Much better than I first imagined. ADB is talented and there are quite a few juicy scenes in the book, of which the Emperor's descent to Monarchia remains a powerful impression.

"+Kneel+ it whispered with the power of a hammer to the forehead. There was no resisting. Muscles acted instantly, no matter that many hearts fought not to obey. Argel Tal was one of them. This was not fealty, nor worship, nor service. This was slavery, and his instincts rebelled at the enforced devotion even as he obeyed it.

One hundred thousand Word Bearers kneeled in the dust of the perfect city, rendered prone by the Imperial decree.

A Legion was on its knees."