now been supplanted by forces beyond his understanding - the allies/Traitors who are taking arms against the Emperor begin to form. Istavaan III needs to be purged, a speartip is sent down. Unbeknownst to those who are sent down to clear the planet, there is a insidious plot. One that will test Loken, Torgaddon, Tarvitz and Lucis - a most graceful swordsman - or is he?
I've read a few reviews that the writing is poor, that the prose detaches all the intelligent development from the previous two novels. I personally think they are wrong. Ben was stuck with a story to tell where there is one piece left of the puzzle - that is a lot of death. Death of brotherhoods, death of the Great Crusade and death of allegiance. It was only going to go one way. That's not to say that it's all about those superhuman warriors. Far from it. Euraphti Keeler, the living saint, Kyril Sinnderman and Mersadie Oilton pay witness to Astrates war first hand. The horror of a Total war is shown before them. Suddenly boxed into a small room, they have a choice to stay and see what Horus has planned for the Rememberancers, or they can flee and try to get word to those who can do something about Horus's betrayal. One character who particularly came out well was Captain Iacton Qurze, known as the Half-Heard... a Son of Horus/Luna Wolf. He is old, very old even for a immortal warrior. No one listens to him, they look at him as the crazy-old-coot who mumbles nothing of interest. He finds himself at the centre of something big, which spurs him into action. A great side-story of sorts takes place, with himself and the Rememberancers.
As I've mentioned, Istavaan III is the centre point of the story. Those Loyalist forces sent down to the surface to pacify the rebels find strength in their brotherhood, courage and ability to tell what is really taking place - well, perhaps with a warning from a certain individual, whom shall remain nameless. New bonds are formed with those bloodthirsty World Eaters, the dull Death Guard and perfectionist Emperor's Children - those whom are seen to be clinging to the old ways - that of love for the Emperor beyond all, are to be sorely tested. Loken, Toragoddon et al are at the point of no return, as is Horus, Aximand Horus and Abaddon. Can Horus lead his forces effectively or will some hot-headed fool foil his plans? Will any warning reach The Emperor? All is revealed here in Ben's story, which is intelligently written for the reader, though at times becomes bogged down by the share amount of going-on's. What holds up the prose for me, is the writers ability to jump between POV and POV - it doesn't help with immersion, but after reading two previous books with Loken and Toragoddon kicking arse and taking names - though I should also say they share VERY human traits. That of the thinker and doubter, that of the joker and of the believer. Military science fiction doesn't get much better than this.
I did say I'd comment on the illustrations for the premium hardbacks, so here goes. Again, very cartoonish, not even graphic novel-worthy. One image is OK, that of Loken engaging Abaddon - but other than that. Well best not mentioned really.
Galaxy In Flames is the conclusion to the grandiose opening trilogy of The Horus Heresy and what a butcher's bill there is. Ben Counter, I'm a big fan of his writing. He is also a fellow Ancient History graduate, not that I'm biased. He has written some great tales, from The Soul Drinkers series to the Grey Knights trilogy. The book literally follows straight on from False Gods - Istvaan III has rebelled against the glorious illumination of the Imperium "those blighters" *shakes fist at them*. All this is really a excuse for the Warmaster aka Horus to rid himself of some Loyalist within the Legion's ranks - that being; The Emperor's Children, The World Eaters, Death Guard and Sons of Horus aka Luna Wolves. You can't pick your family. Family scrooble, it is something that happens in real life. This is no different, a son wanting to take the place of the alpha-male, that being his father. Time doesn't really change who we are and what we want, huh.
Captain Garvial Loken and Tarik Torgaddon, Loyalists or fools? The two try to piece together what is happening to the Legion, but all a bit too late. Horus has now been supplanted by forces beyond his understanding - the allies/Traitors who are taking arms against the Emperor begin to form. Istavaan III needs to be purged, a speartip is sent down. Unbeknownst to those who are sent down to clear the planet, there is a insidious plot. One that will test Loken, Torgaddon, Tarvitz and Lucis - a most graceful swordsman - or is he?
I've read a few reviews that the writing is poor, that the prose detaches all the intelligent development from the previous two novels. I personally think they are wrong. Ben was stuck with a story to tell where there is one piece left of the puzzle - that is a lot of death. Death of brotherhoods, death of the Great Crusade and death of allegiance. It was only going to go one way. That's not to say that it's all about those superhuman warriors. Far from it. Euraphti Keeler, the living saint, Kyril Sinnderman and Mersadie Oilton pay witness to Astrates war first hand. The horror of a Total war is shown before them. Suddenly boxed into a small room, they have a choice to stay and see what Horus has planned for the Rememberancers, or they can flee and try to get word to those who can do something about Horus's betrayal. One character who particularly came out well was Captain Iacton Qurze, known as the Half-Heard... a Son of Horus/Luna Wolf. He is old, very old even for a immortal warrior. No one listens to him, they look at him as the crazy-old-coot who mumbles nothing of interest. He finds himself at the centre of something big, which spurs him into action. A great side-story of sorts takes place, with himself and the Rememberancers.
As I've mentioned, Istavaan III is the centre point of the story. Those Loyalist forces sent down to the surface to pacify the rebels find strength in their brotherhood, courage and ability to tell what is really taking place - well, perhaps with a warning from a certain individual, whom shall remain nameless. New bonds are formed with those bloodthirsty World Eaters, the dull Death Guard and perfectionist Emperor's Children - those whom are seen to be clinging to the old ways - that of love for the Emperor beyond all, are to be sorely tested. Loken, Toragoddon et al are at the point of no return, as is Horus, Aximand Horus and Abaddon. Can Horus lead his forces effectively or will some hot-headed fool foil his plans? Will any warning reach The Emperor? All is revealed here in Ben's story, which is intelligently written for the reader, though at times becomes bogged down by the share amount of going-on's. What holds up the prose for me, is the writers ability to jump between POV and POV - it doesn't help with immersion, but after reading two previous books with Loken and Toragoddon kicking arse and taking names - though I should also say they share VERY human traits. That of the thinker and doubter, that of the joker and of the believer. Military science fiction doesn't get much better than this.
July 11, 2022
Odlicna trilogija! I mada se sve sto je napisano u ove tri knjige moze okarakterisati kao vec vidjeno, nikako ne mogu da se otmem utisku da je Warhammer univerzum nesto u cemu cu dugo dugo ostati i uzivati; nesto sto ima neogranicen kapacitet. Svaki aspekt zivota i naucne fantastike moze da nadje svoje mesto u ovom univerzumu i da se ne oseca kao uljez u nikada zaokruzenoj prci prepunoj krvi, smrti i horara. Jer kao sto neko rece u ovoj knjzi:"uvek se moze naci jos vojnika".
June 19, 2022
Another great book in this massive series. I'll get to them all, by god. Just see if I don't! I plan to start painting the miniatures next Christmas, too. I'm all in on this hobby now. I'll see you losers on the other side.
October 6, 2024
Tons of action is this book. The book gets fairly dark, definitely showing its roots. Lots of treachery, death and destruction. Honestly enjoying this series so far
April 7, 2025
*** 4 ***
So much betrayal! So much senseless murder... I don't even know if there is anyone left to root for anymore... Still, a good military Sci-fi series, definitely on the dark side of things though...
So much betrayal! So much senseless murder... I don't even know if there is anyone left to root for anymore... Still, a good military Sci-fi series, definitely on the dark side of things though...
January 16, 2025
Sons of Horus ✅🤩
July 18, 2016
Galaxy in Flames follows pretty seamlessly on from Horus Rising and False Gods, and all the characters were present and correct for the explosive finale to the Horus Heresy's opening act. There's some great stuff in here, especially in terms of action, and the way that Ben portrays Angron in battle without succumbing to what must be the overwhelming urge to overdo it is spine tingling. I also the love the bit where Iacton Qruze (my new favourite character in the series!) finally gets his time to shine.
A worthy read then, though not quite at the same level as Horus Rising and False Gods, though I think a lot of that is to do with the nature of the series and not to be laid at Ben's door. Another book between those first two, or between books two and three, to portray the gradual corruption of the Legion and the clandestine work of Erebus and the lodges would have helped. I couldn't help but thinking that Loken or Torgadden would have stood up Horus over this long before Isstvan.
And Eidolon. Oh Eidolon. There must be some hidden qualities to that guy that only Fulgrim can see :)
I'm a third of the way into Flight of the Eisenstein now and I'm enjoying the way it overlaps with Galaxy in Flames rather than continues from it, and actually addresses some of those little niggles by showing the build-up to Isstvan from a new perspective. All very nice, and I'm catching up slowly!
A worthy read then, though not quite at the same level as Horus Rising and False Gods, though I think a lot of that is to do with the nature of the series and not to be laid at Ben's door. Another book between those first two, or between books two and three, to portray the gradual corruption of the Legion and the clandestine work of Erebus and the lodges would have helped. I couldn't help but thinking that Loken or Torgadden would have stood up Horus over this long before Isstvan.
And Eidolon. Oh Eidolon. There must be some hidden qualities to that guy that only Fulgrim can see :)
I'm a third of the way into Flight of the Eisenstein now and I'm enjoying the way it overlaps with Galaxy in Flames rather than continues from it, and actually addresses some of those little niggles by showing the build-up to Isstvan from a new perspective. All very nice, and I'm catching up slowly!
December 27, 2021
This was an extremely entertaining military sci-fi epic: sublime and ridiculous, deeply philosophical and unapologetically over-the top. There are giant space marines, chainsaw swords, demonic rituals, and huge robot titans. In summary: this is a satisfying completion to what I think is the first arc of this story: the great heresy against the Emperor of Man. Unlike the previous two novels, this one features less social interaction on the ship, The Vengeful Spirit, and more battle on the planet of Istvaan III. The battles are beautifully narrated by Counter. His gives a sense of the overall tactical situation of the battle but also emphasizes the dramatic moments. Another thing that is notable about this third book in the Horus Heresy is how sad and dark it is. The first two have their dark moments but this one basically withdraws all hope. The last third of the book are not only full of horror and butchery but also sorrow (as many beloved characters are betrayed). One critique: Horus and his conspirators' descent into evil is quite swift. There is such an intriguing fear of religion, the supernatural, and sorcery in the first two books, and the switch to embrace it by the betrayers is surprising (but no less dramatic). This is my third Warhammer 40k book and I am hooked. I get it. (Second read (12/26/21): I still feel like Horus's transformation from loyal son of the Emperor to diabolical villain was too fast. I hope his transformation is explored more in later novels).
January 19, 2022
This book has everything I have come to love from the Horus Heresy series -- awesome battle scenes, plot twists and turns, action and treachery! Horus has recovered from his injuries and sets his sights on Isstvan III. More will come to pass on Isstvan III than just the burning of a planet....so much more.
I listened to the audiobook version of this 3rd book in the Horus Heresy series. Narrated by Toby Longworth, the audio is just short of 9 hours long. I love Toby Longworth's narration -- this series has put him on my list of favorite narrators. I look forward to the next book in the series (I have to find out what happens next!) but I was sad that the narrator changes for Flight of the Eisenstein. Makes sense because it's a different legion and characters...but still..... I got used to Longworth's style! I feel better since finding out he narrates the Eisenhorn series.
There were some twists in this story that I should have seen coming and didn't. There were some twists that I did see coming but was still shocked. And there were some full on treacherous actions that just made this book pop out as my favorite in the series so far. Plus....lots of great action....drop pods, titans, epic battle scenes. Loved it!
I have Flight of the Eisenstein queued up on Audible already. Will be listening soon! And then I plan to start the Eisenhorn series. Gotta have my Toby Longworth fix!
I listened to the audiobook version of this 3rd book in the Horus Heresy series. Narrated by Toby Longworth, the audio is just short of 9 hours long. I love Toby Longworth's narration -- this series has put him on my list of favorite narrators. I look forward to the next book in the series (I have to find out what happens next!) but I was sad that the narrator changes for Flight of the Eisenstein. Makes sense because it's a different legion and characters...but still..... I got used to Longworth's style! I feel better since finding out he narrates the Eisenhorn series.
There were some twists in this story that I should have seen coming and didn't. There were some twists that I did see coming but was still shocked. And there were some full on treacherous actions that just made this book pop out as my favorite in the series so far. Plus....lots of great action....drop pods, titans, epic battle scenes. Loved it!
I have Flight of the Eisenstein queued up on Audible already. Will be listening soon! And then I plan to start the Eisenhorn series. Gotta have my Toby Longworth fix!
March 25, 2024
Nota: 3,5 ⭐
Vaya por delante que con estas novelas de la franquicia estoy siendo bastante benevolente. Me decidí a leerlas por conocer el lore y los entresijos de un mundo -que conocí como muchos a través de las miniaturas- que me ha parecido muy interesante.
Su calidad literaria siempre la he puesto en duda, por ese motivo iba postergando su lectura. Este año ha sido el momento de empezar.
Y me he encontrado con unas novelas muy entretenidas, han captado mi atención desde el principio y me lo he pasado pipa. Han sido una grata sorpresa.
No sé si otros juegos de mesa pueden presumir de tener una serie de novelas que enriquezcan su mundo como lo tiene Warhammer.
'La Galaxia en Llamas' en concreto está un nivel por debajo de los dos libros anteriores, -en cada libro hay aun autor diferente- es como cuando vas andando y no ves ese pequeño escalón de bajada, te tambaleas un poco pero enseguida recuperas el equilibrio y sigues andando. No por lo que cuenta sino por como lo cuenta, con todo lo que pasa le ha faltado epicidad y grandilocuencia, pero no voy a entrar en técnicas literarias porque no soy un experto en la materia.
Aun así, es una novela que me ha entretenido mucho y la he disfrutado.
¿Seguiré con las decenas de libros que hay? Todo dependerá del tiempo y las ganas, pero por lo menos ya he matado el gusanillo.
Vaya por delante que con estas novelas de la franquicia estoy siendo bastante benevolente. Me decidí a leerlas por conocer el lore y los entresijos de un mundo -que conocí como muchos a través de las miniaturas- que me ha parecido muy interesante.
Su calidad literaria siempre la he puesto en duda, por ese motivo iba postergando su lectura. Este año ha sido el momento de empezar.
Y me he encontrado con unas novelas muy entretenidas, han captado mi atención desde el principio y me lo he pasado pipa. Han sido una grata sorpresa.
No sé si otros juegos de mesa pueden presumir de tener una serie de novelas que enriquezcan su mundo como lo tiene Warhammer.
'La Galaxia en Llamas' en concreto está un nivel por debajo de los dos libros anteriores, -en cada libro hay aun autor diferente- es como cuando vas andando y no ves ese pequeño escalón de bajada, te tambaleas un poco pero enseguida recuperas el equilibrio y sigues andando. No por lo que cuenta sino por como lo cuenta, con todo lo que pasa le ha faltado epicidad y grandilocuencia, pero no voy a entrar en técnicas literarias porque no soy un experto en la materia.
Aun así, es una novela que me ha entretenido mucho y la he disfrutado.
¿Seguiré con las decenas de libros que hay? Todo dependerá del tiempo y las ganas, pero por lo menos ya he matado el gusanillo.
February 15, 2025
Not much to add this time. The characterization is comparatively weak, subtlety’s taken an even bigger hit, and everything feels more rushed than ever. But honestly, can't say I minded it too much. It’s just a high-octane, action-packed ride that I ended up devouring in just 3 days again. So much happens so fast that you don’t get a chance to linger on anything, yet it still manages to be emotional by the end, especially since the ending hits almost all the right notes for me. Even the formulaic or predictable parts worked fine in context. The entire had me going hollow... However, the narration in general is kinda flat and monotonous, and I'm not sure if I would have cared much at all if I hadn't invested in Loken. So a good time overall, but weakest in the trilogy writing-wise. You can tell bigger, grander things are yet to come, and that has me really looking forward to reading the next one. So yeah, it might not be high literature, but it’s still pretty fun, safe to say I'm officially hooked.
January 16, 2025
"Loken felt sick as he realized that everything he knew about the warp was wrong.
He had been told that there were no such things as gods.
He had been told that there was nothing in the warp but insensate, elemental power.
He had been told that the galaxy was too sterile for melodrama.
Everything he had been told was a lie."
With the third book the Heresy goes into full treason. While the first two books were something of a "slow burn" and dropped hints as to what is to come, this third novel pulls no punches. Horus has fully committed to rebellion against the Emperor and wishes to usurp his place. Reaching out to speak with the Chaos gods, via one of their demon representatives, Erebus lets Horus know whom he is dealing with. Horus asks for power to defeat the Emperor and the Chaos gods wish for him to prove his loyalty.
This sets the stage for one of the most important events in the "history" of the 30K- the conflict (betrayal) at Istavaan III. The events leading up to this seminal conflict are similarly rather interesting, as the Emperor's Children fight against a warp using band of sorcerers known as Warsingers. It is their ability to use the warp to enhance their voices that will inspire the Emepror's Children to adopt similar methods, as Fabius Bile (Chief Apothecary) starts the heretical surgeries that will, in time, lead to the chaos Emperor's Children fielding such units as the Kakophoni in later times.
Meanwhile as the Mechanicum also joins with Horus and the schism creates what will be the Dark Mechanicum, the famous Imperial-Class Titan the Dies Irae chooses the path of infamy and joins Horus. But it is the humans, like the Remeberancers and Iterators, on board the Venegeful Spirit who suffer the most. As Euphrati Keeler continues to display awesome powers, and performs miracles, the Cult of the God Emperor spreads throughout the entire Crusade fleet.
Finally individual Astartes, from the traitor, legions will refuse to join in Horus' treason and will join famous names like Saul Travitz (Emepror's Children); Nathaniel Garro (Death Guard); and Garviel Loken (Sons of Horus) to try and fight against the treason. This will lead to the atrocity of Istavaan III where fully 1/3 of the traitor legions, those who keep faith with the Emperor, will be placed into a trap that will lead to their destruction. But, the campaign does not go according to plan and the valiant loyalists will drag the traitors into a grueling battle that will have far reaching consequences in the days ahead.
The first trilogy of the Heresy ends with a bang, though there is so much more yet to discover and learn about. While I was familiar with the events of Istavaan III, this was my first time delving into what exactly happened and to whom. A great book and a great way to end this first "trilogy" (though it is not really a trilogy but merely the first three books) and these first three books will remain my favorites of the Heresy.
He had been told that there were no such things as gods.
He had been told that there was nothing in the warp but insensate, elemental power.
He had been told that the galaxy was too sterile for melodrama.
Everything he had been told was a lie."
With the third book the Heresy goes into full treason. While the first two books were something of a "slow burn" and dropped hints as to what is to come, this third novel pulls no punches. Horus has fully committed to rebellion against the Emperor and wishes to usurp his place. Reaching out to speak with the Chaos gods, via one of their demon representatives, Erebus lets Horus know whom he is dealing with. Horus asks for power to defeat the Emperor and the Chaos gods wish for him to prove his loyalty.
This sets the stage for one of the most important events in the "history" of the 30K- the conflict (betrayal) at Istavaan III. The events leading up to this seminal conflict are similarly rather interesting, as the Emperor's Children fight against a warp using band of sorcerers known as Warsingers. It is their ability to use the warp to enhance their voices that will inspire the Emepror's Children to adopt similar methods, as Fabius Bile (Chief Apothecary) starts the heretical surgeries that will, in time, lead to the chaos Emperor's Children fielding such units as the Kakophoni in later times.
Meanwhile as the Mechanicum also joins with Horus and the schism creates what will be the Dark Mechanicum, the famous Imperial-Class Titan the Dies Irae chooses the path of infamy and joins Horus. But it is the humans, like the Remeberancers and Iterators, on board the Venegeful Spirit who suffer the most. As Euphrati Keeler continues to display awesome powers, and performs miracles, the Cult of the God Emperor spreads throughout the entire Crusade fleet.
Finally individual Astartes, from the traitor, legions will refuse to join in Horus' treason and will join famous names like Saul Travitz (Emepror's Children); Nathaniel Garro (Death Guard); and Garviel Loken (Sons of Horus) to try and fight against the treason. This will lead to the atrocity of Istavaan III where fully 1/3 of the traitor legions, those who keep faith with the Emperor, will be placed into a trap that will lead to their destruction. But, the campaign does not go according to plan and the valiant loyalists will drag the traitors into a grueling battle that will have far reaching consequences in the days ahead.
The first trilogy of the Heresy ends with a bang, though there is so much more yet to discover and learn about. While I was familiar with the events of Istavaan III, this was my first time delving into what exactly happened and to whom. A great book and a great way to end this first "trilogy" (though it is not really a trilogy but merely the first three books) and these first three books will remain my favorites of the Heresy.
August 26, 2010
Once again Ben counter ruins a great Warhammer 40k Story by showing he just has absolut no writing skill at all.
typical for ben counters book. The story is writing like:
And this happened, and that happen, and then that happen, and then something totally unworth of mention it and totally doesn't fit in the story at all happened , and then that happend again and...and...and...
No wonder Ben is rated as the second worst Author in the B.L., right after C.S.Goto...
typical for ben counters book. The story is writing like:
And this happened, and that happen, and then that happen, and then something totally unworth of mention it and totally doesn't fit in the story at all happened , and then that happend again and...and...and...
No wonder Ben is rated as the second worst Author in the B.L., right after C.S.Goto...
August 3, 2024
This book was straight up awesome! Basically the whole book is high-octane war/battle sequences and crazy political maneuvers that end in betrayal and my mind being blown. Obviously, knowing what the Horus Heresy is, most of the reveals of the “uh-oh, Horus turn bad” stuff was to be expected, but seeing how it was done and all of the interesting characters around him was amazing.
So much has changed from the first book and I feel like I’ve grown attached to so many of these characters like my boys Torgaddon, Loken, Sindermann, Tarvitz, Karkasy. All of these characters I’ve grown to really enjoy from the series as a whole. We get introduced to a new guy, Garro in this book who I know is a fan-favorite.
I can’t wait to read Eisenstein and see how everything turns out with Garro and the remembrancer gang.
I will say, the last war sequence got a little long in the tooth at parts. It wasn’t terrible but the last 3rd of the book was basically this one battle. I’m glad that the author decided to wrap it up when he did, and with a climactic ending duel nonetheless.
Overall, I’d say these first 3 books are super awesome and absolutely worth the read. They’re good fast-paced pallet-cleansers with some awesome plot points and lovable characters (almost in the same way people have a favorite Clone from Star Wars. They’re all so similar but they each have their own little thing going on that makes them different from other Astartes).
So much has changed from the first book and I feel like I’ve grown attached to so many of these characters like my boys Torgaddon, Loken, Sindermann, Tarvitz, Karkasy. All of these characters I’ve grown to really enjoy from the series as a whole. We get introduced to a new guy, Garro in this book who I know is a fan-favorite.
I can’t wait to read Eisenstein and see how everything turns out with Garro and the remembrancer gang.
I will say, the last war sequence got a little long in the tooth at parts. It wasn’t terrible but the last 3rd of the book was basically this one battle. I’m glad that the author decided to wrap it up when he did, and with a climactic ending duel nonetheless.
Overall, I’d say these first 3 books are super awesome and absolutely worth the read. They’re good fast-paced pallet-cleansers with some awesome plot points and lovable characters (almost in the same way people have a favorite Clone from Star Wars. They’re all so similar but they each have their own little thing going on that makes them different from other Astartes).
November 23, 2025
The absolute highlight so far. Heretics and Loyalists officially make their split, and clash for the first time in a huge war that spans the entire book. Horus finally drops the facade and they go all in on defying the Emperor and attempt to put an end to those within their Chapters and factions they know or suspect would remain loyal.
This book really had a bit of everything; betrayals, twists, reveals, stealth, strategy, Astartes Vs Astartes action, and even Angron taking to the field in a truly heart-pounding moment... it was all very satisfying. Top marks.
This book really had a bit of everything; betrayals, twists, reveals, stealth, strategy, Astartes Vs Astartes action, and even Angron taking to the field in a truly heart-pounding moment... it was all very satisfying. Top marks.
February 11, 2022
The Horus Heresy arc involves a large number of authors with differing styles and, in the third of the series and completion of the initial trilogy, we see a stark contrast with the previous two.
Lobotomy
Counter isn’t amazing with dialogue, which makes it harder to distinguish between characters such as Garro, Tarvitz and Loken. They are all ordinary good men that are somewhat, if not quite, interchangeable. Torgadden loses his humorous edges, Horus and Abbadon are little more than angry.
Counter instead relies on a lot of descriptions and expositions, like explaining the relationship of Garro and Tarvitz than trying to insert it into conversation, or describing a look:
His eyes met those of Horus Aximand and he saw a sorrow that matched his own echoed in his brother's eyes.
There’s also weaknesses in making clear the relationships, such as when Tarvitz says to Lucius:
"But I wouldn't, Lucius," said Tarvitz, "and you are my friend."
…it’s a bit of a stretch as I don’t feel Counter reinforced the relationship between the two from the first book to make me feel the same. When Lucius goes on to make the decision he does in this book, it lacks much impact. I don’t question its plausibility, it just isn’t interesting to me from a characterisation point of view.
It also all gets a little elevated:
“Your stand must be made here. Every minute you keep the traitors here is another minute for the Emperor to bring the Warmaster to justice.”
The theme and characterisation of Galaxy on Fire is good guys vs bad guys. It is not badly done, but it obscures the major point of difference in the Warhammer 40K universe, that there are no real good guys. The above is not implausible within the universe in isolation, but it is part of a repeated Manichaean theme. I guess there are multiple ways to see one's position within the universe.
Plot
The Warhammer 40K books have surprised me with their efforts at characterisation, however they tend to waffle around without a driver. Galaxy in Flames might not be overly intricate (we’re going to bomb you with an incredibly vicious virus, lol) but it has:
- A clear plot with stakes both personal (for those about to be bombed) and wider (the bombing is kicking off a galaxy wide revolt).
- Repeated moments of tension as the plot advances (capture the “castle” against a determined enemy, get to safety before the bombardment, kill major antagonists before your plucky resistance falls apart, get news of the rebellion to loyalist forces)
- Deaths of major characters, which will provides motivation to avenge them, getting me interested in reading those future novels.
Saul Tarvitz’s straight man act may shade into vanilla, but he is doing stuff in just enough of a way to not seem like a creature of the plot. A couple of previously minor characters step up in interesting ways to move things and it is linked to their portrayals in the earlier two books.
I am not arguing for this book as a triumph of storytelling. Any rating I give is biased by my immersion in the universe. But I never struggled through it, and I am inclined to give it credit for not devolving into navel gazing.
The weakest of the trilogy but not necessarily a downer as it offers something different.
Lobotomy
Counter isn’t amazing with dialogue, which makes it harder to distinguish between characters such as Garro, Tarvitz and Loken. They are all ordinary good men that are somewhat, if not quite, interchangeable. Torgadden loses his humorous edges, Horus and Abbadon are little more than angry.
Counter instead relies on a lot of descriptions and expositions, like explaining the relationship of Garro and Tarvitz than trying to insert it into conversation, or describing a look:
His eyes met those of Horus Aximand and he saw a sorrow that matched his own echoed in his brother's eyes.
There’s also weaknesses in making clear the relationships, such as when Tarvitz says to Lucius:
"But I wouldn't, Lucius," said Tarvitz, "and you are my friend."
…it’s a bit of a stretch as I don’t feel Counter reinforced the relationship between the two from the first book to make me feel the same. When Lucius goes on to make the decision he does in this book, it lacks much impact. I don’t question its plausibility, it just isn’t interesting to me from a characterisation point of view.
It also all gets a little elevated:
“Your stand must be made here. Every minute you keep the traitors here is another minute for the Emperor to bring the Warmaster to justice.”
The theme and characterisation of Galaxy on Fire is good guys vs bad guys. It is not badly done, but it obscures the major point of difference in the Warhammer 40K universe, that there are no real good guys. The above is not implausible within the universe in isolation, but it is part of a repeated Manichaean theme. I guess there are multiple ways to see one's position within the universe.
Plot
The Warhammer 40K books have surprised me with their efforts at characterisation, however they tend to waffle around without a driver. Galaxy in Flames might not be overly intricate (we’re going to bomb you with an incredibly vicious virus, lol) but it has:
- A clear plot with stakes both personal (for those about to be bombed) and wider (the bombing is kicking off a galaxy wide revolt).
- Repeated moments of tension as the plot advances (capture the “castle” against a determined enemy, get to safety before the bombardment, kill major antagonists before your plucky resistance falls apart, get news of the rebellion to loyalist forces)
- Deaths of major characters, which will provides motivation to avenge them, getting me interested in reading those future novels.
Saul Tarvitz’s straight man act may shade into vanilla, but he is doing stuff in just enough of a way to not seem like a creature of the plot. A couple of previously minor characters step up in interesting ways to move things and it is linked to their portrayals in the earlier two books.
I am not arguing for this book as a triumph of storytelling. Any rating I give is biased by my immersion in the universe. But I never struggled through it, and I am inclined to give it credit for not devolving into navel gazing.
The weakest of the trilogy but not necessarily a downer as it offers something different.
August 15, 2019
FIRST REVIEW
An amazing conclusion to the opening trilogy in the Horus Heresy series!
I really enjoyed the book. The bits about the church of the Emprah were awesome. Especially one scene that REALLY sells the whole "Yeah, we are grimdark evil now" thing, imo. The Astartes(and beyond) relations before the War on Istvaan III were what really sold me though. Any scene with any of the primarchs were absolutely amazing, because of the characters that were taking place. Though one part that really stands out to me is Angron talking(read: yelling) to(read: at) Eidolon. That part was absolutely hilarious and terrifying in equal measure.
The battle with the Istvaanians/warsingers was entertaining, but knowing what comes after made me breeze through it.
The entire civil war was a pleasure to read. Angron charging the palace while the ever-fewer Astartes attempted to defend the place... again.
Lucius does a awesome job cementing the Slaanesh ideals and all the hints about the whole Lucius the Eternal deal made me giddy. What can I say? I love him.
One thing about this book in particular. It was truly heartbreaking to see how the betrayal influenced the betrayed. I cannot imagine the hurt(and never ending hatred) that would stem from your own battle brothers coming to hunt you down, and I think that Mr. Counter captured that very well.
The defending bits focusing on Saul were awesome, and I really wish we could see more of him, but his sacrifice will not be in vain!
Loken and Torgaddon were amazing as usual, and that duel at the end brought quite the tear(s) to my eye(s)!
SECOND REVIEW
After not having read this for a fair few years, and reading quite a few other amazing novels in the meantime, this is still a thoroughly enjoyable novel. The culmination of events over the trilogy was fantastic. The characters continuing to travel along their destined paths, and some of their rivalries coming to a fatal head were all just as fantastic as they were the last time I read this. Hindsight being 20-20, I think I would have enjoyed Horus' Fall considerably more if they had done it differently (maybe an extra novel or 2 and some accompanying audios/shorts showing Horus at his absolute best, and making the Fall not happen in a single novel), but still a fantastic read.
Onwards to book 4!
An amazing conclusion to the opening trilogy in the Horus Heresy series!
I really enjoyed the book. The bits about the church of the Emprah were awesome. Especially one scene that REALLY sells the whole "Yeah, we are grimdark evil now" thing, imo. The Astartes(and beyond) relations before the War on Istvaan III were what really sold me though. Any scene with any of the primarchs were absolutely amazing, because of the characters that were taking place. Though one part that really stands out to me is Angron talking(read: yelling) to(read: at) Eidolon. That part was absolutely hilarious and terrifying in equal measure.
The battle with the Istvaanians/warsingers was entertaining, but knowing what comes after made me breeze through it.
The entire civil war was a pleasure to read. Angron charging the palace while the ever-fewer Astartes attempted to defend the place... again.
Lucius does a awesome job cementing the Slaanesh ideals and all the hints about the whole Lucius the Eternal deal made me giddy. What can I say? I love him.
One thing about this book in particular. It was truly heartbreaking to see how the betrayal influenced the betrayed. I cannot imagine the hurt(and never ending hatred) that would stem from your own battle brothers coming to hunt you down, and I think that Mr. Counter captured that very well.
The defending bits focusing on Saul were awesome, and I really wish we could see more of him, but his sacrifice will not be in vain!
Loken and Torgaddon were amazing as usual, and that duel at the end brought quite the tear(s) to my eye(s)!
SECOND REVIEW
After not having read this for a fair few years, and reading quite a few other amazing novels in the meantime, this is still a thoroughly enjoyable novel. The culmination of events over the trilogy was fantastic. The characters continuing to travel along their destined paths, and some of their rivalries coming to a fatal head were all just as fantastic as they were the last time I read this. Hindsight being 20-20, I think I would have enjoyed Horus' Fall considerably more if they had done it differently (maybe an extra novel or 2 and some accompanying audios/shorts showing Horus at his absolute best, and making the Fall not happen in a single novel), but still a fantastic read.
Onwards to book 4!
May 25, 2021
The Sons of Horus VS The Emperor's Children. Could there be any more apt a battle which would reveal the Heresy? If you missed the relentless onslaught of a typical 40k scenario in books one and two you're going to be pleased with book three. The Black Library team have created a truly rich universe and these books are absolutely fascinating.
Convictions are tested and allegiances formed, the biggest surprise being the return of The Luna Wolves. Every player in this great tumult faces contradictions of their most sincere instincts. The problem is best captured by quoting Gaviel Loken, "there’s more at stake here than a split between Astartes. It’s… It’s philosophy, ideology, religion even… everything".
Every player that is, apart from the star of the show. Horus now seems to have settled on his path and is committed to doing whatever it takes to gain the upper hand in waging his revolt against insurmountable odds. Some of these compromises are to be expected while other choices are made that shock and repulse even the most battle-hardened Astartes. There seems to be little remaining of that thoughtful leader we glimpsed in Horus Rising.
There's a scene with Lucius, Saul and a shard of broken glass and damn it's one hell of a creepy scene. It begins an incredibly tense delivery of the final hand to hand combats in this book and the author did a really good job of driving me nuts while I stood by watching the scene and hoping in vain for the best possible outcome. Simultaneously there are three of these face to face battles pitting our well known traitors and loyalists against each other. The intensity is palpable. Counter's writing was fantastic, keeping honest emotions at the forefront during such a grizzly, gory sequence.
Learning as I go, I was pleased to see the introduction of Warsingers in this story. Their power of song was presented as impressively powerful. Also, in the last pages of this book my earlier questions about the nature of the primarchs are pretty well answered.
Convictions are tested and allegiances formed, the biggest surprise being the return of The Luna Wolves. Every player in this great tumult faces contradictions of their most sincere instincts. The problem is best captured by quoting Gaviel Loken, "there’s more at stake here than a split between Astartes. It’s… It’s philosophy, ideology, religion even… everything".
Every player that is, apart from the star of the show. Horus now seems to have settled on his path and is committed to doing whatever it takes to gain the upper hand in waging his revolt against insurmountable odds. Some of these compromises are to be expected while other choices are made that shock and repulse even the most battle-hardened Astartes. There seems to be little remaining of that thoughtful leader we glimpsed in Horus Rising.
There's a scene with Lucius, Saul and a shard of broken glass and damn it's one hell of a creepy scene. It begins an incredibly tense delivery of the final hand to hand combats in this book and the author did a really good job of driving me nuts while I stood by watching the scene and hoping in vain for the best possible outcome. Simultaneously there are three of these face to face battles pitting our well known traitors and loyalists against each other. The intensity is palpable. Counter's writing was fantastic, keeping honest emotions at the forefront during such a grizzly, gory sequence.
Learning as I go, I was pleased to see the introduction of Warsingers in this story. Their power of song was presented as impressively powerful. Also, in the last pages of this book my earlier questions about the nature of the primarchs are pretty well answered.
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