# Violence & Vigilance

By David T. List · Turesia Untamed, book 1

Profile: https://hahafiction.com/books/violence-vigilance-10d6f44b/

An escaped arena fighter and a disillusioned monk struggle against oppressive powers as rival islands prepare for war. Their efforts to survive take place amid political schemes and threats from creatures as dangerous as the people in charge.

## What makes it funny?

Kraus supplies much of the comic relief. His shameless behavior and disastrous decisions make him a recurring source of badly timed trouble, with his dignity often among the casualties.

### The comedy at work

The jokes come from how particular people respond to a brutal world. Kraus's poor judgment interrupts grim events with a different kind of failure, giving the large ensemble a source of dark humor throughout the conflict.

### Try this if…

Large viewpoint casts, political plotting and violent epic fantasy are the main attractions. The humor suits readers who want comic relief within that kind of sustained struggle for survival.

### Good to know

Graphic violence includes torture and maiming. The story follows many characters and gives considerable space to politics, so expect a substantial ensemble alongside the fighting.

## What to expect

- Genre: Fantasy
- On the shelf: Epic fantasy
- Kind of humor: Dark comedy
- The atmosphere: Bleak
- Audience: Adult
- Format: Novel

## A few distinguishing details

- An escaped arena fighter and a disillusioned monk
- Kraus's shameless behavior amid brutal conflict

## Sources & further reading

- Book information: [Fantastic Fiction exact-book bibliography](https://www.fantasticfiction.com/l/david-t-list/violence-and-vigilance.htm)
- Publisher: [Sky Island Publishing official book page](https://www.silexare.com/sip)
- Review: [Fantasy Book Critic SPFBO XI team review](https://fantasybookcritic.blogspot.com/2026/08/spfbo-xi-finalist-violence-vigilance-by.html)
- Review: [JamReads review](https://v2.jamreads.com/reviews/violence-and-vigilance-turesia-untamed-1-by-david-t-list)