A Warhammer 40K Superfan's Perfect Reading Guide

Published on 8 May 2025

A Warhammer 40K enthusiast did 5+ years of in depth study and reading all of the books. We now present what he has learned from that experience. This guide is for new to the franchise to really jump in at the deep end and get into the best stories. Also our long time players this guide also includes some of the more obscure, but well worth your time, stories.

Why You Need This Warhammer 40K Reading Guide

Warhammer 40K has a library of over 300 books. That’s a lot in which to choose from at first go. This guide puts forth it’s choice of the best books. We go through and pick the ones that give you the most enjoyment. You’ll see the world of the game open up to you faster.

Understanding Warhammer 40K Lore

In a world that blends dark fantasy and science fiction man is at war with aliens and demons. Space Marines are elite soldiers. The Emperor is the protector of man against chaos. This RPG like universe rewards in depth play.

The Best Warhammer 40K Books to Start With

Begin your journey with these action packed stories. They introduce you to the key factions and events. As you read you will learn new things.

1. Horus Rising

Start out with the Horus Heresy series which is where it all begins. We see the reason behind the Imperial civil war in these books. Also in them are great characters and battles which really stand out. Many consider it the best Warhammer 40K novel.

2. Eisenhorn: Xenos

Pursue inquisitors which seek out heretics. This book reports on daily life in the Imperium. The detective style story is what brings in the new readers. As series progresses it does so into more intense topics.

3. Gaunt's Ghosts: First and Only

Read up on that which pertains to superior human soldiers. The Guard they fight what should be impossible battles. This series has great war scenes. The characters are very real and in depth.

Intermediate Warhammer 40K Books

Once you have the basics down, check out these in depth stories which will expand your knowledge of the universe.

1. The Infinite and the Divine

Two for eons which out last us, that is what we find in this book’s look at necron culture. Also the humor in it takes by surprise many fans. Also strategic thought which is a main element in the plot.

2. Brutal Kunnin'

Orks assault a forge world. Into the war which the aliens see. The book is humorous and violent. Great for a break between the longer more serious stories.

3. Helsreach

A city is under attack by Orks. The Black Templars do everything in their power to repel them. This book has great final stands. The audio version of the book is really excellent.

Advanced Warhammer 40K Reading

These fans of long standing will enjoy these books, which also see many story lines tie together.

1. The Solar War

Horus launches on Terra in this book. We see a great siege which is the setting for large scale battles. All space marine chapters are thrown into the conflict. Action at breakneck speed.

2. The Talon of Horus

Learn the story that came after the Heresy. In the midst of the terror a black legion takes shape. This book has in depth character study. Fans love the new point of view.

3. The Emperor's Legion

See through the eyes of the Custodes. Politics play out in the background of the war. The book reports on the Emperor’s health. It also brings many stories full circle.

Warhammer 40K Book Series to Follow

These extensive series’ we see read them in the order they were written for the full experience.

1. The Horus Heresy

54 books tell this civil war story. In which I will go over the first five. Then I’ll choose the story lines which appeal to me. The quality of the books is mixed.

2. Eisenhorn and Ravenor

In a shared universe which the inquisitors feature in, read up on Eisenhorn first. Once that is done move on to Ravenor. The Bequin series which is a part of this universe comes forward with the next set of stories.

3. Gaunt's Ghosts

15 books in which those soldiers are the stars. Each one is a standalone story. Together they tell a grand war saga. The characters’ stories span decades.

Standalone Warhammer 40K Novels

These great books stand alone. Read them at your leisure.

1. Fifteen Hours

A guardsman makes it through a very tough day. This book presents the human price of war. It is short but very powerful. Many fans put it back out again and again.

2. Titanicus

Giant robots at it in a world scale that is very large. We go in deep into the technical aspects which tech fans will love. Also we have a lot of in story strategy elements.

3. Double Eagle

Pilots engage in aerial warfare. Dogfights are as fast and exciting as any race. What this book does is take us out of the typical land based combat. The action is non stop.

Reading Order Tips for Warhammer 40K Books

Here are some easy rules to follow. They will improve your experience.

1. Start Small

Do not jump into long series. Try stand alone books first out which see what factions you are most interested in. Then dive in deeper to those stories.

2. Follow Characters

Find characters you connect with. Read up on their full backstories. This approach will keep the world of the story consistent. You’ll care more about the results.

3. Mix Eras

Jump into different time frames of 30K and 40K. See how the world changes. Also this approach is to avoid burnout. Diverse options are also what we go for.

4. Skip Weak Books

Not all novels are great. I found that if you don’t care for one try another. In the shared universe which is what we see with many series -- no single book is a must read. This is so in casual reading.

Where to Find Warhammer 40K Books

These options work best for fans.

1. Black Library

The official publisher of our catalog which means you have access to all of our books. We feature new releases as they come in. We keep prices low for you. Also we frequently have sales.

2. Audiobooks

Many of the books I have come across have excellent audio versions. In terms of voice acting it brings a dramatic element. Try out the audio while you paint miniatures. The multiplayer experience is a stand out.

3. Local Stores

Game stores have a wide range of top selling titles. Also they will put forth their own book recommendations. Support the little guys when you can. This is what the gaming community does best.

Conclusion

This Warhammer 40K guide for new fans put together to get you started out with Horus Rising or Eisenhorn. Try out a variety of factions and eras. Pass on the ones which don’t grab you. With audio books you have great material to listen to. The universe of Warhammer 40K rewards repeat reads. You are now at the point to jump in.

FAQs

1. What's the first Warhammer 40K book I should read?

Start with Horus Rising or Eisenhorn: Xenos. Also they present the universe in a great way. Choose based on what I prefer.

2. How many Warhammer 40K books exist?

Over 300 novels in the setting at present. We add in new books every month. You’ll never run out of stories.

3. Do I need to read every book in order?

No. Follow your affinity for certain characters or groups. Many stand alone which is great in the book world. The gaming community puts out great personal stories.