If you’re just getting into the Warhammer 40k universe, there is an insane amount of lore; here’s where to start with Black Library books.
Warhammer 40,000 (often known as Warhammer 40k) is a universe rich with lore, drama, and epic tales of far-future warfare. This vast universe, birthed by Games Workshop, has been masterfully expanded upon through countless tabletop games, miniatures, video games, and of course, books.
Where to Start With Black Library Warhammer 40k Books
What is the Warhammer 40k universe? Warhammer 40,000 (Warhammer 40k) is a vast universe created by Games Workshop. It is set in the distant future and includes numerous tabletop games, video games, miniatures, and books. The universe is filled with a variety of factions and characters, each with its unique lore and backstory.
Horus Heresy Series
The “Horus Heresy” series serves as a perfect entry point into the Warhammer 40k universe. This epic saga spans over 50 books and tells the tragic story of the civil war that almost tore the human empire apart 10,000 years before the current 40k setting. The series starts with “Horus Rising” by Dan Abnett, which sets up the universe and introduces key characters and concepts. The first three books of this series provide a solid foundation and should be read in order.
Click here to browse all the Horus Heresy Books!
What is the “Horus Heresy” Series About?
The “Horus Heresy” series tells the tragic story of a civil war that almost destroyed the human empire 10,000 years before the current Warhammer 40k setting. The series starts with “Horus Rising,” which sets up the universe and introduces key characters and concepts.
Eisenhorn Trilogy
Penned by the renowned author Dan Abnett, the “Eisenhorn” series follows the titular Inquisitor Eisenhorn as he combats heresy and alien threats throughout the Imperium. The trilogy begins with “Xenos”, followed by “Malleus”, and “Hereticus”. These books offer an engaging introduction to the world of Warhammer 40k from a more personal and ground-level perspective, making them an excellent starting point.
Click here to browse all the Eisenhorn Books!
What is the “Eisenhorn” Trilogy About?
The “Eisenhorn” trilogy follows Inquisitor Eisenhorn’s journey combating heresy and alien threats throughout the Imperium. The series, written by Dan Abnett, begins with “Xenos,” followed by “Malleus” and “Hereticus.”
Gaunt’s Ghosts Series
Another outstanding series by Dan Abnett, “Gaunt’s Ghosts” provides a glimpse into the life of the Imperial Guard, the backbone of the Imperium’s military. The series starts with “First and Only” and follows the heroic members of the Tanith First-and-Only regiment, led by Colonel-Commissar Ibram Gaunt, through their battles against the forces of Chaos. These books are a must-read for anyone interested in military-focused narratives.
Click here to browse all the Gaunt’s Ghosts Books!
Space Marine Battles Series
If you are interested in the most iconic warriors of the 40k universe, the Space Marines, the “Space Marine Battles” series is a great place to start. These standalone novels and novellas showcase some of the most legendary battles fought by various Space Marine chapters against their fiercest enemies. A popular choice to start with would be “Rynn’s World” by Steve Parker, detailing an epic battle involving the Crimson Fists chapter.
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Ciaphas Cain Series
For a lighter and more humorous take on the Warhammer 40k universe, the “Ciaphas Cain” series by Sandy Mitchell is a perfect choice. Commissar Ciaphas Cain is a self-proclaimed coward but is continually hailed as a hero. Starting with “For the Emperor,” this series is a delightful and entertaining journey through the 40k universe.
Click here to browse all the Commissar Ciaphas Cain Books!
Which Black Library Books Should You Read to Learn About Warhammer 40k?
The Warhammer 40k book series present an immersive way to delve deeper into the incredibly detailed and diverse universe crafted by Games Workshop. Whether you’re interested in the tragic saga of the Horus Heresy, the heroic tales of Space Marines, the ground-level warfare of the Imperial Guard, or the humorous adventures of a reluctant hero, there’s a book or series that will cater to your interests.
Happy reading, and welcome to the grim darkness of the far future.
Click Here To Get Your Favorite Black Library Books Cheap on Audible!
This is quite the sweet deal if you want to listen to podcasts or books! Especially if you’re traveling, this is perfect for helping pass the time. Here’s everything you get even at the cheaper price:
- 1 credit a month to pick ANY title from our entire premium selection—to keep forever!
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Click Here To Sign up For the Discount!
If you’ve never used Audible before, the credits are really cool. You get a free book monthly, on top of all the streaming stuff you get to keep. So just with this, you’ll get Black Library books to keep, which is just cheaper than they actually cost.
Check out the latest Warhammer 40k rumors for 10th Edition, new releases, and more!
View Gallery: 30 Images
Here’s the most up-to-date list of new Games Workshop bits from preview models that we should watch out for. Click on the gallery above to see dozens of Rumor Engines with new models still to be revealed!
- New Primaris Space Marines 40k Rules & Minis
- Warhammer 40k 10th Edition Rules & Rumors
- Even More Warhammer Going For Super Cheap on eBay
- Latest New JOYTOY Action Figures & Discounts for Warhammer 40k
- Get 40k RPG Books & Black Library Cheap On Humble Bundle
All the Latest Warhammer Rules & Model Rumors
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About the Author: Rob Baer
Rob Baer
Job Title: Founder, Publisher, & Managing Editor
Founded Spikey Bits in 2009
Socials: Rob Baer on Facebook and @catdaddymbg on X
Bio: Virginia restless, miniature painter & cat dad. He blames LEGOs for all this, as there was something about those little-colored blocks that started it all. Spikey Bits sprung from Rob staying motivated to hobby on his backlog of projects, while sharing his knowledge with others during the early blogging era.
LEGO maniac and scale model hobbyist in the 80s turned miniature wargamer and trading card player ever since. He’s played every edition of Warhammer 40k and Warhammer Fantasy (since 5th Edition), but Titans of all sizes will always be his favorite! It’s even rumored that his hobby vault rivals the Solemnance Galleries, containing rulebooks filled with lore from editions long past, ancient packs of black-bordered Magic Cards, and minatures made of pewter and resin.
