Heresy & Heroes

Visions of Heresy

Prepare yourselves for I am about to have a proper gush about a new book from Games Workshop and Black Library because, well, it’s awesome. Visions of Heresy is an astounding tome and a real luxury purchase for any fans of the most monumental saga in 40k history.

On Wednesday, I popped into my local Games Workshop (Oxford Street Plaza for them who’s asking) for a small bottle of superglue and, as so often happens, I ended up spending over £60, the bulk of which was taken up by this big shiny book. It ain’t cheap. At £45.00, that’s a Codex and a half, but what you get is the most comprehensive and lovingly compiled collection of Horus Heresy inspired artworks that you’ll ever see.

I’m actually quite chuffed that I allowed my love of shiny things to obscure my senses and convince me to shell out for this work. The typical buyer’s remorse that oft accompanies these sort of purchases burned away like so much prometheum through the nozzle of a heavy flamer as soon as I turned the book over, still in its protective, clear wrapping and saw the back cover. Worth taking a peak if you’ve not done so already.

Alan Merrett has filled over 400 pages with astounding artwork, all grouped by legion, history or event. To see the iconic and beautiful work of John Blanche, Adrian Smith and Neil Roberts in all this glossy glory would be worth the price alone, but there are images from such a wide range of artists that it’s simply incredible to behold. Each set of images is accompanied by historical notes and diagnosis from Merrett and the whole thing ties up to be an overwhelming collection of fantastic fluff and imaginative artwork.

In fact, if I had a single criticism to make, it might be that this collection is simply too big to take in in its entirety. I’ve had a couple of days to pour over it (and I have poured) and I still finding new gems within the pages.

Particular highlights for me include the collections of work on the Custodes (hurry Forge World – make them now!!) and, though I’m a fan of neither legion or chapter in terms of the minis I collect, the collections regarding Prospero, the Wolves and the Sons are all real treats. From basic sketches to more stylised images, everything here is a grimdark joy for a fluff-head like what I am.

I should also say that there is certainly scope for more artwork. As Blanche and Roberts particularly create more and more fantastic images and sketches, and as the Black Library books flesh out more and more of the stories, we’re sure to have a sequel tome appearing in the future. For one thing, I was slightly annoyed at the lack of Nightlords images and would love to see some new, dark depictions of Curze in all his sadistic glory.

This book is by no means a necessity, but if you are a fan of fluff and the artwork that is produced around it, and if you have a spare chunk of cash in your budget, I heartily recommend picking up this beautiful luxury.