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Ciaphas Cain #5
Pflicht und Schuldigkeit
On Periremunda the populace are rioting. With local forces unable to contain the widespread civil disorder, Commissar Cain and his regiment of Valhallans are called in to help. However, it seems there is more to the rebellion than first appeared and Cain suspects sinister forces at work behind the scenes. When the commissar is reunited with Inquisitor Amberley Vail it seems his fears are realised. In this the fifth book in the popular Ciaphas Cain series our hero is thrown into a deadly conspiracy that even he might not be able to emerge from alive.
359 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 22, 2007
104 people are currently reading
766 people want to read
About the author
Sandy Mitchell
103 books420 followersSandy Mitchell is a pseudonym of Alex Stewart, who has been a full-time writer since the mid nineteen eighties. The majority of his work as Sandy has been tie-in fiction for Games Workshop's Warhammer fantasy and Warhammer 40,000 science fiction lines. The exceptions have been a novelisation of episodes from the high tech thriller series Bugs, for which he also worked as a scriptwriter under his own name, some Warhammer roleplaying game material, and a scattering of short stories and magazine articles.
His hobbies include the martial arts of Aikido and Iaido, miniature wargaming, role-playing games, and pottering about on the family allotment.
He lives in the North Essex village of Earls Colne, with his wife Judith and daughter Hester.
His hobbies include the martial arts of Aikido and Iaido, miniature wargaming, role-playing games, and pottering about on the family allotment.
He lives in the North Essex village of Earls Colne, with his wife Judith and daughter Hester.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
October 28, 2016
This is the fifth book I read from Sandy Mitchell and Commissar Ciaphas Cain and his fateful sidekick Jurgen.
Again he returns to kick some Tyranids butts...
You've got Cain and Jurgen in Periremunda to quench a supposedly chaos riot. BUT because one enemy is not enough they soon discover that they are in the route of an invasion of Tyranids. OF COURSE, this was not enough and Cain and Jurgen have to deal with the Inquisition as well.
Not as fast as other books in my opinion and after reading 6 books by him I must say that my favourite one was also the smaller one. Caves of Ice.
I think that most of this story could have been told with 256 pages or something like that. Too much fillers and at times it feel I was reading things that happened in other books.
Nevertheless, a good adittion if you like Ciaphas Cain and Jurgen. If you have read the last four books you are by now used to him (Ciaphas) and the author way of telling stories so you will enjoy this one as well. If you are new to this... you will not be lost but in my opinion start with Caves of Ice (even if it the second published).
Again he returns to kick some Tyranids butts...
You've got Cain and Jurgen in Periremunda to quench a supposedly chaos riot. BUT because one enemy is not enough they soon discover that they are in the route of an invasion of Tyranids. OF COURSE, this was not enough and Cain and Jurgen have to deal with the Inquisition as well.
Not as fast as other books in my opinion and after reading 6 books by him I must say that my favourite one was also the smaller one. Caves of Ice.
I think that most of this story could have been told with 256 pages or something like that. Too much fillers and at times it feel I was reading things that happened in other books.
Nevertheless, a good adittion if you like Ciaphas Cain and Jurgen. If you have read the last four books you are by now used to him (Ciaphas) and the author way of telling stories so you will enjoy this one as well. If you are new to this... you will not be lost but in my opinion start with Caves of Ice (even if it the second published).
October 23, 2023
Rating this is kind of difficult for me. I mean, at this point in the series, we know what we're getting. Cain is snarky and funny as always, all the tropes are there, which is both the biggest advantage and disadvantage, these books are getting very formulaic very fast, yet at the same time, it _is_ a very entertaining formula so I find it hard to accurately rate this. From a pure entertainment factor, it would be an easy 4 star, but if I compare it to the earlier parts of the series, it falls off a little, which is mostly down to its story, especially the last act.
Now I'll try to avoid spoilers, but the last act and its big reveal comes somewhat out of nowhere and feels tacked on, it tries to do too much in very little space and makes the rest of the book feel like an introduction that doesn't really lead anywhere. It's not an awful read and I wouldn't recommend skipping it, if you liked the Cain books up until this point, there's enough to make you chuckle and smile here, but it's not one of Cain's stronger showings.
Now I'll try to avoid spoilers, but the last act and its big reveal comes somewhat out of nowhere and feels tacked on, it tries to do too much in very little space and makes the rest of the book feel like an introduction that doesn't really lead anywhere. It's not an awful read and I wouldn't recommend skipping it, if you liked the Cain books up until this point, there's enough to make you chuckle and smile here, but it's not one of Cain's stronger showings.
November 24, 2024
Canonically set several years after the Book 4, but immediately picking after the events set up during that story, ‘Duty Calls’, sees Commissar Cain, his trusted aide gunner Jurgen, as well as the capable 597th Valhallan regiment deployed to the planet of Periremunda, which is, as usual, on the verge of a seditious insurgency. This is after all the Imperium of Mankind, where, at the best of times, you can say you’re alive and not being tortured as an indentured slave. The standards for living are pretty low.
Like many of the previous planets we’ve seen in the series, the unique geography of Periremunda is manifested in the fact that it is made up entirely of plateaus. The rest of the planet, its ground level at least, is covered by oceans of magma and desolate landscape which pretty much ensures survival is impossible.
This provides a unique logistical nightmare, as each of the plateaus, ranging in sizes of a few kilometers, to some large enough to hold large cities, pose a challenge to properly defend and root out any insurgents. However, in hindsight, seeing the eventual which the planet suffers, this unique geography also provides the defenders a lot of breathing room.
Joining our heroes this time around, for the first time since Book 1, is the lovely yet hyper lethal Inquisitor Amberley Vail. And you know when an agent of the Ordo Xenos is personally visiting a planet, shit is officially about to go down.
Unlike ‘Death of Glory’, which was characterized by the theme of survival and resistance, Duty Calls is characterized by one word, assassination. The cowardly commissar somehow finds himself the center of attention, due to his glorious legend as ‘Hero of the Imperium’, as well as the usual series of accomplishments, primarily aimed towards survival, but misinterpreted as courage under fire.
This newfound planet wide fame, framed as media propaganda, puts him under the crosshairs for nefarious agents functioning in the planet, who spare no expense in trying to remove him as a dangerous variable. But, thanks to his preternatural luck, instinct, skill, and no small amounts of assistance from the ever loyal and capable aide Jurgen, the Commissar manages to turn the table on his opponents and claim yet another glorious victory in the name of the Emperor; this is par for course.
Unlike previous iterations, the action is more personalized. Even as planetwide conflicts break out in the wake of their arrival, for the most part, Cain and his retinue are often embroiled in thwarting the continuous attempts on his life, as well as uncovering the secrets and conspiracies that lay hidden. This provides a lot of fertile ground, as the Commissar overcomes a street ambush, multiple assassination attempts from rogue psykers, disabling a bomb in the last moment, and playing hide and seek with a squad of armed servo skulls programmed to fill him with lead.
The threads of the plot, which were left unsolved in Book 4, regarding the is resolved, as the full implications of Cain’s discovery are brought to light.
Other than that, there’s nothing much to write home about. While the action scenes are engaging, the way it ties to the wider plot is largely ambiguous. But hey, it’s not like I’m expecting Shakespeare when picking up a Warhammer novel. There is a lot of fighting, shooting and shouting, and I consider that satisfying enough.
Like many of the previous planets we’ve seen in the series, the unique geography of Periremunda is manifested in the fact that it is made up entirely of plateaus. The rest of the planet, its ground level at least, is covered by oceans of magma and desolate landscape which pretty much ensures survival is impossible.
This provides a unique logistical nightmare, as each of the plateaus, ranging in sizes of a few kilometers, to some large enough to hold large cities, pose a challenge to properly defend and root out any insurgents. However, in hindsight, seeing the eventual which the planet suffers, this unique geography also provides the defenders a lot of breathing room.
Joining our heroes this time around, for the first time since Book 1, is the lovely yet hyper lethal Inquisitor Amberley Vail. And you know when an agent of the Ordo Xenos is personally visiting a planet, shit is officially about to go down.
Unlike ‘Death of Glory’, which was characterized by the theme of survival and resistance, Duty Calls is characterized by one word, assassination. The cowardly commissar somehow finds himself the center of attention, due to his glorious legend as ‘Hero of the Imperium’, as well as the usual series of accomplishments, primarily aimed towards survival, but misinterpreted as courage under fire.
This newfound planet wide fame, framed as media propaganda, puts him under the crosshairs for nefarious agents functioning in the planet, who spare no expense in trying to remove him as a dangerous variable. But, thanks to his preternatural luck, instinct, skill, and no small amounts of assistance from the ever loyal and capable aide Jurgen, the Commissar manages to turn the table on his opponents and claim yet another glorious victory in the name of the Emperor; this is par for course.
Unlike previous iterations, the action is more personalized. Even as planetwide conflicts break out in the wake of their arrival, for the most part, Cain and his retinue are often embroiled in thwarting the continuous attempts on his life, as well as uncovering the secrets and conspiracies that lay hidden. This provides a lot of fertile ground, as the Commissar overcomes a street ambush, multiple assassination attempts from rogue psykers, disabling a bomb in the last moment, and playing hide and seek with a squad of armed servo skulls programmed to fill him with lead.
The threads of the plot, which were left unsolved in Book 4, regarding the is resolved, as the full implications of Cain’s discovery are brought to light.
Other than that, there’s nothing much to write home about. While the action scenes are engaging, the way it ties to the wider plot is largely ambiguous. But hey, it’s not like I’m expecting Shakespeare when picking up a Warhammer novel. There is a lot of fighting, shooting and shouting, and I consider that satisfying enough.
May 18, 2025
Hard to judge this one! Its the same winning combo as usual, great characters, witty take on the setting, fun scenarios! That being said, I definitely felt the formula on this one. Very similar to previous books, just happens these books are enjoyable! Given that, the revelations in the third act gave me hope for a bit of a shake up in the future? I'll definitely keep reading!
July 18, 2023
A typically entertaining and fun Ciaphas Cain novel but just not as good as the earlier books sadly. Gets quite repetitive at times with very standard scenarios playing out, nothing too unique or interesting to get you really invested in the story.
November 3, 2018
It's been a few years since I read a Ciaphas Cain novel, but this was my least favorite of the series so far. The novel felt stale. Although not surprising, the overall structure was very similar to the previous novels, and even dialog from Cain felt quite repititive. The number of times Cain would say something along the lines of "knowing what I know now, I never would have done XYZ due to the danger it would place me in."
Overall a disappointing novel. The first two Ciaphis Cain novels were my favorite, and my enjoyment of them declined since then. It's less that the quality of the novels have gotten worse and more that they are all so similar to each other.
I still own Cain's Last Stand, so I may consider reading that in the future, but if I didn't already own the next book it's unlikely I would be motivated to by the next one.
Overall a disappointing novel. The first two Ciaphis Cain novels were my favorite, and my enjoyment of them declined since then. It's less that the quality of the novels have gotten worse and more that they are all so similar to each other.
I still own Cain's Last Stand, so I may consider reading that in the future, but if I didn't already own the next book it's unlikely I would be motivated to by the next one.
May 11, 2018
The Cain novels are like pulp action/war movies - you know the hero is going to survive, there's going to be some plot twist, he's going to have a moment where he almost dies and either survives through an ingenious plan or the cavalry showing up, and happily ever inevitable sequel(s).
The Cain novels are this in 40k.
Sandy keeps the writing interesting, though not always fresh. Cain is secretly completely self-interested, Jurgen smells bad and has infinite pockets, the melta gun is heavy, bulky, produces an actinic glare when fired, and Cain drinks tanna tea... etc.
If you're looking for character development, growth, and change, look further. If you want light, entertaining war action set in a grimdarkness future of onlywar, these are worth a read.
The Cain novels are this in 40k.
Sandy keeps the writing interesting, though not always fresh. Cain is secretly completely self-interested, Jurgen smells bad and has infinite pockets, the melta gun is heavy, bulky, produces an actinic glare when fired, and Cain drinks tanna tea... etc.
If you're looking for character development, growth, and change, look further. If you want light, entertaining war action set in a grimdarkness future of onlywar, these are worth a read.
May 25, 2025
3.75/5 . Some spoilers about the direction the plot goes in.
Enjoyed the main Tyranid storyline. Interesting planet (all human habitation is on high up plateaus as the lower planet is too harsh to live on). Didn’t like the inquisition plotline or the chaos cult stuff as much.
Enjoyed the main Tyranid storyline. Interesting planet (all human habitation is on high up plateaus as the lower planet is too harsh to live on). Didn’t like the inquisition plotline or the chaos cult stuff as much.
September 4, 2023
Pretty mid. A few if the jokes were good, but the plotting was weirdly unfocused for this kind of thing. It’s a good enough time, but a step down from Death or Glory.
May 13, 2017
A planet-wide insurrection has broken out on Periremunda, necessitating the deployment of the Imperial Guard to the planet to help crush it. The Valhallan 597th is part of the deployment, along with its increasingly legendary commissar, Ciaphas Cain, hero of the Imperium. As usual, Cain hopes for a quiet, simple assignment where he can sit out the trouble, and also as usual he finds himself instead at the cutting edge of danger. This time, a simple rebellion is revealed to mask a whole number of other threats which Cain and his ever-faithful aide Jurgen have to deal with. In this case, operations are complicated by Periremunda's unique geography, a world of burning, uninhabitable deserts with settled plateaus rising above them.
Duty Calls is the fifth Ciaphas Cain novel and, disappointingly, is a little bit of a let-down after the terrific Death or Glory. The good news is that we are reunited with the Valhallans 597th and also with Inquisitor Amberley Veil and her retinue of demented allies. The bad news is that Mitchell has seriously dialled down the humour and amusing references in this book. There are a few (mostly restricted to the footnotes and the extracts from General Sulla's ludicrously bombastic memoirs that provide a commentary on events where Cain is not present), but this is a more serious novel than its predecessors.
Not that this is a bad thing. Mitchell is great at describing the action which is the cornerstone of any Warhammer 40,000 novel, and is also solid at handling horror and drama as well as the traditional black humour of the books. So whilst Duty Calls won't have you laughing as much as its predecessor, it's still a solid and readable action-adventure tale, refreshingly short and to the point with a good line in characterisation. Whilst the book's main storyline is self-contained, some dangling storylines are picked up from Death or Glory and carried through to the next book in the series, Cain's Last Stand, resulting in the sense of bigger events unfolding outside of this one conflict.
Mitchell has created an interesting world in Periremunda and describes its scenery and geography with gusto. Elsewhere the book suffers from perhaps a tad too much reliance on the Ciaphas Cain formula - Cain is bluff and cowardly but emerges a hero, whilst Jurgen and his melta gun and psi-inhibiting abilities save the day more than once - as well as a sense of plot overload. As well as the rebellion, Mitchell also jams in genestealers, Chaos cults, a renegade Inquisitor and a meeting with a particularly fanatical branch of the Sisters of Battle. As a result some elements are under-developed. The planetary arbitrator goes from being a major character at the start to virtually vanishing altogether, whilst Cain's ideological clash between his pragmatism and the Sisters' idealism is never developed to its full potential.
Still, even slightly sub-par Cain remains highly entertaining and readable. Duty Calls (***½) is available now as part of the Defender of the Imperium omnibus in the UK and USA.
Duty Calls is the fifth Ciaphas Cain novel and, disappointingly, is a little bit of a let-down after the terrific Death or Glory. The good news is that we are reunited with the Valhallans 597th and also with Inquisitor Amberley Veil and her retinue of demented allies. The bad news is that Mitchell has seriously dialled down the humour and amusing references in this book. There are a few (mostly restricted to the footnotes and the extracts from General Sulla's ludicrously bombastic memoirs that provide a commentary on events where Cain is not present), but this is a more serious novel than its predecessors.
Not that this is a bad thing. Mitchell is great at describing the action which is the cornerstone of any Warhammer 40,000 novel, and is also solid at handling horror and drama as well as the traditional black humour of the books. So whilst Duty Calls won't have you laughing as much as its predecessor, it's still a solid and readable action-adventure tale, refreshingly short and to the point with a good line in characterisation. Whilst the book's main storyline is self-contained, some dangling storylines are picked up from Death or Glory and carried through to the next book in the series, Cain's Last Stand, resulting in the sense of bigger events unfolding outside of this one conflict.
Mitchell has created an interesting world in Periremunda and describes its scenery and geography with gusto. Elsewhere the book suffers from perhaps a tad too much reliance on the Ciaphas Cain formula - Cain is bluff and cowardly but emerges a hero, whilst Jurgen and his melta gun and psi-inhibiting abilities save the day more than once - as well as a sense of plot overload. As well as the rebellion, Mitchell also jams in genestealers, Chaos cults, a renegade Inquisitor and a meeting with a particularly fanatical branch of the Sisters of Battle. As a result some elements are under-developed. The planetary arbitrator goes from being a major character at the start to virtually vanishing altogether, whilst Cain's ideological clash between his pragmatism and the Sisters' idealism is never developed to its full potential.
Still, even slightly sub-par Cain remains highly entertaining and readable. Duty Calls (***½) is available now as part of the Defender of the Imperium omnibus in the UK and USA.
June 5, 2024
Rating of 4.5.
One of the most entertaining authors of Warhammer fiction, Sandy Mitchell, continues to shine with the fifth book in his excellent Ciaphas Cain series, Duty Calls.
Commissar Ciaphas Cain, hero of the Imperium and self-confessed self-serving coward, continues his exciting and deadly adventures when a new dark threat rises to destroy humanity. After his last harrowing adventure with the Valhallan 597th, Cain is keen for a less deadly experience, and his new deployment to help crack down on civil unrest on the planet of Periremunda seems to be the ticket. However, nothing is ever simple when Cain is involved.
Upon arriving on Periremunda, Cain quickly finds his life in danger as a series of assassination attempts are made against him. Realising that his assailants are genestealers, the deadly scouts of the Tyranid swarm, Cain begins to understand the true danger Periremunda is in, as the genstealers herald the approach a Hive Fleet. But unstoppable hordes of alien creatures are the least of Cain’s worries as he is reunited with his old flame, Inquisitor Amberley Vail.
Ostensibly on Periremunda to help the Imperial Guard stave off the Tyranid invasion, it soon becomes apparent that Vail is there for a darker reason. Something incredibly important has been hidden on the planet that has the potential to change the entire Imperium. Forced to assist Vail, Cain and his trusty aide, Jurgen, find themselves thrust into the deadly intricacies of a battle between hidden underground factions. But with hungry Tyranids all around, deadly assassins gunning for Cain and a mysterious Chaos cult causing mischief, can Cain survive his deadliest encounter yet?
Duty Calls was an awesome addition to the Ciaphas Cain series that builds on several of the prior adventures, while also testing the protagonist in some fun new ways. I loved the interesting story contained with Duty Calls, and this was one of Mitchell’s stronger additions to the series.
To see the full review, click on the link below:
https://unseenlibrary.com/2024/06/05/...
For other exciting reviews and content, check out my blog at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/
One of the most entertaining authors of Warhammer fiction, Sandy Mitchell, continues to shine with the fifth book in his excellent Ciaphas Cain series, Duty Calls.
Commissar Ciaphas Cain, hero of the Imperium and self-confessed self-serving coward, continues his exciting and deadly adventures when a new dark threat rises to destroy humanity. After his last harrowing adventure with the Valhallan 597th, Cain is keen for a less deadly experience, and his new deployment to help crack down on civil unrest on the planet of Periremunda seems to be the ticket. However, nothing is ever simple when Cain is involved.
Upon arriving on Periremunda, Cain quickly finds his life in danger as a series of assassination attempts are made against him. Realising that his assailants are genestealers, the deadly scouts of the Tyranid swarm, Cain begins to understand the true danger Periremunda is in, as the genstealers herald the approach a Hive Fleet. But unstoppable hordes of alien creatures are the least of Cain’s worries as he is reunited with his old flame, Inquisitor Amberley Vail.
Ostensibly on Periremunda to help the Imperial Guard stave off the Tyranid invasion, it soon becomes apparent that Vail is there for a darker reason. Something incredibly important has been hidden on the planet that has the potential to change the entire Imperium. Forced to assist Vail, Cain and his trusty aide, Jurgen, find themselves thrust into the deadly intricacies of a battle between hidden underground factions. But with hungry Tyranids all around, deadly assassins gunning for Cain and a mysterious Chaos cult causing mischief, can Cain survive his deadliest encounter yet?
Duty Calls was an awesome addition to the Ciaphas Cain series that builds on several of the prior adventures, while also testing the protagonist in some fun new ways. I loved the interesting story contained with Duty Calls, and this was one of Mitchell’s stronger additions to the series.
To see the full review, click on the link below:
https://unseenlibrary.com/2024/06/05/...
For other exciting reviews and content, check out my blog at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/
January 20, 2024
Allez, une nouvelle aventure du commissaire Ciaphas Cain. On retrouve notre cher personnage sur la planète de Periremunda et c'est encore le bordel sur cette planète à cause de plusieurs facteurs.
Alors, sur la planète de Periremunda donc, il y a un air de soulèvement parmi la population. En effet, il y a plusieurs soucis sur cette planète car une invasion d'une ruche tyranide approche et c'est la paaaaaanique sur place. De plus, il y aurait, autant parmi la population et l'armée, des humains qui seraient infectés par des spores de la ruche et donc serait des genres d'hybrides (j'ai oublié le terme qu'ils utilisent dans l'histoire). Malheureusement, Cain ne sait pas à qui faire confiance et le dirigeant de la planète ainsi que les hauts gradés de l'Armée impériale sont les seuls à qui Cain fait confiance, avec également l'inquisitrice Vail, le régiment de Valhalla et le fidèle Jurgen.
Si cela ne suffisait pas, voilà qu'arrive discrètement l'inquisitrice Vail justement et personne ne doit savoir qu'elle est là, cela doit rester secret. Elle est là pour retrouver un artefact xenos teinté du warp qu'un membre du Mechanicus traître aurait en sa possession. De plus, il y a également un Inquisiteur, qui se sert des Soeurs de bataille. En plus de devoir gérer les tyranides, gérer le bon du mauvais grain parmi l'armée et l'histoire dans laquelle l'Inquisitrice Vail l'a amené.
Bref, c'est un vrai bordel et j'ai remarqué qu'ici, c'est l'une des rares fois où Ciapas Cain a été aussi proche de la mort car au vu des deux grosses batailles du roman, il aurait pu y passer maintes fois. Ce fut un roman assez intéressant, j'ai apprécié que l'on voit un peu plus l'inquisitrice Amberley Vail et son implication, ses méthodes, ça fait du bien de la voir un peu plus mise en avant et dans l'action. L'ennemi est encore une fois les tyranides, je me serai attendu à un autre type d'ennemi car nous avions déjà eu les tyranides, les orks, très légèrement des Nécrons mais j'aurai voulu quelque chose d'autre. En conclusion, cela reste néanmoins une bonne lecture et un bon tome.
Alors, sur la planète de Periremunda donc, il y a un air de soulèvement parmi la population. En effet, il y a plusieurs soucis sur cette planète car une invasion d'une ruche tyranide approche et c'est la paaaaaanique sur place. De plus, il y aurait, autant parmi la population et l'armée, des humains qui seraient infectés par des spores de la ruche et donc serait des genres d'hybrides (j'ai oublié le terme qu'ils utilisent dans l'histoire). Malheureusement, Cain ne sait pas à qui faire confiance et le dirigeant de la planète ainsi que les hauts gradés de l'Armée impériale sont les seuls à qui Cain fait confiance, avec également l'inquisitrice Vail, le régiment de Valhalla et le fidèle Jurgen.
Si cela ne suffisait pas, voilà qu'arrive discrètement l'inquisitrice Vail justement et personne ne doit savoir qu'elle est là, cela doit rester secret. Elle est là pour retrouver un artefact xenos teinté du warp qu'un membre du Mechanicus traître aurait en sa possession. De plus, il y a également un Inquisiteur, qui se sert des Soeurs de bataille. En plus de devoir gérer les tyranides, gérer le bon du mauvais grain parmi l'armée et l'histoire dans laquelle l'Inquisitrice Vail l'a amené.
Bref, c'est un vrai bordel et j'ai remarqué qu'ici, c'est l'une des rares fois où Ciapas Cain a été aussi proche de la mort car au vu des deux grosses batailles du roman, il aurait pu y passer maintes fois. Ce fut un roman assez intéressant, j'ai apprécié que l'on voit un peu plus l'inquisitrice Amberley Vail et son implication, ses méthodes, ça fait du bien de la voir un peu plus mise en avant et dans l'action. L'ennemi est encore une fois les tyranides, je me serai attendu à un autre type d'ennemi car nous avions déjà eu les tyranides, les orks, très légèrement des Nécrons mais j'aurai voulu quelque chose d'autre. En conclusion, cela reste néanmoins une bonne lecture et un bon tome.
July 9, 2021
Duty Calls is yet another solid entry into the Cain Archives. It wasn't perfect, mainly as I felt nothing outwardly new was happening for the most part. There was overall plot progression involved but, for the most part, it very much felt like raking over old ground with a new rake rather than breaking new ground in any meaningful way.
Cain's inward thoughts of cowardice and self-preservation, as per usual, keep the story feeling light-hearted and engaging to us normal folk to whom dashing heroism and the ability to face down slavering hordes of aliens does not come naturally. It's truly wonderful to have a hero to whom it also does not only not come naturally, but who wishes it simply did not come at all.
Duty Calls explains why the, seemingly random, decision was made in book four to set the story well before Cain's time with the Valhallan 597th, as parts of the plot from book four directly merge into parts of the plot with Duty Calls. I had wondered why the sudden shift in timelines and, due to the fact that Amberly is curating the Cain Collection, it makes sense that she'd pop that in before this one. So it's a nice, authentic feel that someone other than Cain is setting these out in a coherent timeline of events order rather than simply a chronological one.
Cain's inward thoughts of cowardice and self-preservation, as per usual, keep the story feeling light-hearted and engaging to us normal folk to whom dashing heroism and the ability to face down slavering hordes of aliens does not come naturally. It's truly wonderful to have a hero to whom it also does not only not come naturally, but who wishes it simply did not come at all.
Duty Calls explains why the, seemingly random, decision was made in book four to set the story well before Cain's time with the Valhallan 597th, as parts of the plot from book four directly merge into parts of the plot with Duty Calls. I had wondered why the sudden shift in timelines and, due to the fact that Amberly is curating the Cain Collection, it makes sense that she'd pop that in before this one. So it's a nice, authentic feel that someone other than Cain is setting these out in a coherent timeline of events order rather than simply a chronological one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2019
4.5 stars rounded up.
While it's probably an overreach to claim that the Ciaphas Cain books are the only WH40k books worth reading, they're certainly the only ones that interest me. Sandy Mitchell lampshades the grimdark WH40k setting just enough to make it interesting, rather than the perilous tower of cliches it actually is played straight. Both Cain and Amberly are fuller, more rounded characters than I'd ever expect to find in a WH40k book. So a book where Amberly is around for more than her customary bit at the end was pretty great.
As with all the books in the series ( thus far anyway ) it could've done with a better editor ( assuming the Black Library bothers ) as when Cain and Amberly are headed to Gavarrone their pilot tells them "We're on final approach now" and then says the same thing ( literally "We're on final approach now" ) less than half a page later. I know one doesn't come to a Black Library book looking for high literature but that was a bit much.
While it's probably an overreach to claim that the Ciaphas Cain books are the only WH40k books worth reading, they're certainly the only ones that interest me. Sandy Mitchell lampshades the grimdark WH40k setting just enough to make it interesting, rather than the perilous tower of cliches it actually is played straight. Both Cain and Amberly are fuller, more rounded characters than I'd ever expect to find in a WH40k book. So a book where Amberly is around for more than her customary bit at the end was pretty great.
As with all the books in the series ( thus far anyway ) it could've done with a better editor ( assuming the Black Library bothers ) as when Cain and Amberly are headed to Gavarrone their pilot tells them "We're on final approach now" and then says the same thing ( literally "We're on final approach now" ) less than half a page later. I know one doesn't come to a Black Library book looking for high literature but that was a bit much.
February 29, 2020
The world Cain finds himself on in this book is so interesting; half desert, half lava, with the only habitable spaces being plateaus that rise above the planet's surface.
After the last book I was happy to have Cain back with the 597th and seeing a bit more of Kasteen, Brocklaw and even Sulla. But what I really enjoyed was that this book has Amberly Vail in person working alongside Cain.
This book is the first one that has tyranids as the enemy being fought, although Cain has faced them before. I really enjoyed getting to see the tyranids in action as they are one of my favourite xenos species, I think because they are such a different species to the humans. However there is a lot more going on than just the tyranid invasion and we get a bit more understanding about one of Cain's discoveries in the last book, which nicely links the two stories together.
Once again Mitchell's writing style is great; continuous action broken up by frequent bits of humour and a storyline that keeps you hooked. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
After the last book I was happy to have Cain back with the 597th and seeing a bit more of Kasteen, Brocklaw and even Sulla. But what I really enjoyed was that this book has Amberly Vail in person working alongside Cain.
This book is the first one that has tyranids as the enemy being fought, although Cain has faced them before. I really enjoyed getting to see the tyranids in action as they are one of my favourite xenos species, I think because they are such a different species to the humans. However there is a lot more going on than just the tyranid invasion and we get a bit more understanding about one of Cain's discoveries in the last book, which nicely links the two stories together.
Once again Mitchell's writing style is great; continuous action broken up by frequent bits of humour and a storyline that keeps you hooked. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
February 17, 2020
Cain is deployed on a planet on the cusp of revolt, or so it seems.
It carries on certain plot points from the 4th book and adds a bit of depth to the events in Cain's life. Amber also makes an appearance. And i am unsure why i gave it 3 stars rather than 4, but while the story in this was better than the 4th book, the character gallery was not. The most interesting side character was a random food vendor that got caught up in the story.
Though visually this book would have made an interesting movie. And reading book 6 as well now, story seems so far to be picking up.
It carries on certain plot points from the 4th book and adds a bit of depth to the events in Cain's life. Amber also makes an appearance. And i am unsure why i gave it 3 stars rather than 4, but while the story in this was better than the 4th book, the character gallery was not. The most interesting side character was a random food vendor that got caught up in the story.
Though visually this book would have made an interesting movie. And reading book 6 as well now, story seems so far to be picking up.
August 15, 2022
Mitchell works the formula again. Giving the Sisters of Battle the unsympathetic, unappealing treatment he does here feels counter-productive: there's enough sexism in the fandom and in the setting material already, Sandy, can we do without trashing one of the few shreds of loud female representation the setting has? Full review: https://fakegeekboy.wordpress.com/201...
February 1, 2023
Definitely found this one more interesting than "Death or Glory", which was pretty straightforward.
I do find Mitchell's use of particular idioms/phrases fascinating. There seemed to be fewer chapters that ended "of course, I had no idea just how wrong I was/how bad the day was going to get", but there were more references to his cybernetic fingers.
Overall, this was enjoyable. The Cain books are lighthearted, swashbuckling adventures.
I do find Mitchell's use of particular idioms/phrases fascinating. There seemed to be fewer chapters that ended "of course, I had no idea just how wrong I was/how bad the day was going to get", but there were more references to his cybernetic fingers.
Overall, this was enjoyable. The Cain books are lighthearted, swashbuckling adventures.
July 24, 2023
I picked this up the very moment I finished Death & Glory, the 4th book in the Ciaphas Cain series. While the setting changes, there are plenty of familiar faces and dynamics popping up throughout the story. Those new members to the roster of Cain's acquaintances prove fun and it was very interesting to see the Imperial Guard go up against the forces that Cain finds himself opposing in this story.
December 8, 2024
A splendid Cain story and arguably the strongest of the series.
I'm not usually a fan of 'nid stories as I usually find them as antagonists to be quite one dimensional but all in all there's enough other plates spinning to keep the whole thing fresh.
The tropes are all there. Jurgen still smells, Cain still dislikes Sula etc but I found this story to be a lot richer than other stories and I think part of it is how much backstory we ultimately get. There are a lot of call backs to previous stories and Amberley Vail makes a welcome return as a player as opposed to simply the narrator. Her back and forth with Cain, usually related to quips over something he's written is thoroughly enjoyable and gives the story a different dimension than a standard alien war fic.
I'm not usually a fan of 'nid stories as I usually find them as antagonists to be quite one dimensional but all in all there's enough other plates spinning to keep the whole thing fresh.
The tropes are all there. Jurgen still smells, Cain still dislikes Sula etc but I found this story to be a lot richer than other stories and I think part of it is how much backstory we ultimately get. There are a lot of call backs to previous stories and Amberley Vail makes a welcome return as a player as opposed to simply the narrator. Her back and forth with Cain, usually related to quips over something he's written is thoroughly enjoyable and gives the story a different dimension than a standard alien war fic.
December 18, 2025
We are so back. Book 1 I gave five stars. Book 2-4 I gave four each. I loooove this series so much (absolutely top three 40K series) but I had to differentiate how much Book 1 worked for me compared to the rest. I said in my Book 2 review that the Inquisitor “editor” character not being present in the actual story was a bit of a loss but she’s back in this one and it works soooo well. Amazing series LOVE THIS SHIT
November 7, 2019
I'm a big fan of Sandy Mitchell and Commissar Cain. I'm also a bug player on 40K tabletop, so this book combines two of my favorite things. This has the usual intrigue and action that you've come expect when the Commissar is involved. Throw in Inquisitor Vail and you know Cain and Jurgen are going to be busy.
October 20, 2020
Another fun read. Not as strong as some of the prior stories, but was still a good read, and nice to be back with the Valhallan 597th. We get some nice tie ins to Death or Glory, and some more good Tyranid and Genestealer action as well. Cain in good form as usual, as are the characters we've come to know and love out of the Valhallans. An interesting twist in the story near the end as well.
December 11, 2020
I just LOVE this character! Ciaphas Cain once again delivers the action!
The world he finds himself on is basically half lava and half rock. He has several enemies AND the inquisition mucking about as well. I'm not going to tell you who the players are, but they do keep Ciaphas busy.
This book doesn't move as fast as the previous books, but it is still quite good.
The world he finds himself on is basically half lava and half rock. He has several enemies AND the inquisition mucking about as well. I'm not going to tell you who the players are, but they do keep Ciaphas busy.
This book doesn't move as fast as the previous books, but it is still quite good.
November 13, 2022
Science Fiction Action
This episode is the so far the best in the series.
Since the situations become so dire, Cain's responses to events seem that much more real.
Less reactions to get out of work and more survival instincts.
Plus, the worry of enemies from multiple fronts keeps the story from dragging.
This read was a blast of entertainment and dash of suspense.
This episode is the so far the best in the series.
Since the situations become so dire, Cain's responses to events seem that much more real.
Less reactions to get out of work and more survival instincts.
Plus, the worry of enemies from multiple fronts keeps the story from dragging.
This read was a blast of entertainment and dash of suspense.
January 23, 2025
Nach fünf Bänden ist für mich wahrscheinlich einfach die Luft raus. Es ist noch immer eine unterhaltsame Geschichte, aber irgendwie auch repetitiv. Die Handlungen basieren immer auf dem Schema F und auch wenn Mitchell ein paar gute Frauenfiguren hat, so bin ich doch mit der Zeit des Male Gazes müde geworden. Also erst einmal werde ich diese Reihe nicht aktiv weiter verfolgen.
June 16, 2025
8/10 This is a great book for fans of the series. It fixes all the mistakes from the previous book, going back to all the familiar characters that accompany Cain on his adventures. Lots of things are covered with ties to previous events. Good pacing for known likable characters. Mitchell writes satisfying endings, unlike Abnett who seems to botch them by default.
December 9, 2025
Very fun book with my favorite warhammer character. Loved Amberly’s return in this book and how many factions were involved, as well as the reveal at the end of how everything was connected, felt like a mystery book at times. Also really liked how it answered some questions I had left over from the last book, specifically the one about what happened to those tech priests.
June 4, 2021
By this point in the series, the general structure of the stories is pretty formulaic however things are kept interesting by the characters, the subtle pop culture references sprinkled in and the easy, fast pacing of the stories themselves.
June 20, 2018
I’m getting used to the formula of Britishers in Space. This novel pits the Imperial Guard against Tyranids against Chaos with Inquisition betrayal. It was a fun read.
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