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Commissar Ciaphas Cain is essentially looking after himself, but in doing so, he looks after those he has charge over. In this good-humoured collection of stories featuring the ‘hero’ commissar, it is clear that through a combination of careful choices and circumstances, Commissar Cain not only gets the job done but he earns the respect of those he commands.
Cain wants an easy life, free from danger and has a peculiar, fateful danger sense that ironically and often humorously leads him to makes choices to avoid trouble, but which propel him further into it, often to the very heart of whatever conspiracy is lurking around the corner.
The stories feature narration by the inquisitor Amberley Vail. In her astute observations she notes that whilst Cain may not be not as heroic as many think, he nevertheless is perhaps more heroic than Cain himself gives credit for. He comes across as somewhat cowardly, looking to runaway from danger only to find he ends up running straight into it and during events he makes inspired decisions, knowingly or not, that save his comrades, the Imperial Guard and the communities he is stationed with.
In a society where Commissars are often ruthless, with the power of life and death over those they are sent to watch over and inspire, Commissar Cain, looks for a better solution. In trying to avoid the risk of deteriorating morale even further, and thus guard his own back, Cain looks to react to ill-discipline with a more diplomatic solution and often this is seen as inspiring and Cain wins the respect of those around him.
Cain himself in his memoirs, which is essentially what the stories are, notes with humour his motivations and priorities. Cain doesn’t hold back in his honesty in looking to protect himself, and whilst he is no doubt truthful, he also downplays his actions and his innate understanding of how to best motivate his troops.
I found this collection both good-humoured, insightful and a great source of material for writing Warhammer 40K roleplay scenarios, with a rich level of detail of the Guard units and communities.
If you enjoy the Warhammer 40K setting, I’m sure you’ll find this in an enjoyable and relaxing read. If you are new to 40k, this also acts a great primer, with the varied collection of stories and it is recommended.
Things you may like: Great theme and setting, good humour, good insights into effective command and leadership
Things you may not like: Brutal setting of war, not enough stories!