We're sorry to hear about the voice acting volume, if it is the actual voice acting performances, then that is mapped to the voice volume, for the character expression sounds, they are mapped to the Sound effect volume. We haven't been able to replicate the issue, so we apologize for the issue there.
We're really glad you liked Blackheath overall and Tom's change in appearance, Blackheath is quite crafty and...murdery.
This game is not a 'crackfic'- that is to say, it is not a fan fiction that is intentionally absurd, surprising or ridiculous - it is a sequel to Royal Duality and the events directly follow on from that game. If your perception is that it is a crackfic/game etc. that is an opinion that you are entitled to, but it is not the intention of the game.
You are similarly entitled to the opinion that you find getting to know the characters a 'bit boring', we think that is again, a storytelling preference that you're entitled to have. Similarly, your perception of 'the best game you've ever played' is entirely yours, we are glad the game grows on you.