The Will of the Many: Hierarchy book one

At the elite Catenan Academy, a young fugitive uncovers layers of mysteries and world-changing secrets in this gripping fantasy series by the internationally bestselling author of The Licanius Trilogy, James Islington.

The Will of the Many: Hierarchy – Book One transports readers to the Catenan Republic, a place where the ruling Hierarchy maintains order through a strict system of power and obedience. The republic’s citizens must surrender their strength, ambition, and very essence—what they call Will—to those above them, ensuring a society where the higher the rank, the greater the power.

Meet Vis Telimus, a young man who appears to be just another orphaned student fortunate enough to earn a place at the prestigious Academy. But his true identity and purpose are far more sinister and complex. Carrying the monumental burden of seeking justice for his family's execution by the Republic, he enrols in the Academy with a covert mission: to find answers, solve a murder, and search for an ancient weapon that could topple the entire Republic.

With his stealthy and astute nature, Vis hides in plain sight, striving to blend in and excel while plotting against the very empire that took everything from him. He must rise through the Academy's ranks, form alliances, and navigate treacherous waters, all the while keeping his true identity and intentions concealed. Failure is not an option; discovery means certain death.

James Islington, known for his masterful worldbuilding and intricate storytelling in The Licanius Trilogy, delivers an electrifying start to his new series with The Will of the Many. His narrative weaves together themes of power, loyalty, deception, and resistance, creating a multi-layered epic that will captivate fantasy aficionados.

Islington’s richly constructed world and engrossing plot are matched by his ability to delve deep into the psyche of his characters, balancing intense action with poignant character development. Readers will appreciate the complexity of the narrative, filled with political intrigue and unexpected twists that challenge the protagonist at every turn.

The Will of the Many has garnered rave reviews:

“Phenomenal! One of the best high fantasy novels I've read in years—think Red Rising meets The Name of the Wind. I couldn't put it down.” — Lynette Noni

“Islington's worldbuilding is exceptionally detailed and thoughtful, making suspending disbelief effortless. Perfectly balancing character development and plot momentum, this will have fantasy fans clamoring for more.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“Fans of Pierce Brown's Red Rising will enjoy this book, but it's darker, deeper, and takes unexpected paths worth travelling. Trust that the author will get you there in the end.” — Kirkus (starred review)

James Islington has captivated readers worldwide with his immersive storytelling and richly imagined worlds. Born in Frankston in 1981 and raised in Cranbourne South, Islington now resides with his wife and two children in Mt Martha on the Mornington Peninsula. His previous works have sold over a million copies, establishing him as a distinguished voice in contemporary fantasy literature.