Edge of your seat read

Would you listen to The Left Hand of God again? Why?

Yes, it felt like a medieval adventure with a little bit of a twist. I didn't think I would be in to this, but it has opened a brand new genre for me.

What did you like best about this story?

I liked the medieval setting best. But the Sanctuary really made the book.

Have you listened to any of Sean Barrett’s other performances? How does this one compare?

No, But I have already purchased the next two in the series after reading this one and would definitely consider taking the chance on one of his other series.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The scene where the main character has to not move while being hit was quite moving. Taking a beating is one thing, but being made not to react in any way was quite moving.

Any additional comments?

Just that after reading this book I have purchased the next two which should say it all. The genre may put some people off, but don't let it. The author brings you in and makes you believe you are 500 years in the past.

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A solid start to a new Trilogy

Very different to what I am used to with fantasy, but a very solid start to a trilogy. Apart from the fictional world, the fantasy elements were very subtle in this book.

Story – 4/5

The Left Hand of God is very intriguing. You are constantly told about the way things are, and always wanting to find out why, but only being given it in small chunks. It is very dark and bleak, with lighter elements developing as the escapees’ experience of the “outside” world progresses. The character development in this story is excellent as a consequence.

I quite enjoyed the brutality of these young boys, as they are only taught to be ruthless and kill. Therefore their social etiquette and problem solving logic are a bit warped at times.

Performance – 3.5/5

Sean Barrett was a very good narrator for this audiobook; his tone of voice fitted the bleak and dark nature of the story nicely. His voice acting was good enough, but nothing special, there were a couple moments of slight confusion during conversations between the 3 escapees near the start, but I picked up on the subtle differences as I got used to his style.

The bell tower chiming between chapters was a nice touch and fitted with the religious undertone.

Overall – 4/5


Apologies for the star ratings not matching the written review, I am forced to round halves on Audible.

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Outstanding

The first audiobook I have been completely hooked on. Excellent story and narration.

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Gripping from the first

I really cannot figure out what book other commentators are talking about when they write about this book. Here we have a fantastically condensed read. I know what I'm talking about - and have not read other or professional reviews of this work. I picked up a copy of this in a bookstore in Norway and read the first paragraph. That was all it took. I then put it on my to-buy list with Audible. I am completely and even extremely satisfied: what a book! The language is both vivid and traditional, new and archaic. Literature always enhances our experience of the real world, as Terry Eagleton would say. Perhaps I'm attracted to this to hear the undertone of classical religious theology trounced (my own background), or to hear politics reduced to its essential character (I love it), or war maneuvers managed in their amoral strategic details (true), or young romance shown in its own forgiving light (we remember). It's a given in this universe that there is evil in the world - and good here. That's a great relief. And Hoffman treats all sides with generous linguistic talent, the occasional modern moment and provides us with a steady narrator who is both wise, kind and honest. The characters are fantastic. I try not to see them in Hobbit-sized films. I can forgive the excesses when I hear this author's words - which are languid, rich and never short on thoughtfulness.

Now, when was the last time you were trapped in a reality you could not escape? It must have been your real life, right? Hoffman accomplishes this level of engagement with his work with great aplomb and few fireworks - over and over throughout this book.

I also can't say enough good things about the reader, Sean Barrett. I forget that he is reading - what? sometimes 4-6 persons in a scene? He's a super talent, and wonderful to listen to. Just relish it.

Just to know, my review is for the first book, and I understand there are three. Although I don't like being 'sucked into series' that I cannot escape, I have to confess I'm completely on the page with this one: Book 1 could not be more engaging, and I look forward to reading the rest.

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Absolutely fantastic

The narration was superb. The plot thickens and I cannot wait for the next book in the series. This will be an immediate purchase.

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good introduction

very interesting and action packed can't wait to read the sequels. good charactors well read

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1 of the best

Hard to put down and elaborately but beautifully constructed piece of literature.
It knows how to put you in the thick of the action but also stir emotions inside you for the charactersuring the quieter chapters.

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Where’s book 2 👍

Really enjoyed the book and found the p between the characters really good. Now on hunt for book 2.
Reader was also great.

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Engrossing but not exactly light hearted.

I genuinely enjoyed this book. It is not for the faint hearted, the Sanctuary of the Redeemers is not somewhere you'd want to take the kids for a day out. This book is consistently grim, it doesn't let up on the oppression of its subjects for a moment. But it has real appeal, a dark fascination that draws you in to the finely detailed setting inexorably. Well written, well narrated, well worth your time!

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9 people found this helpful

Great Trilogy

I don't do spoilers or plot summaries so all I will tell you is that I really enjoyed all 3 books in this trilogy the subject is familiar but turned upside down and inside out :)

Sean Barrett is an excellent narrator and in these books (as he always does) he puts the flesh onto the bones of the characters.

If you like fantasy with an edge as opposed to unicorns and castles then this is certainly well worth a read...

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1 person found this helpful