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Turesia Untamed #1
Violence & Vigilance
Violence & Vigilance is book one of Turesia Untamed, an epic fantasy series featuring an eternal vendetta, scars of grief and loss, untethered rage, and hope against all odds.
Irdessa the Undying, a renowned arena fighter in Fohrvylda, has escaped imprisonment but at great cost. Broken and alone, she must outwit and outfight her pursuers.
Basalt Kale, a failed Consonant monk of the lowest order, embarks on a quest to improve Ausgan but discovers vile secrets of his order that he cannot abide.
The heathens of Fohrvylda amass ships and beasts of war to sail the Faithless Sea and assault the monks of Ausgan, who will greet the steel-bearing invaders with elemental destruction.
Violence & Vigilance is a story of survival with dark humor, exotic settings, savage beasts, and damaged characters. If you enjoy the grittiness of Joe Abercrombie's First Law or the urgency of Pierce Brown's Red Rising, you'll love Violence & Vigilance.
Irdessa the Undying, a renowned arena fighter in Fohrvylda, has escaped imprisonment but at great cost. Broken and alone, she must outwit and outfight her pursuers.
Basalt Kale, a failed Consonant monk of the lowest order, embarks on a quest to improve Ausgan but discovers vile secrets of his order that he cannot abide.
The heathens of Fohrvylda amass ships and beasts of war to sail the Faithless Sea and assault the monks of Ausgan, who will greet the steel-bearing invaders with elemental destruction.
Violence & Vigilance is a story of survival with dark humor, exotic settings, savage beasts, and damaged characters. If you enjoy the grittiness of Joe Abercrombie's First Law or the urgency of Pierce Brown's Red Rising, you'll love Violence & Vigilance.
- GenresFantasy
631 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 4, 2023
13 people are currently reading
207 people want to read
About the author
David T. List
3 books43 followersDavid hails from the humid subtropics of the southeastern US, where he writes fantasy fiction, plays bass guitar, explores the wilderness, and kicks it with his family. He's adept at trouble-shooting, thanks largely to his proficiency at trouble-making, and puts both to use creatively to bring to life unlikely creatures, unique settings and situations, and villainous heroes.
He posts monthly news on his blog, www.Silexare.com, and is on Twitter/X, Facebook, and IG (as David T List or DavidTList).
He posts monthly news on his blog, www.Silexare.com, and is on Twitter/X, Facebook, and IG (as David T List or DavidTList).
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
March 4, 2024
Review originally on
JamReads
Violence and Vigilance is the first book in the Turesia Untamed series, written by David T. List, and his debut novel. A really ambitious novel which I simply loved, as it felt perfect for me, because it's the perfect example of how to write epic grimdark while creating characters you cheer for; if you liked the First Law, let me present your new obsession.
A story that can be divided between the two islands that are featured in V&V, two storylines that will probably end crossing paths in the next book, and two flawed main characters who will confront the powers that are ruling over their places.
Irdessa the Undying, a renowned arena fighter since her capture in Fohrvylda, has escaped imprisonment, paying a high cost, losing in the process a person that was her most loyal companion; his last words were a curse related to her death. But with the companion of Kraus, a former bandit, she will seek revenge against those that betrayed her and her men, and hopefully seek a way to get rid of the conquerors that are oppressing Fohrvylda.
Irdessa's character arc is quite epic, starting with arena fights, but ending as a leader of her men; not without struggling, with self-doubt all over her, but giving us many memorable moments in the meanwhile.
Basalt Kale has been training as an Ausgan monk all his life, but it is considered a failure in his order; he lacks a purpose in his life, and only seems to be good at negating the Consonance of other monks. Spurred by one of his masters, he decides to escape the Citadel and embark on a quest to discover more about Ausgan; however, he soon discovers that the purpose of the order is not as pure as he was told, taking advantage over the villagers and punishing them with their magic. With his eyes open by this, Kale finds a new purpose, something to fight against, helping the villagers about the tyranny exerted by the Ausgan monks, even if that means confronting those that taught him since he was abducted from his family.
Kale's arc is not as exciting as Irdessa's one, but it is true that once he starts his quest, you start empathising with him; and he basically grows into you with the pass of pages.
And these two stories in a brutal, savage world; two islands separated by the Faithless sea. The Ausgan monks are preparing for the Heathen Tide, the day the Fohrvyldan sail the sea with their army to take control of the island. It is worth to mention the amount of original beasts that form part of the fauna in this world, some of them used as weapons in war and in the arena (I wouldn't like to find an orcane).
The prose is perfect for the genre, with List creating many quotable paragraphs that only enhance the epicness of the experience. The book is relatively fast-paced, but with some moments where it slows to introduce us to more character or give us background of the history of the place.
Violence and Vigilance is an absolutely underrated masterpiece of epic grimdark; if you like the genre, you should run and pick a copy, because you will discover your new favourite book. Can't wait to read how the story continues, and what more David T List has under the sleeve for Turesia Untamed.
Violence and Vigilance is the first book in the Turesia Untamed series, written by David T. List, and his debut novel. A really ambitious novel which I simply loved, as it felt perfect for me, because it's the perfect example of how to write epic grimdark while creating characters you cheer for; if you liked the First Law, let me present your new obsession.
A story that can be divided between the two islands that are featured in V&V, two storylines that will probably end crossing paths in the next book, and two flawed main characters who will confront the powers that are ruling over their places.
Irdessa the Undying, a renowned arena fighter since her capture in Fohrvylda, has escaped imprisonment, paying a high cost, losing in the process a person that was her most loyal companion; his last words were a curse related to her death. But with the companion of Kraus, a former bandit, she will seek revenge against those that betrayed her and her men, and hopefully seek a way to get rid of the conquerors that are oppressing Fohrvylda.
Irdessa's character arc is quite epic, starting with arena fights, but ending as a leader of her men; not without struggling, with self-doubt all over her, but giving us many memorable moments in the meanwhile.
Basalt Kale has been training as an Ausgan monk all his life, but it is considered a failure in his order; he lacks a purpose in his life, and only seems to be good at negating the Consonance of other monks. Spurred by one of his masters, he decides to escape the Citadel and embark on a quest to discover more about Ausgan; however, he soon discovers that the purpose of the order is not as pure as he was told, taking advantage over the villagers and punishing them with their magic. With his eyes open by this, Kale finds a new purpose, something to fight against, helping the villagers about the tyranny exerted by the Ausgan monks, even if that means confronting those that taught him since he was abducted from his family.
Kale's arc is not as exciting as Irdessa's one, but it is true that once he starts his quest, you start empathising with him; and he basically grows into you with the pass of pages.
And these two stories in a brutal, savage world; two islands separated by the Faithless sea. The Ausgan monks are preparing for the Heathen Tide, the day the Fohrvyldan sail the sea with their army to take control of the island. It is worth to mention the amount of original beasts that form part of the fauna in this world, some of them used as weapons in war and in the arena (I wouldn't like to find an orcane).
The prose is perfect for the genre, with List creating many quotable paragraphs that only enhance the epicness of the experience. The book is relatively fast-paced, but with some moments where it slows to introduce us to more character or give us background of the history of the place.
Violence and Vigilance is an absolutely underrated masterpiece of epic grimdark; if you like the genre, you should run and pick a copy, because you will discover your new favourite book. Can't wait to read how the story continues, and what more David T List has under the sleeve for Turesia Untamed.
July 12, 2024
Violence & Vigilance is brilliant example of a well-crafted grimdark fantasy story.
It’s a feast for your senses, from the epic arena / gladiator battles to the mystery of singing monks and their all controlling religion there is just so much depth to the world and characters that David has created. We have a war brewing between two vehement enemies and mere survival is tricky, if something sharp doesn’t get you, then you’ll have to contend with perils such as monk controlled lighting, being eaten by land sharks or squashed by goatlike giants.
We are introduced to an eclectic cast of flawed characters who are as varied and layered as the world they inhabit. There aren’t any “heroes” but I guarantee that you will find yourself caught up in their struggles and willing even the most morally questionable (Kraus – I’m talking to you) to make it through.
This is a world that you can’t help lose but yourself in and have a hell of a time in the process. Do go and check it out for yourself!
As a side note the chapter headings are just brilliant from “Don’t Feed the Birds”, “A Shittier Job” and my personal favourite “Refuse to Fucking Die”.
It’s a feast for your senses, from the epic arena / gladiator battles to the mystery of singing monks and their all controlling religion there is just so much depth to the world and characters that David has created. We have a war brewing between two vehement enemies and mere survival is tricky, if something sharp doesn’t get you, then you’ll have to contend with perils such as monk controlled lighting, being eaten by land sharks or squashed by goatlike giants.
We are introduced to an eclectic cast of flawed characters who are as varied and layered as the world they inhabit. There aren’t any “heroes” but I guarantee that you will find yourself caught up in their struggles and willing even the most morally questionable (Kraus – I’m talking to you) to make it through.
This is a world that you can’t help lose but yourself in and have a hell of a time in the process. Do go and check it out for yourself!
As a side note the chapter headings are just brilliant from “Don’t Feed the Birds”, “A Shittier Job” and my personal favourite “Refuse to Fucking Die”.
August 16, 2025
Excellent dark fantasy with several strong and engaging characters and an intriguing looming backstory that takes its time coming into focus. The political landscape is complex: we've got two rival realms destined to clash, and each side is subdivided into rival factions fueled by personal ambitions and class inequality. It's all incredibly unstable (like the world we live in), and watching the grand game play out is one of the book's many treats. But it's the characters that stood out most for me.
Irdessa the Undying is forced into a leadership role that she (alone) believes she is unqualified to assume, and yet she's a natural. Leadership takes a toll on her, however. The masochistic Kraus (Kraus the Thirsty Bandit, Kraus the Rapist, Kraus the Human Cutting Board, Kraus the Carcass) is a hoot! He's so thoroughly disgusting that you can't help but love him. Everyone thinks he's brave, but the truth is he's so self-loathing that he simply doesn't care if he lives or dies. One thing's for sure: when he DOES go, it's going to be noisy and bloody! But my favorite character in the book is Bravensi the Batshit Crazy. One particular scene in which she is observed without her knowledge in an unusually intimate moment with... well... I don't want to spoil it. But the image of that scene will stick with me forever.
And then there's Kale (a perfect name for him for many reasons). I'm not usually sympathetic toward innocent, overwrought characters, but author David List does an exceptional job making Kale likeable and rather noble in a setting in which "noble" is pretty much an alien and inconceivable concept. I wanted to dislike Kale, a quietly emo type whose strength is the ability to be unnoticed and dismissed out of hand, but I instead found him to be the most complex and interesting character in the book. I wound up rooting for him despite myself.
Many other eccentric and terribly interesting side characters fill the landscape of this epic, and I loved almost all of them, but time and space prevents me from going into detail, even with the beautiful self-involved and lethal demi-goddess who can't keep her clothes on.
Based on the surprising paucity of ratings, Violence & Vigilance is criminally underappreciated. The book was planned to be the first of a duology, and I know that List is hard at work on the concluding volume, which has already been a few years in the making. My suggestion is for every fan of dark fantasy stories to read this terrific book and give the author all the encouragement he needs to deliver what promises to be an extraordinary finale.
Irdessa the Undying is forced into a leadership role that she (alone) believes she is unqualified to assume, and yet she's a natural. Leadership takes a toll on her, however. The masochistic Kraus (Kraus the Thirsty Bandit, Kraus the Rapist, Kraus the Human Cutting Board, Kraus the Carcass) is a hoot! He's so thoroughly disgusting that you can't help but love him. Everyone thinks he's brave, but the truth is he's so self-loathing that he simply doesn't care if he lives or dies. One thing's for sure: when he DOES go, it's going to be noisy and bloody! But my favorite character in the book is Bravensi the Batshit Crazy. One particular scene in which she is observed without her knowledge in an unusually intimate moment with... well... I don't want to spoil it. But the image of that scene will stick with me forever.
And then there's Kale (a perfect name for him for many reasons). I'm not usually sympathetic toward innocent, overwrought characters, but author David List does an exceptional job making Kale likeable and rather noble in a setting in which "noble" is pretty much an alien and inconceivable concept. I wanted to dislike Kale, a quietly emo type whose strength is the ability to be unnoticed and dismissed out of hand, but I instead found him to be the most complex and interesting character in the book. I wound up rooting for him despite myself.
Many other eccentric and terribly interesting side characters fill the landscape of this epic, and I loved almost all of them, but time and space prevents me from going into detail, even with the beautiful self-involved and lethal demi-goddess who can't keep her clothes on.
Based on the surprising paucity of ratings, Violence & Vigilance is criminally underappreciated. The book was planned to be the first of a duology, and I know that List is hard at work on the concluding volume, which has already been a few years in the making. My suggestion is for every fan of dark fantasy stories to read this terrific book and give the author all the encouragement he needs to deliver what promises to be an extraordinary finale.
August 15, 2024
I've had the pleasure of receiving amazing book recommendations in recent months, and the 5 stars keep landing! This was ANOTHER novel that blew me away, and the entire time, I kept marveling over the idea that I've never heard of David T. List.
I've seen lots of authors compared to Joe Abercrombie because everyone wants to find someone whose prose, characters, and general mastery of writing mirror those of the legend himself, and I feel it would be an extreme disservice to List if I didn't put his name forth for consideration.
I would say "Violence and Vigilance" reads like Abercrombie's prose with the pacing of John Gwynne. The action is visceral, the pace is steady, and the characters are beautifully realized. They're broken, damaged, vulnerable people who suffer, sacrifice, and strive for what they believe in. There aren't clear heroes. Rather, there are flawed characters struggling to do the best they can while making plenty of hard decisions along the way. This makes for wonderful conversations, poignant dialogue, and some poetic prose sprinkled throughout.
David T. List has a strong cast that's sure to live in your memory long after the read, and the book ends with the stage set for a brutal sequel. The series is building toward an international war, and in this novel, we meet the characters as they establish themselves on the opposing sides of the future conflict. With List at the helm, I can't wait to see where this ship leads.
If you're looking for something bloody, fast, emotional, and immersive, I highly recommend this read. I think it promises to be one of my easy favorites for the year.
I've seen lots of authors compared to Joe Abercrombie because everyone wants to find someone whose prose, characters, and general mastery of writing mirror those of the legend himself, and I feel it would be an extreme disservice to List if I didn't put his name forth for consideration.
I would say "Violence and Vigilance" reads like Abercrombie's prose with the pacing of John Gwynne. The action is visceral, the pace is steady, and the characters are beautifully realized. They're broken, damaged, vulnerable people who suffer, sacrifice, and strive for what they believe in. There aren't clear heroes. Rather, there are flawed characters struggling to do the best they can while making plenty of hard decisions along the way. This makes for wonderful conversations, poignant dialogue, and some poetic prose sprinkled throughout.
David T. List has a strong cast that's sure to live in your memory long after the read, and the book ends with the stage set for a brutal sequel. The series is building toward an international war, and in this novel, we meet the characters as they establish themselves on the opposing sides of the future conflict. With List at the helm, I can't wait to see where this ship leads.
If you're looking for something bloody, fast, emotional, and immersive, I highly recommend this read. I think it promises to be one of my easy favorites for the year.
May 10, 2024
Un po' meno di 4 stelle..
Libro molto denso, forse un po' troppo, ma appassionante.. un ottimo fantasy avventuroso e grimdark al punto giusto..
Il Worldbuilding è davvero ben fatto.. abbiamo una grande isola, ricoperta di fitta jungla, pericolosa e inesplorata, con strani animali, tribù cannibali, e una civiltà di ispirazione mesoamericana, ricca di caratteristiche e sfumature diverse dal solito e innovative: dal sistema politico, agli edifici, dai vestiti, alle usanze.. e il sistema magico basato sul canto che permette di accedere ai poteri naturali è ben costruito e molto coerente.. a capo di questa isola un mago potente e misterioso..
L altra isola, di stampo più classico, ha guerrieri e gladiatori, fosse da combattimento e mostri.. l esercito è implementato con animali addomesticati, come le "Orcane", a metà tra Orche e possenti mastini, anfibi da cavalcare spietate e feroci.. o strani uccelli enormi, davvero cattivi.. a capo un enorme guerriero, che si sta apprestando a invadere l altra isola, radunando soldati che traggono la loro forza dall' acciaio...
Nel mezzo altre isole, alcune misteriose, altre maledette, altre ancora ricche di strani individui..
la fantasia non manca a List, e sa anche come usarla in modo solido!! Mi ha ricordato Anthony Ryan e John Gwynne anche nel tipo di narrazione..
Seguiremo principalmente due individui, affiancati da numerosi altri comprimari più o meno presenti, tutti egregiamente sviluppati, soprattutto i principali.. è un romanzo character driven, quindi molto della trama è imprevedibile e improvviso..
Non mancano misteri, scontri nelle arene, viaggi e esplorazioni, efferati combattimenti, strani animali e mostri, e molto altro..
Mi è piaciuta molto la trama, e leggerò di sicuro il secondo volume appena uscirà, anche perché il cliffhanger finale e i vari misteri legati ai due "capi" e al loro comune passato e all' isola"maledetta" mi incuriosiscono davvero..
L unica cosa che non mi è piaciuta è che è un libro davvero denso, 650 pagine, di grande formato e piene di scrittura, (in un altro formato corrisponderebbero a 8-900) che sono davvero tante per gli avvenimenti che alla fine sono narrati.. forse si nota un po' l'approccio dell'esordiente qui, (ma solo qui!) perché molte cose si potevano alleggerire.. per me ci sono 100-150 pagine in più.. anche se molti dettagli o pensieri ci stanno, spesso finiscono per rallentare il ritmo, per inframezzarsi all azione, ripetere un po' cose già dette, o dire troppo anziché mostrare.. non in modo così invalidante, resta un ottimo esordio e un ottimo libro, però con un po' più di editing il libro avrebbe raggiunto un punteggio più alto...
Libro molto denso, forse un po' troppo, ma appassionante.. un ottimo fantasy avventuroso e grimdark al punto giusto..
Il Worldbuilding è davvero ben fatto.. abbiamo una grande isola, ricoperta di fitta jungla, pericolosa e inesplorata, con strani animali, tribù cannibali, e una civiltà di ispirazione mesoamericana, ricca di caratteristiche e sfumature diverse dal solito e innovative: dal sistema politico, agli edifici, dai vestiti, alle usanze.. e il sistema magico basato sul canto che permette di accedere ai poteri naturali è ben costruito e molto coerente.. a capo di questa isola un mago potente e misterioso..
L altra isola, di stampo più classico, ha guerrieri e gladiatori, fosse da combattimento e mostri.. l esercito è implementato con animali addomesticati, come le "Orcane", a metà tra Orche e possenti mastini, anfibi da cavalcare spietate e feroci.. o strani uccelli enormi, davvero cattivi.. a capo un enorme guerriero, che si sta apprestando a invadere l altra isola, radunando soldati che traggono la loro forza dall' acciaio...
Nel mezzo altre isole, alcune misteriose, altre maledette, altre ancora ricche di strani individui..
la fantasia non manca a List, e sa anche come usarla in modo solido!! Mi ha ricordato Anthony Ryan e John Gwynne anche nel tipo di narrazione..
Seguiremo principalmente due individui, affiancati da numerosi altri comprimari più o meno presenti, tutti egregiamente sviluppati, soprattutto i principali.. è un romanzo character driven, quindi molto della trama è imprevedibile e improvviso..
Non mancano misteri, scontri nelle arene, viaggi e esplorazioni, efferati combattimenti, strani animali e mostri, e molto altro..
Mi è piaciuta molto la trama, e leggerò di sicuro il secondo volume appena uscirà, anche perché il cliffhanger finale e i vari misteri legati ai due "capi" e al loro comune passato e all' isola"maledetta" mi incuriosiscono davvero..
L unica cosa che non mi è piaciuta è che è un libro davvero denso, 650 pagine, di grande formato e piene di scrittura, (in un altro formato corrisponderebbero a 8-900) che sono davvero tante per gli avvenimenti che alla fine sono narrati.. forse si nota un po' l'approccio dell'esordiente qui, (ma solo qui!) perché molte cose si potevano alleggerire.. per me ci sono 100-150 pagine in più.. anche se molti dettagli o pensieri ci stanno, spesso finiscono per rallentare il ritmo, per inframezzarsi all azione, ripetere un po' cose già dette, o dire troppo anziché mostrare.. non in modo così invalidante, resta un ottimo esordio e un ottimo libro, però con un po' più di editing il libro avrebbe raggiunto un punteggio più alto...
January 28, 2026
David T. List has graced us with a top-tier work of grimdark fantasy. I have no doubt that this–-my first read of 2026–-will be one of my favourites of the year.
Luckily, the second and final volume in Turesia Untamed titled The Heathen Tide is set to release this year. It’s a truly special feeling when a highly anticipated book exceeds expectations once you finally get around to reading it. Yet another instance of why didn’t I get to this sooner?
Full review at SFF Insiders:
https://www.sffinsiders.com/blog/revi...
Luckily, the second and final volume in Turesia Untamed titled The Heathen Tide is set to release this year. It’s a truly special feeling when a highly anticipated book exceeds expectations once you finally get around to reading it. Yet another instance of why didn’t I get to this sooner?
Full review at SFF Insiders:
https://www.sffinsiders.com/blog/revi...
January 21, 2026
A friend of my dad’s wrote this book & it was given to me as a gift signed. I didn’t think much of it at the time but picking it up & reading it was awesome. I’ve never read anything like it. Completely unique writing style & story.
February 7, 2024
At first I thought it was a little bored, a simple fantasy book, but I was wrong it is a spine tingling book that I did not want to put down.
August 4, 2023
I am an ARC reader for this novel and was quickly won over by its absorbing plot and fantastically original magic system (song magic!). I recommend this book if you like high fantasy with high action and low spice. It features two main characters, one male, one female, and the female MC is a total badass but with complex emotions and vulnerability - think Furiosa from Mad Max, but with a spear. The world-building is immersive, with a DEEP history that is well-distributed to avoid an info dump. I loved the fleshed-out side characters and original beasts and mythical creatures. It's written in third person present tense, and is beautifully descriptive and often poetic. Fav line: "If he's learned anything about survival, anger pumping in your veins is the next best thing to blood itself." This novel has super WOT vibes - Highly recommend!
June 14, 2024
Fans of Joe Abercrombie will adore this novel with rich world building, political ties full of secrets, and characters that truly feel real. List manages to focus on certain characters by telling their story through the world around them. No POV is wasted. David List is on a quick route to Grimdark royalty.
February 1, 2026
tldr: Peak Epic Fantasy. Think Brandon Sanderson quality, rated R.
Background:
I discovered this book when searching through contestants of the SPFBO XI contest by Mark Lawrence. My decision to read this one came from its professional quality cover and its high rating.
The Story:
The words "Violence & Vigilance" allude to the story's two main plotlines, the first being a rising gladiator sort of story set on one island of this world where mystical beasts and violence reign. The other plotline is on a separate island where magical monks use the resonance of sound in their voices to form attacks, induce lightning, etc. The two plotlines are separate for almost the entire book, only culminating in the epilogue, which sets up the next book in the series for a significant kickstart.
My Review:
It took me a few chapters to get bought in which I think happened after the initial arena fight showcasing the massive goat men. Then I was hooked. The 3rd person present-tense felt a bit strange for the first chapter (which I think is just a personal thing), then I was immersed and didn't notice it at all.
I thought the dual plotlines worked well and constantly maintained my interest. Both were so compelling that I never felt annoyed that I was being dragged back to one plot or the other. Overall, the plot and prose were flawlessly executed. Everything felt very "tight" and professionally done—the highest quality of story. It felts like someone took the best 2 plotlines from a Brandon Sanderson novel and made them rated R.
Speaking of which, per its namesake, there is a LOT of violence, brutal gory stuff with people being chopped in half, eaten by monsters, tortured, etc. There is sex, the weaponization of sex, talk of rape and other nasty stuff by some evil characters. One bad guy named Mourt deserves a mention here—he was introduced as a particularly perverted soldier attempting to rape a woman and her kids. The author did a great job bringing him to a grisly end very soon after he was introduced. I'm not sure if I could've handled him sticking around for long.
And the book's ending was excellent, leaving me satisfied and wanting more. There's not a single thing I would change. Five Raving Stars. Very, very well done!
Background:
I discovered this book when searching through contestants of the SPFBO XI contest by Mark Lawrence. My decision to read this one came from its professional quality cover and its high rating.
The Story:
The words "Violence & Vigilance" allude to the story's two main plotlines, the first being a rising gladiator sort of story set on one island of this world where mystical beasts and violence reign. The other plotline is on a separate island where magical monks use the resonance of sound in their voices to form attacks, induce lightning, etc. The two plotlines are separate for almost the entire book, only culminating in the epilogue, which sets up the next book in the series for a significant kickstart.
My Review:
It took me a few chapters to get bought in which I think happened after the initial arena fight showcasing the massive goat men. Then I was hooked. The 3rd person present-tense felt a bit strange for the first chapter (which I think is just a personal thing), then I was immersed and didn't notice it at all.
I thought the dual plotlines worked well and constantly maintained my interest. Both were so compelling that I never felt annoyed that I was being dragged back to one plot or the other. Overall, the plot and prose were flawlessly executed. Everything felt very "tight" and professionally done—the highest quality of story. It felts like someone took the best 2 plotlines from a Brandon Sanderson novel and made them rated R.
Speaking of which, per its namesake, there is a LOT of violence, brutal gory stuff with people being chopped in half, eaten by monsters, tortured, etc. There is sex, the weaponization of sex, talk of rape and other nasty stuff by some evil characters. One bad guy named Mourt deserves a mention here—he was introduced as a particularly perverted soldier attempting to rape a woman and her kids. The author did a great job bringing him to a grisly end very soon after he was introduced. I'm not sure if I could've handled him sticking around for long.
And the book's ending was excellent, leaving me satisfied and wanting more. There's not a single thing I would change. Five Raving Stars. Very, very well done!
May 28, 2024
I don't usually write reviews but this book is in need of publicity of any kind. I came across this book on a facebook group for Grimdark books. It happened to be at the right moment, when I was looking for something to read.
The book is very good, go read it you !
If you get a sample on Kindle you get about 3 hours of reading, and within those 3 hours you will have the urge to buy it, to somehow send money to the author.
The book is very good, go read it you !
If you get a sample on Kindle you get about 3 hours of reading, and within those 3 hours you will have the urge to buy it, to somehow send money to the author.
Read
August 10, 2024I don't want to score this one, because I've just been in a weird, slumpy, struggle-to-get-enraptured phase with books the past five to six months. If I snapped that and go back and reread someday, I'll grade then, because I think this one is a big mood read winner for me....but the mood, we'll, she ain't here right now.
This is some dark, bloody grimdark self-pub. Gray areas around. Some stuff felt adult for the sake of being adult, which never works well for me. I'm down with "NC-17" content in media, but like, justify it.
Interesting world building; two cultures diverted from one many long years ago, now being similar but vastly different. Magic system....exists. Yes, there is one. The three main "good" characters were pretty cool, with two of them having the potential to be an all-timer in the ranks of "best duos in fantasy". The third was a mopey emo-boy, which I like.
The main theme here was definitely classism. The lower class middle fingers high to the upper class. This kept me from full on DNF-ing. We're in an election year, people, this theme resonates harder in these days.
You like grimdark? You like gladiator pits? You like brutality? You like women in power who hate wearing clothes? Check this one out. Or don't. Who cares. F-ing slump.
This is some dark, bloody grimdark self-pub. Gray areas around. Some stuff felt adult for the sake of being adult, which never works well for me. I'm down with "NC-17" content in media, but like, justify it.
Interesting world building; two cultures diverted from one many long years ago, now being similar but vastly different. Magic system....exists. Yes, there is one. The three main "good" characters were pretty cool, with two of them having the potential to be an all-timer in the ranks of "best duos in fantasy". The third was a mopey emo-boy, which I like.
The main theme here was definitely classism. The lower class middle fingers high to the upper class. This kept me from full on DNF-ing. We're in an election year, people, this theme resonates harder in these days.
You like grimdark? You like gladiator pits? You like brutality? You like women in power who hate wearing clothes? Check this one out. Or don't. Who cares. F-ing slump.
October 19, 2024
It’s been a long time since I enjoyed a book this much.
The writing… excellent. I’m so picky about writing and can get turned off so easily. Not with V&V. Mature, advanced, intelligent, flowing. Just the right amount of detail. I’m gushing!
The story… just excellent. And so much action. Just when you think the action is slowing… nope! More!
And he goes into gory detail during action scenes, which I love. But it’s not gratuitous. Even the most grisly makes sense and fits with the story. A+
The characters… fun, interesting, diverse characters with great interactions. Witty too sometimes.
I’ll nitpick one thing. There’s a bit of plot armor here and there. But it doesn’t detract from this great book. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this book to anyone who likes a bit of grimdark mixed into their fantasy preferences.
I’m looking forward to book 2, which finishes the series. How refreshing to have a 2 book series that’s digestible and won’t keep me from my huge TBR list.
Great job Mr List!
The writing… excellent. I’m so picky about writing and can get turned off so easily. Not with V&V. Mature, advanced, intelligent, flowing. Just the right amount of detail. I’m gushing!
The story… just excellent. And so much action. Just when you think the action is slowing… nope! More!
And he goes into gory detail during action scenes, which I love. But it’s not gratuitous. Even the most grisly makes sense and fits with the story. A+
The characters… fun, interesting, diverse characters with great interactions. Witty too sometimes.
I’ll nitpick one thing. There’s a bit of plot armor here and there. But it doesn’t detract from this great book. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this book to anyone who likes a bit of grimdark mixed into their fantasy preferences.
I’m looking forward to book 2, which finishes the series. How refreshing to have a 2 book series that’s digestible and won’t keep me from my huge TBR list.
Great job Mr List!
February 15, 2025
This is really good
I really liked this book. If you like stories about creatures, warriors, battles, insane leaders and oppressed people fighting back, this is the book for you. I’d never heard of this author before, but I’m a fan. Can’t wait to read the next one. Buy this book, hopefully you’ll like it as much as I did.
I really liked this book. If you like stories about creatures, warriors, battles, insane leaders and oppressed people fighting back, this is the book for you. I’d never heard of this author before, but I’m a fan. Can’t wait to read the next one. Buy this book, hopefully you’ll like it as much as I did.
March 17, 2024
I need more!! 💜
I enjoyed the way this story was written. Multiple places and POVs made for a very exciting adventure. I sometimes had a hard time keeping track of who’s who especially when the story is written with uncommon and unique names but that’s my issue lol. I loved how the chapters were titled with the location and setting, making it easy to follow.
As I approached the end of the book I found myself disappointed that it was about to end. I’m so ready for the next book.
I used to say this isn’t my type of genre, but I’ve since learned that finding the perfect narrator has everything to do with whether or not I enjoy a story. Jonathan Waters is fantastic. Sometimes, after I’m fully submerged into a story, it suddenly hits me that there’s only 1 voice actor performing all these characters and it blows my mind. He is a brilliant narrator and has a voice that’s perfect for this genre.
This is book 1 and the story continues. I highly recommend this book.
Sisters Spotlight 💜
I enjoyed the way this story was written. Multiple places and POVs made for a very exciting adventure. I sometimes had a hard time keeping track of who’s who especially when the story is written with uncommon and unique names but that’s my issue lol. I loved how the chapters were titled with the location and setting, making it easy to follow.
As I approached the end of the book I found myself disappointed that it was about to end. I’m so ready for the next book.
I used to say this isn’t my type of genre, but I’ve since learned that finding the perfect narrator has everything to do with whether or not I enjoy a story. Jonathan Waters is fantastic. Sometimes, after I’m fully submerged into a story, it suddenly hits me that there’s only 1 voice actor performing all these characters and it blows my mind. He is a brilliant narrator and has a voice that’s perfect for this genre.
This is book 1 and the story continues. I highly recommend this book.
Sisters Spotlight 💜
December 15, 2024
Thoroughly enjoyed this story, what stands out is List's ability to blend intense action sequences with moments of introspection, creating a dynamic and engaging narrative. The world-building is intricate and immersive, making the land of Fohrvylda come alive with its unique cultures and relentless challenges.
Given how this first book has set up the series, it’s thrilling to imagine where List will take us next. For fans of grimdark fantasy, "Violence & Vigilance" is a must-read, promising much more excitement and depth in the installments to come.
Given how this first book has set up the series, it’s thrilling to imagine where List will take us next. For fans of grimdark fantasy, "Violence & Vigilance" is a must-read, promising much more excitement and depth in the installments to come.
July 28, 2024
This is really a book you don't want to miss. I was really searching for a book to get me out of my reading slump . Started several series but all became DNFs. Saw this book mentioned in a facebook group and tried it. Woww, it drew me in from the first page and held me tight for all of it nearly 800 pages . Really liked the characters, story and the world itself . Will have a hard time waiting for the 2nd book but it has a world that is great for a whole lot more stories .
September 24, 2024
Loved this book. So many ideas packed in to a grim world with slivers of hope. My favourite kind. The character development was brilliant, I was fascinated by everyones journey.
Great world building that never overwhelms and some of my favourite recent antagonists.
I couldn't stop reading it. More please.
Great world building that never overwhelms and some of my favourite recent antagonists.
I couldn't stop reading it. More please.
dnf
September 30, 2024I decided to DNF this book at 12% - which in my copy equals 115 pages and 5 full chapters. It just wasn't the right book for me at this time. I will go through each CAWPILE category here and give my honest thoughts.
Characters: Honestly, I couldn't find my self invested in any of htem - good or bad. I just didn't care what happened to them.
Atmosphere/Setting: This was maybe the best category for me in my reading. It felt the strongest but not enough to keep me going.
Writing Style: Here's where some may say I get "brutal". But I give 100% honest reviews, and authors know this when they reach out to me for reviews. I don't mind being plopped down in the middle of the the story or fighting to start a book - but 100+ pages in, I need a story, plot; I need reasons to be behind - or against charcaters. Especially gray as they are presented. I just didn't feel invested at all in anything. Reviews said that there was song magic but we didn't even get a hint of that 100+ pages in.
Plot: It felt like maybe we were inching towards signs of a plot near the end of chapter 5 (where I stopped reading), but not nearly enough for 100+ pages to keep me reading.
Intrigue: I was not interested at all.
Logic/Relationships: It was just all fighting - or so it seemed to me - with no real reason. Just as we started building relatioships, it was snatched away.
Enjoyment: Sadly, I did not enjoy this at all.
Characters: Honestly, I couldn't find my self invested in any of htem - good or bad. I just didn't care what happened to them.
Atmosphere/Setting: This was maybe the best category for me in my reading. It felt the strongest but not enough to keep me going.
Writing Style: Here's where some may say I get "brutal". But I give 100% honest reviews, and authors know this when they reach out to me for reviews. I don't mind being plopped down in the middle of the the story or fighting to start a book - but 100+ pages in, I need a story, plot; I need reasons to be behind - or against charcaters. Especially gray as they are presented. I just didn't feel invested at all in anything. Reviews said that there was song magic but we didn't even get a hint of that 100+ pages in.
Plot: It felt like maybe we were inching towards signs of a plot near the end of chapter 5 (where I stopped reading), but not nearly enough for 100+ pages to keep me reading.
Intrigue: I was not interested at all.
Logic/Relationships: It was just all fighting - or so it seemed to me - with no real reason. Just as we started building relatioships, it was snatched away.
Enjoyment: Sadly, I did not enjoy this at all.
October 2, 2025
Simply brilliant.
I find myself honestly blown away by this absolute hidden gem of an indie. Talk about fantastic grimdark.
We have two equally compelling plotlines. The cast of characters is nuanced and has some awesome relationships. There's vivid worldbuilding, intense action sequences, original magic, and fantastic creatures (Bark Sharks!!), and a strong sense of atmosphere and place.
David's writing is really damn good. Perfectly suited for the genre. It's gritty, descriptive, without ever losing clarity or getting bogged down in over-done introspection. The dialogue fits so well and does so much to build his world. I love the sense of place he instilled just by repeating common in-world sayings like "Don't feed the birds."
This book is long but I believe it earns that length. It never once felt dragged out. I also have to say that the audio narration is fantastic.
Overall, I loved Violence & Vigilance, and can't wait to continue with book 2. Highly recommended.
I find myself honestly blown away by this absolute hidden gem of an indie. Talk about fantastic grimdark.
We have two equally compelling plotlines. The cast of characters is nuanced and has some awesome relationships. There's vivid worldbuilding, intense action sequences, original magic, and fantastic creatures (Bark Sharks!!), and a strong sense of atmosphere and place.
David's writing is really damn good. Perfectly suited for the genre. It's gritty, descriptive, without ever losing clarity or getting bogged down in over-done introspection. The dialogue fits so well and does so much to build his world. I love the sense of place he instilled just by repeating common in-world sayings like "Don't feed the birds."
This book is long but I believe it earns that length. It never once felt dragged out. I also have to say that the audio narration is fantastic.
Overall, I loved Violence & Vigilance, and can't wait to continue with book 2. Highly recommended.
April 27, 2024
One of my big takeaways when reading V&V was just how crafted each chapter or scene felt.
Very intentional. Very descriptive.
When I approached V&V, I could tell that this was going to be a dense read - lots of details coming at me fast. And it is.
But it didn't punish me for it.
I'm really excited about the Turesia world, and hopefully there's more of it to come.
Very intentional. Very descriptive.
When I approached V&V, I could tell that this was going to be a dense read - lots of details coming at me fast. And it is.
But it didn't punish me for it.
I'm really excited about the Turesia world, and hopefully there's more of it to come.
January 30, 2026
This book had me hooked the entire time. And this is a BIG book. I don’t often re read books, but this one will at least get re read once. The amount of thought that went into each character is unbelievable. CANNOT WAIT FOR THE SECOND. DAVID LIST IS A GENIUS
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