Here are the best Black Library books and series to check out for an insane amount of lore about the Warhammer 40k universe.
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.
The Best Warhammer 40k Black Library Books To Read
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.
Click here to browse all the Space Marine Battles Books!
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.
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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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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!
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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
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- Get 40k RPG Books & Black Library Cheap On Humble Bundle
All the Latest Warhammer Rules & Model Rumors
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About the Author: John Von Canon
John Von Canon
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Bio: Gym rat by day and a hobby enjoyer by night, collector of Atogs and Atog accessories. John joined the Spikey Bits team in 2023 and has since been covering new products, trading card games, and RPGs. He spends his evenings running reps at his LGS for the full hobby experience. If you’re looking for niche and convoluted ways to sneak out a win in your next commander game, he’s your guy. He’s been walking planes and slinging mana since the release of Eldritch Moon back in 2016.
