Book Review: Storm of Iron

Storm of Iron by Graham McNeill
Release Date: July 2002
Publisher: Black Library
Audience: Everyone/Mature
Pages: 288
Buy the Book: Amazon
Book Rating: 5/5









This book was the first entry in the Warhammer 40,000 (or simply 40k) universe that I read and, man, did it get me hooked on the books from Black Library and Warhammer 40k in general (though I have as of yet to look into the tabletop game, as I have neither the time, money, or inclination). And, from a few people I have talked to and perusing the internet, this book seems to be the first novel many people read in the 40k series, much like Ninja Scroll for anime (at least, 10-15 years ago anyway before the massive influx of anime on western shores).

The book follows a group of Iron Warriors laying siege to a Imperial stronghold to access the treasure inside that may shift the war in Chaos' favor and create a force that is the equal of the Imperial Space Marines. The story follows a number of higher ups in the Iron Warriors as they A. vie with Imperial forces for control of the stronghold and B. vie with one another for control of the campaign.

This book is long, bloody, full of battles and explosions, and a good read. I think McNeill does a really good job introducing the various elements of both sides (the Imperial forces and Chaos forces), the weapons they use, and their general socio-political organization. McNeill, while he focuses on the Iron Warriors, he also gives a decent amount of space for the Imperial officers who are protecting the stronghold. I really can't say too much more without ruining anything but this was a pivotal novel in the 40k universe, is extremely well written, and is highly recommended. If you like war and battles and some intrigue, you will like this book.