The Will of the Many

James Islington’s The Will of the Many (Book One of The Hierarchy series), published in Arabic by Wasm Publications, is a masterclass in epic world-building, political intrigue, and dark academia. Set in the Catenan Republic—a formidable empire modeled after ancient Rome—the world operates on a rigid, predatory system known as the Hierarchy, wherein lower-tier citizens must cede a fraction of their physical and cognitive power, termed "Will," to empower the ruling elite. The story follows Vis Telimus, an exiled prince hiding his true identity after the brutal execution of his royal family by the Republic. Infiltrating the elite Catenan Academy as an undercover operative, Vis must navigate lethal academic trials, shifting political factions, and deadly betrayals. To survive and uncover an ancient mystery that could break the Hierarchy’s stranglehold, Vis must master the Academy's games without ever surrendering his own Will to the empire he secretly vows to bring down.

It offers a gripping, high-stakes narrative featuring a brilliantly calculating protagonist, complex world-building, and sharp social commentary on power, authority, and individual autonomy.

Ideal for fans of epic fantasy, dark academia, political thrillers, anti-dystopian fiction, and readers who enjoy works like Pierce Brown's Red Rising or Patrick Rothfuss's The Name of the Wind.