A review by bookish_bonnie
The Will of the Many by James Islington

dark emotional tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Dark academia vibes featuring cultural influence from the Roman Empire. It contains strong elements of political intrigue, including an anti-colonialism, anti-totalitarianism message. The magic system is complex, thoroughly developed, and admittedly a bit confusing on one read alone. The novel is long but every twist and turn keeps you on the edge of your seat the entire time. You won’t be able to think of anything else while this masterpiece lays unfinished. 

The Will of the Many is the kind of book you have to read more than once in order to understand the full scope of the plot. With the excruciating wait between this one and its sequel, I don’t imagine fitting in a reread to be a problem (even with the book’s size taken into consideration). Even the second time around, you’ll be flipping through its pages like a madman. Not only is the plot layered and the full mystery of its world still waiting to be unraveled, but the characters are multifaceted, believably written, and overall interesting to read about. Even the worst character in the story has depth. I think that’s an element that’s missing from some other books. 

I discovered this novel a bit late but I’m grateful for that because I don’t have to wait as long as some other people here for the sequel… and it’s not too late for me to recommend it to all of my friends. 

Overall, The Will of the Many is probably the best book I’ve read in 2024 and I doubt that it’ll change even with a few months left to go before the year’s conclusion.
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