I liked this book for several reasons:1) I wanted to read a full description of what is a seminal moment in history of the Heresy that has been referred to repeatedly for the last two decades or more. I am therefore a little bias to say the least.2) I really (5 stars) liked the previous book in this arc Thousand Sons3) I really like the Space Wolves and was quite excited to see how they were portrayed in the 30K era compared to their relatively more civilised 40k incarnation. That they are the chosen executioners of the Emperor is a Heresy theme that has been mentioned before as are references to pre Heresy activities and this is an exciting idea.However there were some annoyances:4) Abnett went a little to far down the rabbit hole and indulged himself a little too much in parts and although no one expects the wolves to be likeable all the time they aren't by default annoying grumpy arses either. For all their feral wolf beast like qualities they were the most human of all the legions and some of this was ignored.Overall:Read it! Its worth it. Oh man Prospero Burns.It was a really interesting read, if nothing else. More of a lore novel, than a battle novel(which thankfully, I knew about). The Wolves. The Rout, the Vlyka Fenryka. Man how their image is different since William King's awesome novel series following Ragnar! Back then(a long time ago originally, but only a few years for me!) the Space Wolves, were just that. They were badass, hilarious vikings.... in SPACE! How that has changed! Though I will always love King's version, and like Lightner's, this new version of the Wolves was quite impressive. I really like them as a legion, and I hope they keep this adapted culture through into more books(both Horus Heresy AND 40K).The novel was a little weird, and felt like it was a lot smaller in scale compared to some of the other novels. I mean, it was all told from the perspective of one, normal, man, and we spent a great deal of time learning about HIS life, as opposed to that of the Space Wolves. There was really very little action in the novel as a consequence, which wasn't necessarily a bad thing. Just different.Though what action there was, was definitely damn fun!It was really interesting getting to see the other side of the story on Propsero, Nikaea, etc. It really added to the story, getting to see the reasons, the manipulation, Russ's grief at having to do his duty and end his brother(again!). Though we know how that all works out for the Thousand Sons in the end(assuming, of course, that you have read A Thousand Sons).Anyways, a good novel, great fun. Really awesome learning experience, and I hope to see more of the wolves in all their brutal glory later in the HH.
What do You think about Prospero Burns (2011)?
had a great storyline, but felt that it drag a lot in a few spots throughout the book.
—DekkerReads
I guess I don't hate the space wolves anymore but the ending was kinda confusing
—Tim
Alot of surprises in this book. The main character is essentially a historian.
—Grace
Really great read - great surprises and fantastic writing for a sci-fi book.
—rese
