Review of Sons of the Selenar by Graham McNeill

The first handful of books in the Siege of Terra have steadily ramped pressure. The Solar War, The Lost & the Damned, and The First Wall saw Horus attack the solar system, land on Terra, and assault the Emperor's palace with everything he has. And each book featured varying perspectives on the brutal, relentless assault. Graham McNeill's novella Sons of the Selenar (2020) offers readers a break in the Siege of Terra action—a Meanwhile, back in the galaxy... moment to catch up with what's happening with the so-called Shattered Legions

The Iron Hands, Salamanders, and Raven Guard are aboard the ship Sisypheum. But without a primarch to command them, opinions abound as the group decides whether to chase rumors of a resurrected captain or return to Terra to join the fight. While they eventually decide on one of the two options, it is far from their ultimate destination. The third way forcing itself upon the group, what they must do has repercussions far beyond Horus' assault on Terra.

After reading back cover copy of Sons of the Selenar I was under the impression the book would feature squads of the Shattered Legions. I was wrong. It features individual space marines representing each of the Shattered Legions. It's smaller in scope. But that does not mean the story lacks battles, action, etc. The final half of the novella is an exhilarating ride. McNeill generates a huge amount of organic drama and action from a few characters, then tugs at readers' heartstrings with each step taken. The final pair of scene are superb, and the last-last is chef's kiss.

Sons of the Selenar is spurious to the Horus Heresy storyline. You don't need to read it to appreciate the Siege of Terra. That being said, it's a brilliant story, one that has deep implications for the Warhammer 40k lore and which stands strong, alone. Which is where my recommendation lies. If you're looking to stick to the spine of the Horus Heresy, you can skip this one. If you're taking your time, smelling the blaster smoke, or are interested in the Warhammer world across all the sub-IPs, then have a look. Also, if you're looking for a break from Siege of Terra, this is definitely it. And lastly, if you just want a good HH story, try it out. It stands on its own.