They must get to Terra to warn of the coming rebellion. 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. It’s profoundly sad to watch space marines wrestle with the horrors that are starting, and to not know who to trust. What it’s about: After creating a religion that worships the Emperor as a God, Lorgar is publicly shamed by his father. As he licks his wounds, his adopted father Kor Phaeron and Erebus have answers to his questions. Why you should read it: This is the book that starts the entire heresy, despite being the 18th book published. 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. 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. Why you should read it: The Dark Angels are a complicated bunch. This book shows that the foundation for their distrust and questionable actions was laid at the very beginning.

What it’s about: Two years before the heresy begins, the Alpha Legion meets a mysterious group called The Cabal. They have information that may help them determine the correct path in the horrible days to come. Why you should read it: The mysterious Alpha Legion has rarely been looked at in either the WH40k or HH series, so it’s a fun look at a fun chapter. Alpharius Omegon is a complicated primarch with a complicated loyalty.

What it’s about: Taking place before and during the heresy, Magnus the Red struggles to give up his dabbling in sorcery, despite warning from the Emperor. Why you should read it: There is an undeniable tragedy to Magnus’s actions and his legion. It’s depressing to see a son wanting to help his sons and his father. Did Magnus do anything wrong? Yes, literally everything. Committing to the Heresy Prospero Burns – Dan Abnett Is it understandable why he did wrong things? Absolutely, after this book. What it’s about: The events of Prospero Burns take place before and during the heresy, told mostly through the eyes of a rembrancer who has a secret. Leman Russ marches to Prospero to put his brother in his place. Why you should read it: This book is as fun as it is horribly tragic.

You get to see both the Space Wolves and Leman Russ from the point of view of an outsider, which cements their legacy as Space Vikings.

Horus heresy books in order