Phantasmagoria

"Every thirty years. But where does he go? But why? Why?"

Writer: Mark Gatiss
Format: Audio
Released: 4th October 1999
Series: Main Range 02

Featuring: Fifth Doctor, Turlough

Synopsis

The TARDIS takes the Doctor and Turlough to the London of 1702 where a mysterious highwayman roams the streets, a local occultist has made contact with the dead and gentleman of fashion are disappearing, only to find themselves in a chamber whose walls weep blood...

The time travellers become enmeshed in the hideous plan of Sir Nikolas Valentine, a gambler at the mysterious Diabola Club who always seems to have a winning hand...

Verdict

Superb. Absolutely outstanding. This audio story was brilliant and a pleasure to listen to! A marvellous plot, TARDIS banter and a sinister villain. I really liked the plot, never a dull moment and the setting of the 1700s in London was perfect. Filled with mystery and suspense, Phantasmagoria was always interesting. The plot twist of Hannah and Major Billy Lovemore being the same person, tracking down the villainous Sir Nikolas Valentine was just brilliant. I thought Valentine was a fantastic enemy and really suited the Fifth Doctor, who played by Peter Davison seemed like he'd never stopped being the Doctor. I really liked the guest appearance of David Walliams as Ned and Quincy, he played both roles with humour and seriousness. The cliffhangers were all very good! Turlough was good also, I wasn't a huge fan during his TV run (not that he was bad), but in this he was a very enjoyable companion and did so typically of one. He got himself into the trouble. The ultimate climax was suspense filled and tied up the loose ends effortlessly! Outstanding!

Rating: 10/10