The Hierarchy / Will of the Many reading order
James Islington’s Hierarchy novels in publication order — The Will of the Many, then The Strength of the Few — an unfinished trilogy with a correct first book.
James IslingtonChecked September 13, 2026
Start here
The Will of the Many
It is book one (2023). The Strength of the Few is book two. There is no prequel hiding in front. Do not start with book two because it is newer.
An unfinished trilogy. Publication order is the only path. Islington’s Licanius trilogy is a different, finished door — not Hierarchy book 0.
The published novels
| # | Title | Year | Notes | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  The Will of the Many | 2023 | Start here. | Amazon |
| 2 |  The Strength of the Few | 2025 | Book two. After book one. | Amazon |
A third novel has been discussed as the close of the trilogy. It is not on this table until it is a book you can hold. Do not wait for it before opening book one.
Common mistakes
- Starting with The Strength of the Few.
- Treating Licanius as a required prequel.
- Postponing book one until the trilogy is “done.”
What to read next
- Red Rising (Pierce Brown) — If you want another school-of-empire climb, unfinished at the far end.
- The Poppy War (R. F. Kuang) — If you want a finished grim school-to-war trilogy.
- [The Licanius Trilogy (James Islington)] — If you want his finished three, as itself.
- Mistborn Era 1 (Brandon Sanderson) — If you want a finished magic-system trilogy while you wait.
- Stop after book one if the voice is not for you. You do not owe an unfinished trilogy.
FAQ
Is the series finished?
No. Two novels are published.
Do I need Licanius first?
No.
Sources
- James Islington — author site. Opened 2026-09-13.
- Simon & Schuster, The Will of the Many — publisher page for book one. Opened 2026-09-13.
Same shelf
