The Will of the Many (Hierarchy #1)

Baylee says: This doorstop of a fantasy novel had been on my radar since its 2023 release, but at 600+ pages, I saved it for when I'd have a good stretch of reading time. A few hundred years after a shadowy apocalyptic event, the Catenan Republic (inspired by Roman culture) rules most of the known world, building their power by draining the Will of the lowest classes in society. Orphaned by the Republic and on the run, Vis Telimus is forced into playing their game, infiltrating their elite Academy, and building a façade of acquiescence to their Hierarchy of Will. Fans of Red Rising will enjoy the military academy setting, political intrigue, and twists and turns. As Vis is pulled deeper into a web of political alliances, military agendas, and personal vendettas, a deeper mystery is revealed that'll have you excited for book #2.