I think 'Eisenhorn' is a standout. It combines a compelling mystery with intense action and explores deep themes within the 40k universe. The character of Eisenhorn is complex and fascinating.
Well, 'Gaunt's Ghosts' series is considered one of the top picks. It has an engaging plot and memorable characters. The world-building is also quite impressive.
It's hard to say which one is the absolute best, but 'Horus Rising' is often highly regarded for its rich storytelling and character development.
I would recommend 'The Horus Heresy: Horus Rising' as a great novel to start with. It gives a lot of background on the Warhammer 40,000 universe and the events that led to the great heresy. It has engaging characters like Horus himself, and it really sets the tone for the epic scale of the setting.
Another excellent starting point is 'Black Library Anthology Volume 1'. This anthology contains several short stories from the Warhammer universe. It's a great way to sample different styles of writing, different characters, and different parts of the Warhammer lore without having to commit to a full - length novel right away.
I think 'The Emperor's Gift' is a great starting point. It has a self - contained story that is easy to follow. It involves the Space Wolves and their encounter with a strange alien threat. The novel does a good job of showing the unique culture and combat style of the Space Wolves chapter within the Warhammer 40k universe.
I'd recommend 'Horus Rising' as a great one to start with. It's the first book in the Horus Heresy series which is a huge and important part of the Warhammer 40k lore. It gives you a good introduction to the Space Marines, the Imperium, and the main characters like Horus. You get to see the events that start the whole downward spiral for the Imperium.
I think 'Eisenhorn' by Dan Abnett is a great choice too. It focuses on Gregor Eisenhorn, an Inquisitor. The novel does a wonderful job of exploring the political intrigue, the horror, and the moral ambiguity within the Warhammer 40k setting. It has a really engaging mystery element that keeps you hooked from start to finish.
The 'Gotrek & Felix' series is also considered among the best. It follows the adventures of a Dwarf Slayer and his human companion. The series is great because it combines action, adventure, and a lot of the unique lore of the Warhammer Fantasy setting. There are numerous books in this series, each offering new and exciting tales set in different parts of the Warhammer world.
Definitely 'Horus Rising'. It's like the gateway to the whole Warhammer 40k saga. It sets the stage for so much of what's to come. You learn about the politics, the power struggles, and the different factions within the Imperium. It also has some really cool battle scenes that show you what the combat in this universe is like.
I think 'The Horus Heresy' series is a great place to start. It offers a deep and engaging look into the Warhammer universe's lore and characters.
I think 'The Great Betrayal' is a great one. It shows the backstabbing and complex politics in the Warhammer world really well. The story is full of twists and turns that keep you on your toes.
The story of Gotrek and Felix is also among the best. Gotrek, a dwarven slayer, and Felix, a human writer, journey together across the Warhammer world. They face all kinds of perils, from hordes of greenskins to the dark forces of chaos. Their friendship and the different cultures they represent make for a very engaging story.