The Will of the Many

The Will of the Many follows Vis Telimus, a young fugitive with a tragic past, as he infiltrates the elite Catenan Academy to uncover secrets that could topple the oppressive Hierarchy. Disguised as an orphan, Vis navigates a world of political intrigue, ancient mysteries, and a sinister magic system where power is stolen from the masses and funneled to the elite. His mission—to solve a murder, find a legendary weapon, and avenge his family—forces him to walk a razor’s edge, balancing alliances, rivalries, and his own moral compass.

The Academy, set on the isolated island of Solivagus, becomes a battleground of wits and wills. Vis must rise through its ranks while hiding his true identity, forging friendships with fellow students like the sharp-witted Callidus and the enigmatic Eidhin. But trust is a luxury he can’t afford, as figures like the manipulative Ulcisor pull strings from the shadows. The Hierarchy’s grip on society, powered by a pyramid of stolen “Will,” raises questions about complicity, resistance, and what it means to truly be free.

James Islington’s worldbuilding shines in this Roman-inspired empire, blending ancient politics with fantastical elements. The magic system, centered on the transfer of Will, creates a tense hierarchy of power that shapes every interaction. Themes of survival, loyalty, and the cost of rebellion are woven into a plot full of twists, where even victories come at a price.

Vis’s journey is as much about self-discovery as it is about revolution. His struggles with anger, loss, and the temptation to compromise his values add depth to a protagonist who is both ruthless and relatable. Secondary characters, from allies to adversaries, are layered and unpredictable, keeping readers guessing about their true motives.

The story crescendos with a jaw-dropping finale that redefines the stakes, hinting at deeper cosmic secrets and setting the stage for a sequel. Islington balances action, philosophy, and emotion, crafting a tale that feels both intimately personal and epic in scale. Fans of Red Rising and The Name of the Wind will find much to love in this gripping series opener.