The End and the Death

The End and the Death: Volume 1 is the End and the Death of the Horus Heresy series until we GW finds a way to add another imprint series. As the first 1/3 of the End and the Death, Abnett does some interesting work in setting up the rest of the 3 parter. We mainly focus on 6(?) or so different perspectives, with several interludes throughout the book showing off random militia members and the like trying to survive and what not. The primary perspectives are interesting, theres a lot of warp shenanigans going on so characters teleport massive distances without knowing what’s happening, it’s quite enjoyable to read. One thing that isn't enjoyable though, and is arguably a nitpick, is how much the words “end and the death” are used. Every chapter or so, someone says something about how this is the “end and the death of everything” and its repeated so often that is bothers me. But my i biggest bother is that I have no idea how this is meant to go on for 1200 more pages. Everything feels set up like it could conclude within another single 500 page book, but two more volumes? I worry about the pacing, as at points in volume one already at points it felt like it was being drawn out a bit. In the end (and the death) i find it somewhat hard to rate this book. On its own its alright, could have been handled better in its pacing, but I liked enough of the stuff going on that I can’t be too harsh on it. As the first part of three novels, I worry for what will come next. But as this is sold as its own novel, I will rate it as its own novel and will just happens to see what will come in the end. (and the death). (volume 2).

The "End and The Death" is the first volume in a two-part conclusion to the epic 62-book series known as the Horus Heresy. To fans of Warhammer, this book requires no introduction. It is a true masterpiece.

For those unacquainted with the world of Warhammer 40,000, the story takes place in the year 30,000, when the Emperor of Mankind creates genetically engineered superhumans to help him reunite Earth and conquer the galaxy. The creation of these superhumans is a result of the Emperor's use of ancient and forgotten technologies, as well as alien technologies and the mysterious energy known as the Warp.

Ships equipped with a Warp-Drive can travel faster than the speed of light, but the Warp is not an empty realm. The Warp, through with the ships travel, is a dimension teeming with beings that connect to human emotions and give them shape. These beings, or perhaps the emotions themselves, become the catalyst for the Horus Heresy when the Emperor double-crosses them, and they seek to reclaim what they were promised - and more. The Warp's influence corrupts the superhumans and their brethren, sparking a bitter conflict that pits brother against brother.

The line between the Warp and reality is shattered, and millions of demonic entities are unleashed, while the Emperor sits on the golden throne, an ancient device that allows him to control the Warp and prevent a full-blown invasion of the galaxy. However, as he sits in silence, people begin to lose faith in him, and a rebellion fueled by the Warp and demonic forces breaks out, engulfing the galaxy in flames.

While the story may appear to be a typical tale of order versus chaos, it is also a tragic one, filled with flawed characters and heartbreaking moments. The Emperor, once thought to be invincible, is revealed to be imperfect. The superhumans, despite their incredible power, succumb to the Warp's influence. The Horus Heresy is a tale of epic proportions, a fight for the fate of the galaxy, and it is written with the utmost seriousness. However, it is also a story to be read with a twinkle in your eye, as it grips you and makes you root for one side or the other.