Book Review: Orders of Magnitude by Yuval Kordov

Orders of Magnitude is quite possibly the best book I’ve read this year—and that’s saying something, considering there have been some absolute crackers in 2025. If you enjoy military sci-fi in the vein of Warhammer 40K and have a soft spot for supernatural horror, then this is absolutely the book for you. It blends those elements with a unique flair that sets it apart from anything I’ve picked up recently. Gritty, dark, and deeply unsettling in all the right ways.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Orders of Magnitude is that it introduced me to a genre I’d never heard of before: Incensepunk. This subgenre mixes science fiction, religious themes, and horror into something that feels both ancient and futuristic. Think high-tech meets high ritual—incense, relics, sacred rites, and holy warriors, all set against a grim and unforgiving cosmic backdrop. In this story, it’s Catholic Space Marines sent on a mission to the Moon to investigate a mysterious signal from a colony that was thought to have been long since evacuated. That premise alone is enough to grab attention, but Kordov doesn’t stop there—he absolutely nails the execution.

Kordov does an excellent job introducing the squad, grounding each member with a distinct voice and personality. The camaraderie, tension, and weariness of battle-hardened soldiers is all there, but with an added dimension of religious devotion and spiritual duty. The worldbuilding is top-tier, evoking strong Warhammer-esque vibes while still maintaining its own unique tone. There’s a palpable sense of unease that builds as the squad delves deeper into the derelict colony. From whispered prayers to decaying altars, everything feels steeped in dread.

The horror elements are incredibly effective. At times, I was genuinely creeped out as our marines encountered the remains of the colonists and began to uncover the truth behind the miracle the Church sent them to investigate. There are scenes that feel straight out of a nightmare—visions, possessions, unholy rituals—all of which hit with a visceral weight. The writing doesn’t hold back, and the psychological toll on the characters is handled with nuance. This isn’t just physical horror; it’s spiritual and existential too.

The action sequences are well-paced and brutally effective, with a strong sense of tension and consequence. Kordov doesn’t just throw in gunfights for the sake of spectacle; each encounter feels meaningful and contributes to the greater mystery. The revelations the characters face don’t just scar them physically—they cut into their faith, forcing them to question everything they believe.

If I had one criticism, it would be that the Catholic references can, at times, become a bit overwhelming. There are moments where the narrative slows slightly under the weight of theological exposition, which may not be to everyone’s taste. That said, it’s a minor quibble in what is otherwise a standout read.

Overall, Orders of Magnitude is a gripping, atmospheric, and refreshingly original take on military sci-fi horror. It’s bold, it’s haunting, and it’s one I won’t forget any time soon.

Buy