Best Horus Heresy Books of 2023

• Best Overall: Betrayer (24) (Horus Heresy)
• Best Budget: Saturnine (4) (The Horus Heresy: Siege of Terra)
• Best Value: Garro: Knight of Grey (The Horus Heresy)
• Editor's Choise: Mortarion: The Pale King (15) (The Horus Heresy: Primarchs)

• Best Charles Spurgeon Books
• The Best Eve Babitz Books
• The Best Td Jakes Books
• Best Elmore Leonard Books
• Best Wendell Berry Books 

#1: The Flight of the Eisenstein (The Horus Heresy Book 4)

Specs:

• Title: The Flight of the Eisenstein (The Horus Heresy Book 4)
• Author: James Swallow
• Format: Kindle Edition
• Pages: 416
• Publisher: Black Library (March 27, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1844164596
• ISBN-13: 978-1844164592

What we like:

• The Flight of the Eisenstein is a compelling addition to the Horus Heresy series. The writing by James Swallow is exceptional, and the story is fast-paced and action-packed, with plenty of plot twists to keep the reader interested. The characters are well-developed, and their interactions are plausible and nuanced. The world-building is also remarkable, as the author creates a compelling and intricate universe.
• The complexity and depth of this book's themes is one of its most notable characteristics. The narrative explores loyalty, sacrifice, and the human condition in a manner that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. The novel also poses intriguing questions regarding the nature of power and the corrupting influence of ambition, making it a compelling read for genre enthusiasts.

What we don't like:

• There are very few issues with The Flight of the Eisenstein. Nonetheless, some readers may find the pacing a bit uneven, with some sections feeling rushed and others dragging a bit. In addition, some readers may find the conclusion too abrupt, as it leaves unanswered questions and loose ends.

Our Verdict:

The Flight of the Eisenstein is an excellent addition to the Horus Heresy series and a must-read for science fiction and military fiction fans. The themes explored in the book are both complex and thought-provoking, and James Swallow's writing is of the highest caliber. Even though there are a few minor flaws, they do not detract from the overall quality of the book, which is thrilling and captivating from beginning to end. Highly suggested.

 #2: Saturnine (4) (The Horus Heresy: Siege of Terra)

Specs:

• Title: Saturnine (The Horus Heresy: Siege of Terra, Book 4)
• Author: Dan Abnett
• Format: Paperback
• Pages: 800
• Publisher: Black Library; Reprint edition (March 1, 2022)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1789994624
• ISBN-13: 978-1789994629

What we like:

• Saturnine is a compelling addition to the Horus Heresy series and a must-read for science fiction and military fiction enthusiasts. The exceptional writing of Dan Abnett vividly brings to life the characters and the world they inhabit. The plot is well-organized and brisk, with ample action and intrigue to keep the reader interested.
• The depth and complexity of the characters is one of the book's most outstanding features. Each character is well-drawn and fully realized, with distinct motivations, flaws, and qualities. The nuanced and believable interactions between the characters add depth and dimension to the story. In addition, Abnett does a superb job of examining the psychological toll of war and its effect on the characters, rendering the book emotionally resonant and thought-provoking.

What we don't like:

• Saturnine is largely devoid of flaws. However, some readers may find the sheer number of characters and plotlines to be a bit overwhelming at times, and it may require some effort to keep track of everything. In addition, some readers may find the conclusion unsatisfying because it leaves many questions unanswered and sets up the next book in the series.

Our Verdict:

Saturnine is an excellent addition to the Horus Heresy series and a must-read for science fiction and military fiction fans. The writing by Dan Abnett is exceptional, the characters are well-drawn and fully realized, and the book's themes are both complex and thought-provoking. Even though there are a few minor flaws, they do not detract from the overall quality of the book, which is thrilling and captivating from beginning to end. Highly suggested.

 #3: Horus Rising (The Horus Heresy Book 1)

Specs:

• Title: Horus Rising (The Horus Heresy Book 1)
• Author: Dan Abnett
• Format: Kindle Edition
• Pages: 416
• Publisher: Black Library (April 25, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1844162941
• ISBN-13: 978-1844162949

What we like:

• Horus Rising is a must-read for science fiction and military fiction fans, as it is an excellent beginning to the Horus Heresy series. With vivid descriptions and well-crafted dialogue, Dan Abnett's writing brings the characters and the world they inhabit to life. The plot is engaging and well-structured, with plenty of action and intrigue to keep the reader interested.
• The depth and complexity of the characters is one of the book's most outstanding features. Abnett does an outstanding job of exploring the motivations, flaws, and strengths of each character, rendering them fully realized and believable. The well-written and nuanced interactions between the characters add depth and complexity to the story.

What we don't like:

• Horus Rising is extremely lacking in flaws. Nonetheless, some readers may find the pacing to be a bit slow at times, especially in the first few chapters. In addition, some readers may find the emphasis on military strategy and tactics a bit too detailed and technical.

Our Verdict:

Overall, Horus Rising is an outstanding introduction to the Horus Heresy series and a must-read for science fiction and military fiction fans. The writing by Dan Abnett is exceptional, the characters are well-drawn and fully realized, and the book's themes are both complex and thought-provoking. Even though there are a few minor flaws, they do not detract from the overall quality of the book, which is thrilling and captivating from beginning to end. Highly suggested.

 #4: False Gods (The Horus Heresy Book 2)

Specs:

• Title: False Gods (The Horus Heresy Book 2)
• Author: Graham McNeill
• Format: Kindle Edition
• Pages: 416
• Publisher: Black Library (June 7, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1849707440
• ISBN-13: 978-1849707442

What we like:

• False Gods is a compelling continuation of the Horus Heresy series that science fiction and military fiction fans must read. Graham McNeill's writing is outstanding, with well-crafted dialogue and vivid descriptions that bring to life the characters and the world they inhabit. The plot is engaging and well-structured, with plenty of action and intrigue to keep the reader interested.
• The depth and complexity of the characters is one of the book's most outstanding features. McNeill does an outstanding job exploring the motivations, flaws, and strengths of each character, rendering them fully realized and believable. The well-written and nuanced interactions between the characters add depth and complexity to the story.

What we don't like:

• There are few reasons to criticize False Gods. However, some readers may find the pace to be somewhat slow at times, especially in the middle of the book. In addition, some readers may find the emphasis on religion and faith to be a bit excessive.

Our Verdict:

False Gods is a must-read for fans of science fiction and military fiction, as it is an excellent continuation of the Horus Heresy series. Graham McNeill's prose is excellent, the characters are well-developed and fully realized, and the book's themes are both intricate and thought-provoking. Even though there are a few minor flaws, they do not detract from the overall quality of the book, which is thrilling and captivating from beginning to end. Highly suggested.

 #5: Galaxy in Flames (The Horus Heresy Book 3)

Specs:

• Title: Galaxy in Flames (The Horus Heresy Book 3)
• Author: Ben Counter
• Format: Kindle Edition
• Pages: 416
• Publisher: Black Library (June 7, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1844163700
• ISBN-13: 978-1844163700

What we like:

• Galaxy in Flames is an exciting and action-packed Horus Heresy installment. Ben Counter's writing is excellent, with tense action sequences and vivid descriptions that bring the Warhammer 40k universe to life. The plot is well-organized and intriguing, with numerous twists and turns that keep the reader on the edge of his or her seat.
• The meticulousness of the worldbuilding is one of the book's most outstanding qualities. Counter does an outstanding job of exploring the various factions and cultures of the Warhammer 40k universe, rendering them distinct and well-realized. In addition to being well-written and exciting, the action sequences feature numerous high-stakes battles and heroic sacrifices.

What we don't like:

• While Galaxy in Flames has few flaws, some readers may find the pacing inconsistent at times. In addition, some readers may find the book's level of violence and gore to be a bit excessive for their tastes, as it is quite gritty and brutal.

Our Verdict:

Galaxy in Flames is a must-read for fans of Warhammer 40,000 and military fiction. Ben Counter's prose is of the highest quality, his world-building is superb, and his action sequences are exciting and well-executed. Galaxy in Flames may not be for everyone due to its graphic violence and gore, but those who can stomach it will find it to be an exciting and engaging read. Highly suggested.

• Start with Horus Rising: The first book in the series, Horus Rising, sets the stage for the entire Horus Heresy storyline. It introduces the major characters and events that will shape the series.

• Read in Publication Order: The Horus Heresy books were not written in chronological order, so reading them in publication order is recommended. This will ensure that you follow the storyline as it was originally intended.

• Consider Anthologies: The Horus Heresy series includes several anthologies that feature short stories by different authors. These can be a great way to get a taste of different authors' writing styles and explore different parts of the Horus Heresy universe.

• Pay Attention to Reviews: There are a lot of Horus Heresy books out there, so it's important to pay attention to reviews and recommendations from other readers. Look for books that are highly rated and have positive reviews.

• Consider Audiobooks: Many of the Horus Heresy books are available as audiobooks, which can be a great option for those who prefer to listen to books while commuting or working out.

Do I need prior knowledge of Warhammer 40,000 in order to read the Horus Heresy books?

While familiarity with Warhammer 40,000 is not required to enjoy the Horus Heresy books, a basic understanding of the universe and its factions will enhance your comprehension of the series.

What is the length of the Horus Heresy series?

The Horus Heresy series contains more than fifty books, making it a substantial series.

Can the Horus Heresy books be read out of order?

Although it is possible to read the Horus Heresy books out of order, it is recommended to read them in publication order in order to follow the intended storyline.

Are the Horus Heresy novels suitable for young adults?

The Horus Heresy books are intended for mature audiences and contain violence, gore, and mature subject matter.

Who are some of the series' most prominent characters?

The Horus Heresy series features a large cast of characters, but Horus, the Emperor, Rogal Dorn, Leman Russ, and Sanguinius are among the most prominent.

The science fiction universe of the Horus Heresy series has captivated the imaginations of many readers. It is recommended that, when purchasing Horus Heresy books, you begin with Horus Rising and read in publication order, consider anthologies, pay attention to reviews, and consider audiobooks. With these tips in mind, readers can explore the universe of The Horus Heresy and appreciate the epic tale of treachery, loyalty, and war.