A review by trackofwords
Assault On Black Reach Novella by Nick Kyme

3.0

Released in 2008 to tie in with the Warhammer 40,000 starter set of the same name, this tells the story of the epic conflict between the Ultramarines 2nd Company and the vast ork Waaagh! of warlord Zanzog on the ravaged world of Black Reach. Led by Captain Cato Sicarius, the Ultramarines launch a blistering drop assault to strike at the head of the ork horde, intending to kill Zanzag and cripple the orks in a single devastating blow. Some among the Ultramarines, however, fear that Sicarius risks too much in his thirst for glory.

It’s clearly intended as an introduction to 40k as a setting, and it does a pretty good job of delivering exactly that. The plot has plenty of pace and momentum, and the multiple action scenes, delivered with a reasonable amount of variety considering the subject matter, don’t overstay their welcome. It’s not the most sophisticated plotting or writing, but it’s more than entertaining enough to demonstrate to a new reader what they can expect from the tone and style of 40k, while existing fans can enjoy making up their mind on exactly what they think about Sicarius.

Read the full review at https://www.trackofwords.com/2018/09/26/assault-on-black-reach-nick-kyme/