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The Horus Heresy #31
Das Vermächtnis des Verrats
Nur aus großen Konflikten können wahre Helden hervorgehen. Die Galaxis steht in Flammen und ein Krieg unvorstellbaren Ausmaßes zerreißt das Imperium. Die Champions des Licht und der Dunkelheit betreten das Schlachtfeld, um für ihre Herren zu kämpfen. Sie bitten nicht um Gedenken oder Ehren – sie wollen sich einfach nur in ihr Schicksal stürzen, denn nur so können sie erfahren, was die unbekannte Zukunft für sie bereithält.
502 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 11, 2014
About the author
Graham McNeill
348 books951 followersHailing 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
September 24, 2018
Yet again I realize that anthologies are not my thing. This one had some real gems and some fillers squeezed together in a book, seemingly chosen at random. I tried to give a short, spoiler-free review to each of the short stories. Not sure if I’m gonna ever go that again, some seem pretty pointless.
1 Chris Wraight - Brotherhood of the Storm ****
I enjoyed this novella. No mind blowing plot twists, but a good insight on White Scars, the way they fight, think, their traditions. Loved the fact that they were presented to us from different perspectives - both from inside the legion and from an outside observer.
2 John French – Serpent **
Too short. I only started to feel the chaotic atmosphere when the story ended.
3 Guy Haley - Hunter's Moon ***
Again I realize that I prefer Guy Haley’s longer works compared to the short stories. Good thing about this one - human characters, they were interesting, but Astartes – not so much. My issue here is also the fact that I am rarely a fan of both Space Wolves and Alpha Legion stories, and here we have them both. Probably just not my cup of tea.
4 David Annandale - Veritas Ferrum *****
A wonderful prequel to the Damnation of Pythos, intense and full of action. As short as it is, this story throws you onto the Veritas Ferrum ship and there is nowhere to run.
5 John French – Riven *****
I find this story very unusual and eerie, which is exactly what I’m looking for in HH/40k bools. The concepts presented and the ending made me wonder if we will ever see these guys again, imagine the role they could play in the main event. I really hope this is not the last time we’ve seen them.
6 Guy Haley - Strike and Fade *****
Okay, guess I like some Haley’s shorts. This one I enjoyed indeed. An aftermath of the Isstvan V drop-site massacre, Salamanders and their beautiful human hearts. I got very excited when Night Lords appeared, then they were gone quickly. But the second I thought this story is mediocre, it took a turn. OH, THE FEELS!
7 Gav Thorpe - Honour the Dead ****
This one actually impressed me quite a lot. As much as I enjoyed both Astartes and this obsessed traitor Princeps, the human character, a mother protecting her child, was the one who really did it for me.
8 Aaron Dembski-Bowden - Butcher's Nails *****
Oh, how the Butcher’s Nails sang.
I’ve read and listened to this story so many times, it’s definitely one of my all-time favorites. A great addition to the book Betrayer, we get a very clear description of how those nails actually affect the Red Angel, there’s a lot of foreshadowing, a change in Lorgar’s character compared to The First Heretic. AND the fierce Lotara Sarrin, hands down one of the best human characters in HH! It’s fascinating to see the relationship between Angron and Lorgar, knowing what happens next. The dynamic between Kharn and Argel Tal, who is already going through his unfortunate transformation, is the best thing. And then even the Eldar add some good flavor to this story. Love it.
9 John French – Warmaster ***
Very short and missing a real plot, but gets you in the mood.
10 Graham McNeill – Kryptos ****
Interesting. Though I feel like the fact that I’ve read Angel Exterminatus and am familiar with the characters helped me quite a bit. The chemistry is there.
11 Chris Wraight - Wolf's Claw ***
Another very short story that barely makes sense without context. It’s not bad, it’s just too short and random.
12 Graham McNeill - Thief Of Revalations *****
Amazing piece, atmospheric and haunting, makes me look forward to reading the Crimson King. Can’t add much to avoid spoilers. Anyway, highly recommend!
13 Gav Thorpe - The Divine Word ***
I read Deliverence Lost not that long ago, but this did not help me find great interest in this short. It was fairly enjoyable, not bad, but nothing to write home about.
14 - Graham McNeill - Lucius - The Eternal Blade ***
Very intriguing from the beginning, it turned out way too short. It felt like a piece of a longer story, not whole.
15 Anthony Reynolds - Khârn - The Eightfold Path *****
Amazing. Following the events of the Shadow Crusade, we see Kharn in the fighting pits. Can’t say much without spoiling it for you. I will only repeat, Kharn is one of the most interesting characters in HH/40k and every piece featuring him is a pleasure to read.
16 Gav Thorpe - Cypher - Guardian of Order ****
A glimpse back at Caliban, this one is very short as well, yet I found It intriguing. It’s clearly leading to something bigger.
17 Aaron Dembski-Bowden - Heart of the Conqueror *****
Fantastic short, a great example of how to properly use a limited amount of words to tell a full story. A wonderful portrayal of one’s loyalty and power, Nisha Andrasta showing both strength and weakness, quitting and making an impact at the same time.
18 Nick Kyme – Censure ****
Not like we needed even more Calth stories, but this one I really enjoyed. The dynamic between a human and a space marine, being companions and brothers in arms, is fascinating. A good one, makes you like Ultramarines even if you’re normally not about their attitude. Enjoyed the ending. My main issue with Calth stories is the Word Bearers, they are mostly portrayed as very one-dimensional and not relatable in a slightest. Here it did not bother me, probably because it’s a short story and it has another, more important message.
19 Chris Wraight - Bjorn - Lone Wolf ****
I keep saying I am not that into Space Wolves, yet their stories seem to impress me quite a lot. This short has a captivating way of narration, I enjoyed it quite a bit.
1 Chris Wraight - Brotherhood of the Storm ****
I enjoyed this novella. No mind blowing plot twists, but a good insight on White Scars, the way they fight, think, their traditions. Loved the fact that they were presented to us from different perspectives - both from inside the legion and from an outside observer.
2 John French – Serpent **
Too short. I only started to feel the chaotic atmosphere when the story ended.
3 Guy Haley - Hunter's Moon ***
Again I realize that I prefer Guy Haley’s longer works compared to the short stories. Good thing about this one - human characters, they were interesting, but Astartes – not so much. My issue here is also the fact that I am rarely a fan of both Space Wolves and Alpha Legion stories, and here we have them both. Probably just not my cup of tea.
4 David Annandale - Veritas Ferrum *****
A wonderful prequel to the Damnation of Pythos, intense and full of action. As short as it is, this story throws you onto the Veritas Ferrum ship and there is nowhere to run.
5 John French – Riven *****
I find this story very unusual and eerie, which is exactly what I’m looking for in HH/40k bools. The concepts presented and the ending made me wonder if we will ever see these guys again, imagine the role they could play in the main event. I really hope this is not the last time we’ve seen them.
6 Guy Haley - Strike and Fade *****
Okay, guess I like some Haley’s shorts. This one I enjoyed indeed. An aftermath of the Isstvan V drop-site massacre, Salamanders and their beautiful human hearts. I got very excited when Night Lords appeared, then they were gone quickly. But the second I thought this story is mediocre, it took a turn. OH, THE FEELS!
7 Gav Thorpe - Honour the Dead ****
This one actually impressed me quite a lot. As much as I enjoyed both Astartes and this obsessed traitor Princeps, the human character, a mother protecting her child, was the one who really did it for me.
8 Aaron Dembski-Bowden - Butcher's Nails *****
Oh, how the Butcher’s Nails sang.
I’ve read and listened to this story so many times, it’s definitely one of my all-time favorites. A great addition to the book Betrayer, we get a very clear description of how those nails actually affect the Red Angel, there’s a lot of foreshadowing, a change in Lorgar’s character compared to The First Heretic. AND the fierce Lotara Sarrin, hands down one of the best human characters in HH! It’s fascinating to see the relationship between Angron and Lorgar, knowing what happens next. The dynamic between Kharn and Argel Tal, who is already going through his unfortunate transformation, is the best thing. And then even the Eldar add some good flavor to this story. Love it.
9 John French – Warmaster ***
Very short and missing a real plot, but gets you in the mood.
10 Graham McNeill – Kryptos ****
Interesting. Though I feel like the fact that I’ve read Angel Exterminatus and am familiar with the characters helped me quite a bit. The chemistry is there.
11 Chris Wraight - Wolf's Claw ***
Another very short story that barely makes sense without context. It’s not bad, it’s just too short and random.
12 Graham McNeill - Thief Of Revalations *****
Amazing piece, atmospheric and haunting, makes me look forward to reading the Crimson King. Can’t add much to avoid spoilers. Anyway, highly recommend!
13 Gav Thorpe - The Divine Word ***
I read Deliverence Lost not that long ago, but this did not help me find great interest in this short. It was fairly enjoyable, not bad, but nothing to write home about.
14 - Graham McNeill - Lucius - The Eternal Blade ***
Very intriguing from the beginning, it turned out way too short. It felt like a piece of a longer story, not whole.
15 Anthony Reynolds - Khârn - The Eightfold Path *****
Amazing. Following the events of the Shadow Crusade, we see Kharn in the fighting pits. Can’t say much without spoiling it for you. I will only repeat, Kharn is one of the most interesting characters in HH/40k and every piece featuring him is a pleasure to read.
16 Gav Thorpe - Cypher - Guardian of Order ****
A glimpse back at Caliban, this one is very short as well, yet I found It intriguing. It’s clearly leading to something bigger.
17 Aaron Dembski-Bowden - Heart of the Conqueror *****
Fantastic short, a great example of how to properly use a limited amount of words to tell a full story. A wonderful portrayal of one’s loyalty and power, Nisha Andrasta showing both strength and weakness, quitting and making an impact at the same time.
18 Nick Kyme – Censure ****
Not like we needed even more Calth stories, but this one I really enjoyed. The dynamic between a human and a space marine, being companions and brothers in arms, is fascinating. A good one, makes you like Ultramarines even if you’re normally not about their attitude. Enjoyed the ending. My main issue with Calth stories is the Word Bearers, they are mostly portrayed as very one-dimensional and not relatable in a slightest. Here it did not bother me, probably because it’s a short story and it has another, more important message.
19 Chris Wraight - Bjorn - Lone Wolf ****
I keep saying I am not that into Space Wolves, yet their stories seem to impress me quite a lot. This short has a captivating way of narration, I enjoyed it quite a bit.
July 23, 2025
Some of these are way too short and not worth it, but it contains some good and interesting ones. Probably 2.5 stars.
Brotherhood of the Storm (***)
Serpent (**)
Hunter's Moon (***)
Veritas Ferrum (**)
Riven (****)
Strike and Fade (*) From now on, stories where this happens will get by default 1 star.
Honour to the Dead (***)
Butcher's Nails (****)
Warmaster (**)
Kryptos (****)
Wolf's Claw (***)
Thief of Revelations (***)
The Divine Word (**)
Lucius: The Eternal Blademaster (**)
Khârn: The Eightfold Path (**)
Cypher: Guardian of Order (*)
Heart of the Conqueror (**)
Censure (**)
Bjorn: Lone Wolf (*)
Brotherhood of the Storm (***)
Serpent (**)
Hunter's Moon (***)
Veritas Ferrum (**)
Riven (****)
Strike and Fade (*) From now on, stories where this happens will get by default 1 star.
Honour to the Dead (***)
Butcher's Nails (****)
Warmaster (**)
Kryptos (****)
Wolf's Claw (***)
Thief of Revelations (***)
The Divine Word (**)
Lucius: The Eternal Blademaster (**)
Khârn: The Eightfold Path (**)
Cypher: Guardian of Order (*)
Heart of the Conqueror (**)
Censure (**)
Bjorn: Lone Wolf (*)
November 29, 2015
The Horus Heresy, book 31. One would think by now that this series would be getting stale or boring. In fact this is the third, perhaps or maybe fourth short story and novella anthology written for the series. One would think it would start to fade. Here is why it hasn't. The short stories provide add-ons and further glimpses into secondary characters, situations and possible outcomes of the other novels. Notable characters that you remember but assume you won't hear from again just spring up in these stories. That is why these stories endure and make me want more. There are more characters by far than even a George R.R. Martin book, if you can believe that. They are weaving into and out of the main plot, the second and tertiary stories. You think they are gone but then a meager mention of them and where they are heading next, or in some cases what really happened to them pops up. I cannot emphasize how good these books are for 40k fans. The new one came out last tuesday. Heading to pick it up today.
Danny
Danny
April 23, 2024
We are embarked on this course and our purpose is set. To forget one’s purpose is the commonest form of stupidity.’
A bit of a circle back in terms of order of reading but the plot of the Horus Heresy moves slowly enough that there were not too many spoilers.
Place no trust in me
She pressed the muzzle of the stolen pistol to her temple. Her attendants were running, shrieking, weeping. ‘For the Emperor,’ she told them. Navigator Nisha Andrasta pulled the trigger and tore the Conqueror from the warp in a cascade of screaming, tortured metal.
I probably should damn this book. It is a compilation of stories published elsewhere before, and they lack connective tissue or theme other than some Legions getting more “air time” than others (the World Eaters particularly benefiting). The novella that anchors it is passable rather than great, and even then that is mostly because I have accepted that the White Scars and their Primarch have to be impervious to logic and etiquette for the purposes of their personality trait of “ambiguity”. I will never love their portrayal, but resigning myself to their foibles did allow me to appreciate the novel slightly more.
I am going to argue for some of the other stories being above average, but Legacies of Betrayal is probably evidence of not just subjectivity between reviewers but the mood the reviewer was in at the time. I had not read any Horus Heresy books in awhile and was therefore less fatigued by the jumping around and some stories forcing me to peruse the relevant wiki articles in the absence of contextual clues.
Yet it just seemed good, and fun, where the shorter format allows for a range of stories – I am relatively pro compilation, I believe that the universe supports that approach, it is at its best when it is a wellspring of opportunity rather a brick wall of unalterable canon. If the loose ends are never tired up, it doesn’t matter – the interest is in what the character or theme. French’s zombie story is certainly the exemplar of this.
The fun stuff
The Shattered Legions concept continues to appeal to me. The writers tend to emphasise each Legion’s quirks and how they interact with each other, such as the Raven Guard’s Sharrowkyn’s pairing with the Iron Hand’s Wayland:
’‘So you’ve interfaced with this kind of system before?
’‘I have studied it extensively,’ said Wayland.
‘Studied it?’ said Sharrowkyn, spotting the deflection. ‘You mean you’ve never actually used something like this?’
‘Not as such, but I am confident I will be able to interface successfully,’ said Wayland, lifting a connector plug and sliding it home in the base of his modified gorget.
‘I’ll remind you of that if we have to run for our lives,’ said Sharrowkyn.
Kyme gets a large amount of opprobrium for his Salamanders trilogy in the Horus Heresy, but I thought he nailed the tone with Thiel and the Ultramarines on Calth, using a competent human’s sacrifice as a touchstone:
‘You brave and foolish bastard. You followed me onto the surface anyway.’
Vultius follows Thiel’s gaze. ‘A conscript? Penal legion?’
Thiel shakes his head. ‘A farmer, a husband and a father.’
Thorpe takes a similar approach with those Therions who have doggedly supported the Raven Guard survivors – realistically an entire Horus Heresy book based on the Imperial Guard is not possible, but a short story or two allows a reasonable amount of focus on them.
There are also plenty of Traitor Legion material as well. Lucius the Eternal is actually… …alright as an arrogant villain, crafting a counter to the mind-reading of his opponent. Ahriman and the Thousand Sons continue to debate and apply philosophy to the situation at hand:
Amon laughed derisively. ‘And you think we can stop it? Now who’s being arrogant?’
‘You have been away from the Legion too long, Amon,’ Ahriman growled. ‘Your wanderings take you to the farthest corners of the world, but what have you learned? Nothing.’
Amon stepped close to him. ‘Then I have learned as much as you, Ahzek.’
As for the World Eaters – they’re nuts, they’re Primarch is nuts, and they will always be nuts. But every now and then they hint at competency:
‘It was good to purge some of the bad blood between us,’ Angron said. To his credit, he kept his rebellious muscles from twitching, no matter how the Butcher’s Nails stabbed at his nervous system.
‘For now,’ Lorgar agreed. ‘Let neither of us pretend it will last forever.’
And I am willing to pretend I will enjoy these compilations forever.
A bit of a circle back in terms of order of reading but the plot of the Horus Heresy moves slowly enough that there were not too many spoilers.
Place no trust in me
She pressed the muzzle of the stolen pistol to her temple. Her attendants were running, shrieking, weeping. ‘For the Emperor,’ she told them. Navigator Nisha Andrasta pulled the trigger and tore the Conqueror from the warp in a cascade of screaming, tortured metal.
I probably should damn this book. It is a compilation of stories published elsewhere before, and they lack connective tissue or theme other than some Legions getting more “air time” than others (the World Eaters particularly benefiting). The novella that anchors it is passable rather than great, and even then that is mostly because I have accepted that the White Scars and their Primarch have to be impervious to logic and etiquette for the purposes of their personality trait of “ambiguity”. I will never love their portrayal, but resigning myself to their foibles did allow me to appreciate the novel slightly more.
I am going to argue for some of the other stories being above average, but Legacies of Betrayal is probably evidence of not just subjectivity between reviewers but the mood the reviewer was in at the time. I had not read any Horus Heresy books in awhile and was therefore less fatigued by the jumping around and some stories forcing me to peruse the relevant wiki articles in the absence of contextual clues.
Yet it just seemed good, and fun, where the shorter format allows for a range of stories – I am relatively pro compilation, I believe that the universe supports that approach, it is at its best when it is a wellspring of opportunity rather a brick wall of unalterable canon. If the loose ends are never tired up, it doesn’t matter – the interest is in what the character or theme. French’s zombie story is certainly the exemplar of this.
The fun stuff
The Shattered Legions concept continues to appeal to me. The writers tend to emphasise each Legion’s quirks and how they interact with each other, such as the Raven Guard’s Sharrowkyn’s pairing with the Iron Hand’s Wayland:
’‘So you’ve interfaced with this kind of system before?
’‘I have studied it extensively,’ said Wayland.
‘Studied it?’ said Sharrowkyn, spotting the deflection. ‘You mean you’ve never actually used something like this?’
‘Not as such, but I am confident I will be able to interface successfully,’ said Wayland, lifting a connector plug and sliding it home in the base of his modified gorget.
‘I’ll remind you of that if we have to run for our lives,’ said Sharrowkyn.
Kyme gets a large amount of opprobrium for his Salamanders trilogy in the Horus Heresy, but I thought he nailed the tone with Thiel and the Ultramarines on Calth, using a competent human’s sacrifice as a touchstone:
‘You brave and foolish bastard. You followed me onto the surface anyway.’
Vultius follows Thiel’s gaze. ‘A conscript? Penal legion?’
Thiel shakes his head. ‘A farmer, a husband and a father.’
Thorpe takes a similar approach with those Therions who have doggedly supported the Raven Guard survivors – realistically an entire Horus Heresy book based on the Imperial Guard is not possible, but a short story or two allows a reasonable amount of focus on them.
There are also plenty of Traitor Legion material as well. Lucius the Eternal is actually… …alright as an arrogant villain, crafting a counter to the mind-reading of his opponent. Ahriman and the Thousand Sons continue to debate and apply philosophy to the situation at hand:
Amon laughed derisively. ‘And you think we can stop it? Now who’s being arrogant?’
‘You have been away from the Legion too long, Amon,’ Ahriman growled. ‘Your wanderings take you to the farthest corners of the world, but what have you learned? Nothing.’
Amon stepped close to him. ‘Then I have learned as much as you, Ahzek.’
As for the World Eaters – they’re nuts, they’re Primarch is nuts, and they will always be nuts. But every now and then they hint at competency:
‘It was good to purge some of the bad blood between us,’ Angron said. To his credit, he kept his rebellious muscles from twitching, no matter how the Butcher’s Nails stabbed at his nervous system.
‘For now,’ Lorgar agreed. ‘Let neither of us pretend it will last forever.’
And I am willing to pretend I will enjoy these compilations forever.
April 28, 2024
April 2024 Read using the Horus Heresy Omnibus Project Reading Order (https://www.heresyomnibus.com/) as part of my Oath of Moment to complete the Horus Heresy series and extras.
And another I didn't realise had already bitten the dust!
This is a real bumper pack with so many of the Black Library Advent Calendar short stories many regular readers may have missed.
I can imagine this not being so much fun for somone who was up to date and hoping for a new Horus Heresy novel, but it was necessary to collect these things for everyone. I just think the anthologies should have been separate to the main series.
There are all sorts from all over of all qualities, but I am especially fond of those starring Khârn and Bjorn in this collection.
I have reviewed each entry separately on here.
Through using the Horus Heresy Omnibus Project (www.heresyomnibus.com) and my own choices, I have currently read 37 Horus Heresy novels (including 1 repeat and 4 anthologies), 22 novellas (including 2 repeats), 112 short stories/ audio dramas (including 6 repeats), as well as the Macragge's Honour graphic novel, 16 Primarchs novels, 4 Primarchs short stories/ audio dramas, 2 Characters novels, and 2 Warhammer 40K further reading novels and 1 short story...this run, as well as writing 1 short story myself (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1t...). I can't say enough good about the way the Horus Heresy Omnibus Project suggestions. I'm loving it! Especially after originally reading to the releases and being so frustrated at having to wait so long for a narrative to continue
And another I didn't realise had already bitten the dust!
This is a real bumper pack with so many of the Black Library Advent Calendar short stories many regular readers may have missed.
I can imagine this not being so much fun for somone who was up to date and hoping for a new Horus Heresy novel, but it was necessary to collect these things for everyone. I just think the anthologies should have been separate to the main series.
There are all sorts from all over of all qualities, but I am especially fond of those starring Khârn and Bjorn in this collection.
I have reviewed each entry separately on here.
Through using the Horus Heresy Omnibus Project (www.heresyomnibus.com) and my own choices, I have currently read 37 Horus Heresy novels (including 1 repeat and 4 anthologies), 22 novellas (including 2 repeats), 112 short stories/ audio dramas (including 6 repeats), as well as the Macragge's Honour graphic novel, 16 Primarchs novels, 4 Primarchs short stories/ audio dramas, 2 Characters novels, and 2 Warhammer 40K further reading novels and 1 short story...this run, as well as writing 1 short story myself (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1t...). I can't say enough good about the way the Horus Heresy Omnibus Project suggestions. I'm loving it! Especially after originally reading to the releases and being so frustrated at having to wait so long for a narrative to continue
March 26, 2024
A collection of stories. It was good for what it was worth. Wasn't really a fan of the main stories. But a lot of the others made up for it. Especially the Angron story.
April 19, 2026
I really enjoyed this anthology in the series. Sometimes the stories in these anthologies are not always good but every story in this one was great. It was good to read about some awesome characters and fill some gaps in their stories. Best anthology book in the series so far.
August 13, 2019
This anthology was a little different than others in the Horus Heresy series, as some of these stories were very short, some just a few paragraphs. The effect was perfect though! The shorter stories jettisoned us across the universe, briefly dropping in on what would seem to be minuscule events, only their monumental in the Heresy timeline. My favorite of the stories was "Censure" the tale of 2 Ultramarines and their run in with interesting foes. Great anthology, great book and one of the "must reads" in the Heresy series.
March 16, 2026
Another Horus Heresy anthology, what a treat... Like the previous ones, this one doesn't really add much to the main plot. But unlike the previous, this one I can recomend since it has multiple good stories which makes it worth the read. The White Scars one as well as the Ultramarine ones are quite good self contained stories.
May 8, 2022
These short story collections in the series really are grating at the best of times, absolute filler and rarely interesting. This is the worst of them all so far - not a single story is interesting, relevant or well written. Absolute trash from start to end.
February 11, 2018
First finished book of Finish February!
This collection of short stories felt more cohesive than previous collections and it pulled you along story after story.
This collection of short stories felt more cohesive than previous collections and it pulled you along story after story.
September 27, 2023
Some neat short stories however I feel some caused a lot of continuity errors, like the captain of the iron hands was on Istavaan right? Bjorn not speaking before killing that daemon? Despite in an earlier book he speaks to the smith
Some pretty cool books in it tho, more scars love as usual and I’m all for it
Some pretty cool books in it tho, more scars love as usual and I’m all for it
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2024
How about Black library start including these throw away stories in with the books they refer too instead of letting the reader try piece it all together. Three or four of the stories contained within were worth a damn.
March 4, 2025
A surprisingly good anthology - loads of different stories with varying lengths that keep it fresh and interesting
September 2, 2025
The short stories are always a mixed bag, but this set seemed to lean into snappy fast fiction which serves the arching narrative well! Little glimpses into perspectives of the war, seldom outstaying their welcome, really sold the enormity of the setting! Diverse protagonists, perhaps not viable for longer pieces, really get a chance to shine here!
March 31, 2020
Some really enjoyable stories.
March 14, 2016
Brotherhood of the Storm (****) I am not a big White Scars fan; this story changed that. I enjoyed the three different perspectives and how each unlocked a little bit about the V Legion. It was over 120+ pages but really good action kept you reading. Also Chondax is an interesting planet.
Serpent (**) Not sure about this one really. I might be missing the overall context w/in the HH setting.
Hunter's Moon (**) Didn't care for the narrator. Space Wolves and Alpha Legion though, so 2.5 stars.
Veritas Ferrum (***) Iron Warriors are growing on me.
Riven (**) Interesting but took too long to develop and lacked the action that could have been part of it.
Strike and Fade (***)Salamanders getting some revenge.
Honour to the Dead (*****) I'd give it way more stars if I could. Titans, Calth, Ultramarines and civilians. It was amazing to get about four different perspectives especially those of the regular citizens of Calth. Well Done.
Butcher's Nails (*****) It had everything you could want from a story about the World Eaters and Lorgar. Lotara maybe my favorite ship Captain.
Warmaster (*****) Short and poignant. Similar to an earlier short about Horus right after the Emperor makes him Warmaster.
Kryptos (*****) Raven Guard and Iron Hand meets Mission Impossible.
Wolf's Claw (***) Space Wolves. Bjorn. That should sum it up.
Thief of Revelations (*****) Ahriman and Magnus. Good story.
The Divine Word (****) I feel like this story was a little forced but still good to see the Imperial Guard of Therion back in action.
Lucius: The Eternal Blademaster (*****)Its Lucius and a surprise appearance of another of my favorites CSM. Leaves some big loose ends that I hope wind up with their own book.
Khârn: The Eightfold Path (****)Wish it was longer.
Cypher: Guardian of Order (**)Needed more.
Heart of the Conqueror (*****)Interesting look at the Astropaths.
Censure (****) Thiel is back and doing what he does best. Being insubordinate.
Bjorn: Lone Wolf (*****) short but really good. Captured a mood really well.
Serpent (**) Not sure about this one really. I might be missing the overall context w/in the HH setting.
Hunter's Moon (**) Didn't care for the narrator. Space Wolves and Alpha Legion though, so 2.5 stars.
Veritas Ferrum (***) Iron Warriors are growing on me.
Riven (**) Interesting but took too long to develop and lacked the action that could have been part of it.
Strike and Fade (***)Salamanders getting some revenge.
Honour to the Dead (*****) I'd give it way more stars if I could. Titans, Calth, Ultramarines and civilians. It was amazing to get about four different perspectives especially those of the regular citizens of Calth. Well Done.
Butcher's Nails (*****) It had everything you could want from a story about the World Eaters and Lorgar. Lotara maybe my favorite ship Captain.
Warmaster (*****) Short and poignant. Similar to an earlier short about Horus right after the Emperor makes him Warmaster.
Kryptos (*****) Raven Guard and Iron Hand meets Mission Impossible.
Wolf's Claw (***) Space Wolves. Bjorn. That should sum it up.
Thief of Revelations (*****) Ahriman and Magnus. Good story.
The Divine Word (****) I feel like this story was a little forced but still good to see the Imperial Guard of Therion back in action.
Lucius: The Eternal Blademaster (*****)Its Lucius and a surprise appearance of another of my favorites CSM. Leaves some big loose ends that I hope wind up with their own book.
Khârn: The Eightfold Path (****)Wish it was longer.
Cypher: Guardian of Order (**)Needed more.
Heart of the Conqueror (*****)Interesting look at the Astropaths.
Censure (****) Thiel is back and doing what he does best. Being insubordinate.
Bjorn: Lone Wolf (*****) short but really good. Captured a mood really well.
January 25, 2015
A collection of previously available short stories, novellas and text versions of audio dramas. A good way to catch some of the stuff you may have missed whether you don't enjoy the audio dramas, haven't gotten hold of the "exclusives" or refuse to pay the outlandish prices charged for the micro short stories. A few of them are bit out of place though, Lone Wolf and Lucius the Eternal Blade Master are bit farther in the future than anything previously published as Horus Heresy, into the Scouring for Lone Wolf perhaps and even further for Lucius.
The included stories are:
Brotherhood of the Storm by Chris Wraight
Serpent by John French
Hunter's Moon by Guy Haley
Veritas Ferrum by David Annandale
Riven by John French
Strike and Fade by Guy Haley
Honour to the Dead by Gav Thorpe
Butcher's Nails by Aaron Dembski-Bowden
Warmaster by John French
Kryptos by Graham McNeill
Wolf's Claw by Chris Wraight
Thief of Revelations by Graham McNeill
The Divine Word by Gav Thorpe
Lucius: The Eternal Blademaster by Graham McNeill
Khârn: The Eightfold Path by Anthony Reynolds
Cypher: Guardian of Order by Gav Thorpe
Heart of the Conqueror by Aaron Dembski-Bowden
Censure by Nick Kyme
Bjorn: Lone Wolf by Chris Wraight
The included stories are:
Brotherhood of the Storm by Chris Wraight
Serpent by John French
Hunter's Moon by Guy Haley
Veritas Ferrum by David Annandale
Riven by John French
Strike and Fade by Guy Haley
Honour to the Dead by Gav Thorpe
Butcher's Nails by Aaron Dembski-Bowden
Warmaster by John French
Kryptos by Graham McNeill
Wolf's Claw by Chris Wraight
Thief of Revelations by Graham McNeill
The Divine Word by Gav Thorpe
Lucius: The Eternal Blademaster by Graham McNeill
Khârn: The Eightfold Path by Anthony Reynolds
Cypher: Guardian of Order by Gav Thorpe
Heart of the Conqueror by Aaron Dembski-Bowden
Censure by Nick Kyme
Bjorn: Lone Wolf by Chris Wraight
September 17, 2025
Brotherhood of the Storm by Chris Wraight *****
“More than a century has passed since I was a child. I ought to be wiser, and I ought to have left my memories behind me, but we never leave our childhood behind us: we carry it with us, and it whispers to us, reminding us of the paths we could have taken.”
Our first introduction to the White Scars in the Horus Heresy is elegantly and poetically written by Chris Wraight.
Under Wraight's pen the White Scars are complex and layered. The world-building feels natural as we learn more about them through their actions rather than a text blurb.
The story introduces us to four characters:
Shiban Khan - White Scar from Chogoris
Torghun Khan - White Scar from Terra
Targutai Yesugei - Stormseer (White Scar Psyker)
General Ilya Ravallion - Departmento Munitorum
Through these characters we see different aspects of the Legion's nature. Each one of these characters feel well-rounded and layered. Shiban and Torghun demonstrate different aspects of the Legion, those who have fully embraced Chogorian culture, and those who have adhere to a more "Imperial" nature (Torghun uses the terms "company" and "captain" instead of "order" and "Khan" while using tactics reminiscent of the Luna Wolves). This cultural divide will go on to play a larger role in "Scars".
Yesugei provides a look at Chogorisian culture and their relationship of the warp and their philosophy on life and war. Ilya Ravallion is the outsider, unfamiliar with the customs of the White Scars, but willing to learn.
As well as providing compelling characters, Wraight provides action that is exciting and intense, and felt meaningful to the story being told. A must read for fans of the Heresy.
"Laugh when you are killing."
"Serpent" by John French **
A Davinite Priest interrupts a Chaos ceremony. The faithful that have gathered are disturbed by his powers, never truly expecting such an exhibition of the primordial powers to be displayed.
I like the atmosphere of the story, but it lacks purpose. It is unclear what part of the larger narrative this serves, it felt like a scene from a much larger story.
"Hunter's Moon" by Guy Haley ****
A big theme throughout the Heresy and especially in Prospero Burns, was that of stories. That what is true is what is passed on. Malcador the Sigillite controls the path of the Imperium by sanctioning information or destroying it. The remembrancers were the hope of a Golden Age, only to be pushed aside in the wake of the Heresy. The Space Wolves have their Skjalds, who pass on stories in an oral tradition. (In the 40k setting in the story “The Price of Morkai” by Marc Collins, has Space Wolves recounting the tale of a fallen brother).
All of that is significant because the framing device of this story is an old man recounting a tale from his youth to a young boy. This saga is of a lone Space Wolf, in the wake of the Burning of Prospero, being hunted down by the Alpha Legion.
While not essential to the Heresy, I think this story does a lot thematically that is interesting and I enjoyed the atmosphere of the tale.
"Veritas Ferrum" by David Annandale ****
This (very) short story serves as a prologue to "The Damnation of Pythos.
The Veritas Ferrum is a ship of the Iron Hands Legion that arrived late to Isstvan V. Under fire from Traitors, the Legionaries on board refuse to believe the reports of their Primarch's death.
This story serves to provide an insight into the lines that will fracture and divide the surviving Legionaries. There will be a gulf of experience between those who were on the surface of Isstvan V and those who were not. The story of the Shattered Legions isn't just about reforming in the face of defeat, but of becoming increasingly fractured and divided.
"Riven" by John French ****
"Ferrus Manus is dead... He failed us. He broke the bond of iron. He fell and left us to live on without him."
Crius of the Crusader Host was stationed on Terra when the battle for Isstvan V occurred. He was not there the day his father died, when his brothers were slaughtered. Instead he was imprisoned, no one was free from suspicion in the wake of the Heresy. What happens next is a bleak and bitter story of loss.
Sigismund makes an appearance and delivers orders from Lord Dorn, Praetorian of Terra. His order to Crius is simple "find your brothers". Crius is accompanied by Boreas of the Imperial Fists.
This is a story of mourning and grief. Crius' beliefs have been shaken to the core, everything he believed feels false and there is no hope. The emotions of the story are intense.
The story is picked up again in "Keys of Hel".
"Strike and Fade" by Guy Haley ****
Brief but entertaining story.
Four Salamanders who have survived the initial massacre on Isstvan V continue to fight on despite the odds against them.
"Honour to the Dead" by Gav Thorpe ****
"Hope is but the first step on the road to disappointment, brother. You can fight for hope if you wish. I will fight to bring honour to the dead."
Titans clash in the city of Ithica and the common people of Calth suffer. The Ultramarines have been betrayed by their once allies, the Word Bearers, and caught up in the carnage is a woman, struggling to get to safety with her baby.
The civilian perspective doesn't often get a lot of focus in the Heresy, so I appreciate the change of pace. The scale of conflict is horrifying and brutal even for those in power armour, let alone a normal human.
"Butcher's Nails" by Aaron Dembski-Bowden *****
"Nothing was as honest as rage - throughout the history of the human race, what release of emotion had ever been more worthy and true than depthless anger? A parent confronting their child's killer. A farmer defending his family against raiders. The warrior avenging the deaths of his brothers. In rage, anything was justified. It was the highest state of sentience. With rage came vindication, and with vindication came peace."
This short story serves as a prequel to "Betrayer" also written by ADB.
Lorgar and Angron were ordered to bring the 500 worlds of Ultramar to its knees. But Angron's lack of control and refusal to co-operate has come to a head, as both Word Bearer and World Eater fleets are prepared to battle.
Angron is broken, he knows that but perhaps not how deep the damage is. He chases the peace that only bloodshed can provide and has lost sight of any grander plan. His rage is threatening Lorgar's plans and ambitions, and Lorgar's patience can only extend so far.
Lorgar's relationship with Angron is one of the most interesting aspects of "Betrayer" so I'm glad we get to see the beginning of it here. Lorgar seems to genuinely be concerned for his brother, even as he is frustrated by Angron's behaviour. The death of Ferrus seems to have shaken Lorgar somewhat, almost as if he hasn't fully accepted his treachery has killed a brother. This goes on to play a much larger role in the plot of Betrayer.
This short story also introduces us to Lotarra Sorin, Captain of the Conqueror and one of the coolest human characters in the Heresy. We also briefly meet Officer Tobin, one of the few bridge crew members that is mentioned consistently. This is the start of Lotarra's story which continues in Betrayer, Heart of the Conqueror, a Rose Watered with Blood, and other stories later in the Heresy.
"Warmaster" by John French *****
"The fire is lit, and all that was is cast to the wind. We are committed - he and I, my brothers and our Legions. All humanity's futures bound together in this circle of blood. We are all the storm now. The Imperium will fall and rise by my hand. Or fall, and fall, and fall."
A truly fantastic soliloquy delivered by Horus to his brother's skull (very Hamlet and Yorick). A stirring look inside the Warmaster's soul in the aftermath of Isstvan V. The game has begun and cannot be stopped, each player must play their role.
"Strange is it not, that so many I wish beside me stand against me, while at my back are only the flawed and damaged. I am a master of broken monsters."
Horus laments his choice of allies. His treacherous brothers proving poor bed-mates. Uncontrollable and monstrous, they are giving into base desires and becoming twisted perversions of divinity.
"It does not matter how the galaxy burns, only that it does."
"Kryptos" by Graham McNeill ***
A perfectly fine if not a bit trite short story that introduces two survivors of Isstvan V, who are working together against the Dark Mechanicum. These two characters appear again in a number of stories like "Angel Exterminatus" "The Seventh Serpent" and "The Sons of Selenar". So, for a completionist I can understand wanting to read this story.
"Wolf's Claw" by Chris Wraight
Bjorn lost his hand at Prospero, earning the epithet “One-hand” and now seeks a replacement from the forgemaster deep in the bowels of the flagship.
It’s an incredibly simple story, Bjorn wants a new hand and he gets a new hand. But it is written with such style and pathos that I found myself completely enthralled.
The Alpha legion would grow to fear the one they called Bjorn the Fell-hand.
"Thief of Revelations" by Graham McNeill ****
After the burning of Prospero, the Thousand Sons have fled to the Warp. On the planet of the Sorcerers, Ahriman is studying to find a cure to the Flesh Change which is reaking havoc on his Legion. The Crimson King has locked himself away in his obsidian tower, many of his sons feel abandoned. Ahriman seeks out his father for answers, only to be taken on a tour through the Warp to view the unfolding Heresy.
Fun and atmospheric audio drama. I enjoyed seeing a young Ahriman seeking for a cure to the Flesh Change, knowing how that quest would continue into the 41st Millenium (see John French’s incredible Ahriman series). The relationship between Magnus and Ahriman is an interesting parallel to that of the Emperor and Magnus. Fathers and Sons making the same mistakes again and again.
I enjoy when the Heresy leans into mysticism and tragedy so this was a good time.
"The Divine Word" by Gav Thorpe ***
Prior to the events of this story, in “Raven’s Flight” Marcus Valerius of the Imperial Army was stationed on Deliverance along with Captain Branne of the Raven Guard. Corax had lead the bulk of his Legion to Isstvan V to deal with his treacherous brothers. Haunted by dreams, Valerius approached Branne multiple times about his visions. Eventually the two take the fleet to Istvan V, just in time to save Corax and what remained of the Legion as shown in “The Faces of Treachery”. Corax would then attempt to rebuild the Raven Guard in “Deliverance Lost”.
As this story begins Marcus Valerius leads the Therion Cohort, working in concert with Commander Branne of the Raven Guard. So far the Therion Cohort have failed to capture the city of Milvian, a victory that the campaign hinges upon.
Pelon, manservant to Valerius has been exposed to the writings of the Imperial Cult, and appears to believe his master’s visions come from none other than the Emperor himself. Valerius is keeping his visions to himself, knowing they have no place in the secular Imperium. But as the pressure of the galactic civil war increases and treachery abounds, many look to the comfort of faith and worship to get them through the shadow cast by the traitor Horus.
Valerius later appears in the short story the “Weregeld” and the audio drama “Valerius”.
Commander Branne also appears in Corax: Soulforge and in the short story “The Weregeld”.
"Lucius: The Eternal Blademaster" by Graham McNeill ****
Lucius has always been an insufferable cringing vain swordsman, and death has not made him any more likeable.
Following his Primarch's apotheosis in "Angels Extermninatus" Lucius has decided to walk his own path, tracking down the best duelists among the Legions so that he can defeat them. Making his way to the Planet of the Sorceror's he challenges Sanakht to a duel.
"Khârn: The Eightfold Path" by Anthony Reynolds *****
"The camaraderie of my fellow World Eaters cannot raise a smile from me. Food tastes like ashes. There is no joy to be had but that found in killing. Opening arteries, cleaving flesh, taking skulls - this is what the Nails want from me."
Set shortly after the events of Betrayer, Kharn is uneasy with the changes in his Legion. Their bloodthirst is only growing worse, and the bonds of fraternity disintegrating. The nails pound in his mind, costing him his sanity. The Conqueror is becoming a charnel house as its lord languishes in chains.
The Eaters of Worlds are forever broken. Tragic and well-executed by Anthony Reynolds.
"Cypher: Guardian of Order" by Gav Thorpe ****
In “Descent of Angels” the Lion and the Order waged war in the Northwilds against the Knights of Lupus. An order that sought to use the dark powers of the Beasts of Caliban. The Knights of Lupus were destroyed and their fortress razed. Now Librarian Zahariel accompanies the Lord Cypher into the Northwilds, as an ancient evil begins to stir again.
I thought the story was atmospheric and spooky and the story sets out that things are turning dark on Caliban, and that not all is well under the rule of Luther.
"Heart of the Conqueror" by Aaron Dembski-Bowden *****
Shortly after the events of "Betrayer" Navigator Nisha Andrasta, Mistress of the Conqueror feels the changes in the ship-spirit. There is a thing buried deep in the bowels of the ship, locked away. It is angry, and it's dury is infecting the bones of the ship, changing it into something brutal and cruel.
Very brief story but very atmospheric and captures the horror chaos has brought to the galaxy.
"Censure" by Nick Kyme ***
Calth is an irradiated wasteland, the survivors of the Word Bearer’s assault now hide deep underground. But down in the dark there are monsters, and the war for Calth rages on. And Sergeant Aeonid Thiel will be the one to kill them. Sergeant Thiel first appeared in “Know no Fear” and returned in “Calth that Was”. Now he works alongside a non-augmented human to Guardsman Rowd, to fight back against the Word Bearers.
To me this story felt like a very tongue-in-cheek blockbuster action movie. Gratuitous in violence, with cheesy one-liners from Sergeant Thiel. This isn’t epic sci-fi opera Heresy, or morose tragedy Heresy, it’s action man Heresy. I appreciate that tonally this doesn’t fit in with any of the other Underground War stories of Calth but I did have fun reading it.
The antagonist of this short story is Dark Apostle Kurtha Sedd, who Warhammer fans may recognise as the Chaplain miniature that came in the Betrayal at Calth boxset. He also appeared in the novella “The Unburdened”. I thought that was a fun bit of continuity.
If you enjoyed this short story and want to continue Sergeant Thiel’s story, he later appears in “Unremembered Empire”, “Red-Marked” and “Stratagem”.
"Bjorn: Lone Wolf" by Chris Wraight ****
A basic enough story that is well-executed. Bjorn finally gets his revenge on the Daemon that slew his packmates. His long solitude can finally come to an end. Exciting visceral action that also adds some depth to a pre-established important character.
“More than a century has passed since I was a child. I ought to be wiser, and I ought to have left my memories behind me, but we never leave our childhood behind us: we carry it with us, and it whispers to us, reminding us of the paths we could have taken.”
Our first introduction to the White Scars in the Horus Heresy is elegantly and poetically written by Chris Wraight.
Under Wraight's pen the White Scars are complex and layered. The world-building feels natural as we learn more about them through their actions rather than a text blurb.
The story introduces us to four characters:
Shiban Khan - White Scar from Chogoris
Torghun Khan - White Scar from Terra
Targutai Yesugei - Stormseer (White Scar Psyker)
General Ilya Ravallion - Departmento Munitorum
Through these characters we see different aspects of the Legion's nature. Each one of these characters feel well-rounded and layered. Shiban and Torghun demonstrate different aspects of the Legion, those who have fully embraced Chogorian culture, and those who have adhere to a more "Imperial" nature (Torghun uses the terms "company" and "captain" instead of "order" and "Khan" while using tactics reminiscent of the Luna Wolves). This cultural divide will go on to play a larger role in "Scars".
Yesugei provides a look at Chogorisian culture and their relationship of the warp and their philosophy on life and war. Ilya Ravallion is the outsider, unfamiliar with the customs of the White Scars, but willing to learn.
As well as providing compelling characters, Wraight provides action that is exciting and intense, and felt meaningful to the story being told. A must read for fans of the Heresy.
"Laugh when you are killing."
"Serpent" by John French **
A Davinite Priest interrupts a Chaos ceremony. The faithful that have gathered are disturbed by his powers, never truly expecting such an exhibition of the primordial powers to be displayed.
I like the atmosphere of the story, but it lacks purpose. It is unclear what part of the larger narrative this serves, it felt like a scene from a much larger story.
"Hunter's Moon" by Guy Haley ****
A big theme throughout the Heresy and especially in Prospero Burns, was that of stories. That what is true is what is passed on. Malcador the Sigillite controls the path of the Imperium by sanctioning information or destroying it. The remembrancers were the hope of a Golden Age, only to be pushed aside in the wake of the Heresy. The Space Wolves have their Skjalds, who pass on stories in an oral tradition. (In the 40k setting in the story “The Price of Morkai” by Marc Collins, has Space Wolves recounting the tale of a fallen brother).
All of that is significant because the framing device of this story is an old man recounting a tale from his youth to a young boy. This saga is of a lone Space Wolf, in the wake of the Burning of Prospero, being hunted down by the Alpha Legion.
While not essential to the Heresy, I think this story does a lot thematically that is interesting and I enjoyed the atmosphere of the tale.
"Veritas Ferrum" by David Annandale ****
This (very) short story serves as a prologue to "The Damnation of Pythos.
The Veritas Ferrum is a ship of the Iron Hands Legion that arrived late to Isstvan V. Under fire from Traitors, the Legionaries on board refuse to believe the reports of their Primarch's death.
This story serves to provide an insight into the lines that will fracture and divide the surviving Legionaries. There will be a gulf of experience between those who were on the surface of Isstvan V and those who were not. The story of the Shattered Legions isn't just about reforming in the face of defeat, but of becoming increasingly fractured and divided.
"Riven" by John French ****
"Ferrus Manus is dead... He failed us. He broke the bond of iron. He fell and left us to live on without him."
Crius of the Crusader Host was stationed on Terra when the battle for Isstvan V occurred. He was not there the day his father died, when his brothers were slaughtered. Instead he was imprisoned, no one was free from suspicion in the wake of the Heresy. What happens next is a bleak and bitter story of loss.
Sigismund makes an appearance and delivers orders from Lord Dorn, Praetorian of Terra. His order to Crius is simple "find your brothers". Crius is accompanied by Boreas of the Imperial Fists.
This is a story of mourning and grief. Crius' beliefs have been shaken to the core, everything he believed feels false and there is no hope. The emotions of the story are intense.
The story is picked up again in "Keys of Hel".
"Strike and Fade" by Guy Haley ****
Brief but entertaining story.
Four Salamanders who have survived the initial massacre on Isstvan V continue to fight on despite the odds against them.
"Honour to the Dead" by Gav Thorpe ****
"Hope is but the first step on the road to disappointment, brother. You can fight for hope if you wish. I will fight to bring honour to the dead."
Titans clash in the city of Ithica and the common people of Calth suffer. The Ultramarines have been betrayed by their once allies, the Word Bearers, and caught up in the carnage is a woman, struggling to get to safety with her baby.
The civilian perspective doesn't often get a lot of focus in the Heresy, so I appreciate the change of pace. The scale of conflict is horrifying and brutal even for those in power armour, let alone a normal human.
"Butcher's Nails" by Aaron Dembski-Bowden *****
"Nothing was as honest as rage - throughout the history of the human race, what release of emotion had ever been more worthy and true than depthless anger? A parent confronting their child's killer. A farmer defending his family against raiders. The warrior avenging the deaths of his brothers. In rage, anything was justified. It was the highest state of sentience. With rage came vindication, and with vindication came peace."
This short story serves as a prequel to "Betrayer" also written by ADB.
Lorgar and Angron were ordered to bring the 500 worlds of Ultramar to its knees. But Angron's lack of control and refusal to co-operate has come to a head, as both Word Bearer and World Eater fleets are prepared to battle.
Angron is broken, he knows that but perhaps not how deep the damage is. He chases the peace that only bloodshed can provide and has lost sight of any grander plan. His rage is threatening Lorgar's plans and ambitions, and Lorgar's patience can only extend so far.
Lorgar's relationship with Angron is one of the most interesting aspects of "Betrayer" so I'm glad we get to see the beginning of it here. Lorgar seems to genuinely be concerned for his brother, even as he is frustrated by Angron's behaviour. The death of Ferrus seems to have shaken Lorgar somewhat, almost as if he hasn't fully accepted his treachery has killed a brother. This goes on to play a much larger role in the plot of Betrayer.
This short story also introduces us to Lotarra Sorin, Captain of the Conqueror and one of the coolest human characters in the Heresy. We also briefly meet Officer Tobin, one of the few bridge crew members that is mentioned consistently. This is the start of Lotarra's story which continues in Betrayer, Heart of the Conqueror, a Rose Watered with Blood, and other stories later in the Heresy.
"Warmaster" by John French *****
"The fire is lit, and all that was is cast to the wind. We are committed - he and I, my brothers and our Legions. All humanity's futures bound together in this circle of blood. We are all the storm now. The Imperium will fall and rise by my hand. Or fall, and fall, and fall."
A truly fantastic soliloquy delivered by Horus to his brother's skull (very Hamlet and Yorick). A stirring look inside the Warmaster's soul in the aftermath of Isstvan V. The game has begun and cannot be stopped, each player must play their role.
"Strange is it not, that so many I wish beside me stand against me, while at my back are only the flawed and damaged. I am a master of broken monsters."
Horus laments his choice of allies. His treacherous brothers proving poor bed-mates. Uncontrollable and monstrous, they are giving into base desires and becoming twisted perversions of divinity.
"It does not matter how the galaxy burns, only that it does."
"Kryptos" by Graham McNeill ***
A perfectly fine if not a bit trite short story that introduces two survivors of Isstvan V, who are working together against the Dark Mechanicum. These two characters appear again in a number of stories like "Angel Exterminatus" "The Seventh Serpent" and "The Sons of Selenar". So, for a completionist I can understand wanting to read this story.
"Wolf's Claw" by Chris Wraight
Bjorn lost his hand at Prospero, earning the epithet “One-hand” and now seeks a replacement from the forgemaster deep in the bowels of the flagship.
It’s an incredibly simple story, Bjorn wants a new hand and he gets a new hand. But it is written with such style and pathos that I found myself completely enthralled.
The Alpha legion would grow to fear the one they called Bjorn the Fell-hand.
"Thief of Revelations" by Graham McNeill ****
After the burning of Prospero, the Thousand Sons have fled to the Warp. On the planet of the Sorcerers, Ahriman is studying to find a cure to the Flesh Change which is reaking havoc on his Legion. The Crimson King has locked himself away in his obsidian tower, many of his sons feel abandoned. Ahriman seeks out his father for answers, only to be taken on a tour through the Warp to view the unfolding Heresy.
Fun and atmospheric audio drama. I enjoyed seeing a young Ahriman seeking for a cure to the Flesh Change, knowing how that quest would continue into the 41st Millenium (see John French’s incredible Ahriman series). The relationship between Magnus and Ahriman is an interesting parallel to that of the Emperor and Magnus. Fathers and Sons making the same mistakes again and again.
I enjoy when the Heresy leans into mysticism and tragedy so this was a good time.
"The Divine Word" by Gav Thorpe ***
Prior to the events of this story, in “Raven’s Flight” Marcus Valerius of the Imperial Army was stationed on Deliverance along with Captain Branne of the Raven Guard. Corax had lead the bulk of his Legion to Isstvan V to deal with his treacherous brothers. Haunted by dreams, Valerius approached Branne multiple times about his visions. Eventually the two take the fleet to Istvan V, just in time to save Corax and what remained of the Legion as shown in “The Faces of Treachery”. Corax would then attempt to rebuild the Raven Guard in “Deliverance Lost”.
As this story begins Marcus Valerius leads the Therion Cohort, working in concert with Commander Branne of the Raven Guard. So far the Therion Cohort have failed to capture the city of Milvian, a victory that the campaign hinges upon.
Pelon, manservant to Valerius has been exposed to the writings of the Imperial Cult, and appears to believe his master’s visions come from none other than the Emperor himself. Valerius is keeping his visions to himself, knowing they have no place in the secular Imperium. But as the pressure of the galactic civil war increases and treachery abounds, many look to the comfort of faith and worship to get them through the shadow cast by the traitor Horus.
Valerius later appears in the short story the “Weregeld” and the audio drama “Valerius”.
Commander Branne also appears in Corax: Soulforge and in the short story “The Weregeld”.
"Lucius: The Eternal Blademaster" by Graham McNeill ****
Lucius has always been an insufferable cringing vain swordsman, and death has not made him any more likeable.
Following his Primarch's apotheosis in "Angels Extermninatus" Lucius has decided to walk his own path, tracking down the best duelists among the Legions so that he can defeat them. Making his way to the Planet of the Sorceror's he challenges Sanakht to a duel.
"Khârn: The Eightfold Path" by Anthony Reynolds *****
"The camaraderie of my fellow World Eaters cannot raise a smile from me. Food tastes like ashes. There is no joy to be had but that found in killing. Opening arteries, cleaving flesh, taking skulls - this is what the Nails want from me."
Set shortly after the events of Betrayer, Kharn is uneasy with the changes in his Legion. Their bloodthirst is only growing worse, and the bonds of fraternity disintegrating. The nails pound in his mind, costing him his sanity. The Conqueror is becoming a charnel house as its lord languishes in chains.
The Eaters of Worlds are forever broken. Tragic and well-executed by Anthony Reynolds.
"Cypher: Guardian of Order" by Gav Thorpe ****
In “Descent of Angels” the Lion and the Order waged war in the Northwilds against the Knights of Lupus. An order that sought to use the dark powers of the Beasts of Caliban. The Knights of Lupus were destroyed and their fortress razed. Now Librarian Zahariel accompanies the Lord Cypher into the Northwilds, as an ancient evil begins to stir again.
I thought the story was atmospheric and spooky and the story sets out that things are turning dark on Caliban, and that not all is well under the rule of Luther.
"Heart of the Conqueror" by Aaron Dembski-Bowden *****
Shortly after the events of "Betrayer" Navigator Nisha Andrasta, Mistress of the Conqueror feels the changes in the ship-spirit. There is a thing buried deep in the bowels of the ship, locked away. It is angry, and it's dury is infecting the bones of the ship, changing it into something brutal and cruel.
Very brief story but very atmospheric and captures the horror chaos has brought to the galaxy.
"Censure" by Nick Kyme ***
Calth is an irradiated wasteland, the survivors of the Word Bearer’s assault now hide deep underground. But down in the dark there are monsters, and the war for Calth rages on. And Sergeant Aeonid Thiel will be the one to kill them. Sergeant Thiel first appeared in “Know no Fear” and returned in “Calth that Was”. Now he works alongside a non-augmented human to Guardsman Rowd, to fight back against the Word Bearers.
To me this story felt like a very tongue-in-cheek blockbuster action movie. Gratuitous in violence, with cheesy one-liners from Sergeant Thiel. This isn’t epic sci-fi opera Heresy, or morose tragedy Heresy, it’s action man Heresy. I appreciate that tonally this doesn’t fit in with any of the other Underground War stories of Calth but I did have fun reading it.
The antagonist of this short story is Dark Apostle Kurtha Sedd, who Warhammer fans may recognise as the Chaplain miniature that came in the Betrayal at Calth boxset. He also appeared in the novella “The Unburdened”. I thought that was a fun bit of continuity.
If you enjoyed this short story and want to continue Sergeant Thiel’s story, he later appears in “Unremembered Empire”, “Red-Marked” and “Stratagem”.
"Bjorn: Lone Wolf" by Chris Wraight ****
A basic enough story that is well-executed. Bjorn finally gets his revenge on the Daemon that slew his packmates. His long solitude can finally come to an end. Exciting visceral action that also adds some depth to a pre-established important character.
June 20, 2017
You can read the full review over at my blog:
For someone who was once as invested in the Horus Heresy as I was before I took a break from all reading, coming back to such a vast trove of stories is made easier when you have an anthology the likes of Legacies of Betrayal to ease you back in. Full of reprints of short stories, micro-short srories and audio dramas and novellas, Legacies covers the length and breadth of the ongoing Horus Heresy, giving you a great snapshot of what terrors are being wrought across the Imperium and the futile-seeming efforts of the heroes to stave off the worst. Highly recommended, especially if you need to ground yourself in the hows and whens and whats.
Note: This is a longer review than usual since there are nineteen stories of varying length in the anthology. Settle in for a long ride.
The first entry in the anthology is Chris Wraight’s Brotherhood of the Storm here. I have previously reviewed the novel , so you may read that review of it to get my thoughts on the novella. It was a fantastic read, even better than I remembered and with the help of hindsight I see also how it stands as one of the best examples of the relationships between mortals and Astartes depicted in the Heresy. And of course, the bonds forged in battle between different brothers of a Legion, before those bonds are sundered by treason and mistrust. And if you ever want to see Jaghatai Khan in action, then this should be your first stop for sure.
Rating: 9/10
Then we have John French’s micro-short Serpent which is a very brief snapshot of a Chaos ritual being performed by a priest of one of the Davinite Cults. We met the Davinites for the first time in Graham McNeill’s False Gods, the second novel in the series, when Horus was wounded during a battle on Davin and was attended to by the seemingly innocuous religious healers of the planet. Not quite sure what the relevance of the story is, but it is a decent look into the bloody rituals of those who have given away their all to the powers of Chaos.
Rating: 7/10
Guy Haley’s short story Hunter’s Moon is next. This one tells the tale, in first-person no less, of what happens when a Space Wolves Legionary crash-lands on an inconsequential world and is saved from death by some mortals. The fisherman Tidon makes for a wonderful narrator as he tells the audience of the final fate of the Space Wolves squad sent to the Alpha Legion to keep watch over them. After Magnus the Red defied the Emperor’s Decree Absolute and caused psychic mayhem on Terra itself, such squads of veteran Wolves were sent to all the other Legions as spies and watchdogs. We know little of the fate of most of them, but here in Hunter’s Moon we learn some grim tidings, and the resolution of the story packs enough of a punch that I’d say it is one of the best I’ve read in the series. Guy has a good command over his characters and there’s plenty of twists and bolter-action to keep you entertained.
Rating: 9/10
Then we move to the micro-short Veritas Ferrum by David Annandale as we are thrown back to the final stages of the Dropsite Massacre. Arriving late to the conflict, the Iron Hands vessel Veritas Ferrum finds itself fighting for survival among the treachery of four of the seven Legions sent to Isstvan III to bring Horus Lupercal and his fellow traitors to account. Captain Durun Atticus must face a stark choice in the middle of the massacre in the void: save a few desperate survivors of the Dropsite Massacre, brothers of his own Legion and cousins from the Salamanders and Raven Guard, or get out with his men and his ship intact. I remember reading this back when it was released and it was as awesome then as it was now. It is a haunting story of fighting against desperate odds and I loved it. This is also a prequel to David’s novel Damnation of Pythos.
Rating: 9.5/10
John French returns with Riven, which continues some of the themes of Veritas Ferrum before it. Back on Terra, First Captain Sigismund of the Imperial Fists enlists the help of an Iron Hands warrior to seek out survivors of the Dropsite Massacre and bring them to Terra to lend a hand in the defense of the throneworld against the inevitable invasion by Horus Lupercal. When Crius, First Vexilla of the Iron Hands, learns that his gene-father and patriarch Ferrus Manus is dead, something inside him just… breaks. That’s what John French deals with in this story. It is artfully done and focuses on how desperate and cold the Iron Hands have become following the betrayals of Isstvan and the death of Manus. The psychological trauma runs deep and for the exploration of that alone I recommend this story highly. There are some instances where one of the mysteries at the heart of the story become rather opaque to the understanding, but I think the ending is worth it all.
Rating: 9/10
The micro-short Strike and Fade by Guy Haley is next which tells the story of a small survivor squad of Salamanders on Isstvan V itself. Jo’phor, Hae’Phast, Go’sol and Donak have struggled since the massacre to strike back at the traitors, causing mayhem for their enemies wherever they may be. It is a touching story that speaks to the strength and character of the Salamanders in face of great odds. Quick and easy read for something like this.
Rating: 10/10
For someone who was once as invested in the Horus Heresy as I was before I took a break from all reading, coming back to such a vast trove of stories is made easier when you have an anthology the likes of Legacies of Betrayal to ease you back in. Full of reprints of short stories, micro-short srories and audio dramas and novellas, Legacies covers the length and breadth of the ongoing Horus Heresy, giving you a great snapshot of what terrors are being wrought across the Imperium and the futile-seeming efforts of the heroes to stave off the worst. Highly recommended, especially if you need to ground yourself in the hows and whens and whats.
Note: This is a longer review than usual since there are nineteen stories of varying length in the anthology. Settle in for a long ride.
The first entry in the anthology is Chris Wraight’s Brotherhood of the Storm here. I have previously reviewed the novel , so you may read that review of it to get my thoughts on the novella. It was a fantastic read, even better than I remembered and with the help of hindsight I see also how it stands as one of the best examples of the relationships between mortals and Astartes depicted in the Heresy. And of course, the bonds forged in battle between different brothers of a Legion, before those bonds are sundered by treason and mistrust. And if you ever want to see Jaghatai Khan in action, then this should be your first stop for sure.
Rating: 9/10
Then we have John French’s micro-short Serpent which is a very brief snapshot of a Chaos ritual being performed by a priest of one of the Davinite Cults. We met the Davinites for the first time in Graham McNeill’s False Gods, the second novel in the series, when Horus was wounded during a battle on Davin and was attended to by the seemingly innocuous religious healers of the planet. Not quite sure what the relevance of the story is, but it is a decent look into the bloody rituals of those who have given away their all to the powers of Chaos.
Rating: 7/10
Guy Haley’s short story Hunter’s Moon is next. This one tells the tale, in first-person no less, of what happens when a Space Wolves Legionary crash-lands on an inconsequential world and is saved from death by some mortals. The fisherman Tidon makes for a wonderful narrator as he tells the audience of the final fate of the Space Wolves squad sent to the Alpha Legion to keep watch over them. After Magnus the Red defied the Emperor’s Decree Absolute and caused psychic mayhem on Terra itself, such squads of veteran Wolves were sent to all the other Legions as spies and watchdogs. We know little of the fate of most of them, but here in Hunter’s Moon we learn some grim tidings, and the resolution of the story packs enough of a punch that I’d say it is one of the best I’ve read in the series. Guy has a good command over his characters and there’s plenty of twists and bolter-action to keep you entertained.
Rating: 9/10
Then we move to the micro-short Veritas Ferrum by David Annandale as we are thrown back to the final stages of the Dropsite Massacre. Arriving late to the conflict, the Iron Hands vessel Veritas Ferrum finds itself fighting for survival among the treachery of four of the seven Legions sent to Isstvan III to bring Horus Lupercal and his fellow traitors to account. Captain Durun Atticus must face a stark choice in the middle of the massacre in the void: save a few desperate survivors of the Dropsite Massacre, brothers of his own Legion and cousins from the Salamanders and Raven Guard, or get out with his men and his ship intact. I remember reading this back when it was released and it was as awesome then as it was now. It is a haunting story of fighting against desperate odds and I loved it. This is also a prequel to David’s novel Damnation of Pythos.
Rating: 9.5/10
John French returns with Riven, which continues some of the themes of Veritas Ferrum before it. Back on Terra, First Captain Sigismund of the Imperial Fists enlists the help of an Iron Hands warrior to seek out survivors of the Dropsite Massacre and bring them to Terra to lend a hand in the defense of the throneworld against the inevitable invasion by Horus Lupercal. When Crius, First Vexilla of the Iron Hands, learns that his gene-father and patriarch Ferrus Manus is dead, something inside him just… breaks. That’s what John French deals with in this story. It is artfully done and focuses on how desperate and cold the Iron Hands have become following the betrayals of Isstvan and the death of Manus. The psychological trauma runs deep and for the exploration of that alone I recommend this story highly. There are some instances where one of the mysteries at the heart of the story become rather opaque to the understanding, but I think the ending is worth it all.
Rating: 9/10
The micro-short Strike and Fade by Guy Haley is next which tells the story of a small survivor squad of Salamanders on Isstvan V itself. Jo’phor, Hae’Phast, Go’sol and Donak have struggled since the massacre to strike back at the traitors, causing mayhem for their enemies wherever they may be. It is a touching story that speaks to the strength and character of the Salamanders in face of great odds. Quick and easy read for something like this.
Rating: 10/10
July 9, 2023
Et bien, ce tome fut plus long à lire que je le pensais ; composé de plusieurs nouvelles (plus d'une dizaine), dont certaines sont des prologue à certains tomes comme la nouvelle La Confrérie de l'Orage de Chris Wraight, qui est la plus longue nouvelle et un genre de préquel à White Scars, le vingt-huitième tome de la saga Horus Heresy. Cette nouvelle fait 140 pages et on y retrouve par exemple par exemple Shiban, Torghun et Targutaï. On retrouve aussi une histoire très courte liée au tome 30 lorsque les space marines Salamanders et Raven Guard sont sauvés par les Iron Hands après le massacre du site d’atterrissage.
Comme je le disais, j'ai eu dur à suivre certaines histoires et à progresser comme je le fais d'habitude car par exemple, les histoires sur les White Scars, j'ai vraiment du mal. C'est comme avec la légion de Lorgar, les Word Bearers et les tomes liés à sa légion, j'ai vraiment du mal à les cerner. Bref, les histoires n'apportent pas grand chose, ce sont des petites histoires précédents ou suivants des évènements détaillés dans d'autres tomes et toute ne font pas la même longueur.
Pour le reste, on passe par divers légions comme les World Eaters d'Angron, Ahriman des Thousand Sons, Sigismund des Imperial Fists, les Space Wolves ... Parfois, nous avons des discussions ou chapitres quasi totalement inutiles comme par exemple le chapitre sur l'Alpha Legion dont certains doutent de leur loyauté ou autre, la discussion entre Lorgar et Angron où Lorgar est énervé car Angron prend trop de temps à se battre et qu'il faut avancer mais vu que Angron a les griffes du boucher qui le démange, il ne veut que le combat.
Enfin, pour finir, ne vous fiez pas spécialement à la première de couverture car cela ne reflète pas tous les personnages présents dans les différentes histoires. En conclusion, un tome rempli de nouvelles mais un tome pas spécialement nécessaire pour la saga en général donc si vous ne lisez pas ce tome, vous ne manquez rien en particulier.
Comme je le disais, j'ai eu dur à suivre certaines histoires et à progresser comme je le fais d'habitude car par exemple, les histoires sur les White Scars, j'ai vraiment du mal. C'est comme avec la légion de Lorgar, les Word Bearers et les tomes liés à sa légion, j'ai vraiment du mal à les cerner. Bref, les histoires n'apportent pas grand chose, ce sont des petites histoires précédents ou suivants des évènements détaillés dans d'autres tomes et toute ne font pas la même longueur.
Pour le reste, on passe par divers légions comme les World Eaters d'Angron, Ahriman des Thousand Sons, Sigismund des Imperial Fists, les Space Wolves ... Parfois, nous avons des discussions ou chapitres quasi totalement inutiles comme par exemple le chapitre sur l'Alpha Legion dont certains doutent de leur loyauté ou autre, la discussion entre Lorgar et Angron où Lorgar est énervé car Angron prend trop de temps à se battre et qu'il faut avancer mais vu que Angron a les griffes du boucher qui le démange, il ne veut que le combat.
Enfin, pour finir, ne vous fiez pas spécialement à la première de couverture car cela ne reflète pas tous les personnages présents dans les différentes histoires. En conclusion, un tome rempli de nouvelles mais un tome pas spécialement nécessaire pour la saga en général donc si vous ne lisez pas ce tome, vous ne manquez rien en particulier.
August 5, 2025
i’m accepting the fact anthologies are NOT for me. sure their are some good stories in there but it’s becoming few and far between. think this will be my last anthology for a bit… anyways….
brotherhood of the storm: 5/5
- i loved this!! a great deep dive into the white scars, from many different perspectives. white scar fan or not, add this to the TBR.
serpent: 3/5
- na
hunters moon: 4/5
- enjoyed this!
veritas ferrum: 3/5
- na
riven: 4/5
- where did the come from! so so so good.
strike and fade: 3/5
- na
honour to the dead: 3/5
- i don’t know if it’s cause i’m having an INCREDIBLY hard time with anthologies - but again this was okay..
butchers nails: 4/5
- boy oh boy do i love the world eaters!
warmaster: 6/5
- this is how you do a short story!!!!!!!!!!!!
kryptos: 3.5/5
- na
wolf’s claw: 3/5
- na
thief of revelations: 4/5
- the thousand sons are still one of the best written legions.
the divine world: 3.5/5
- na
lucius, the eternal blade: 3/5
- na
the eightfold path: 4/5
- though it’s as short as many of the other stories in the anthology, it was surprisingly good
guardian of order: 3/5
- na
heart of the conqueror: 5/5
- the never ending theme of anything to do with the world eaters continues.
censure: 2.5/5
- classic kyme blah blah blah.
lone wolf: 4/5
brotherhood of the storm: 5/5
- i loved this!! a great deep dive into the white scars, from many different perspectives. white scar fan or not, add this to the TBR.
serpent: 3/5
- na
hunters moon: 4/5
- enjoyed this!
veritas ferrum: 3/5
- na
riven: 4/5
- where did the come from! so so so good.
strike and fade: 3/5
- na
honour to the dead: 3/5
- i don’t know if it’s cause i’m having an INCREDIBLY hard time with anthologies - but again this was okay..
butchers nails: 4/5
- boy oh boy do i love the world eaters!
warmaster: 6/5
- this is how you do a short story!!!!!!!!!!!!
kryptos: 3.5/5
- na
wolf’s claw: 3/5
- na
thief of revelations: 4/5
- the thousand sons are still one of the best written legions.
the divine world: 3.5/5
- na
lucius, the eternal blade: 3/5
- na
the eightfold path: 4/5
- though it’s as short as many of the other stories in the anthology, it was surprisingly good
guardian of order: 3/5
- na
heart of the conqueror: 5/5
- the never ending theme of anything to do with the world eaters continues.
censure: 2.5/5
- classic kyme blah blah blah.
lone wolf: 4/5
August 9, 2020
Unlike most of the previous anthologies in this series, this one felt thematically cohesive. We are 31 books into the full series and it sometimes gets confusing on what is happening where. This book helped to correct that. The stories progressed the overall plot along and fleshed out many of the many plotlines.
I especially enjoyed Honour to the Dead as it brought a human level of emotional toll that the incessant wars were having for inhabitants of the worlds as well as show a gentle and human side to the space marines.
I also liked Butcher's Nails as it explored the dynamics of the relationship between primarchs. Yes, this has been covered in other books and stories but Angron is especially a difficult individual to interact with.
I also wanted to mention Censure. This continued to tell the aftermath of the battle on Calth but included a nice interplay and dynamic between an ordinary soldier and the super soldier, space marine.
Many of the stories are quite short but help to bridge the longer stories and the plotlines from previous books.
I especially enjoyed Honour to the Dead as it brought a human level of emotional toll that the incessant wars were having for inhabitants of the worlds as well as show a gentle and human side to the space marines.
I also liked Butcher's Nails as it explored the dynamics of the relationship between primarchs. Yes, this has been covered in other books and stories but Angron is especially a difficult individual to interact with.
I also wanted to mention Censure. This continued to tell the aftermath of the battle on Calth but included a nice interplay and dynamic between an ordinary soldier and the super soldier, space marine.
Many of the stories are quite short but help to bridge the longer stories and the plotlines from previous books.
February 27, 2022
Tahle knížka není pro sklerotiky. Ačkoliv se považuju za fanouška Warhammeru 40.000, tak se mi v paměti drží tak maximálně velké legie, hlavní primarchové a pár důležitých hlavních postav. Tahle kniha je spoustu dílků rozsypané stavebnice, pro lidi, kteří mají paměť jako slon… nebo si dělají poznámky. I když tady jsou i delší věci, které nabízí i nějaký samostatný příběh, tak dost z toho jsou spíš jen střípky do mozaiky, popisující, jak hrdina dostal rukavici, jak mu definitivně hráblo, co dělal mezi dvěma velkými příběhy, jak se dali tyhle postavy dohromady… nebo prostě jen jak kdo uvažuje. Pro mě tahle kniha byla seznamem informací, které by byly určitě zajímavé, kdybych si je do doby čtení další knihy zvládl zapamatovat. Plus, další nevýhoda téhle knihy – žádný Abnett. Ten celkově z Horus Heresy vymizel, což je dost mrzuté.
Nebylo to špatné, až na toho Abnetta tu najdete většinu významných jmen, povídky jsou dobře napsané… ale prostě mě to nechytlo a dávám předost delší příběhům. Tam se zvládnu spíš zorientovat.
Nebylo to špatné, až na toho Abnetta tu najdete většinu významných jmen, povídky jsou dobře napsané… ale prostě mě to nechytlo a dávám předost delší příběhům. Tam se zvládnu spíš zorientovat.
July 2, 2022
Difficult to rate this one. This is another mixed bag and is packed full of utterly pointless shorts that struggle to exceed 10 pages. I struggle with these. I quite like the Novella length ones and some of the 50 pagers but the mini stories just seem a bit pointless and make following the whole story even more complicated.
Anyway, my work on a compromise reading order continues and I've managed to only split this book into 3 or 4 blocks, which isn't bad going.
Highlights here are Chris Wraights excellent Brotherhood of the Storm (a must read before Scars) and Nick Kymes Censure (which really should be in Mark of Calth - sigh). Honourable mention goes to Kryptos.
My biggest issue with this book, much like War Without End and Eye of Terra is that it is just a collection of random stuff. It has no unifying theme and the stories are dotted about all over the series chronology. These work much better with either a unifying theme (Born of Flame, Corax) or period / setting (Mark of Calth) as the reader can easily place them in a reading order that doesn't confuse endlessly.
Anyway, my work on a compromise reading order continues and I've managed to only split this book into 3 or 4 blocks, which isn't bad going.
Highlights here are Chris Wraights excellent Brotherhood of the Storm (a must read before Scars) and Nick Kymes Censure (which really should be in Mark of Calth - sigh). Honourable mention goes to Kryptos.
My biggest issue with this book, much like War Without End and Eye of Terra is that it is just a collection of random stuff. It has no unifying theme and the stories are dotted about all over the series chronology. These work much better with either a unifying theme (Born of Flame, Corax) or period / setting (Mark of Calth) as the reader can easily place them in a reading order that doesn't confuse endlessly.
October 30, 2018
My rating for this is relative to other 40k books. Don't take this as a recommendation unless you're a pre-existing fan of the franchise.
Yet another anthology of short stories, which I'm not complaining about. The quality of the stories is unsurprisingly tied to the quality of the author. Graham McNeill, ADB, John French & Anthony Reynolds are top-notch as always; Chris Wraight, David Annandale and Nick Kyme are ok, and Guy Haley and Gav Thorpe come up short.
The one interesting thing about this anthology is it breaks the usual rule of 1 story per author, so the book is weighted toward some of the better authors. Only other thing of note is that some of these were adapted from short audio dramas so some of the shorter ones are only a handful of pages, like John French's "Serpent." It was so short it felt like a strong prologue and I had to check and make sure my copy wasn't defective.
Yet another anthology of short stories, which I'm not complaining about. The quality of the stories is unsurprisingly tied to the quality of the author. Graham McNeill, ADB, John French & Anthony Reynolds are top-notch as always; Chris Wraight, David Annandale and Nick Kyme are ok, and Guy Haley and Gav Thorpe come up short.
The one interesting thing about this anthology is it breaks the usual rule of 1 story per author, so the book is weighted toward some of the better authors. Only other thing of note is that some of these were adapted from short audio dramas so some of the shorter ones are only a handful of pages, like John French's "Serpent." It was so short it felt like a strong prologue and I had to check and make sure my copy wasn't defective.
September 25, 2023
Somewhat of a mixed reaction from me - is a collection of pretty good stories, but the timing is annoying as some of the bigger ones are sort of preludes to prior Horus Heresy novels, an really would have been great to read them before those novels came out, instead of after when already know what the ultimate result is going to be.
It doesn't feel like reasonable prequels either that are there to help flesh out / explain circumstances, as some are referenced in the novels themselves, but really something that should have been published prior.
Outside of that general sense of frustration though I do enjoy the stories themselves, a good mix of interesting pieces, and some at least do seem to be helping build towards future novels.
It doesn't feel like reasonable prequels either that are there to help flesh out / explain circumstances, as some are referenced in the novels themselves, but really something that should have been published prior.
Outside of that general sense of frustration though I do enjoy the stories themselves, a good mix of interesting pieces, and some at least do seem to be helping build towards future novels.
May 18, 2026
This might be the most disappointing anthology so far which is very disappointing. Many of the shorts are REALLY short and most feel like filler. We have MORE Calth because the entire book dedicated to Calth shorts still wasn't enough apparently. Brotherhood of the Storm, Butcher's Nails, Kryptos, Thief of Revelations, Lucius, The Eightfold Path, and Heart of the Conquerer are most needed.
Brotherhood of the Storm 3/5
Serpent 2/5
Hunter's Moon 2/5
Veritas Ferrum 2/5
Riven 2/5
Strike and Fade 2/5
Honour the Dead 3/5
Butcher's Nails 4/5
Warmaster 4/5
Kryptos 4/5
Wolf's Claw 2/5
Thief of Revelations 3/5
The Divine Word 4/5
Lucius, the Eternal Blade 3/5
The Eightfold Path 4/5
Guardian of Order 1/5
Heart of the Conquerer 4/5
Censure 3/5
Lone Wolf 3/5
Brotherhood of the Storm 3/5
Serpent 2/5
Hunter's Moon 2/5
Veritas Ferrum 2/5
Riven 2/5
Strike and Fade 2/5
Honour the Dead 3/5
Butcher's Nails 4/5
Warmaster 4/5
Kryptos 4/5
Wolf's Claw 2/5
Thief of Revelations 3/5
The Divine Word 4/5
Lucius, the Eternal Blade 3/5
The Eightfold Path 4/5
Guardian of Order 1/5
Heart of the Conquerer 4/5
Censure 3/5
Lone Wolf 3/5
June 2, 2024
Short story books always seem to be a difficult novel to produce. Mainly because you are dealing with multiple authors who have different writing styles. There stories also need to be able to convoy a whole scene/event, while building up characters within a few amount of pages.
This book of short stories is well done. The stories are interesting and provide you with multiple views of the events unfolding in this universe. I think this book of short stories works. This Is because it is working on pre built history developed throughout the previous 30 other books in the series. Well done and great read for any person who enjoys the Horus heresy.
This book of short stories is well done. The stories are interesting and provide you with multiple views of the events unfolding in this universe. I think this book of short stories works. This Is because it is working on pre built history developed throughout the previous 30 other books in the series. Well done and great read for any person who enjoys the Horus heresy.
October 5, 2025
Overall a good read. The first few stories felt inconsequential and at some points felt like fan fiction, but the back 2/3 of the book has some very compelling and interesting stories. Felt like some of the very short stories deserved to be parts of longer novels with some of the importance of the actions in them. This anthology covers a wide array of legion factions and characters from earlier in the series, so if you haven't read many of the earlier novels it could be a little confusing. Good read overall though!
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