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Lucille Von Shard #1
Outgunned
Epic aerial battles and suspense in the skies above Bacchus
The Aeronautica Imperialis are the masters of the skies in the 41st millennium, waging wars of breakneck aerial combat where only skill stands between victory and death. Flight Commander Lucille von Shard is an ace, a living exemplar of what it means to fly in the name of the Emperor… or so Propagandist Kile Simlex is told.
Braving the foetid waters of Bacchus and its rampaging greenskin hordes, Simlex is tasked with producing a cinema-pict portraying Shard as an Imperial hero. Shortly after his arrival planetside, however, he discovers the war effort is in shambles – the Imperium’s overstretched forces are in full retreat, the local planetary governor is desperately downplaying the conflict at every turn, and Shard is an arrogant misanthrope who only avoids sanction due to her consummate skills.
But these skills may prove the only hope of survival, for something vast and terrible lurks within the clouds. The Green Storm approaches.
The Aeronautica Imperialis are the masters of the skies in the 41st millennium, waging wars of breakneck aerial combat where only skill stands between victory and death. Flight Commander Lucille von Shard is an ace, a living exemplar of what it means to fly in the name of the Emperor… or so Propagandist Kile Simlex is told.
Braving the foetid waters of Bacchus and its rampaging greenskin hordes, Simlex is tasked with producing a cinema-pict portraying Shard as an Imperial hero. Shortly after his arrival planetside, however, he discovers the war effort is in shambles – the Imperium’s overstretched forces are in full retreat, the local planetary governor is desperately downplaying the conflict at every turn, and Shard is an arrogant misanthrope who only avoids sanction due to her consummate skills.
But these skills may prove the only hope of survival, for something vast and terrible lurks within the clouds. The Green Storm approaches.
336 pages, Paperback
First published August 20, 2022
26 people are currently reading
292 people want to read
About the author
Denny Flowers
29 books18 followersDenny Flowers is a writer of Warhammer 40k, Age of Sigmar, and Necromunda fiction. He submitted his first Black Library story during open submissions in 2018.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
August 22, 2022
Denny Flowers’ second Black Library novel Outgunned takes to the skies with a tale of picts, propaganda, underestimated xenos and the aerial might of the Aeronautica Imperialis. On the agri world of Bacchus – famed for its wine production – an infestation of orks has rapidly progressed from a minor irritation to all-out war, and Imperial forces are making slow progress. When Imperial Propagandist Kile Simlex arrives on Bacchus, tasked with recording a motivational pict to inspire confidence and aid recruitment, he finds little as he expected. His intended subject – Flight Commander Lucille von Shard – proves not quite the dashing hero he imagined, while the orks are far from the mindless wretches portrayed in the picts he’s seen. As he wrestles with questions of how to capture his pict and how to craft a suitable narrative, the war for Bacchus becomes increasingly desperate.
There’s no question that this is a 40k story in its setting and overall tone, and there are some great moments of airborne action that will please Aeronautica fans, but don’t expect wall to wall dogfights or constant breakneck action. It would be a stretch to call this ‘domestic 40k’, but it’s definitely more measured in pace, and very much revolves around the strained relationship between Simlex and Shard. As Simlex gradually sees through his initial naivety Shard’s character comes into greater focus, and her attitude to life (and odd tendency to talk about herself in the third person) starts to make a little more sense to him. There are also splashes of dark, mildly absurd humour here and there, with hints of Ciaphas Cain in Shard’s bleak, sharp wit and Simlex’s slightly hapless naivety. On top of its close focus on these two characters and a single, relatively small-scale war though, it also does a brilliant job of depicting the Imperium in microcosm – no glory, no heroics, just sacrifice and ignorance and desperation and sheer bloody-mindedness. In short, it’s a breath of fresh air and a welcome new take on a 40k war story.
Read the full review at https://www.trackofwords.com/2022/08/...
There’s no question that this is a 40k story in its setting and overall tone, and there are some great moments of airborne action that will please Aeronautica fans, but don’t expect wall to wall dogfights or constant breakneck action. It would be a stretch to call this ‘domestic 40k’, but it’s definitely more measured in pace, and very much revolves around the strained relationship between Simlex and Shard. As Simlex gradually sees through his initial naivety Shard’s character comes into greater focus, and her attitude to life (and odd tendency to talk about herself in the third person) starts to make a little more sense to him. There are also splashes of dark, mildly absurd humour here and there, with hints of Ciaphas Cain in Shard’s bleak, sharp wit and Simlex’s slightly hapless naivety. On top of its close focus on these two characters and a single, relatively small-scale war though, it also does a brilliant job of depicting the Imperium in microcosm – no glory, no heroics, just sacrifice and ignorance and desperation and sheer bloody-mindedness. In short, it’s a breath of fresh air and a welcome new take on a 40k war story.
Read the full review at https://www.trackofwords.com/2022/08/...
September 18, 2022
Rating 4.75.
One of the fastest rising stars of Warhammer fiction, Denny Flowers, returns with his second novel in the Warhammer 40,000 canon, Outgunned, a deeply compelling and epic novel with a twisty and powerful story.
In the far future, the soldiers of the Imperium of Man fight monsters and aliens on many battlefields and there is always a need for fresh bodies to fill the gaps in the ranks. That is where Kile Simlex comes in. A talented propagandist, Simlex excels at creating moving cinematic picts to inspire the people and increase recruitment to the Astra Militarum. However, Simlex desires greater realism and seeks to travel to a battlefield to gain real footage for his greatest pict yet.
Travelling to the fetid swamp planet of Bacchus, Propagandist Simlex plans to chronicle the adventures of the Aeronautica Imperialis, the brave flying aces who traverse the skies, fighting in deadly aerial combat against the rampaging ork hordes. In particular, he hopes to make a pict about legendary fighter ace, Lucille von Shard, considered to be the greatest pilot in the Imperium, to turn her into a renowned hero. However, not everything is as it seems on Bacchus, and Simlex’s attempts to get footage may cost him everything.
Soon after arriving, Simlex begins to realise that the war on Bacchus is not going to plan. The undermanned Aeronautica forces are being overwhelmed by the supposedly crude orks who have created an elaborate fleet of fighters and are slowly destroying Imperial forces from a hidden base. At the same time, a mysterious sickness is destroying the planet itself, while its governor is determined to downplay the war no matter the cost.
However, his biggest threat may come from his chosen subject, as Lucille von Shard is an arrogant and disobedient pilot who has only avoided execution due to her peerless flying abilities. Determined to make the situation work, Simlex attempts to chronicle the reluctant Shard’s skills, while also investigating the strange occurrences on Bacchus. But is even the legendary Lucille von Shard capable of defeating the mysterious enemy waiting for them within the clouds? The Green Storm hungers for combat, and the entire Imperium may shake as it approaches.
This was a superb and deeply impressive Warhammer 40,000 read that really highlights Flower’s growing skill as a science fiction writer. Containing a unique and highly addictive narrative, Outgunned was an outstanding read that blended an exceptional story with some impressive glances at the wider Warhammer 40,000 universe. I had an amazing time getting through this book and it was one of the more exciting and compelling Warhammer novels of 2022 so far.
To see the full review, click on the link below:
https://unseenlibrary.com/2022/09/18/...
For other exciting reviews and content, check out my blog at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/
One of the fastest rising stars of Warhammer fiction, Denny Flowers, returns with his second novel in the Warhammer 40,000 canon, Outgunned, a deeply compelling and epic novel with a twisty and powerful story.
In the far future, the soldiers of the Imperium of Man fight monsters and aliens on many battlefields and there is always a need for fresh bodies to fill the gaps in the ranks. That is where Kile Simlex comes in. A talented propagandist, Simlex excels at creating moving cinematic picts to inspire the people and increase recruitment to the Astra Militarum. However, Simlex desires greater realism and seeks to travel to a battlefield to gain real footage for his greatest pict yet.
Travelling to the fetid swamp planet of Bacchus, Propagandist Simlex plans to chronicle the adventures of the Aeronautica Imperialis, the brave flying aces who traverse the skies, fighting in deadly aerial combat against the rampaging ork hordes. In particular, he hopes to make a pict about legendary fighter ace, Lucille von Shard, considered to be the greatest pilot in the Imperium, to turn her into a renowned hero. However, not everything is as it seems on Bacchus, and Simlex’s attempts to get footage may cost him everything.
Soon after arriving, Simlex begins to realise that the war on Bacchus is not going to plan. The undermanned Aeronautica forces are being overwhelmed by the supposedly crude orks who have created an elaborate fleet of fighters and are slowly destroying Imperial forces from a hidden base. At the same time, a mysterious sickness is destroying the planet itself, while its governor is determined to downplay the war no matter the cost.
However, his biggest threat may come from his chosen subject, as Lucille von Shard is an arrogant and disobedient pilot who has only avoided execution due to her peerless flying abilities. Determined to make the situation work, Simlex attempts to chronicle the reluctant Shard’s skills, while also investigating the strange occurrences on Bacchus. But is even the legendary Lucille von Shard capable of defeating the mysterious enemy waiting for them within the clouds? The Green Storm hungers for combat, and the entire Imperium may shake as it approaches.
This was a superb and deeply impressive Warhammer 40,000 read that really highlights Flower’s growing skill as a science fiction writer. Containing a unique and highly addictive narrative, Outgunned was an outstanding read that blended an exceptional story with some impressive glances at the wider Warhammer 40,000 universe. I had an amazing time getting through this book and it was one of the more exciting and compelling Warhammer novels of 2022 so far.
To see the full review, click on the link below:
https://unseenlibrary.com/2022/09/18/...
For other exciting reviews and content, check out my blog at:
https://unseenlibrary.com/
September 2, 2024
Outmatched
Surprisingly enough, Outgunned is an Aeronautica Imperialis novel focused on an Administratum Propagandist. This is the first time I’ve encountered Kile Simlex’s ilk. He’s a cross between scribe and Commissar, with none of the latter’s ability to inspire through fear or determination. He’s also unexpectedly delusional. Many 40K novels use Imperium slogans to dark comedic effect, whereby deadly enemies are laughably weak, and guardsmen aren’t aware they’re cannon fodder. Readers might expect our protagonist to know his role in the Imperial war machine, given that he transforms devastation into inspirational picts. Yet he’s absurdly naive and acts as an exposition surrogate in a straightforward “welcome to the real world” plot.
Opposite the lost opportunity is Lucille Von Shard. She’s a generic maverick ace pilot blessed by plot armour. A serviceable character arc creates a bond between her and Simlex while gradually revealing her backstory. However, she never develops a distinct personality, and the solo nature of her sorties also precludes supporting cast members who might fall in battle. We never see whatever camaraderie exists with her squadron. The back of the cover calls this “A Lucille Von Shard Novel,” but despite copious page count, readers will find it hard to distinguish her from any number of redshirts.
Outgunned instead focuses on political maneuvering between Imperial Guard command, the local Governor, and subsector industrial complexes. It’s a poor match with the main plot. Simlex is busy learning that Orks are actually deadly foes and lacks the authority to engage with the broader undercurrents. In fact, he’s determined not to dig deeper into the intrigue, regardless of hints left in high-powered dining parties and factorum tours. Instead, the author focuses on the Aeronautica Imperialis, where we learn nothing about the battlefield, force projection or ace combat. Even aerial furballs are tame. Despite a competent story, I question these editorial choices. Dozens of unique elements never cohere. All the characters are bland. The author squanders the unique Propagandist role, which almost demands dark humour. Outgunned is fine, but don’t expect anything more.
Recommended, with reservations, for WH40K fans.
Surprisingly enough, Outgunned is an Aeronautica Imperialis novel focused on an Administratum Propagandist. This is the first time I’ve encountered Kile Simlex’s ilk. He’s a cross between scribe and Commissar, with none of the latter’s ability to inspire through fear or determination. He’s also unexpectedly delusional. Many 40K novels use Imperium slogans to dark comedic effect, whereby deadly enemies are laughably weak, and guardsmen aren’t aware they’re cannon fodder. Readers might expect our protagonist to know his role in the Imperial war machine, given that he transforms devastation into inspirational picts. Yet he’s absurdly naive and acts as an exposition surrogate in a straightforward “welcome to the real world” plot.
Opposite the lost opportunity is Lucille Von Shard. She’s a generic maverick ace pilot blessed by plot armour. A serviceable character arc creates a bond between her and Simlex while gradually revealing her backstory. However, she never develops a distinct personality, and the solo nature of her sorties also precludes supporting cast members who might fall in battle. We never see whatever camaraderie exists with her squadron. The back of the cover calls this “A Lucille Von Shard Novel,” but despite copious page count, readers will find it hard to distinguish her from any number of redshirts.
Outgunned instead focuses on political maneuvering between Imperial Guard command, the local Governor, and subsector industrial complexes. It’s a poor match with the main plot. Simlex is busy learning that Orks are actually deadly foes and lacks the authority to engage with the broader undercurrents. In fact, he’s determined not to dig deeper into the intrigue, regardless of hints left in high-powered dining parties and factorum tours. Instead, the author focuses on the Aeronautica Imperialis, where we learn nothing about the battlefield, force projection or ace combat. Even aerial furballs are tame. Despite a competent story, I question these editorial choices. Dozens of unique elements never cohere. All the characters are bland. The author squanders the unique Propagandist role, which almost demands dark humour. Outgunned is fine, but don’t expect anything more.
Recommended, with reservations, for WH40K fans.
October 9, 2023
Una gran sorpresa. Me ha atrapado de principio a fin.
Como cabría esperar, sólo apto para fans del universo wh40k.
Como cabría esperar, sólo apto para fans del universo wh40k.
August 26, 2022
For a book labelled " A Lucille Von Shard Novel" it takes a surprising amount of time before she plays more than a passing role in this story, but it is none the worse for that.
This is the story of how Imperial Propagandist Kile Simlex arrives on Bacchus ready to produce a jolly inspiring war movie and rapidly becomes embroiled in both the bloody, dirty reality of war and the dark conspiracies, politics, and requirements of etiquette that surround the nobility of the planet.
It is a fast-paced, witty novel that seamlessly shifts focus from ballrooms to the skies above battlefields. Heartily recommended.
This is the story of how Imperial Propagandist Kile Simlex arrives on Bacchus ready to produce a jolly inspiring war movie and rapidly becomes embroiled in both the bloody, dirty reality of war and the dark conspiracies, politics, and requirements of etiquette that surround the nobility of the planet.
It is a fast-paced, witty novel that seamlessly shifts focus from ballrooms to the skies above battlefields. Heartily recommended.
April 17, 2023
A more flamboyant tale than many 40k books, though is obviously part of the setting, which grim depictions of serfdom on an imperial world and service in the aeronautica.
The characters start out as archetypes, Simlex the naive outsider and Von Shard the stoic, yet prickly, fighter ace. They grow to be more rounded, and even likeable, in their own ways throughout the book.
The orks allow for some wiggle room in the wider lore that helps make for a dramatic ending.
The twists are well placed and add depth to the tale.
And I’m a sucker for a sentimental epilogue.
The characters start out as archetypes, Simlex the naive outsider and Von Shard the stoic, yet prickly, fighter ace. They grow to be more rounded, and even likeable, in their own ways throughout the book.
The orks allow for some wiggle room in the wider lore that helps make for a dramatic ending.
The twists are well placed and add depth to the tale.
And I’m a sucker for a sentimental epilogue.
December 9, 2023
Easily hits the 4.5 mark most of the time.
This was a really interesting tale in the world of Warhammer 40,000, because it comes from a perspective not really told often in books as far as I can tell. I haven't read a ton of 40k novels, but even so, I feel like this isn't the usual choice for a main character in a game designed around having the most epic of epic battles. Outgunned introduces us to Propagandist Simlex and it's through his eyes that we have a first hand account of observations of the Ork invasion of the planet Bacchus.
The story is told from a first person perspective, which I am normally not a fan of, but wow does Denny Flowers make a good use of it. I can't think of a better reason to use first person than to see through the eyes of an Imperial Propagandist and their thought process on trying to turn situations into well framed propaganda tools! Simlex is tasked with putting together a piece about the Aeronautica Imperialis and one of the intended main subjects is Flight Commander Lucille von Shard, since she is one of the most skilled pilots in the Imperium. However, Simlex does not know that she is a bit of a black sheep amidst the extremely loyal von Shard family, so Simlex has his work cut out for him.
The real problem on Bacchus is that despite the finery of what the governor tries to show, the war is not going very well for the Imperium. The citizen believe the Orks to be backwards low-tech creatures that can't even get off the ground. So, imagine Simlex's surprise when he encounters Ork aircraft trying to shoot him down as he arrives on planet! This is the first dose of things not being entirely what they seem. Coupled with the fact that Shard resents being used as a propaganda tool, makes turning this job into a viable propaganda piece nearly impossible.
However, along the way, while Simlex tries to execute his duties, he and Shard find out some startling truths about the nature of Orks. They learn that the xenos are much more dangerous than they feared and that the governor of Bacchus has been in contact with other dangerous aliens, that have had a truly adverse effect on the entire planet. Denny Flowers weaves a rather captivating tale through the warzones and political intrigue. It really shows how the bureaucracy of the Imperium is more a hindrance to its people rather than a feature. Shard also knows the war is not going well at all and she is one of the few soldiers to take on an air of complete cynicism in the face of the losing battles.
In the end, I thought this was a really good book. Some of the political aspects can drag on a little bit, but one of the more major reveals at the end make that more worth it, because it makes sense as to why. The only thing I thought was a bit strange was that at the beginning, as I mentioned, they only thought the Orks were a spear wielding race and had no guns or machinery. But in the actual game it's pretty well available to field these kinds of weapons. I guess I'm just a bit confused on where this story hits in the Imperium time line or if the Imperium has been going far out of it's way to hide the Ork threat. I mean, the Orks can field Titan level weapons... so it just seemed a bit off that people wouldn't know about that. Especially since in the historical setting Necromunda had a problem with Orks a long long time ago.
Either way, really solid book with great characters. You actually don't need to know much about 40k setting to enjoy this book at all. I've read other books, where it's almost essential to know about a particular faction or know about the game, but this book stands out as something I think just about anyone could read.
This was a really interesting tale in the world of Warhammer 40,000, because it comes from a perspective not really told often in books as far as I can tell. I haven't read a ton of 40k novels, but even so, I feel like this isn't the usual choice for a main character in a game designed around having the most epic of epic battles. Outgunned introduces us to Propagandist Simlex and it's through his eyes that we have a first hand account of observations of the Ork invasion of the planet Bacchus.
The story is told from a first person perspective, which I am normally not a fan of, but wow does Denny Flowers make a good use of it. I can't think of a better reason to use first person than to see through the eyes of an Imperial Propagandist and their thought process on trying to turn situations into well framed propaganda tools! Simlex is tasked with putting together a piece about the Aeronautica Imperialis and one of the intended main subjects is Flight Commander Lucille von Shard, since she is one of the most skilled pilots in the Imperium. However, Simlex does not know that she is a bit of a black sheep amidst the extremely loyal von Shard family, so Simlex has his work cut out for him.
The real problem on Bacchus is that despite the finery of what the governor tries to show, the war is not going very well for the Imperium. The citizen believe the Orks to be backwards low-tech creatures that can't even get off the ground. So, imagine Simlex's surprise when he encounters Ork aircraft trying to shoot him down as he arrives on planet! This is the first dose of things not being entirely what they seem. Coupled with the fact that Shard resents being used as a propaganda tool, makes turning this job into a viable propaganda piece nearly impossible.
However, along the way, while Simlex tries to execute his duties, he and Shard find out some startling truths about the nature of Orks. They learn that the xenos are much more dangerous than they feared and that the governor of Bacchus has been in contact with other dangerous aliens, that have had a truly adverse effect on the entire planet. Denny Flowers weaves a rather captivating tale through the warzones and political intrigue. It really shows how the bureaucracy of the Imperium is more a hindrance to its people rather than a feature. Shard also knows the war is not going well at all and she is one of the few soldiers to take on an air of complete cynicism in the face of the losing battles.
In the end, I thought this was a really good book. Some of the political aspects can drag on a little bit, but one of the more major reveals at the end make that more worth it, because it makes sense as to why. The only thing I thought was a bit strange was that at the beginning, as I mentioned, they only thought the Orks were a spear wielding race and had no guns or machinery. But in the actual game it's pretty well available to field these kinds of weapons. I guess I'm just a bit confused on where this story hits in the Imperium time line or if the Imperium has been going far out of it's way to hide the Ork threat. I mean, the Orks can field Titan level weapons... so it just seemed a bit off that people wouldn't know about that. Especially since in the historical setting Necromunda had a problem with Orks a long long time ago.
Either way, really solid book with great characters. You actually don't need to know much about 40k setting to enjoy this book at all. I've read other books, where it's almost essential to know about a particular faction or know about the game, but this book stands out as something I think just about anyone could read.
April 14, 2023
Outgunned was a very pleasant surprise; having enjoyed Flowers’ previous work for BL I’d purchased it on release but it’s sat patiently waiting for it’s slot on the runway until now, and, to further torture the analogy, I wish air traffic control had shunted it to the front of the queue sooner- it’s in full contention for BL book of ‘22.
I can’t recall how many times I’ve read Catch 22 (teenage obsession exacerbated it being a set text a few years later), and as soon as I read that Outgunned was occurring in the Yossarian sub sector I was predisposed to enjoy the book. That sort of real-world nod can sometimes be too on-the-nose, but while Outgunned employs some of the same archetypes as Catch 22, it only recalls the spirit of the earlier book rather than retreading it. I’m telling the story through the eyes of an Imperial Propagandist, Flowers gives us a good outsider’s perspective not just on the conflict on Bacchus, but also on the realities of life in the military wings of the Imperium of Man as opposed to how Simlex and his colleagues present it.
Simlex’s cynicism develops interestingly; but his creeping horror as it dawns on him that the simple caricature of orks he has been raised to expect is a dangerous lie is excellently portrayed. Likewise the slow peeling away of Shard’s protective(?) personality and the uncovering of the cause of Bacchus’ decay and blight. His trio of servo skulls help progress the plot unobtrusively and I *really* appreciate the way that their use as translation devices is gradually introduced- the Xenos in this book, unlike several recent titles, aren’t conveniently fluent in Gothic.
There’s a lot going on in this book; it’s not just dogfight after dogfight- Flowers does a good job of crafting a plausible Imperial society and people’s it with vivid characters; as the book draws to a close it might feel a tad rushed and some plot threads are left dangling tantalizingly out of reach, but, overall, is a really enjoyable read.
I can’t recall how many times I’ve read Catch 22 (teenage obsession exacerbated it being a set text a few years later), and as soon as I read that Outgunned was occurring in the Yossarian sub sector I was predisposed to enjoy the book. That sort of real-world nod can sometimes be too on-the-nose, but while Outgunned employs some of the same archetypes as Catch 22, it only recalls the spirit of the earlier book rather than retreading it. I’m telling the story through the eyes of an Imperial Propagandist, Flowers gives us a good outsider’s perspective not just on the conflict on Bacchus, but also on the realities of life in the military wings of the Imperium of Man as opposed to how Simlex and his colleagues present it.
Simlex’s cynicism develops interestingly; but his creeping horror as it dawns on him that the simple caricature of orks he has been raised to expect is a dangerous lie is excellently portrayed. Likewise the slow peeling away of Shard’s protective(?) personality and the uncovering of the cause of Bacchus’ decay and blight. His trio of servo skulls help progress the plot unobtrusively and I *really* appreciate the way that their use as translation devices is gradually introduced- the Xenos in this book, unlike several recent titles, aren’t conveniently fluent in Gothic.
There’s a lot going on in this book; it’s not just dogfight after dogfight- Flowers does a good job of crafting a plausible Imperial society and people’s it with vivid characters; as the book draws to a close it might feel a tad rushed and some plot threads are left dangling tantalizingly out of reach, but, overall, is a really enjoyable read.
January 15, 2025
Really enjoyed this, I appreciate the effort gone through to balance character personalities. Shard's action-hero persona is balanced really nicely against Simlex and Plient, while the story goes to lengths to point out how Shard can never be sure as to whether he rebellious attitude is a genuine efforts against the domination of the Imperium or part of her Psychological programming to make her into a compelling action hero archetype.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2023
Not quite as good as Double Eagle (the other 40K plane book) but pretty bloody brilliant nevertheless.
March 29, 2025
A fantastic read that has been on my pile of shame for far too long. Light on combat and more an in depth look at propaganda and politics in the 40k universe. Along with the crime imprint this is what I’m wanting from my 40k reads.
May 16, 2023
I went in expecting a light, comic novel about a hotheaded fighter ace and a propagandist fighting orcs and doing some satire about the Imperium and propaganda. Instead, I got about the darkest 40k novel I’ve ever heard (haven’t done Dead Men Walking yet, though). The Imperium here are creepy, decadent, and incompetent in equal measure. The fighter ace isn’t a charming rogue, but a broken and terribly sad woman. The combat is brutal, and the war pointless. The novel itself is pretty good, though a tad unfocused. Also, he struggles to write good aerial combat, although this matters less than you might think.
May 21, 2023
A very good 40k book, giving very interesting views on various things rarely discussed in 40k lore, such as how the Schola Progenium might produce mavericks, how people deal with maintenance in the absence of a mechanicus priest, small-scale inter-planetary politics, or what its like to face the weird tech-abilities of orks in a long war. It is compelling and well written, and I found myself unable to put it down. The characters are believable, if a little bit one-dimensional.
There are a couple of threads left loose, such as the motivations of at least one shadowy faction, which I would have liked to see a bit more resolution for given that its the focus of a rather big part of the book. But the main character not figuring that out makes sense in the story, so as long as you're fine with the MC being a small-fry in the grand scheme of things, who gets a glimse into larger politics but not any explanation, this book is heartily recommended.
There are a couple of threads left loose, such as the motivations of at least one shadowy faction, which I would have liked to see a bit more resolution for given that its the focus of a rather big part of the book. But the main character not figuring that out makes sense in the story, so as long as you're fine with the MC being a small-fry in the grand scheme of things, who gets a glimse into larger politics but not any explanation, this book is heartily recommended.
September 7, 2022
A bleak view of a bleak setting. The book focuses on a documentary/propagandist following the exploits of a fighter group. The book is competently written, nothing made me cringe or left me confused. My issue is with the tone. The book leans into the hopelessness of the setting, without breaking it up with the humor or excitement that can make 40k books fun. The narrator remains in conflict with the other primary and secondary characters making characterization limited. It might attract some, Russian literature after all remains popular, but it’s not for me.
March 4, 2025
'Outgunned' by Denny Flowers
Published 2022 by Black Library, 336 pages
***** Stars
It's my fond memory of absolutely loving Dan Abnett's 'Double Eagle' - featuring the heroic exploits of the brave and courageous pilots of the Aeronautica Imperialis - that really sealed the deal and encouraged me to pick up this book.
I am extremely happy I made that decision, as 'Outgunned' is a great read, although it must be said that it is a very different story from the afore mentioned 'Double Eagle'.
'Outgunned' is only Denny Flowers' second novel, also having written a couple of novellas, and more than a dozen short stories published by the Black Library. I had previously enjoyed his short story 'Bitter Harvest', included in the Warhammer Crime anthology 'Sanction and Sin', so I had an idea of the calibre of his writing and what I might expect.
'Outgunned' is very well written. The language Flowers' uses flows extremely well, and never feels clunky or awkward. I didn't spot any obvious spelling mistakes or typos, that can very easily break a readers concentration and derail the immersive experience of reading a good story. The narrative was engaging and the short chapters helped the plot move along at a gratifying pace.
They say never judge a book by its cover, and at the outset one might judge the cover of 'Outgunned', as perhaps being one of those Warhammer 40k covers that is something of a misrepresentation of the story that lies within.
The cover is a classic war story cover - depicting Flight Commander and 'ace', Lucille von Shard striking a pose of stoic heroism, surrounded by burning buildings, while fighter planes zoom overhead, their cannons blazing - however, this isn't really a war story, yet the cover does absolutely and fantastically represent the ethos of what this story is really all about, which is the often murky difference between the truth and Imperial truth.
So, as I have just said, this isn't really a war story - although there is a rampaging horde of greenskins, a memorable combat scene or two in the swamps, and ubiquitous fighter plane dog-fights in the skies, for what is after all being sold as a book about the Aeronautica Imperialis - what 'Outgunned' really is is an engaging, very enjoyable, and at times quite amusing mystery story, residing comfortably at the periphery of a terrible war.
When Kile Simlex, an Imperial Propagandist of some renown, is sent to the war-torn agri-planet of Bacchus, tasked with creating an inspiring cinema-pict of 'war hero' von Shard, things don't run to plan. Upon arriving planetside, he soon discovers the war effort is in shambles, the 'war hero' is unlike any he has come across before, and there is a strange corruption residing deep within the roots of the planet, that the local planetary governor is trying to keep hidden.
I can wholeheartedly recommend 'Outgunned' for those fans of Warhammer 40k who might on occasion enjoy a slightly more nuanced story, beyond those simply dealing with the honour, glory, courage and horror of bloody conflict waged upon the battlefield.
I wait with bated breath for Denny Flowers' sequel novel, 'Above and Beyond', due for publication early this Summer.
January 20, 2025
Overall, I liked it. It's nothing too special, but apparently I'm a sucker for aircraft battles, flight crews and pilots. Written from the point of view of an imperial propagandist Simlex, which might be a bit weird and unexpected. Nevertheless, I think it was a good choice, as it makes more sense for the background story on the ground of the planet Bacchus. And most of the time, having a more relatable character that knows nothing about flying aircraft can help readers find their way into the story.
The pilot von Shard is a bit obnoxious, but by design and overall it was fine. Especially, with her deeprooted reasons behind it.
I'm rarely a fan of orcs being the opponents in a war inside this setting, as they tend to be rather bland. This was the case here as well, but overall ok.
SPOILERS
Have to admit, I still don't really get the green lightning and teleportation stuff, but it made for a interesting and ominous problem for the pilots. Good portrayal of how harsh the 40k universe can be to it's own people and soldiers. So, the demotion of Simlax in the end was understandable, and while a bit aggravating it made sense, in a way. The mechanic was fun, while a bit simple in his god emperor serving role. Could have been a bit more fleshed out and interesting though.
The narrator did a good job as well in regard to the audio version.
Overall, decent book and I want to read the 2nd.
The pilot von Shard is a bit obnoxious, but by design and overall it was fine. Especially, with her deeprooted reasons behind it.
I'm rarely a fan of orcs being the opponents in a war inside this setting, as they tend to be rather bland. This was the case here as well, but overall ok.
SPOILERS
Have to admit, I still don't really get the green lightning and teleportation stuff, but it made for a interesting and ominous problem for the pilots. Good portrayal of how harsh the 40k universe can be to it's own people and soldiers. So, the demotion of Simlax in the end was understandable, and while a bit aggravating it made sense, in a way. The mechanic was fun, while a bit simple in his god emperor serving role. Could have been a bit more fleshed out and interesting though.
The narrator did a good job as well in regard to the audio version.
Overall, decent book and I want to read the 2nd.
October 4, 2022
Propagandist Simlex has been sent to the (notional) agriworld of Bacchus to make a recruitment film for the Imperium as volunteers are better fodder for the meatgrinder than conscripts. His choice of subject is the Aeronautica Imperialis Ace Lucille Von Shard as who is better than a dashing and faithful hero of the Imperium who daily duels the foul Ork menace in the sky as his focus? At least that what he thinks until he actually meets her...
I've said before that while 40K the tabletop game is the place for Space Marines and other warriors I often find I enjoy the novels that take a step back from the front lines and we get to spend time with Inquisitors, Arbites, civilians and, in this case, propagandists (it's very telling that this is his official title not a slur). It helps to expand the setting and give you new perspectives. And this book is no different as we learn about the people of the Imperium as well as a few things about our Ork friends too.
I'd definitely recommend this to people who want to learn more about the AI and to Ork fans too.
I've said before that while 40K the tabletop game is the place for Space Marines and other warriors I often find I enjoy the novels that take a step back from the front lines and we get to spend time with Inquisitors, Arbites, civilians and, in this case, propagandists (it's very telling that this is his official title not a slur). It helps to expand the setting and give you new perspectives. And this book is no different as we learn about the people of the Imperium as well as a few things about our Ork friends too.
I'd definitely recommend this to people who want to learn more about the AI and to Ork fans too.
September 27, 2024
3.5 stars, a good read. A nice depiction of life during war on a backwater of the imperium, far from the main players of the galaxy.
The story follows a filmmaker tasked with making a recruitment film who meets a rogue ace pilot, and their subsequent hijinx against the ork invasion. Simlex is a good narrator, and Von Shard is an entertaining character in her own right.
Some highlights for me were Plient, the tech-minded grounded pilot who performed repairs because the mechanicus werent around, and the commander who made practical decisions. It was nice to see the exceptions to the rigid and sometimes absurd rules of the 40k universe.
The servo skulls were also neat, and by the end i felt attached to each of them. Another neat idea was the Von Shard family's varied jobs. Excited to see more of them in the future!
The story follows a filmmaker tasked with making a recruitment film who meets a rogue ace pilot, and their subsequent hijinx against the ork invasion. Simlex is a good narrator, and Von Shard is an entertaining character in her own right.
Some highlights for me were Plient, the tech-minded grounded pilot who performed repairs because the mechanicus werent around, and the commander who made practical decisions. It was nice to see the exceptions to the rigid and sometimes absurd rules of the 40k universe.
The servo skulls were also neat, and by the end i felt attached to each of them. Another neat idea was the Von Shard family's varied jobs. Excited to see more of them in the future!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2025
From the outset this boom sets itself apart from other 40k tie-in books, with a dynamic cover style that carries on into the little illustrations around the page numberings. In style, it is also quite different, being centred not around a soldier of the future wars, but a propagandist.
With this narrator, we are allowed in on the carefully manufactured lies that prop up the Imperial regime, shining a light on the sometimes forgotten fact that The Imperium Is Not A Good Thing. And with that comes humour, often lacking in 40k novels.
Of course there's action as well, mainly of the aerial dogfighting variety. All in all, very well done, with some compelling characters struggling against the system as much as their external enemies.
With this narrator, we are allowed in on the carefully manufactured lies that prop up the Imperial regime, shining a light on the sometimes forgotten fact that The Imperium Is Not A Good Thing. And with that comes humour, often lacking in 40k novels.
Of course there's action as well, mainly of the aerial dogfighting variety. All in all, very well done, with some compelling characters struggling against the system as much as their external enemies.
November 4, 2025
This one was a lot more introspective than the Warhammer books I've read, and II really liked it. I love books, in any fantasy or science fiction universe, that are written from the point of view of a Regular Guy. In this case, an Imperial Propagandist who's trying to film a war documentary that's actually true, by interviewing a fighter pilot ace who's a bit... difficult? I loved the insight into the film-making process in the universe (electronic skulls made from the remains of famous past propagandists!?), the thoughtful look into the WHY of war propaganda, and the human element -- my goodness. So much pathos and compassion in this one. Also, ORK PLANES. Also, Flight Sergeant Plient is my new favorite side character.
February 27, 2025
I can't rate this book too low because I love warhammer, but it should be said, I don't feel like the writing is anything spectacular. The characters just kind of "are", you don't see them grow, you get a little bit of why they are how they are, but how they are is not particularly deep or intriguing. Due to the first person retelling perspective of the story, none of the action feels particularly high stakes/doesn't draw you in. These are all things I feel the book could do better. However, I don't feel that the book makes any incredible mistakes. As well as the pacing of the story made it easier to read quickly and the ending is serviceable.
October 31, 2022
Finished Outgunned I will start by saying Denny Flowers is gonna go on my good list he hit it out of the park.
The book is a great look into the day to day operations of a propagandist trying to capture the reality of fighting wars in the imperium. The planet and the orks are portrayed beautifully and the politics I never grew bored of and quite enjoyed. The ending IMO was perfectly fitting for the book and what they were portraying if you like air fights and orks I'd suggest this.
The book is a great look into the day to day operations of a propagandist trying to capture the reality of fighting wars in the imperium. The planet and the orks are portrayed beautifully and the politics I never grew bored of and quite enjoyed. The ending IMO was perfectly fitting for the book and what they were portraying if you like air fights and orks I'd suggest this.
October 11, 2022
Qué buen final! Este libro realmente tiene todo lo que me gusta de Warhammer. Lo único que falta son los space marines. Muy recomendado para conocer más sobre la aeronáutica en el mundo de Warhammer, los orcos, y sobre todo para familiarizarnos con los distintos aviones y naves aéreas. Cuando lo lees y vas investigando o viendo imágenes se hace mucho más significativo.
June 2, 2023
Outstanding! I thought this was going to be a bit similar to Double Eagle by Dan Abnett, but it was quite different.
This novel doesn’t feature as much combat as other Guard novels, a lot of the action takes place behind the lines, with a limited cast of characters but this was an excellent read. Fans of the 40K universe should find lots to like here
This novel doesn’t feature as much combat as other Guard novels, a lot of the action takes place behind the lines, with a limited cast of characters but this was an excellent read. Fans of the 40K universe should find lots to like here
December 28, 2023
A really solid WH40k novel that explores two lesser-visited elements of the Imperium, the Aeronautica Imperialis (on-planet air force) and the Propagandists (govt-sponsored film crews). A few more twists than I expected a really nice dry view of propaganda that's perfectly positioned if you ever wonder why the DoD provides funding for a whole bunch of Marvel/Transformers stuff.
December 27, 2022
Now for Something Different
This is a little covered aspect of the Astra Militarium the Aeronautica . I have only seen a couple of books covering the fighter pilots of the Imperium so this is a nice change of pace. Well worth checking out for fans of Warhammer 40K
This is a little covered aspect of the Astra Militarium the Aeronautica . I have only seen a couple of books covering the fighter pilots of the Imperium so this is a nice change of pace. Well worth checking out for fans of Warhammer 40K
September 18, 2023
I had tried listening to this book when it was first released but gave up as I did not really care much about the aeronautica, having given it a second try I can only say what a fool I was first time! Excellent book
January 2, 2025
Excellent stuff! Easily one of my favorite Warhammer books and definitely one I would recommend to both newcomers and even non-Warhammer fans alike! A real page turner thanks to an interesting story, a fun setting, great characters and fun, punchy, dialogue.
May 20, 2023
That was so good.
June 10, 2023
Amazing book
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