But there is a secret backdoor into this grim, dark future. It doesn’t involve painting miniatures or memorizing tank specifications. It requires a pair of headphones and one name: Gregor Eisenhorn.

By the time you finish Hereticus , you won't just want to listen to the sequel trilogy ( Ravenor ). You’ll be looking at Space Marine minis on eBay, searching "What is a bolter," and muttering, "I am the Emperor’s will made manifest."

Have you listened to the Eisenhorn audiobook? Or are you just starting the journey? Let me know in the comments below! Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, but more importantly, it contains the belief that Dan Abnett is the Shakespeare of the 41st Millennium.

Absolutely not. This is the book I recommend to everyone who asks, "Where do I start?" You learn about the Imperium through Eisenhorn’s eyes. You don't need to know what a Space Marine is (though one does show up later, and it’s a huge moment). You just need to know that humanity is terrified, and Eisenhorn is the man holding a candle in the dark.