New Black Library Releases—Warhammer 40k and Age of Sigmar Miniatures

The Black Library is once again enriching the worlds of Warhammer 40k and Age of Sigmar, bringing to life two fan-favorite characters with exciting new miniature releases. As we move into 2025, Warhammer fans can look forward to the release of Minka Lesk’s latest model along with her elite command squad, joining the Astra Militarum’s famed Cadian 101st, also known as Hell’s Last. In addition, another beloved character, Maleneth Witchblade, will step out of the pages of Age of Sigmar novels and onto the tabletop, offering a striking new model that will delight collectors and gamers alike.

These releases will be available during the Black Library Celebration next month, promising an exciting event for hobbyists and readers alike. Alongside the miniatures, new novels will be available, continuing the stories of these iconic characters, allowing fans to immerse themselves in their thrilling adventures. Both Minka Lesk’s new release and Maleneth Witchblade’s debut miniature are perfect additions for fans of Warhammer’s expansive lore, whether you collect models for gameplay or are simply passionate about the books.

The Black Library has long been a source of rich stories, bringing to life the many facets of the Warhammer universe. From the grimdark future of Warhammer 40k to the mythic realms of Age of Sigmar, these novels have captured the imaginations of fans for years, expanding the lore behind their favorite factions and characters. In a continuation of this tradition, two new miniatures will join the ranks of legendary Warhammer characters, offering both collectors and tabletop gamers a chance to bring these figures to life.

One of the standout releases is Minka Lesk, the seasoned commander of the Cadian 101st, who previously featured in the Black Library’s Hell’s Last novel. Her new model, complete with her command squad, is the latest in a series of releases highlighting key figures from Warhammer 40k fiction. Not far behind is Maleneth Witchblade, a fierce and enigmatic aelven assassin from Age of Sigmar, who plays an integral role in the Shade of Khaine novel.

Both characters have established themselves as favorites within their respective factions, and with these new models, fans of Warhammer lore and tabletop gaming will have the chance to incorporate them into their armies, enhancing their battles with these iconic figures. The Black Library Celebration is fast approaching, and both the novels and miniatures will serve as a perfect way to mark the occasion. So, let’s take a deeper look at these two exciting releases and what they mean for collectors and players alike.

Minka Lesk: A Heroine’s Return

The Cadian 101st—Hell’s Last

Minka Lesk is no stranger to Warhammer 40k fans, having made her first appearance in Hell’s Last, where she proved herself as a resolute leader of the Cadian 101st, also known as Hell’s Last. This novel, written by Justin D. Hill, takes readers through the harrowing journey of Lesk’s regiment as they fight their way through perilous jungles and a dire siege. Lesk and her troops are faced with seemingly insurmountable odds, with the fate of the Gallows Cluster and her regiment hanging in the balance.

The Cadian 101st has earned its name and fame due to its relentless combat prowess, and Minka Lesk herself stands as a symbol of determination and leadership under fire. As a veteran of countless battles, Lesk’s strength is forged not just through her skill as a commander but also in the bonds she has formed with her soldiers. This personal connection between Lesk and her command squad makes them an inseparable force, and fans have long demanded a way to bring them to life in miniature form.

A New Plastic Kit for Minka Lesk and Her Command Squad

This year, fans will be treated to the release of a new plastic kit that includes Minka Lesk alongside her elite command squad. The model showcases a more seasoned version of the character compared to her original miniature, highlighting her growth as a leader. With new details and a fresh pose, this model is sure to become an essential piece for collectors and Astra Militarum fans alike.

Joining Lesk in the kit are key figures from the Hell’s Last novel:

1. Grawnya Ironbrow—Introduced in Shadow of the Eighth, Grawnya is a stout and determined warrior who is always ready to stand by Lesk’s side in battle. With her axe and shield, Ironbrow represents the strength and resolve of the Cadian 101st.
2. Jaromir – A battle-hardened veteran, Jaromir is another cornerstone of the Cadian 101st, known for his relentless focus and unyielding will. His presence in the squad serves as a reminder of the regiment’s unwavering spirit.
3. Commissar Shand – Commissar Shand brings the weight of authority to the squad, ensuring that the regiment’s standards are upheld no matter the cost. His cold gaze and strict demeanor keep the soldiers of Hell’s Last in line, no matter how brutal the fight becomes.
4. Confessor Talbeas – Carrying the standard of the seventh company, Talbeas is a symbol of faith, marking a notable departure from the usual Astra Militarum traditions. His role as a spiritual leader provides a unique touch to the squad, making them an even more formidable force.

This new kit brings a compelling array of characters to the battlefield, with each model offering unique personality and detail. Whether you’re a long-time Astra Militarum collector or someone who has recently discovered the fascinating world of Hell’s Last, this set is an essential addition to your collection.

Rules for Casual Warhammer 40,000 Games

In addition to the models, there will also be a new Legends datasheet for Minka Lesk and her command squad, allowing them to be used in casual Warhammer 40,000 games. While they may not be part of the regular Astra Militarum codex, their special rules and abilities provide an exciting way to integrate them into your army. Whether you’re looking to recreate the thrilling battles from the Hell’s Last novel or simply want to add a unique twist to your games, this datasheet offers a great way to bring these characters to life on the tabletop.

Maleneth Witchblade: Assassin of the Shadows

Aelven Fury in Age of Sigmar

Moving into the Age of Sigmar universe, we encounter another iconic character: Maleneth Witchblade. This deadly assassin is no stranger to danger, and her role in the Shade of Khaine novel by Evan Dicken is one of intrigue, mystery, and vengeance. A long-time companion of Gotrek Gurnisson, Maleneth’s skills as an assassin and her deep connection to the dark arts of the Khainite cults make her a force to be reckoned with.

In the Shade of Khaine, Maleneth finds herself pursued by her former allies in the Order of Azyr. However, her loyalty lies elsewhere—in the shadows, where she is the instrument of vengeance against those who have wronged her. After her coven is scattered across Nightcliff, a once-devout Khainite stronghold, Maleneth’s mission is clear: to seek vengeance against those who have betrayed her and her sisters.

The Witchblade Miniature: A Stunning New Release

Maleneth Witchblade’s new miniature is a stunning representation of the character’s deadly grace and ferocity. The model features intricate details that capture her aelven elegance while also showcasing her brutal combat prowess. Armed with her signature weapons, the Witchblade is a striking model that will be a showstopper in any Age of Sigmar collection.

As a fan-favorite character, Maleneth Witchblade’s debut on the tabletop will certainly excite collectors, especially those who have followed her journey through the pages of Shade of Khaine. Her unique background and motivations make her an intriguing addition to any Daughters of Khaine army, and she is sure to spark the imagination of players who enjoy combining rich lore with their tactical battles.

Pairing with Gotrek Gurnisson

Maleneth Witchblade is closely tied to Gotrek Gurnisson, the famed slayer from the Gotrek and Felix series, and for those who already collect Gotrek’s miniatures, the Maleneth Witchblade model is the perfect companion. The two characters share a long and storied history, and having them together on the battlefield will provide a rich narrative backdrop for any Age of Sigmar game.

The Black Library Celebration: A Time to Celebrate Warhammer Lore

The release of both Minka Lesk and Maleneth Witchblade will coincide with the Black Library Celebration next month. This event is an annual highlight for Warhammer fans, offering special releases, exclusive content, and exciting new books. During the celebration, there will be a week of special coverage on Warhammer Community, showcasing the miniatures, books, and events surrounding the launch.

Fans will have the chance to pre-order these new releases, and there will be in-store events that provide further opportunities to celebrate the launch. Whether you’re a collector, a player, or simply a lover of Warhammer’s expansive lore, the Black Library Celebration promises to be an exciting occasion filled with new releases, exclusive content, and plenty of opportunities to engage with the Warhammer community.

Conclusion:

The release of Minka Lesk and her command squad for Warhammer 40,000, alongside Maleneth Witchblade for Age of Sigmar, marks a thrilling new chapter for both the Astra Militarum and the Daughters of Khaine. These new miniatures not only provide stunning models for collectors but also allow players to integrate these iconic characters into their tabletop games. With the upcoming Black Library Celebration, fans will be able to immerse themselves even further in the stories of these characters while also getting the chance to celebrate the wider Warhammer universe. Whether you’re a veteran hobbyist or new to the scene, these releases are sure to be a highlight of 2025’s Warhammer calendar.