Four Planets Book One: Torvall's Conviction

By: Mr. John G. Hansen

Narrated by: Daniel Murphey

Length: 9 hrs and 1 min

Publisher's summary

When a subordinate dies in darkness under his command, an agent of the peggon war fleet begins to question the world around him. Can he trust the religious bureaucracy to hear the voice of the Pinnacle? Will he lead his own unit into redemption, or condemn them to the eternal torment of soul death?

A musically rich, fully dramatized cinematic novel from John G Hansen that delivers a world of beauty, a perilous fate, and a philosophical maze.

©2023 John G Hansen (P)2023 John G Hansen

Outstanding

I don't often read this genre and it's certainly not my go to. However, I am always willing to check out a recommended book no matter the genre and in doing so I have found some gems that I adore, such as " The Red Rising" series and the "Ender's Game" series. I am now going to have to include "Torvall's Conviction" as well!

Along with being highly engaging, John Hansen's book is truly artistically innovative in the audiobook world; combining orchestration with storytelling in order to have a "movie" like experience in an audio format.

Rare eloquence, power, and characterization

Torvall's Conviction has the gripping action and compelling world-building one would expect from this genre. But it goes further. The characterization is deep and wide to a startling degree, as characters grapple with internal and external doubts, perplexities, loyalties and betrayal. The story is imaginative and complex. Perhaps most impressive to me, as a pretty avid reader, was the eloquence and power of the prose. The "visuals" given through the writing, the sense of wonder, excitement, beauty, and pathos were so powerful. Some sections I listened to multiple times just due to the powerful writing. In the same way, the entire work, and especially some key scenes, were movingly enhanced by the musical score. Again, there were sections I listened to repeatedly because they were so compelling. Highly recommend.

One of a kind

This audiobook is truly unique. Entertaining throughout without being tiring. Alien yet relatable. Truly fantastic.

Gripping, engaging, imaginative!

In a world where science fiction and fantasy tales become increasingly homogenized and uninspired, Torvall’s Conviction shines “like redemption” above the crop. Hansen’s creativity and imagination grips the listener from the outset, and leaves you waiting eagerly for the next installment.

Masterful combination of storyline & orchestration

What struck me in this audio book (cinematic novel) was the creativity of the characters, plot and how it was brilliantly orchestrated. The descriptive writing was some of the best I have ever read. Simple, not overly done, but able to paint a picture in my mind that drew me into each setting as if I were there witnessing it. There were battle scenes that literally got my heart rate up considerably throughout.

This is not your ordinary, run of the mill, fantasy novel. It's not a copycat, it is very unique. The way in which Torval came into being blew my mind. The imagination of the author and ability to compose not only the story, but to effectively compose, perform, and add the background music is pretty amazing for one individual.

I am 66 years old and thoroughly enjoyed it. I would think that it would appeal to ages 14 and up.

The protagonist, Torvall, is an interesting combination of a fierce warrior with a soft heart and willing to admit failures - not just command and not be questioned. I liked that. There is camaradery and yet, a time and place for following orders regardless of friendships.

There is a spiritual aspect, not overt, but enough to nudge the faith that is in the reader. I think one would have to already have his or her convictions/beliefs before reading for this to be in any way obvious. It is an interesting sub-part that just considers the life beyond which most do consider at some point in their lives.

I highly recommend this novel. You will not regret experiencing this for yourselves. Hopefully, and I am pretty sure, more books will come from this author soon. Can't wait!