Bethany Bee's Reviews > The Will of the Many

Huh. I didn't expect to enjoy this as much as I did, though there is absolutely no reason for it to have been 600+ pages long. I'm also surprised about how much I liked it, given that Islington's big inspirations for writing were Brando Sando and Patrick Rothfuss, authors I REALLY do not enjoy for various reasons.

That's a very grumpy way to start a positive review, but I promise I did like this book! Despite the length, Vis is a compelling narrator -- intelligent, driven, analytical, a survivor, a loyal friend. He's also barely holding back on overwhelming grief, and has massive anger issues because of it. It's a GREAT mix, especially when you add in his background and his kindness.

The supporting characters are well-drawn, too, with all their competing goals and plans. There is a LOT going on in this book, far more than the magical school trappings let on. I guess the length could be somewhat excused by how much is going on, but I do think a tighter edit would have amped up the urgency, and given more energy to Vis's adventures.

And hoo boy, that ending! The set-up for the next book! Islington answered just enough questions to leave me satisfied, but left enough open that I genuinely have no idea where he's going to go next, or who, actually, is on Vis's side.

A strong opening to a trilogy or series, and I'm excited to see what comes next!