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Vigil Bound #2
Vigil's Valor
An impossible bounty. An eldritch horror out for blood. A murder that could kickstart a civil war…
After saving the people of Ironmoor, Boyd Knight thought he was finally getting a handle on this whole Vigil thing. Bounties were rolling up. Monsters were dying in droves. Plus, he convinced his chaotic pixie familiar, Renholm, to stop committing random acts of arson.
But defeating the fabled Hexblight of Ironmoor is child’s play compared to the tests Boyd will face in Wildespell, home to the Citadel of the Vigilant.
Something foul has infiltrated the city. Rampant fear is spreading like an infection and tensions are steadily mounting between the Vigils of the Citadel and the Royals who rule the Freehold province. Boyd’s been tasked by Raguel, the Five-Faced God of Justice, to put a stop to the killings before it ends in an all-out civil war, but there are powerful forces hellbent on seeing the downfall of the Vigilant. He’ll need to team up with a grizzled veteran and an unlikely crew of miscreants to find the answers before Wildespell goes up in flames.
Oh, and he’ll also need to figure out how to stop Renholm from stealing left shoes. Pixies are just the worst.
After saving the people of Ironmoor, Boyd Knight thought he was finally getting a handle on this whole Vigil thing. Bounties were rolling up. Monsters were dying in droves. Plus, he convinced his chaotic pixie familiar, Renholm, to stop committing random acts of arson.
But defeating the fabled Hexblight of Ironmoor is child’s play compared to the tests Boyd will face in Wildespell, home to the Citadel of the Vigilant.
Something foul has infiltrated the city. Rampant fear is spreading like an infection and tensions are steadily mounting between the Vigils of the Citadel and the Royals who rule the Freehold province. Boyd’s been tasked by Raguel, the Five-Faced God of Justice, to put a stop to the killings before it ends in an all-out civil war, but there are powerful forces hellbent on seeing the downfall of the Vigilant. He’ll need to team up with a grizzled veteran and an unlikely crew of miscreants to find the answers before Wildespell goes up in flames.
Oh, and he’ll also need to figure out how to stop Renholm from stealing left shoes. Pixies are just the worst.
484 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2022
304 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
James A. Hunter
97 books1,153 followersJames Hunter is a full-time ink slinger, a member of SFWA, and the bestselling author of Vigil Bound, Rogue Dungeon, Shadowcroft Academy, Bibliomancer (The Completionist Chronicles Expanded Universe), and the litRPG epic Viridian Gate Online! In addition to writing, James also runs Shadow Alley Press, an industry leader that specializes in publishing LitRPG, Fantasy, and selection Science Fiction.
James is a former Marine Corps Sergeant, combat veteran, and pirate hunter (seriously). He’s also a member of The Royal Order of the Shellback—’cause that’s totally a real thing. And a spaceship captain, can’t forget that. Okay … the last one probably isn’t true. When not writing or spending time with family, James occasionally finds time to eat and sleep.
Find out more about James Hunter at www.ShadowAlleyPress.com
James is a former Marine Corps Sergeant, combat veteran, and pirate hunter (seriously). He’s also a member of The Royal Order of the Shellback—’cause that’s totally a real thing. And a spaceship captain, can’t forget that. Okay … the last one probably isn’t true. When not writing or spending time with family, James occasionally finds time to eat and sleep.
Find out more about James Hunter at www.ShadowAlleyPress.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
December 4, 2022
insanely good!
Well, as a second book, I expected it to be weaker, I was so wrong. This was a fantastic book and I want the next! Hurry up James!
Well, as a second book, I expected it to be weaker, I was so wrong. This was a fantastic book and I want the next! Hurry up James!
May 12, 2023
4 A Bakery-Themed Death Cult Dedicated To Summoning A Frosted God of Chaos Stars
Vigil's Valor is the second book in the Vigil Bound series by James Hunter.
Again, I did not find myself overly shocked as to who was discovered to be the antagonist behind the mysterious deaths this book focused on. Truly, I still think there's more to be answered for. I don't believe this nefarious scheme has been completely wrapped up... Only time will reveal if there is deeper corruption hiding within the Citadel after this point.
I am concerned regarding whatever great evil was alluded to having recently awakened from a long slumber... What other great evils with Inkarnate Boyd Knight be tasked with ferreting out and conquering? He seems to always be up against only seemingly more powerful foes..
While this book was apparently centered around the politics of the Citadel, the Kingdom of Wildespell, and various other bodies of power, we never truly approached this subject. The story stuck to its original path of destruction, mayhem, and battle-galore. I'm a little let down, I love some scheming machinations to conquer right alongside the ass-kicking I read.
How Boyd didn't see Renholm evolving as a complicated and possibly deadly circumstance to assist in, I find myself astounded. Let's see where the dark, twisted Fae way of life takes Earth native next.
Vigil's Valor is the second book in the Vigil Bound series by James Hunter.
Again, I did not find myself overly shocked as to who was discovered to be the antagonist behind the mysterious deaths this book focused on. Truly, I still think there's more to be answered for. I don't believe this nefarious scheme has been completely wrapped up... Only time will reveal if there is deeper corruption hiding within the Citadel after this point.
I am concerned regarding whatever great evil was alluded to having recently awakened from a long slumber... What other great evils with Inkarnate Boyd Knight be tasked with ferreting out and conquering? He seems to always be up against only seemingly more powerful foes..
While this book was apparently centered around the politics of the Citadel, the Kingdom of Wildespell, and various other bodies of power, we never truly approached this subject. The story stuck to its original path of destruction, mayhem, and battle-galore. I'm a little let down, I love some scheming machinations to conquer right alongside the ass-kicking I read.
How Boyd didn't see Renholm evolving as a complicated and possibly deadly circumstance to assist in, I find myself astounded. Let's see where the dark, twisted Fae way of life takes Earth native next.
May 3, 2023
Super fun book overall. It got a lower score then the first book for me because the who-done-it story line felt a tad bit repetitive from the first book. The mystery was satisfying (a little predictable though) and the ending was epic but I felt the same way about the first book. I was just hoping for more I guess.
Plus a lot of the middle stuff was a tad boring and I found myself skimming a lot. Add the fact that there wasn’t that much action(only 3 action scenes not Counting the training montage) and it was just a tad bit underwhelming. I honestly don’t know if I’ll ever get to the 3rd book but we’ll see I guess.
Plus a lot of the middle stuff was a tad boring and I found myself skimming a lot. Add the fact that there wasn’t that much action(only 3 action scenes not Counting the training montage) and it was just a tad bit underwhelming. I honestly don’t know if I’ll ever get to the 3rd book but we’ll see I guess.
February 16, 2026
This book was great- really a 4.5 star for me! It picked up right after the last one, kept the same style of action and humor, and just gave me more of everything.
I really enjoy the sense of progress Boyd makes as it mirrors an RPG so well, and as overpowered as he is it's still balanced against people and things much stronger than him. I had a minor complaint last book about how many times stats and power lists were included, and though there was still one or two more than I needed, it was toned down and honestly probably accurate since I know I would be checking those all the time. Having this story take place in the center of all Vigil activity I think was a great choice, as it really opens up and defines the potential pathways before him.
If I wanted to criticize anything (and I really don't), it's that this story is in many ways the same story as the first book. Boyd goes to new place, new place has big monster bounty, Boyd gets partner to help him learn, Boyd gets stronger by befriending people and humbly putting the work in. There's a few more similarities with the bad guys that I won't mention for the sake of spoilers. All that to say- who cares! Every book could be the same premise and I'd probably enjoy it just as much, because there is variety and randomness in every encounter and it's just so fun to read. Plus, the hint of story for what the next book is promises to be quite different and I can't imagine what shenanigans will result.
Overall, excellent second book that almost stands alone but also pushes the series forward while keeping the same heart and entertainment value. A perfect blend of adventure and humor to appeal to any gamers who have every played a role-playing game.
I really enjoy the sense of progress Boyd makes as it mirrors an RPG so well, and as overpowered as he is it's still balanced against people and things much stronger than him. I had a minor complaint last book about how many times stats and power lists were included, and though there was still one or two more than I needed, it was toned down and honestly probably accurate since I know I would be checking those all the time. Having this story take place in the center of all Vigil activity I think was a great choice, as it really opens up and defines the potential pathways before him.
If I wanted to criticize anything (and I really don't), it's that this story is in many ways the same story as the first book. Boyd goes to new place, new place has big monster bounty, Boyd gets partner to help him learn, Boyd gets stronger by befriending people and humbly putting the work in. There's a few more similarities with the bad guys that I won't mention for the sake of spoilers. All that to say- who cares! Every book could be the same premise and I'd probably enjoy it just as much, because there is variety and randomness in every encounter and it's just so fun to read. Plus, the hint of story for what the next book is promises to be quite different and I can't imagine what shenanigans will result.
Overall, excellent second book that almost stands alone but also pushes the series forward while keeping the same heart and entertainment value. A perfect blend of adventure and humor to appeal to any gamers who have every played a role-playing game.
December 6, 2022
This is an awesome read, full of action and courageous battles fought in the name of Raguel the five faced god of justice. Boyd was chosen directly by Raguel, and he was sent as an incarnate, it took time for him to figure out what was expected from him in this new world he found himself in, and just when he thought he was getting a handle on the situation he is captured by vigils and taken to Wildespell for trial. He was called an impostor and was summoned by the citadel of the vigilant, however even on the way and traveling with a whole fist of vigils he ended up saving the day. At the citadel he was soon recognised for what he was, and soon became a hero, but Wildespell was under threat, and a civil war seemed imminent as citizens feared for their lives when some got killed. The Royals were turning against the citadel and Boyd was tasked with seeking those behind the atrocity killing in the city, and putting the trouble to rest before all hell was let loose. So with the help of his trusted friend, now a spirit, Cal and his familiar Rhenholm the pixie, and his own trusty steed Sir Jacob-Francis the cat, he attempts to get to the root of the problem. What he discovers is atrocious and such a betrayal to all that the vigils stood for, and Boyd was incensed and fierce in the massive battle which ensued. I am so loving this thrilling series, Boyd is so upright even if he is a law breaker and Rhenholm is growing on me because he did save Boyd's life a number of times even if he is still so full of himself. Looking forward to book 3 as it looks like Boyd has been thrown into yet another adventure by his own familiar!
April 1, 2026
Second verse, same as the first? Not quite.
While more chicanery is clearly afoot with another murder mystery, Vigil’s Valor finds our gun-toting spell-slinging Sherlock of Rivia dragged before the elders of his order to answer for his sudden appearance and penchant for unsanctioned monster hunting.
The story really takes time to highlight the differences between Boyd as an Incarnate compared to other vigils who have achieved their status through the traditional means, both in terms of his limitations as a very new Vigil without proper training, as well as his advantages with the Threads of Fate boon.
James continues to prove his prowess in world building with the addition of Wildespell and the Citadel, both of which prove to be bigger, deeper, and richer than even Ironmoor in the previous installment.
Audiobook Listeners -
Luke Daniels delivers another killer performance, and based on the first two books in this series, I expect nothing less in the future.
While more chicanery is clearly afoot with another murder mystery, Vigil’s Valor finds our gun-toting spell-slinging Sherlock of Rivia dragged before the elders of his order to answer for his sudden appearance and penchant for unsanctioned monster hunting.
The story really takes time to highlight the differences between Boyd as an Incarnate compared to other vigils who have achieved their status through the traditional means, both in terms of his limitations as a very new Vigil without proper training, as well as his advantages with the Threads of Fate boon.
James continues to prove his prowess in world building with the addition of Wildespell and the Citadel, both of which prove to be bigger, deeper, and richer than even Ironmoor in the previous installment.
Audiobook Listeners -
Luke Daniels delivers another killer performance, and based on the first two books in this series, I expect nothing less in the future.
November 18, 2022
Book is very well done just a bit too much profanity.
Excellent book, fast paced great story. This is a combination of a lit RPG with crafting, as well as a mystery on top of it. The only two issues I have are, no bags of holding or rings upholding when the characters themselves can step into dimensional vaults, they don’t have bags or rings that they can carry their things in? The other issue I have besides. All of the characters are excellent, except for the profanity in my opinion that could be less of it. I know that the MC is a Marine, but all Marines, don’t use as much profanity as this one does. I think sometimes the profanity can be a turn off, and the author might get more readers with less of it. if you don’t mind the profanity, this is an excellent book. Now, unfortunately, I have to wait to read the next one.
Excellent book, fast paced great story. This is a combination of a lit RPG with crafting, as well as a mystery on top of it. The only two issues I have are, no bags of holding or rings upholding when the characters themselves can step into dimensional vaults, they don’t have bags or rings that they can carry their things in? The other issue I have besides. All of the characters are excellent, except for the profanity in my opinion that could be less of it. I know that the MC is a Marine, but all Marines, don’t use as much profanity as this one does. I think sometimes the profanity can be a turn off, and the author might get more readers with less of it. if you don’t mind the profanity, this is an excellent book. Now, unfortunately, I have to wait to read the next one.
November 24, 2022
Great pacing, fun plot
So is a boon permanent, once bestowed, regardless of the faithfulness of the recipient to the ideals that originally led to that boon? Is Raguel truly blind to certain actions? Or is it more a case of their direct interference causing too many ripples, so they send Boyd, as an intermediary without full awareness of what’s going on, to solve the problems that have arisen?
I liked that Boyd couldn’t just solo everything with his unique gifts. He had to learn to work in a Fist, as well as to lead his Fist. How is that going to develop in the next book, where Boyd will have to interact with the Etheric Realm (probably)?
I am definitely reading further in this series, as soon as the next book(s) are released!
So is a boon permanent, once bestowed, regardless of the faithfulness of the recipient to the ideals that originally led to that boon? Is Raguel truly blind to certain actions? Or is it more a case of their direct interference causing too many ripples, so they send Boyd, as an intermediary without full awareness of what’s going on, to solve the problems that have arisen?
I liked that Boyd couldn’t just solo everything with his unique gifts. He had to learn to work in a Fist, as well as to lead his Fist. How is that going to develop in the next book, where Boyd will have to interact with the Etheric Realm (probably)?
I am definitely reading further in this series, as soon as the next book(s) are released!
November 24, 2022
Such a great read!!!!
What a fantastic sequel!!!! Boyd, Cal and Renholm make such a fantastic team and are an absolute riot. I loved seeing Cal and Renholm team up and their banter is amazing. The story is fantastic and unfolds nicely with a whole new cast of characters to fall in love with. This book really opened up the world that Boyd found himself in and still leaves more to be explored. Very much looking forward to book 3. I did a combo of read and listen via Audible and Luke Daniels does some of his best work here.
What a fantastic sequel!!!! Boyd, Cal and Renholm make such a fantastic team and are an absolute riot. I loved seeing Cal and Renholm team up and their banter is amazing. The story is fantastic and unfolds nicely with a whole new cast of characters to fall in love with. This book really opened up the world that Boyd found himself in and still leaves more to be explored. Very much looking forward to book 3. I did a combo of read and listen via Audible and Luke Daniels does some of his best work here.
July 4, 2024
3.5 stars.
The writing here is weak, but the protagonist is entertaining and the story is fun. The action scenes are done well throughout. The explicit game elements aren't particularly distracting and the game is reasonably well designed.
For audiobook readers: The narrator does well with general prose, but his presentation of dialog is cartoonish, which detracts from the overall experience.
Entertaining enough to continue the series, even if not one of the best LitRPG series I've read.
The writing here is weak, but the protagonist is entertaining and the story is fun. The action scenes are done well throughout. The explicit game elements aren't particularly distracting and the game is reasonably well designed.
For audiobook readers: The narrator does well with general prose, but his presentation of dialog is cartoonish, which detracts from the overall experience.
Entertaining enough to continue the series, even if not one of the best LitRPG series I've read.
November 29, 2022
Okay, everyone who reads my reviews knows I drop a star for language. Yeah, I get it. He's a Marine. It's realistic. Yada Yada. I don't care. If I can't read it to my kids, that's a flaw.
I like the Marine. Less so the ghostly companion, but he has his moments.
I won't say the books are gripping - there are better adventure tales out there. I will say it's a fun read.
With a Marine in a magical world.
Yeah, that can't go bad.
I like the Marine. Less so the ghostly companion, but he has his moments.
I won't say the books are gripping - there are better adventure tales out there. I will say it's a fun read.
With a Marine in a magical world.
Yeah, that can't go bad.
April 23, 2023
I hope the annoyances from book one don't make a repeat appearance here.
This wasn't as annoying as the first book. The annoying bits spoke less this go round.
I'm also not sure how I feel that this was a "whodunit".
Don't really enjoy mystery fantasy these days, rather just be told a story.
I read hundreds of paranormal fantasy books that were "whodunits", and I'm sick of it. That being said, I'm willing to read the sequel.
3/5 Stars
This wasn't as annoying as the first book. The annoying bits spoke less this go round.
I'm also not sure how I feel that this was a "whodunit".
Don't really enjoy mystery fantasy these days, rather just be told a story.
I read hundreds of paranormal fantasy books that were "whodunits", and I'm sick of it. That being said, I'm willing to read the sequel.
3/5 Stars
March 29, 2024
What an Excellent Series
This is turning into a great series filled with action adventure and more smart ass comments that you can shake the proverbial stick at. Hell even a real stick ! Boyd has advanced and is becoming a powerful Vigil. There is no keeping a Marine with a penchant for destruction down! As the members of this conspiracy learned the hard way. Looking forward to the next book!
This is turning into a great series filled with action adventure and more smart ass comments that you can shake the proverbial stick at. Hell even a real stick ! Boyd has advanced and is becoming a powerful Vigil. There is no keeping a Marine with a penchant for destruction down! As the members of this conspiracy learned the hard way. Looking forward to the next book!
November 29, 2022
LitRPG Greatness
This series just grows from strength to strength as we add in political intrigue into the mix and with the various options Boyd has at his beck and call this shows great action, power ups and of course great storytelling.
This may be my favourite series outside his massive VGO series.
This series just grows from strength to strength as we add in political intrigue into the mix and with the various options Boyd has at his beck and call this shows great action, power ups and of course great storytelling.
This may be my favourite series outside his massive VGO series.
January 29, 2023
More mayhem
Boyd brings his style of hellire to the mix again. He finally makes it to the main kingdom, and with help from his spirit guide and his pixie companion starts investigating a series of murders that include the death of a vigil, things take an interesting turn and with the help of his new found friends he succeeded in defeating the evil walking around.
Boyd brings his style of hellire to the mix again. He finally makes it to the main kingdom, and with help from his spirit guide and his pixie companion starts investigating a series of murders that include the death of a vigil, things take an interesting turn and with the help of his new found friends he succeeded in defeating the evil walking around.
February 11, 2023
The second book is worse.
The MC gets a lot of undeserved boons and a magical gattling gun. Constant mentioning of his junk, drawn penisses on his head and irresponsible drinking don´t improve the quality of the book.
The timeline of the secret nemesis makes no sense, the whereabout of the heir neither, The end of the book was only slightly better than a visit at the dentist.
The MC gets a lot of undeserved boons and a magical gattling gun. Constant mentioning of his junk, drawn penisses on his head and irresponsible drinking don´t improve the quality of the book.
The timeline of the secret nemesis makes no sense, the whereabout of the heir neither, The end of the book was only slightly better than a visit at the dentist.
February 13, 2023
Totally worth the read
By far a great installment to the series. As far as a magical/litrpg novel, it shines. But even as a mystical whodunit, it stands heads and above the first novel in the series, definitely finding its literary stride. Between the character progression and basic asshattery, this book was awesome to read. Can't wait for the next one!
By far a great installment to the series. As far as a magical/litrpg novel, it shines. But even as a mystical whodunit, it stands heads and above the first novel in the series, definitely finding its literary stride. Between the character progression and basic asshattery, this book was awesome to read. Can't wait for the next one!
July 24, 2023
This is another thrilling addition to the series, filled with impossible bounties, eldritch horrors, and the looming threat of civil war. Boyd Knight faces new challenges in Wildespell, teaming up with an unlikely crew to uncover dark secrets and save the city. With humour, action, and rich world-building, it's a must-read for fantasy fans.
March 10, 2024
A better mystery
This volume offered a more nuanced. While I wasn't surprised at the reveal, I didn't guess the culprit until Boyd.
I am really enjoying this series. Good dramatic tension, fun characters, good dialogue (so hard to find), and comedy. I do love a character/book that doesn't take itself too seriously.
I highly recommend this series. Tom out
This volume offered a more nuanced. While I wasn't surprised at the reveal, I didn't guess the culprit until Boyd.
I am really enjoying this series. Good dramatic tension, fun characters, good dialogue (so hard to find), and comedy. I do love a character/book that doesn't take itself too seriously.
I highly recommend this series. Tom out
November 17, 2022
Great story
But the ending was rushed and glossed over big time. It really felt like a huge kick in the bad place after that. That was the only flaw I found in the book, although in my opinion it was a fairly large one, and it warranted 4 stars instead of 5.
But the ending was rushed and glossed over big time. It really felt like a huge kick in the bad place after that. That was the only flaw I found in the book, although in my opinion it was a fairly large one, and it warranted 4 stars instead of 5.
November 19, 2022
I've rather enjoyed this series so far. The books have a likeable protagonist; he's probably a bit of an idiot (I think he's meant to be), but in a fun way. I find the humour and light-hearted approach of the protagonist offsets a fairly serious world, and so maintains a good balance.
November 20, 2022
Awesome
I know that the author can only write so fast but these books are so good iv probably read them 3 times just so I didn't miss anything and to pass time tell the next book comes out. I don't want to ruin the book for anyone so just read it and enjoy.
I know that the author can only write so fast but these books are so good iv probably read them 3 times just so I didn't miss anything and to pass time tell the next book comes out. I don't want to ruin the book for anyone so just read it and enjoy.
November 30, 2022
Great follow to
Thoroughly enjoyable romp with plenty of magic, violence and cat attacks. Good humour and plenty of fubars. Looking forward to book 3 which in just about to download.
Thoroughly enjoyable romp with plenty of magic, violence and cat attacks. Good humour and plenty of fubars. Looking forward to book 3 which in just about to download.
December 28, 2022
wow. what a book.
I liked the first one, but the second one really was where it gets going. Really great protagonist love his moral center and sense of humor. Can’t wait for the next book.
I liked the first one, but the second one really was where it gets going. Really great protagonist love his moral center and sense of humor. Can’t wait for the next book.
January 8, 2023
Enjoyed the first two books!
I am glad I picked up the first book which led me to the next one. Full of action, adventure, beer, friends and bad jokes 😆. Loved both books so far and will read the next.
I am glad I picked up the first book which led me to the next one. Full of action, adventure, beer, friends and bad jokes 😆. Loved both books so far and will read the next.
August 8, 2023
Fun second book. The MCs power increases and so does the foe. The investigation aspects of this one seemed less than the first book but the characters were fun and engaging. I look forward to following this marine from Kentucky on future adventures.
September 23, 2023
Another fun entry into this series
Lots of excitement to be had.
A good continuation of the story.
Again it's an interesting system and we'll written with a good balance between story and stats.
Keep em coming.
Lots of excitement to be had.
A good continuation of the story.
Again it's an interesting system and we'll written with a good balance between story and stats.
Keep em coming.
December 12, 2023
Great second book of the series!
Man, I was on alert the whole time I was reading this book! My attention and interest were captured from the start. I didn't suspect who the bad guys were until shortly before the reveal. Good series. Highly recommended!
Man, I was on alert the whole time I was reading this book! My attention and interest were captured from the start. I didn't suspect who the bad guys were until shortly before the reveal. Good series. Highly recommended!
April 14, 2024
The Seies Keeps getting better!
Another enjoyable installment in the series. Good mystery, good action & building, fun characters, and good LitRPG elements make for another enjoyable read.
Another enjoyable installment in the series. Good mystery, good action & building, fun characters, and good LitRPG elements make for another enjoyable read.
March 20, 2026
Another good book 2/4
Much more polished and streamlined. No more droning on about how to craft things or large sections of military stuff that bogged down the first book. Can't wait for the 3rd book
Much more polished and streamlined. No more droning on about how to craft things or large sections of military stuff that bogged down the first book. Can't wait for the 3rd book
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews