The Inquisition War

Rating:
Summary: Mostly Holds Up Over The Years
Review: I'd first read this series of 3 books when they first came out in the late 80s and early 90s. At the time, especially as it was the only 40K fiction in existence, I enjoyed them thoroughly.

When I heard that a collected 3-in-1 edition was on the way, I was overjoyed that I'd have a chance to reread something from my early adult years, but also a little nervous, as some of the things I enjoyed back then don't necessarily stand up well to a decade or two of more discriminating tastes and learning. This omnibus edition also includes 2 "linking" short stories in addition to the original 3 books.

The author's introduction says a lot about the work, especially his intent to "go completely over the top in style and also in content - to be lurid and brooding and hyperbolic and generally crazy, although in an elegant, ornate way where a dark beauty pervades the atmosphere as in a painting by Gustave Moreau."

The characters (which include Captain Lex D'Arquebus, Imperial Fists Space Marine; Grimm, Squat warrior; Meh'Lindi, Callidus assassin; Jaq Draco, Malleus Inquisitor; and a host of smaller, supporting roles) are well thought out, with believable motivations. The narration mirrors the state of mind of the individual.

So, how does it hold up? Surprisingly well, with a few exceptions: [1] Reading all 3 books at once exposes some repetition in M. Watson's descriptions and writing tools. [2] The history of the 40K universe has diverged fairly significantly over the last 20 years from M. Watson's vision (but that's hardly his fault). [3] The finale of the plot is weak.

The pros: [1] Well written, with consistent style and engaging narrative. [2] Illuminates aspects of the 40K universe that typically lay untouched in many of its fiction works. [3] M. Watson's imagination is phenomenal, and has driven Games Workshop's development for years after his departure. [4] One of the few "canon" references to the Illuminati, Sensei, and Star Child, as they pertain to 40K.

In conclusion: not flawless, but well worth reading if you're interested in 40K fiction.