The Will of the Many by James Islington

Genre: Fantasy, Epic Fantasy, Political Intrigue, Power & Survival The Will of the Many by James Islington is the first book in The Hierarchy series—a gripping, large-scale fantasy filled with political scheming, moral dilemmas, and a fascinating system of power rooted in the “Will” of the people. Synopsis In a vast empire where strength and status are defined by the Will—the collective power transferred from the lower ranks to those above—ambition, loyalty, and betrayal shape every life. When Vis Telimus, a young man with a tragic past, is forced to infiltrate one of the empire’s most prestigious academies, he must navigate deadly rivalries, hidden agendas, and the suffocating weight of authority. As secrets unravel, Vis discovers that the empire’s foundations may not be as stable as they appear—and the cost of survival might mean surrendering his own identity. Key Features & Themes

• Unique Magic System: A hierarchy of power fueled by the “Will” of the many, flowing upward to the elite.
• Political Intrigue & Schemes: Layers of betrayal, manipulation, and empire-spanning conspiracies.
• Academy Setting: Rivalries, alliances, and survival in a brutal, competitive environment.
• Moral Complexity: Questions of loyalty, identity, and how much one should sacrifice for power.
• Epic Worldbuilding: Expansive empire, rich cultures, and high-stakes tension.

Why Read It?

• Perfect for fans of Red Rising or The Name of the Wind.
• Blends epic worldbuilding with sharp character-driven drama.
• Explores power, control, and resistance in a system designed to exploit.
• Delivers a mix of action, mystery, and thought-provoking moral dilemmas.

The Will of the Many is a masterful beginning to James Islington’s new series, offering an intense blend of epic fantasy, political intrigue, and deeply human struggles in a world where survival depends on the strength—and submission—of the many.