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Warhammer 40,000
Shroud of Night
Upon the oceanic hive world of Tsadrekha, the darkness of the Noctis Aeterna is held at bay by the golden light of a unique beacon. Yet as sharks are drawn to blood, so the ravening warbands of the Heretic Astartes circle the planet, warring to claim this rich prize for their Dark Gods. Now, one of those warlords has deployed a secret weapon to end the deadlock. Kassar and his elite band of Alpha Legionnaires, the Unsung, must infiltrate the planet, using all their cunning and warrior skill to overcome the planets defenders and corrupt the beacon. They need to work fast, for none other than Kharn the Betrayer himself has come to lead the final assault. As a rising tide of apocalyptic warfare consumes Tsadrekha, Kassar and his brothers must race for the prize or be consumed by the fury of the storm.
Read it because
It's hot Chaos on Chaos action, with the Blood God's chosen warrior slap bang in the middle. Let's be honest – that's not ending well for anyone whose name isn't Khârn…
180 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 22, 2017
80 people are currently reading
570 people want to read
About the author
Andy Clark
47 books49 followersAndy Clark is a background writer for Games Workshop.
Librarian note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Andy^^^^^Clark
Librarian note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Andy^^^^^Clark
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
March 10, 2018
This is set in the more recent "End Times" timeline. As with "Devastation of Baal" this is an epic fight for a major Imperial World. Due to the effects of Abbadon's Crusade the warp storms have spread across the galaxy. On an Imperial planet a group of Silent Sisters, Imperial Fists and the Imperial Guard the forces of Chaos battle for control of a Beacon that can light the warp for the Imperial Navy to communicate.
What sets this story apart is that on top of these major events this is that this is really a story about the Alpha Legion. They are the key of the book and the events are happening as a grade backdrop. What's so cool about the Alpha Legion? Firstly though they are a Heretic Legion they do not worship the Dark Gods though often times they may be at equal goals-destruction of the Imperium of Man. Alpha Legion is comparable to a black-ops unit of Space Marines that went rouge during the Horus Heresy. These are some of the coolest Space Marines I've come across. Mysterious, sly, cunning, intelligent, the accolades can go on and on. The fact that the entire time they were running their own operation was awesome! Truly one of my favorite Chapters I've come across.
I won't spoil any more of this story. It has a little of everything. Some major demons show up to fight. Some great Heretic/Chaos Marine units from the Alpha Legion to the Emperor's Children. Also we will get to see the Primaris Marines in action as well. There is a lot stuffed into one book, but the Alpha Legion steals the show.
What sets this story apart is that on top of these major events this is that this is really a story about the Alpha Legion. They are the key of the book and the events are happening as a grade backdrop. What's so cool about the Alpha Legion? Firstly though they are a Heretic Legion they do not worship the Dark Gods though often times they may be at equal goals-destruction of the Imperium of Man. Alpha Legion is comparable to a black-ops unit of Space Marines that went rouge during the Horus Heresy. These are some of the coolest Space Marines I've come across. Mysterious, sly, cunning, intelligent, the accolades can go on and on. The fact that the entire time they were running their own operation was awesome! Truly one of my favorite Chapters I've come across.
I won't spoil any more of this story. It has a little of everything. Some major demons show up to fight. Some great Heretic/Chaos Marine units from the Alpha Legion to the Emperor's Children. Also we will get to see the Primaris Marines in action as well. There is a lot stuffed into one book, but the Alpha Legion steals the show.
June 13, 2019
“Knowledge is power. Gather all that you can, and leave none to your enemies.”
A small warband of Alpha Legionaries infiltrating a fiercely-contested oceanic hive world under the aegis of Imperial Fists and Sister of Battle to sneak off with a mysterious trophy of grave importance – and all this at the orders of the Third Legion degenerates who had captured their fellow renegades on a small rock of a daemonworld where they’d been stuck for an unfathomably long time?.. What, a couple of the setting’s major characters also make appearance?.. Well sure, yes please!
The events of this story take place in the ‘current’ (i.e. 8th edition) timeline of Warhammer 40000, but Kassar and his remaining Unsung seem to have missed out on pretty much everything since the events of Gathering Storm – which is a nice way to introduce the setting’s new realities both to them and the reader.
Almost from the start, the things don’t go very much according to the meticulously laid-out plan, and Kassar soon understands that it’s not just the stoic defenders’ actions but his battle-brothers’ differing attitudes towards the warp’s dark boons, which threaten to jeopardise their mission and ultimately fragment and weaken the warband itself. (And also makes you wonder just how much the warriors of the XXth really trust one another – there are some ideas in the text, but whether true or not is another question…). At first, the Unsung’s leader is right and stalwart in his belief that no good would come from embracing those ‘gifts’. However, for the humans – and transhumans – of the 41st millennium, there’s really no third choice but to embrace either the Master of Mankind or Chaos Pantheon, so at a crucial point in the mission Kassar doesn’t actually have an alternative but to commit to that which he would previously shrug off as decidedly unthinkable. As if that wasn’t enough, his warband has been entrusted with a certain living ‘baggage’ (though ‘burden’ would be a better word) – a mortal cultist of the IIIrd Legion, who may well prove less useful than dangerous, since he also has his own secret motives for being the first to reach the trophy…
The Legion protagonists are pretty much what I always reckoned them to be – the most individualistic, pragmatic and level-headed of the Renegade Astartes, with their cunning, sublime yet also brutal warfare methods and commendable adaptability. Contrary to the image of regular Space Marines, they often wisely evade the direct fights if it doesn’t serve their own goals. Their own customs don’t approve of blindly following the every order of a single, even talented, commander – instead creatively developing their strategy and tactics in discussions, which may be at once a strength and a weakness. And, as the example of some of the Unsung shows, their passion for intelligence-hoarding may cost them dearly, even potentially endangering the success of a common cause... All in all, the Legionaries are definitely much more interesting characters than their – rather stereotyped – Imperial antagonists.
To an Alpha Legionnaire, the lack of information is easily the gravest of weaknesses – thus, it’s rather interesting to see the Unsung’s first reaction when they learn of the newly-forged Primaris Astartes and don’t have a clear idea just what exactly these must be… Though, to their credit, they do adapt and learn pretty swiftly, if only when it starts looking like their mission is about to end once and for all. Such gripping episodes actually make you root for the ‘bad guys’ and their clandestine mission’s success. Also, their shrewd observations about the state of the Imperium are pretty hard to contradict – after all, an outsider’s gaze often proves sharper and truer – not that the said Imperium would agree with them, of course (especially with the ‘nihilistic zealots’ jibe...)
As to the Alpha Legion itself, in the manner of a true Legionary operative Andy Clark gives very little away, which frankly was a bit of a disappointment since I (perhaps naively) did expect to learn some little secrets of the Legion from this particular book… alas, the Twentieth guards its mysteries well and I was not to be graced with any; at least not yet.
To summarise, it is a nice, gripping, solid 40K story with interesting twists of the plot but a little too much ‘conventional’ fighting for my tastes. However, the abundance of battle scenes is well balanced out with lively, witty dialogues and some colourful descriptions. Another welcome feature of the book I’d like to give credit for is its wonderful cover illustration that is the work of my compatriot – I love his Warhammer art!
Now I’ll just wait and see what the Celestine novel by the same author will be like…
A small warband of Alpha Legionaries infiltrating a fiercely-contested oceanic hive world under the aegis of Imperial Fists and Sister of Battle to sneak off with a mysterious trophy of grave importance – and all this at the orders of the Third Legion degenerates who had captured their fellow renegades on a small rock of a daemonworld where they’d been stuck for an unfathomably long time?.. What, a couple of the setting’s major characters also make appearance?.. Well sure, yes please!
The events of this story take place in the ‘current’ (i.e. 8th edition) timeline of Warhammer 40000, but Kassar and his remaining Unsung seem to have missed out on pretty much everything since the events of Gathering Storm – which is a nice way to introduce the setting’s new realities both to them and the reader.
Almost from the start, the things don’t go very much according to the meticulously laid-out plan, and Kassar soon understands that it’s not just the stoic defenders’ actions but his battle-brothers’ differing attitudes towards the warp’s dark boons, which threaten to jeopardise their mission and ultimately fragment and weaken the warband itself. (And also makes you wonder just how much the warriors of the XXth really trust one another – there are some ideas in the text, but whether true or not is another question…). At first, the Unsung’s leader is right and stalwart in his belief that no good would come from embracing those ‘gifts’. However, for the humans – and transhumans – of the 41st millennium, there’s really no third choice but to embrace either the Master of Mankind or Chaos Pantheon, so at a crucial point in the mission Kassar doesn’t actually have an alternative but to commit to that which he would previously shrug off as decidedly unthinkable. As if that wasn’t enough, his warband has been entrusted with a certain living ‘baggage’ (though ‘burden’ would be a better word) – a mortal cultist of the IIIrd Legion, who may well prove less useful than dangerous, since he also has his own secret motives for being the first to reach the trophy…
The Legion protagonists are pretty much what I always reckoned them to be – the most individualistic, pragmatic and level-headed of the Renegade Astartes, with their cunning, sublime yet also brutal warfare methods and commendable adaptability. Contrary to the image of regular Space Marines, they often wisely evade the direct fights if it doesn’t serve their own goals. Their own customs don’t approve of blindly following the every order of a single, even talented, commander – instead creatively developing their strategy and tactics in discussions, which may be at once a strength and a weakness. And, as the example of some of the Unsung shows, their passion for intelligence-hoarding may cost them dearly, even potentially endangering the success of a common cause... All in all, the Legionaries are definitely much more interesting characters than their – rather stereotyped – Imperial antagonists.
To an Alpha Legionnaire, the lack of information is easily the gravest of weaknesses – thus, it’s rather interesting to see the Unsung’s first reaction when they learn of the newly-forged Primaris Astartes and don’t have a clear idea just what exactly these must be… Though, to their credit, they do adapt and learn pretty swiftly, if only when it starts looking like their mission is about to end once and for all. Such gripping episodes actually make you root for the ‘bad guys’ and their clandestine mission’s success. Also, their shrewd observations about the state of the Imperium are pretty hard to contradict – after all, an outsider’s gaze often proves sharper and truer – not that the said Imperium would agree with them, of course (especially with the ‘nihilistic zealots’ jibe...)
As to the Alpha Legion itself, in the manner of a true Legionary operative Andy Clark gives very little away, which frankly was a bit of a disappointment since I (perhaps naively) did expect to learn some little secrets of the Legion from this particular book… alas, the Twentieth guards its mysteries well and I was not to be graced with any; at least not yet.
To summarise, it is a nice, gripping, solid 40K story with interesting twists of the plot but a little too much ‘conventional’ fighting for my tastes. However, the abundance of battle scenes is well balanced out with lively, witty dialogues and some colourful descriptions. Another welcome feature of the book I’d like to give credit for is its wonderful cover illustration that is the work of my compatriot – I love his Warhammer art!
Now I’ll just wait and see what the Celestine novel by the same author will be like…
July 31, 2017
This is a heist style adventure featuring a varied and deliciously sneaky Harrow of Alpha Legion Chaos Space Marines having to outmaneuver Imperial Fists, Adepta Sororitas, Astra Militarum and Khorne worshippers led by Kharn the Betrayer. They also have to deal with treason in their own midst as they steal a navigation beacon from a group of planets to throw them into darkness away from the Imperium. I like how the named characters like Kharn and Saint Celestine are sparingly used to accentuate the main characters. The action and plot are non stop and I look forward to a next installment if there is one in the future. Oh that tricky Alpha Legion...
May 11, 2018
As far as Warhammer 40k books go, this is one of the better ones by far.
I have been reading this almost parallel to another Alpha Legion book, and I have to say, the differences are pretty much night and day. Clark has created a group of Alpha Legion marines who are sent on a mission for a chaos warlord. Though they sound over powered and mary sue at the beginning of the novel, they come across as anything but as the story continues as one by one they get killed off. This is something Clark does extremely well.
The mass combat going on during the mission is handled well, with a couple shifts of point of view to help grasp the dire situation taking place around the space marines as they go about their mission. We get to see big names make an appearance, we get to see how the new primus marines are viewed by other space marines, and the various views between factions in the Imperium. It's always just enough information to satisfy and Clark handles it masterfully.
Another interesting thing is the fact that these are chaos space marines who have very little corruption to them, something we don't see all too often in 40k fiction. It's extremely refreshing and leaves the readers (especially if they have read the Horus Heresy book Legion) wondering just what is going on with the Alpha Legion.
In the end, this is a really enjoyable book, and a refreshing one in a collection of literature that is full of repeating storylines and uninteresting characters. (or over powered characters) It's a smooth read full of plenty of action, internal conflict, and space marines that are neither too human or not human enough to be relatable to. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in reading a refreshing take on Chaos Space Marines.
I have been reading this almost parallel to another Alpha Legion book, and I have to say, the differences are pretty much night and day. Clark has created a group of Alpha Legion marines who are sent on a mission for a chaos warlord. Though they sound over powered and mary sue at the beginning of the novel, they come across as anything but as the story continues as one by one they get killed off. This is something Clark does extremely well.
The mass combat going on during the mission is handled well, with a couple shifts of point of view to help grasp the dire situation taking place around the space marines as they go about their mission. We get to see big names make an appearance, we get to see how the new primus marines are viewed by other space marines, and the various views between factions in the Imperium. It's always just enough information to satisfy and Clark handles it masterfully.
Another interesting thing is the fact that these are chaos space marines who have very little corruption to them, something we don't see all too often in 40k fiction. It's extremely refreshing and leaves the readers (especially if they have read the Horus Heresy book Legion) wondering just what is going on with the Alpha Legion.
In the end, this is a really enjoyable book, and a refreshing one in a collection of literature that is full of repeating storylines and uninteresting characters. (or over powered characters) It's a smooth read full of plenty of action, internal conflict, and space marines that are neither too human or not human enough to be relatable to. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in reading a refreshing take on Chaos Space Marines.
September 7, 2017
Within Imperium Nihilus, away from the light of the Astronomicon, the world of Tsadrekha is a point of light amidst the darkness, its miraculous beacon holding the armies of Chaos at bay. Sent by one of the competing Chaos warlords to find and and corrupt the beacon, the Unsung – an elite Alpha Legion unit – are soon caught between the Imperium’s defences and a brutal assault led by Khârn the Betrayer himself.
If you fancy a book filled with great inter-unit dialogue, inventive and hugely entertaining set pieces, badass Space Marines pulling crazy stunts while trying to figure out what a Primaris Marine is, and generally just over the top escapism…this should do the trick. Like Kingsblade, Clark’s first novel, it’s just fun – a little like how the Ciaphas Cain books are a bit of a 40k guilty pleasure amongst the brooding darkness.
Read the full review at https://www.trackofwords.com/2017/08/...
If you fancy a book filled with great inter-unit dialogue, inventive and hugely entertaining set pieces, badass Space Marines pulling crazy stunts while trying to figure out what a Primaris Marine is, and generally just over the top escapism…this should do the trick. Like Kingsblade, Clark’s first novel, it’s just fun – a little like how the Ciaphas Cain books are a bit of a 40k guilty pleasure amongst the brooding darkness.
Read the full review at https://www.trackofwords.com/2017/08/...
May 5, 2019
Ive never written a book review before, so I dont exactly know how to, but for this book I really need to try!
Ive read around 25~ Black Library novels so far this year, and this is the first one that I legitimately couldnt put down. I literally read it in one sitting because at the end of every chapter I HAD TO see what happened next. I loved the story, and the pacing was amazing. Never a dull moment. This authors take on the Alpha Legion was so interesting, especially their coded communication. I really hope that a sequel will come at some point. Thank you for the amazing read!
Ive read around 25~ Black Library novels so far this year, and this is the first one that I legitimately couldnt put down. I literally read it in one sitting because at the end of every chapter I HAD TO see what happened next. I loved the story, and the pacing was amazing. Never a dull moment. This authors take on the Alpha Legion was so interesting, especially their coded communication. I really hope that a sequel will come at some point. Thank you for the amazing read!
August 26, 2024
Deus ex machina's are almost never payoff enough to be satisfying. Every once in a while a few sneak through that make up for the eye roll inducing nature of the method. However, this book is not one of those cases. Not only does it have two back to back it is straight up deus ex-Kharn immediately followed by deus ex-Celestine and neither of them are used well at all. Some of the Alpha Legion interdynamics really work to the point I just wish it was the main focus of the book. Revels far too much in subpar bolter porn, just aggressively not for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 13, 2017
The book is good. Like, really good. Deserves 4 stars, no less. It was nice to see the perspective of someone other than the loyalists, it made the book unique and different, great for anyone who wants an inside of the Alpha Legion.
September 5, 2017
An excellent read from start to finish. Action packed, and full of 40k Lore references. A fine introduction to the new update 40k background.
May 4, 2019
Of all the characters introduced I felt strongest for Syxx. To be so close to vengeance and be unable to complete that rarest of things in 40k from what I've experienced so far. I hope to see more Alpha Legion novels, particularly ones that continue this story-line. This novel cliffhangered so terribly well.
December 23, 2021
It wasted no time getting into the action. Great story about heretic Alpha Legion. Lots of Khorne cultist hordes.
January 8, 2022
Really enjoyed reading from heretic Astartes point or view. especially the alpha legion.
October 27, 2025
Great one, lots of Character Depth. Definetly a must read for Fans of the Alpha Legion. I hope there will be more Books featuring Kassar and his Harrow.
March 11, 2025
Thoroughly enjoyed this action packed tale.
All of the character arcs were interesting and interacted nicely, got me wondering if there’s any sequels from it.
All of the character arcs were interesting and interacted nicely, got me wondering if there’s any sequels from it.
October 19, 2017
Set briefly after the events of The Gathering Storm, Shroud of Night follows Kassar and his warband, the Unsung, a group of Alpha Legion Astartes. On the far side of the Warp Storms that split the galaxy in half, the light of the Astronomican cannot shine, leaving the Imperial worlds without the guiding light of the Emperor. On the Imperial world of Tsadrekha, however, a beacon shines with a similar light, calling all of the Emperors servants to defend it, and presents itself as a vulnerable target for Chaos Warbands who seek the glory of defiling the light. Now, with a horde of Khornate berzerkers and cultists, lead by Khârn the Betrayer himself, bearing down on Tsadrekha, it is up to Kassar and the Unsung to use all their cunning and skills at subterfuge to reach the Beacon first.
This is the first novel I have read that takes place after the events of The Gathering Storm, and I was interested to see how that might've affected the setting. Turns out, not a great deal. There are a couple of Primaris Marines featured, and I think the book does them credit by making them somewhat stronger than standard Astartes, but they're still very much beatable.
I feel that there was something missing about the Imperials reaction to the Gathering events, the fact that they had lost the Astronomican would've been a serious religious crisis throughout the Imperium, which I feel could have been explored a bit in this novel, considering the importance of the Imperial Faith in the setting. It's definitely not the focus of this book, however, which makes sense as it's mostly focused on the Unsung instead of the Imperials, and is more of an action story than an exploration of Imperial Faith.
I really enjoyed Kassar and the rest of the warband. There's a diverse cast of characters, each with their own specialties and quirks, and while most of them are aligned to the common goal, there's plenty of arguments and conflict within the warband itself. They have an interesting dynamic to leadership, which very much fit the character of the Alpha Legion.
The book really gives a good look at the Alpha Legion, and shows us more about them than most of the Horus Heresy books does. It's a good exploration of their mindset, their tools and how they approach problems and solutions, something I think has been missing from the setting for a while.
It also shows how they've changed since the Heresy. The Unsung are still trying for remain pure of chaos taint, despite the difficulties, and it leads to some interested character developments / conflicts throughout the book.
I also felt that the appearance of Khârn and another character was more of a cameo and name-drop in order to sell more copies. While Khârn does have several scenes, and is as bad-ass as he should be, there's not really any reason for the scenes besides to create tension. For people familiar to the setting, that definitely works, but for new readers who wouldn't know of his infamy in the setting, it wouldn't.
Overall, I really enjoyed Shroud of Night, and it really leaves the story open for a sequel, which I would happily read if/when it's written. It is a well-written book, I enjoyed the characters, and I feel that their story-lines could be interesting to follow if further developed in a sequel.
This is the first novel I have read that takes place after the events of The Gathering Storm, and I was interested to see how that might've affected the setting. Turns out, not a great deal. There are a couple of Primaris Marines featured, and I think the book does them credit by making them somewhat stronger than standard Astartes, but they're still very much beatable.
I feel that there was something missing about the Imperials reaction to the Gathering events, the fact that they had lost the Astronomican would've been a serious religious crisis throughout the Imperium, which I feel could have been explored a bit in this novel, considering the importance of the Imperial Faith in the setting. It's definitely not the focus of this book, however, which makes sense as it's mostly focused on the Unsung instead of the Imperials, and is more of an action story than an exploration of Imperial Faith.
I really enjoyed Kassar and the rest of the warband. There's a diverse cast of characters, each with their own specialties and quirks, and while most of them are aligned to the common goal, there's plenty of arguments and conflict within the warband itself. They have an interesting dynamic to leadership, which very much fit the character of the Alpha Legion.
The book really gives a good look at the Alpha Legion, and shows us more about them than most of the Horus Heresy books does. It's a good exploration of their mindset, their tools and how they approach problems and solutions, something I think has been missing from the setting for a while.
It also shows how they've changed since the Heresy. The Unsung are still trying for remain pure of chaos taint, despite the difficulties, and it leads to some interested character developments / conflicts throughout the book.
I also felt that the appearance of Khârn and another character was more of a cameo and name-drop in order to sell more copies. While Khârn does have several scenes, and is as bad-ass as he should be, there's not really any reason for the scenes besides to create tension. For people familiar to the setting, that definitely works, but for new readers who wouldn't know of his infamy in the setting, it wouldn't.
Overall, I really enjoyed Shroud of Night, and it really leaves the story open for a sequel, which I would happily read if/when it's written. It is a well-written book, I enjoyed the characters, and I feel that their story-lines could be interesting to follow if further developed in a sequel.
January 22, 2018
You can read the full review over at my blog:
https://shadowhawksshade.wordpress.co...
The Gathering Storm has come and gone. The Imperium is riven in two halves, the galaxy itself bisected by the terror of the warp storm named the Cicatrix Maledictum. The age of the Dark Imperium has begun and Humanity is fighting for its very existence. Such is the long and short of the new phase of Warhammer 40,000 as per the new 8th edition rules and the first samples of new lore we’ve seen so far paint a very grim picture of this new age. Even the return of a Primarch from death and the rising power of the Aeldar god of death Ynnead may not be enough to combat it, but dammit, the new lore is exciting as hell.
That’s where Andy Clark’s Shroud of Night fits in. Set roughly analogous to the events of Guy Haley’s introductory Dark Imperium novel, Andy’s story is about the world of Tsadrekha which has discovered and maintains its own Astronomican-like beacon in service to Imperium Nihilus. Warbands of Khorne Berserkers, Emperor’s Children, Alpha Legion and more invade Tsadrekha to either take control of this beacon or destroy it, and it is up to an Imperial Saint, Tsadrekhan Guardsmen, Adepta Sororitas and the warriors of the Imperial Fists to defend it at all costs.
There is a lot going on in Shroud of Night. On the one hand we have a large warband of Emperor’s Children led by Lord Excrucias the Flawless who wants to take control of the Beacon of Tsadrekha. Then we have the other Chaos legions who have laid siege to the planet, among them several prominent Khorne Berserkers led by one of the most infamous of their number. Then we have detachments of Astra Militarum (formerly the Imperial Guard) troops on the world who defend it alongside an Order of the Adepta Sororitas and a detachment of Imperial Fists, both regular Space Marines and the new Primaris, led by Captain Dysorian. And finally we have Excrucias’ so-called secret weapon, a squad of Alpha Legionnaires he has coerced into aiding his goals.
All of it creates a rather riotous story as all these characters intersect with each other at one point or another, and it can be difficult to follow at times. Given the inevitability that casts a shadow over the larger plot, all these viewpoints make for a tough read and you’re left wanting more by the end, because it feels that outside of a very select few, no one really gets much screen-time. If the character count had been trimmed a little, I believe the story would have unfolded much better, and it would have been easier to understand the many motivations at work for all of them, beyond the simple labels of good and evil.
https://shadowhawksshade.wordpress.co...
The Gathering Storm has come and gone. The Imperium is riven in two halves, the galaxy itself bisected by the terror of the warp storm named the Cicatrix Maledictum. The age of the Dark Imperium has begun and Humanity is fighting for its very existence. Such is the long and short of the new phase of Warhammer 40,000 as per the new 8th edition rules and the first samples of new lore we’ve seen so far paint a very grim picture of this new age. Even the return of a Primarch from death and the rising power of the Aeldar god of death Ynnead may not be enough to combat it, but dammit, the new lore is exciting as hell.
That’s where Andy Clark’s Shroud of Night fits in. Set roughly analogous to the events of Guy Haley’s introductory Dark Imperium novel, Andy’s story is about the world of Tsadrekha which has discovered and maintains its own Astronomican-like beacon in service to Imperium Nihilus. Warbands of Khorne Berserkers, Emperor’s Children, Alpha Legion and more invade Tsadrekha to either take control of this beacon or destroy it, and it is up to an Imperial Saint, Tsadrekhan Guardsmen, Adepta Sororitas and the warriors of the Imperial Fists to defend it at all costs.
There is a lot going on in Shroud of Night. On the one hand we have a large warband of Emperor’s Children led by Lord Excrucias the Flawless who wants to take control of the Beacon of Tsadrekha. Then we have the other Chaos legions who have laid siege to the planet, among them several prominent Khorne Berserkers led by one of the most infamous of their number. Then we have detachments of Astra Militarum (formerly the Imperial Guard) troops on the world who defend it alongside an Order of the Adepta Sororitas and a detachment of Imperial Fists, both regular Space Marines and the new Primaris, led by Captain Dysorian. And finally we have Excrucias’ so-called secret weapon, a squad of Alpha Legionnaires he has coerced into aiding his goals.
All of it creates a rather riotous story as all these characters intersect with each other at one point or another, and it can be difficult to follow at times. Given the inevitability that casts a shadow over the larger plot, all these viewpoints make for a tough read and you’re left wanting more by the end, because it feels that outside of a very select few, no one really gets much screen-time. If the character count had been trimmed a little, I believe the story would have unfolded much better, and it would have been easier to understand the many motivations at work for all of them, beyond the simple labels of good and evil.
November 1, 2018
Shroud of Night is an action-packed romp that focuses on one of the most interesting traitor legions. In this scenario, a small band of hyper-elite Alpha Legionnaires called The Unsung must escort someone with an unknown purpose into the heart of an imperial world that is on high alert and prepared for siege warfare. The Unsung is an interesting group, especially their leader, whose interactions with each other and outsiders are always entertaining to witness. They show no small amount of disdain for other traitor legions and the Imperium, which creates constant tension and payoff when the Unsung outmaneuvers them. Andy Clark also shows us what Traitor Marines think of the new Primaris Marines in a couple of intense scenes that reveal the conflicted opinions of Alpha Legion writ large.
The chapters written from the perspective of the Imperium are serviceable if a bit slow compared to the chapters that focus on the Unsung, but the chapters that feature St. Celestia are a treat that balances them out. The World Eaters and Emperor's Children make appearances and the Alpha Legion plays off of their strengths and weaknesses in a way not often seen in the lore.
I would recommend this to any 40k fan regardless of their interest in any specific faction because the action is nonstop and the plot introduces some new ideas into the background lore that effects everyone. The author set this up for a sequel that I will be excited to get my hands on if/when it comes out.
September 11, 2018
Apart from the hiddeous cover it's a nice read. One of the better Alpha legion stories I've read. Far better than Sons of the Hydra and Unearthed but also not quite on par with The Serpent Beneath or We Are One. We get a nice look on how the the Legion (well, this particular warband atleast) works and how they cope with being stranded between the Imperium and the dark gods of the warp. The ending leaves much to be explained and there's quite a few lose threads which might result in a sequell if we're lucky.
I would have loved to see Kharn handled better though and I really do loathe the cover.
I would have loved to see Kharn handled better though and I really do loathe the cover.
November 25, 2018
As someone who has read dozens of warhammer books and honestly mainly warhammer books, This one has stood out as one of the best. The Pacing was extremely fast book but in a great way that made all of the events seem to go by a lot fast, The main cast was easy to remember because there size (There's also a quick page that fills you in on all of them fast that had me connect and imagine them a lot quicker). This is also a great book to jump into if you haven't been around warhammer for awhile or honestly if you want to jump in, because the book gives you a very cool point of view from the alpha legion where they are re-introduced back into the world.
So if your looking for a really fun read with very fun action, fast paced, and some actually shocking plot twist I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys warhammer or fun action novels.
So if your looking for a really fun read with very fun action, fast paced, and some actually shocking plot twist I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys warhammer or fun action novels.
May 14, 2023
I barely made it through this. I think based on other ratings it is probably me. I'm not a fan of simple action books and this is where I would place this one.
To note this isn't bad in a "40K Heresy Kyme" sense; Andy Clark's writing is fine.
The story is completely predictable. The characters 2 dimensional. This book is typical bolter porn fare, and I struggle to think of redeeming features other than to say its perfectly readable.
Despite the fact this book didn't hit with me if you are a fan of the Alpha Legion, or enjoy action orientated books this may be of interest to you.
To note this isn't bad in a "40K Heresy Kyme" sense; Andy Clark's writing is fine.
The story is completely predictable. The characters 2 dimensional. This book is typical bolter porn fare, and I struggle to think of redeeming features other than to say its perfectly readable.
Despite the fact this book didn't hit with me if you are a fan of the Alpha Legion, or enjoy action orientated books this may be of interest to you.
August 20, 2017
I wasn't sure about this book at first. The first 25% was very exposition heavy and although it got better as the story developed it carried on throughout to a greater or lesser degree. However this should not put you off reading this as its a really good story and really adds to the sense that all is really not well in the dark side of the Imperium.
July 27, 2017
This book kept me in the edge of my seat untill the very end. What a thrilling book!
September 5, 2017
An excellent read from start to finish. Action packed, and full of 40k Lore references. A fine introduction to the new update 40k background.
October 16, 2018
Good read, Alpha Legion and Kharn the Betrayer, what more do you want?
February 4, 2019
Good, gives a lot of detail into the growing 40K universe and the changes brought on by the return of the Ultramarine Primarch.
July 3, 2020
Just a bunch of Chaos Marty Stus wreaking havoc and leaving unscathed to fight another day.
With a difference, the worst 40k novel I have read.
With a difference, the worst 40k novel I have read.
August 9, 2019
Don't get me wrong, this isn't a bad book. It just isn't amazing, and its foibles detract from its otherwise decent highlights. What lets it down is the editing; it could easily be some of the better bolter porn with some minor changes. It did, however, serve as an easy read while lying beach side or travelling in Croatia.
The writing is generally up to par, though some of the descriptions can get quite meandering and chaotic. There were a few scenes where flowery adjectives and chaotic sentences could've done with some careful editing, as I was struggling to understand what I was supposed to be imagining in my mind's eye. It could've been relatively easily solved with some better editing, though that is all par for the course with modern fantasy and sci-fi. I'm unsure how often the words "bolters blazing" turns up, but I am curious.
The book starts with the Slaaneshi protagonists, the comically named Excrucias and Twyst. Excrucias' name even appears in the same paragraph and "excruciating," which made me roll my eyes at the mustache-twirling villain. Their personalities are also rather forgetful; standard Slaaneshi idiocy and incompetency. Apparently, Excrucias is excruciatingly angry his elites have met an excruciating death on the planet Bloodforge. Clad in plot armour and arrogance, the Slaaneshi warlord strides onto the planet to find his boiis slaughtered by the Alpha Legion. He then points out that if they want off the planet, they can have any of his ships... after they smuggle a Cultist next to a mini-Astronomican/Pharos in the middle of an Adeptas Sororitas HQ. Accepting the mission, the Alpha Legion team up with leopard- and human-skin wearing CSMs.
The Alpha Legion is lead by Kassar, the antagonist, whom is the Captain of a Harrow, or what is left of one. We are given a whole slew of names of roughly 20 Alpha Legionnaires, which is a bit much. This could've done with some better editing - I was struggling to figure out exactly who was who and what made them unique, and as opposed to Sons of the Hydra or the various Night Lords novels where you only had a handful of characters. The plot, which is a fine bolter porn plot, wouldn't have taken any damage from splitting the party, so to speak, and having them as two squads. It would've made it easier keeping track of who the flamethrower-wielding maniac was and whom the secret-obsessed maniac was. Also, by narrowing the amount of squad members, it would allow them more screen time. They are all pretty decent characters that mostly deserved a bit more time to shine, but the ending does set up a sequel.
Khârn and St. Celestine have some cameo appearances which serves the plot in a meaningful manner. I originally thought having both would feel a bit forced, but Andy Clark weaved them seamlessly into the plot. The relationship between the OldMarine Imperial Fist Captain and his new Primaris Marines is interesting in that they show that they're not entirely trusted by the OldMarines. The book could safely have ditched the Fists entirely, but I'm presuming there's a corporate reason for their inclusion. Regardless, it's refreshing to having Primaris Marines killed after a tough battle rather than have them butcher Chaos Space Marines sans nametags with impunity, as per Dark Imperium.
All in all, it's an alright read which would've benefited from some additional editing to really shine.
The writing is generally up to par, though some of the descriptions can get quite meandering and chaotic. There were a few scenes where flowery adjectives and chaotic sentences could've done with some careful editing, as I was struggling to understand what I was supposed to be imagining in my mind's eye. It could've been relatively easily solved with some better editing, though that is all par for the course with modern fantasy and sci-fi. I'm unsure how often the words "bolters blazing" turns up, but I am curious.
The book starts with the Slaaneshi protagonists, the comically named Excrucias and Twyst. Excrucias' name even appears in the same paragraph and "excruciating," which made me roll my eyes at the mustache-twirling villain. Their personalities are also rather forgetful; standard Slaaneshi idiocy and incompetency. Apparently, Excrucias is excruciatingly angry his elites have met an excruciating death on the planet Bloodforge. Clad in plot armour and arrogance, the Slaaneshi warlord strides onto the planet to find his boiis slaughtered by the Alpha Legion. He then points out that if they want off the planet, they can have any of his ships... after they smuggle a Cultist next to a mini-Astronomican/Pharos in the middle of an Adeptas Sororitas HQ. Accepting the mission, the Alpha Legion team up with leopard- and human-skin wearing CSMs.
The Alpha Legion is lead by Kassar, the antagonist, whom is the Captain of a Harrow, or what is left of one. We are given a whole slew of names of roughly 20 Alpha Legionnaires, which is a bit much. This could've done with some better editing - I was struggling to figure out exactly who was who and what made them unique, and as opposed to Sons of the Hydra or the various Night Lords novels where you only had a handful of characters. The plot, which is a fine bolter porn plot, wouldn't have taken any damage from splitting the party, so to speak, and having them as two squads. It would've made it easier keeping track of who the flamethrower-wielding maniac was and whom the secret-obsessed maniac was. Also, by narrowing the amount of squad members, it would allow them more screen time. They are all pretty decent characters that mostly deserved a bit more time to shine, but the ending does set up a sequel.
Khârn and St. Celestine have some cameo appearances which serves the plot in a meaningful manner. I originally thought having both would feel a bit forced, but Andy Clark weaved them seamlessly into the plot. The relationship between the OldMarine Imperial Fist Captain and his new Primaris Marines is interesting in that they show that they're not entirely trusted by the OldMarines. The book could safely have ditched the Fists entirely, but I'm presuming there's a corporate reason for their inclusion. Regardless, it's refreshing to having Primaris Marines killed after a tough battle rather than have them butcher Chaos Space Marines sans nametags with impunity, as per Dark Imperium.
All in all, it's an alright read which would've benefited from some additional editing to really shine.
May 27, 2022
This is a wonderful action story. I have to admit that I do not read that much stories of traitor legions for simple reason majority of characters are downright psychotic and in most cases when not cackling as lunatics, act as a gateway to Warp creatures. One book then gets pretty much the same as any other.
Well it is not case here. Main protagonists in this story are Alpha legionnaires, Unsung war-band. And man, they are truly an echo (of sorts) from years past. Being heretic marines, they do come into contact with the Warp and its creatures but they keep tot he maxim of Alpha Legion - never to succumb to the Dark Gods and their promises. While acting as mercenary band it is visible that beliefs of Alpha legionnaires are very different from other traitor legions. I truly wonder where will these stories about post-Heresy Alpha Legion take us to.
And what to say about Unsung - kick ass outfit for sure :) We first find them on the planet-turned-arena, Bloodforge, where they got stranded and then for years bested any Chaos troops and champions and killed them all off. This brought them to attention of Emperors Children who decides to use them in quest on world of Tsandrekha with goal to capture the Imperial beacon, only light remaining in the sector after rift from Chaos infested space threw the shroud of night across it. Thrown into fray Alpha's will show their martial prowess and their specific approach to warfare while fighting both Imperial forces and Khorne berserkers led by Kharn. Author manages to show the raw bestiality of World Eaters and Khorne's Warp creatures and the sheer desperation of Imperial forces while defending the hive cities against these berserker hordes. This is also time of introduction of Primaris Space Marines in greater numbers and it was funny to watch Alpha's coming toe to toe with them.
I wont go into any more details here because I do not want to spoil the story for others but considering that story spans several days of heavy combat on Tsandrekha characters got fleshed out pretty good on all sides. Ending is executed in a way that we might expect more Unsung adventures in the future (which I personally I just cannot wait for :)).
Highly recommended.
Well it is not case here. Main protagonists in this story are Alpha legionnaires, Unsung war-band. And man, they are truly an echo (of sorts) from years past. Being heretic marines, they do come into contact with the Warp and its creatures but they keep tot he maxim of Alpha Legion - never to succumb to the Dark Gods and their promises. While acting as mercenary band it is visible that beliefs of Alpha legionnaires are very different from other traitor legions. I truly wonder where will these stories about post-Heresy Alpha Legion take us to.
And what to say about Unsung - kick ass outfit for sure :) We first find them on the planet-turned-arena, Bloodforge, where they got stranded and then for years bested any Chaos troops and champions and killed them all off. This brought them to attention of Emperors Children who decides to use them in quest on world of Tsandrekha with goal to capture the Imperial beacon, only light remaining in the sector after rift from Chaos infested space threw the shroud of night across it. Thrown into fray Alpha's will show their martial prowess and their specific approach to warfare while fighting both Imperial forces and Khorne berserkers led by Kharn. Author manages to show the raw bestiality of World Eaters and Khorne's Warp creatures and the sheer desperation of Imperial forces while defending the hive cities against these berserker hordes. This is also time of introduction of Primaris Space Marines in greater numbers and it was funny to watch Alpha's coming toe to toe with them.
I wont go into any more details here because I do not want to spoil the story for others but considering that story spans several days of heavy combat on Tsandrekha characters got fleshed out pretty good on all sides. Ending is executed in a way that we might expect more Unsung adventures in the future (which I personally I just cannot wait for :)).
Highly recommended.
February 18, 2023
Solid book that presented itself as a heist mission that was being conducted by the Alpha legion. This is a story of command, brotherhood, loyalty and conviction against temptation (by any of the 4 chaos gods who in the lore can provide boons of power - which the Alpha legion vehemently deny use-of).
In terms of side points of views that are part of the novel, Captain Dysorian with his retinue of Imperial Fists, alongside a contingent of the Sisters of Battle was a good part of the story in which many 30k/40k novels have difficulty in being part of the plot; by this I mean that a side story could have been scrapped, and nothing of value would have been lost. However, in this case, that is not so; the Fists and Sisters provide additional context into the defense of the Hive world they are in, while the Alpha legion continue with their clandestine mission.
Overall, this was a satisfactory piece of 40k literature that definitely was enjoyable for me in the advancing 40k timeline (the cicatrix maledictum has already occurred for fans who understand the reference).
I was also very pleased with how how Kharn's legend and fear amongst his foes was exemplified in this book. This book has been in my backlog since Dec. 18, 2018.
In terms of side points of views that are part of the novel, Captain Dysorian with his retinue of Imperial Fists, alongside a contingent of the Sisters of Battle was a good part of the story in which many 30k/40k novels have difficulty in being part of the plot; by this I mean that a side story could have been scrapped, and nothing of value would have been lost. However, in this case, that is not so; the Fists and Sisters provide additional context into the defense of the Hive world they are in, while the Alpha legion continue with their clandestine mission.
Overall, this was a satisfactory piece of 40k literature that definitely was enjoyable for me in the advancing 40k timeline (the cicatrix maledictum has already occurred for fans who understand the reference).
I was also very pleased with how how Kharn's legend and fear amongst his foes was exemplified in this book. This book has been in my backlog since Dec. 18, 2018.
September 16, 2021
It's not often I stumble across a Warhammer 40,000 book told from "the bad side"... well, sure, you're right in saying there really aren't any good guys in this franchise—but you know what I mean!
Shroud of Night is a book about a small detachment of Alpha Legionnaires that are stranded on a planet currently being consumed by war and destruction. The forces of Khorne and Slaanesh besiege the Imperial planet of Tsadrekha and its only hope of survival is the loyalist forces of the Sisters of Battle and the Imperial Fists. These Alpha Legionnaires are soon forced to safe-guard a lowly heretic cultist who claims to have the power to destroy the heavily guarded beacon deep within Imperial defenses.
The book reads a lot like an action movie, with dead-ends they must get around, deadly antagonists they must survive, twists, and surprises that keep the reader wondering what will happen next. Alpha Legion might be a notorious chapter of the traitorous Chaos Space Marines, but these heretics live firmly within the grey area of good and bad.
Shroud of Night is a book about a small detachment of Alpha Legionnaires that are stranded on a planet currently being consumed by war and destruction. The forces of Khorne and Slaanesh besiege the Imperial planet of Tsadrekha and its only hope of survival is the loyalist forces of the Sisters of Battle and the Imperial Fists. These Alpha Legionnaires are soon forced to safe-guard a lowly heretic cultist who claims to have the power to destroy the heavily guarded beacon deep within Imperial defenses.
The book reads a lot like an action movie, with dead-ends they must get around, deadly antagonists they must survive, twists, and surprises that keep the reader wondering what will happen next. Alpha Legion might be a notorious chapter of the traitorous Chaos Space Marines, but these heretics live firmly within the grey area of good and bad.
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