The Legend of Sigmar

Warhammer Chronicles #1

by Graham McNeill

Sigmar is the greatest leader of men the world has ever known. By saving the high king of the dwarfs, he earned the eternal friendship of the mountain folk. When a mighty horde of orcs threatened his lands, he united the tribes of men to stand against them at Black Fire Pass. He broke the siege of Middenheim and pushed back the forces of Chaos. In defeating the great necromancer Nagash, he saved mankind and secured the future of his empire. His deeds are legend. This is his story.

This The Old World edition includes the Sigmar Trilogy:
-Heldenhammer
-Godking
-Empire

As well as 3 short stories:
-Let the Great Axe Fall
-Gods of Flesh and Blood
-Sword Guardian

Genres: Fantasy, Fiction, Science Fiction, Epic Fantasy

944 pages, Paperback

First published July 24, 2012

About the author

Hailing from Scotland, Graham McNeill narrowly escaped a career in surveying to work for Games Workshop as a games designer. He has a strong following with his novels Nightbringer, Warriors of Ultramar, Dead Sky, Black Sun and Storm of Iron.

Reviews

[Sud666 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sigmar Heldenhammer. A warrior who became a King. A King who became the first Emperor of man. An Emperor who became, in time, a god. Sigmar reminds me of the character of Talos from the game, Skyrim. A human king who rose to rule all the tribes of men and then became a god.

The Legend of Sigmar collects the three books that tell the tale of Sigmar. Heldenhammer, Empire and God-King are the three novels collected into this one tome.

The first book covers the time from the death of his father Bjorn, King of the Unberogens, Sigmar's soul-travels through the Land of the Dead, Sigmar's rise to Kingship, the death of his beloved Ravenna at the hands of the infamous Gerreon (her brother and one day nemisis of Sigmar, also known as Azazel), and the fight against the Orc horde of Urgluk Bloodfang.

The Second book, Empire, focuses on Sigmar trying to bind together the humans into one unified empire. This time the threat comes from the Norsii raiders, reavers who worship the Dark Gods. This was a great tale about the inner conflicts, treachery within and the huge invasion from outside. This book explains why the lands of men finally bent the knee to Sigmar.

The third book, God King, tells the tale of an infamous character from Warhammer- Nagash the Necromancer. An ancient evil that seeks to dominate the world (it is Nagash's book that Carl von Carstein used in the first Vampire War), Nagash's conflict with Sigmar is monumental and elevates Sigmar to something more than a man. A great tale of the power of Nagash and the amazing make up of Sigmar himself that will in time cause him to become a God.

This was a great read. Fun, exciting and interesting. Sigmar's struggles are never boring and the variety of threats from outside and inside are fun to read about. If you are curious as to the foundational lore of Sigmar and the Empire -don't miss this excellent trilogy.

[Dylan Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I never thought that I would get into Warhammer Fantasy. I had a good number of fantasy series that I was into(Sword of Truth, Song of Ice and Fire, LoTR, etc.) but after I saw that Black Library released these GIGANTIC(literally the biggest things on my bookshelf) omnibus editions, with amazing artwork, for only $17.50, I had to check it out.
The trilogy had me from the get go, I fell in love with Reikdorf, Sigmar, Wolfgart, Ravenna, etc.
All of the characters feel real, from Sigmar in his flawed magnificence to Redmane in his bitter glory seeking. The lands are all real and I spent hours just looking at the map and looking at where the battle took place! Which is something I found I enjoyed, because it really helps place everything.
I think that my favourite character was probably King/Count Otwin, or "The Berserker King", I could not help but laugh and feel pride at the things he did throughout the series.
This omnibus did a wonderful job of making me fall in love with the Time of Legend series, and Warhammer Fantasy. I am looking forward to reading some more ToL omnibuses(I already have The Rise of Nagash sitting dark and omnipotent on my bookshelf!) as well as many other WF novels!
I would recommend this to anyone who is a fan of Warhammer Fantasy, or just good grimdark fantasy in general!

[Paul Dobson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great fantasy trilogy. They are well-told tales of high adventure woven together with an articulate artistry.

It made me think back on Robert E. Howard’s Conan stories. Very well written with lots of payoff.

The world-building is well done and quickly understood. The reader is introduced to large regions with different cultures, climate, geography, and civilization. I want to compare this to other media I’ve paid attention to, but I don’t want to detract from how fantastic this world really is.

And I have to give it up to Graham McNeill because he’s written the most detailed, easy-to-follow, and rich descriptions of battle I’ve ever read. He sweeps across the battleground, covering events from each area with vast, yet concise imagery.

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in fantasy, empires, bloody battles, and magic, you’ll want to read this trilogy! Heldenhammer, Empire, and God King really reward you.

[Gavin Gates · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the world of Warhammer the name Sigmar and the legends of his exploits are pretty well known, so, being more a fan of a good adventure than of hack and slash this trilogy (Heldenhammer, Empire and Godking) 'Heldenhammer' sets out bringing together the rise of Sigmar from his first battle to the battle of the Black Fire Pass (very significant in the timeline of the warhammer setting) throughout Sigmar is obviously the main focus, the dialogue stays realistic and to my surprise Sigmar is portrayed as very human in every way and in a massive inner conflict with his emotions and conscience right through. On from here 'Empire' is where the setting gets really interesting with Sigmar pulling together a once very distant empire and now being seen by many as a god among men. The characters at this point have not yet really developed on from where they left off in the first section of this trilogy but the battle scenes in this one really come into their own from Sigmar clearing out of the forest down to his inner battles with himself. In context 'Heldenhammer' was always going to be too much to follow on from but 'Empire' does as much as any novel could ever do at this point without completely veering off the rails. Luckily 'Godking' ends it all with a bang like no other, every piece of action threatened in the build up to the closing novel is delivered emphatically. Every character comes into their own, demons, both standing in front of him and within himself are battled in glorious fashion and every single page is a pleasure to read. Sigmar, King of the Empire and a true God in every sense of the word. Without a doubt the best trilogy that Black Library have put out and proof that the Author is a rare talent.

[Adon Coya · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting trilogy, where the writer matured while writing - the third book is by far the best of the three. Having played RPG in this world, I found the description consistent and interesting. Characters are a bit shallow and two-dimensional, especially in the first book that presents a narrative in tandem with medieval viking sagas. The most bloated part was the battle descriptions (and there were a lot of those) which focused a lot on what actors were doing instead of advancing the plot - but even that gets better on the third book. Overall, an interesting - if quite long - reading, but I'm quite sure I'm not re-reading it.

[Chad · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like the Warhammer universe, this book is a five star. If not but love fantasy, it's a four star read. I loved it!

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Never thought I would like anything about the Empire, but this book gives a very good overview of how the Empire began.

[Denis · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Legend of Sigmar, written by Graham McNeill, is an omnibus containing the fantasy Warhammer's trilogy about the Empire's founder with an addition of a short story in the book's final part. This collection fully focuses on Sigmar’s first twenty five years of ruling and the initial, very dangerous threats which would be the united land’s doom if not defeated.
The first volume, Heldenhammer, tells the story of the Emperor as a growing youth, taught and guided by his father and closest, childhood friends. Being a member of the Unberogen tribe, the population’s culture and way of life is described through this first book, as well as all the customs and establishments of each clan present in this story’s setting. The intellect, strength, negative and positive qualities of Sigmar are introduced through actions, relationships, speeches and moments of solitude as the heir, already wielding the gifted, dwarven runehammer Ghal-Maraz, witnesses his hometown Reikdorf’s evolution and development. After his father’s death and ascension to kinghood, he forms a strong oath-like alliance with the Dwarfs and ultimately begins the quest of forming the Empire. Heldenhammer is a tale of union, displaying how Sigmar has to use the utmost maximum in diplomacy, courage and leadership to unite all tribes for one goal. Whether it is through slaying a mighty beast in a duel, aiding a settlement against an invading foe or reigniting old friendships, the soon-to-be Emperor succeeds, with just one civilization rejecting and insulting the Unberogen warlord. As soon as such a result is met, the first major enemy aims to destroy Sigmar’s work – a vast host of Orks. An incredible, legendary battle commences at Black Fire Pass, where outnumbered humanity defends their very existence. The Empire emerges victorious at the end of Heldenhammer, signalling a beginning of a new land of might and glory.
The second book, Empire, is set a few years after the first grand triumph, besieging Sigmar in more political and military matters. As he solves such issues and further develops his character through maturing, two major threats emerge for the empire – a necromancer Morath and a vast, growing horde of the Norsii, ready to squash and claim the Emperor’s lands. Both foes are challenged and fought against, but Sigmar suffers powers of corruption and brutality after defeating the dreadful necromancer, throwing him into very difficult situation and to a brink of transformation into an evil dictator. Yet his iron will defeats such a negative influence, but victory cannot be cheered as the Chaos forces emerge and obliterate settlements after settlements. This terrible and horrifying conflict culminates in the second, epic battle between Sigmar and a Daemon Avatar of Khorne in the city of Middenheim. After much bloodshed and heart-breaking sacrifices, the Empire is triumphant again as the Daemon is vanquished and the Chaos forces are dispersed by the land’s unity, opening worthy, futuristic opportunities for the civilization.
The trilogy’s last piece, God King, is encapsulating the final, mighty encounter that solidifies Sigmar’s existence. As the Empire rejuvenates from the wars with the Orks and the Norsii, the deadliest challenger of humanity emerges in a form of resurrected Nagash the Sorcerer and a numberless host of undead warriors, aided by Vampires and lesser Necromancers. As the Immortal uses cruel tactics of sabotage, famine and decay, certain areas of Sigmar’s land undergo a development leading to the current Empire – decadency, political schemes and manipulations, even assassinations. As the entire civilization horribly suffers under Nagash’s attacks, with many heroes dying as the days go by, Sigmar discovers a way to destroy the Necromancer and after months of isolated, outnumbered warfare, commences the last battle of his Legend near the River Reik. Using the same powers that almost corrupted him, Reikdorf’s entire populace attacks Nagash and his army, leaving the Emperor duelling the mighty magician. A very costly victory is scored for the Empire, banishing the villain and securing a long-lasting future for the Empire, led by their god-like founder, Sigmar.
Let the Great Axe Fall is a short story focusing on the Emperor and his dwarf ally, Alaric, hunting Nagash’s most powerful and brutal lieutenant, Krell, Khorne’s undead champion. With a strong hunting party, Sigmar launches a chase after the terrible officer, hoping to stop him before claiming more dangerous amounts of power. As they travel and find a support from a Norsii neutral mage, they find Krell in a Nehekharan city, where an uneven battle happens. While almost the entirety of such a party is slain by the Champion, Sigmar and Alaric succeed in defeating the warlord and sealing him within the city by another unexpected assistance, this time from Ar-Ulric.
Like Mike Lee’s omnibus, this gigantic story was an astonishing experience. Mr. McNeill is master of combat and battles, adding exquisite detail to equipment, fights amongst flanks and the morale of both sides. While the action can be lengthy, especially during the final confrontations, they are very well-paced with nerve-wracking moments and very surprising twists. Both psychological and physical atmospheres in such battles are well detailed, described and explained, making the reader understanding the utmost maximum from such situations.
Graham McNeill also delivered with characters, environments and relationships between the omnibus’ protagonists and antagonists. Long and intellectual conversations are present, while the colourful characteristics of Sigmar and those around him, strengthened by interesting and complex relationships, turn the personae into very likeable and supportable entities, the readers invested and interested in what happens in their futures. Deaths and tragic fates become truly emotional experiences as a long trek of a character ends. Each individual in the trilogy is unique, with a set of quirks and positive qualities, empowered by a strong sense of character growth through the series.
Sigmar himself as a main protagonist goes through triumphs and defeats, victories and losses, intellectual and military challenges. The best thing about the Emperor is how Mr. McNeill decided to picture him – even though he wields an incredibly powerful hammer and is an amazing combatant, many times do we see his human and vulnerable side, as well as the man’s emotions and mental struggles. This is particularly vivid in Empire and the last part of God King. Sigmar becomes a believable, realistic character, because while he certainly aims for the greater good and prosperity for the Empire, we also witness him during hardships, sufferings and moments of great weakness. A very wise and intelligent feat from the Black Library writer.
Unfortunately, there are problems and cracks that do not make it as excellent and breath-taking as the omnibus about Nagash. A certain, harmful pattern is still present in Graham McNeill’s writing style. There are quite a few situations that are resolved and finished too easily and with an overpowering sense of simplicity and no real weight to the conflict. Also, the final duels can be a little bit short and without real showmanship of the main characters’ power and supremacy in their skills. The duel between Sigmar and Nagash is the best example as the moment suffers the points I have made.
The biggest hit, however, lands upon the short story and God King. Let the Great Axe Fall wasn’t edited well and more could have been added to the tale, enriching and empowering the experience. While it is still enjoyable, my personal feelings can be compared to my review of Warhammer 40,000’s Twelve Wolves.
God King has an interesting twist in the narrative. It majorly focuses on all the lands suffering under the power of Nagash, as the readers are told about all the destruction and decay done by the Sorcerer. What is frustrating and kind of infuriating is Nagash and Sigmar himself – they are barely seen and mentioned in the volume before the last showdown. Interesting opinions, tactical thinking and responses to situations are obscured and eliminated by the focus on the Empire’s survival against the undead threat. While it is a good choice to observe how the rest of the land fares, in this particular analysis, it is overdone and harmful to the story.
Also, those who read Mike Lee’s similar omnibus will find distaste and disappointment in how Nagash was handled by Mr. McNeill. The Sorcerer has a very different personality when compared to his legendary tale in Rise of Nagash, but it is a negative change because it just doesn’t suit him. It slightly invalidates everything he has done before being slain by Alcadizzar, leaving the Immortal’s fans confused and annoyed at such a display. His genius intellect, hatred for humanity and nihilism is scarcely mentioned or used, which would make this story an even better one if following Mr. Lee’s example. The readers will also not know how was Nagash resurrected if not venturing into more books about Neferata, Mourkain and other legacies of this powerful lich.
Still, with such problematic subjects, this omnibus is a very enjoyable collection about the mightiest Emperor humanity has ever known. With a mastery in action, battles, strong, realistic characters and a very good care for the main protagonist, four stars is a perfect rating. Those who enjoy other Time of Legends omnibuses and books will find this purchase an item of very high quality, rich in plot, twists, and more! A definite recommendation!

[Grayson · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Legend of Sigmar Omnibus is a good collection of three novels. This is my first foray into the Warhammer Fantasy series, and I’d say it was a good introduction to the grim dark world.

The first book, titled Heldenhammer was about Sigmar’s rise to Emperor, and the initial creation of the infamous Empire. It was an alright novel, but suffered from its prose. At some points, it felt like I was eating dried licorice. However, the world, and the well-written battles and lovable characters kept me reading. This is the weakest link in the trilogy.

The next book, Empire, followed Sigmar’s quest to keep his Empire united, and also followed his defense against a Norsii invasion. The writing was a lot better here, and several characters got loads of development, including my personal favorite character, Wolfgart. Sigmar also got a little bit of development, with a corrupting crown.

The last book, God King, followed Sigmar’s war against the vile sorcerer Nagash. It was the best book of the trilogy, with the best prose. The way the author describes the undead forces of Nagash was genuinely creepy, and I loved every second of it. By this point, Sigmar is a complete character, so he doesn’t really develop too much here, but the others all do. It is a fantastic entry.

Overall, this omnibus is a 3/5. It suffers greatly from the dry prose, but still retains many points for its world building, battles, and characters!

[Mason K. · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a book based on a board game about a guy named Sigmar who wields a hammer and fights orcs, demons, vampires and the undead. If you're looking for introspection, intellectual enlightenment, and something that speaks to modern social and economic issues - you're going to be disappointed. But otherwise it's better than it has any right to be.

There are three books followed by three short stories that could effectively be one story. Each book gets progressively better, with the first being the most underwhelming. The stories are predictable and lacks the political intrigue of more "high brow" fantasy, but it's the action set pieces that matter, and the author excels in that regard.

I've never read a Robert E. Howard book and only read this for the Warhammer lore. So if you're into either you might enjoy this book. Otherwise, I'm not sure there aren't books that do the same but better.

[Heinz Reinhardt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not much more I can add that hasn't already been said before. Read this concurrently with reading some of the new Age of Sigmar fiction. This tome is hands down so far superior to anything published in the AoS line as to make me weep over the demise of the Old World.
This is genuinely a terrific story, written in an epic and solemn fashion that places this on par with other, more mainstream, works like Game of Thrones (not at all hyperbole, this is genuinely good fantasy, not just merely a media tie in). If you fancy a story of endurance in the midst of despair, courage in the face of great evil, honor in the face of degeneracy, and resolve in the face of certain death, then try this one out. Personally, this has taken the crown as my favorite work of fantasy, period. Also, I rank it as McNeill's greatest work, even surpassing Fulgrim and A Thousand Sons.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent companion for AOS and Warhammer Fantasy fans.

The story follows the life of Sigmar as he grows from the time he is a young man to his later years. This character is central to both the Warhammer Fantasy and Warhammer Age of Sigmar settings and this book provides a look into him beyond the deity-like status he has normally. Anthropologically, lore adherence also get an in depth look at the peoples of the Old World, including some luminaries, but mostly how common folk would live in these settings. The reading was easy but not simplistic and the story engaging.

[Jack Volante · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great omnibus. Such a wonderful read, experiencing the formation of the Empire as Sigmar works really hard to unite the human clans, over many years. I loved the way that each human clan has its own unique 'flavour'.
I was also over-the-moon to see my favourite Warhammer character make an appearance: Nagash!

I'd give this book a good 4.5/5, but Goodreads won't let me.

Well worth a read for all classic Warhammer fans.

[Sales · Rating 5 out of 5]

Impresionante, super disfrutable y una joyita para los amantes del Lore.

Eso sí, en castellano la editorial minotauro dejó las erratas de los libros sueltos y no tuvo la decencia de corregirlas al hacer el Ómnibus, con sus 2 cojones, "con los altos duendes del otro lado del mar" y "los duendes del bosque" cuando son elfos Elf... Poquito hay que saber del Lore para darse cuenta, pero bueno.

No les puedes pedir más.

[GuyBanff · Rating 3 out of 5]

More Allegory, more myth

I am a lifelong fan of medieval historical fiction. With the rich history and legends of the Holy Roman Empire to draw on I was hoping for more allegories of Barbarossa, Archbishop Tankred, and Roland, and some stories reflecting the early Emperors and political rivalries and wars of the electors.

A fun read, but it leaves so much on the table.

[Hogan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think that this book was exceptionally good, and it balanced a lot of different things in it like romance, humor, terror, courageous deeds and more. I liked it because it taught me more than any other book has ever taught me, and after reading it I just wanted to start rereading it instantly.

[Becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great battle detail but some time frames and facts about it are unrealistic. Such as Sigmar being a fantastic warrior at age 15, or that his father's corpse traveled probably over 3 weeks and still looked a-okay.

[Ben · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome!

The Legend of Sigmar was a fantastic read! It's start was a bit slow, but once I got into it, it was hard to put down. I'd definitely recommend it to Warhammer fans and anyone who likes good dark fantasy.

[Nick · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fun lore WH read. Good in depth Sigmar lore, though disappointed did not touch on what happens to Sigmar between this and End Times. Maybe that comes in the End Times storyline, have not gotten there yet.

[Niccolò Ceresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book about Sigmar, describing not only battles and fights but also the Early Empire condition.

[Ted Zarek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Man, what a long, epic read. Like reading a movie in action, the scenes are easy to picture which creates even more awesome images in your head as you read.

[Ronald Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing Fantasy Story

[Pieter Houtman · Rating 2 out of 5]

Quite dull at times, some willpower required to finish it. Interesting read though if you want to know more about the Warhammer world.

[Jay Doctor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wish McNeill had been able to wrote about Sigmar's actual ascension

[Geoffrey Hughes · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pretty average story with a few interesting bits. I'm just getting into the Warhammer books so I'm hoping that they will improve as I go.

[Shortsman · Rating 4 out of 5]

The combat gets old (facing a twice as large force, everything seems lost, some deus ex machina comes in and saves the day) but I love the worldbuilding.

[N0tter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly, I loved this book but the complete lack of a satisfying end point was frustrating. So many plot points just completely un-addressed

[Nate · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF'd at 70% some years ago and haven't had the willpower to finish it since. The second book I have ever left unfinished after the third Jason Bourne book. I thought I'd read this as I love(d) the lore of the old Warhammer world (before they f***ed with it) and Warhammer 40k, as well as collecting and painting hundreds of Games Workshop miniatures. I should really have known better than to expect to read anything meaningful from games developers moonlighting as an author... so the poor rating is partially my own fault for having higher expectations than I should have realistically had for what is in essence a glorified Warhammer advert.
It reads like an extended character description from an RPG. First this amazing character did this, and then he did that, and then he was awesome and continued to be so awesome until he was the king of all the humans that were't evil. No depth, tension or interest at all at any time in any of the stories, coupled with a flat, characterless writing style that did no favours to the characters at all.

[Michael Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hands down one of the best Warhammer books I've ever read. This book will always has a special place in my soul. To get a sense of the beginnings of the Empire before the Empire was even a thought. To follow Sigmar and his band of brothers on their journey what an amazing read. A must read to anyone interested in the Warhammer Fantasy universe even if the Empire isn't your thing. Sigmar will make it your thing. You get the sense in this book how much of a real hero he is. How he is in fact destined for greatness. Graham McNeill out did himself with this series.

[Sethatonious · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a solid read, especially for those who enjoy the warhammer realm. My only complaint is the ending. Not what happens, but more so how quickly it happen. It felt like the author had no time to finish the book the way he wanted to, and just threw a simple ending together to give the story come closure.