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Warhammer Horror
Deacon of Wounds
Spine-chilling Warhammer Horror novel set in the Warhammer 40,000 Universe.
The planet of Theotokos is dying of thirst. For years, Arch-Deacon Ambrose has done everything in his power to help the people. Charismatic, virtuous, pious, he is as beloved as the corrupt Cardinal Lorenz, who hoards the water reserves beneath the Ecclesiarchal Palace, is feared. When Lorenz dies, Ambrose’s moment has arrived. As good as his intentions are, he is also proud. He will be the saviour Theotokos needs, and bring the relief of water to the suffering. But there is something worse than drought to come. Lorenz’s death unleashes a terrible plague, soon to be known as the Grey Tears. As Ambrose struggles to save Theotokos from the Grey Tears, the unnatural nature of the plague becomes clearer and clearer, and he is driven to more and more extreme measures. He fears malign forces lurk behind the Grey Tears. The truth is worse than his most awful imaginings.
The planet of Theotokos is dying of thirst. For years, Arch-Deacon Ambrose has done everything in his power to help the people. Charismatic, virtuous, pious, he is as beloved as the corrupt Cardinal Lorenz, who hoards the water reserves beneath the Ecclesiarchal Palace, is feared. When Lorenz dies, Ambrose’s moment has arrived. As good as his intentions are, he is also proud. He will be the saviour Theotokos needs, and bring the relief of water to the suffering. But there is something worse than drought to come. Lorenz’s death unleashes a terrible plague, soon to be known as the Grey Tears. As Ambrose struggles to save Theotokos from the Grey Tears, the unnatural nature of the plague becomes clearer and clearer, and he is driven to more and more extreme measures. He fears malign forces lurk behind the Grey Tears. The truth is worse than his most awful imaginings.
158 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 2, 2021
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210 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
March 16, 2021
Some spoilers ahead.... nothing major but... be warned
When I received this novel I thought that this would go on top of my to be read list because I wanted to know what 40K had in store due to covid and Alas I was not dissapointed. This is a 200 page novel (almost a novella) and it deals with the rise and fall of Arch Deacon.
So basically this is set in Theotokos where this world is getting destroyed by famine and lack of rain. It's never really told to us about rivers and so so on but lets think it's doesn't have any. They tell us there is a ocean so, why not use it by means of reduce of salinizing (?). But we are getting out of topic. So this guy is someone who really cares about the people whereas the ecclesiarch in power does not.
After the death of the Cardinal - Ambrose (the arch deacon) takes over and start making changes to help the city but of course things don't go as expected and famine free - comes a plague -Covid Grey Tears.
The second half of this quick novel it deals with Ambrose dealings and how his views change when adversity strikes. There aren't that many characters - to be true the story focus on Ambrose and other appears from time to time but they are really never flesh out. I didn't understood the purpose of the love interest Bethia. Okay so although as a priest he must not commit flesh sin but mental sins it's another story. Would love to see this story more developed but with 200 pages that couldn't happen.
The ending, it was as we all expected unless you know nothing of 40K. When Covid arrived I knew Nurgle had something to do it - and I knew Games Workshop would love to see these stories turn into papers. If the previous novel Sepulturum (Nick Kyme) had some issues with Black Lives Matter and rebel against the police which I hated; this one had to do it covid - or I am mistaking but alas this is the world I am so I associate things in fiction with reality. If this novel had been released 2 years ago, I would think ok - lets sell Plague Marines fiction (although there aren't any here).
Read 100 pages in one day and 102 in the second and that's it. 15€ for a novella lenght novel it's a bit too much. because the chapters started only on the right page and some pages were blank. I hate this kind of thing. Why hardback when others are not? To a collectionist it's boring to have some novels from Warhammer Horror be hardback and others paperback.
Oh well... overall I enjoy it. 5 stars. So far my favorite horror novel, although it's not horror at all. It's not scary - compared with other black library novels. There are more horrific novels from 40K genre out there.
When I received this novel I thought that this would go on top of my to be read list because I wanted to know what 40K had in store due to covid and Alas I was not dissapointed. This is a 200 page novel (almost a novella) and it deals with the rise and fall of Arch Deacon.
So basically this is set in Theotokos where this world is getting destroyed by famine and lack of rain. It's never really told to us about rivers and so so on but lets think it's doesn't have any. They tell us there is a ocean so, why not use it by means of reduce of salinizing (?). But we are getting out of topic. So this guy is someone who really cares about the people whereas the ecclesiarch in power does not.
After the death of the Cardinal - Ambrose (the arch deacon) takes over and start making changes to help the city but of course things don't go as expected and famine free - comes a plague -
The second half of this quick novel it deals with Ambrose dealings and how his views change when adversity strikes. There aren't that many characters - to be true the story focus on Ambrose and other appears from time to time but they are really never flesh out. I didn't understood the purpose of the love interest Bethia. Okay so although as a priest he must not commit flesh sin but mental sins it's another story. Would love to see this story more developed but with 200 pages that couldn't happen.
The ending, it was as we all expected unless you know nothing of 40K. When Covid arrived I knew Nurgle had something to do it - and I knew Games Workshop would love to see these stories turn into papers. If the previous novel Sepulturum (Nick Kyme) had some issues with Black Lives Matter and rebel against the police which I hated; this one had to do it covid - or I am mistaking but alas this is the world I am so I associate things in fiction with reality. If this novel had been released 2 years ago, I would think ok - lets sell Plague Marines fiction (although there aren't any here).
Read 100 pages in one day and 102 in the second and that's it. 15€ for a novella lenght novel it's a bit too much. because the chapters started only on the right page and some pages were blank. I hate this kind of thing. Why hardback when others are not? To a collectionist it's boring to have some novels from Warhammer Horror be hardback and others paperback.
Oh well... overall I enjoy it. 5 stars. So far my favorite horror novel, although it's not horror at all. It's not scary - compared with other black library novels. There are more horrific novels from 40K genre out there.
February 1, 2021
Great writing as always. The characters felt real to me, and i loved the gothic horror aspect. Loved the world building. I do and don't love the fact that the book got right to the point of the story and didn't have fluff that wasn't necessary.
September 1, 2022
The path to the warp is paved with good intentions
Although i could tell where the story was going i still enjoyed this story
We are given a very likeable protagonist in arch deacon Ambrose, a churchman who is very different to many within the Warhammer universe in that he actually cares for the people rather than just spouting zealotry to heighten morale
And that is where the true horror comes from, from the corruption of a good man, seeing him driven deeper and deeper down a dark path into desperation.
The horror is not from the plague or from the ending, it is from the horror that no good deed goes unpunished
Although i could tell where the story was going i still enjoyed this story
We are given a very likeable protagonist in arch deacon Ambrose, a churchman who is very different to many within the Warhammer universe in that he actually cares for the people rather than just spouting zealotry to heighten morale
And that is where the true horror comes from, from the corruption of a good man, seeing him driven deeper and deeper down a dark path into desperation.
The horror is not from the plague or from the ending, it is from the horror that no good deed goes unpunished
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2022
Quite good. A religious leaders decent into desperation and madness. Going from powerless to powerful, only to give into despair. Distubing and dark.
March 15, 2021
Well written, dark, and twisted. Unfortunately, I just felt the story didn’t manage to do anything surprising or unexpected. If anything, the blurb gave away too much of the story before I had even started reading the book itself.
January 26, 2023
I did not expect much, but this was actually pretty good. Reminds me of when we had Covid, back in the good old days.
October 28, 2024
I liked this a lot! A little predictable, but sufficiently horrifying. The audiobook was great!
March 23, 2021
I have been provided with an advance copy of the new Warhammer Horror book The Deacon of Wounds by David Annadale published by Black Library, so here is the honest review I promised in exchange for the book.
So here is an important disclaimer which is always important to put out there first, I am also friends with David on Facebook, but I suspect that’s more about him connecting with fans rather than being a big fan of mine!
I am going to try my best to not let that cloud my judgement in this review, but I accept that subconsciously it might.
What is Warhammer Horror
Warhameer Horror is a new imprint from the publishers of Warhammer fiction, Black Library, which allows authors to publish the more horrific stories set in the Warhammer: Age of Sigmar and Warhammer 40,000 settings. And lets face it these universes are pretty grimdark and teeming with horror and all sorts of nasty and gribbly things.
The Story
This story is set in the Warhammer 40,000 uiniverse, and is about the world of Theotokos, which is a dying planet, ravaged by drought and now faces a terrible plague, called the Grey Tears.
The only man who seems capable of saving this planet is the Arch-Deacon Ambrose, a charasmatic priest of the Adeptus Ministorium who genuinely cares for his world and wants to make the lives of its people better, unlike the worlds ruling Cardinal Lopez who only cares for personal enrichment.
But when Lopez suddenly dies, Ambrose is thrust into the role of leading the planet, but the choices he makes leads him down a dark path.
Lets start out by saying that this story requires you to have a good gag reflex, as there is a lot of nasty and disgusting body horror, it is after all about a plague. And coming out now in the middle of a global pandemic, you do recognise the panic and fear in the cities inhabitants.
And we get a good look at the Ecclesiarchy, which we really haven’t had like this in quite some time, as a big fan of the Sisters of Battle, I feel like I now have a better idea of how the priest that accompany them work.
Conclusion
This book really tells the story of the rise of Ambrose to the highest office on the planet, and his, and subsequently planets fall from grace. Despite being a relatively short story, is one that is very well handled and works well with Davids writing style.
Ambrose journey from a caring and approachable person to someone so very different, happens in a relatively short period, but it happens in such an incremental way that it feels so very natural.
But I am gonna be honest here, the book has an issue that another reviewer on Goodreads, Jenn, summed up very nicely, we have little grasp of the characters other than Ambrose. We seem to have some amazing supporting characters, but none of them are developed well at all. I think if you added another couple of chapters, it would have elevated the book up quite a bit.
A bit of development of the romantic subplot would have gone a long way, the lass he loves simply can’t be that oblivious to his amorous feelings. and as Jenn said, given is importance to the motivations of Ambrose it felt poorly executed.
The horror is disgusting and very revolting, and at points made me physically gag when reading the book, and the conclusion whilst slightly obvious was handled very well, and still was shocking in the way it happened.
Rating this book is difficult for me, I want to give it a 4, but I am varying between 3.5 and 4.5 because I am just unsure how to rate it given the shortcomings.
Its not a bad book at all though and was very enjoyable, its skin-crawlingly good and I think its biggest weakness is just its slightly too short and compromises were made.
So with that in mind, I recommend this book, its deep on lore and an insight to the workings and politics of the Ecclesiarchy as well as a creepy and horrific tale of a planets doom.
The Deacon of Wounds is out now as a hardback, eBook, MP3 audiobook.
So here is an important disclaimer which is always important to put out there first, I am also friends with David on Facebook, but I suspect that’s more about him connecting with fans rather than being a big fan of mine!
I am going to try my best to not let that cloud my judgement in this review, but I accept that subconsciously it might.
What is Warhammer Horror
Warhameer Horror is a new imprint from the publishers of Warhammer fiction, Black Library, which allows authors to publish the more horrific stories set in the Warhammer: Age of Sigmar and Warhammer 40,000 settings. And lets face it these universes are pretty grimdark and teeming with horror and all sorts of nasty and gribbly things.
The Story
This story is set in the Warhammer 40,000 uiniverse, and is about the world of Theotokos, which is a dying planet, ravaged by drought and now faces a terrible plague, called the Grey Tears.
The only man who seems capable of saving this planet is the Arch-Deacon Ambrose, a charasmatic priest of the Adeptus Ministorium who genuinely cares for his world and wants to make the lives of its people better, unlike the worlds ruling Cardinal Lopez who only cares for personal enrichment.
But when Lopez suddenly dies, Ambrose is thrust into the role of leading the planet, but the choices he makes leads him down a dark path.
Lets start out by saying that this story requires you to have a good gag reflex, as there is a lot of nasty and disgusting body horror, it is after all about a plague. And coming out now in the middle of a global pandemic, you do recognise the panic and fear in the cities inhabitants.
And we get a good look at the Ecclesiarchy, which we really haven’t had like this in quite some time, as a big fan of the Sisters of Battle, I feel like I now have a better idea of how the priest that accompany them work.
Conclusion
This book really tells the story of the rise of Ambrose to the highest office on the planet, and his, and subsequently planets fall from grace. Despite being a relatively short story, is one that is very well handled and works well with Davids writing style.
Ambrose journey from a caring and approachable person to someone so very different, happens in a relatively short period, but it happens in such an incremental way that it feels so very natural.
But I am gonna be honest here, the book has an issue that another reviewer on Goodreads, Jenn, summed up very nicely, we have little grasp of the characters other than Ambrose. We seem to have some amazing supporting characters, but none of them are developed well at all. I think if you added another couple of chapters, it would have elevated the book up quite a bit.
A bit of development of the romantic subplot would have gone a long way, the lass he loves simply can’t be that oblivious to his amorous feelings. and as Jenn said, given is importance to the motivations of Ambrose it felt poorly executed.
The horror is disgusting and very revolting, and at points made me physically gag when reading the book, and the conclusion whilst slightly obvious was handled very well, and still was shocking in the way it happened.
Rating this book is difficult for me, I want to give it a 4, but I am varying between 3.5 and 4.5 because I am just unsure how to rate it given the shortcomings.
Its not a bad book at all though and was very enjoyable, its skin-crawlingly good and I think its biggest weakness is just its slightly too short and compromises were made.
So with that in mind, I recommend this book, its deep on lore and an insight to the workings and politics of the Ecclesiarchy as well as a creepy and horrific tale of a planets doom.
The Deacon of Wounds is out now as a hardback, eBook, MP3 audiobook.
March 26, 2021
So, first of all, I got a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for a review.
That being said, I am not quite sure where I stand with this book. The writing was in itself good, pleasantly atmospheric and enjoyable to read, but the overall direction of the plot was predictable. This was a book about someones unwittingly being used by chaos, and it was obvious from the start what the final outcome would be.
As such, one could argue the joy was not in the destination but rather in the road itself, and in this regard I found that the swiftness of the deacons delusion were at odds with the otherwise slowness of events. This wasn't helped by the constant use of introspection, which, while interesting, also contributed to the overall feeling of slowness.
I felt the bit about the undead really didn't add anything to the tale, either. It was mentioned two or three times and dropped. It felt like a very token horror thing to add, except until then there had been no hint whatsoever of the Plague affecting the dead or rising them.
I kind of wish the book hadn't ended on such a cliff hanger, though any further elaboration might have made it less memorable.
All in all, 2.5
That being said, I am not quite sure where I stand with this book. The writing was in itself good, pleasantly atmospheric and enjoyable to read, but the overall direction of the plot was predictable. This was a book about someones unwittingly being used by chaos, and it was obvious from the start what the final outcome would be.
As such, one could argue the joy was not in the destination but rather in the road itself, and in this regard I found that the swiftness of the deacons delusion were at odds with the otherwise slowness of events. This wasn't helped by the constant use of introspection, which, while interesting, also contributed to the overall feeling of slowness.
I felt the bit about the undead really didn't add anything to the tale, either. It was mentioned two or three times and dropped. It felt like a very token horror thing to add, except until then there had been no hint whatsoever of the Plague affecting the dead or rising them.
I kind of wish the book hadn't ended on such a cliff hanger, though any further elaboration might have made it less memorable.
All in all, 2.5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2021
Nice slow burn horror. Kinda obvious ending, but that's because I know the universe well. Still well done.
February 22, 2021
Review on booknest.eu
Even the most faithful can walk in dark places.
Horror has always been a staple feature of the Warhammer 40k universe, integral to its atmosphere and tone. When the Black Library first introduced its new Warhammer Horror franchise a couple of years back, I was immediately intrigued, digesting its audio dramas (highly recommend The Way Out by Rachel Harrison) and novels like Nick Kyme’s Sepulturum and The Oubliette by J.C. Stearns. The recently released novel, The Deacon of Wounds by David Annandale, is perhaps the best entry in the series yet.
His planet dried up and his city infested with a horrific plague known as the Grey Tears, Arch-Deacon Ambrose is all that stands between death and his people. But even the Emperor of Mankind’s most devout subjects get lost in the darkness. I am a sucker for hopeless situations so was immediately drawn into the story, both reading it and listening to it across two nights. The first half of the story is a blend of horror and some decent, albeit standard, political intrigue, while the latter half descends into full on gothic horror as an increasingly fanatical Ambrose is thrown into one terrifying situation after another. Most Warhammer readers will see the big twist coming but it is still well done and makes for compelling reading. There is plenty of body horror too, with a couple of particular scenes that turned my stomach and made my skin crawl. Three words: worms, eyes, singing.
Ambrose is the sole protagonist and very much the heart of the story. Annandale does an excellent job of fleshing out his character. The contrast between Ambrose’s rise to spiritual saviour and descent into fanaticism is executed brilliantly and makes for some very uncomfortable reading as he increasingly crosses the line between hero and villain as the story progresses and the true threat reveals itself.
Unfortunately, the supporting cast gets a lot less page time than I hoped. Cardinal Lorenz and Rosarius make for a sinister duo but spend more time sitting than doing. Cenobite Nossos rarely appears except when absolutely essential to the plot. Enforcer Bonarmo is badass and, although she is very much not the focus of the story, I would have loved if Annandale gave us a couple of chapters from her perspective as Magerit descends into utter chaos. Finally, there is Bethia, perhaps the only real paragon of good in the book. We only get a snippet from her perspective near the beginning, before she is reduced to a supporting character role to Ambrose and spends the entire midsection as pretty much a bystander to events. She only really comes back into the story towards the end and I feel her significance to the plot could have been fleshed out better. Nevertheless, these characters are all fascinating. I just wish they got more page time.
I highly recommend checking out the audible version, which is narrated by Christopher Kent. Not only does his gravelly voice suit Ambrose’s character, perfectly embodying a worn out soul on a world dying of thirst, but also enhances the horror exponentially, making some of the story’s most skin-crawling scenes even more terrifying. I recommend listening to it at night in the utter darkness if you want to get the full horror experience.
Overall, The Deacon of Wounds is a solid instalment in the Warhammer Horror franchise, perhaps the best one yet. Although Warhammer fans will see the twist coming a subsector away, it is nonetheless well done, and newcomers to the franchise will be left absolutely traumatised by what they just experienced. For in this grimdark, every mortal soul is at the mercy of the things that lurk in the dark.
Even the most faithful can walk in dark places.
Horror has always been a staple feature of the Warhammer 40k universe, integral to its atmosphere and tone. When the Black Library first introduced its new Warhammer Horror franchise a couple of years back, I was immediately intrigued, digesting its audio dramas (highly recommend The Way Out by Rachel Harrison) and novels like Nick Kyme’s Sepulturum and The Oubliette by J.C. Stearns. The recently released novel, The Deacon of Wounds by David Annandale, is perhaps the best entry in the series yet.
His planet dried up and his city infested with a horrific plague known as the Grey Tears, Arch-Deacon Ambrose is all that stands between death and his people. But even the Emperor of Mankind’s most devout subjects get lost in the darkness. I am a sucker for hopeless situations so was immediately drawn into the story, both reading it and listening to it across two nights. The first half of the story is a blend of horror and some decent, albeit standard, political intrigue, while the latter half descends into full on gothic horror as an increasingly fanatical Ambrose is thrown into one terrifying situation after another. Most Warhammer readers will see the big twist coming but it is still well done and makes for compelling reading. There is plenty of body horror too, with a couple of particular scenes that turned my stomach and made my skin crawl. Three words: worms, eyes, singing.
Ambrose is the sole protagonist and very much the heart of the story. Annandale does an excellent job of fleshing out his character. The contrast between Ambrose’s rise to spiritual saviour and descent into fanaticism is executed brilliantly and makes for some very uncomfortable reading as he increasingly crosses the line between hero and villain as the story progresses and the true threat reveals itself.
Unfortunately, the supporting cast gets a lot less page time than I hoped. Cardinal Lorenz and Rosarius make for a sinister duo but spend more time sitting than doing. Cenobite Nossos rarely appears except when absolutely essential to the plot. Enforcer Bonarmo is badass and, although she is very much not the focus of the story, I would have loved if Annandale gave us a couple of chapters from her perspective as Magerit descends into utter chaos. Finally, there is Bethia, perhaps the only real paragon of good in the book. We only get a snippet from her perspective near the beginning, before she is reduced to a supporting character role to Ambrose and spends the entire midsection as pretty much a bystander to events. She only really comes back into the story towards the end and I feel her significance to the plot could have been fleshed out better. Nevertheless, these characters are all fascinating. I just wish they got more page time.
I highly recommend checking out the audible version, which is narrated by Christopher Kent. Not only does his gravelly voice suit Ambrose’s character, perfectly embodying a worn out soul on a world dying of thirst, but also enhances the horror exponentially, making some of the story’s most skin-crawling scenes even more terrifying. I recommend listening to it at night in the utter darkness if you want to get the full horror experience.
Overall, The Deacon of Wounds is a solid instalment in the Warhammer Horror franchise, perhaps the best one yet. Although Warhammer fans will see the twist coming a subsector away, it is nonetheless well done, and newcomers to the franchise will be left absolutely traumatised by what they just experienced. For in this grimdark, every mortal soul is at the mercy of the things that lurk in the dark.
March 18, 2021
David Annandale's Deacon of Wound is the latest novel in the Warhammer Horror world. As with every other tale in this collection, be ready for your skin to crawl.
Death is coming for Theotokos. It is a planet plagued by drought, famine, and greed. At this point, all the citizens can hope to do is stave off the worst of it – assuming their leaders and wealthy are willing to work alongside them.
Naturally, they're not. Arch-Deacon Ambrose is one of the few exceptions in that regard. He has been actively fighting for the well-being of the people since the day he started, even when a literal plague runs through the streets.
“A dread worse than the fears of sleep clutched his heart.”
Deacon of Wounds delivered on every promise made. It was exactly the sort of horror novel I was looking for, providing that perfect blend of terror and Warhammer fiction that I so often crave. Then again, I've enjoyed everything I've read that was by David Annandale, so I'm not surprised by that.
The story of Theotokos is not exactly a new one. We've seen corruption and worse before in the 40k world, but it is how Annandale describes it that makes it come to life. Frequently in atrocious fashion.
More than that, I enjoyed reading the novel from Ambrose's perspective. In a way, what happened here was predictable as well, but honestly, that just added to the satisfaction to me—guessing how his story would unravel left me feeling like a cat who found the cream.
“I am going to live to see the death of my world.”
Honestly, I wouldn't have minded seeing more of Theotokos – before the drought and the plagues - that is. It would have increased the sense of loss, I know, but I'm still so curious about it all. Regardless, there was such a human element in this novel. Both the good and the bad. Those that drove the atrocities on and those who did everything in their power to stop it. There's something to take away from that, don't you think?
Thanks to Black Library and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Check out more reviews over at Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks (of Books)
Death is coming for Theotokos. It is a planet plagued by drought, famine, and greed. At this point, all the citizens can hope to do is stave off the worst of it – assuming their leaders and wealthy are willing to work alongside them.
Naturally, they're not. Arch-Deacon Ambrose is one of the few exceptions in that regard. He has been actively fighting for the well-being of the people since the day he started, even when a literal plague runs through the streets.
“A dread worse than the fears of sleep clutched his heart.”
Deacon of Wounds delivered on every promise made. It was exactly the sort of horror novel I was looking for, providing that perfect blend of terror and Warhammer fiction that I so often crave. Then again, I've enjoyed everything I've read that was by David Annandale, so I'm not surprised by that.
The story of Theotokos is not exactly a new one. We've seen corruption and worse before in the 40k world, but it is how Annandale describes it that makes it come to life. Frequently in atrocious fashion.
More than that, I enjoyed reading the novel from Ambrose's perspective. In a way, what happened here was predictable as well, but honestly, that just added to the satisfaction to me—guessing how his story would unravel left me feeling like a cat who found the cream.
“I am going to live to see the death of my world.”
Honestly, I wouldn't have minded seeing more of Theotokos – before the drought and the plagues - that is. It would have increased the sense of loss, I know, but I'm still so curious about it all. Regardless, there was such a human element in this novel. Both the good and the bad. Those that drove the atrocities on and those who did everything in their power to stop it. There's something to take away from that, don't you think?
Thanks to Black Library and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Check out more reviews over at Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks (of Books)
June 4, 2021
Deacon of wounds is an interesting take on the warhammer horror genre. As someone who enjoys religion and theology I always find it intriguing to device into the imperial cult that is the predominant faith in warhammer 40K lore.
Generally I would say that the first half of the book is better than the second half. The slow buildup and the nursery-mystery that we got to follow was something I really liked. I also enjoyed the main Character Ambrose, especially because he is one of the few imperial preachers that actually had some kind of empathy intact in the warhammer 40K lore. David Annandale has a nice language with enough description of things to give us what we need for setting but not bore the reader with vast amounts of details.
What I didn’t like was the very black-and-white identity of the characters. Maybe it was because the book was shorter or maybe that is how Annandale writes but he uses very typical archetypes of litterateur: the self-giving hero, the more than absurdly nice girl the hero is afraid to approach, the insane ruler, the evil snake he has by his side etc. Not very interesting. The main protagonist do make quite the turn in the book but I am still not that convinced of the motives for either the protagonist or the other characters in the book. It felt more like the plot forced the characters to be in a certain way rather than the characters building and cementing the plot.
The second half of the book felt a bit rushed. And with that I also felt that the murder-mystery that was the central plot line in the book was spoiled much earlier for the reader than what it could have been. I knew what would happen when I still had around 60-70 pages left of the book. That is an example of a plot line that is a bit too classical.
The horror in itself was quite enjoyable. I also liked the relationship between the people and the main protagonist and the gradual change from admiration to blind acceptance of the horrors of the imperial creed.
All in all, a book that had some flaws but still was quite enjoyable to read.
Generally I would say that the first half of the book is better than the second half. The slow buildup and the nursery-mystery that we got to follow was something I really liked. I also enjoyed the main Character Ambrose, especially because he is one of the few imperial preachers that actually had some kind of empathy intact in the warhammer 40K lore. David Annandale has a nice language with enough description of things to give us what we need for setting but not bore the reader with vast amounts of details.
What I didn’t like was the very black-and-white identity of the characters. Maybe it was because the book was shorter or maybe that is how Annandale writes but he uses very typical archetypes of litterateur: the self-giving hero, the more than absurdly nice girl the hero is afraid to approach, the insane ruler, the evil snake he has by his side etc. Not very interesting. The main protagonist do make quite the turn in the book but I am still not that convinced of the motives for either the protagonist or the other characters in the book. It felt more like the plot forced the characters to be in a certain way rather than the characters building and cementing the plot.
The second half of the book felt a bit rushed. And with that I also felt that the murder-mystery that was the central plot line in the book was spoiled much earlier for the reader than what it could have been. I knew what would happen when I still had around 60-70 pages left of the book. That is an example of a plot line that is a bit too classical.
The horror in itself was quite enjoyable. I also liked the relationship between the people and the main protagonist and the gradual change from admiration to blind acceptance of the horrors of the imperial creed.
All in all, a book that had some flaws but still was quite enjoyable to read.
May 2, 2021
Thank you Black Library and NetGalley for providing an ebook of this for a review. I am a big fan of Black Library fiction and already had purchased this book but was glad to move it up on my reading list.
Deacon of Wounds was a compelling read and also a very quick one for me. I read it in one sitting as I couldn't find a place to stop. The overall sense of dread just kept me uneasy thoughout and I needed to finish.
The central theme of separating faith from heresy played out well in the character of Arch Deacon Ambrose. He was zealous in his faith but didn't realize that one's reliance on faith can lead to disaster at some point.
Long time readers of Warhammer 40K fiction could probably determine where this story was going but the travel along the spiraling descent into opening oneself to chaos was expertly told.
I found myself despondent over Ambrose's actions as I knew what he wanted to do but also knew his path could only lead to one outcome.
Overall, the gothic horror really worked in this as it has in several of the Warhammer Horror line. This was a fantastic tale.
Deacon of Wounds was a compelling read and also a very quick one for me. I read it in one sitting as I couldn't find a place to stop. The overall sense of dread just kept me uneasy thoughout and I needed to finish.
The central theme of separating faith from heresy played out well in the character of Arch Deacon Ambrose. He was zealous in his faith but didn't realize that one's reliance on faith can lead to disaster at some point.
Long time readers of Warhammer 40K fiction could probably determine where this story was going but the travel along the spiraling descent into opening oneself to chaos was expertly told.
I found myself despondent over Ambrose's actions as I knew what he wanted to do but also knew his path could only lead to one outcome.
Overall, the gothic horror really worked in this as it has in several of the Warhammer Horror line. This was a fantastic tale.
May 28, 2021
I listened to this as an audiobook.
This was in the middle for me. There was some excellent world building in the beginning and the premise was quite promising. A world was dying of thirst, the noble were unwilling to dispense their hoard of water, and Ambrose, our protagonist, was trying to convince them to help.
Its a study of Machiavellian motivation. What started as righteous ends far from it. This was the strongest part of the story, watching our main character make harder and harder decisions.
I cannot remember the name of the priest Ambrose had conflict with. It seemed he would become a scapegoat, and I remember wishing more had been done with that. I also didn't really find the horror until the end, when Ambrose did the rite. Some tense scenes before that, and the disease certainly lent to the atmosphere, but still, not something I'd call horror. Relative, I guess.
I like Annandale's writing style. He has a knack for disturbing images, something I first experienced in Neferata: The Dominion of Bones. I look forward to more of his work.
This was in the middle for me. There was some excellent world building in the beginning and the premise was quite promising. A world was dying of thirst, the noble were unwilling to dispense their hoard of water, and Ambrose, our protagonist, was trying to convince them to help.
Its a study of Machiavellian motivation. What started as righteous ends far from it. This was the strongest part of the story, watching our main character make harder and harder decisions.
I cannot remember the name of the priest Ambrose had conflict with. It seemed he would become a scapegoat, and I remember wishing more had been done with that. I also didn't really find the horror until the end, when Ambrose did the rite. Some tense scenes before that, and the disease certainly lent to the atmosphere, but still, not something I'd call horror. Relative, I guess.
I like Annandale's writing style. He has a knack for disturbing images, something I first experienced in Neferata: The Dominion of Bones. I look forward to more of his work.
April 1, 2021
I will say I am not familiar with former related work, so it took a while for me to slip easily into the world and it’ lore. It can be quite overwhelming in the beginning. This can be a deterrent for new readers, but I do believe it pulls off what it is trying to accomplish. The author is obviously passionate about the book and it’s backstory, it feels like it has culture and soul. I always love a good fall from grace, rather than a stereotypical heroic save.
I’m not easily rattled, so the horror didn’t bother me - but I would warn reader’s against body horror! I would say the biggest drawback is the romantic interest, it seemed underdeveloped and forced. But, the world feels grey and depressive - like you can’t escape it, and it’s the books greatest strength. You know the end, it’s more about how it comes about. Death hangs above everyone, inevitable and the main character only seeks to watch it happen.
I’m not easily rattled, so the horror didn’t bother me - but I would warn reader’s against body horror! I would say the biggest drawback is the romantic interest, it seemed underdeveloped and forced. But, the world feels grey and depressive - like you can’t escape it, and it’s the books greatest strength. You know the end, it’s more about how it comes about. Death hangs above everyone, inevitable and the main character only seeks to watch it happen.
February 7, 2021
A strong contender for the best novel in the Warhammer Horror line, this is a short but perfectly formed story.
Obviously, listening to it in 2021 the rampant contagion and venal authorities only concerned with feathering their own nests in the face of imminent environmental catastrophe hit harder than most books set in the year 40,000.
The use of a high-ranking member of the Ecilisarchy rather than the planetary governor that seems de rigour for this kind of story is an inspired touch; as readers we know the actual power that religious belief can manifest as in 40k, so lapses into monomania are perhaps perfectly reasonable as one’s reality rapidly unfurls.
Given the title and the synopsis, anyone with a reasonable understanding of the setting will be able to predict where the story goes, but it’s grim inevitably and the hubris displayed on the way is incredibly satisfying.
Obviously, listening to it in 2021 the rampant contagion and venal authorities only concerned with feathering their own nests in the face of imminent environmental catastrophe hit harder than most books set in the year 40,000.
The use of a high-ranking member of the Ecilisarchy rather than the planetary governor that seems de rigour for this kind of story is an inspired touch; as readers we know the actual power that religious belief can manifest as in 40k, so lapses into monomania are perhaps perfectly reasonable as one’s reality rapidly unfurls.
Given the title and the synopsis, anyone with a reasonable understanding of the setting will be able to predict where the story goes, but it’s grim inevitably and the hubris displayed on the way is incredibly satisfying.
February 18, 2021
This is my first BL book, though I am a big fan of Annandale from his work with Aconyte. Wasn’t sure what to expect from a horror book in the Warhammer world but as I know Annandale is a horror-nerd I knew it would be good. I am also a big fan of the miniatures games from GW so know the world well.
The tale is awfully creepy but in the best way. It’s the kind of book you want to stay up reading, but at the same time you kinda wanna put down as your skin begins to crawl and you start staring at the bedroom door wondering if that was a buzz of a fly you just heard. Annanndale gets into your head with this one and you’ll end up devouring it before it devours you.
Great characters that I was never really sure if I was supposed to love or hate, that make you question who the corrupt ones really are.
The tale is awfully creepy but in the best way. It’s the kind of book you want to stay up reading, but at the same time you kinda wanna put down as your skin begins to crawl and you start staring at the bedroom door wondering if that was a buzz of a fly you just heard. Annanndale gets into your head with this one and you’ll end up devouring it before it devours you.
Great characters that I was never really sure if I was supposed to love or hate, that make you question who the corrupt ones really are.
October 6, 2021
Not a bland horror novel by any means.
I really enjoyed The Deacon of Wounds, the author really has a way with writing and imagination. It was simple to follow and at times it did make me cringe. 😖 I felt as though this is a horror novel of how one can betray their own mind with the belief of what they are doing is "in the right". And how mentally this challenges one to question themself on if that is in fact the right decision to be making. Whether it's decided from religion, upbringing, or outer surroundings man's madness is based upon this continuous loop of of repeated errors.
It is up for interpretation and the readers enjoyment.
I really enjoyed The Deacon of Wounds, the author really has a way with writing and imagination. It was simple to follow and at times it did make me cringe. 😖 I felt as though this is a horror novel of how one can betray their own mind with the belief of what they are doing is "in the right". And how mentally this challenges one to question themself on if that is in fact the right decision to be making. Whether it's decided from religion, upbringing, or outer surroundings man's madness is based upon this continuous loop of of repeated errors.
It is up for interpretation and the readers enjoyment.
April 30, 2021
I'm comfortable saying this is the worst bit of Warhammer fiction I've ever read. It should have been at most a quarter of the length and it still probably would have been boring and predictable. There's enough plot for a short story padded out to a (fortunately) short novel which continues to bore at every endless, predictable turn. Not that 40k stories are exactly known for their brilliant plot twists, but at least they usually pad with action not just more plodding misery. I haven't come closer to dropping a story in the middle since grade school.
February 28, 2021
I received an eARC from Black Library, via Netgalley.
Rated 3.5/5
A quick read, set in the 40k universe. On a dying planet, Arch-Deacon Ambrose is struggling to keep people from completely giving in to despair, while at the same time having to find ways to fight back a strange plague that breaks out in the possibly last living settlement on Theotokos.
While I am far more of a Warhammer Fantasy nerd, the horror fiction from Black Library really hits the spot. If you're not that versed in the 40k universe, you can still read and enjoy this short novel. If you know absolutely nothing, you'll probably get hung up on names and other stuff that gets thrown around, because the reader is expected to have a basic knowledge and understanding of the world going into the book. So don't expect world-building.
All in all, an enjoyable read that had no real surprises, but more than made up for it with the lyrical writing and the generally gritty, grim dark depictions of life on a world that it seems the Emperor forgot.
Rated 3.5/5
A quick read, set in the 40k universe. On a dying planet, Arch-Deacon Ambrose is struggling to keep people from completely giving in to despair, while at the same time having to find ways to fight back a strange plague that breaks out in the possibly last living settlement on Theotokos.
While I am far more of a Warhammer Fantasy nerd, the horror fiction from Black Library really hits the spot. If you're not that versed in the 40k universe, you can still read and enjoy this short novel. If you know absolutely nothing, you'll probably get hung up on names and other stuff that gets thrown around, because the reader is expected to have a basic knowledge and understanding of the world going into the book. So don't expect world-building.
All in all, an enjoyable read that had no real surprises, but more than made up for it with the lyrical writing and the generally gritty, grim dark depictions of life on a world that it seems the Emperor forgot.
February 23, 2021
The Deacon of Wounds is a bit typical regarding the kind of story it tells, but it's filled with excellent descriptions of the horrific and is permeated with a foreboding that builds well to the conclusion. It's possible this story would have benefited from a bit more build up or sub-plots to make the ending less predictable, but it's also so well paced as it that adding more plots or attempts to deflect from the ending could have caused the story to stumble.
November 1, 2021
Black Library keeps knocking it out of the park with their newest imprint - Warhammer Horror is definitely a force to be reckoned with. David Annandale's Deacon of Wounds is everything you would want from a WH40k novel mixed with some of the best psychological horror written to date. The reader will gleefully follow the protagonist's slow descent into understanding and terror through the clever writing and clean worldbuilding. Definitely a great one.
October 5, 2022
I do really like this story. I think it's well paced and good world building. My only real issue, especially given that it does well until this point, the ending, like literally the last chapter, isn't well set up. All of a sudden he's doing this outlandish thing and there's no real explanation as to why. And while it is a very dramatic and realistic ending, there's a leap there that isn't well founded. Still, I did really like it.
October 19, 2023
There were bits of this that were fairly gripping, I enjoyed the slow decline to megalomaniacal madness and bits of the prose were fairly good actually. For someone new to the war hammer horror franchise it was fairly confusing, and this gave the book the overall impression of a strange bad dream that disturbs without making any sort of sense. Thats okay! There’s a welcome place in horror for that, I do wish that the ending tied the whole thing together a bit better.
October 18, 2024
A very enjoyable read though the whole story feels a little loaded at the end, a good climax that you’ve probably already figured out within the first chapter. The tension and horror of this book is pretty unique, I went in expecting typical Nurgle body horror and graphic descriptions of disgusting diseases, there is certainly quite a bit of it at the end but the primary horror of this read is a desperate city & priest who’s faith in the emperor is eroded and eventually taken advantage of.
October 22, 2025
Great read - my favourite Warhammer Horror book yet! Though only a novella, this has great pacing and a great gradual character descent. If you're familiar with the universe, you can guess early on where it's headed but that doesn't make it any less interesting to work your way through - especially since it's focused on humans, priests, and there are NO Space Marines or supernatural elements to be found... except for the obvious.
February 10, 2021
The Deacon Of wounds
This is a war hammer 40k novel which for me is new to read. Is a book about power and its misuse about religion which is controlled by fear and weak people. Terrific writing. Ambrose had to accept what is to be done and follow Bethia lead. The fight was only going to become harder. Awating a new cardinal. A well written good read for any warhammer fan.
This is a war hammer 40k novel which for me is new to read. Is a book about power and its misuse about religion which is controlled by fear and weak people. Terrific writing. Ambrose had to accept what is to be done and follow Bethia lead. The fight was only going to become harder. Awating a new cardinal. A well written good read for any warhammer fan.
February 23, 2024
A very enjoyable book showing the horrors that can come to pass when being placed in high authority when all hell is breaking loose. The characters had plenty of development and while the ending was predictable around 3/4 of the way in, I still enjoyed it immensely. The only issue I found was certain moments felt that they could have been elaborated on more.
October 7, 2022
By and large excellent Warhammer 40,000 horror story, its main fault being that it doesn't quite give itself space to establish much distinctive about the particular planet the story takes place on. Full review: https://fakegeekboy.wordpress.com/202...
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