This book shows that the foundation for their distrust and questionable actions was laid at the very beginning. Why you should read it: The Dark Angels are a complicated bunch. What it’s about: Events of the impending Heresy are juxtaposed with Lion El’Johnson’s life on Caliban, from his arrival to ascension to planetary hero. It’s the book that will have you saying “$#%^-ing Lorgar.” Next Steps Descent of Angels – Mitchel Scanlon The book is thick with dramatic irony, and beautiful descriptions of Lorgar’s descent into madness and Chaos. Why you should read it: This is the book that starts the entire heresy, despite being the 18th book published. As he licks his wounds, his adopted father Kor Phaeron and Erebus have answers to his questions. What it’s about: After creating a religion that worships the Emperor as a God, Lorgar is publicly shamed by his father. It’s profoundly sad to watch space marines wrestle with the horrors that are starting, and to not know who to trust. Why you should read it: This is where the events of the Horus Heresy books get really interesting, watching legions fracture amongst themselves as some stay loyal, and some turn traitor.

They must get to Terra to warn of the coming rebellion.

What it’s about: Takes place just after the events of Istvaan III, featuring a Death Guard group that remains loyal to the Emperor. Flight of the Eisenstein – James SwallowĪmazon| Black Library | Audible You get to see so many legendary faces, and see a true glimpse at how different the world of 30k really was. You get to see the space marines at a time when everyone is friendly, they have more robust personalities, and are utterly clueless about the warp’s dangers.

Why you should read it: It’s an outstanding book, first and foremost. Horus has just been declared Warmaster by the Emperor. What it’s about: This is the book that starts it all. Amazon| Black Library | Audibleįaction: Luna Wolves (aka Sons of Horus, aka The Black Legion) There is a great deal of dramatic irony that is lost upon the reader without a firm grip on what has been lost. It’s a time of hope, of prosperity, and of unknown evils. Why do I recommend reading the Heresy books after WH40k? Because the world of the Horus Heresy is intrinsically different from that of 40k. There are more than 50 books in the HH series, so it can be a daunting task. Now that you have a good grasp on the WH40k universe because of our handy-dandy guide (If you haven’t read any WH40k books, stop! Go check out the guide!), you may be wondering where to jump into the Horus Heresy.

Horus heresy books in order