TV sit-com style sci-fi theology

Enoch the Traveler is a short story based in a biblically themed universe that respects a scientific basis for laws of nature as opposed to vague, ill-defined mystical magical powers. In this universe (and there are multiple iterations - the multiverse), Heaven and its celestial inhabitants exist as a corporate, bureaucratic, mundane "adjustment bureau: like entity keeping things moving along.

In this tale, Enoch, the biblical character, is a vagabond wanderer who accidentally becomes involved with a blissfully ignorant human, Violette. The story is a series of short, dangerous and exciting adventures as Violette is exposed and comes to appreciate her new reality in a Dorothy in Oz style rendition. The sci-fi elements are muted with a few odd gadgets as well as restrained attempts to explain theological aspects in scientific terms.

Narration is in the style of a performance, rather than a more straightforward reading. There are multiple narrators, one for each unique character along with background sound effects which can either be enhancing or distracting depending on preferences. This is a short, quick listen, best absorbed in a single sitting.

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Don't know what all of the hype is about

What would have made Enoch the Traveler: Tempestas Viator better?

Less focus on Southern American and Christian religious stereotypes, and more focus on characters, especially Enoch, who is about as intelligent and interesting as a rock. The titular character is merely a glorified cabbie, moving the story from universe to universe. The idea of parallel universes is heavily used throughout, but without any real science. Instead we get some explanation by religious magic nonsense.

What was most disappointing about Lady Soliloque’s story?

As a Southerner myself, I found the depiction of a modern American Southerner offensive and ill-informed. The lack of science in a supposed science fiction is also appalling. It is so clear that this is a poor fanfic copy of Doctor Who and other episodic adventure stories.

How did the narrator detract from the book?

Narrator was great, but his heart couldn't have been into this at all.

What character would you cut from Enoch the Traveler: Tempestas Viator?

I can't think of a character to keep.

Any additional comments?

There were some surprisingly interesting ideas in some of the parallel universe travels, but the horrible over-the-top characterizations and story arc crushed them.

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