The Will of the Many

'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

'Unsettling, gripping, timely, powerful-this book is highly recommended. I can't wait for the next volume.' RICK RIORDAN

This new edition of book one in the Hierarchy series features never-before-seen bonus materials, including a full-colour map by the author, a note to the reader and new cover art.

At the elite Catenan Academy, a young fugitive uncovers layered mysteries and world-changing secrets in this new fantasy series by the internationally bestselling 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 civilised 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.

Pre-order the sequel, THE STRENGTH OF THE FEW, out 11th November 2025.

James Islington is the author of The Licanius Trilogy which has sold more than a million copies around the world. He was born in Frankston in 1981, and raised in Cranbourne South. He now lives with his wife and two children in Mt Martha on the Mornington Peninsula.

PRAISE-

'The most high-octane, twisting and turning magical conspiracy I have ever read. I stayed up all night to finish it and had to pick my jaw up off the ground once I was done...The magic system and world building felt up there with some of the best in the genre.' READINGS

'Ancient Roman politics, dark academia, and epic fantasy coalesce in this brilliant and gut-churning masterpiece...Powerful storytelling at its finest.' LIBRARY JOURNAL

'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)