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

5.0

This book 100% lived up to the hype--it might be my favorite fantasy academy that I've read so far as it was incredibly interesting but unique. All I knew going into the book was that it was similar to Red Rising, and that is an apt description, but beyond the "main character disguises himself and joins an elite academy", the books are very different. The types of challenges in the academy are vastly different, as are the peer interactions and Vis and Darrow's backgrounds (Vis' felt so convenient with how he was amazing at absolutely everything, whereas Darrow had to work extra hard to gain his skills). 

I loved the entire book as I slowly learned more about Vis, Ulcisor, the Angius, the Academy, and Vis' friends and peers. I enjoyed the Academy and how Vis had to outsmart everyone to progress in it while still investigating Ulcisor's sketchy ruins. But, the ending felt so out of left field that it was a bit off-putting to me and left me with so many questions. I couldn't even understand what was going on until I read some Reddit analysis posts about the ending, it was that confusing. I will definitely read book #2 but I worry that I won't love it as much as this book.