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The Horus Heresy
Lupercal’s War: A Horus Heresy Anthology
A Horus Heresy Anthology
The Horus Heresy is an epic conflict spanning hundreds of worlds and thousands of battles, laced with countless tales of heroism and valour, betrayal and villainy. This anthology collects some of the most memorable, featuring every one of the Loyalist and Traitor Legions.
READ IT BECAUSE
Whether you're a veteran Legionary or exploring the grim setting of the Horus Heresy for the first time, this handpicked collection of 21 existing short stories features gripping tales for each of the Loyalist and Traitor Legions that waged wars of betrayal and destruction on an immeasurable scale.
DESCRIPTION
Never has the Imperium known a weapon as deadly as the massed might of a Space Marine Legion. Together, these mighty warriors form an unbreakable spear at the forefront of the Great Crusade. Together, they quest to reclaim humanity's birthright – its dominion over the stars. Each Legion is led by a legendary primarch, and the greatest among them is Horus Lupercal, Warmaster of the Imperium. Yet at the height of his power, this beloved son betrayed his oaths, taking half his brothers with him into damnation.
Condemned to an eternity of war, the galaxy burns as loyal Space Marine Legions and their traitorous kin tear apart everything they bled to build. This anthology collects over 20 existing stories from a variety of authors, featuring every one of the Space Marine Legions and ranging from the Unification Wars to the most brutal days of the Age of Darkness.
CONTENTS
– The Last Church by Graham McNeill
– Savage Weapons by Aaron Dembski-Bowden
– Imperfect by Nick Kyme
– The Iron Within by Rob Sanders
– Black Oculus by John French
– Brotherhood of the Moon by Chris Wraight
– Bjorn: Lone Wolf by Chris Wraight
– Bloodhowl by Chris Forrester
– Champion of Oaths by John French
– Child of Night by John French
– Lost Sons by James Swallow
– Immortal Duty by Nick Kyme
– After Desh’ea by Matthew Farrer
– The Laurel of Defiance Guy Haley
– Daemonology by Chris Wraight
– Rebirth by Chris Wraight
– Little Horus by Dan Abnett
– Child of Chaos by Chris Wraight
– Artefacts by Nick Kyme
– The Grey Raven by Gav Thorpe
– Liar’s Due by James Swallow
The Horus Heresy is an epic conflict spanning hundreds of worlds and thousands of battles, laced with countless tales of heroism and valour, betrayal and villainy. This anthology collects some of the most memorable, featuring every one of the Loyalist and Traitor Legions.
READ IT BECAUSE
Whether you're a veteran Legionary or exploring the grim setting of the Horus Heresy for the first time, this handpicked collection of 21 existing short stories features gripping tales for each of the Loyalist and Traitor Legions that waged wars of betrayal and destruction on an immeasurable scale.
DESCRIPTION
Never has the Imperium known a weapon as deadly as the massed might of a Space Marine Legion. Together, these mighty warriors form an unbreakable spear at the forefront of the Great Crusade. Together, they quest to reclaim humanity's birthright – its dominion over the stars. Each Legion is led by a legendary primarch, and the greatest among them is Horus Lupercal, Warmaster of the Imperium. Yet at the height of his power, this beloved son betrayed his oaths, taking half his brothers with him into damnation.
Condemned to an eternity of war, the galaxy burns as loyal Space Marine Legions and their traitorous kin tear apart everything they bled to build. This anthology collects over 20 existing stories from a variety of authors, featuring every one of the Space Marine Legions and ranging from the Unification Wars to the most brutal days of the Age of Darkness.
CONTENTS
– The Last Church by Graham McNeill
– Savage Weapons by Aaron Dembski-Bowden
– Imperfect by Nick Kyme
– The Iron Within by Rob Sanders
– Black Oculus by John French
– Brotherhood of the Moon by Chris Wraight
– Bjorn: Lone Wolf by Chris Wraight
– Bloodhowl by Chris Forrester
– Champion of Oaths by John French
– Child of Night by John French
– Lost Sons by James Swallow
– Immortal Duty by Nick Kyme
– After Desh’ea by Matthew Farrer
– The Laurel of Defiance Guy Haley
– Daemonology by Chris Wraight
– Rebirth by Chris Wraight
– Little Horus by Dan Abnett
– Child of Chaos by Chris Wraight
– Artefacts by Nick Kyme
– The Grey Raven by Gav Thorpe
– Liar’s Due by James Swallow
624 pages, Paperback
First published June 18, 2022
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119 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
May 21, 2024
May 2024 Read using the Horus Heresy Omnibus Project Reading Order (https://www.heresyomnibus.com) as part of my Oath of Moment to complete the Horus Heresy series and extras - Now in Immaterium of everything outside the Horus Heresy Omnibus Project, before moving on to the last Omnibus XXI The Siege of Terra.
With Child of Chaos this is finished!
Not counting this in my records as it's a collection of things in other anthologies.
I've reviewed everything in here on here and the scores are very different than those of my initial review below.
These big collections truly are incredible and ridiculous value. The quality vaccilates, as it does with all anthologies, but there's just so much great stuff.
I was ridiculously harshast time and taking a star off because this being advertised as a place to start seems wild. There are a bunch of things in here that would make no sense and potentially spoil things without context, but it's truly a discount treasure trove.
Through the Horus Heresy Omnibus Project and my own additions, I have currently read* all 54 Horus Heresy main series novels (+1 repeat), all 25 novellas (+2 repeats), as well as the Macragge's Honour graphic novel, all 17 Primarchs novels, 3 Characters novels, and 144 short stories/ audio dramas across the Horus Heresy (inc. 10+ repeats). Plus, 2 Warhammer 40K further reading novels and 1 short story...this run, as well as writing 1 short story myself.
I couldn't be more appreciative of the phenomenal work of the Horus Heresy Omnibus Project, which has made this ridiculous endeavour all the better and has inspired me to create and collate a collection of Horus Heresy and Warhammer 40,000 documents and checklists (http://tiny.cc/im00yz). There are now too many items to list here, but there is a contents and explainer document here (http://tiny.cc/nj00yz).
*My tracking consistently proves shoddy, but I'm doing my best
***
Initial Review: 3/5
This is a huge and varied collection in every way. I have previously reviewed each story in here, so I will each one a comment based on this being a 'Start Here' collection and then talk about just how ridiculous some of the choices are and the utterly ludicrous idea that this collection would be a good place for someone unfamiliar and/ or starting to get into the Horus Heresy series.
"The Last Church" by Graham McNeill - 3/5 Chronologically very early in the timeline, but absolutely not an accurate or helpful first impression.
"Savage Weapons" by Aaron Dembski-Bowden 2/5 Why are we introducing a secondary and very dull theatre of war as the first impression of the Heresy?
"Imperfect" by Nick Kyme - 3/5 This is the way you introduce the Irons Hands. So much needed backstory to appreciate or even understand this.
"The Iron Within" by Rob Sanders - 4/5 Interesting choice to introduce Iron Warriors and Shattered Legions this way.
"Black Oculus" by John French - 4/5 What a pair of ridiculous ways to introduce Iron Warriors and Perturabo on the bounce, as well as Navigators.
"Brotherhood of the Moon" by Chris Wraight - 2/5 This barely makes sense regardless of your experience.
"Bjorn: Lone Wolf" by Chris Wraight - 4/5 Contained enough story. Kinda works as an introduction to the Space Wolves.
"Bloodhowl" by Chris Forrester - 3/5 Much worse introduction to Space Wolves with a lot of context needed.
" of Oaths" by John French - 3/5 Kinda works as an introduction to the Imperial Fists.
"Child of Night" by John French - 4/5 This actually works as more information on the Night Lords.
"Lost Sons" by James Swallow - 3/5 So much backstory about the Blood Angels and Knights Errant needed.
"Immortal Duty" by Nick Kyme - 4/5 An interesting perspective on the Iron Hands. Does need Isstvan context.
"After Desh'ea" by Matthew Farrer - 5+++/5 Perfect introduction to Angron and Khârn.
"The Laurel of Defiance" by Guy Haley - 1/5 Kinda works as an introduction to the Ultramarines, but with a not like other girls protagonist.
"Daemonology" by Chris Wraight - 4/5 Decent introduction to Mortarion
"Rebirth" by Chris Wraight - 3/5 You absolutely red to know about Prospero and be more familiar with Khârn.
"Little Horus" by Dan Abnett - 5+/5 Decent introduction to the Sons of Horus, but absolutely relies on the whole opening trilogy.
"Child of Chaos" by Chris Wraight - 3/5 Some kind of introduction to Erebus, but lacks context.
"Artefacts" by Nick Kyme - 3/5 Awful introduction to Vulkan and the Salamanders
"The Grey Raven" by Gav Thorpe - 3/5 This is literally the end of an ongoing story and needs context.
"Liar's Due" by James Swallow - 2/5 Works as a story on its own, but having Alpha Legion context would be helpful.
Average score: 3/5
Woefully inappropriately advertised -1 (2/5)
Just how brilliant After Desh'ea and Little Horus are +1 (3/5)
There's something for everyone here, but if you were starting here I don't know how you would have a clue what was going on. Otherwise, it's big ole decent collection with some real highs and lows, and a lot of decent enough. As something you can get for one credit on Audible? An absolute steal!
With Child of Chaos this is finished!
Not counting this in my records as it's a collection of things in other anthologies.
I've reviewed everything in here on here and the scores are very different than those of my initial review below.
These big collections truly are incredible and ridiculous value. The quality vaccilates, as it does with all anthologies, but there's just so much great stuff.
I was ridiculously harshast time and taking a star off because this being advertised as a place to start seems wild. There are a bunch of things in here that would make no sense and potentially spoil things without context, but it's truly a discount treasure trove.
Through the Horus Heresy Omnibus Project and my own additions, I have currently read* all 54 Horus Heresy main series novels (+1 repeat), all 25 novellas (+2 repeats), as well as the Macragge's Honour graphic novel, all 17 Primarchs novels, 3 Characters novels, and 144 short stories/ audio dramas across the Horus Heresy (inc. 10+ repeats). Plus, 2 Warhammer 40K further reading novels and 1 short story...this run, as well as writing 1 short story myself.
I couldn't be more appreciative of the phenomenal work of the Horus Heresy Omnibus Project, which has made this ridiculous endeavour all the better and has inspired me to create and collate a collection of Horus Heresy and Warhammer 40,000 documents and checklists (http://tiny.cc/im00yz). There are now too many items to list here, but there is a contents and explainer document here (http://tiny.cc/nj00yz).
*My tracking consistently proves shoddy, but I'm doing my best
***
Initial Review: 3/5
This is a huge and varied collection in every way. I have previously reviewed each story in here, so I will each one a comment based on this being a 'Start Here' collection and then talk about just how ridiculous some of the choices are and the utterly ludicrous idea that this collection would be a good place for someone unfamiliar and/ or starting to get into the Horus Heresy series.
"The Last Church" by Graham McNeill - 3/5 Chronologically very early in the timeline, but absolutely not an accurate or helpful first impression.
"Savage Weapons" by Aaron Dembski-Bowden 2/5 Why are we introducing a secondary and very dull theatre of war as the first impression of the Heresy?
"Imperfect" by Nick Kyme - 3/5 This is the way you introduce the Irons Hands. So much needed backstory to appreciate or even understand this.
"The Iron Within" by Rob Sanders - 4/5 Interesting choice to introduce Iron Warriors and Shattered Legions this way.
"Black Oculus" by John French - 4/5 What a pair of ridiculous ways to introduce Iron Warriors and Perturabo on the bounce, as well as Navigators.
"Brotherhood of the Moon" by Chris Wraight - 2/5 This barely makes sense regardless of your experience.
"Bjorn: Lone Wolf" by Chris Wraight - 4/5 Contained enough story. Kinda works as an introduction to the Space Wolves.
"Bloodhowl" by Chris Forrester - 3/5 Much worse introduction to Space Wolves with a lot of context needed.
" of Oaths" by John French - 3/5 Kinda works as an introduction to the Imperial Fists.
"Child of Night" by John French - 4/5 This actually works as more information on the Night Lords.
"Lost Sons" by James Swallow - 3/5 So much backstory about the Blood Angels and Knights Errant needed.
"Immortal Duty" by Nick Kyme - 4/5 An interesting perspective on the Iron Hands. Does need Isstvan context.
"After Desh'ea" by Matthew Farrer - 5+++/5 Perfect introduction to Angron and Khârn.
"The Laurel of Defiance" by Guy Haley - 1/5 Kinda works as an introduction to the Ultramarines, but with a not like other girls protagonist.
"Daemonology" by Chris Wraight - 4/5 Decent introduction to Mortarion
"Rebirth" by Chris Wraight - 3/5 You absolutely red to know about Prospero and be more familiar with Khârn.
"Little Horus" by Dan Abnett - 5+/5 Decent introduction to the Sons of Horus, but absolutely relies on the whole opening trilogy.
"Child of Chaos" by Chris Wraight - 3/5 Some kind of introduction to Erebus, but lacks context.
"Artefacts" by Nick Kyme - 3/5 Awful introduction to Vulkan and the Salamanders
"The Grey Raven" by Gav Thorpe - 3/5 This is literally the end of an ongoing story and needs context.
"Liar's Due" by James Swallow - 2/5 Works as a story on its own, but having Alpha Legion context would be helpful.
Average score: 3/5
Woefully inappropriately advertised -1 (2/5)
Just how brilliant After Desh'ea and Little Horus are +1 (3/5)
There's something for everyone here, but if you were starting here I don't know how you would have a clue what was going on. Otherwise, it's big ole decent collection with some real highs and lows, and a lot of decent enough. As something you can get for one credit on Audible? An absolute steal!
August 2, 2022
The rating is more specifically about Lupercal's War in its role as a "Start Here" anthology - it's anything but. The stories often do squat to introduce the factions - and each Legion gets something here, so they'd better.
A bunch of times this is down to a limited range of viable options when choosing the stories, but more often than not, there would have been better picks available.
Generally, the stories tie too hard into the novels to stand on their own merits. A lot of them are plain and simply don't work without the context of their respective Legion-arcs.
Imperfect, for instance, is a niche story in and of itself - easily ignored in the overall narrative - but for somebody new to the fiction, it simply won't do anything without its dependencies. There'd have been better picks for the Emperor's Children.
Black Oculus, meanwhile, is a tiny short that even when it released was more of a throwaway than something essential - and it makes even less sense considering it is a bridge between two major Iron Warriors showings, while saying very little about them by itself.
Bloodhowl is one of only three stories not widely available in print anthologies aside from this one, and while I'm glad that it's in print now, it, too, is a late-Heresy offshoot from an arc that's spanned multiple novels. Heck, it's actually tying into at least two narrative arcs!
Child of Night being the Night Lords story, too, makes very little sense - it barely is, honestly. It's about an exile who joins a different host altogether. It says very little about the Night Lords, and this is a faction that doesn't lack in better options.
I could go on about almost every story included here, but you get my point.
There are actually very few stories that I'd ever recommend to a newcomer to Horus Heresy fiction, even if they specifically wanted to start with a particular Legion. The quality across the shorts is also rather uneven; it's not an anthology I would've put together, having read all but the Primarchs anthologies to date.
I'm afraid it'll be doing the publisher a disservice.
A bunch of times this is down to a limited range of viable options when choosing the stories, but more often than not, there would have been better picks available.
Generally, the stories tie too hard into the novels to stand on their own merits. A lot of them are plain and simply don't work without the context of their respective Legion-arcs.
Imperfect, for instance, is a niche story in and of itself - easily ignored in the overall narrative - but for somebody new to the fiction, it simply won't do anything without its dependencies. There'd have been better picks for the Emperor's Children.
Black Oculus, meanwhile, is a tiny short that even when it released was more of a throwaway than something essential - and it makes even less sense considering it is a bridge between two major Iron Warriors showings, while saying very little about them by itself.
Bloodhowl is one of only three stories not widely available in print anthologies aside from this one, and while I'm glad that it's in print now, it, too, is a late-Heresy offshoot from an arc that's spanned multiple novels. Heck, it's actually tying into at least two narrative arcs!
Child of Night being the Night Lords story, too, makes very little sense - it barely is, honestly. It's about an exile who joins a different host altogether. It says very little about the Night Lords, and this is a faction that doesn't lack in better options.
I could go on about almost every story included here, but you get my point.
There are actually very few stories that I'd ever recommend to a newcomer to Horus Heresy fiction, even if they specifically wanted to start with a particular Legion. The quality across the shorts is also rather uneven; it's not an anthology I would've put together, having read all but the Primarchs anthologies to date.
I'm afraid it'll be doing the publisher a disservice.
June 24, 2022
4.5 / 5
A great entry to Horus Heresy, for newcomers. It covers all the legions and the emperor with an eclectic selection of stories. Most are reprints from the anthologies in the 54-books-long series, with the exception of three. "Bloodhowl", "Champion of Oaths" and "Child of Chaos", published in a Black Library limited event anthology.
A great entry to Horus Heresy, for newcomers. It covers all the legions and the emperor with an eclectic selection of stories. Most are reprints from the anthologies in the 54-books-long series, with the exception of three. "Bloodhowl", "Champion of Oaths" and "Child of Chaos", published in a Black Library limited event anthology.
September 17, 2025
The Last Church by Graham McNeill *****
A more philosophical take on Warhammer, as the old priest of the last church on Terra is confronted by the Emperor of Mankind at the end of the Unification Wars. I really enjoyed this story as a way of demonstrating the Emperor's arrogance and disdain for element of humanity. He has lived so long and seen so much he seems jaded. As much as he wishes to elevate and uplift humanity, there seems to be a disgust directed at the human experience that paints the Emperor as a complex character.
Savage Weapons by Aaron Dembski-Bowden *****
The Lion is a hunter, a monster killer, a weapon forged by the Emperor. His brother Curze a mad butcher, a torturer, a sadist. In the void they have played a dark game of cat and mouse, slaughtering worlds and burning ships in the darkness of space. Now it will come to an end, in a climatic confrontation.
ADB feels his story with such character and charisma that it is impossible to not get sucked in. The story oozes drama and was a strong conclusion to the book. I would love to see him write the Dark Angels again.
Imperfect by Nick Kyme *****
A game of regicide between two brothers, the Phoenician and the Gorgon.
This story did more to invest me in Ferrus and Fulgrim than almost any other story in the Heresy. Their flaws and strengths fully on display, as well as their close bond. No two brothers shared more love for one another among the Primarchs Ferrus and Fulgrim. Tragic but also a lot of fun.
The Iron Within by Rob Sanders *****
The passion and intensity of the Heresy series comes from betrayal, of the hatred of one brother for another. Betrayal after all never comes from an enemy.
This is a follow up to the Primarch Novel "Pertuabo: The Hammer of Olympia" as Barbarus Dantioch, loyal to the Empire, must take up arms against his brothers. The action is intense and exciting, the drama compelling, fantastic story.
Barbarus Dantioch returns in "The Unremembered Empire" and "The Heart of the Pharos" and "Pharos".
Black Oculus by John French ****
A creepy little tale told in the second person, as a Navigator tells the story to the reader. Stuck in the Eye of Terror after the events of “Angel Exterminatus”, the Iron Warriors must travel through the Warp. But to do so requires the skills of the Navigators, and what their third eyes will see is beyond human comprehension. A very intimate and unsettling story.
Brotherhood of the Moon by Chris Wraight *****
A member of the White Scars is interrogated by his brothers over his allegiance. The White Scars were ever independent, warriors on their own path. It is not strange that with the schism of the Imperium, there would be various views of the path to take. I enjoyed the way Wraight drew out this story, of White Scar battling alongside the Luna Wolves, the initiation into the Lodge.
It adds to the story of Torghun Khan that began in “Brotherhood of the Storm”.
Bjorn: Lone Wolf by Chris Wraight ****
A basic enough story that is well-executed. Bjorn finally gets his revenge on the Daemon that slew his packmates. His long solitude can finally come to an end. Exciting visceral action that also adds some depth to a pre-established important character.
Bloodhowl by Chris Forrester ****
Russ has called for all his wayward sons to stand by him, in preparation for one final assault of the traitors. But there are some who will not heed the call.
I thought this story did a good job of looking at the effect Propsero had on the Vlkya Fenryka. Where once they obeyed every order without question, now they wonder about the justification of each order. They seek to be more than the Emperor’s executioners, instead to be the protectors of the Emperor’s Realm.
Champion of Oaths by John French *****
The story cuts back and forth, following Sigismund as he fights to protect other children in a refugee camp on Terra, to Sigismund dueling his brother Templars to take on the role of Champion of Oaths.
Sigismund the Templar is one of the great heroes of the Heresy and I enjoyed how he was characterised in this short story, focusing on what drives him and his internal philosophy. I really enjoyed the Sigismund Character Novel so this was a nice precursor.
Child of Night by John French ****
Fel Zharost is one of the few remaining Terran-born Nightlords, cast out of his Legion after the Edict of Nikea. This story ties into the Errant Knights and Malcador plotline. Overall quite a fun look at life on early Unified Terra, and how a Night Lords librarian could use his powers for torture.
Lost Sons by James Swallow ****
The sons of the Angel left behind the defend Baal have spent five years waiting to hear from their father, but the Ruinstorm has isolated them from the rest of their Legion. Now Malcador seeks to dissolve the Legion, sending one of his Errant Knights Tylos Rubio to carry out the deed.
I like short stories like this that fill in little gaps, showing all the different experiences of the Heresy.
Immortal Duty by Nick Kyme ****
I’m usually not a big fan of the Iron Hands, but this story of a boarding action above Istvaan V offered some intense and exciting action. Ahrem Gallikus is an Immortal of the Iron Hands. The Immortals of are made up of Legionaries that have erred, that have brought shame on the Legion, and so they fight in suicidal fashion. There is no honour for them. Some fun action.
After Desh’ea by Matthew Farrer *****
I loved this look at the World Eaters back when they were still the War Hounds of the Emperor.
Angron has been taken from his people at the end of their failed slave rebellion. His brain itches with violence and pain, and Kharn 8th Company Captain must convince his Primarch to lead them.
I thought the writer did a fantastic job capturing Angron's pain and anger, a wounded god lashing out in frustration and agony. And Kharn here is noble and steadfast, loyal to his Legion and Father. This is a fantastic short story to read before ADB's Betrayer.
The Laurel of Defiance Guy Haley ****
The defenders of the Imperium Secundus are to be honoured, human and transhuman alike. But the ceremony does not sit well with Corvo of the Ultramarines. This story takes its time to develop the world of the Heresy outside of the battlefield, showing celebration and lightness, while in the background is destruction and ruin. It also plays around with the growing divide between the Astartes and regular humanity, a gap that grows considerably by the 41st Millenium.
We are also served some intense action as loyalists must face a daemon-possessed Titan.
What really made the story was the strong, clear characterisation of Corvo. After reading so many Heresy stories, Astartes can begin to blend together, so having a clear personality makes the story more memorable.
Corvo goes on to appear in "Pharos".
Daemonology by Chris Wraight *****
“All the gene-progeny of the Great Project had been damaged by the scattering, but Mortarion’s wounds ran deeper than most. Angron had been physically damaged, and Curze’s mind had sunk into darkness, but Mortarion seemed to have inherited something of both afflictions.”
Mortarion’s hatred and distrust of “witch-kind” runs deep as a result of a brutal childhood on Barbarus. That hatred will see him raze a planet to the ground.
This story helps to illustrate Mortarion’s fall, his distrust of the Emperor and the Malcador makes his betrayal unsurprising, but tragic. If the circumstances had been different, if Barbarus had not been his adopted home, maybe he would have stood a chance. But instead, he is damned to become what he hates the most.
Rebirth by Chris Wraight *****
A direct follow-up to "Thousand Sons" by McNeill.
Surviving members of the Thousand Sons return to the Prospero seeking a sign of their father. Dark and depressing.
Little Horus by Dan Abnett *****
"I was there the day the Warmaster slew the Emperor" with those words Abnett opened the Horus Heresy series. Abnett writes the Heresy with gravitas and weight to it, as if it was a historical drama.
"Horus Rising" Book One of the Heresy series focused on Garviel Loken, a Luna Wolf elevated to the Mournival, the council that guided the Legion. This short story focuses on his Mournival brother, Horus Aximand or "Little Horus".
On Istvaan III the Mournival was shattered. Brother against brother, two of its members were slain, and Abaddon and Aximand survived. Aximand is shaken, haunted even by those events. The Legion has changed not just in name and colour, but in character, and it is not clear if he can accept it.
Compelling character focused work by Abnett. Aximand next appears in the short story "The Either"
Child of Chaos by Chris Wraight *****
“Blessed is the mind too small to doubt.”
One of the greatest villains of the Heresy speaks directly to the reader to make an account of his origins on the dusty desert world of Colchis.
Sometimes an origin is better left unknown, it can detract from the actions of the present. But in this case it only adds to the vileness and despicability of Erebus. He is genuinely such a fun villain to hate. Truly unredeemable without a single virtue.
Erebus is who he always has been. He is no turncoat for his loyalties never altered. As he waits for the Siege to begin, he is no different than the boy playing with scorpions on Colchis. And it is his self-awareness that is so delicious. There is no self-doubt, he does not whisper lies to soothe his mind, he knows who he is and embraces it.
Artefacts by Nick Kyme ****
Shortly before the events of Isstvan V on Nocture, Vulkan tells his Master of the Forge T'Kell of terrible destruction.
Vulkan solemnly recalls the destruction of Nostramo by his brother Curze. Vulkan was horrified by his brother’s acts, knowing that they were not merely the petulant tantrum of a child, but that they were pre-mediated vengeance. Word has only just reached him of Horus’ betrayal, and he readies for Istvaan V. Sorrow in his heart for what has become of his brothers.
Vulkan is perhaps the most brotherly and kind of the Primarchs, so to see him struggle with the weight of his brothers’ treachery crates powerful and emotional scenes.
T'kell Master of the Forge reappears in Deathfire and Sons of the Forge.
The Grey Raven by Gav Thorpe ***
This short story takes place after the events of "Weregeld".
Balsar of the Raven Guard, formerly Chief of the Order Librarius seeks to return to Terra to petition the Sigillite to reinstate the Librarius. But as he is waiting for permission to dock above Terra, the Custodes Guard he once fought alongside suddenly and without warning turn on him.
Being hunted down by the Emperor’s personal guard, Balsar must fight to survive, all the while keeping his oath to never again use his psychic powers.
The action was fun and intense, and the mystery of the Custodes’ apparent betrayal was interesting at first, but I found the reveal to be a bit disappointing.
Liar’s Due by James Swallow ****
I really enjoyed this story for showing an entirely different aspect of the Heresy. Focusing on a small town on an agri-world out on the fringes of the Imperium, news of the Heresy causes an uproar as sides are taken and panic sets in.
This is a side of the Heresy that doesn't get much focus but I really enjoyed it. The people of this town have never laid eyes on a Space Marine let alone a Primarch, the Heresy is so far away yet so terrifyingly near. The normal human perspective was well written and interesting.
A more philosophical take on Warhammer, as the old priest of the last church on Terra is confronted by the Emperor of Mankind at the end of the Unification Wars. I really enjoyed this story as a way of demonstrating the Emperor's arrogance and disdain for element of humanity. He has lived so long and seen so much he seems jaded. As much as he wishes to elevate and uplift humanity, there seems to be a disgust directed at the human experience that paints the Emperor as a complex character.
Savage Weapons by Aaron Dembski-Bowden *****
The Lion is a hunter, a monster killer, a weapon forged by the Emperor. His brother Curze a mad butcher, a torturer, a sadist. In the void they have played a dark game of cat and mouse, slaughtering worlds and burning ships in the darkness of space. Now it will come to an end, in a climatic confrontation.
ADB feels his story with such character and charisma that it is impossible to not get sucked in. The story oozes drama and was a strong conclusion to the book. I would love to see him write the Dark Angels again.
Imperfect by Nick Kyme *****
A game of regicide between two brothers, the Phoenician and the Gorgon.
This story did more to invest me in Ferrus and Fulgrim than almost any other story in the Heresy. Their flaws and strengths fully on display, as well as their close bond. No two brothers shared more love for one another among the Primarchs Ferrus and Fulgrim. Tragic but also a lot of fun.
The Iron Within by Rob Sanders *****
The passion and intensity of the Heresy series comes from betrayal, of the hatred of one brother for another. Betrayal after all never comes from an enemy.
This is a follow up to the Primarch Novel "Pertuabo: The Hammer of Olympia" as Barbarus Dantioch, loyal to the Empire, must take up arms against his brothers. The action is intense and exciting, the drama compelling, fantastic story.
Barbarus Dantioch returns in "The Unremembered Empire" and "The Heart of the Pharos" and "Pharos".
Black Oculus by John French ****
A creepy little tale told in the second person, as a Navigator tells the story to the reader. Stuck in the Eye of Terror after the events of “Angel Exterminatus”, the Iron Warriors must travel through the Warp. But to do so requires the skills of the Navigators, and what their third eyes will see is beyond human comprehension. A very intimate and unsettling story.
Brotherhood of the Moon by Chris Wraight *****
A member of the White Scars is interrogated by his brothers over his allegiance. The White Scars were ever independent, warriors on their own path. It is not strange that with the schism of the Imperium, there would be various views of the path to take. I enjoyed the way Wraight drew out this story, of White Scar battling alongside the Luna Wolves, the initiation into the Lodge.
It adds to the story of Torghun Khan that began in “Brotherhood of the Storm”.
Bjorn: Lone Wolf by Chris Wraight ****
A basic enough story that is well-executed. Bjorn finally gets his revenge on the Daemon that slew his packmates. His long solitude can finally come to an end. Exciting visceral action that also adds some depth to a pre-established important character.
Bloodhowl by Chris Forrester ****
Russ has called for all his wayward sons to stand by him, in preparation for one final assault of the traitors. But there are some who will not heed the call.
I thought this story did a good job of looking at the effect Propsero had on the Vlkya Fenryka. Where once they obeyed every order without question, now they wonder about the justification of each order. They seek to be more than the Emperor’s executioners, instead to be the protectors of the Emperor’s Realm.
Champion of Oaths by John French *****
The story cuts back and forth, following Sigismund as he fights to protect other children in a refugee camp on Terra, to Sigismund dueling his brother Templars to take on the role of Champion of Oaths.
Sigismund the Templar is one of the great heroes of the Heresy and I enjoyed how he was characterised in this short story, focusing on what drives him and his internal philosophy. I really enjoyed the Sigismund Character Novel so this was a nice precursor.
Child of Night by John French ****
Fel Zharost is one of the few remaining Terran-born Nightlords, cast out of his Legion after the Edict of Nikea. This story ties into the Errant Knights and Malcador plotline. Overall quite a fun look at life on early Unified Terra, and how a Night Lords librarian could use his powers for torture.
Lost Sons by James Swallow ****
The sons of the Angel left behind the defend Baal have spent five years waiting to hear from their father, but the Ruinstorm has isolated them from the rest of their Legion. Now Malcador seeks to dissolve the Legion, sending one of his Errant Knights Tylos Rubio to carry out the deed.
I like short stories like this that fill in little gaps, showing all the different experiences of the Heresy.
Immortal Duty by Nick Kyme ****
I’m usually not a big fan of the Iron Hands, but this story of a boarding action above Istvaan V offered some intense and exciting action. Ahrem Gallikus is an Immortal of the Iron Hands. The Immortals of are made up of Legionaries that have erred, that have brought shame on the Legion, and so they fight in suicidal fashion. There is no honour for them. Some fun action.
After Desh’ea by Matthew Farrer *****
I loved this look at the World Eaters back when they were still the War Hounds of the Emperor.
Angron has been taken from his people at the end of their failed slave rebellion. His brain itches with violence and pain, and Kharn 8th Company Captain must convince his Primarch to lead them.
I thought the writer did a fantastic job capturing Angron's pain and anger, a wounded god lashing out in frustration and agony. And Kharn here is noble and steadfast, loyal to his Legion and Father. This is a fantastic short story to read before ADB's Betrayer.
The Laurel of Defiance Guy Haley ****
The defenders of the Imperium Secundus are to be honoured, human and transhuman alike. But the ceremony does not sit well with Corvo of the Ultramarines. This story takes its time to develop the world of the Heresy outside of the battlefield, showing celebration and lightness, while in the background is destruction and ruin. It also plays around with the growing divide between the Astartes and regular humanity, a gap that grows considerably by the 41st Millenium.
We are also served some intense action as loyalists must face a daemon-possessed Titan.
What really made the story was the strong, clear characterisation of Corvo. After reading so many Heresy stories, Astartes can begin to blend together, so having a clear personality makes the story more memorable.
Corvo goes on to appear in "Pharos".
Daemonology by Chris Wraight *****
“All the gene-progeny of the Great Project had been damaged by the scattering, but Mortarion’s wounds ran deeper than most. Angron had been physically damaged, and Curze’s mind had sunk into darkness, but Mortarion seemed to have inherited something of both afflictions.”
Mortarion’s hatred and distrust of “witch-kind” runs deep as a result of a brutal childhood on Barbarus. That hatred will see him raze a planet to the ground.
This story helps to illustrate Mortarion’s fall, his distrust of the Emperor and the Malcador makes his betrayal unsurprising, but tragic. If the circumstances had been different, if Barbarus had not been his adopted home, maybe he would have stood a chance. But instead, he is damned to become what he hates the most.
Rebirth by Chris Wraight *****
A direct follow-up to "Thousand Sons" by McNeill.
Surviving members of the Thousand Sons return to the Prospero seeking a sign of their father. Dark and depressing.
Little Horus by Dan Abnett *****
"I was there the day the Warmaster slew the Emperor" with those words Abnett opened the Horus Heresy series. Abnett writes the Heresy with gravitas and weight to it, as if it was a historical drama.
"Horus Rising" Book One of the Heresy series focused on Garviel Loken, a Luna Wolf elevated to the Mournival, the council that guided the Legion. This short story focuses on his Mournival brother, Horus Aximand or "Little Horus".
On Istvaan III the Mournival was shattered. Brother against brother, two of its members were slain, and Abaddon and Aximand survived. Aximand is shaken, haunted even by those events. The Legion has changed not just in name and colour, but in character, and it is not clear if he can accept it.
Compelling character focused work by Abnett. Aximand next appears in the short story "The Either"
Child of Chaos by Chris Wraight *****
“Blessed is the mind too small to doubt.”
One of the greatest villains of the Heresy speaks directly to the reader to make an account of his origins on the dusty desert world of Colchis.
Sometimes an origin is better left unknown, it can detract from the actions of the present. But in this case it only adds to the vileness and despicability of Erebus. He is genuinely such a fun villain to hate. Truly unredeemable without a single virtue.
Erebus is who he always has been. He is no turncoat for his loyalties never altered. As he waits for the Siege to begin, he is no different than the boy playing with scorpions on Colchis. And it is his self-awareness that is so delicious. There is no self-doubt, he does not whisper lies to soothe his mind, he knows who he is and embraces it.
Artefacts by Nick Kyme ****
Shortly before the events of Isstvan V on Nocture, Vulkan tells his Master of the Forge T'Kell of terrible destruction.
Vulkan solemnly recalls the destruction of Nostramo by his brother Curze. Vulkan was horrified by his brother’s acts, knowing that they were not merely the petulant tantrum of a child, but that they were pre-mediated vengeance. Word has only just reached him of Horus’ betrayal, and he readies for Istvaan V. Sorrow in his heart for what has become of his brothers.
Vulkan is perhaps the most brotherly and kind of the Primarchs, so to see him struggle with the weight of his brothers’ treachery crates powerful and emotional scenes.
T'kell Master of the Forge reappears in Deathfire and Sons of the Forge.
The Grey Raven by Gav Thorpe ***
This short story takes place after the events of "Weregeld".
Balsar of the Raven Guard, formerly Chief of the Order Librarius seeks to return to Terra to petition the Sigillite to reinstate the Librarius. But as he is waiting for permission to dock above Terra, the Custodes Guard he once fought alongside suddenly and without warning turn on him.
Being hunted down by the Emperor’s personal guard, Balsar must fight to survive, all the while keeping his oath to never again use his psychic powers.
The action was fun and intense, and the mystery of the Custodes’ apparent betrayal was interesting at first, but I found the reveal to be a bit disappointing.
Liar’s Due by James Swallow ****
I really enjoyed this story for showing an entirely different aspect of the Heresy. Focusing on a small town on an agri-world out on the fringes of the Imperium, news of the Heresy causes an uproar as sides are taken and panic sets in.
This is a side of the Heresy that doesn't get much focus but I really enjoyed it. The people of this town have never laid eyes on a Space Marine let alone a Primarch, the Heresy is so far away yet so terrifyingly near. The normal human perspective was well written and interesting.
will-finish-one-day
June 11, 2025Need to return this ebook to the library, but I read these stories:
"The Last Church" (The Emperor), by Graham McNeill
"Savage Weapons" (Dark Angels), by Aaron Dembski-Bowden
"Imperfect" (The Emperor's Children), by Nick Kyme
"Child of Night" (Night Lords), by John French—I was so confused when I first read this, at I'd recently read "Eater of Dreams," which is a continuation of this story.
"Lost Sons" (Blood Angels), by James Swallow
"Immortal Duty" (Iron Hands), by Nick Kyme
"After Desh'ea" (World Eaters), by Matthew Farrer—The Emperor really f*cked up with Angron.
"The Laurel of Defiance" (Ultramarines), by Guy Haley—Lucretius Corvo is my new hero.
"The Grey Raven" (Raven Guard), by Gav Thorpe
"Liar's Due" (Alpha Legion), by James Swallow
"The Last Church" (The Emperor), by Graham McNeill
"Savage Weapons" (Dark Angels), by Aaron Dembski-Bowden
"Imperfect" (The Emperor's Children), by Nick Kyme
"Child of Night" (Night Lords), by John French—I was so confused when I first read this, at I'd recently read "Eater of Dreams," which is a continuation of this story.
"Lost Sons" (Blood Angels), by James Swallow
"Immortal Duty" (Iron Hands), by Nick Kyme
"After Desh'ea" (World Eaters), by Matthew Farrer—The Emperor really f*cked up with Angron.
"The Laurel of Defiance" (Ultramarines), by Guy Haley—Lucretius Corvo is my new hero.
"The Grey Raven" (Raven Guard), by Gav Thorpe
"Liar's Due" (Alpha Legion), by James Swallow
December 26, 2022
This set of stories is a really fantastic introduction to the Horus Heresy series and features one story focusing on every single legion of the “Space Marines” involved in the conflict (as well as one extra story featuring the Emperor for good measure)
It’s an incredible package given its low price and has some really great stories. My favourites are “The Last Church”, “Daemonology”, “Liars Due” and “After Desh'ea”
It’s an incredible package given its low price and has some really great stories. My favourites are “The Last Church”, “Daemonology”, “Liars Due” and “After Desh'ea”
February 12, 2025
Much like my thoughts on other warhammer short story and novella compilations (and Warhammer novels in general), this is a great point if you already have background knowledge on the setting and want to see more about the different legions during the Horus Heresy. Not all the stories were necessarily worth the time to read if you do not care for a given legion, but I enjoyed all of them in some shape or another and would recommend the collection as a whole for such purpose.
July 24, 2025
There were some awesome stories in here, particularly the ones centered around Kharn and Erebus, but I was really hoping to get a bit more about the lesser celebrated legions. And if you are just starting your journey into the wonder that is Warhammer or The Horus Heresy, don't start here. So much will go over your head.
August 25, 2023
Damn big armored dudes smacking one another around, in space. What's not to like? This is a reprint anthology, so for those reading Warhammer 40K already for a while there may be some repetition, but I enjoyed it for what it was. And some Dan Abnett in the mix did not hurt any.
October 15, 2024
Some of my favorite short stories are in this collection. It is strange that some of them did not make it in the official anthology collections in the Horus Heresy books. I consider it important reading for any completionist of that series and could be read after the Primarchs books.
December 6, 2024
Pretty cool book, was my introduction to Warhammer. I didn't dislike any of the short stories despite how varied the writing styles can be. As an introductory source perhaps I still had to look several elements to get a clear picture, but I didn't really mind this.
August 26, 2025
Some of these stories were REALLY good, some were REALLY not very good. But I liked that each legion got a story; with some focusing on the humble legionaries and others on the primarchs. A good collection overall (even if some stories really were not good).
July 15, 2024
Absolutely love this anthology
January 22, 2025
one of the best anthology
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