A Black Templar company, separated from their crusade fleet by a warp storm, must navigate doubt and chaos to reach a besieged shrine world and face off against the forces of Khorne. Themes of faith, brotherhood, and unrelenting action drive this intense and gripping tale of Astartes on a mission to cleanse a world of the Ruinous Powers.

Reader Review Summary

"Broken Crusade" by Steven B. Fischer is a captivating and action-packed novel that immerses readers into the grim darkness of the 41st millennium through the eyes of the Black Templars Space Marines. From the outset, Fischer masterfully captures the unwavering faith and uncompromising dedication of these relentless crusaders, reminding us of the inhuman nature of the Astartes.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its portrayal of the Black Templars' relationship with their faith and sense of destiny. Fischer delves deep into the psyche of the Castellan Emeric, the protagonist, and his brothers, offering a profound exploration of their unwavering belief in their crusade's purpose. As the narrative unfolds, we witness their resilience in the face of adversity, as they cling to their convictions even when beset by doubt and warp storms that scatter their fleet.

Fischer's talent shines through in his ability to immerse readers in the heat of battle, delivering intense and visceral action sequences that leave you breathless. The clashes with the murderous warbands of the Blood God, Khorne, are visceral and exhilarating, capturing the sheer ferocity and brutality of the Astartes' combat prowess. These scenes are elevated by the exceptional performance of the audiobook narrator, Alex Linipekun, whose gritted-teeth delivery and palpable fury transport listeners directly into the heart of the conflict.

Beyond the action, "Broken Crusade" excels in its exploration of the themes of brotherhood and faith. The bond shared by the Black Templars is palpable, and their dedication to one another is as unwavering as their commitment to their crusade. Fischer's ability to evoke these powerful emotional connections amidst the chaos of battle is a testament to his storytelling prowess.

While the plot may become somewhat generic toward the latter half, as noted by one reviewer, the journey to reach the shrine world of Tempest is undoubtedly the book's highlight. Fischer's vivid descriptions and engaging narrative style make the arduous trek a captivating experience, leaving readers eager to follow the Black Templars to their final destination.

Overall, "Broken Crusade" is a must-read for fans of the Black Templars and the Warhammer 40,000 universe. Steven B. Fischer has crafted a gripping tale that not only entertains but also offers profound insights into the unwavering faith and brotherhood that define these iconic Space Marines. With its relentless action, compelling characters, and exploration of powerful themes, this novel is a worthy addition to the Black Library's catalog.