March 2024 Re-Read using the Horus Heresy Omnibus Project Reading Order - Omnibus IX Omnissiah I Death of Innocence (https://www.heresyomnibus.com/omnibus/ix-omnissiah-i-death-of-innocence) as part of my Oath of Moment to complete the Horus Heresy saga and extras.

In my head I remembered this being a continuation of the wacky device the Lion was chatting with, but it's actually a brilliant prequel to Mechanicus!

A technician stumbles into an awkward working relationship that they realise isn't right for them or the Imperium and have to run for their life trying to find sanctuary on the red planet.

This is McNeill firing on all cylinders and I don't recall him being creepy or weird.

The depth and detail of life on Mars and a closer look at the religion of the Omnissiah is truly incredible, especially with how naturally they are shown within a gripping narrative. Yes, it's a classic the thing I'm working on is naughty and now that they know that I know it's naughty I have to run for my life story, but it's told really well and just absolutely packed with flavour.

It just kinda is what it is and many of the especially interesting and cool stuff, even in reference, are spoilers so I just don't want to say anything other than this being a wonderful story and, while it's not essential, it does give greater context for Mechanicus and is a glorious jaunt across Mars.

Love it!

Through using the Horus Heresy Omnibus Project (www.heresyomnibus.com) and my own choices, I have currently read 16.41 Horus Heresy novels, 9 novellas, 43 short stories/ audio dramas, as well as the Macragge's Honour graphic novel, 8 Primarchs novels, 3 Primarchs short stories/ audio dramas, and 2 Warhammer 40K further reading novels...this run. I can't say enough good about the way the Horus Heresy Omnibus Project suggestions. I'm loving it! Especially after originally reading to the releases and being so frustrated at having to wait so long for a narrative to continue