Ferrus Manus - Gorgon of Medusa Book review spoiler free...ish

 

Ferrus Manus - Gorgon of Medusa by David Guymer.

Ferrus Manus, Primarch of the Iron Hands, was a master of the forge, a creator of weapons and armour that were as much works of art as they were instruments of war. Yet for all his skill, he often felt overshadowed when it came to winning recognition for bringing new worlds into compliance with the young Imperium. Compared to brothers like Roboute Guilliman or Lion El ’Jonson, Ferrus believed his own achievements were eclipsed by a wide margin. The Gardinaal compliance offered him a rare chance to prove he could succeed in a situation that demanded more than brute force. During this phase of the Great Crusade, many Legions exchanged companies and specialists to strengthen bonds and learn from one another, hoping to build the unity that had always defined allied warriors throughout history. The Gorgon of Medusa taps into this era beautifully, a short but compelling entry in the Primarchs series that shines a focused light on the Iron Hands’ enigmatic gene‑sire.

I found this short novel surprisingly engaging, and it caught me off guard in the best way. Ferrus is brought to life with a clarity that really leans into the Iron Hands’ trademark resolve, but the story never forgets that beneath all the metal and discipline, he’s still a man shaped by pride, pressure, and the constant comparison to his brothers. His well‑known disdain for weakness is front and centre, yet the narrative goes further by showing how that mindset begins to seep into the Legion itself, nudging them toward the cold, uncompromising path that will eventually see flesh traded for steel. The book also makes great use of the bond between Ferrus and Fulgrim, a relationship often overshadowed by what comes later, adding a welcome layer of warmth and vulnerability to these supposedly untouchable demigods. What impressed me most was how smoothly the story moved through these themes. The pacing feels deliberate without dragging, and the length works in its favour, giving just enough space for character, atmosphere, and tension without slipping into filler. It’s a compact read, but one that leaves a stronger impression than you might expect.