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Farsight #1
Crisis of Faith
A T'au Empire novel
Fresh from his victory on Arkunasha, the young Commander Farsight leads a crusade to reclaim colonies lost to mankind's Imperium. But stiff resistance will test him to his limits, and beyond.
READ IT BECAUSE
Phil Kelly continues his look at the life of Commander Farsight with his first campaign against the full might of the Imperium, and shows how the T'au Empire's technological superiority fares against Imperial grit.
THE STORY
The t'au are a mysterious alien race, diametrically opposed to the Imperium of Man in every possible way - in their mastery of technology, methods of warfare and social structure. Yet in galactic terms they are a young race, and naive when it comes to the manipulations of Chaos. When promising young Commander Farsight is promoted to lead a crusade across the Damocles Gulf to reclaim the T'au Empire's lost colonies from mankind, the mood is one of optimism. With their mighty fleet, and superior weapons and machines, how can their endeavour possibly fail? However, despite a parade of early successes, Commander Farsight soon faces enemies he wasn't anticipating, and finds not only his courage but also his soul tested to the very limit.
Fresh from his victory on Arkunasha, the young Commander Farsight leads a crusade to reclaim colonies lost to mankind's Imperium. But stiff resistance will test him to his limits, and beyond.
READ IT BECAUSE
Phil Kelly continues his look at the life of Commander Farsight with his first campaign against the full might of the Imperium, and shows how the T'au Empire's technological superiority fares against Imperial grit.
THE STORY
The t'au are a mysterious alien race, diametrically opposed to the Imperium of Man in every possible way - in their mastery of technology, methods of warfare and social structure. Yet in galactic terms they are a young race, and naive when it comes to the manipulations of Chaos. When promising young Commander Farsight is promoted to lead a crusade across the Damocles Gulf to reclaim the T'au Empire's lost colonies from mankind, the mood is one of optimism. With their mighty fleet, and superior weapons and machines, how can their endeavour possibly fail? However, despite a parade of early successes, Commander Farsight soon faces enemies he wasn't anticipating, and finds not only his courage but also his soul tested to the very limit.
Hardcover
First published January 1, 2017
118 people are currently reading
522 people want to read
About the author
Phil Kelly
86 books57 followersPhil Kelly (born 1977) is the Creative Lead for 'Warhammer: Age of Sigmar' in the Games Workshop design studio.
He has written over 60 gaming books in the last twenty years.
He has also written several Warhammer 40,000, Age of Sigmar and Warhammer Horror books and audio dramas for Black Library.
Librarian Note: there is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
He has written over 60 gaming books in the last twenty years.
He has also written several Warhammer 40,000, Age of Sigmar and Warhammer Horror books and audio dramas for Black Library.
Librarian Note: there is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
March 18, 2019
PROS:
Giving Farsight’s story room to breathe, to explore his relationship with the various castes (especially the Ethereals) and his slow unravelling of the secrets behind the Tau’va and the nature of Chaos is amazing.
Kelly isn’t afraid to have the heroes suffer defeats. There’s no ridiculous plot armour for Farsight Expedition (although naturally, there is some)
Not chock full of endless descriptions of near identical battles (looking at you ‘Horus Heresy’). As much time is given to the actual expedition as to ‘bolter porn’
Kelly’s doing some interesting things with the Farsight myth. Similar to how some details, big and small, have been changed in the ‘Horus Heresy’ series to give the readers some surprises.
CONS:
Pacing’s a bit iffy, especially at the end. However, if youre interested in more than just battles then thismis mitigated somewhat.
Kelly’s style is a bit rough; the same phrases pop up repeatedly, almost exclusively (‘bulbous stealth suits’, ‘writ large’ etc’). Normally this is a nit-pick, but its often enough to be starkly noticeable. There’s also the habit of using impressive sounding synomyms or obscure words with a specific meaning, then unpacking the specific meaning of the synonym/obscure word in the rest of the sentence (for example “...her mouth a moue of amused disapproval"). Maybe this was only noticeable to me because I like to look up words I don’t know when I’m reading, but it’s there and it’s definitely bad practice.
OVERALL:
Definitely read it if you’re a T’au or Farsight fan. Well worth a read if you’re a 40K fan and looking for a xeno-centered perspective. Read it later if you’re curious about the 40K universe; there’s definitely easier places to start. Avoid if you can’t be bothered with wiki-consultation and constant reference to the cast list at the beginning, or if stylistic shortcomings will kill your enthusiasm.
Giving Farsight’s story room to breathe, to explore his relationship with the various castes (especially the Ethereals) and his slow unravelling of the secrets behind the Tau’va and the nature of Chaos is amazing.
Kelly isn’t afraid to have the heroes suffer defeats. There’s no ridiculous plot armour for Farsight Expedition (although naturally, there is some)
Not chock full of endless descriptions of near identical battles (looking at you ‘Horus Heresy’). As much time is given to the actual expedition as to ‘bolter porn’
Kelly’s doing some interesting things with the Farsight myth. Similar to how some details, big and small, have been changed in the ‘Horus Heresy’ series to give the readers some surprises.
CONS:
Pacing’s a bit iffy, especially at the end. However, if youre interested in more than just battles then thismis mitigated somewhat.
Kelly’s style is a bit rough; the same phrases pop up repeatedly, almost exclusively (‘bulbous stealth suits’, ‘writ large’ etc’). Normally this is a nit-pick, but its often enough to be starkly noticeable. There’s also the habit of using impressive sounding synomyms or obscure words with a specific meaning, then unpacking the specific meaning of the synonym/obscure word in the rest of the sentence (for example “...her mouth a moue of amused disapproval"). Maybe this was only noticeable to me because I like to look up words I don’t know when I’m reading, but it’s there and it’s definitely bad practice.
OVERALL:
Definitely read it if you’re a T’au or Farsight fan. Well worth a read if you’re a 40K fan and looking for a xeno-centered perspective. Read it later if you’re curious about the 40K universe; there’s definitely easier places to start. Avoid if you can’t be bothered with wiki-consultation and constant reference to the cast list at the beginning, or if stylistic shortcomings will kill your enthusiasm.
January 30, 2018
Farsight was a new experience for me. It deals with the Tau, a race that I am not all that familiar with.
The Tau, relative to the other powers of the galaxy including the Imperium, seem to be the most forward thinking and are almost benign in relation to the other powers. The Tau work for something called the Tau'Va (The Greater Good) and their society is divided into different castes. From the workers of the Earth caste, to the diplomats of the Water caste, the warriors of the Fire and the political leaders of the Ethereal caste.
Commander Farsight, of the Fire Cast, is tasked with leading a battle group to the Damocles Gulf to reclaim some previous Tau colonies. The Tau are ready and willing to deal with the human forces they run into but, to my surprise, the Tau have a nominal to nil presence in the Warp. Thus of all the races of the 40K universe they are the least coveted and noticed by the Chaos powers. This is a story where they will cross paths and it is not something that the Tau are prepared to deal with on any level.
An interesting look at the Tau and their worlds. It was instructive but lacked some of the action I was used to in this series. The other problem was the confusing prologue. It begs the question as to the future fate of Commander Farsight. If so, then I am interested in finding out more. The Tau were an interesting race to read about and likely to have the "best" motivations for what they do. Though, as with all things, that is a matter of perspective.
Faright was a nice addition to my Warhammer 40K collection. While not the best of the stories from this series, it was still a fun and interesting read about a species I am not that familiar with-the Tau.
The Tau, relative to the other powers of the galaxy including the Imperium, seem to be the most forward thinking and are almost benign in relation to the other powers. The Tau work for something called the Tau'Va (The Greater Good) and their society is divided into different castes. From the workers of the Earth caste, to the diplomats of the Water caste, the warriors of the Fire and the political leaders of the Ethereal caste.
Commander Farsight, of the Fire Cast, is tasked with leading a battle group to the Damocles Gulf to reclaim some previous Tau colonies. The Tau are ready and willing to deal with the human forces they run into but, to my surprise, the Tau have a nominal to nil presence in the Warp. Thus of all the races of the 40K universe they are the least coveted and noticed by the Chaos powers. This is a story where they will cross paths and it is not something that the Tau are prepared to deal with on any level.
An interesting look at the Tau and their worlds. It was instructive but lacked some of the action I was used to in this series. The other problem was the confusing prologue. It begs the question as to the future fate of Commander Farsight. If so, then I am interested in finding out more. The Tau were an interesting race to read about and likely to have the "best" motivations for what they do. Though, as with all things, that is a matter of perspective.
Faright was a nice addition to my Warhammer 40K collection. While not the best of the stories from this series, it was still a fun and interesting read about a species I am not that familiar with-the Tau.
October 13, 2017
The underlying story for this is great and adds more to one of the better characters in the grimdark future.
My major niggles are the way the story jumps around in different chapters without really setting it up. It jerks you out of the book and makes you have to think about where you are in the tale.
Another niggle is that I do not think the author did a good job of the space combat. I do not think he knows how space itself works. We have displacing pressure waves from cannons in space; the main character dampening external sounds while in space so that he isn't deafened; and a jet-turbine engine working without incident even with a lack of oxygen! The last one is most likely due to it being a Chaos Heldrake chasing the main character however this could've easily been explained if the main character expressed confusion at this as he is slowly being shown the reality-distorting effects of those bound to the immaterium but that was absent.
My low score is due to the jerky story despite the actual plot being interesting. I would very much like to see the storyline continue and even have Farsight meeting Mr Guilliman in the future.
My major niggles are the way the story jumps around in different chapters without really setting it up. It jerks you out of the book and makes you have to think about where you are in the tale.
Another niggle is that I do not think the author did a good job of the space combat. I do not think he knows how space itself works. We have displacing pressure waves from cannons in space; the main character dampening external sounds while in space so that he isn't deafened; and a jet-turbine engine working without incident even with a lack of oxygen! The last one is most likely due to it being a Chaos Heldrake chasing the main character however this could've easily been explained if the main character expressed confusion at this as he is slowly being shown the reality-distorting effects of those bound to the immaterium but that was absent.
My low score is due to the jerky story despite the actual plot being interesting. I would very much like to see the storyline continue and even have Farsight meeting Mr Guilliman in the future.
July 24, 2024
Phil Kelly, I was not familiar with your game and for that I apologise. Because waw, what a book! It’s riveting, good pacing, interesting characters, tense moments, a very well crafted insight into Tau culture. There are Tau, Space Marines, dark plots, Chaos, it has everything! Really really loved this book! Also, because I listen to the audiobook version on audible big shoutout to voice actors Andrew Wincott and Helen McAlpine for really bringing this book alive. Solid performance and great book in and of itself. I can’t wait for more Phil Kelly books!
June 4, 2020
This is largely what readers of Black Library have come to expect from novels that aren't particularly stand out, but not necessarily bad either. Some action, 1-3 cool characters, maybe a little character development.
What I really enjoyed about this story is it does not revolve around the Imperium, but rather gives us the perspective of the Tau, particularly focusing on Commander Farsight. Kelly does an excellent job making these aliens feel alien, while still relatable.
We get some nice overview of Tau culture and philosophy, as well as their perspectives on the Imperium, which was great!
The Tau method of war was intriguing, and battle suits are just plain cool.
But this book does have several stumbling blocks. A random chaos demon is thrown in, seemingly for no reason. Not every warhammer book needs Chaos...
The Space Marines are pretty stupid in this book, perhaps to highlight the problem solving of the Tau, but it still felt like they were dealing with the "trainee" branch of marines.
And the characters themselves are not heavily explored, except Farsight. Part of this is because a lot of the out of fighting scenes revolve around the chaos person, which again was unnecessary.
Overall enjoyable, but nothing to rave about.
What I really enjoyed about this story is it does not revolve around the Imperium, but rather gives us the perspective of the Tau, particularly focusing on Commander Farsight. Kelly does an excellent job making these aliens feel alien, while still relatable.
We get some nice overview of Tau culture and philosophy, as well as their perspectives on the Imperium, which was great!
The Tau method of war was intriguing, and battle suits are just plain cool.
But this book does have several stumbling blocks. A random chaos demon is thrown in, seemingly for no reason. Not every warhammer book needs Chaos...
The Space Marines are pretty stupid in this book, perhaps to highlight the problem solving of the Tau, but it still felt like they were dealing with the "trainee" branch of marines.
And the characters themselves are not heavily explored, except Farsight. Part of this is because a lot of the out of fighting scenes revolve around the chaos person, which again was unnecessary.
Overall enjoyable, but nothing to rave about.
May 21, 2020
An exciting book detailing Commander Farsight's adventures during the Second Sphere Expansion as he confronts the Imperium of Man in his mission to expand Tau territory. First of all there's great Tau worldbuiling here which is well worth the time of anyone curious about this seemingly benign force in the chaotic universe of WH40k.
There's a lot of caste interactions as well as descriptions of their roles in society and the creative ways the Tau and their allies have worked together to further their empire which I feel is a theme reflected through out the whole book meaningfully yet not overly emphasized. This serves to create a sense of wonder at the Tau's coordination, discipline and potential as a galactic force which I feel is essential for developing in the reader some sense of attachment toward the Tau and their heroes as well as curiosity for their future.
Wisely the author also avoids painting a completely utopic alternative for the Imperium in the Tau Empire. While mainly showcasing the very best of the blue aliens he nevertheless takes his time to sow the seeds of disquiet in the reader as he hints at darker forces at work within Tau society like the deceptive nature of the Ethereals, the influence of chaos on the Tau or the unchecked relationship they seem to be developing with advanced AI and digital technologies (which in itself could bring a hell of their own making to Tau society).
Another aspect I really enjoyed was the pacing of the book, it rarely felt as though the shift in POV narrators were jarring but instead worked to build up anticipation which nearly always paid in full with well realized and creative battle scenes. The descriptions were evocative and not confusing for the reader to imagine, with heart pumping battle scenes between the Tau Empire and the Imperium where we got to enjoy the awesomeness that are the Tau battle suits in their different variations as well as the advanced arsenal the aliens use in their tactics of war.
That's not to say there aren't any negatives and I can easily point at two of them. For a novel dedicated to the Tau Empire and one of its greatest heroes we sure get a lot of scenes with the Tau getting their asses kicked over and over, enough for it to be noticeable and feel silly. We have already many books with the Imperium crushing xenos completely and it seems like even in their own book the author wasn't willing to give the Tau a stronger image. This book is about the Tau and Commander Farsight, we don't need a 7th scene where another great Adeptus Astertes beats a xenos with righteous fury. There's like 100 other 40k books of nothing but that.
Second unforgivable sin was the part where
In the end reading this book was a very enjoyable time between the interesting details of Tau society and the exciting battle suit fights with its flaws being minor enough to make it a really good book just not a great one.
There's a lot of caste interactions as well as descriptions of their roles in society and the creative ways the Tau and their allies have worked together to further their empire which I feel is a theme reflected through out the whole book meaningfully yet not overly emphasized. This serves to create a sense of wonder at the Tau's coordination, discipline and potential as a galactic force which I feel is essential for developing in the reader some sense of attachment toward the Tau and their heroes as well as curiosity for their future.
Wisely the author also avoids painting a completely utopic alternative for the Imperium in the Tau Empire. While mainly showcasing the very best of the blue aliens he nevertheless takes his time to sow the seeds of disquiet in the reader as he hints at darker forces at work within Tau society like the deceptive nature of the Ethereals, the influence of chaos on the Tau or the unchecked relationship they seem to be developing with advanced AI and digital technologies (which in itself could bring a hell of their own making to Tau society).
Another aspect I really enjoyed was the pacing of the book, it rarely felt as though the shift in POV narrators were jarring but instead worked to build up anticipation which nearly always paid in full with well realized and creative battle scenes. The descriptions were evocative and not confusing for the reader to imagine, with heart pumping battle scenes between the Tau Empire and the Imperium where we got to enjoy the awesomeness that are the Tau battle suits in their different variations as well as the advanced arsenal the aliens use in their tactics of war.
That's not to say there aren't any negatives and I can easily point at two of them. For a novel dedicated to the Tau Empire and one of its greatest heroes we sure get a lot of scenes with the Tau getting their asses kicked over and over, enough for it to be noticeable and feel silly. We have already many books with the Imperium crushing xenos completely and it seems like even in their own book the author wasn't willing to give the Tau a stronger image. This book is about the Tau and Commander Farsight, we don't need a 7th scene where another great Adeptus Astertes beats a xenos with righteous fury. There's like 100 other 40k books of nothing but that.
Second unforgivable sin was the part where
In the end reading this book was a very enjoyable time between the interesting details of Tau society and the exciting battle suit fights with its flaws being minor enough to make it a really good book just not a great one.
June 27, 2024
A s0lid xenos entry into the Imperium-dominated catalogue of The Black Library, "Crisis of Faith" is part one of a duology (so far at least, not sure if a third will be made) depicting the rise of the titular Commander Farsight, and his eventually separation from the Tau Empire to form his own Enclave of worlds. Seeing as this is part one, you only get some fragments and hints of what is to come, but it lays the groundwork well, competently depicting Farsight as a conflicted character trying to wrestle with his responsibilities and beliefs in a fairly satisfying manner to read.
Besides this, it was nice to get such a detailed view of the Tau, especially as someone who before this was fairly unfamiliar with them, and seeing them juxtapositioned so strongly against the regressive, backwards-thinking, self-destructive yet undeniably powerful behemoth that is the Imperium of Man, as well as the first whispers of Chaos and its strange, eldritch madness that the young and naive race are only getting their first tastes of, were especially enjoyable. Beyond this, the action for such a pulpy novel is well done, fast-paced and dynamic, showing off the Tau in a fun and exciting manner, the other characters are serviceable, playing their needed roles, and the story is fast paced enough for the most part (drags a bit in the middle) that it makes for a fairly quick read.
Overall, if you're a fan of the Tau, Farsight, want to know more about their culture and innerworkings and such, or are interested i seeing the Imperium depicted as the villains in all their deserved grimdarkness, "Crisis of Faith" is good choice.
3.5/5, a fun read
Besides this, it was nice to get such a detailed view of the Tau, especially as someone who before this was fairly unfamiliar with them, and seeing them juxtapositioned so strongly against the regressive, backwards-thinking, self-destructive yet undeniably powerful behemoth that is the Imperium of Man, as well as the first whispers of Chaos and its strange, eldritch madness that the young and naive race are only getting their first tastes of, were especially enjoyable. Beyond this, the action for such a pulpy novel is well done, fast-paced and dynamic, showing off the Tau in a fun and exciting manner, the other characters are serviceable, playing their needed roles, and the story is fast paced enough for the most part (drags a bit in the middle) that it makes for a fairly quick read.
Overall, if you're a fan of the Tau, Farsight, want to know more about their culture and innerworkings and such, or are interested i seeing the Imperium depicted as the villains in all their deserved grimdarkness, "Crisis of Faith" is good choice.
3.5/5, a fun read
August 19, 2025
The T'au are probably the 40k race with which I am least familiar, so Phil Kelly had his work cut out to explain their background and society and also provide an entertaining novel. A valiant attempt is made at each goal; the detailed accountings of the caste systems and social hierarchies are mingled with battles with a host of adversaries, some more subtle than others.
We learn about the Greater Good and the T'au focus on collectivism over individualism - it's fun to see human selfishness treated with derision when observed from the T'au perspective, but aside from the lower societal rungs lacking ambition or potential to rebel (something also sorely lacking in 40k human societies), actual examples of the described behaviour are few and far between. That's a shame, because it feels like Kelly is telling, not showing, and it leaves a potentially interesting alien race seeming much like yet another Space Marine chapter but with access to very different technology.
Some good ideas - I particularly enjoyed the creative use of stasis for very long space journeys - but perhaps too many plotlines mean the story meanders a little too much and makes it difficult to care about the characters. Interesting enough to leave me curious where the series goes next, but overall I'd say this is one for big T'au fans and the 40k competitionists.
We learn about the Greater Good and the T'au focus on collectivism over individualism - it's fun to see human selfishness treated with derision when observed from the T'au perspective, but aside from the lower societal rungs lacking ambition or potential to rebel (something also sorely lacking in 40k human societies), actual examples of the described behaviour are few and far between. That's a shame, because it feels like Kelly is telling, not showing, and it leaves a potentially interesting alien race seeming much like yet another Space Marine chapter but with access to very different technology.
Some good ideas - I particularly enjoyed the creative use of stasis for very long space journeys - but perhaps too many plotlines mean the story meanders a little too much and makes it difficult to care about the characters. Interesting enough to leave me curious where the series goes next, but overall I'd say this is one for big T'au fans and the 40k competitionists.
March 29, 2023
Couldn't even be bothered to finish. I've spent almost the last five hours punishing myself to at least get to the 'good part'. I can't. I'm pretty sure this is the first time I haven't been able to finish a book.
To be clear, I have to say that I'm referring to the audiobook.
As a new T'au player and enjoyer of their lore and characters, I was super excited about this book. Well, it disappointed me. Even though the title is 'Crisis of Faith', which can be summed up in two or three times Farsight disagreed with the Ethereals. That's hardly enough to be classified as a 'crisis of faith'.
But maybe we learned more from Farsight as a character? Well... yes, if we count the same event from his youth being repeated several times without ever adding anything beyond that. Not even actual scenes with Puretide.
But maybe we learned more about the T'au society in ways that a Codex can't properly explore? No.
Were the long battles engaging? In my opinion, no.
I'm happy that a fair share of people seem to enjoy the book but I guess that after reading the Eisenhorn trilogy, I was expecting something else. Probably my fault, but would be lying if I said I enjoyed it.
To be clear, I have to say that I'm referring to the audiobook.
As a new T'au player and enjoyer of their lore and characters, I was super excited about this book. Well, it disappointed me. Even though the title is 'Crisis of Faith', which can be summed up in two or three times Farsight disagreed with the Ethereals. That's hardly enough to be classified as a 'crisis of faith'.
But maybe we learned more from Farsight as a character? Well... yes, if we count the same event from his youth being repeated several times without ever adding anything beyond that. Not even actual scenes with Puretide.
But maybe we learned more about the T'au society in ways that a Codex can't properly explore? No.
Were the long battles engaging? In my opinion, no.
I'm happy that a fair share of people seem to enjoy the book but I guess that after reading the Eisenhorn trilogy, I was expecting something else. Probably my fault, but would be lying if I said I enjoyed it.
September 27, 2017
Overall: good book, don't necessarily agree with possessed tau but how it was done made it plausible. Interesting read.
The longer bit:
Preferred the predecessor 'Farsight' due to some repetition in a loose kind of way. Felt like saying: "oh Ob'lotai, not again" and there were elements of the 14 year old book Fire Warrior by Simon Spurrier - without giving too much away.
The layout of the book is a bit confusing. You have Arthas Moloch at the start, which is a good start. Then it goes back to just after the 1st Damocles Gulf Crusade (ok so a leading-up-to kind of story?), only to say: "all but 1 caste" at the end... and no mention of Arthas Moloch.
So, does the whole caste thing at the end relate to the water caste (of which all the main leads died) or the 3 Ethereals (which are stated at the start as being killed at Arthas Moloch)?
On that note, why put Arthas Moloch in at all when it doesn't add to the story? Save it for the next book.
The longer bit:
Preferred the predecessor 'Farsight' due to some repetition in a loose kind of way. Felt like saying: "oh Ob'lotai, not again" and there were elements of the 14 year old book Fire Warrior by Simon Spurrier - without giving too much away.
The layout of the book is a bit confusing. You have Arthas Moloch at the start, which is a good start. Then it goes back to just after the 1st Damocles Gulf Crusade (ok so a leading-up-to kind of story?), only to say: "all but 1 caste" at the end... and no mention of Arthas Moloch.
So, does the whole caste thing at the end relate to the water caste (of which all the main leads died) or the 3 Ethereals (which are stated at the start as being killed at Arthas Moloch)?
On that note, why put Arthas Moloch in at all when it doesn't add to the story? Save it for the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 30, 2019
A book full of interesting characters and plot points, which seems to unfortunatley bounce between them all without time to delve too deeply into any of them.
There are many stories worth telling clearly present in this book, many that would be worth whole novels by themselves. While I don't feel this speedrun through Farsight's adventure is the fault of the writer, who evidently has placed an incredible amount of effort into establishing T'au culture as well as the stories we follow, but more likely is the result of an ironic lack of faith in pushing too many novels involving the character.
Despite this, I still enjoyed the book greatly and would highly recommend it to any who want to learn more about the T'au, Farsight and the interactions between them and the Imperium.
There are many stories worth telling clearly present in this book, many that would be worth whole novels by themselves. While I don't feel this speedrun through Farsight's adventure is the fault of the writer, who evidently has placed an incredible amount of effort into establishing T'au culture as well as the stories we follow, but more likely is the result of an ironic lack of faith in pushing too many novels involving the character.
Despite this, I still enjoyed the book greatly and would highly recommend it to any who want to learn more about the T'au, Farsight and the interactions between them and the Imperium.
September 7, 2025
This was my first Warhammer 40k book. Because I found the Tau most interesting, I wanted to learn more about them by reading.
and because I am a beginner, the start was somewhat overwhelming. I knew there is cast system, but this book directly introduces twists to that, like the watercast tau that is not diplomatic and kills?? I was really confused in the beginning.
But the Spacebattle was a highlight, while the beginning of the conquest was rushed, and while the battle in the volcane was nice, the rebellion felt rushed again.
I like farsight, but in the other hand, I have no clue how he looks different from other tau?
and another gripe: why do I see the spacemarine point of view? I specifcally wanted to read tau, if I wanted to read space marines there are sooo many other to pick. And the perspective is not really necessary. I think it would have been more tense, if we would see the humans only from the tau perspective.
Regardless I liked the book and wilk read the rest of the series
and because I am a beginner, the start was somewhat overwhelming. I knew there is cast system, but this book directly introduces twists to that, like the watercast tau that is not diplomatic and kills?? I was really confused in the beginning.
But the Spacebattle was a highlight, while the beginning of the conquest was rushed, and while the battle in the volcane was nice, the rebellion felt rushed again.
I like farsight, but in the other hand, I have no clue how he looks different from other tau?
and another gripe: why do I see the spacemarine point of view? I specifcally wanted to read tau, if I wanted to read space marines there are sooo many other to pick. And the perspective is not really necessary. I think it would have been more tense, if we would see the humans only from the tau perspective.
Regardless I liked the book and wilk read the rest of the series
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2018
The Legendary Farsight takes command of the Second Sphere Expansion and heads into the Damocles Gulf. Then it all turns to shit basically. True to GW style Tau and Imperial forces take staggering losses in every battle yet come back for more.
Some interesting scenes such as Gun Drones chatting with each other than their attendant. Battlesuit AI giving no end of side eye and shade to Farsight as he keeps doing dangerous things the suit would really rather he didn't. Then we have a rather delicate scene where you get to see why screwing around with a Warp drive is a REALLY bad idea in a laboratory. No spoilers but REALLY bad idea.
Some interesting scenes such as Gun Drones chatting with each other than their attendant. Battlesuit AI giving no end of side eye and shade to Farsight as he keeps doing dangerous things the suit would really rather he didn't. Then we have a rather delicate scene where you get to see why screwing around with a Warp drive is a REALLY bad idea in a laboratory. No spoilers but REALLY bad idea.
February 22, 2022
5/10
This is the longest it's taken me to read a book. Some irl problems admittedly, but it's primarily because I didn't enjoy this book much.
I'm a Tau fan, collect some of the miniatures, and admire their roster & lore.
But this book was just really difficult to read. I don't know.
I liked the conflict with Farsight and the Ethereals.
The big battles of the 40k universe is cool as always.
That's all I can say really?
Was a real struggle to finish this. Can finally move on to another book.
This is the longest it's taken me to read a book. Some irl problems admittedly, but it's primarily because I didn't enjoy this book much.
I'm a Tau fan, collect some of the miniatures, and admire their roster & lore.
But this book was just really difficult to read. I don't know.
I liked the conflict with Farsight and the Ethereals.
The big battles of the 40k universe is cool as always.
That's all I can say really?
Was a real struggle to finish this. Can finally move on to another book.
March 24, 2022
Farsight is one of the most popular figures of the Tau Empire.
It is only logical to have a book which tells his story of the famous damocles crusade.
The book has a huge amount of great characters which get their fair share of action. Especially my favorite one O'Vesa. the Stone Dragon.
The only problem i have with the book is that the story unfolds rather slowly and it feels like the interesting stuff is going to happen in book 2.
But other than that a great read about Tau Society and the famous high commander.
It is only logical to have a book which tells his story of the famous damocles crusade.
The book has a huge amount of great characters which get their fair share of action. Especially my favorite one O'Vesa. the Stone Dragon.
The only problem i have with the book is that the story unfolds rather slowly and it feels like the interesting stuff is going to happen in book 2.
But other than that a great read about Tau Society and the famous high commander.
February 12, 2023
I would have appreciated it if certain events and battles would have been told from the co mon soldiers perspective, but I understand that the auther wanted to tell a story on a much larger scale. More detailed desciptions of certain engagements and key events, especially towards the end would have been appreciated aswell. I felt that some events and actions were not set up sufficently and came a bit out of nowhere. But I nontheless think it is a great book for somone like me who is just now diving into the litterary world of 40k in general and the Tau Empire in particular.
June 7, 2023
To prephis this review I’ll begain by saying that I’m a massive 40k fan. I love the painting, playing and lore to an imense degree. I own three armies Tyranids, Orks, and Tau. This book being about the latter. Commander Farsight is a character that has intrigued me for a long time so this book was set out for greatness. Unfortunately I was very disepointed by this story as it focuses everything on the plot points and nothing on the characters. I need a reason to care about these characters but I got very little. In the books defence it got better near the end.
January 7, 2024
As a disclaimer, i listened to this on audible and it's very likely this sways my opinion.
Crisis of Faith is my second stab at reading black library (after hating Xenos) and it disappointed me. After i asked my friend about tau books he told me they didn't exist and I wish i didn't dig deeper.
Farsight to me feels like a space marine book pretending to be tau and i feel that for a book titled "farsight", the man himself seldom appeared. I also feel as though a lot of the prose became repetitive, specifically during fight scenes.
One of the other issues is that it was very hard to follow. There was constantly so much going on that i just couldn't keep up, and it didn't help that there were so many PoV changes and random characters who pop up for one line of dialogue every hour or so. It's made worse with the narrator not making it clear that a shift has occurred.
However, credit where credit is due, i enjoyed the early chapters surrounding Farsight and Shadowsun at the meeting (the name of which escapes me) and that bit of political intrigue put me in mind of red rising which was a good thing.
But sadly, the book loses that good faith for me.
Hopefully Brutal Kunnin provides a more fun experience for black library books otherwise i fear it won't be for me
Crisis of Faith is my second stab at reading black library (after hating Xenos) and it disappointed me. After i asked my friend about tau books he told me they didn't exist and I wish i didn't dig deeper.
Farsight to me feels like a space marine book pretending to be tau and i feel that for a book titled "farsight", the man himself seldom appeared. I also feel as though a lot of the prose became repetitive, specifically during fight scenes.
One of the other issues is that it was very hard to follow. There was constantly so much going on that i just couldn't keep up, and it didn't help that there were so many PoV changes and random characters who pop up for one line of dialogue every hour or so. It's made worse with the narrator not making it clear that a shift has occurred.
However, credit where credit is due, i enjoyed the early chapters surrounding Farsight and Shadowsun at the meeting (the name of which escapes me) and that bit of political intrigue put me in mind of red rising which was a good thing.
But sadly, the book loses that good faith for me.
Hopefully Brutal Kunnin provides a more fun experience for black library books otherwise i fear it won't be for me
July 5, 2017
This was Avery measured background story of one of my favorite characters and it expresses the pressures within Tau society. Farsighted is a very sympathetic character as he must negotiate expectations that his superiors and his own growing legend have of him. The action in the book is enhanced by the depth of personality of the characters in the story and the work, as a whole, feels very mature for bolter porn.
June 18, 2018
Exciting and a great book for Farsight fans. The tau commander is brought to life through exciting action and wonderful moments of introspection. The challenges and enemies he faces are also well rounded and developed.
Slight spoiler
My only real complaint is that the 'crisis of faith' after which the book is named takes a backseat through much of the story. I had hoped for more when it comes to his relationship with the ethereals.
Slight spoiler
My only real complaint is that the 'crisis of faith' after which the book is named takes a backseat through much of the story. I had hoped for more when it comes to his relationship with the ethereals.
June 22, 2022
An interesting insight into both the Tau faction and Commander Farsight, one of it's key and most interesting figures.
The book achieved developing him as an in-depth character that you really root for. The story itself is compelling too as it follows a major retrospective plot for the Tau lore and how the Farsight Enclaves were established. Only negative is that Act 2 (out of 3 in total) dragged on a bit too long.
Looking forward to reading the follow-up and continuing the Farsight story.
The book achieved developing him as an in-depth character that you really root for. The story itself is compelling too as it follows a major retrospective plot for the Tau lore and how the Farsight Enclaves were established. Only negative is that Act 2 (out of 3 in total) dragged on a bit too long.
Looking forward to reading the follow-up and continuing the Farsight story.
August 10, 2024
For the Tau’va!
A refreshing perspective into the 40K universe. The Tau are definitely distinctive from the Imperium, but far from perfect, and I applaud Kelly for being able to write that distinction! Farsight is a solid commander, his humility and personal doubts constantly keeping his fire caste pride in check. Some fights were a little confusing to follow at times, but you feel the blows when it matters. Well done!
A refreshing perspective into the 40K universe. The Tau are definitely distinctive from the Imperium, but far from perfect, and I applaud Kelly for being able to write that distinction! Farsight is a solid commander, his humility and personal doubts constantly keeping his fire caste pride in check. Some fights were a little confusing to follow at times, but you feel the blows when it matters. Well done!
April 29, 2022
Well here we get yet another story where stupidity and ignorance of reality rules to an, in my opinion, unbelievable degree. This is sadly a staple of stories set in the Warhammer 40k story universe.
The unbelievability/nonsensicality of one or more foundational pillars that the overall premise is supposed to be supported by damages the whole as I see it.
The unbelievability/nonsensicality of one or more foundational pillars that the overall premise is supposed to be supported by damages the whole as I see it.
March 30, 2023
This one was not for me at all.
There was a core of an interesting story here but generally this felt like military fiction at it's heaviest. Unfortunately I don't think Kelly did a good enough job with the action scenes to warrant their volume and i came away frustrated that we didn't get more time with Commander Farsight and T'au socity in general.
There was a core of an interesting story here but generally this felt like military fiction at it's heaviest. Unfortunately I don't think Kelly did a good enough job with the action scenes to warrant their volume and i came away frustrated that we didn't get more time with Commander Farsight and T'au socity in general.
November 12, 2019
A good first part, an middle part that drags a bit, despite the interesting combat scenes it can feel like it needs to end sooner then it does. An excellent 3rd part. Overall a great idea, that was executed well but could have been better. Still enjoyed it.
April 16, 2021
I was really surprised by how good this novel was. For some reason I had convinced myself that a book focusing on the T'au would be really dry but there was actually a lot of humour, warmth and, ironically, humanity in it. Definitely a good read if you're into Warhammer 40,000.
March 9, 2022
An excellent story with just the right blend of world building and action, characters and depth. If you’re looking for an engaging glimpse into the tau and one of their standout icons, this is a great place to start.
May 28, 2022
A really fun and intriguing story, and well worth it for anyone who's interested in the backstory around this faction in the game. It is sometimes a bit of a clunky read when a whole load of tau phrases and words are thrown at you at once, so the glossary at the back is invaluable if you get lost.
April 13, 2023
It started so so good an insight into "utopic" tau society. Their political systems and inside power plays, the propaganda bit was *chefs kiss* but then it devolved into the Tau equivalent of bolter porn. Still entertaining but not even remotely as interesting as the firt third of the book.
May 24, 2023
The story wrecked my image of Tau. From the jump Chaos was involved, I was under the impression that Tau was not with worth the time of Chaos. There was a lot of infighting for a species that is seeking the, "Greater Good."
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