Spikey Bits » Warhammer 40k » All The Best Warhammer 40k Books To Begin Reading With

Get the best Warhammer 40k books, including Dawn of Fire and Dark Imperium, and stay current with the latest Warhammer stories and fiction through these essential reads.

All The Best Warhammer 40k Stories & Books to Begin Reading

Click any of the links below to jump to the info you need the most, or just dig in from the beginning.

• Introduction to Warhammer 40k Books, Stories, and Fiction
• Best Warhammer 40k Books to Start With
• Exploring Warhammer 40k Fiction Through Different Factions
• Best Warhammer 40k Books for Advanced Readers
• Where to Find the Best Warhammer 40k Books
• Warhammer 40k Books to Stay Updated With Current Lore

Introduction to Warhammer 40k Books, Stories, Fiction & Lore

Welcome to the wild galaxy of Warhammer 40k, where humanity struggles to survive, and the stars are full of danger—everything from ancient robotic empires to interdimensional demons. Warhammer 40k fiction has earned its place as one of the most enthralling universes out there, blending brutal warfare, political intrigue, and moments of grim humor.

It’s not just the tabletop game that draws people in, though. If you’re ready to get lost in a saga where “hope” is a four-letter word, the books will take you to places the rulebooks only hint at.

So, what’s the secret sauce that makes Warhammer 40k fiction so engaging? First off, the stories aren’t just background noise for a miniatures battle; they’re full-blown epics with world-building that could make even Tolkien jealous.

The Black Library—the powerhouse behind all Warhammer 40k books—has been pumping out these tales for years, building a library that spans centuries of lore and countless galactic battles. And don’t think for a second that this is just for tabletop players. Warhammer 40k fiction has carved out its niche, appealing to readers who want a mix of military sci-fi, gothic horror, and moral complexity.

Best part? The audience for Warhammer 40k books is exploding. From old-school fans to newcomers who just want a taste of grimdark action, the hunger for Warhammer stories shows no signs of slowing down.

If you haven’t already jumped into this galaxy of conflict, treachery, and heroism, now’s the time.

Here’s a quick list of Warhammer 40k fiction books that are worth picking up! 

Books for Beginners (Newer to 40k Lore):

• The Uriel Ventris Chronicles by Graham McNeill
• Eisenhorn Trilogy by Dan Abnett
• Ciaphas Cain: Hero of the Imperium by Sandy Mitchell
• Brothers of the Snake by Dan Abnett

Faction-Specific Books:

• Night Lords Omnibus by Aaron Dembski-Bowden
• Iron Warriors Omnibus by Graham McNeill
• Cadia Stands by Justin D. Hill
• Ravenor Omnibus by Dan Abnett

Advanced Lore:

• Horus Rising by Dan Abnett
• False Gods by Graham McNeill
• Gaunt’s Ghosts Series by Dan Abnett

Current Lore Series:

• Dawn of Fire Series by Guy Haley
• Dark Imperium Series by Guy Haley

Best Warhammer 40k Fiction Books & Stories to Start With

Why Warhammer 40k Books Are a Great Starting Point to the Game, Stories, & Lore

Think of Warhammer 40k books as the keys to the galaxy. The Warhammer universe is a chaotic mess—by design—but the novels help put all that chaos into focus. Let’s face it, trying to understand the lore by sifting through rulebooks and codices can feel like you’re trying to decode an ancient script. Warhammer fiction does the heavy lifting for you, giving context to the madness.

The 40k universe is all about factions: the Imperium of Man, Space Marines, Orks, Chaos, and a horde of others. The books show you what it’s like on the ground (or in space) for each of these groups. You’ll get inside the minds of immortal warriors, heretics, and even bureaucrats in the Imperial administration who are just trying to make it through their workday without being possessed by a demon.

Whether you’re reading about the human defenders of the Astra Militarum or the nightmarish schemes of Chaos Space Marines, these books make the factions feel real and the stakes sky-high.

For example, the Horus Heresy series, which rewinds 10,000 years before current events, breaks down how the Imperium went from a secular empire to a galaxy-spanning theocracy. You might find yourself rooting for traitors, understanding the (admittedly warped) logic behind their decisions. Warhammer fiction excels at making the motivations of each faction feel logical—even if “logical” in this universe usually means “brutally violent.”

Warhammer 40k books don’t just build up the lore—they give readers an insider’s view of its harsh, unforgiving galaxy. You’ll come away not just knowing more, but feeling the bleakness and occasional heroism that defines Warhammer 40k. If you’re ready to plunge into a world where there is only war, these books are your gateway.

The Uriel Ventris Chronicles by Graham McNeill

Faction: Ultramarines

Meet Uriel Ventris, your classic Space Marine hero with a twist—he actually thinks for himself (shocking, I know). If you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of Space Marines, Uriel Ventris is the perfect guide.

The Uriel Ventris Chronicles (formerly known as The Ultramarines Omnibus) serves up everything you need to know about what it means to be a Space Marine in Warhammer 40k, minus the mind-numbing dogma that plagues other Astartes characters.

Ventris isn’t just a killing machine. He questions authority, bends rules, and generally acts like a human being, which is rare among these walking tanks. Over the course of his adventures, you’ll battle alongside him against the horrors of the galaxy—from the horrific Tyranids to the ancient Necrons.

McNeill’s writing strikes the perfect balance between action and introspection, giving you a solid grasp of one of the most significant factions in the Warhammer 40k stories.

If you’re curious about how the Imperium’s poster boys—the Ultramarines—navigate their responsibilities, this is your go-to. Plus, you’ll quickly learn why they’re not the simple, rigid soldiers they’re often made out to be.

Last update on 2024-12-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Eisenhorn Trilogy by Dan Abnett

Faction: Imperial Inquisition

Now, let’s switch gears and head into the murky political waters of the Imperial Inquisition. Dan Abnett’s Eisenhorn Trilogy introduces Gregor Eisenhorn, an inquisitor tasked with rooting out heresy, but don’t expect a clean-cut hero.

Eisenhorn’s journey through Xenos, Malleus, and Hereticus drags him deeper into the twisted morality of the Imperium, where the lines between good and evil blur.

This series gives a fascinating peek into the inner workings of the Imperium’s ideological machine. Abnett masterfully showcases how the Inquisition is as much about politics and manipulation as it is about hunting down demons and heretics.

If you’ve ever wondered how the Imperium maintains order over a galaxy-spanning, fractured empire, Warhammer 40k fiction doesn’t get much better than this.

Last update on 2024-12-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Ciaphas Cain: Hero of the Imperium by Sandy Mitchell

Faction: Imperial Guard

If you need a break from the bleakness of Warhammer stories, Ciaphas Cain is the perfect palate cleanser. He’s an Imperial Guard commissar who’d rather fake a heroic reputation than actually face danger head-on. Somehow, despite his best efforts to stay far away from the front lines, he’s constantly thrust into battle—usually to hilarious results.

Sandy Mitchell’s writing is sharp, witty, and refreshingly light for a universe that’s otherwise drowning in its own gloom. Cain’s misadventures bring humor into a setting that desperately needs it. You’ll appreciate his sarcastic wit and resourcefulness, even as he stumbles through terrifying alien invasions and traitor attacks.

Plus, his unique take on being “heroic” makes this one of the most approachable Warhammer 40k books for newcomers.

Last update on 2024-12-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Night Lords Omnibus by Aaron Dembski-Bowden

Faction: Chaos Space Marines

Finally, if you’ve got a thing for the bad guys, the Night Lords Omnibus is an absolute must-read. Aaron Dembski-Bowden gives us a chilling yet captivating look at one of the most notorious Chaos Space Marine factions—the Night Lords. Led by the tortured Talos Valcoran, this band of traitors doesn’t fight for honor, glory, or even survival. They fight for vengeance, cruelty, and just to watch the galaxy burn.

Dembski-Bowden brilliantly humanizes the inhuman, making Talos and his twisted brothers-in-arms oddly relatable. By the end, you’ll find yourself invested in these brutal, tragic warriors. It’s a rare perspective in Warhammer 40k fiction books, where the traitor legions are typically painted with a broad brush of evil.

If you’re looking for one of the best WH40k books that gives voice to the fallen, the Night Lords Omnibus will keep you enthralled from start to finish.

Last update on 2024-12-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Understanding Warhammer 40k Factions Through Fiction

If the universe of Warhammer 40k seems like a chaotic mess of power armor, demons, and grumpy soldiers, that’s because it absolutely is. But it’s not without reason! Warhammer 40k factions are more than just armies; they’re ideologies clashing in an endless cosmic battlefield.

Each group has a rich, intricate backstory, and Warhammer 40k books offer a front-row seat to the carnage. These books aren’t just about guns blazing—they’re filled with complex politics, backstabbing betrayals, and some surprisingly relatable moments. Let’s take a look at how the best Warhammer 40k books dive into the major factions, from the Emperor’s loyal Space Marines to the twisted Chaos Space Marines.

Space Marines – Heroes of the Imperium

Space Marines are humanity’s answer to the question, “What if we made the biggest, scariest, most devout soldiers possible and gave them power armor?” They’re the Imperium’s finest (and often most morally conflicted) warriors. But don’t let their brutal efficiency fool you—there’s depth beneath all that ceramite.

Quick Order Links: | Amazon | Games Workshop’s Store

Recommended Reads:

The Uriel Ventris Chronicles (Graham McNeill)
Ever wanted to get to know the poster boys of the Imperium, the Ultramarines? The Uriel Ventris Chronicles is the perfect starting point. Uriel Ventris isn’t your typical by-the-book Space Marine. He breaks the rules, pushes boundaries, and isn’t afraid to think for himself—unheard of in a universe where thinking too much usually gets you branded a heretic.

McNeill does an incredible job of balancing epic space battles with Ventris’ personal growth, making this one of the best Warhammer 40k books for learning about the Imperium’s finest warriors.

Brothers of the Snake (Dan Abnett)
If you prefer your Space Marines a bit more stoic and mysterious, Brothers of the Snake introduces the Iron Snakes, a lesser-known but no less deadly chapter. Abnett’s storytelling is sharp, focusing on their sense of brotherhood and duty.

The Iron Snakes are all about loyalty, but don’t expect heartwarming moments—they serve humanity with a level of cold efficiency that’ll make you glad they’re on your side. This one’s a fan favorite for its focus on character-driven narrative while still delivering all the bolter-action you crave.

The Inquisition – Shadowy Protectors of Mankind

Think of the Inquisition as the Imperium’s secret police—but with more psychic powers and a lot more paperwork. They’re tasked with protecting humanity from heretics, xenos, and daemons. The kicker? They’ll do anything to accomplish their mission, even if it means crossing a few moral lines.

Recommended Reads:

Eisenhorn Trilogy (Dan Abnett)
If you want to step into the world of the Inquisition, Eisenhorn is the place to start. Gregor Eisenhorn is a no-nonsense Inquisitor who finds himself neck-deep in political intrigue, hunting down heretics and xenos, while questioning his own methods.

Dan Abnett masterfully crafts a tale that’s part detective novel, part political thriller, and all grimdark. Eisenhorn is the guy you root for, even as he teeters dangerously close to becoming what he fights against. Easily one of the best WH40k books for fans of psychological and moral complexity.

Ravenor Omnibus (Dan Abnett)
For those who enjoyed Eisenhorn, Ravenor follows one of his former proteges, Gideon Ravenor. Confined to a life-support chair but still as deadly as ever, Ravenor leads a team of misfits in the hunt for heretics. The action is intense, the stakes are high, and the moral dilemmas will leave you questioning who the real heroes are. Abnett continues to shine in his portrayal of the Inquisition, blending shadowy manipulation with brutal justice.

Last update on 2024-12-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Imperial Guard – The Frontline of Humanity

The Imperial Guard (or Astra Militarum, if you’re feeling fancy) is humanity’s first and last line of defense. These are just regular humans with slightly above-average bravery and a terrifyingly short lifespan. What they lack in genetic modification, they make up for in sheer numbers and determination.

Recommended Reads:

Ciaphas Cain (Sandy Mitchell)
For a lighter take on the otherwise grim universe, Ciaphas Cain is your man. He’s a commissar who’s less concerned with valor and more with staying alive. Through sheer luck (and plenty of running away), Cain always seems to land himself in the thick of battle, despite his best efforts to avoid it.

This series brings humor to the Warhammer 40k universe, making it a breath of fresh air while still delivering on action and adventure. Perfect for those wanting a funnier side to Warhammer stories.

Cadia Stands (Justin D. Hill)
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more serious, Cadia Stands chronicles the fall of Cadia, one of the Imperium’s most fortified planets. This book showcases the unbreakable will of the Cadian soldiers as they face off against the overwhelming forces of Chaos. It’s a testament to the resilience of the Imperial Guard and their ability to stand firm even when the galaxy is crumbling around them.

Last update on 2024-12-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Chaos Space Marines – Traitors of the Imperium

Chaos Space Marines are the ultimate cautionary tale: once proud defenders of the Imperium, they’ve fallen to the corrupting influence of the Chaos Gods. Now, they wage war on their former brothers, seeking revenge and, often, total destruction of anything remotely resembling order.

Recommended Reads:

Night Lords Omnibus (Aaron Dembski-Bowden)
If you’ve ever wondered what makes a Chaos Space Marine tick, the Night Lords Omnibus is essential reading. Led by Talos Valcoran, the Night Lords are a far cry from the disciplined forces of the loyalist legions.

Dembski-Bowden gives readers a rare, sympathetic look at the motivations behind these tortured traitors, humanizing them without pulling any punches when it comes to their horrific deeds. It’s one of the best Warhammer 40k books for getting inside the heads of the Imperium’s worst enemies.

Iron Warriors Omnibus (Graham McNeill)
For a more brutal, mechanical view of Chaos, Iron Warriors Omnibus follows Warsmith Honsou and his cold, calculating approach to war. The Iron Warriors don’t fight for glory—they fight to tear down the Imperium brick by brick. McNeill’s portrayal of these hardened traitors is ruthless, giving you a front-row seat to their relentless pursuit of destruction.

Last update on 2024-12-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Expanding Your Warhammer 40k Knowledge with Advanced Lore

So, you’ve cracked open a few Warhammer 40k books and now you’re hooked. Maybe you’ve cheered for Uriel Ventris, chuckled at Ciaphas Cain, or even peeked into the twisted minds of Chaos. But if you want to kick your immersion up a notch, it’s time to get into the serious stuff—the kind of lore that’ll have you whispering “For the Emperor” in your sleep.

We’re talking about the Horus Heresy and Gaunt’s Ghosts, two series that give a whole new level of insight into the history, heroism, and horrors of the Warhammer 40k universe.

The Horus Heresy Series

Let’s start with the Horus Heresy, the big one. This isn’t just any backstory; this is the backstory that shaped the galaxy of Warhammer 40k into the brutal dystopia it is today. Set 10,000 years before the events most people are familiar with, the Horus Heresy chronicles how the Imperium fell from grace. It’s the tale of betrayal, rebellion, and the catastrophic downfall of the Emperor’s most trusted sons—the Primarchs.

Key Books:

Horus Rising (Dan Abnett)
This is where it all begins. Horus Rising gives us a glimpse of the Imperium at its height, during the Great Crusade. The Emperor’s vision of a united humanity is nearly complete, and everything seems just dandy—until Horus, the Emperor’s most beloved Primarch, starts having second thoughts.

Abnett’s sharp prose and nuanced characters make this a must-read for anyone looking to understand how the galaxy went from shining hope to, well, the flaming wreckage it is in the 41st millennium.

Last update on 2024-12-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

False Gods (Graham McNeill)
Things start going downhill fast in False Gods. Horus, having been mortally wounded, is exposed to the insidious corruption of Chaos. And because this is Warhammer, you know things are going to get messy.

McNeill paints a gripping picture of Horus’s fall, setting the stage for the civil war that will tear the galaxy apart. If you want to see what it looks like when a galaxy-spanning empire crumbles, this is your jam.

Last update on 2024-12-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Gaunt’s Ghosts Series by Dan Abnett

If Space Marines are the larger-than-life demigods of Warhammer, then the Astra Militarum is full of the everyman. And no one captures that human perspective better than Gaunt’s Ghosts.

This series follows Commissar Ibram Gaunt and his ragtag group of soldiers, the Tanith First and Only, as they navigate the impossible odds of Imperial warfare. No genetically enhanced super-soldiers here—just grit, determination, and a healthy fear of Chaos.

Why You Should Read It:

Gaunt’s Ghosts offers something rare in Warhammer stories: a focus on regular humans. These soldiers don’t have power armor or lightning claws, but they have heart. Abnett’s writing is full of tension and character, making this one of the most gripping series in Warhammer 40k fiction books.

It’s about loyalty, sacrifice, and heroism in the face of certain death. If you want a ground-level view of the galaxy’s horrors, this is the series to pick up.

Last update on 2024-12-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Where to Find Warhammer 40k Books

Black Library – The Heart of Warhammer Fiction

Quick Order Links: | Amazon | Games Workshop’s Store

Now, if you’re serious about diving into the galaxy of Warhammer 40k, there’s one place to get the good stuff: Black Library. This is where all the Warhammer 40k fiction books you know and love come from. Black Library has been the beating heart of Warhammer lore for decades, churning out novels, anthologies, and short stories that keep the 40k universe alive (and full of bolter shells).

Why Black Library Books Matter:

Black Library isn’t just about cool battles and grimdark tales (though there’s plenty of that). These books are crucial to understanding the ongoing narrative of Warhammer.

Whether it’s filling in the gaps of the Horus Heresy or setting up the next chapter in the Imperium’s struggle against Chaos, Black Library books keep you in the loop. They’re like the canon text for Warhammer fans, giving you the official lowdown on who’s winning, who’s losing, and who’s busy getting possessed by daemons.

Warhammer 40k Audiobooks – A Great Way to Absorb the Lore

If you’re the kind of person who prefers to multitask—or just wants to feel like they’re being read to by a Space Marine—Warhammer 40k audiobooks are an incredible option. They offer dramatized performances that add depth to the already intense action, making you feel like you’re right there in the trenches with the Astra Militarum or aboard a strike cruiser with the Ultramarines.

Why Choose Audiobooks?

Audiobooks are perfect for anyone who wants to absorb the lore while commuting, painting minis, or just relaxing. The voice actors that narrate these Warhammer stories bring an added layer of emotion and intensity to the already gripping tales.

Trust me, hearing a Chaos Lord rant about the end of the Imperium hits differently when it’s delivered with the kind of vocal energy only an audiobook can provide.

Recommended Audiobooks from Black Library:

• The Horus Heresy: Horus Rising narrated by Toby Longworth. His rich, gravelly voice makes Horus’s fall from grace all the more chilling.
• Gaunt’s Ghosts: First and Only narrated by Toby Longworth (again). He captures the tension of battle and the camaraderie between soldiers perfectly.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, audiobooks are a fantastic way to get more Warhammer into your life without dedicating hours to sitting down with a book. It’s a win-win.

Warhammer 40k Fiction Books to Stay Updated With Current Lore

Warhammer 40k isn’t just a static universe where heroes and villains clash eternally. It’s a constantly shifting, ever-escalating conflict where even the most established characters are challenged, and entire systems of belief can be upended.

If you want to stay on top of the current lore—and by “current,” I mean the galaxy-shaking, empire-redefining stuff—there are a couple of series you can’t ignore. Enter The Dawn of Fire and Dark Imperium series, two of the most essential Warhammer 40k fiction books for anyone who wants to know where things stand in the 41st millennium.

The Dawn of Fire Series by Guy Haley

What’s It About?

Imagine the Imperium of Man struggling on the edge of complete collapse. Now, throw in a galactic-sized crack in reality, some of the most ferocious enemies imaginable, and a resurrected demigod trying to glue the whole mess back together. That’s what The Dawn of Fire series is all about.

The series kicks off with Avenging Son, the first book in what is essentially the main storyline for the Warhammer 40k universe right now. It follows the Indomitus Crusade, a massive military campaign led by none other than Roboute Guilliman, the Primarch of the Ultramarines.

Guilliman is back, and he’s not happy with how things have turned out after his 10,000-year nap. The galaxy is torn apart by the Great Rift, a massive warp storm that has split the Imperium in two. To put it bluntly, it’s not a great time to be a human.

In Avenging Son, Guy Haley sets the stage for this monumental effort to save humanity. You’ll get political intrigue, battles of massive scale, and a glimpse into the minds of characters who are just trying to keep their heads above water as reality itself unravels around them.

If you’re looking to stay current with the universe and want a solid narrative foundation for understanding where the Imperium stands, Dawn of Fire is one of the best Warhammer 40k books to get started.

Last update on 2024-12-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Dark Imperium Series by Guy Haley

What’s It About?

If you thought bringing back Roboute Guilliman was just for show, think again. The Dark Imperium series follows Guilliman’s return and all the headaches that come with being the only sane person in a galaxy gone mad. Post-Cadia (which, spoiler alert, didn’t stand), the Imperium is in absolute disarray.

Demons are running rampant, Chaos is having a field day, and even the Emperor—who Guilliman might have some daddy issues with—is more of a spiritual figure than a hands-on leader.

In Dark Imperium, Guy Haley explores the clash between Guilliman’s forward-thinking, practical mind and the crushing weight of Imperial tradition and superstition. Guilliman, armed with the new Primaris Space Marines, is trying to bring order to a galaxy that seems determined to fall apart at the seams.

It’s the kind of story that blends personal struggle with galaxy-sized stakes, and it’s full of critical updates to the lore. Whether you’re interested in how Guilliman is coping with his return, or you just want to know what the Imperium is up against now, this series is absolutely essential reading.

The Dark Imperium books, including Plague War, dive deep into Guilliman’s campaign to reclaim the galaxy from the forces of Chaos. And yes, Mortarion, the Daemon Primarch of the Death Guard, is back too—because nothing in Warhammer 40k is ever easy.

Last update on 2024-12-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Best Way to Start Your Warhammer 40k Reading Journey With Amazing Stories

Whether you’re new to the grimdark universe or already have a few books under your belt, Warhammer 40k fiction offers something for everyone. From iconic characters and legendary battles to the latest twists in the galaxy’s never-ending war, there’s always a new story to sink into.

For Beginners: If you’re just getting started, you can’t go wrong with The Uriel Ventris Chronicles, Eisenhorn Trilogy, or Ciaphas Cain. These books offer a perfect introduction to the major factions and the larger narrative without feeling overwhelming.

For Advanced Readers: For those looking to dig into the deeper lore, it’s time to pick up the Horus Heresy, Gaunt’s Ghosts, or the more recent Dawn of Fire series. These books expand your understanding of the universe and provide critical updates to the ongoing story.

Whether you’re reading for fun, lore, or both, Warhammer 40k stories and fiction span everything from galaxy-sized space battles to the human (and inhuman) elements that make these stories so compelling.

Don’t just stick to print either—Warhammer 40k audiobooks are an excellent way to enjoy dramatized performances that add extra weight to these already heavy themes. With endless tales of heroism, betrayal, and survival, there’s no better time to dive headfirst into the galaxy where there is only war.

Warhammer 40k Factions Explained: A Complete Guide to Every Army

What do you think is the best Warhammer 40k book or stories?

About the Author: Travis Pasch

Travis Pasch

Job Title: Head Writer & Editor

Socials: @paschbass 

About Travis Pasch: Travis has been a Warhammer 40k hobbyist since the 1990s, playing the game since Third Edition. Through extensive traveling, he’s seen a lot of the miniatures hobby from across the world, giving him a unique perspective on the latest gaming topics and trends.

Travis’s brother even owns a commission painting studio, where he’s picked up a lot of good advice and techniques for painting Warhammer and tabletop miniatures over the years, as well. Travis joined the Spikey Bits team in 2019 and has been the lead writer since 2020.

Currently, he’s working on converting all his 40k Adeptus Mechanicus models and becoming a true tech enjoyer, complete with both sad and happy robot noises!

Related Posts

• 

  GW’s CEO Says Best Year Ever – Fans Question His Claims
• 

  24 Days of New 40k Detachment Rules Revealed for Grotmas
• 

  JOYTOY’s Massive New 40K Imperial Knight Is Next-Level Awesome