Final Rating:
Date of Completion: 13/06/2025
Published by: Audible Studios
ISBN: B0BXTVK7B9
It’s not often that a book lives up to its hype, but ‘The Will of the Many’ defied the odds and was completely captivating from start to finish!
Cover:
Writing:
Storyline:
Main character(s):
Secondary characters:
Romance:
Narration & Audio:
I was hooked from the very first sentence and the heartbreaking introduction to the main character, Vis Telimus. As the story unfolds, Vis’s backstory, personality, and motives are revealed, making it hard not to become invested in his journey. His struggles with loneliness and grief, along with his flaws—impulsiveness and a fiery temper—make his character even more relatable and layered. What I appreciated most was that, despite being thrust into the power struggles between the empire’s elite, Vis never becomes a passive pawn. He actively fights for his autonomy and beliefs, making every win and setback feel meaningful. However, there were moments when things felt a little too convenient, and Vis’s ability to excel at everything made him seem almost invincible.
Confidence, real or perceived, has a peculiar power over people.
As Vis faces relentless challenges, the graphic action is expertly balanced with quieter moments that strengthen character dynamics and keep the story well-paced. The nuanced secondary characters are well-developed, with distinct traits and complexities that emerge through their interactions with Vis. Lanistia, Callidus, Eidhin, Ulciscor, and Relucia especially stood out to me due to the mysteries surrounding them. A touch of romance also adds warmth to the story, with cute moments and banter.
The shocking twists and revelations scattered throughout the story made it hard to put down. This book also raises more questions than it answers, leaving me eager to dive into the next book. The immersive, vivid writing was another highlight that brought the corrupt Hierarchy empire and the action scenes to life. The Will-based magic system is seamlessly woven into the story and the backdrop of civil tension and rebellion adds fascinating layers of intrigue. Themes of systemic injustice and the complicity of the masses made the world even more compelling. My only nitpick is that the final reveals about the world were somewhat confusing to me.
there was no such thing as a harmless lie
For audiobook listeners, Euan Morton gave an exceptional performance. His expressive delivery, combined with immersive audio effects, character voices and accents, made for an amazing listening experience that perfectly suited the epic fantasy tale.
Discussion Questions (Contains spoilers!):
Q: What part of the story surprised you the most?
The revelation that Ulciscor’s wife, Relucia, was part of the rebellion group truly surprised me. I did not see it coming, as her position among the elite of the empire would suggest that she benefits from the very system she’s trying to dismantle. There’s also the fact that she managed to keep this hidden from her husband and even shot at him to protect others in the group! I’m very curious about Relucia’s backstory and motives.
Q: What is the highest height you have ever fallen from or been to?
I have done a leap of faith from about 10m high and been on some incredibly high rollercoasters. However, I’ve always wanted to try outdoor skydiving, and I’m really hoping to do that in a few years.
Q: What did you think about the ending?
Oh my goodness, it was incredible! There were so many surprising reveals—like Vis gaining new powers, Emissa’s betrayal, and the attack from the Anguis. These left me with so many questions! I also felt heartbroken over Callidus’ death and Vis’s dream of his father brought tears to my eyes. I can’t wait to find out what happens in the next book!
Q: Do you have any similar book recommendations?
Red Rising by Pierce Brown is definitely worth a read if you enjoyed this book, as it shares similar tropes. Another similar read is Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson.
…
Q: How many languages do you speak?
Q: Have you ever stood up for something you believed in, even if it made life harder for you?
Q: Do you think that those who stay silent in a corrupt system are just as guilty as those who benefit directly from it?
Q: Did your view of Lanistia change over the course of the story?
Q: What did you think of the academy setting?
Do you agree or disagree with anything mentioned above? Let us know in the comments below.
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