Right of Retribution 2

Right of Retribution #2

by William D. Arand

Warner spent his days like no one else.

He got up, went to work, forced people to balance their scales— either through taking lives or forced penance— went home, spent time with his daughter, slept with one of his girlfriends, and went to sleep.

Only to repeat the pattern over and over and over.

Life was the furthest thing from mundane that it could ever be.

Warner’s life had changed when his daughter had been nearly fatally injured, plunging Warner into a world of paranormal creatures, monsters, and magic that he’d never known existed.

Then he came out the other side as the arbiter of Retribution. He now personally hands out justice to any and all he comes across.

Warner has been using his powers considerably since then. Cutting down all who would stand before him and attempt to stop him in his personal crusade.

The price he is forced to pay for such power is catching up to him. Catching up to him and forcing him to pay... with interest.

Spending more of his time sick and wretched after overuse of the power, he must now begin to wonder about the balance in his own life.

Each time he finds himself throwing up golden vomit that turns to blood, he has to wonder just how much damage he is causing to his own body.

Except a great change in the world is coming. One that will force a reckoning no one wishes, with Warner becoming a massive lightning rod for it.

The very world trembles with the actions he’s taken, and quails in fright at what he must do next.

Warning and minor spoiler: This novel contains graphic violence, undefined relationships/harem, unconventional opinions/beliefs, and a hero who is as tactful as a dog at a cat show. Read at your own risk.

Genres: Fantasy, Harem, Urban Fantasy, Magic, Smut, Werewolves, Angels

383 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 6, 2021

Reviews

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author is one of the short list whose new releases I will attempt to read day-one. Successfully executed in this case, and worth the time spent as usual.

A 4.5, as it seemed to start a bit slow, but got rolling by mid-book. It also tied even more Runnerverse threads together, as more of the players in the upcoming Gotterdammerung of Runner v. Zeus were solidified in place. I was pleased to see that the snapshot of Warner from one of the other series was not where this ended up. I look forward to the next book, and I understand that Monster's Mercy 3 is in the hopper.

[Akshay · Rating 2 out of 5]

Right of Retribution 2, the second book in William D. Arand’s *Right of Retribution* series, picks up where the first book left off and continues the grim, vengeance-driven journey of its protagonist, Felix. While Arand delivers the same hard-hitting, action-packed narrative that fans have come to expect, the sequel suffers from several key issues, making it a frustrating follow-up to a series with strong initial potential.

Plot & Structure

At its core, Right of Retribution 2 is a revenge tale, with Felix continuing to pursue those responsible for destroying his life. The premise is simple and effective—a man wronged seeks retribution in a brutal, unforgiving world. However, the simplicity of the plot begins to feel repetitive as the book progresses. The story structure follows a predictable pattern: Felix encounters an obstacle, overcomes it in a highly violent fashion, and moves on to the next target. While the action scenes are well-written, the lack of narrative variety causes the pacing to drag, especially in the middle sections where the plot feels like it’s going through the motions.

Thematically, the book doesn’t evolve much beyond the first installment. Felix’s quest for revenge is still the driving force, but the emotional weight of his journey feels diminished. The moral questions raised in the first book about justice, revenge, and the toll of violence are largely pushed to the background in favor of relentless action and brutality. This leaves the story feeling one-dimensional, missing an opportunity to deepen its philosophical or emotional stakes.

Character Development

Felix, as the protagonist, remains a compelling anti-hero, but his development in this installment is minimal. In the first book, we saw glimpses of his internal struggle, as he grappled with the consequences of his violent quest for revenge. However, in Right of Retribution 2, Felix seems to fall into a more static role. He becomes less of a fully realized character and more of a vessel for violence and vengeance. His interactions with other characters are limited, and we rarely see moments of introspection or growth. This makes it difficult to connect with him on a deeper level, and by the end of the book, Felix feels more like a force of nature than a human being with complex emotions.

The supporting characters in the story are similarly underdeveloped. Many of them serve as little more than plot devices, existing solely to push Felix’s story forward. Whether they’re allies or enemies, they lack depth and motivation. This is especially frustrating because some of the characters introduced in this book have the potential to add nuance to the narrative, but they’re never fully explored. As a result, the emotional stakes of the story feel low, because the relationships between the characters lack weight and authenticity.

World-Building

One of the strengths of the first Right of Retribution book was its grim and gritty world. Arand does a solid job of maintaining this tone in the sequel, but there’s little in the way of expansion or exploration. The setting continues to be a dark, dystopian landscape, filled with corrupt leaders and violent factions, but it feels underutilized. We don’t get a deeper sense of how this world operates or how the various factions fit into the larger picture. There are hints at a broader conflict and more complex political dynamics, but they’re never fully explored.

This lack of world-building becomes particularly evident when Felix’s quest takes him into new areas. These locations are often described in broad, sweeping terms, but they lack the richness and detail needed to make them feel immersive. As a result, the world of Right of Retribution 2 feels static and confined, despite the potential for greater complexity.

Writing Style

William D. Arand’s writing style is direct and unflinching, which works well for the action-heavy sequences. His descriptions of combat are vivid and visceral, capturing the brutality of Felix’s quest for revenge. However, the relentless focus on action comes at the cost of character depth and thematic exploration. The book is filled with long stretches of violence, but there’s little in the way of reflection or quieter moments to balance the pacing.

Dialogue in Right of Retribution 2 can feel stilted at times, with many characters speaking in a similar tone. There’s a lack of distinction between voices, which makes conversations feel less dynamic and often one-dimensional. While the book excels in delivering fast-paced action, it struggles in quieter moments where character interactions could add emotional depth to the story.

Final Thoughts

Right of Retribution 2 is a serviceable sequel for fans of grimdark, action-heavy fantasy, but it falls short of the potential established in the first book. The relentless focus on violence and vengeance comes at the expense of character development, emotional depth, and world-building. Felix, while still a compelling anti-hero, stagnates in this installment, and the supporting characters feel like little more than background noise.

For readers looking for a brutal, action-packed revenge story, this book will likely satisfy. However, for those hoping for deeper exploration of the themes and characters introduced in the first installment, Right of Retribution 2 may feel like a missed opportunity. It’s a book that knows its audience and delivers on its promise of gritty violence, but it doesn’t push the boundaries of its genre in any meaningful way.

[Donny · Rating 4 out of 5]

We get more of Warner's work righting the scales in this volume. We also get some more info on the health issues his powers cause as well as a possible solution. We see the return of some other characters hinted at before., a confirmation on Warner's origins and some copious amounts of action. I am eagerly awaiting the third volume of this trilogy.

[Monty · Rating 1 out of 5]

Story is daft characters are idiots or just unbelievable, and continuity errors along with logic flaws are legion.

I thought the first book in this trilogy could only be improved upon by a second and third book seeing as it was rather bad but damn if this second book doesn't hit a new low.

Currently DNF'd.. I just had to put it aside. If I ever pick it up again it will probably be some time in the future when enough time has passed for me to have forgotten how bad I found this. Either that or the story verse will have come to a wrapped up end with me reading a detailed synopsis. Something which is more likely than me putting up with the poor writing/execution of more of these books.

[Skye Kahoali'i · Rating 5 out of 5]

OtherLife...continues

And does it ever!!!

I look forward almost breathlessly to each new installment of any and every series that the trio of names this author publishes under, as I have seen no other who integrates all the different series so seamlessly with overlapping and interwoven characters and stories.

I love how the insertion of at many times a single word, let alone name, phrase or sentence pulls in a story line from one of the other series...giving the reader a further glimpse at the massiveness of this created universe of planar and parrallel universes. At the same time, this seems to be so metaphysical in its treatment of the foibles of humanity versus the very practical conjectures that would surround the revealed existence of all
that humans have imagined as existing in the paranormal and supernatural.

In a very real way, the trio has brought out in very thoughtful ways, through the narration of very exciting and emotionally stirring adventure stories...a very decidedly spiritual yet alternative vision of humanity's place in this particular reality...so wondrous in its own right but feeling ripe for being so much more. If we could just muster the energy to create our own universes to exist in as the progenitors and characters of The OtherLife Universe have...or at least open the portals that will take us there.

[Ben · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF - Did not finish

I've enjoyed William D Arand's books in the past, but this one didn't really do it for me. I got about 43% through before I decided to hang it up. Amanda is putting more work into tying his universe together than on the people in this book.

[Curtis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent, Incredible, and Existential

Firstly, another great story by Arand, filled with the plot, dialogue, action, humor, and characterization he does so well. If (like me) you’re a fan, then you’re going to love this. More Warner, more visits to / from characters we already know and (mostly) love, as well as great progression on not just this series plot, but on the great overarching super-plot. We even get to see behind the curtain a bit to understand more of that. Even as a book just on its own there’s a big thumbs up.

As for the super-plot, I have to admit that the family relationships are too complex now to keep track of. I need a wall chart with yarn strings connecting people and notes so that I can Kanban the hell out of the thing. That also includes an overall timeline of what happened when to who. It’s not that I don’t like it - I do - but it’s hard to see the whole picture. Maybe I need to re-read all the “Norwood worlds” books again to refresh my viewpoint. Oh gosh: twist my arm...

Lastly - and maybe I missed it - but I’d really like to know how / why some of these characters turned. Some of them are mentioned waaay back in the first trilogy, and they’re all loyal at that point. Perhaps we’ll learn more about that later.

Exciting stuff, and heartily recommended (16+)

[Jacob Lane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Worth the wait

Maybe my new favorite in this series I definitely my new favorite of his series.
This book was top tier every word every page start to finish so much happened, such a massive amount of character growth, world growth, it was just fantastic. I think this book series, right of retribution, is allowing the author to really show his writing chops the most of any series he's written so far I get the impression that he relates to the main character of the story much more strongly than any he's ever ridden, and it is allowing the story to flourish in away none of the others have. And I love all the other books

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wahoo!!!

WOW, just WOW!!! There is to many things that made me smile and feel all happy inside. If your a fan of Mr."Whatever he wants to call himself" Arand, then you'll know this to be true. We get so many wonderful and belove characters coming to this book from their own series. Gus, Samarixis, just the mention on the "Aunts" was enough, but yeah, and so many more, don't wanna spoil the fun. So, what are you waiting for, start reading, read them all you'll thank me later. Oh, and Mr. Arand please keep writing, I find eminence pleasure in reading your books, regardless of your chosen pen name at the time. Cheers!

[Kevin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fun and exciting story in this author’s universe

This book only needs Right of Retribution 1, and out of the recent books dealing with the Prime Plane it’s the absolute furthest in the timeline, touching on parts of Swing Shift 3 and Incubus 3. I wasn’t sure how I’d feel about Warren as he’s the least likeable of the three Prime Plane protagonists, but his story is a very nice alternative to Gus and Sam. More revelations are abound and everything is tied up neatly in the end. Perhaps too neatly, as the big meta-plot of the universe continues to bare down on all involved.

[Tim Nielsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A action-packed conclusion to a great story

The crazy things and impossible things that happen are continuing in this second part of the story. Interesting things about this world continue to unfold. The things the main character experiences and does no man should have to endure. The story has a lot of twists and turns but it makes sense in the end and I for one were happy about the ending. Would love to hear a little bit more about what goes on in this world maybe in another story.

[Charles Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Retribution, Vengeance, Or Redemption; Which Would You Want More?

That is the question which bedevils Warner James. He's been handed the mantle of Retribution, but, as a mortal man, can he continue to wield that power? Will he fall to the same errors as Warin, The Archangel of Retribution did millennia before? Or will he find another path? And new ways to screw up his future?

This novel, and the trilogy of which it is a, may be of interest to fans of the LitRPG genre and to those who enjoy playing RPGS.

[Rodger Nelson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alright, I have one major issue with this book. There seems to be some missing time in this book. When reading it after Swing Shift 3. Since in that book there was a scene were Gus came up and saw Warner in a wheelchair all sick and looking like he was going to die. Yet in this book there is none of that. So I feel there is some missing time some where.

Other than that issue this book was awesome. That ending though.. Pretty hilarious and kind of a "wtf" moment.

[Sword Guy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a ride

First, let me get this off my chest. You may call him impulsive. I call him an idiot. They are several examples, but he never thinks about calling his friend in the Fed to see if the hyenas is a trap.

Moving on, the last third of the book is amazing. Some things are still confusing. I'll have to reread Gus or Sam's book to remember about Warner's golem parents. This book ties heavily into several other series. Love it.

[Nick Brady · Rating 5 out of 5]

It keeps getting better

I’m amazed that the worlds Arand has created connect so elegantly. The ability as a writer on display in his universe hooked me from my first read when I discovered Otherlife. Right of Retribution 2 is an excellent continuation of Warner’s story. I loved the cameos and probably missed a few but Arand is one of a few authors I can read over and over and never get tired of the stories.

[Douglas Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

well worth the wait

It had been awhile since I had read book 1 so I read it again before book 2. This made it easier to follow along because I know that this author connects different series together.The series (Swing Shift)has always been a favorite of mine so it was neat that some of the swing shift characters were either mentioned or actually in this book. This author is so good in the way he weaves the characters of a number of his books together. Can’t wait for number 3

[Ryan Mangrum · Rating 3 out of 5]

The first 23% or so of the book is a snoozefest. The MC spends a bunch of time romancing his harem and going over relationship stuff that leads nowhere. It's all just gratuitous sex scenes. The next 25% is finally getting into the meat of the story as the MC becomes increasingly violent and becomes more about vengeance and less about justice and retribution. The last half of the book is fast-paced and enjoyable, if a little confusing. Characters are introduced that have seeming importance but have very little in way of background; it feels like there are lot of other books not directly tied to book. I know some of are from the Incubus Inc. series, but it's very confusing and I dislike when authors assume you've read everything in their catalog before reaching the book you're reading.

[Kevin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I put this off for a while. I'm not really interested in the protagonist compared to the other books.

I really wonder how this world the author made would end. Seeing as everything takes place in a server / multiple servers. I guess a plainar Lord is someone with some administrator privileges that has access to their own world (Server)?

I guess I keep keeping on with the books.

3/5 Stars

[Alan K · Rating 5 out of 5]

intertwining tighter with his other books

How the heck you are supposed to understand what is going on without reading his other books I don’t know. The story intertwined with characters from the other series especially Gus from the Swing Shift books. So would recommend at least reading that series first. Really fun read, harem aspects but no sex scenes which are characteristic of his other books he writes as Randi Darren.

[Eric Bertone · Rating 5 out of 5]

The plot thickens

I loved this book. Another great from Darrin as he made Warner go through so much growth. I also loved seeing more characters plotlines come together. Only complaint is I still feel a little out of it given how big this universe is. Seems like my memory is spotty occasionally

[Alan Clements · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, AMAZING

As sequels go this is an awesome one indeed. Picking up where the initial book left off Warner continues to grow in his power but not without consequences. The cameos from other series is a nice touch and even fleshes them out a little more. Brilliant as always!

[Marcus Fluellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great addition

Great addition to the storyline. I can’t wait for the next one and to see what happens with Warner in the rest of the universe. I do love the brief views of characters from other series in the universe that give further insight into who they are and their significance to the overall storyline of the universe(can’t wait for AVENGERS).

[Jason · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Stories move further together

The universe (server?) that Mr. Arend put together is starting to pull all of its threads tight. Not much harem action in this one - mostly story, but a great read nonetheless, and reveals a mystery from an adjacent series

[Sergey Kravtsov · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely amazing

Great story. So many thing revealed about the wider universe and the overall plot. Characters are great, complex and loveable. Next book cannot arrive any faster and hope you will enjoy it as much as I did :D

[Matthew Domenic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

It's nice to finally read another william Arand book. I was waiting for this one, I like how the MC has a child of his own. Please don't wait a year before you release the next one

[michael hooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

I love this series universe but man it can get confusing. Not that it's a problem but I have had reread the whole shebang several times just to keep up with who is doing what to whom and it's awesome. Can't wait for more books and there had better be more books.

[Carl Kolvek · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Joy to Read!

I think my favorite part is the endings of each book and the laugh they give me and leave me wanting more! Ok not my favorite, but definitely one reason I love your books!

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Read

This was a great continuation of the story and brought in elements of his other trilogies that enhanced the world building. Highly recommend the entire extended library of stories.

[Michael Longenecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

A powerful sequel!

With all the twists and turns this universe takes, I thought I wouldn't be surprised anymore. This one, though, is a wild ride through surprise after surprise, each drawing out bigger reactions than the last. Couldn't put it down.

[Marlon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Damn

The story is galloping along now. Both the incredible overarching plot as well as the smaller details that we've been wondering about. Mr. Arand gets better with every volume, and I proudly say I lost a night of sleep to this exellent novel.