This book follows members of the Iron Hands Space Marine Chapter as they aid human forces at the outbreak of the 13th black crusade. Attached to a group of techno-magi, the Iron Hands travel across star systems tracking ancient artifacts guarding some hidden power on the edge of the chaos eye. The forces of chaos race against them, lead by a dark apostle of the Word Bearers. The treasure slowly reveals itself as a key element in the up-coming war, something both sides desperately want. The climax is explosive as seconds decide the fate of humanity. A well-written work on a chapter that has received little background. Colorful and well-researched in terms of use of the source material. Things can get stale, such as when the stoic qualities or actions of characters are repeated too many times. The character development hits a wall about halfway through as well, leaving strong action sequences to carry to book, most of the time with success. ( )