As of now the only stat that seems to help effectively in combat is strength, so just run a strength build. *edit you'll have to watch your BALANCE stat too. If an attack is colored red do not use it, if it is yellow you may get away with using it but will likely have to guard to regain balance next turn.
Another way is to learn taunt and pacify your enemy once they are aroused enough. This won't work on goblins, unicorns, and the ogre afaik.