The Will of the Many

Hierarchy, Book 1

De: James Islington

Narrado por: Euan Morton

At the elite Catenan Academy, a young fugitive uncovers layered mysteries and world-changing secrets in this new fantasy series by internationally best-selling author of the Licanius Trilogy James Islington.

Audi. Vide. Tace.

The Catenan Republic—the Hierarchy—may rule the world now, but they do not know everything.

I tell them my name is Vis Telimus. I tell them I was orphaned after a tragic accident three years ago, and that good fortune alone has led to my acceptance into their most prestigious school. I tell them that once I graduate, I will gladly join the rest of civilized society in allowing my strength, my drive, and my focus—what they call Will—to be leeched away and added to the power of those above me, as millions already do. As all must eventually do.

I tell them that I belong, and they believe me.

But the truth is that I have been sent to the Academy to find answers. To solve a murder. To search for an ancient weapon. To uncover secrets that may tear the Republic apart.

And that I will never, ever cede my Will to the empire that executed my family.

To survive, though, I will still have to rise through the Academy’s ranks. I will have to smile, and make friends, and pretend to be one of them and win. Because if I cannot, then those who want to control me, who know my real name, will no longer have any use for me.

And if the Hierarchy finds out who I truly am, they will kill me.

©2023 James Islington (P)2023 Audible, Inc.

Reseñas de la Crítica

"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 traveling. Trust that the author will get you there in the end." (Kirkus, starred review)

“Ancient Roman politics, dark academia, and epic fantasy coalesce in this brilliant and gut-churning masterpiece from Islington.... This is powerful storytelling at its finest, and the mind-blowing ending opens the series to so much more potential.” (Library Journal, starred review)

2nd Listen

So after going through this book a second time, in preparation for the soon to be released sequel, I stand by my praise of the narrator. Also I'd like to distance myself from the idea that this was similar to the Red Rising book by pierce brown. There are a couple similarities, but beyond a couple of points, the general tone and premise are far removed from that particular novel, but in the very best way

Started slow

But by the end I was left wanting more. I’m definitely gonna pick up the next in the series when it comes out.

Very interesting 🤔 A new concept to me!

I really enjoyed this book 📖 Give it a try and you won't regret it.

Here we go again

I was excited to have another epic to dice into and I'm not disappointed in the slightest. Just like his previous trilogy, we start sort of slow and opaquely complex, and we end with some epic branches to explore. Excellent work!

at first I thought red rising ripoff...

... but it's far better than the description would imply.

School for a Roman Empire themed class of neo conquerers using latin names with the best killers described as "razor wielders"...I mean, it's not hard for people to think "ripoff" and not look back.

It's so much better though! Please look beyond this, and you'll see it too. Islington has only gotten better since Licanius and I can't wait for the next books

Strong recommend

Very strong coming of age story, gave me strong blood song echos. Islington proves undeniably that he’s not a one a one hit wonder. Thanks James for the enjoyable story and Euan for bringing it to life.

Amazingly Well Crafted

World: 10/10. The Roman culture and the blend of ancient and futuristic technology was amazing.

Magic System: 10/10. Reminded me of some of Brandon Sanderson's magic systems. it is complex and fascinating with set rules. I loved learning more about it.

Engaging characters: 8/10. my only complaint about the characters is that our main character seemed to be good at everything he did. Not a lot of failings. It didn't ruin the story at all though

Narrator: 6/10. limited voice variety, but still good.

Honestly, this book was incredible. Islington has done it again and I'll be waiting for the sequel with baited breath. It has a great tension build throughout and we are slowly introduced to the much deeper mystery/threat that lies beneath all the surface level threats and political schemes. It was a thrill. Also, no spoilers but the ending floored me. It was jaw dropping.

Absolutely great book!!!!

I loved every minute of this book and now I can’t wait until the next one!!

Worth the credit but...

Too similar to other plots in fantasy books. Ok but not unique . Narrator was excellent.

Excellent

interesting magic? check.
interesting characters? check.
interesting setting? check.
interesting plot(s)? check.

the only thing to gripe about is that I have to wait for the next part.