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The Will of the Many
Books of the Month
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The Will of the Many, by James Islington, May BOM Theme - Recommended by a friend - BOM (starts 18 May 2026)
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Date Chapters MPDQs
18 May Part I, Chapter I - Chapter XI Lexi (Denali)
19 May Part I, Chapter XII - Chapter XXIV Preeti (PJ)
20 May Part II, Chapter XXV - Chapter XXXVII Jenny (Sinai)
21 May ****BREAK DAY****
22 May Part II, Chapter XXXVIII - Chapter LI Jade (Trango)
23 May Part III, Chapter LII - Chapter LXI Ashley (Elbrus)
24 May Part III, Chapter LXII - Synchronism Kate S (Pico)
Guidance for DQ setters
Aim for a reasonable number of questions: 4 - 5 is typical. Please don't post too many - any more than 7 gets unwieldy!
Use consecutive numbering of the DQs for your days. So, for example, if Day One is posted as questions 1-4, Day Two should start at number 5 etc.
Don't worry too much about your questions: you aren't being tested on how clever your questions are!
Hints and tips:
- Is there a quote that jumped out at you? Use that in a question.
- What about the characters - do they generate strong feelings? No feelings? - either way, we can explore that!
- What about that plot twist?!
- Explore the writing style: is there an unusual structure being used? what's the tone of voice like? or the point of view?
Want more information about how NBRC runs their Book of the Month discussions? Check out the information here
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(last edited May 16, 2026 05:54AM)
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Catherine (Aoraki)
Eldarwen (BN)
Lexi (Denali) - NOMINATOR
Judith (Denali)
Teddie (Kin)
Jenny (Sinai)
Angie (Sinai)
Cordelia (Kang)
Preeti (PJ)
Ashley (Elbrus)
Melissa (DA)
Jade (Trango)
Keely (Trango)
Kate S (Pico)
Randomized Order
(view spoiler)
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Ooh so excited! I can help with DQ’s. I bought the book awhile ago.I am on team Aoraki
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I'm in, can do DQs.
ETA: Team Ben Nevis
My nomination so I'll take the first day (Denali)
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his other series is Excellent! Recommend for high fantasy genre lovers
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But definitely good to know!
I'm also doing a reread before I read book 2 - I'm in for DQs.(Team Kinabalu)
Rereading as well before I dive into book 2. Happy to do DQs.Team Sinai
Also rereading.DQ back-up for Jenny (Team Sinai)
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Thank you!
Volunteering for questions, Team Kangchenjunga
Volunteering for DQs (Team Puncak Jaya)
I'll be participating in the BOM for team Sinai :)
I'm in for participation points (Team Sinai). It's a re-read for me.
Volunteering Team Elbrus
PS, what is our challenge page count?
I'm in for team Kangchenjunga please
I volunteer for Drakensberg Ampitheatre
Volunteer for DQs with Olympus
Volunteer for DQs for Chimborazo
Volunteer for DQ's with Trango Towers
I'll be backup for Trango Towers!
Any chance we can know the DQ makers before the challenge officially starts, so we know if we need to start the book IMMEDIATELY after the countdown ends or if we have some breathing room? 😅
My copy will be in my hands on time. I can do DQs if there is still a spot available.Team Pico de Orizaba
Ashley wrote: "Any chance we can know the DQ makers before the challenge officially starts, so we know if we need to start the book IMMEDIATELY after the countdown ends or if we have some breathing room? 😅"I have it on a short, skip the line loan.
I like the 21 day holds in case but they had a weird skip the line for 14 days, otherwise I would have been on hold for weeks to get my copy.
I had never heard of this book before but it must be pretty popular.
I thankfully have a physical copy, but it's a big boy! And if I get DQs I need to start it asap
Ashley wrote: "PS, what is our challenge page count?"Enquiring minds want to know!
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Breakdown is posted.
Official Page count is 707
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As a reminder, if a team member did not volunteer prior to write DQs, it goes to the next team on the list
Thank you, I best get started then
Woop woop, better get myself reading
Ashley wrote: "Woop woop, better get myself reading"Same here! 😊
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We did give a break day at least . . .
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Judith wrote: "At least I can say it's a great book!"I'm only on Ch 6, but I think I agree!
I'm good with my day!
Day 1 DQs: Chap 1 – 11 1. Traditional first questions, what made you want to read this book? Are you just here for the points or was it a book you wanted to read already and why?
2. So far, what stands out to me is the world-building and not the plot. The plot is rather fantasy standard so far: hidden prince, pit fighting and secret ancient relics. What has stood out to you so far? Has it been more of the plot, characters, or setting?
3. We are introduced to the Will system through the prison and Sappers. How did you react to the opening chapters the first time you read them (even if a reread) and how the society is set up?
4. Vis is critical of The Anguis in this section and their rebellion. What do you think this says about him as a character and if this is not a reread, how will this develop across the book/series?
Mod
1. Traditional first questions, what made you want to read this book? Are you just here for the points or was it a book you wanted to read already and why?
It's a reread for me, which I actually wanted to do as I have book 2 and wanted a refresher before starting. As I'm sure people are figuring out, Islington isn't an author you can set an audio speed at high and zip through it and have any idea what's going on. There's too many details. If that's what you want, put this book down and pick something else.
I've read his other series, The Shadow of What was Lost, which is excellent but I find this easier to follow. I think it's because of the Roman empire influence and the school setting which lends to a bit of the familiar?
2. So far, what stands out to me is the world-building and not the plot. The plot is rather fantasy standard so far: hidden prince, pit fighting and secret ancient relics. What has stood out to you so far? Has it been more of the plot, characters, or setting?
Oh definitely a lot of world building ground work happening in the early parts. And early character development, there's a lot of political nuance in this so understanding how people fit and rank within the Hierarchy is important.
3. We are introduced to the Will system through the prison and Sappers. How did you react to the opening chapters the first time you read them (even if a reread) and how the society is set up?
interesting and yet depressingly familiar? Like I can't think of another magic/power system set up in quite the same way that I've come across before in a different book. And yet. It wasn't surprising to me that the people in power are doing this? I remember thinking "this tracks" :(
4. Vis is critical of The Anguis in this section and their rebellion. What do you think this says about him as a character and if this is not a reread, how will this develop across the book/series?
I think it shows some hard knocks and the tradeoff between wanting to survive another day and ideals is a real thing. You can't eat ideals. In that way, he's grown up a bit fast due to what happened to him.
He mentioned at first wanting nothing more than to join their fight, but now sees a lot of what they do hurts people that are also struggling in a different way against the Hierarchy because they have no power themselves.
Day 1 DQs: Chap 1 – 111. Traditional first questions, what made you want to read this book? Are you just here for the points or was it a book you wanted to read already and why?
This book has been sitting on my TBR since its release in 2023, and joining for the points was exactly the push I needed to finally dive into it. As someone who doesn't typically consider themselves a "fantasy girlie," a high-fantasy book of this scale felt pretty intimidating to pick up on my own. However, I’m really enjoying it so far! Switching to the audiobook has been a total game-changer for me! It makes the dense terminology and the overall scope of the world a lot more accessible and engaging.
2. So far, what stands out to me is the world-building and not the plot. The plot is rather fantasy standard so far: hidden prince, pit fighting and secret ancient relics. What has stood out to you so far? Has it been more of the plot, characters, or setting?
I completely agree with that assessment: the world-building is definitely what stands out the most right now. While the foundational plot points (the classic hidden identity, underground fighting, and mysterious artifacts) do feel like very standard, familiar fantasy tropes, the unique architecture of the world itself makes it feel fresh. The setting carries a distinct, gritty atmosphere that elevates those standard tropes and makes me want to keep reading to see how the environment influences the narrative.
3. We are introduced to the Will system through the prison and Sappers. How did you react to the opening chapters the first time you read them (even if a reread) and how the society is set up?
The introduction to the Will system and the Sappers was a massive surprise, mostly because it's unlike any magic or societal system I’ve ever encountered in fiction. It’s dark, complex, and incredibly fascinating. Seeing how intrinsic this hierarchy is to their world-building right off the bat definitely hooked my curiosity.
4. Vis is critical of The Anguis in this section and their rebellion. What do you think this says about him as a character and if this is not a reread, how will this develop across the book/series?
Vis’s criticism of The Anguis shows that he is a highly pragmatic, observant, and deeply cynical character. Even though he clearly harbors no love for the Hierarchy, he isn't blinded by a desire for reckless rebellion either; he views The Anguis's methods as short-sighted or destructive rather than truly heroic. This establishes him as a protagonist who values survival, logic, and structural understanding over raw emotional resistance. His critical view of the rebellion will probably evolve from detached judgment into a complex, dangerous balancing act where he might have to use both sides to achieve his own hidden goals.
Day 1 DQs: Chap 1 – 111. Traditional first questions, what made you want to read this book? Are you just here for the points or was it a book you wanted to read already and why? I have had this on my radar since it initially was released, but I knew it was going to be a long slow read for me, so I kept putting it off. This seemed like a good time to give it a go
2. So far, what stands out to me is the world-building and not the plot. The plot is rather fantasy standard so far: hidden prince, pit fighting and secret ancient relics. What has stood out to you so far? Has it been more of the plot, characters, or setting? So far I would say the world building is taking the main focus. I feel like that will probably change once Vis arrives at the Academy.
3. We are introduced to the Will system through the prison and Sappers. How did you react to the opening chapters the first time you read them (even if a reread) and how the society is set up? I felt like the first few chapters were confusing until I got the tie in at the orphanage. I feel like I'm still trying to actually get a grip on the society. Although I understand the basic concept, I'm still unsure of how it works at the higher levels.
.4. Vis is critical of The Anguis in this section and their rebellion. What do you think this says about him as a character and if this is not a reread, how will this develop across the book/series? I think that he has a different plan in mind long term, but he's going to have to figure out a way to at least appease them or risk having his cover blown.
Day 1 DQs: Chap 1 – 111. Traditional first questions, what made you want to read this book? Are you just here for the points or was it a book you wanted to read already and why?
Points of course! I'd never heard of it, but glad this was picked for the BOM. I'm enjoying it so far! Though to be fair (and agree with what Judith said), I had the audio on 1.6 and re-started it like 3 times. Slowed it down to absorb it and it did help with my understanding and enjoyment. But for the audio, what threw me off was that the voice isn't that of a 17yo. I couldn't grasp that he was a teenager until a couple chapters in, at the orphanage.
2. So far, what stands out to me is the world-building and not the plot. The plot is rather fantasy standard so far: hidden prince, pit fighting and secret ancient relics. What has stood out to you so far? Has it been more of the plot, characters, or setting?
For me it's all about the characters, that's my usual focus. And plot but it's still early on so will need to see where that goes. But I do agree that the world-building has been great. It also helps that I love the ancient Rome-type setting. But I feel like I need to learn more about the "Will", and the taking of "Will", and how all that works.
3. We are introduced to the Will system through the prison and Sappers. How did you react to the opening chapters the first time you read them (even if a reread) and how the society is set up?
I was all confused by it. I still don't think I quite get it. Might need to go back to that first chapter and actually read it (rather than audio).
4. Vis is critical of The Anguis in this section and their rebellion. What do you think this says about him as a character and if this is not a reread, how will this develop across the book/series?
He doesn't have a good opinion of the Anguis and is smart in trying to do things his own way. But I think there will come a time that he will need allies. Them blackmailing him isn't great, but maybe it will be advantageous in the future?
Day 1 DQs: Chap 1 – 111. Traditional first questions, what made you want to read this book? Are you just here for the points or was it a book you wanted to read already and why?
Nothing in particular, just love a good fantasy, and this one has been recommended often. I did want to read it, I'd already bought the 2 books that are out, but as we all know, they've been sitting on the dreaded TBR, so this was the perfect time to pick it up!
2. So far, what stands out to me is the world-building and not the plot. The plot is rather fantasy standard so far: hidden prince, pit fighting and secret ancient relics. What has stood out to you so far? Has it been more of the plot, characters, or setting?
I agree, the plot seems generic, although considering the interesting world and magic system, I am hoping that turns out to be wrong. Perhaps a good surprise twist? Although I'm happy with a typical genre plot. :)
I do quite find the magic system the most interesting, but if I have to choose from the three, I'd say... setting! It's a fun, new (to me) take... ROMAN? Delightful.
3. We are introduced to the Will system through the prison and Sappers. How did you react to the opening chapters the first time you read them (even if a reread) and how the society is set up?
Honestly, I was confused, so I just went with it, as I typically do. I'm honestly considering re-reading that part to make sure I understand, now that I'm further in with more knowledge of the world. We will see.
4. Vis is critical of The Anguis in this section and their rebellion. What do you think this says about him as a character and if this is not a reread, how will this develop across the book/series?
I'm thinking it marks him as standard Hero-material. He has integrity. I'm sure that will come back to bite him, but of course, we wouldn't have a story if it were all sunshine and rainbows!
Day 1 DQs: Chap 1 – 111. Traditional first questions, what made you want to read this book? Are you just here for the points or was it a book you wanted to read already and why?
This is a reread for me. I'm read it for the points, but a reread is helpful since I want to read the second book in the series.
2. So far, what stands out to me is the world-building and not the plot. The plot is rather fantasy standard so far: hidden prince, pit fighting and secret ancient relics. What has stood out to you so far? Has it been more of the plot, characters, or setting?
It's hard to say since this is a reread, but on my first read, I believe the world building is what stood out.
3. We are introduced to the Will system through the prison and Sappers. How did you react to the opening chapters the first time you read them (even if a reread) and how the society is set up?
It is familiar, dark, and complex. It isn't like any other setup that I've read, but it still has those in power using others for their personal benefit.
4. Vis is critical of The Anguis in this section and their rebellion. What do you think this says about him as a character and if this is not a reread, how will this develop across the book/series?
I think he is highly intelligent and has a complex moral code. While he seems to have a high moral standard, because of who he is and what he doing, he is forced to like to pretty much everyone. His criticism and hatred for the system comes from his past trauma.
Day 1 DQs: Chap 1 – 11 1. Traditional first questions, what made you want to read this book? Are you just here for the points or was it a book you wanted to read already and why?
Yes to the points, but also as a prelude to reading the new book in the series.
2. So far, what stands out to me is the world-building and not the plot. The plot is rather fantasy standard so far: hidden prince, pit fighting and secret ancient relics. What has stood out to you so far? Has it been more of the plot, characters, or setting?
When I first read this, it was totally the setting and world building, I agree with you there. On rereading this, I am noticing more character stuff that is making sense for what follows.
3. We are introduced to the Will system through the prison and Sappers. How did you react to the opening chapters the first time you read them (even if a reread) and how the society is set up?
My impression was and is that this society is a screwed up as any other power-driven society. Makes one really appreciate the Quakers. (Or at least what little I know about the Quakers.)
I, like others in the comments above had to reread a time or two to get an understanding of the system.
4. Vis is critical of The Anguis in this section and their rebellion. What do you think this says about him as a character and if this is not a reread, how will this develop across the book/series?
Vis is a pretty good complex character, with good and bad aspects, which I love in a lead. I will leave the second part of the question to others.
Day 1 DQs: Chap 1 – 111. Traditional first questions, what made you want to read this book? Are you just here for the points or was it a book you wanted to read already and why?
I'm honestly here for both! I picked this up now because it's the book of the month and I want to help my Tower Team get more points! But this was also already on my TBR for a long time because I've seen so many people on BookTok and Bookstagram talk so positively about it...especially reviewers whose opinions I really trust! I didn't know a ton about it but the hype around it definitely made me want to finally see what all the excitement was about!
2. So far, what stands out to me is the world-building and not the plot. The plot is rather fantasy standard so far: hidden prince, pit fighting and secret ancient relics. What has stood out to you so far? Has it been more of the plot, characters, or setting?
Right now, I think I'm very interested in the characters and also a bit of the political side of the worldbuilding but not so much the setting itself. I'm already super invested in the characters and I'm soooo curious about all of them! I just want to know everything about them immediately!!! The actual visual/worldbuilding side hasn't grabbed me quite as strongly yet which surprised because I think with other fantasy it's one of the first things I pay attention to. With this one though I just seem to be more interested in the characters.
3. We are introduced to the Will system through the prison and Sappers. How did you react to the opening chapters the first time you read them (even if a reread) and how the society is set up?
I am already soooo interested in the Will system and the structure of everything! The whole concept of people's Will being sapped and being used in the higher part of society is actually so fascinating and I am so excited to learn more about all of it! I already stopped multiple times during reading just to think about the ethics/mechanics of it all and wondering how it all works/the long-term effects! There was a part where Vis saw the floating structure and was thinking about how much Will it took to power it and that part super stood out to me! The politics so far reminds me a little of what I loved so much about Mistborn...where the politics/government structure was so well thought out and described and I feel like I'm going to become very invested in learning more about that type of thing in this book, too!
4. Vis is critical of The Anguis in this section and their rebellion. What do you think this says about him as a character and if this is not a reread, how will this develop across the book/series?
So far Vis just seems like he's super cautious and distrustful in general. I feel like he seems to go into every interaction expecting hidden motives or maybe even possible betrayal in some way, so I assume that whatever has happened in his past has really shaped the way he views people. I know there's still so much we don't know about him yet but at this point I honestly don't see him suddenly becoming someone who easily trusts others. I feel like his suspicion/guarded nature are probably going to continue to be a huge part of his character for the rest of the book!
Day 2 DQs: Part I, Chapter XII - Chapter XXIV5. How does Lanistia’s training help Vis understand power, discipline and survival in the Hierarchy? What does it show about the difference between natural talent and learned fighting skills?
6. Vis is building relationships with people like Lanistia, Ulciscor and Aequa, while also dealing with the Anguis group. Which of these connections feels most genuine to you, and why? How does his hidden past affect the way he interacts with them?
7. What do you think drives Estevan to act as he does during the Jovan Festival? How did you feel about his speech on necessary sacrifice, and what does it make you think about the Will system?
8. Vis keeps refusing the Anguis but also hides certain things from Ulciscor. Why do you think he makes these choices? As he prepares to enter the Academy in Class Seven, what advantages or new problems do you think he will face next?
9. Vis has to hide who he really is in many ways. What do these chapters show about the difficulties of living with lies in a strict society?
Nothing But Reading Challenges
Books mentioned in this topic
Foundation (other topics)Red Rising (other topics)
The Hunger Games (other topics)
At the elite Catenan Academy, a young fugitive uncovers layered mysteries and world-changing secrets in this new fantasy series by internationally bestselling author of The Licanius Trilogy, James Islington.
AUDI. VIDE. TACE.
The Catenan Republic – the Hierarchy – may rule the world now, but they do not know everything.
I tell them my name is Vis Telimus. I tell them I was orphaned after a tragic accident three years ago, and that good fortune alone has led to my acceptance into their most prestigious school. I tell them that once I graduate, I will gladly join the rest of civilised society in allowing my strength, my drive and my focus – what they call Will – to be leeched away and added to the power of those above me, as millions already do. As all must eventually do.
I tell them that I belong, and they believe me.
But the truth is that I have been sent to the Academy to find answers. To solve a murder. To search for an ancient weapon. To uncover secrets that may tear the Republic apart.
And that I will never, ever cede my Will to the empire that executed my family.
To survive, though, I will still have to rise through the Academy’s ranks. I will have to smile, and make friends, and pretend to be one of them and win. Because if I cannot, then those who want to control me, who know my real name, will no longer have any use for me.
And if the Hierarchy finds out who I truly am, they will kill me.
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Nominator: Lexi
Official Page Count: 707