Warhammer 40,000 (also known as Warhammer 40K), is a science-fiction setting set in the distant future. It is a dark time of war and conflict, of xenophobia, heresies and many foes who would extinguish the light of humanity in the galaxy. Originally a table-top strategy game, the lore behind this game has become more and more popular over the years, developing into full-blown novels and sci-fi series in their own right.
A variety of authors have come to the table to write for the Black Library, who publishes WH40K literature, bringing different takes to the varied forces that exist in the universe of WH40K. Each writer holds a certain style of writing and level of skill. Given that they are both bound and enriched by a collectively created yet specific 'canon', one cannot expect things to go far beyond certain limits, they show clear differences in level of skill and talent.
As a fan of these books and with a slowly growing collection that now numbers over twenty individual novels, with omnibuses counting for the separate novels that compose of them, I have taken it upon myself to make a brief review of what lie within my humble library.
My scoring system is as follows:
1/5 - Poorly written, do not buy this. Read at own risk.
2/5 - Average writing, could avoid buying this. Suggested for niche fans-only or collectors of story-universe.
3/5 - Good writing, generally genre-friendly or if fans of the story universe in general.
4/5 - Great writing, can be recommended to readers who occasionally peruse the genre.
5/5 - Excellent writing, can be recommended to most readers, genre-crossing.
Dawn of War (Omnibus, by C.S. Goto) - 2/5
The Dawn of War Omnibus is based off the popular video game. That said, its delivery and adaptation of the video game's story and campaign leaves much to be desired. It is not particularly endearing, as its plot follows the game's campaign almost verbatim. It is my opinion that using the game primarily as a skeleton would've worked better, if the writer had devoted more effort into using 'off-camera' scenes and character development beyond the confines of what was shown in the game. Not a book for those who aren't fans of the genre or game itself.
The Grey Knights (Omnibus, by Ben Counter) - 3/5
The Grey Knights Omnibus is a fine example of action and struggle in the WH40k Universe. It chronicles the efforts of the Grey Knights, a specialized organization dedicated to fighting the daemons of the Warp. While not particularly groundbreaking or anything, the pieces are solid, and fairly well-written. In particular they show some of the inner workings of the Grey Knights and how they operate, as well as the scope of their responsibility. It is a look into the eons-old war of the Grey Knights and the Imperium against the machinations of Chaos. A good read for WH40k fan, and in particular any Space Marine fan.
The Space Wolves (Omnibus 1&2, by William King & Lee Lightner) - 3.5/5
The Space Wolves are one of the more distinct Space Marine Chapters in WH40K. The books by Bill King are great Space Marine pieces, showing a varied selection of settings and challenges for the hero Ragnar Blackmane to face. Lee Lightner's successor books do not disappoint, something which is difficult to accomplish. Lightner retains the feel of rugged, multifaceted conflicts that Ragnar faces in King's books. It's a great start for someone who wants to learn about the Space Marines and shows their interaction with the Imperium of Man at large, with glimpses of the politics and social environment that often gets lost amidst the war and action.
The Ultramarines (Omnibus, by Graham McNeil) - 3/5
The Ultramarines novels are very solid, well-rounded pieces of work. They depict the conflicts experienced by seasoned Ultramarines, thrown into conflicts that normally do not afflict the typical Space Marine. The novels take us to the fight against greatly different opponents in different settings, illustrating the rise, fall and struggle to return by heroes. It is an good series to follow if one wishes to know simultaneously both how the Space Marines operate and the immense scope of the enemies they and the Imperium face.
The Blood Angels (Omnibus, James Swallow) - 3/5
The Blood Angels duology is a great look at the insides of a Space Marine chapter. It shows the grays of the universe that constantly assault the heroes, and how they turn to black. Rather than being focused on an epic movement, the novels are a little more focused on the actual characters' relationship-byplay and internal conflicts against very real threats to their souls and life. A good start to discovering the threats to the Space Marines from a more internal perspective.
With that said, I've finished giving quick reviews of my Omnibus books. Next time around I'll focus on those books I have individually purchased, separate from 'omnibus collections'. Until then: the Emperor protects!
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