Eric Appelbaum
Will of the Many builds. Much like the pyramid motif of the Hierarchy, it builds. That isn't to say this is a setup book, no. But it took some time for me to really get into this book. However, by the last third I finished it without putting it down.
James Islington has built a world that felt really alive. I felt the anger and sadness of the characters, the tension, the catharsis, not just from our main character, Vis, but much of the cast as well. There are many plot threads to follow, conflicting motivations, a ruthless game to climb to the top by whatever means necessary. You're constantly trying to figure out these characters, and it got me so invested.
For all its length, Will of the Many feels lean. It's unafraid to get the the important part, not wasting your time. For some looking for the slice of life that academia novels can be known for, you won't really find it here. This book is building, and it only needs the strongest foundation stones to get there.
The themes are poignant. When I was still very early on in the book, my girlfriend and I were having a discussion, unrelated, about the importance of speaking out and what it means to accept status quo. The next day, the book was asking me the same questions, and to the earlier point about characters with conflicting motivations, you get to see multiple views on these themes through the characters.
Incredibly well done book, absolutely gripping end.
Will of the Many builds. Much like the pyramid motif of the Hierarchy, it builds. That isn't to say this is a setup book, no. But it took some time for me to really get into this book. However, by the last third I finished it without putting it down.
James Islington has built a world that felt really alive. I felt the anger and sadness of the characters, the tension, the catharsis, not just from our main character, Vis, but much of the cast as well. There are many plot threads to follow, conflicting motivations, a ruthless game to climb to the top by whatever means necessary. You're constantly trying to figure out these characters, and it got me so invested.
For all its length, Will of the Many feels lean. It's unafraid to get the the important part, not wasting your time. For some looking for the slice of life that academia novels can be known for, you won't really find it here. This book is building, and it only needs the strongest foundation stones to get there.
The themes are poignant. When I was still very early on in the book, my girlfriend and I were having a discussion, unrelated, about the importance of speaking out and what it means to accept status quo. The next day, the book was asking me the same questions, and to the earlier point about characters with conflicting motivations, you get to see multiple views on these themes through the characters.
Incredibly well done book, absolutely gripping end.