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|book_number=22|title=[[#book22|''Shadows of Treachery'']]|alt_title={{nowrap|{{interp|Short story and novella compilation}}}}|author=Christian Dunn and Nick Kyme (editors)|publish_date={{ubl|li_style=text-align:center;|September 2012 (e-book, paperback)}}|aux1=409 pp.|aux2={{r|b22}}|line_color=novel}}
|book_number=22|title=[[#book22|''Shadows of Treachery'']]|alt_title={{nowrap|{{interp|Short story and novella compilation}}}}|author=Christian Dunn and Nick Kyme (editors)|publish_date={{ubl|li_style=text-align:center;|September 2012 (e-book, paperback)}}|aux1=409 pp.|aux2={{r|b22}}|line_color=novel}}
{{Book list
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|book_number=23|title=[[#book23|''Angel Exterminatus'']]|alt_title=''Flesh and iron''|author=Graham McNeilL|publish_date={{ubl|li_style=text-align:center;|November 2012 (audiobook)}}|aux1={{mdash}}|aux2={{r|b23}}|line_color=novel}}
|book_number=23|title=[[#book23|''Angel Exterminatus'']]|alt_title=''Flesh and iron''|author=Graham McNeill|publish_date={{ubl|li_style=text-align:center;|November 2012 (audiobook)}}|aux1={{mdash}}|aux2={{r|b23}}|line_color=novel}}
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Revision as of 21:42, 1 November 2012

This article is about the series of novels based on the fictional event. For other related literature, see Literature (in Horus Heresy).
Horus Heresy Novel Series
AuthorVarious (List of authors)
IllustratorVarious (List of artists)
Cover artist
  • Neil Roberts
  • Philip Sibbering
CountryUnited Kingdom
LanguageEnglish
GenreScience fantasy
PublisherBlack Library
Published2006–2012 (ongoing)[needs update]
Media type
No. of books22 (List of books)
Websitewww.thehorusheresy.com

The Horus Heresy Novel Series is an ongoing[needs update] series of science fantasy books that contain stories written by multiple authors. The books are published in several media by the Black Library, a Games Workshop division, with the first title released in 2006; as of late 2012 the Series consisted of 22 published volumes, with more in the pipeline.[needs update] Its subject matter is the Horus Heresy, a galaxy-spanning civil war occurring 10,000 years prior to the far-future setting of Games Workshop's Warhammer 40,000 tabletop miniatures wargame, and a major contributing factor to the dystopic environment of the game.

The Series has developed into a distinct and successful product line for the Black Library; titles have often appeared in bestseller lists, and overall the work has received critical approval despite reservations. It is an established, definitive component of Game Workshop's Horus Heresy sub-brand, and authoritative source material for the entire Warhammer 40,000 fictional universe and its continuing development.

Overview

Background and environment

The Series is a dark, far-future military space opera with a main cast of hundreds. Its foundation is the Horus Heresy, a cornerstone event of the dystopic Warhammer 40,000 universe; the fictional universe was originally created by Black Library parent company Games Workshop as the campaign setting for its related tabletop miniatures wargame.[1] The Horus Heresy is a short but all-encompassing conflict – a civil war that devastates and defines the Imperium of Man, the universe's nascent galactic empire.[2]

Although the Series takes full advantage of the underlying universe's wide scope, vast scale, and extreme time frames, it has developed a unique identity and "feel," attributed to the concept's distinct subject matter.[3][4] It expands previous material[5] over a growing number[needs update] of titles consisting of full-length novels and compilations of novellas or short stories, published in a variety of media. The work is mainly responsible for repositioning the conflict from roughly sketched mythology to future history within the Warhammer 40,000 narrative setting.[6]

Premise

The plot shares with other Black Library and Games Workshop material an underlying philosophical premise often encountered in the genre, namely the postulated interplay of primordial opposites Order and Chaos.[7] They are principally represented in the storyline by the Emperor of Mankind and the Chaos Gods respectively; the Horus Heresy is presented as a major chapter of their conflict.[8] The Series attempts a posture of disinterested observer, while describing the extremes of setting, characters, and actions with in-universe realism.[9]

Character-driven storyline

Overall, the Series storyline is character- rather than event-driven.[10] The stories employ classic themes of ambition, secrecy, intrigue, hubris, duty, and betrayal as they describe the motives and actions of the protagonists, many of whom are literally larger-than-life. In multiple narrative threads, the stories attempt to make sense of a multitude of interconnected persons and events that take place across great expanses of time and space.[11] In keeping with the character-based narrative, information about the bigger picture of the Heresy and its underlying premise is usually, though not exclusively, conveyed through characters' actions and thoughts; they are hampered by hidden motivations, shadowy or unknown opponents, incomplete knowledge, and their character flaws.[12]

Nonlinear narrative

After an opening trilogy of books, the novelisation is not strictly sequential, and the storyline may be presented in nonlinear fashion from book to book;[13] the stories may concern events that happen earlier or later than their position in the Series would suggest, or may include time periods already covered in other Series books. In the latter case of horizontal expansions, the revisited time periods may pertain to either original events or to already-covered events viewed from a different perspective – in general, the stories are written as third-person omniscient narratives.[14] Several stories include discrete subplots; stories may also center on pre-Heresy events, or they may take place before the Heresy begins.[15][16] The protagonists' limited perspective, the wide scope of the storyline, and the nonlinear story telling, have resulted in gaps within the published narrative, presumably to be filled in as the Series continues.[needs update]

Timelines

The Series stories are generally set during the c. 30,000 AD Horus Heresy period of the fictional universe, ten millennia prior to the c. 40,000 AD time frame employed by most Warhammer 40,000 material. The entire Heresy conflict is depicted as lasting less than a decade.[17]

The first title in the Series, originally published April 2006, is Horus Rising by Dan Abnett. It is also the first part in the opening trilogy of novels – a story arc completed with Book 3, published in October 2006 – that presents some of the background and causes of the Heresy, and describes the start of the conflict. The trilogy's focus is on Warmaster Horus, the principal antagonist, and covers about two years of the overall Heresy timeline; however most of this period elapses before the actual rebellion begins. The Series includes additional story arcs, while stories in compilation volumes act as prequels or sequels to several of its full-length novels.[18]

As of 2012 the Black Library was keeping to a steady stream of Series releases, offering several new titles per year. Because of the lateral and pre-Heresy expansions in addition to other nonlinear elements, by Book 22 (published September 2012), the titles' many narrative threads – spread over nearly 9,800 pages[19] – had only laid out background and early stages of the Heresy timeline, covering about three years of its nominal 10-year duration.[5]

Positioning

While earlier Horus Heresy products were marketed as game-related tie-ins, the Series like other Black Library publications, is also positioned as freestanding speculative fiction. It has become the publisher's flagship product, and a definitive canon element for the Horus Heresy and other aspects of the Warhammer 40,000 universe. It remains one of the latter's authoritative background sources, and is considered a major factor in the transformation of the Horus Heresy and the ancillary environment into marketable concepts and products.[2][20]

Creators and books

The authors and other contributors include veterans of the genre, and specifically of Warhammer 40,000-related material;[21] most have been regular Black Library or Games Workshop associates, and some have been involved in the Heresy concept since its creation. As is the case with other Horus Heresy and Warhammer 40,000 literature, the authors draw on diverse Mythologies and Histories, and frequently allude to fictional works or historical fact in their choices of character names, personas, and actions.[22] Despite the large number of authors and titles the Series is considered to have generally maintained cohesion and continuity.[23][24] The Series creators, including Games Workshop or Black Library intellectual property staff, reputedly collaborate on its development; the work frequently negotiates the specifications and boundaries of the underlying branded universe, which had already undergone a 19-year development of its own by the time the first title in the Series was published.[25]

Like other Black Library titles, the books' text-based editions include one of several "stock" unsigned single-page preambles that provide a very general background to the stories that follow. In addition, each full-length novel includes a listing of major characters in its front matter; reprints or editions of some books have included a broad in-universe chronology in back pages.[11] All books feature original cover art and one or more illustrations, reproduced across different media releases,[26] while audio editions of Series titles are voiced by a variety of professional actors.

Authors

  • Dan Abnett (novel, short story)
  • Ben Counter (novel)
  • Aaron Dembski-Bowden (novel, novella, short story)
  • Matt Farrer (short story)
  • John French (novella, short story)
  • Nick Kyme (novella, short story)
  • Mike Lee (novel, short story)
  • Graham McNeill (novel, novella, short story)
  • Anthony Reynolds (short story)
  • Rob Sanders (novella, short story)
  • Mitchell Scanlon (novel)
  • James Swallow (novel, short story)
  • Gav Thorpe (novel, novella, short story)
  • Chris Wraight (short story)

Contributors

Artists
  • Karl Richardson (illustration)
  • Neil Roberts (cover art, illustration – main Series artist)
  • Philip Sibbering (cover art, illustration)
  • Adrian Wood (illustration)
Audiobook narrators
  • Gareth Armstrong (unabridged novel, novella)
  • Sean Barrett (novella)
  • Martyn Ellis (abridged and unabridged novel, short story)
  • Jonathan Keeble (unabridged novel, novella, short story)
  • David Timpson (unabridged novel, novella)
Compilation editors
  • Christian Dunn (novella, short story)
  • Nick Kyme (novella, short story)
  • Lindsey Priestley (short story)

Titles

The following lists, current as of October 2012, pertain to original UK regular editions. For other editions and information see section Media and editions.

Published

Book Title Author Release date[27] Length[19] Ref[28]
1Horus Rising
The seeds of Heresy are sown		Dan Abnett
  • April 2006 (paperback)
  • November 2010 (e-book)
  • January 2011 (audiobook)
412 pp.[29]
2False Gods
The Heresy takes root		Graham McNeill
  • June 2006 (paperback)
  • December 2010 (e-book)
  • July 2011 (audiobook)
406 pp.[30]
3Galaxy in Flames
The Heresy revealed		Ben Counter
  • October 2006 (paperback)
  • December 2010 (e-book)
  • January 2012 (audiobook)
407 pp.[31]
4The Flight of the Eisenstein
The Heresy unfolds		James Swallow
  • March 2007 (paperback)
  • December 2010 (e-book)
407 pp.[32]
5Fulgrim
Visions of treachery		Graham McNeill
  • July 2007 (paperback)
  • December 2010 (e-book)
510 pp.[33]
6Descent of Angels
Loyalty and honour		Mitchel Scanlon
  • October 2007 (paperback)
  • December 2010 (e-book)
413 pp.[34]
7Legion
Secrets and lies		Dan Abnett
  • March 2008 (paperback)
  • December 2010 (e-book)
412 pp.[35]
8Battle for the Abyss
My brother, my enemy		Ben Counter
  • August 2008 (paperback)
  • December 2010 (e-book)
411 pp.[36]
9Mechanicum
War comes to Mars		Graham McNeill
  • December 2008 (paperback)
  • December 2010 (e-book)
415 pp.[37]
10Tales of Heresy
[Short story compilation]		Nick Kyme and Lindsey Priestley (editors)
  • April 2009 (paperback)
  • December 2010 (e-book)
412 pp.[38]
11Fallen Angels
Deceit and betrayal		Mike Lee
  • July 2009 (paperback)
  • December 2010 (e-book)
412 pp.[39]
12A Thousand Sons
All is dust...		Graham McNeill
  • March 2010 (paperback)
  • November 2010 (audiobook, e-book)
558 pp.[40]
13Nemesis
War within the shadows		James Swallow
  • August 2010 (paperback)
  • December 2010 (e-book)
507 pp.[41]
14The First Heretic
Fall to Chaos		Aaron Dembski-Bowden
  • November 2010 (e-book, paperback)
502 pp.[42]
15Prospero Burns
The Wolves unleashed		Dan Abnett
  • December 2010 (audiobook, e-book)
  • January 2011 (paperback)
444 pp.[16]
16Age of Darkness
[Short story compilation]		Christian Dunn (editor)
  • May 2011 (audiobook, e-book, paperback)
408 pp.[43]
17The Outcast Dead
The truth lies within		Graham McNeill
  • November 2011 (audiobook, e-book, paperback)
459 pp.[44]
18Deliverance Lost
Ghosts of Terra		Gav Thorpe
  • January 2012 (audiobook, e-book, paperback)
469 pp.[45]
19Know No Fear
The battle of Calth		Dan Abnett
  • February 2012 (audiobook, e-book)
  • March 2012 (paperback)
412 pp.[46]
20The Primarchs
[Novella compilation]		Christian Dunn (editor)
  • May 2012 (audiobook, e-book)
  • June 2012 (paperback)
440 pp.[47]
21Fear to Tread
The Angel falls		James Swallow
  • August 2012 (audiobook, e-book, paperback)
508 pp.[48]
22Shadows of Treachery
[Short story and novella compilation]		Christian Dunn and Nick Kyme (editors)
  • September 2012 (e-book, paperback)
409 pp.[49]
23Angel Exterminatus
Flesh and iron		Graham McNeill
  • November 2012 (audiobook)
—[50]

Announced

As of early November 2012 official announcement of further additions to the Series was pending.[51]

Select characters

Main article: List of Horus Heresy characters

The following, listed alphabetically, are among characters that appear in multiple books or are protagonists of at least one novel; the listing includes other characters that are of special significance to the Series storyline.[11]

  • Ezekyle Abaddon – First Captain, Luna Wolves Legion of Space Marines – In the opening trilogy (Books 1–3); also appears in other books
  • Ahzek Ahriman – Senior Corvidae (a precognition cult); Chief Librarian (combat warlock), Thousand Sons Legion – Books 12 and 15
  • The Cabal – Secret, non-Imperial anti-Chaos organization – Books 7 and 18. Special mention:
    • John Grammaticus – Human operative – Book 7
  • Lysimachus Cestus – Captain and Fleet Commander, Ultramarines Legion – Book 8
  • The Emperor of Mankind – Founder and Head of the Imperium of Man; initiator of the Great Crusade; "the Anathema" of Chaos – Appears in several books, including Books 9, 12 and 14
  • Erebus – First Chaplain (discipline, ideology, and morale officer), Word Bearers Legion; Dark Apostle ("Chaplain"-equivalent rank), Word Bearers of Chaos Undivided – A major character in several books, including Books 2, 14 and 19
  • Nathaniel Garro – Captain, Death Guard Legion – Books 3 and 4
  • Kasper Hawser – Terran (Earth-born) academic and Conservator (historian); Remembrancer (embedded civilian Crusade chronicler), 40th Expedition of the Great Crusade; skjald (oral historian), Space Wolves Legion – Book 15
  • Ingethel – Emissary of the Primordial Truth; "the Ascended," daemon of Chaos Undivided – Book 14
  • Ka'Bandha – Bloodthirster (Greater Daemon of Khorne, a Chaos god) – Book 21
  • Euphrati Keeler – Imagist (photographer); Remembrancer, 63rd Crusade Expedition; Evangelist of the [Lectitio Divinitatus] Error: {{Lang}}: text has italic markup (help) (a clandestine Emperor-worshipping cult); "the New Saint" – Books 1 through 4
  • Kelbor-Hal – Fabricator General of Mars – Books 8 and 9
  • Eristede Kell – Assassin-at-Marque (Imperial assassin under special licence), Officio Assassinorum – Book 13
  • Garviel Loken – Captain, Luna Wolves Legion – In the opening trilogy (Books 1–3)
  • Horus Lupercal – Primarch of the Luna Wolves Legion; Warmaster of the Imperium of Man; rebel-in-chief – Appears in several books, including the opening trilogy (Books 1–3)
  • Malcador ("the Sigillite") – Regent of Terra; First Lord of the Council (governing body of the Imperium) – Books 4 and 13; appears in several other books
  • Meros – Apothecary (combat medic), Blood Angels Legion; "the Red Angel" – Book 21
  • Branne Nev – Captain, Raven Guard Legion – Books 16 and 18
  • Kor Phaeron – First Captain, Word Bearers Legion; Black Cardinal (chief spiritual officer and high priest), Word Bearers of Chaos Undivided – Books 14 and 19
  • Alexis Polux – Captain, Imperial Fists Legion; Master of the Retribution Fleet – Book 22
  • The Primarchs – Biologically and psychically engineered progeny of the Emperor; Commanders of the Space Marine Legions – One or more (out of 20 total) may appear in every book of the Series.[11] Special mentions:
    • Alpharius-Omegon – Primarch of the Alpha Legion – Books 7, 18, and 20
    • Lorgar Aurelian – Primarch of the Word Bearers Legion; "Chosen of the Pantheon" of Chaos – Books 12 and 14; appears in several other books
    • Corvus Corax – Primarch of the Raven Guard Legion – Book 18; appears in other books
    • Rogal Dorn – Primarch of the Imperial Fists Legion – Books 4 and 22; appears in other books
    • Fulgrim – Primarch of the Emperor's Children Legion – Books 5 and 20; appears in several other books
    • Roboute Guilliman – Ruler of Ultramar (a frontier star system); Primarch of the Ultramarines Legion – Book 19
    • Lion El'Jonson – Commander of the Order (an organisation of knights); Primarch of the Dark Angels Legion – Books 6, 11, and 20
    • Magnus ("the Red") – Primarch of the Thousand Sons Legion – Books 12 and 15; appears in several other books
    • Ferrus Manus – Primarch of the Iron Hands Legion – Books 5 and 20
    • Sanguinius – Primarch of the Blood Angels Legion – Book 21; appears in other books
  • Jago Sevatarion ("Sevatar") – First Captain, Night Lords Legion – Book 22
  • Kyril Sindermann – Primary Iterator (spokesperson and propagandist) of the Imperial Truth; Remembrancer, 63rd Crusade Expedition; "the Saint's Apostle" – Books 1 through 4
  • Argel Tal – Captain, Word Bearers Legion – Book 14
  • Meer Erv Tawren – Magos of Analyticae (high-ranking information technology specialist), planet Calth Mechanicum – Book 19
  • Eldrad Ulthran – Senior Eldar Farseer (divination/sorcery adept and policy advisor) – Book 5
  • Constantin Valdor – Captain-General, Commander of the Custodian Guard (Imperial Bodyguard) – Books 10 and 13; appears in other books
  • Remus Ventanus – Captain, Ultramarines Legion – Books 16 and 19
  • Othere Wyrdmake – Rune Priest (Librarian-equivalent rank), Space Wolves Legion – Books 12 and 15
  • Zadkiel – Fleet Captain, Word Bearers of Chaos Undivided; Master of the Furious Abyss – Book 8
  • Kai Zulane – Imperial astropath (telepathic communications conduit), Ultramarines Legion – Book 17
  • Zahariel El'Zurias – Knight Supplicant of the Order; Librarian-in-training, Dark Angels Legion – Books 6 and 11

Synopsis

Story setting

Early in the 31st millennium AD, the Milky Way is in the throes of the Great Crusade. Originating from Terra (Earth), it is an interstellar crusade that claims the galaxy as the rightful domain of Humankind, and aims to reunite the multitude of scattered human space colonies under an "Imperium of Man." Organised in numerous Expeditions, the Crusade fields huge fleets and vast armies; at its forefront, led by the Primarchs, are Legions of Space Marines – transhuman super-warriors numbering in the millions. Over the course of two Terran centuries, the Crusade has reached star systems more than 50,000 light years away from its original staging point in the Sol (Solar) System, has assimilated millions of worlds into the Imperium, and has given Humankind a dominant position among the galaxy's species. Its grand mastermind is the "Emperor of Mankind," a mysterious, immortal superhuman of unknown origin who is said to be almost 40,000 years old when the Crusade starts.[52]

The Emperor, Founder and Head of the Imperium, is a being of literally towering charisma, prowess, conviction, and ability. He has declared an atheistic worldview – the Imperial Truth – based on science, reason, and human primacy.[53] However, he is also the most powerful human (or humanlike) psyker, and overall, one of the most formidable psychics in the galaxy; the Imperial Truth is at best a misrepresentation. The Emperor knows that in the Warp, the dark matter/dark energy-like parallel dimension that is the domain of thought, emotion, and consciousness, exist sentient vortices of concentrated, harmful energy. These malign immaterial entities forever seek to breach the material universe and subjugate or consume all life within it. They are the basis of many human and alien religions, and are known (by the few humans aware of their existence) collectively as Chaos, the Primordial Truth, or the Primordial Annihilator.[54]

Humankind's continuing biological and psycho-spiritual evolution includes the gradual development of widespread Warp-related psychic abilities that will make the species far more susceptible to Chaotic influence;[55] united under the Imperium of Man, shielded in the unbelief of Imperial Truth, and judiciously steered by the Emperor and his inner circle, the human race may yet avoid the Chaos-induced psychic corrosion and social entropy that would lead to its eventual annihilation. The transition of Humankind to a spiritually conscious species that is self-determining, and free of taint, may thus be accomplished. Chaos is aware of the Emperor's objectives; it has plans of its own to thwart them.[5][56]

Book 1 to Book 10

1. Horus Rising: the seeds of Heresy are sown

Horus Rising, the Series opener, starts its real time narrative in early 31st millennium AD, during the 203rd Terran year of the Great Crusade. It describes the rise to power of Horus Lupercal, Primarch of the Luna Wolves Legion of Space Marines (the 16th Legion of 20 formed originally), and the most versatile and favoured "son" of the Emperor. The Emperor has recently appointed him Warmaster (overall commander of Imperial military forces) and has left him in charge of the Crusade; he then returns to Terra, where in relative isolation is undertaking a secret project that even Horus is not privy to. Much of the focus of this novel is on Garviel Loken, Captain of the Luna Wolves' 10th Company. He becomes a member of the Mournival (an informal advisory body to Horus), and participates in Crusade campaigns against anti-Imperials and aliens. The story also hints at tensions in the nascent Imperium, exacerbated by the Emperor's absence and actions – these are common themes in following books.[57]

2. False Gods: the Heresy takes root
"False Gods" redirects here. For the Abrahamic doctrine, see False god.

False Gods picks up the tale a few weeks after the conclusion of Book 1 in the Series timeline, and tells the story of Horus' fall. In a complicated conspiracy implemented by Chaos allies, Horus is mortally wounded during a Crusade mission by an alien, Chaos-tainted weapon. In a desperate (and contrary to Imperial doctrine) action by his lieutenants to ensure his survival, he is taken to a temple that has a reputation for healing. However the temple is actually in service to Chaos, and both Horus' wound and its supposed healing makes him susceptible to Chaos' influence. He ultimately turns against his "father," the Emperor, and sets in motion the entire Heresy. This novel further highlights the institutional and personal tensions that accompany the Imperium's maturity as the preeminent power in the galaxy; they include rifts among Primarchs and among (and within) Legions. The tensions, and characters' flaws, are repeatedly and successfully manipulated by Chaos in this and following volumes. A parallel storyline, also present in several other books, involves the growing influence – within Crusade Expeditions and in the wider Imperium – of a forbidden religious cult, whose members worship the Emperor as god.[58]

3. Galaxy in Flames: the Heresy revealed

Galaxy in Flames continues the Heresy story, starting timewise shortly after the end of False Gods. It outlines the corrupted Warmaster's descent into madness, which will soon engender a brutal galaxy-wide civil war that abruptly ends the Great Crusade and subverts its objectives and ideals. Horus continues his secret planning of the rebellion in earnest, seeking (and finding) allies among the Primarchs, their Legions, and the Imperium's other organisations and personalities. The novel details the first open move of the Heresy, the culling of remaining Loyalists from the ranks of "Traitor" Legions and other rebel forces. This mainly takes place in the (fictional) Isstvan star system, specifically on and around the planet Isstvan III; Loyalist vessels come under treacherous rebel fire in the surrounding space, while on the planet's surface pro-Emperor elements of several rebel Space Marine Legions and Imperial Army units defiantly oppose the traitors.

4. Flight of the Eisenstein: the Heresy unfolds

Flight of the Eisenstein follows the Eisenstein, a space frigate of the Death Guard or 14th Legion, commanded by Battle-Captain Nathaniel Garro of the 7th Company – one of the few Commanders in the Traitor Legions that remain loyal to the Emperor. The story describes Eisenstein's escape from Isstvan III (see Galaxy in Flames above) and its perilous voyage across the galaxy as it attempts to reach Terra and raise the alarm over the developing rebellion. Garro and the others on board the vessel face suspicion and incredulity from Imperial authorities; apart from the inconceivable news of Horus' betrayal, the situation is complicated by the fact that many of the travellers on the Eisenstein now openly proclaim their heretical belief in the Emperor's divinity.[59]

5. Fulgrim: visions of treachery

Fulgrim centers on the eponymous Primarch of the 3rd Legion, the Emperor's Children, as both the flamboyant, perfectionist Commander and his Space Marines fall into Chaotic corruption around the time Horus meets the same fate (Book 2). As a result, a warning about Horus' imminent betrayal and the disaster that may follow – delivered by the alien Eldar to Fulgrim and his staff – goes unheeded. The Emperor's Children eventually become the "Chosen" of Slaanesh, a god of Chaos, while Fulgrim is slowly and unwittingly drawn into grotesque communion. Primarch Ferrus Manus and the Iron Hands Space Marines (the 10th Legion) also play a prominent role in the novel, and several other Primarchs and Legions make appearances. Described in passing is the pivotal Battle of Isstvan V (an Isstvan system planet), also known as the Dropsite Massacre. The battle fully reveals the scale and ferocity of the rebellion.[60]

6. Descent of Angels: loyalty and honour

Descent of Angels is a pre-Heresy story that concludes about 50 years before the start of that conflict. It introduces the Dark Angels Space Marines (the 1st Legion) and their Primarch, Lion El'Jonson. The story is mainly told from the point of view of Zahariel El'Zurias, a native of Caliban (a Warhammer 40,000 planet). Caliban is an isolated, low-technology planet that resembles a medieval fantasy world; the narrative details the fantasy-like setting, uniquely diverging from the Series norm. Zurias is introduced in the story as an Aspirant of the Order, an organisation of techno-barbarian knights. The first half of the novel is set on Caliban and covers the final battles of the Order under the leadership of Jonson, the future Primarch. The book's second half describes Caliban's unification with the Imperium of Man as well as the actions of the Dark Angels during the early years of the Great Crusade. In this part of the story, Zurias, selected as candidate Space Marine, is accepted as a Dark Angel Neophyte. A future schism within the Legion is also intimated in this section of the book.[61]

7. Legion: secrets and lies

Legion features the Alpha Legion, the 20th and last to be formed Space Marine Legion, known as the most secretive, subtle, and inscrutable of them all; its deepest secret is the binary nature of its Primarch, who comprises the twins Alpharius and Omegon. The book also highlights the Imperium's mainstream military force, the Imperial Army, featuring several male and female officers and their units. Another important factor in the novel is the Cabal, a mysterious, ancient interspecies organisation opposed to Chaos – one of the main characters is a human Cabal operative, John Grammaticus. The story takes place over roughly a 6-month period, about two years before the Heresy starts; it describes the events that eventually lead Alpharius-Omegon to support Horus.

8. Battle for the Abyss: my brother, my enemy

Battle for the Abyss is concerned with the lead-up to the rebels' invasion of Ultramar, the in-universe remote home star system of the unshakably Loyalist 13th Legion, the Ultramarines (Book 19). Early in the Heresy, the Traitor Word Bearers Legion is tasked with organising and leading the invasion; they plan to use an immense, secretly commissioned warship, the Furious Abyss, to spearhead the surprise attack. The vessel, commanded by Fleet Captain Zadkiel, launches from shipyards near Jupiter around the time of the events on Isstvan III (Book 3), and sets course for Macragge, Ultramar's capital world. Leading the cast of Loyalist protagonists is Cestus, Fleet Commander and Captain of the 7th Company of the Ultramarines. They become aware of the powerful capital ship's true purpose, and engage in long pursuit; they will seek to prevent the Furius Abyss from participating in the invasion and from reaching Macragge.

9. Mechanicum: war comes to Mars

Mechanicum is the first book in the Series not to focus on Primarchs or Space Marines. Instead, it is about the civil war on Mars, which takes place around the time of the start of the wider Heresy conflict. The planet is the seat of the Mechanicum, a Terra-allied technocracy responsible for the design, construction, and maintenance of all Imperial military and civilian technology. Planning his imminent campaign against the Imperium, Horus obtains the secret allegiance of highly placed Mechanicum Adepts, including that of Kelbor-Hal, Fabricator General of Mars and the technocracy's leader. They plot, and eventually carry out, a coup d'état in order to eliminate those on Mars who are loyal to the alliance with Terra and to the Emperor. The ensuing war will determine which side in the struggle will receive the Mechanicum's crucial support.[62][63]

10. Tales of Heresy

Tales of Heresy is a collection of short stories that introduces or expands storyline perspectives and actors such as the Custodian Guard (the Imperial Bodyguard) and the Sisters of Silence, a classified Imperial organisation of warrior-nuns originally introduced in Book 4; most stories take place around the time of the Heresy. It includes two stories that take place on Terra, one of which is happening much earlier than the Heresy and adds to the background regarding the Imperial Truth; another entry in the compilation is an origin story describing the rise to Primarch of Angron (one of the Emperor's "sons"), who takes command of the 12th Legion, the World Eaters. Several stories relate to full-length novels in the Series; the book contains seven stories by various authors.[64]

Book 11 to Book 20

11. Fallen Angels: deceit and betrayal

Fallen Angels continues the Dark Angels tale begun in Book 6, Descent of Angels. The novel starts around the time of Book 6's conclusion, about 50 years before the Heresy, but forwards to just about the time of the Heresy's beginning in the opening chapters. It tells two stories: one concerns the effort of Primarch Lion El'Jonson and a small group of Dark Angels to deny a forge world (a planet devoted to manufacturing, especially of weapons) to Horus' forces; the other is the story of Luther (Lion El'Jonson's second), Zahariel El'Zurias (by now a full Space Marine), and a Dark Angels contingent sent back to Caliban, the Dark Angels Legion home world. They get involved in the fight against a growing insurgency that seeks to free the planet from under the Imperium's thumb.

12. A Thousand Sons: all is dust...

A Thousand Sons is the story of Primarch Magnus and the Thousand Sons Space Marines, the 15th Legion; it mainly takes place before the Heresy begins. Following a reprimand by the Emperor for dabbling in sorcery, Magnus and his Legion secretly continue to study the forbidden subjects. Then, around the time of Horus' corruption (Book 2), Magnus learns through sorcery of his brother's impending betrayal. He tries – again through sorcery – to warn the Emperor, believing that the gravity of the news justifies his disobedience. However, he overreaches with his powers and damages the vital and secret project the Emperor is undertaking (Book 1), endangering the safety of Terra itself in the process. The Emperor is enraged and orders Leman Russ, Primarch of the 6th Legion (the Space Wolves), to Prospero, the Thousand Sons Legion's in-Series home world. The Space Wolves, accompanied by other Imperial forces, are to bring Magnus and his Legion to Terra to account for themselves.[65]

13. Nemesis: war within the shadows

Nemesis is set about two years after the events on Isstvan V described in Book 5, Fulgrim. It is a look at the war behind the war, the covert operations undertaken by the opposing sides in order to influence the visible conflict. Specifically, it deals with a plan by a secret Imperial organisation, the Officio Assassinorum, to eliminate Horus; an "Execution Force" consisting of operatives from all of the Officio's disciplines, and led by top-rated sniper Eristede Kell, is tasked with the mission. There have been several previous unsuccessful attempts against Horus' life, and this gives a high-ranking officer of the Traitor Word Bearers Legion the idea to field a nemesis weapon of his own: a highly specialised assassin, who is to be used in an audacious scheme to kill the Emperor.[66]

14. The First Heretic: fall to Chaos

The First Heretic details the fall to Chaos of Primarch Lorgar and the 17th Space Marine Legion, the Word Bearers. Decades before the start of the Horus Heresy they become heretics relative to the Imperial Truth by introducing religious worship. This results in public and humiliating censure of Lorgar and the entire assembled Legion, by the Emperor himself. The despairing Lorgar is subsequently swayed by two of his most trusted lieutenants, who are in secret allegiance with Chaos; eventually both Primarch and Legion covertly embrace (and promote) the Primordial Truth, many years before Horus' corruption. The story is largely told from the point of view of Argel Tal, a Captain of the Word Bearers, and spans several decades, starting 43 years before the events on Isstvan V (Book 5) and concluding around the time the Word Bearers are on their way to assault Calth (Book 19).[67]

15. Prospero Burns: the Wolves unleashed

Prospero Burns is part of the story arc of Book 12, however it follows a different but related timeline. The story begins more than a century before the Space Wolves-led mission to Prospero and the concurrent start of the Heresy. It is presented from the point of view of Kasper Hawser, formerly a noted Terran academic who becomes a Crusade Remembrancer, and then the Oral Historian or skjald of the 3rd Company of the Space Wolves Legion. On the surface it is his story; the important understory concerns the long-term machinations of Chaos, whose aim is the destruction of both Space Wolves and Thousand Sons. Chaos attempts to exploit the weaknesses of the Primarchs and their Legions in order to pit them against each other – the ultimate result is the confrontation on Prospero. While this confrontation is taking place, Horus' previously covert rebellion becomes visible (Book 3). The novel also adds background to Horus' fall and to the planning of the Heresy campaign by Chaos and its forces.

16. Age of Darkness

Age of Darkness is a compilation of nine short stories by various authors.[68] They take place during the seven-year period between the Dropsite Massacre on Isstvan V (Book 5), and the conclusion of Horus' campaign. The stories present various facets of the unfolding conflict, as suspicion, insecurity, and paranoia spread through the galaxy on the wake of the Great Betrayal. Subjects include: a Primarch prepares for the end of the Imperium; a Traitor PSYOP topples an Imperial planet; an unusual diplomatic contest will decide which side will be chosen by a world on the fence; a non-combatant may be a rebel agent or a herald of unpalatable truths for the Imperium; a Loyalist Space Marine in a Traitor Legion holds his own against his erstwhile brothers. Several of the included stories are linked through continuity; some are also prequels or sequels to stories in other Series books.[18][69]

17. The Outcast Dead: the truth lies within

The Outcast Dead is the first novel-length story in the Series to take place almost entirely on Terra. It covers a relatively short period, starting several months before Magnus' catastrophic psychic visit at the Imperial Palace (Book 12), and concluding several months after this event. The unauthorised visit is central to the story, as apart from damaging the Emperor's top secret project and the planet's defense, it massively disrupts Terra's long-range communications infrastructure. The ensuing isolation and confusion cause indecision and delays for the Imperium. The story's main character is Kai Zulane, previously a gifted Imperial astropath attached to the Ultramarines Legion. He unwittingly becomes the keeper of a secret that could decide the victor in the developing galactic civil war. "The Outcast Dead" are characters in the story: a small, disparate group of Space Marines suspected as traitors, with whom Zulane falls in during the second half of the book. In the end, the secret kept by Zulane is revealed to the one person it is actually intended for, and has implications for the Heresy's conclusion and the future course of the Imperium of Man.[24][70]

18. Deliverance Lost: ghosts of Terra

Deliverance Lost is mainly concerned with the actions of Primarch Corvus Corax and his Space Marine Command, the 19th Legion (also known as the Raven Guard), during the year following the Dropsite Massacre (Book 5). However, operatives and the Primarch of the Alpha Legion (Book 7) play a prominent role. The story starts about 3 months after the Dropsite Massacre, with the unexpected rescue of Corax and the remnants of his Legion (at less than 5% strength, due to casualties in that battle). Arriving at Terra a few months after the events described in The Outcast Dead have taken place, Corax convinces the Emperor to impart to him the knowledge and material that may accelerate the rebuilding of his Legion. The second part of the novel describes the effort to reconstitute the Raven Guard, undertaken on Deliverance (its home world in Warhammer 40,000 fiction), and the pursuit of opposite objectives by the Alpha Legion. The novel features the reappearance of the Cabal (Book 7), and of other well-known characters; it also adds information about the developing strategies and subterfuge applied by the opposing sides, including reasons for Horus' timetable and for the Emperor's actions during the initial stages of the Heresy.

19. Know No Fear: the battle of Calth

Know No Fear documents the rebels' surprise assault on Calth, an ascendant Ultramar system world. It is planned and led by the Traitor Word Bearers Legion, now fully and openly committed to the spread of the Primordial Truth. The narrative starts close to where the timelines of Book 8 and Book 14 converge (in their respective conclusions), with the invasion force en route to, or near the planet – in the Heresy chronology this is taking place shortly before the Isstvan III events described in Galaxy in Flames. The rebel mission has aims beyond just delivering a crippling blow to the Ultramarines Legion and their home system; its objectives may affect the entire Heresy campaign. The story tracks the Calth assault from its opening covert phases, and the actions of several characters. Unaware of the developing rebellion and the Word Bearers' true role and allegiance, Primarch Roboute Guilliman and his Ultramarines are unprepared for the underhand invasion: it is total, bloody war, with ritualistic undertones, scorched earth tactics, decisive use of technology, and the considerable involvement of Chaos; the inconceivable treachery and its implications forever change the Loyalists' view of reality.[71]

20. The Primarchs

The Primarchs is a compilation of four novellas by different authors, each story starring one of the "sons" of the Emperor.[72] The novellas further develop these characters, who make multiple appearances in the Series: following the Dropsite Massacre (Book 5), Fulgrim, perversely empowered by his own corruption, reveals his true nature and future plans to top officers of his compromised Legion; during a Great Crusade campaign against the enigmatic Eldar, Ferrus Manus, already beset by unsettling dreams, is subjected by alien sorcerers to stark, portendous visions and warnings about his future and role in the soon to be revealed Heresy; with Horus' rebellion in full swing after Isstvan V, a suspicious and isolated Lion El'Jonson accepts the newly revealed realities of the Warp and decides on an independent course of action for the Dark Angels in the unfolding conflict; around the same time, and plotting a typically indecipherable course in the expanding war, the twinned Primarch of the Alpha Legion is involved in a unique counterintelligence operation that extends the Legion's customary deceptions inwards.[73]

Book 21 and above

21. Fear to Tread: the Angel falls

Fear to Tread describes an operation by the forces of Chaos that is meant to turn Primarch Sanguinius and the 9th Space Marine Legion, the so-called Blood Angels, to their cause. To succeed, Chaos plans to take advantage of a genetic flaw in Sanguinius' and the Legion's DNA. As the Heresy is getting under way, the outwardly still loyal Warmaster orders the entire 9th Legion and their unsuspecting Primarch to a remote star system. There they find themselves isolated and ambushed, fighting a new kind of war – against Chaos entities and daemons – designed by their opponents to trigger the Legion's flaw. The Chaotic plan almost succeeds; yet conflicting agendas among the anti-Imperial protagonists as well as the fortitude and unorthodox tactics of quick-to-adapt Blood Angels narrowly result in Imperial victory. In the meantime Horus' rebellion erupts openly and the Loyalists suffer catastrophic losses in the Dropsite Massacre (Book 5). Sanguinius and his Legion, now fully aware of the great betrayal and the reality of Chaos, race to the defense of Terra and the Emperor while buffeted by unprecedented navigational difficulties; it is hinted that these are related to the traitors' action at Calth (Book 19).[74]

22. Shadows of Treachery

Shadows of Treachery is a compilation that collects five short stories by Series authors previously published in limited editions, art books, or other formats; it also contains two new novellas: one is mainly about an all-out close-quarters space battle, between an Imperial "Retribution Fleet" sent to punish Horus following the events of Isstvan III (Book 3) and the Traitor fleet that ambushes it; the other deals with the aftermath of another naval engagement in space that cripples the Traitor Night Lords Legion.[75] The narratives of all stories fill gaps in the Series or add further details about the Heresy and its actors; they cover periods that range from several decades before the conflict to around the time frame of Book 18 (one short story is a prequel to that novel). Most of the stories involve the 7th or 8th Space Marine Legions, respectively the Imperial Fists and Night Lords, and their Primarchs Rogal Dorn and Konrad Curze. Other Legions and Primarchs are also featured, while one short story takes place on Mars and illuminates an aspect of the Traitor Mechanicum's conspiracy.[76]

23. Angel Exterminatus: flesh and iron

Angel Exterminatus is the next installment in the Horus Heresy saga. "Premium" and e-audio editions were published October–November 2012; the regular text editions are expected early 2013.

Media and editions

The Series is published in several countries and languages, and most of its titles have been released in multiple media: in print (paperback and hardcover editions); as e-books; and as either abridged or unabridged audiobooks and e-audiobooks (respectively, in compact disc and audio file formats). Starting November 2010, titles have often been released simultaneously in multiple media; also since then, digital or audio releases have occasionally preceded print versions of the same title (see table "Published" above). Stories in Series compilations have been published individually as e-books, and as MP3 or CD "audio shorts."[77]

Series stories have appeared in whole or in part in other Black Library publications, sometimes before publication of the corresponding Series books; prepublications have included stand-alone releases of compilation stories.[78] "Prerelease" copies of Series volumes have been regularly offered months before official publication, in Games Workshop- and Black Library-sponsored events such as the various Games Days.

There have been a number of special editions and bundles published in a variety of media; these include the "Horus Heresy Collections," which mix editions and media of the same or different titles.

The works' cover art has been separately released, in poster and other formats.[77][79]

"Premium" editions

Starting in October 2012 with Angel Exterminatus (Book 23), all Series titles are scheduled to also be released in special "Premium" editions: "Premium Hardback" (print) and "Enhanced Ebook" (digital), which include additional material and artwork; these versions are published several months before the regular edition counterparts. The earlier catalogue of the Series is also republished in this edition, again beggining October 2012 with the opening trilogy of novels (Horus Rising, False Gods, and Galaxy in Flames).[80][79]

Other special editions (selections)

  • Horus Rising – Dan Abnett. "5th Anniversary Edition" to mark the 5-year publishing history of the Series. With "'titanium blue' foil treatment on the cover" and it includes "an exclusive new introduction by author Dan Abnett".[81][57] – April 2011[82]
  • Limited Edition Horus Heresy Audio Boxset – Dan Abnett, Ben Counter, Graham McNeill. Contains the abridged audio versions of the Series' opening trilogy narrated by Martyn Ellis. Includes an exclusive bonus audio CD containing the short story "Little Horus" by Abnett, from the Age of Darkness compilation, also read by Ellis. Edition limited to 2,000 copies worldwide[83] – November 2011[84]
  • Xmas 2011 Horus Heresy eBundle – Series authors. E-book edition of the first 17 Books in the Series. One of several Series bundles, this was offered as a "Christmas 2011 Special" – November 2011[85]

Reception

As of October 2012, the Series as a whole was generally enjoying both popular and critical approval, with corresponding commercial success; the publisher's favourable sales performance has been credited to the Series' popularity.[86] The considerable Warhammer 40,000 fan base embraced the work, and helped propel the product's sales: titles have consistently appeared at or near the top of UK and US science fiction charts, have occupied high positions in the UK Nielsen BookScan lists, and since early 2010 have often charted in The New York Times Bestseller List for mass market paperbacks.

Reviews

Series books have been regularly reviewed; reviews have typically appeared in genre-related media and enthusiast or specialist websites.[87] Critical reception of individual titles has been mixed, with reviewers occasionally commenting on perceived differences (in style or substance) among authors, and in the handling of individual stories by the same author;[88] yet the general tone of reviews has been mostly positive. Although the Series overall has been viewed favourably, there have been complaints about its length, the multitude of characters and narrative threads, and the timeline jumps or repetitions caused by the nonlinear storytelling.[89]

Reviewers have commented on constraints that the underlying universe, and storyline continuity, may impose on authors. Additionally, as the Series has gradually acquired a backstory and terminology of its own, the accessibility of individual stories to new or casual readers has been questioned.[90]

Fandom

With few exceptions, fans of the gaming and fiction aspects of the Warhammer 40,000 universe embraced the detailed, canonical exposition of its major myth that the Series represents. As the work progressed, they have echoed the praise or complaints of reviewers; fans have also criticised the mounting monetary cost of following Heresy-related literature in general, and the Series in particular.

As of Book 22 (October 2012), the overall reaction remained positive. Warhammer 40,000 fandom was engaged in in-depth discussions of Series books, of the work's impact on the larger fictional universe, and of its possible future direction. The Series was followed in social media outlets, in wargaming- and science fiction-related blogs, and in online discussion sites, both those dedicated to Games Workshop products and others of a more general nature. Apart from story-and-character development, the fans' areas of interest have included the Books' art, the rendering of the stories in different media, and the authors' craftsmanship.

The discussions have touched less common subjects, such as the product's packaging and the merits of special editions. Comprehensive reviews of individual titles have been persistently posted, while detailed, knowledgeable analyses of the Series as a whole have also appeared; perceived discrepancies, plot holes, continuities (and discontinuities), allusions, and plot hints are readily pointed out and expounded on. In addition, Series-related fan fiction and artwork has appeared on a regular basis, while news or rumours regarding future releases are closely scrutinised.[91]

Sales

Early in its publishing history, the Series became a sales success in its category. Horus Rising by Dan Abnett, the opening title, set the pace shortly after its release, topping Locus magazine's "Locus Bestsellers: Gaming-Related" list of August 2006; as of Book 20, practically every title in the Series had achieved the same or similar performance on this chart.[92]

Legion by Abnett, and Battle for the Abyss by Ben Counter, were listed in Nielsen BookScan's list of top-20 fictional works by small publishers (defined as a publisher whose sales made up less than 0.3% of the Total Consumer Market during the previous year) for the year ending on 23 August 2008; the books appeared in eighth and sixteenth place respectively.[93] The next published title, Mechanicum by Graham McNeill, entered The Bookseller's "Top 20 Fiction Heatseekers" chart of 5 December 2008, shortly after its release, at number 10.[94]

A Thousand Sons by McNeill was released in February 2010, and also arrived at number 22 on The New York Times Bestseller List, the first ever novel on the Black Library imprint to do so. Nemesis by James Swallow followed, reaching number 26 on the List in August 2010. The First Heretic, by Aaron Dembski-Bowden, reached number 28 in the weekly chart in November 2010 and stayed on the List for a second week, at number 33. Abnett's Prospero Burns reached number 16 on the List in January 2011; this title also topped a science fiction and fantasy book chart published by The Times (London) in March of the same year. The compilation Age of Darkness, edited by Christian Dunn, also entered The New York Times Best Sellers List, in May 2011, at number 31. Book 19, Know No Fear, again by Dan Abnett, continued the trend: it appeared in the List at number 21 in March 2012. It was followed by the next Series title, The Primarchs, a compilation edited by Dunn, which occupied position 29 during the week of 17 June 2012. In September 2012 Fear to Tread by Swallow entered The New York Times Best Sellers List at number 13, at the time the highest entry on that chart for a Series novel; the book remained on the List the week following.[95][96]

Between the late–1980s introduction of the Horus Heresy and the start of this Series publication in 2006, Games Workshop and affiliates released Horus Heresy-branded products that expanded the concept's standing as Warhammer 40,000 background material.[5] The release of such works, which include literature independent of this Series, continued as of 2012; the works may relate to it as prequels, sequels, or expansions of its stories.

Pre-Series Horus Heresy literature may have been superseded or rendered obsolete, while other such literature may no longer be authoritative even as it remains in Horus Heresy and Warhammer 40,000 canons;[25] still other non-Series Horus Heresy literature has been eventually incorporated into the work.[75]

A significant development was the 2012 initial release of the Horus Heresy miniatures wargame expansion, which repositioned the Heresy as a foreground element within the Warhammer 40,000 gaming system – while highlighting the importance of the Horus Heresy to Games Workshop's product lineup and the related universe. The expansion is reputedly developed in coordination with the Novel Series, and includes new material and information about the Horus Heresy and the fictional universe; it joins the Series as an authoritative source of Heresy material and Warhammer 40,000 background.[97]

The Black Library and Games Workshop have also released novels, game rulebooks, and other products that while not branded or classified as Horus Heresy, are directly related to story arcs or events described in the Series.

Selections

  • Horus Heresy: Collected Visions – Alan Merrett (writer), John Blanche (conceptual art), Nick Kyme and Matt Ralphs (editors). Omnibus edition of the four-volume Horus Heresy Art Book Series (2004–2006); it outlines the entire Horus Heresy in art and prose. As of October 2012 it had been partially superseded, amended, or expanded by the continuing Novel Series and the newer Rulebook Series (see below). As of the same date, it remained the most comprehensive, largely canonical official roadmap for the complete Heresy storyline – June 2007[98]
  • Battle of the Fang – Chris Wraight. Warhammer 40,000 novel in the Space Marine Battles Series. The story takes place a thousand years after the Horus Heresy, and is a continuation of the arc presented in Books 12 (A Thousand Sons), and 15 (Prospero Burns) – June 2011[99]
  • Aurelian – Aaron Dembski-Bowden. Subtitled The Eye stares back, this "Horus Heresy Novella" is part of a story arc along with The First Heretic, Book 14 in the Series – October 2011[100]
  • Betrayal – Alan Bligh (writer), and Forge World art and design staff. Book One in the Horus Heresy Rulebook Series. This series is part of the stand-alone Horus Heresy expansion for the Warhammer 40,000 game system; the expansion is produced by Games Workshop modelling subsidiary Forge World. Betrayal is centered on the events of Isstvan III, also described in Galaxy in Flames, Book 3 of the Novel Series – September 2012[101]

Notes

  1. ^ McNish 2011, "[T]he dark heart of the series' premise...."; Rudden 2012, ¶ 3. "[T]hat nod-and-wink-to-crushing-doom sense the best Heresy novels have." For the concept's origins see § Horus Heresy § Introduction. For items related to the wider fictional universe, see Warhammer 40,000 spin-offs. Unless otherwise specified, "Series" refers to the "Horus Heresy Novel Series" throughout this article.
  2. ^ a b Flory 2007, 2011, ¶ 2; Fortune 2012, ¶ 2; Gronli 2008a, ¶ 2. "[The Series] is a futuristic multi-installment retelling of the epic poem Paradise Lost"; Horus Heresy Online "The Characters", "The Story" (both from the Series' official website); Dembski-Bowden 2012, § "Author's Note", p. 9. "[A]s more of the Horus Heresy comes to light in the ... [Series], the lore of the Warhammer 40,000 universe undergoes subtle shifts in scope." (By a Horus Heresy and Warhammer 40,000 author).
  3. ^ NT (Neil Tringham) 2012, § "Frame". "[N]arrative frames can be strikingly detailed and evocative, as in the extensive universe constructed to support Warhammer 40,000 (1987)."
  4. ^ Bosier 2010, ¶ 6. "[T]he feel of the Horus Heresy books is entirely different than those of ... [other Warhammer 40,000] books because the subject matter is inherently different"; Flory 2007, "[The books] require little or no background knowledge to fully appreciate"; however, see Rudden (2012, final paragraph). According to this reviewer, individual titles may be progressively less accessible to readers who come late to the Series.
  5. ^ a b c d The audience has a partially omniscient point-of-view, since a number of significant events, the general outline, and the ending of the Horus Heresy are known in advance. Story elements have been published by Games Workshop starting 1988 (Merrett 2007, p. 6 [not numbered]); a comprehensive outline, including the conclusion, was published in the four-volume Horus Heresy Art Book Series between May 2004 and July 2006. This Series was republished in a 2007 omnibus edition (Merrett 2007). See also Horus Heresy: Collected Visions (in § Related works), and § Horus Heresy § Expansion and continuity.
  6. ^ Flory 2007, "'The Horus Heresy' ... has been a well known part of the Warhammer canon for a number of years.... [The Series is] detailing exactly what happened."; Sobel 2010, ¶ 6. "[B]ringing to life ... characters that have long occupied the role of legends in the Warhammer 40,000 mythos"; Rudden 2012, ¶ 4. "[T]his is the start, this is how things were meant to be."
  7. ^ Porush 1991; Stableford 2006, p. 80, col. 1. "Order and Chaos are frequently substituted for Good and Evil in the conceptual frameworks of twentieth-century commodified fantasy,..."; however see Baxter (2003), "The nature of 'Chaos' confused us all, I think.... '"Chaos" and "evil" are not synonymous' .... [T]he GW [Games Workshop] designers had an ambition to do the Chaos concept justice ..." (the author was briefly associated with Games Workshop, pre-Series); also see Fantasy tropes and conventions.
  8. ^ Merrett 2007, pp. 9, 27, 34, 54, 109, 324; McNeill 2006, p. 246; Abnett & 2012a-3, preamble.
  9. ^ Gronli 2008b, ¶ 4. "[T]he books came across as more hard hitting than some of the video games that have been released .... The action was a lot more hectic. The characters were more realistic. There also happened to be a lot more honesty in the books ..."; Rhoads 2011b, ¶ 9. "The thematic tone is pitch perfect."; the Horus Heresy became fully established as a concept upon its inclusion as background of wargames whose alignment is a matter of player choice (Johnson 1988, § "The Imperium: The Horus Heresy"). See also § "Description" in Adeptus Titanicus at BoardGameGeek.
  10. ^ Sobel 2010, ¶¶ 5, 6. "[T]he characters ... are vividly portrayed and ... bring something unique ... to the storyline.... [The Series] ... takes characters from very black and white stories of good and evil ... and shows you the many shades of grey ...". From a review of Book 12, A Thousand Sons. In contrast Book 19, Know No Fear, is written around the event timeline. Though it develops several characters, it assumes more of a bird's-eye view to the action (Fortune 2012, ¶¶ 2–3. "Several of these novels focus on the motivations and reasons behind a galaxy spanning war, whereas others simply deliver cracking tales of warfare. Know No Fear sits in the latter category").
  11. ^ a b c d Horus Heresy Novel Series 2006–2012; Horus Heresy Online & "The Characters"; § "Timeline" – in reprints or editions of Counter 2006 and Swallow 2007 (back matter). Contains brief descriptions of distinct Warhammer 40,000 time periods, from its first millennium ("M1") up to the books' time frame. Unless otherwise specified, all references to print versions of Series titles apply to UK 1st edition paperback only, as reported by the British National Bibliography project (BNB 2012) or in publisher-related sources such as the webpages included here.
  12. ^ Rhoads 2011b, ¶ 4. "[T]he central story of the Heresy is a very human one. It is a tragedy, one caused by such everyday emotions as jealousy and pride."; Sobel 2010, ¶ 6. "[T]he very human tragedies at the centre of those stories."
  13. ^ Wolff 2009, p. 1. "[The Series does] not adhere to a rigorously linear storyline between volumes. The vastness of the Warhammer 40K [40,000] universe ... offers more opportunities to non-traditional storytelling. In addition, it is easier to drag out a series when it is not the standard linear storyline."
  14. ^ One short story (Wraight 2011a), mixes first-person-limited and third-person narrative threads; French 2012, a novella, does the same; another short story is written entirely in first person: McNeill, Graham (2012a) [originally published 2011]. "Death of a Silversmith". In Dunn, Kyme & 2012-2 (ed.). pp. 269–284. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Missing or empty |title= (help); Unknown parameter |separator= ignored (help)CS1 maint: multiple names: editors list (link) CS1 maint: numeric names: editors list (link)
  15. ^ Wolff 2011, ¶ 4.
  16. ^ a b Abnett 2010c-1, (e-audiobook), 2010c-2, (e-book), 2011b, (paperback).
  17. ^ Horus Heresy Online & "The Story", ¶ 1.
  18. ^ a b McNeill, Graham (2011a). "Rules of Engagement". In Dunn & 2011-3 (ed.). pp. 9–63. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Missing or empty |title= (help)CS1 maint: multiple names: editors list (link) CS1 maint: numeric names: editors list (link) (although published before Book 19, Know No Fear, it mainly deals with that novel's aftermath); Wraight, Chris (2011a). "Rebirth". In Dunn & 2011-3 (ed.). pp. 203–246. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Missing or empty |title= (help)CS1 maint: multiple names: editors list (link) CS1 maint: numeric names: editors list (link) (sequel to Prospero Burns); Thorpe, Gav (2011). "The Face of Treachery". In Dunn & 2011-3 (ed.). pp. 247–276. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Missing or empty |title= (help)CS1 maint: multiple names: editors list (link) CS1 maint: numeric names: editors list (link) (prequel to Deliverance Lost).
  19. ^ a b Mass market paperback, approx. 17 cm × 10.6 cm (6.7 in × 4.2 in). Sources: Amazon UK (book size); British National Bibliography (BNB 2012) (no. of pages).
  20. ^ The Black Library had briefly expanded into Horus Heresy merchandising, a project that was abandoned in favor of the core product (Black Library Online & "Frequently Asked Questions", the publisher's website); the Horus Heresy tabletop miniatures wargame, introduced 2012, builds on the success of the Series (see § Related works); however as of October 2012 www.thehorusheresy.com, a website published by Games Workshop that concentrates on the Series, had been last updated January 2011 and covered the Series only up to Book 15, Prospero Burns.
  21. ^ Rhoads 2011b, ¶ 1; Black Library Online & "Authors".
  22. ^ "Horus" and elements of the entire Heresy storyline recall the Ancient Egyptian deity Horus and related mythologies. A detail is the Series depiction of the "Eye of Terra/Eye of Horus" (Abnett 2006, p. 114) which is part of the heraldry of Warmaster Horus' own Legion, compare with Eye of Horus; "Erebus", a Chaos (Warhammer) ally, is named after Erebus, a Chaos (cosmogony) entity in Greek mythology; "Lion El'Jonson" is the Primarch of the "Dark Angels" Legion, alluding to 19th-century English poet Lionel Johnson and his poem "The Dark Angel"; "Kasper Hawser" refers to Kaspar Hauser, the mysterious 19th-century German youth. In the Series, Hawser is also known as "Ahmad Ibn Rustah" (Abnett 2011b, § "Dramatis Personae"), a further allusion: Ahmad ibn Rustah; see also "Abaddon" vs. Abaddon; "Ahriman" vs. Ahriman, etc.; for an unofficial listing of many other devices and tropes reputedly utilised in Horus Heresy literature see Template:Tvtropes.
  23. ^ Flory 2007; Rhoads 2011a, ¶ 2; TV Tropes & "Horus Heresy", ¶ "Depending on the Writer". "Impressively averted for a series that so far has had seven different authors." Retrieved 2012-03-16. [Note information regarding the number of authors in the preceding quote has been superseded. See also Template:Tvtropes].
  24. ^ a b Reputed continuity problems introduced in the Series by story elements in The Outcast Dead have been the subject of discussion among the Warhammer 40,000 fan community (Antigonos et al. 2011); see also Dembski-Bowden (2012, § "Author's Note", p. 9).
  25. ^ a b Rundle 2010, p. 2. Retrieved 2012-09-21. From an interview with Series author Dan Abnett; Farley 2010. Interview with Neil Roberts, the Series' main artist; Rhoads 2010, ¶ 1. From a reviewer's essay; for a creator's perspective on working within the overall Warhammer environment see Baxter (2003).
  26. ^ Roberts et al. 2006–2012; the publisher often separately previews the books' art, a subject of interest within the Warhammer 40,000 fan community (Perrin et al. 2011); see The Black Library Team (2012a) for a publisher preview of Series artwork; Farley (2010) for an interview with main Series artist Neil Roberts.
  27. ^ "Paperback" refers to mass market paperback; "audiobook" may refer to either disc or audio file format (e-audiobook) release. Sources: official Series website (in § External links); Black Library website (Black Library Online & "Horus Heresy"); British National Bibliography (BNB 2012).
  28. ^ See note under § References.
  29. ^ Abnett 2006, (paperback), 2010a, (e-book), 2011a, (audiobook).
  30. ^ McNeill 2006, (paperback), 2010a, (e-book), 2011b-1, (audiobook), 2011b-2, (e-audiobook).
  31. ^ Counter 2006, (paperback), 2010a, (e-book), 2012, (audiobook).
  32. ^ Swallow 2007, (paperback), 2010a, (e-book).
  33. ^ McNeill 2007, (paperback), 2010b, (e-book).
  34. ^ Scanlon 2007, (paperback), 2010, (e-book).
  35. ^ Abnett 2008, (paperback), 2010b, (e-book).
  36. ^ Counter 2008, (paperback), 2010b, (e-book).
  37. ^ McNeill 2008, (paperback), 2010c, (e-book).
  38. ^ Kyme & Priestley 2009, (paperback), 2010, (e-book).
  39. ^ Lee 2009, (paperback), 2010, (e-book).
  40. ^ McNeill 2010d-1, (paperback), 2010d-2, (e-audiobook), 2010d-3, (e-book).
  41. ^ Swallow 2010b-1, (paperback), 2010b-2, (e-book).
  42. ^ Dembski-Bowden 2010-1, (e-book), 2010-2, (paperback).
  43. ^ Dunn 2011-1, (e-audiobook), 2011-2, (e-book), 2011-3, (paperback).
  44. ^ McNeill 2011c-1, (e-audiobook), 2011c-2, (e-book), 2011c-3, (paperback).
  45. ^ Thorpe 2012a-1, (e-audiobook), 2012a-2, (e-book), 2012a-3, (paperback).
  46. ^ Abnett 2012a-1, (e-audiobook), 2012a-2, (e-book), 2012a-3, (paperback).
  47. ^ Dunn 2012-1, (e-audiobook), 2012-2, (e-book), 2012-3, (paperback).
  48. ^ Swallow 2012-1, (e-audiobook), 2012-2, (e-book), 2012-3, (paperback).
  49. ^ Dunn & Kyme 2012-1, (e-book), 2012-2, (paperback).
  50. ^ McNeill & 2012b-3, (e-audiobook).
  51. ^ Black Library Online & "Horus Heresy: Coming Soon".
  52. ^ Merrett 2007, pp. 9, 12, 15, 46; Abnett 2006, preamble, pp. 46–47; Ansell & Priestley 1990, pp. 174, 175.
  53. ^ Abnett 2006, pp. 59–63; Kyme & Priestley 2009, p. 160; McNeill, Graham (2009). "The Last Church". In Kyme & Priestley 2009 (ed.). pp. 323–373. {{cite book}}: Invalid |ref=harv (help); Missing or empty |title= (help); Unknown parameter |separator= ignored (help)CS1 maint: multiple names: editors list (link) CS1 maint: numeric names: editors list (link)}}.
  54. ^ Merrett 2007, pp. 34, 133, 322, 324; McNeill & 2010d-1, p. 348; Dembski-Bowden & 2010-2, pp. 187, 191–192; Thorpe & 2012a-3, pp. 52, 166.
  55. ^ Games Workshop Design Studio 2008, p. 112.
  56. ^ Thorpe & 2012a-3, preamble.
  57. ^ a b Review of the "5th Anniversary Edition": Rhoads 2011b (positive).
  58. ^ Review: Gronli 2008a (mixed).
  59. ^ Review: Rhoads 2012 (mostly positive).
  60. ^ a b In some editions, Book 5 is subtitled The last Phoenix, see Fulgrim: the last phoenix in libraries (WorldCat catalog). Retrieved 2012-02-07; the subtitle Visions of treachery is also the title of Horus Heresy Art Book Series: Book 3
  61. ^ Review: Wolff 2009 (neutral).
  62. ^ a b In some editions, Book 9 is subtitled Knowledge is power, see Mechanicum: [knowledge is power] in libraries (WorldCat catalog). Retrieved 2012-02-07.
  63. ^ Review: Wolff 2011 (positive).
  64. ^ "Blood Games" by Dan Abnett; "Wolf at the Door" by Mike Lee; "Scions of the Storm" by Anthony Reynolds; "The Voice" by James Swallow; "Call of the Lion" by Gav Thorpe; "The Last Church" by Graham McNeill; and "After Desh’ea" by Matt Farrer (Kyme & Priestley 2009, § "Contents").
  65. ^ Review: Sobel 2010 (positive).
  66. ^ Review: Gronli 2010 (mixed).
  67. ^ Review: Rudden 2012 (positive).
  68. ^ "Rules of Engagement" by Graham McNeill; "Liar's Due" by James Swallow; "Forgotten Sons" by Nick Kyme; "The Last Remembrancer" by John French; "Rebirth" by Chris Wraight; "The Face of Treachery" by Gav Thorpe; "Little Horus" by Dan Abnett; "The Iron Within" by Rob Sanders; and "Savage Weapons" by Aaron Dembski-Bowden (Dunn & 2011-1, § "Contents"). One story, "The Iron Within," was prepublished in Hammer and Bolter, a Black Library e-magazine, in February 2011 (Sanders 2011); "The Last Remembrancer" was included in the same magazine's May 2011 issue, published simultaneously with the Series book (French 2011).
  69. ^ Review: Flory 2011 (positive).
  70. ^ Review: Dean 2011 (mixed).
  71. ^ Review: Fortune 2012 (positive).
  72. ^ "The Reflection Crack'd" by Graham McNeill; "Feat of Iron" by Nick Kyme; "The Lion" by Gav Thorpe; and "The Serpent Beneath" by Rob Sanders (Dunn & 2012-3, § "Contents"). Each story includes a list of characters in its own front matter. "Feat of Iron" complements a non-Series Horus Heresy novella by the same author (Kyme 2011b); "The Lion" was prepublished in digital format, as a Hammer and Bolter serial (Thorpe 2012b).
  73. ^ Review: Dean 2012 (negative).
  74. ^ Review: Sharps 2012 (positive).
  75. ^ a b Short stories: "The Dark King", "The Kaban Project", and "Death of a Silversmith" by Graham McNeil; "The Lightning Tower" by Dan Abnett; "Raven's Flight" by Gav Thorpe (these stories were previously published; "Raven's Flight", a prequel to Book 18, is an adaptation of an original "Horus Heresy Audio Drama", the first such entry in this Series). Novellas: "The Crimson Fist" by John French (prepublished as stand-alone e-book, see French (2012)); "The Prince of Crows", an original story by Aaron Dembski-Bowden (Dunn, Kyme & 2012-2, edition notice [p. 6 (not numbered)], § "Contents").
  76. ^ Review: Fergus 2012 (positive).
  77. ^ a b Black Library Online & "Horus Heresy" (publisher webpage lists different editions and media). English-language imprints or editions of individual novels may have alternate subtitles;[60][62] releases in English may also have variations in punctuation or capitalization of title or subtitle. Some compilation stories that have been published individually: Black Library Online & "Ebooks: Horus Heresy" (includes listing of short story e-books); Kyme 2011a (downloadable "audio short"); Abnett et al. 2011 (audiobook bundle includes a short story extra on separate disc media). Series books have been published in several languages, see non-English editions in libraries (Worldcat catalog). Retrieved 2012-03-18. Note publication details of Series titles may not be presented uniformly in official publisher materials, including discrepancies in edition details between the official Series website (in § External links) and the Black Library webpages listed here.
  78. ^ Examples: French 2011. Short story from the Age of Darkness compilation which was simultaneously published (in text and audio) in Black Library's Hammer and Bolter e-magazine; Thorpe 2012b. A novella republished in The Primarchs compilation. It was serialized in Hammer and Bolter between February and April 2012; French 2012. Novella from the Shadows of Treachery compilation prepublished as an e-book in July 2012.
  79. ^ a b As of 2012, all digital media editions, the books' art, and the majority of special editions and bundles were offered exclusively through the publisher's online or physical outlets (Black Library Online & FAQ); this included the "Horus Heresy Collections" (Black Library Online & "Horus Heresy Collections"), and the titles' "Premium Hardback Edition," which was offered at a substantially higher price point over the mass market paperback edition (The Black Library Team 2012b; Black Library Online & "Horus Heresy" has price information).
  80. ^ Book 23 "Premium" editions: McNeill 2012b-1, (print), 2012b-2, (e-book). Book 1 republished in same: Abnett 2012b-1, (print), 2012b-2, (e-book).
  81. ^ The Black Library Team 2011 (publisher webpage).
  82. ^ Abnett 2011c.
  83. ^ Black Library Online & "Horus Heresy Audio Boxset".
  84. ^ Abnett et al. 2011.
  85. ^ Series authors 2011.
  86. ^ Stone 2011, "Special [mention] also go[es] to ... Black Library (thanks to the popularity of its Horus Heresy series) for growing [its] sales in a tough market."
  87. ^ Select reviews: Blogcritics & "Horus Heresy Articles" (multiple books, mixed); Flory 2007 (Series overview as of Book 4, positive); Fortune 2012 (positive); Gronli 2008b (overview as of Book 9, mixed); Series review essays can be found at Rhoads (2010, 2011a); reviewers have specifically commented on the books' cover art (Gronli 2008a, ¶ 4; Rhoads 2011b, ¶ 1. "[L]avish cover art ...").
  88. ^ Bosier 2010, ¶ 3. "[T]he sense of majesty and glory is palpable in the hands of the more talented authors"; Gronli 2008b, ¶ 2; Wolff 2011, ¶¶ 1, 2.
  89. ^ Critics' praise: Flory 2011, ¶ 2. "There have been a few little blips along the way ... but on the whole, the 'Horus Heresy' series has consistently demonstrated why it’s the flagship series for the Black Library" – and critics' complaint: Dean 2011, ¶ 1. "Here we go again,... the [Horus Heresy] plot has been drawn out like over-stretched chewing gum"; Sobel 2010, ¶ 5. "Certain reviewers have criticised the glut of personalities ... and in some cases my experience has resonated with this critique"; Wolff 2011, ¶ 2. "[T]he Horus Heresy has had its ups ... and downs...."; Flory 2012, ¶ 7. "[The Series] ... has already been proven to jump backwards and forwards along its own timeline and certain events ... have already been alluded to."
  90. ^ Postulated creative constraints: Rhoads (2010, ¶ 1); Dean (2011, ¶ 4); fans vs. casual readers: Fortune (2012, ¶ 4); Rudden (2012, final paragraph).
  91. ^ An apparent minority among fans has considered the Series publication as unnecessary tampering with the universe's legends, or has disagreed with the shifting of the focus to an earlier period; elsewhere, see Connor MacLeod et al. (2012) for a fan-authored, detailed analysis of Series titles, and Perrin et al. (2011) for a discussion of its art; by using published details and minutiae, fans have created unofficial works that fill gaps in Series coverage, such as a partial "Horus Heresy timeline" (isilvra 2011). The related discussion includes comments on continuity, as does Antigonos et al. 2011; a discussion of future Series releases is at Masshuu et al. (2010). Other examples (among many) of fan-based resources: DakkaDakka - Wargaming and Warhammer 40k Forums, Articles and Gallery, see in forum "40K Background" for Series discussions; Heresy-Online - Warhammer 40k and Fantasy Forums for painting tips, news & tactics!, includes forum "Black Library Fiction" with subforum "BL [Black Library] Book Reviews," featuring reviews of Series titles; Warhammer 40k, Fantasy, Wargames & Miniatures News: Bell of Lost Souls, the § "BoLS Lounge" of this expansive Warhammer-focused website includes the active "Warhammer 40K Background" forum, which hosts frequent discussions on the Series. All the above are among fan sites that also host fan-authored background articles, fictional works, or wargaming rulesets related to or inspired by the Series.
  92. ^ Locus Online & "Locus Bestsellers".
  93. ^ Stone 2008.
  94. ^ Bookseller 2008.
  95. ^ Eureka 2011, "[Ranking by] [s]ales, January 2011 Source: Nielsen.com".
  96. ^ At the New York Times Bestseller List (New York Times & "Best Sellers"):
  97. ^ Bickham 2012 (from a Games Workshop monthly publication).
  98. ^ Merrett 2007.
  99. ^ Wraight 2011b.
  100. ^ Dembski-Bowden 2011. Originally offered as a "Collectors Edition" web exclusive.
  101. ^ Bligh 2012.

References

  • The Horus Heresy – Official website, may be inactive as of October 2012; includes some non-Series Horus Heresy material

Template:Warhammer 40,000 Novels

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