Cass: Meanwhile, Elsewhere

"And who do we find on this ship?"

Writer: Tim Foley

Format: Audio

Released: January 2023

Series: The Eighth Doctor: The Time War 5.01

Featuring: Eighth Doctor, Alex, Cass

Synopsis

The Doctor and Alex arrive on a tropical beach where something's amiss.

Meanwhile, elsewhere... a desperate plot runs for his life.

Meanwhile, elsewhere... it's Cass Fermazzi's first day on an errand-class starship.

Meanwhile, elsewhere... it's the beginning of the end of everything.

Verdict

Meanwhile, Elsewhere was a strong start to the Cass fifth Time War series of Eighth Doctor Adventures! The Big Finish expansion of the Eighth Doctor's era never ceases to amaze me and I'm so glad that his ventures into the Time War are continued here. I remember being very intrigued and excited when this boxset was announced a couple of years ago because how could the Eighth Doctor possibly have adventures with Cass? It was clear in The Night of the Doctor that they never met prior to those events, but alas this is the Time War and time can be reshaped, warped or distorted all at once. Anything is possible and I think now getting a series with Cass is exciting and it's going to make that regeneration minisode all the more emotional knowing that there's a history between them both. I thought she made a strong impression here and it's great that this serves as her origin episode. It's important to have that, especially if she's to become an important character moving forward in the Time War. The continuation on from Restoration of the Daleks in the range is really intriguing in having the Doctor travelling with his great-grandson Alex, but he does kind of feel unimportant which is almost ridiculous to say. It's a fun quirk that Sonny McGann plays the role, but I can't say I was wholly enthused by the performance here. The moment where it seemed he might turn bad was good fun though and perhaps a tease of more to come later? Heironyma was a fascinating character and made all the more quirky by the fact she was played by Jaye Griffiths who will become Eighth Doctor companion Audacity not too long after this release. She has a distinctive voice so it was sometimes difficult to differentiate from the historical companion, but when her plan was revealed that definitely made things easier! The idea of utilising people's elsewhere and meanwhiles was really intriguing and the perfect kind of thing to play with in the playground that is the Time War. Time itself can be taken in so many directions and I really like that. Heironyma's insight and knowledge was quite scary at times as well which added to her mystique as she knew that Alex ought to be dead. She was also questioning the Doctor about his decision to take Cass on as a new companion because he felt something was missing. Her blissful line was almost cruel in harkening back to The Starship of Theseus and what we know from there about Bliss as a companion. It was excellent though! Talk about audacious. The use of two different versions of Alex from different points in his timeline was a little questionable but in the Time War I feel like there's more ground to get away with stuff like that. Alex and Cass taking it upon themselves to solve the problem that was Heironyma and sabotaging her scoop to the Garaban files was confident to say the least! The Doctor was quite surprised with their audacity and I wonder if that makes him respect them more despite the risk they took? I like his continued stance of not getting involved in the Time War, but with each boxset and episode that seems to become more and more difficult. And that's a really good way to build him up to the point we see on television for his regeneration. Overall, a very intriguing and strong way to start the series! 

Rating: 8/10

Empire of Shadows

"I am praying that Torchwood can help me."

Writer: James Goss

Format: Audio

Released: August 2021

Series: Torchwood Monthly 53

Featuring: Zachary 

Synopsis

In the far future of the Earth Empire, Torchwood is forgotten. So it's a surprise when Zachary Cross Flane of the Torchwood Archive finds himself summoned to the opening of the late Empress's Library. 

Her son believes that the conspiracy which deposed his mother is still active and that the key to it is hidden somewhere in the library. But does Zachary want to find it?

Verdict

Empire of Shadows was another excellent episode to continue my way through the Torchwood monthly range from Big Finish! This series really does go from strength to strength and this is such a fascinating setting. I remember when this was announced over four years ago now and being hugely excited by it. There's so much to potential explore in the far future and visiting the world of the Earth Empire is just fascinating. The mention of the Torchwood Archive in The Impossible Planet/The Satan Pit has been expanded upon massively considering it was probably just a throwaway line to keep the Torchwood story arc going through Series 2. And yet we've had an entire story named after it and now we expand upon its significance here rather brilliantly. Given everything we've seen Torchwood go through, it's almost staggering to think that the organisation is still of significance this far into the future. But it's nothing if not resilient! I think it's really nice to know that Torchwood survives in some form and that also opens up the potential for so much more room in between to explore different iterations. I think Zachary Cross Flane made a big impact on screen in the aforementioned two-parter so he's a fine candidate to lead the episode. He really does have a big presence. His relationship and interactions with Chloe were intriguing and the dilemma she was facing as a non-organic were actually quite troubling. She was standing up for her rights which was great as a Synth in much similar fashion to minority races and genders are forced to stand up for themselves in society today. It was a strong parallel and the way she was addressed by the Emperor and even the Courtier was pretty disparaging. She was even told she didn't need to speak any longer once the introductions were completed. She was seen as lesser than, but then I guess I really shouldn't be too surprised with how the Ood were treated alongside Zachary. It almost becomes hypocritical with them being a slave race and it was almost a little insider joke with how many times the Ood were then referenced in the episode. Maybe they'll make an appearance in a future Torchwood story set during this era? I would love for that to be the case. I thought the mystery in the episode was a strong one and I really liked the Emperor being a little shifty. I must admit I didn't see the truth coming about the revelation surrounding his true identity, but it was a superb twist! The opening of the Empress's Library was good and everything was focused on the mysterious events that led to her death. The Emperor believed they were still unknown, but the plan that he was actually concocting was actually much more deliberate and contrived than that. I thought it was actually impressive that Zachary had worked it out himself just in time because of the slips of the Emperor. Suspecting the Emperor despite Torchwood's mission to protect him took guts, but the evidence was clear. The would-be Emperor was not the true son of the Empress he had replaced, but rather he murdered her and claimed to be her son to take the power. That's some impersonation! And he nearly got away with it. His desire to see what truth was held within the Torchwood Archive was good and it was a solid plan for sure, but I liked that Zachary was one step ahead of the game. Chloe resetting her memory despite her strong desire not to was a bit of a surprise, and I wonder if she really has or if she was acting? I hope the latter. Overall though, a brilliant story! A fantastic listen.

Rating: 9/10

The Face of Fear

"I refuse to be a monster!"

Writer: Rochana Patel

Format: Short Story

Released: October 2025

Printed in: The Adventures After 02

Featuring: Second Doctor, Jamie, Zoe

Synopsis

Discover what happened after...

A remarkable collection of new Doctor Who short stories that give a glimpse into the moments just after the Doctor saves the world, and the credits roll.

The Doctor has had many adventures, visited many planets and made a whole host of friends (and some enemies). 

But if you thought it was all over after the TARDIS doors closed, and the time ship dematerialised, onto the next adventure, you'd be very much mistaken.

From Earth's past, present and future, to the furthest reaches of the universe, here are eight tales that give us a glimpse into the worlds the Doctor left behind. Sometimes triumph, sometimes tragedy (and always chaos) these are stories you'll never forget.

Verdict

The Face of Fear was an excellent story to continue my way through The Adventures After collection of sequels! This was dubbed as a sequel to The Web of Fear, but that is basically a red herring in a rather tremendous way as it gets revealed to actually be a sequel to The Faceless Ones! I thought that was handled really well and I was certainly duped for the first half of proceedings. Starting seemingly where events with the Yeti and the London Underground left off in having the Doctor, Jamie and Victoria wandering on the tracks to find the TARDIS was good fun and seemed logical for an immediate sequel. It also tied in nicely with the UNIT dating controversy as that serial could feasibly take place at just about any point between the 1960s and 80s with all of the contradictions that have come since then! So with it seemingly being 1966 which admittedly did feel a little off, the Doctor and Jamie needing some shelter as they searched for their time and space machine they called home, who else would they call upon but Polly! That was hugely exciting as her departure always felt a little rushed given that she and Ben barely featured in the last half of their exit story. It also did feel weird that Ben wasn't mentioned alongside Polly, but I guess that was caveated by his surprise entrance later in the story at Polly's house with the Doctor and Jamie believing he would have been away on leave. That was certainly feasible. But I'm not sure the Ben Jackson we all knew would have just stopped and watched from upstairs as his old chums were chased by a pretty terrifying creature! I was loving the journey across the era of the Second Doctor and I thought with Victoria seemingly being the current companion that it was going to end there, but alas we really did stretch across the entire era as Zoe was revealed to be the woman behind everything! Sort of. That was really fun and really not something I saw coming which is always fun. That familiar attire being described before she was named was brilliant in planting the quick seed that sparked a smile as I read in bed in the early hours of the morning. It was glorious stuff. Everything turning out to be a Chameleon simulation was a really interesting concept and it was fun for the last Second Doctor TARDIS trio to have landed on their home world. It's a shame we didn't get more of a chance to explore that, but just being there at all and the description of how devastated and broken it was made for some quite spectacular imagery. Even the moons were battered. That was quite a bleak world to say the least. I like the idea of the Doctor and Jamie giving the Chameleons some personalities to present themselves on and old companions like Ben, Polly and Victoria were the prime candidates. They always did feel a tad off which was explained by them being Chameleons, and even the Doctor within the simulation needed reminding of the likes of The Wheel in Space and The Mind Robber to get reacquainted with Zoe, and when he was it was obvious there was nobody better to stay behind and keep an eye on things. The little ambiguity at the end regarding whether the Doctor, Jamie and Zoe were actually their own true article was fascinating and a fun teaser. Might they be Chameleons from this point forward? The TARDIS would seem to indicate no, but it's a cheeky little Easter egg. Overall, a tremendous read to continue the collection! 

Rating: 9/10

Merlin's Trap

"I really hate wizards."

Writer: Hannah Kennedy

Format: Audio

Released: October 2025

Series: Halloween 1.04

Featuring: Twelfth Doctor

Synopsis

When Lainey leads an expedition into the ancient Merlin's Cave System, the group is warned by Merlin's ghostly voice to explore no further. As Lainey and her team push deeper into the mysterious cave, they encounter things far beyond their comprehension, including Merlin himself.

Verdict

Merlin's Trap was a great episode to conclude the first Halloween series! I hope this isn't the last of the series as it's a really good concept and I love a boxset that jumps around numerous eras. This time we came to the time of the Twelfth Doctor which is magnificent as his era is probably one of the least expanded on at Big Finish at the moment. I do hope that one day we will get Peter Capaldi on board for his own series but other than a couple of Twelfth Doctor Chronicles and the odd Short Trip, this is an incarnation still waiting to burst into audio life. Whilst we (hopefully) await Capaldi to get on board, I thought Jon Culshaw did a stellar job in his impression of the Twelfth Doctor. It was uncanny and whilst it may have been aided by the episode essentially being a Doctor-lite one and a lot of his dialogue coming in a distorted fashion through the hologram, it felt incredibly authentic. That's always a big bonus, especially when concluding a boxset where we've already had the actual actors for the lead characters. That could have been a daunting prospect, but instead we got a really strong guest cast. I find the idea of Merlin a very intriguing one and whilst it's a shame we didn't get much at all of a reference to Battlefield other than the Doctor jokingly mentioning that he and Merlin were one and the same, but alas a long time has passed for the Doctor since that serial. I was a big fan of the setting and the whole concept of a cave system is fascinating to me. I recently read a few articles on people who got stuck in caves whilst exploring and that's such a horrifying prospect to me. The line about breathing in really resonated with me as some of the stories I've read of people getting stuck and either suffocating or just starving to death is brutal. What a way to go. I'm more than happy with just an open cave! Lainey was a strong personality and she kind of had to be to lead her expedition. She was blunt and to the point, even when it came to her girlfriend Flo. The pizza topping of ham and pineapple is just dreadful too by the way, but unfortunately they would never get to have it. I thought Lainey threatening Alice when she wanted out because of the warnings was a powerful moment as if she didn't come further in her role as the expedition's archaeologist, she would not be getting paid. I thought Ezra complimented the women well and added a slight sense of comic relief in what was otherwise a rather serious situation! The mysterious Stone Age drawings of the Eye were intriguing and it's a shame we didn't have visuals with this format! The Doctor having set prerecorded warnings was fun as it was always going to be enjoyable when he found out they had been repeatedly ignored. He wasn't exactly surprised though when they got so far that the TARDIS was having warning signals triggered. I thought the idea of the bronze statue teleporting was good and initially seemed like a disintegrator! Flo being the only one of the crew to survive was a pretty bleak conclusion and certainly tied in with the horror theme of the release. She was just hearing echoes of her girlfriend and friends, whilst what the Doctor had dubbed as Eyela was doing what it naturally did in defending itself with time. That's something that could have been elaborated on a little further, but it was an eery and somewhat beautiful concept. Overall, a very different kind of horror and one that worked really well with the contained cave setting. A lot of emotion! A great listen to finish the series.

Rating: 8/10

Bramble King

"A monster that eats traitors and liars."

Writer: Noga Flaishon

Format: Audio

Released: October 2025

Series: Halloween 1.03

Featuring: Eighth Doctor, Audacity

Synopsis

The Doctor and Audacity encounter a strange vision which leads them to Walpurgis-9, a cargo ship drifting powerless through space. In their attempt to assist the ship's crew, they become entangled in their secrets and encounter the malevolent entity known as 'The Bramble King'. 

Verdict

Bramble King was a decent episode to continue my way through the Halloween series! This was certainly a different kind of tale and I think going down the folklore route is a solid option for a Halloween themed release. It ties in nicely with the essence of the day and its past. I think Audacity is a pretty solid choice of companion for that kind of adventure too, but I must say I'm finding her wholly average in the role which is a shame to say. I'm quite disappointed that we didn't get Charley alongside her and the Eighth Doctor here as she's one of the very best on audio where companions are concerned. But she wasn't interested in folklore so she got to stay behind which was actually a bit of a surprise. I don't remember her being afford that kind of freedom in the Monthly Adventures range and certainly not in the chronology of where Audacity is placed, but it's all part of the fun on expanding from what has come before. I thought the Walpurgis-9 cargo ship was a strong setting and it certainly felt eery. It didn't really fit the folklore kind of vibe though. A fairytale on a cargo ship? It didn't quite add up for me. I liked the interactions the Doctor and Audacity had with the ship's crew and the dilemma that Otto faced in whether to allow them on board because of their low levels of oxygen was great. I was expecting that to play a much bigger role in the episode by the end of the audio, but alas it seemed to be quietly forgotten. I thought Otto taking the role as the leader was good but he was also not the most likeable of characters. I think that was the intention though and I couldn't exactly blame him for putting certain interests first. He obviously knew a whole lot more than he was letting on for much of the episode with everything that came out about his son. The mythology behind the titular Bramble King was fascinating and I think there's definitely a solid creepy factor in the use of brambles moving towards you. I wouldn't fancy being chased by them! Reinka was a really lovely character and I liked how she befriended Audacity quite early on. The companion was clever in trying to work her way around the mind block that prevented her from talking about the truth about the Bramble King and the links with Otto. I thought it was all slightly too much or maybe overkill that the boy was all of the cargo, Otto's son, and the Bramble King! That's an awful lot of baggage for one boy. Gretchen was a goo character to compliment Otto and she was also showcasing the emotion behind the truth of the fairytale and the ship. Otto was finally convinced by the Doctor about what was needed to be done and he went one step further in sacrificing himself to ensure that all was paid off. I thought that was certainly emotional and brought out a different side in the somewhat ruffian demeanour of Otto, but children will do that to you. I certainly know that from experience! The sacrifice was made and the boy was saved and the Bramble King was no longer a mythological threat. It was controlled and that rounded things out pretty nicely to be honest. Overall, another solid episode to continue the set and I'm liking the variety and feel despite the overlapping theme. A good continuation! 

Rating: 7/10

Party Favours

"We are so happy to finally feast."

Writer: Georgia Cook

Format: Audio

Released: October 2025

Series: Halloween 1.01

Featuring: Kate, Osgood

Synopsis 

All Bev wants to do is host her yearly Halloween party and heal her fractured relationship with her girlfriend, Annika. Unfortunately, her reclusive upstairs neighbours have been invited to the festivities, and all they want to do is feast.

Verdict

Party Favours was an excellent audio to continue my way through the first Halloween boxset! I was very excited by the prospect of a Kate and Osgood story as it feels like a long time now since I delved in the modern UNIT audio series so hearing that familiar opening theme felt like a real treat. I love the pairing and just the dynamic of UNIT at this time is great. Osgood is a sublime character who can manage to fit in just about anywhere and that was the situation here with the Halloweeen party. It was an easy way in to investigate the spikes that they were tracking and the prospect of Kate showing up in fancy dress was very amusing. She obviously was never going to and made it a condition of her attending with Osgood, but just for a second that image was very fun. I had no idea that the Weeping Angels would be returning in this episode so that was a real treat! I thought this very much had vibes of The Angels Take Manhattan with the way the entire building was being used as a nest, and it also just feels right that UNIT would get a Weeping Angel story. The contained setting of the flat was really impressive in adding to the atmosphere which very much suited the Halloween theme. It was certainly chilling and that's exactly what you want. I think the story being set at a Halloween party also helps in capturing the series' ambition, but it went further which was a delight. I thought UNIT being a tad behind on things when it came to how far along the Weeping Angel nesting was worked well and added some urgency to the situation to say the least. The Angels were ready to feast, and they had started long ago. I thought the horror that came from the revelations surrounding Alice and Tim was extraordinary as we discovered they had been dead all along. They were already part of the building's foundations and that was pretty terrifying. The realisation for Bev and Annika that they had been talking to their friends who were actually dead was quite something! The pair of Bev and Annika were superb and they were really likeable together. They were a couple that felt distant and there was always something between them which was a little sad as it was clear they really did care for one another. You don't get that angry about something at someone if you don't! Bev claiming that they didn't actually love each other because of their arguing that had been ensuing for months had an air of the Seventh Doctor about it in that I didn't really believe her, but Annika did which was everything I needed. She was pretty distraught so it was a nice moment towards the end where they could kiss and make up. Literally. They belonged together and needed to make more time for each other instead of being consumed by their very different employment roles. That love and connection actually proving too powerful for the Weeping Angels to handle was very good as the resolution and I like the ambiguity of the building going on to potentially become anything, anywhere. The Angels weren't entirely defeated, but they were certainly setback. I did think the jumping around in time could have been done with slightly more finesse, but overall this was a magnificent audio to continue the series! A fantastic returning monster, a great use of the Halloween setting, and a very enjoyable hour! A great listen.

Rating: 9/10

Sea Smoke

"We've got to have faith."

Writer: Jonathan Simms

Format: Audio

Released: October 2025

Series: Halloween 1.01

Featuring: First Doctor, Dodo

Synopsis

The First Doctor and Dodo arrive on the Scottish isle of Ulfsay during the height of the 19th-century boom in kelp burning. They quickly realise something is wrong as the smoke from the latest batch of 'kelp' begins to cause horrific transformations on the island.

Verdict

Sea Smoke was a very good start to the bonus Halloween boxset! I am writing this blog on release day ahead of Halloween and I'm surprised to find that the CD version of the series has already sold out. I'm lucky enough to have a copy but that clearly means it's a popular release. I thought there would be more of a Halloween feel for the opening episode but it was certainly eery so I can understand the vibe that is being targeted with these stories. I'm a big fan of a jumble of eras in one boxset because it provides variety and this is a welcomed addition to the ever expanding adventures of the First Doctor and Dodo. I'm very much at home with Stephen Noonan and Lauren Cornelius in their recast roles and whilst I still think the former's impression leaves something to be desired, I think of it as its own sort of era now which works in my head. I think it's good to bring out some character in Dodo which perhaps didn't happen on screen and this was another good example. She had compassion and was also impacted by the events at the heart of the story. I liked the 1790s setting and the burning of kelp sounds so mundane but in the Whoniverse it can become something much more interesting. With the Doctor seemingly having knowledge of what was actually being burned, I was half expecting something a bit more interesting than the previously unknown Selmantian. They were a fine concept in themselves but I would prefer that when the Doctor has a niggling memory of something that is something or someone we have met before. It just doesn't carry any kind of the same weight when it's an occurrence from an unseen or unheard adventure, especially in expanded media! I like the theme of faith in the episode with the historical setting despite being an atheist, but it has shaped so much of our history it's almost impossible to do a story set in the past without touching upon it! Reverend Drummond was a strong character and the way the Selmantian had linked with him because of how strong his faith was and his desire for salvation was really well done. It was a good use of taking advantage of something and placing itself as what the reverend desired. At one point, I thought this was going to turn into a prequel to Fury From the Deep with the use of seaweed and when we got a scream I thought I'd nailed it. Alas, it wasn't to be but it was a fun thought in my mind for quite a few minutes. I thought Flora was a really nice character and I loved her sense of adventure. She didn't think the idea of Dodo travelling and being a trader was strange despite her gender and the time as she too wished to travel. I loved that she was bold and asked if she could travel with Dodo and the Doctor once everything was said and done, and the companion was more than keen to have someone else alongside her. It was expected that she wouldn't be sticking around given the state of things after Drummond perished. His death breaking the link with the Selmantian and sending that packing was good and certainly a feeling of finality at the conclusion which is good in my book! Overall, a good historical that could have leaned more into the spooky Halloween theme, but a strong start to the series. 

Rating: 8/10

Madam, I'm

"Torchwood is better with Adam as our leader."

Writer: James Goss

Format: Audio

Released: July 2021

Series: Torchwood Monthly 52

Featuring: Norton, Lizbeth

Synopsis

Torchwood, Soho, the 1950s. Disgraced agent Norton Folgate has a new boyfriend, the very lovely Adam. Brilliant scientist Lizbeth Hayhoe meets a charming stranger on the underground, the very lovely Adam. Very soon, Torchwood has a new leader – the very lovely Adam.

With people losing their lives and their souls, Lizbeth and Norton must work out what's happening to Torchwood. And why is Torchwood preparing to go to war?

Verdict

Madam, I'm was an outstanding episode to continue my way through the monthly Torchwood range! This was a stellar hour of audio drama and served as a brilliant return for Adam. The way this story basically sets up Adam from the second televised series was excellent and whilst this basically was that episode done in the 1950s with Torchwood Soho, it didn't feel repetitive in the slightest. It was just fantastic and part of the charm was getting a returning villain, even if it is (presumably) set before his on screen appearance. I have that assumption given the line at the end with the remains being sent to Torchwood Cardiff. It makes sense! I think the use of Adam is tremendous and I love how quickly he is able to exert control and establish himself in numerous positions. The way he inserted himself into both the personal and working lives of Norton and Lizbeth was audacious but incredibly impressive. Surely you'd go by a different name though? That was the one thing that seemed a little off but it was confident of him to go that route! I thought the emotional pull he had on Lizbeth in inserting himself as her nephew who was thought dead was downright cruel and that's part of the charm. It's almost Master like and that's a huge compliment. It was just mean and you could hear the mental torment she was undergoing. The line that she continued to come to the opera despite it making her cry because he liked it was packing a lot of weight. The same went for Norton because Adam was being incredibly open about their relationship and both of their sexualities. Adam seemed to be bisexual which as an alien wasn't exactly a surprise as he was not against women joining in with them if they were caught, but this was a rare time we see Norton being vulnerable. I liked that because he's usually so brash and confident. It just shows how terrible society was for anyone not confirming to the traditional and outdated views on gender and sexuality. Norton should have been able to embrace who he was and Adam was keen on showcasing that. A suggestion of a simple showcase of them holding hands at the dinner table nearly had Norton whimpering! Adam then inserting himself as the new Head of Torchwood was very good, especially with that being a position desired by Norton himself! And yet here was the new man in charge and he was very keen on making Torchwood productive. Literally. They were now building weapons as Adam was readying the organisation for a war against the approaching Kernaz! That was fun stuff and just the idea of Torchwood becoming a weapons factory was tremendous. If anyone could do it! I thought the way Lizbeth and Norton were giving themselves psychic triggers with the magazine orders was really clever and it was lovely that they were helping each other to help themselves. They confided in each other which I liked and really made them a strong partnership. The confusion of nobody at Torchwood knowing the date was excellent as well as that is something so basic, yet everyone had a completely different idea. I thought the Kernaz coming for Adam and him alone was good and kind of expected, and from their arrival being timed with Norton and Lizbeth leading the revolution, he was set aside pretty swiftly. The Kernaz were not interested in anything else on Earth. They destroyed Adam and their work was done! Overall, a magnificent audio adventure! A superb return and a sublime visit to Soho. 

Rating: 10/10

Nemesis Express: Passion

"Fear is an illusion."

Writer: Robert Valentine

Format: Audio

Released: October 2022

Series: Master! 2.03

Featuring: The Master, Vienna

Synopsis

Finally reaching the head of the ship, Vienna and Passion find themselves exactly where the Master wants them. The Time Lord has more than revenge on his mind, however, and if they can't stop him, nothing in the universe will.

Verdict

Passion was a great finale to the Nemesis Express second series of Master! This rounded out the series very nicely and it really was a three-part arc that concluded with finality. It was a very enjoyable hour and certainly the best of the series so far as the Master's plan came into fruition. It was audacious to say the least and it must be troubling for him to have to continue to go to such extent to survive. Another body where he needs restoration and without regeneration. He's certainly got experience from his decaying incarnation! With all roads seemingly leaning towards Passion as the Master's intended host, the twist that he actually wanted to take over Vienna was great! It wasn't wholly unexpected but her reaction was priceless. I'm really loving how she is accepting that she is reformed and essentially wants atonement now for her past actions as an assassin. That is a powerful story beat and I'm delighted that there's at least one more series of this spinoff range to come. There's plenty more to explore and I love that Vienna has got the better of the Master twice now. Will she be so lucky a third time? I enjoyed the pairing with Passion once again but it was clear in this episode that Vienna was the main event. She was who the Master desired. I thought the revelation regarding Bruce whose form the Master took in The Movie being that he still existed within the body and was fighting from within in a silent scream was incredibly horrifying. It seems this incarnation of the Master has lasted for a pretty long time so the extent of that internal torture is almost incomprehensible! Vienna being told that just before the Master was planning to make the transfer and take her over really set her up nicely! Imagine that for your preparation. She was somewhat confident though because Passion was in play and was doing very well with interference. The genuine shock and surprise in the Master's voice was really good as just when he thought he had the upper hand and his plan was out to succeed, it was all taken away from him again. I'm a little surprised that the Master was defeated in his own spinoff series once again but I'm all here for it. It will only make him angrier and hungrier to succeed and that excites me, especially with his seeming destination being the Dark Times! Throwing this Master of all incarnations into that period of time is such an exciting concept and I beg the next series takes us there. I thought the continuity stretching back to the first series was great as well as the Master revealed to Vienna that the Kairos was actually built by Drake Interplanetary. Coincidence? Everything tying together across the series is a nice touch and really adds to the story being told. The return of Kryle from Nemesis Express was good and the Master consigning him to his fate almost as quickly as he returned was excellent. The Master at his brutal best when things didn't quite go his way once again. I thought the story was impressive in putting a shine on Vienna when they really didn't have to, but the Master still feels like he's far from finished despite his fate and destination. Passion played her role brilliantly and this rounded out the series very nicely. Onto the next one! 

Rating: 8/10

Nemesis Express: Capture the Chronovore!

"Tomorrow we hunt."

Writer: Lizbeth Myles

Format: Audio

Released: October 2022

Series: Master! 2.02

Featuring: The Master, Vienna

Synopsis

Vienna and Passion pursue the Master, but to find out what he's up to they must find a way through the ship's classier compartments.

With their weapons confiscated and champagne on ice, they're invited to join an exclusive shooting party, hunting the Vortex's great game – Chronovores! – and the Master is most definitely dressed for the occasion.

Verdict

Capture the Chronovore! was a fun story to continue my way through the Nemesis Express second series of Master! This was much improved on the series opener and felt like it had some strong direction which is always great. I really enjoyed how Passion now seems to be fully in a partnership with Vienna which is good because she made a big impression right away in the first episode so I'm glad she's sticking around. She compliments Vienna well and seems a little more rash as a thief with Vienna seemingly maturing with her experience. The Master being back in physical form is always a pleasure and this incarnation in particular is really growing on me the more and more I listen to him. Eric Roberts brings such a quality to the role and he really is different to any other version which is certainly beneficial. I'm a big fan and his ruthlessness is incredible to hear. He's not afraid to murder and did so on numerous occasions here, mostly because was irked at the actions of those failing to do as he commanded. Some punishment! The continuation of the Kairos setting was good and whilst I appreciated the continuity, this felt entirely different which is a big positive. I thought the Master being involved in a game was great and the one at hand here sounded pretty spectacular. I do wish we could have heard more of it in action, but the concept of capturing a Chronovore was very exciting. Their existence within the Time Vortex as their natural habitat and environment is marvellous and it really is difficult to comprehend. That was part of what was happening here with a live Chronovore being experimented upon and I was almost stunned that the Master was against that! Of course, he didn't have the most sound of motives as he was actually trying to harness the weaponry that was utilising the Chronovores, but it was still nice to get a glimpse of a good conscience. Maybe his past experience and interactions in The Time Monster led him to have a change of heart? It might just be possible. The way he was luring Vienna and Passion into his lair with the most obvious of traps was great and I enjoyed that the pair knew that this was what was happening anyway. They didn't have much choice other than to move forward with it anyway but at least they were somewhat prepared! I thought Princess Natalia was a really strong character and I admired her for standing up to the Master. The way he had positioned himself as head huntsman for the game was impressive and exactly where you'd expect him to be. It's almost a shame that he wasn't in disguise! But the callousness in which he murdered the princess was almost delicious. The audacity! She made a big impression which made it all the more impactful. Miroy was another solid character who didn't last long enough but that is beginning to become a trademark of this spinoff range where The Movie incarnation of the Master is concerned! I thought the Master inviting Vienna and Passion to make themselves known during his speech was good and confident, but it was a nice turn of events for them to set his plans back at the end. Things are far from over with the finale to come, but this sets things up nicely with dare I say a potentially level playing field? I can't wait to hear how things conclude. Overall, a very strong episode to continue the series. 

Rating: 8/10

Nemesis Express

"You know this isn't a dream."

Writer: Robert Whitelock

Format: Audio

Released: October 2022

Series: Master! 2.01

Featuring: The Master, Vienna

Synopsis

Vienna Salvatori boards the Kairos in search of a stolen gem, and young thief Passion is hiding out and feels like the ship itself is watching her. 

Both women are about to be thrown together – and it's no accident. For the ship's Vortex drive has brought the Master back from oblivion, and he has plans for them both.

Verdict

Nemesis Express was a decent start to the second series of Master! baring the umbrella title of the same name. I do feel like this was treading on old ground a little following on from where Vengeance left off in leaving this version of the Master from The Movie stuck in the Vortex in giving a rationale for his return to the physical plain, but I can't hate on it too much. Part of that is down to the brilliance that is Eric Roberts and Chase Masterson because they're two phenomenal actors who really do own the stage. Whilst they were separated for the most part here, I look forward to continued interactions between the pair as the series moves forward. Vienna herself is such a strong character and whilst she has tempered a little in recent releases from the assassin we knew so well from The Shadow Heart and The Memory Box, it's all about character evolution and she still touches upon her roots very nicely. A lot of that is in her fees as was referenced here! That was pretty fun and it's good that she was having her services up for hire again. I thought the basis behind this episode was good and starting with Vienna trying to talk her way onto the Kairos was good stuff. She would always get there, it just was yet to be decided if it was by official means. I thought the significance of the Heart of Tiemon was pretty good as the basis for a story and whilst there could have been a little more elaboration and backstory on it, it was clearly important to the people aboard the Kairos that much was certainly clear. I do like a good artefact story and Vienna ties in perfectly there when it comes to a job so it made sense for her presence to be felt. The guest cast were strong and Passion was a standout and honestly part of that is simply down to her name. There's something about it that just sounds so incredibly powerful so it was good to hear her conversing with the Master. It's incredible how much control he is able to exert without even being physically present. It says a lot about his qualities, but then given that this is the start of another series it was quite predictable how things were going to play out and his reward for services paid to him was going to be the honour of involuntarily giving up one's life support to sustain the Master and bring him back to the physical plain. He certainly knows how to survive, doesn't he? It's an impressive trait but I can't hate the repetition too much because it really is uncanny. It's a wonderful trait of almost every Master but this one feels all the more impressive because we only got the one on screen appearance. so the expansion of this incarnation's life is just magical. Scarden sounded like he was going to prove himself and I guess he did with his fate, but he never quite felt like he was as crucial as he was putting himself out to be. He was always to be used. Vienna combining with Passion to warn her about the Master was good and I like that it appears she will be sticking around. Don't tell Jexie! It's good for Vienna to be in a partnership though and the Master wanting her alive is good, let the hunt begin as the series rolls on! That's an exciting premise for sure. Overall, a solid start to the series even if it did feel like stepping on old ground slightly where the spinoff is regarded. 

Rating: 7/10

The Verge of Death

"The TARDIS is attacking us."

Writer: Carole Ann Ford (with Rob Craine & Beth Axford)

Format: Short Story

Released: October 2025

Printed in: The Adventures After 01

Featuring: First Doctor, Susan, Ian, Barbara 

Synopsis

Discover what happened after...

A remarkable collection of new Doctor Who short stories that give a glimpse into the moments just after the Doctor saves the world, and the credits roll.

The Doctor has had many adventures, visited many planets and made a whole host of friends (and some enemies). 

But if you thought it was all over after the TARDIS doors closed, and the time ship dematerialised, onto the next adventure, you'd be very much mistaken.

From Earth's past, present and future, to the furthest reaches of the universe, here are eight tales that give us a glimpse into the worlds the Doctor left behind. Sometimes triumph, sometimes tragedy (and always chaos) these are stories you'll never forget.

Verdict

The Verge of Death was a great start to the latest short story collection of The Adventures After! I’m a sucker for continuity so getting eight sequels to on screen adventures is a big positive in my eyes, and starting with a story written by Carole Ann Ford herself is a delight! I still maintain that Susan is a massively underutilised character as the Doctor’s granddaughter and first companion. She’s literally the one he left Gallifrey with and that should say so much about their relationship. I thought it was touched upon really nicely here and that helped in splitting up the original TARDIS quartet in literally separate rooms within the interior. When it comes to First Doctor serials that I would expect or hope for a sequel to, I wouldn’t have ever considered The Edge of Destruction to be honest. I wouldn’t have even thought it possible to be honest with it being a two-part serial entirely contained to within the TARDIS. And yet here we are immediately after the events of Marco Polo as the proceeding serial and everything is perfectly logical. Sure, it may have been a natural TARDIS fault that caused everything to wrong last time out, but after such a long time away on their travels with Marco Polo, there is certainly the possibility that not everything was as solved as it seemed. That’s an exciting thought and particularly leaning in on Susan attacking Ian with the scissors was really good stuff. I thought the DWM interview with Carole Ann Ford, Rob Craine and Beth Axford who all brought this story to life to kick off the collection was great and very insightful with me learning for the first time that the scissors scene was improvisation! That’s such a memorable moment from the serial so that is quite the revelation. It being used as the explanation here for there being a telepathic creature infiltrating the TARDIS from when the doors were thrown open mid-flight was terrific. It all made sense because how would a TARDIS fault drive Susan to think of an attack like that? I thought the Doctor and Susan getting to talk openly together about leaving Gallifrey was good, although it didn’t feel of the era. I like the mystery and ambiguity surrounding the Doctor and Susan’s home world at this time so that felt a tad out of place. It was no bad thing though and I really enjoyed looking back on Susan’s time and her graduation. Her recognising the Capitol as home was nice too. I wasn’t expecting so many flashback scenes considering this takes place only after the fourth serial, but Susan having some inner conflict and needing that reassurance from those closest to her was lovely. It maybe went on a tad too long, but it was nice for Susan to experience that as she battled the mental challenge with the creature. Tapping into her telepathic abilities prior to the events of The Sensorites is also a neat touch. I thought the Doctor and Susan using the Time Lord ability of contact together was lovely and it was really nice for them to combine in a really caring and compassionate way to defeat the creature with their telepathic abilities. It was a powerful familial moment that we perhaps didn't see enough of on screen. It was really nice for the Doctor to praise Susan for her idea and they pulled it off together. It was great as well for Ian and Barbara to be feeling very different sensations as the TARDIS was making their room very cold and they embraced one another foreshadowing their relationship. The threat of such a safe haven like the TARDIS being taken over was fantastic and I like the focus on Susan. You'd expect that in a story written by the actor who played her, but the depth of exploring her feelings for Ping Cho felt more personal. Overall, a really good start to the collection! I do love a sequel so this will be right up my alley.

Rating: 8/10

The Five People You Kill in Middlesbrough

"Bombs go boom."

Writer: Yvonne Hartman

Format: Audio

Released: June 2021

Series: Torchwood Monthly 51

Featuring: Yvonne

Synopsis

When a spaceship crashes on Middlesbrough it's very sad, of course. But we at Torchwood have long had a plan to contain such a disaster. 

Only, nothing is happening. And the disaster is spreading. So, I set out to find out what's going on. What has happened to The Icarus Protocol? Who launched a Moonstrike Missile? And why will no-one admit that there's a cloud of deadly particles sweeping across the United Kingdom?

My name is Yvonne Hartman. Don't come between me and my country.

Verdict

The Five People You Kill in Middlesbrough was another great episode to continue my way through the Torchwood monthly range! I've officially reached the halfway mark of the series now after the recent announcement of it coming to an end at the centurion release, and this is where things get controversial as whilst this is numbered as 51 in the Torchwood schedule, we all know that it was unfortunately the fiftieth to be released after the cancellation of Absent Friends. I still can't wrap my head around the decision from Big Finish to cancel this release and whilst I understand the reasoning behind it with the accusations against John Barrowman, surely they would then pull everything else he stars in? It's just such a shame we won't get to hear the Tenth Doctor in a Torchwood story. I have hope that one day it will get released as a special and I think that is likely, but for now I have to skip ahead and go in the release order. Yvonne Hartman is a fine character to carry a Torchwood episode, but I'm not entirely sure why a fictional character is dubbed as the writer for the story! I think it's pretty cool that Tim Foley paired with Yvonne-actress Tracy Ann-Oberman to write this episode but why not just list both names? Regardless, it was a great listen and very political! I think you can get away with a lot more mainstream politics and just everyday life when utilising Yvonne as part of Torchwood One because that's just part of having a London setting. Despite the title, the English capital city is very much where this episode takes place. Sure, there is a big concern in Middlesbrough with the crashing of the ship but it's all about the Government response and that is very much a London thing. I thought the comparisons and parallels to the Covid response from the UK Government was very tongue in cheek and for the most part I liked it. Maybe if I listened at the time of release when we were still very much in the Covid pandemic I'd have had an even better listening experience? Who knows! Yvonne's interactions with Alfie were intense at times as she was very much in the position of authority even if she was told otherwise. Yvonne is a very strong character and that came across massively here. She was concerned about the situation in Middlesbrough with the photon leakage and couldn't grasp why there was such an untimely response. I thought the idea behind the phone app was a little too on the nose as it wasn't really conceivable that photon energy could be tracked by a phone, but it was a cheeky jibe at the track and trace app that seemed to be released way too late. And was pretty useless in all honesty. The waste of taxpayer money being compared here was fun with the budgets and I do wonder just how close this was to what goes on behind closed doors in politics. Who's to know? Simister's interactions with Yvonne were a delight as she couldn't answer the very basic of questions with genuine fact or explanation that was rational. I also liked how Lancelyn was basically made a mockery of by Yvonne as she dealt with him and his podcast in no time. Beacham's fate in going into the cold at the story's conclusion as a powerful moment and really said a lot about the position he was put in. Politics, eh? The cloud was then stopped and Yvonne had saved Middlesbrough and the world. It was nice to think that this would become another forgotten moment like the extraordinary events of The Stolen Earth/Journey's End and Miracle Day, but there's a lot of them in Torchwood! Overall, a really good listen. More Yvonne please! 

Rating: 8/10

In the Bleak Midwinter: The Empty Man

"Give me who I am."

Writer: Tim Foley

Format: Audio

Released: December 2023

Series: Eighth Doctor Adventures 12.02

Featuring: Eighth Doctor, Charley, Audacity

Synopsis

Good evening, faithful listener. It's time for Eldridge Brinkwood, that splendid scribe of scary stories, to tell another of his tales this Christmas Eve.

Except this is a horror like no other. The Doctor and his friends have stirred something in the dark, something ruthless and relentless. And the Empty Man must feast...

Verdict

The Empty Man was a decent episode to continue my way through the In the Bleak Midwinter series of Eighth Doctor Adventures. I thought this followed up the Twenty-Four Doors in December opener in strong fashion, but it almost followed it a little too much. I think in isolation this is an absolutely fine episode, but I think part of why my rating isn't higher (despite still being good!) is because it felt very repetitive and similar to yesterday's offering. It followed it in style very much and that was a tad off-putting at times to be honest which was a shame. I'm liking the slow burn of Audacity getting to know the Doctor and Charley well, and she's starting to see through him a little bit now which is fascinating. I like the idea of her reading him and the fact she's heard the Doctor refer to Charley once again now as the girl he had saved was brilliant. I'm sure it will but I'm looking forward to hear how that plays out moving forward. We know Audacity will leave a long time before Charley does so I'm keen to explore this aspect and the gap in the chronology. It's exciting stuff for sure. I thought Eldrige Brinkwood was a pretty good character and he was certainly mysterious. The creepy Christmas theme continued for this series as I expected and with him being a supposed horror author, the feel of his readings were definitely eery. I just don't think we leant enough into the concept of the titular Empty Man which was a shame. I liked how Charley was understandably disturbed by seeing a creature baring her face from the Vortex and the way things seemed to return to that early Eighth Doctor and Charley era with the reference to Ramsay was lovely. It really did feel nostalgic and it's lovely to hear. Audacity being shocked by how much Charley was taking things in her stride and her lack of surprise at finding out there was a Second World War showed how much of a seasoned traveller she was now which was good, and presents a fascinating companion dynamic. Brinkwood continuously being questioned by the Doctor on his horror works was interesting and the way he had to keep denying that he was the author of whatever piece the Doctor presented was fun and almost harsh. By the end he was sick of not being recognised and that was part of the problem for the Doctor. He should have known about Eldridge and that led him to questioning whether he was even real. The sacrifice of Eldridge was admirable and the impact this had on the timeline was pretty strong! I liked the concept behind everybody he was due to meet being pushed out of sync by the creature. It just felt like there could have been slightly more impact. There was a lack of urgency and action for me that could have really given this a better feel. The creature suffering from draining the Doctor was amusing in that it was then haunting itself, making it quite the ongoing cycle! I thought the way some semblance of Eldridge was saved in the Marci painting was a nice touch to finish on, but again the feeling at the end of the Doctor not being wholly sure on things was familiar. It must be a theme and I hope there is a payoff, but for now I felt this was holding the episode back slightly. Overall, a good episode to continue the series! 

Rating: 7/10

In the Bleak Midwinter: Winter of the Demon

"The darkness shall be turned back."

Writer: Roy Gill

Format: Audio

Released: December 2023

Series: Eighth Doctor Adventures 12.03

Featuring: Eighth Doctor, Charley, Audacity

Synopsis

The TARDIS brings the travellers to Victorian Edinburgh. Industrialist Donald Shaw plans to transform the city with electric light, but people are dying, found horribly burned...

What ancient power has Shaw summoned? Can the Doctor prevent the Winter of the Demon?

Verdict

Winter of the Demon was a very good episode to conclude the In the Bleak Midwinter series of Eighth Doctor Adventures! It feels incredibly harsh to say this given that this has been a good and consistently solid series, but I'm actually rather glad to have reached the conclusion. That doesn't really reflect in my ratings but I think I am a little put off by the repetition of the winter theme. I understand this was a December release a couple of years ago and at the time of writing it is not yet Halloween, but I am just glad to be covering something different tomorrow! The story is a good one though and I was glad that we were out of London at least. Edinburgh is a stunning city and is one of my favourite places I've ever visited as a tourist (and there are many!), so to hear some of the famous landmarks described here with the Victorian twist was tremendous. I'm not sure I'd liken it to Athens but I can understand where they're coming from, especially at this point in history. There's something that just works about the Victorian era at night and that was the case once again here. I thought Audacity being shocked by the shooting was hilarious and showcased where and when she was from very well, and she was ready to fight! I still think there's work to do on the companion dynamic in having her with Charley as she's still very new, whereas here I really liked that the Edwardian adventuress was exploring her options. Her relationship with Archie was rather lovely and I liked how instantly the pair were smitten with each other. It's nice that Charley was keen to act on it as well at the end and had a few kisses with him. It was pretty amusing that she thought he deserved it though! He was a very good and likeable character though and so much so that the Doctor was willing to offer him a stint in the TARDIS, but he had other commitments which was admirable. I thought the use of the midwinter theme was good and probably the best of the series so far, with the coming of the demon being linked to the midsolstcace. That's always something that has fascinated me so tying that in with ancient language that even the TARDIS could not translate was exciting. I love the idea of language from a time before the Time Lords as that feels impossibly ancient and is a stretch of space and time I'd love to explore more. I thought the potential in the Demon here was strong but could have benefitted from some more time and focus. I understand that we had to establish things first and the link with the supply of electricity to the city of Edinburgh through Sir Donald was very good, but I don't think the arrival had as much impact as it could have. In saying that, the voice was a little off-putting for me so maybe the idea of it was better than the actual article? The use of the iron and the canon in killing off the Demon was certainly sudden! I also liked the horror of the revelation regarding the seven locks and the ritual that had occurred. Using people as a power source is a scary thought, especially in Victorian times! Everything feels worse in Victorian times, and I like how that played out here. Audacity taking a liking to Christmas crackers was a nice way to conclude what was a rather emotional episode and series. Maybe something a bit more upbeat next time, especially for a festive release! Overall though, a great episode and a consistent series for sure.

Rating: 8/10

In the Bleak Midwinter: Twenty-Four Doors in December

"Santa and his elf are here!"

Writer: John Dorney

Format: Audio

Released: December 2023

Series: Eighth Doctor Adventures 12.01

Featuring: Eighth Doctor, Charley, Audacity 

Synopsis

When the TARDIS lands in London on the first of December the Doctor decides to treat his companions to a proper Christmas holiday... even down to dragging out the Baker Street Advent Calendar. 

But elsewhere in the city a department store Santa is starting to have a very unnerving month. He's on a collision course with the time travellers. Is it going to be a Happy Christmas?

Verdict

Twenty-Four Doors in December was a strong start to the In the Bleak Midwinter series of Eighth Doctor Adventures! This follows up nicely where the previous series concluded in having Audacity brought on board the TARDIS as a new companion, but surprisingly alongside Charley Pollard who is back for more! I think the trio is an interesting dynamic and whilst I'm still unsure about the decision to have two historical companions, I'm more than happy to let things play out. This wasn't a typical kind of adventure with the Doctor and company staying put in the same location for a month or so over Christmas, but it's nice to know that Audacity and Charley will be very well acquainted with each other now. Maybe that was the intention with the format? I think the title is an intriguing one and clearly part of the Christmas theme, although I'm not sure the announcement of each door and date with the location was strictly necessary. Twenty-four of them was an awful lot! Touching on the Christmas setting was really well done and I definitely got a festive vibe from things in terms of atmosphere. The focus being on Al Norton was certainly unique and captured a very certain vibe of realism. He was a recovering alcoholic who had lost his partner and his daughter to the drink which must be tough, and hearing him tackle that and try to show he was a changed man was powerful. I lost all respect though when he succumbed quickly to a quick half. He wasn't the most likeable of characters and I think that was the point. I think the midlands accent contributed to that too as he felt very working class. I liked how he was a Santa but that accent really doesn't lend itself well to the role and character of Father Christmas. The fact he was fired for letting a girl easily rip off his beard and then telling others that Santa wasn't even real was quite a spectacular failure. Isobel as his elf was far from pleased at losing a fortnight's wages! She was a fun character though and you felt sorry for her that she was almost reliant on this man. The struggle Al had in hearing the eery song of Silent Night was excellent though and that really did inject a creep factor. It was rather ominous and whilst in keeping with the festive vibe, it brought a huge chill which I appreciated. I liked the Eighth Doctor being on Baker Street and whilst we're used to that with later companions, it's good continuity and it's nice to know he has somewhere to call home. Charley being in a Christmas story was really good and I loved The Chimes of Midnight reference as she had to stop herself about why Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without pudding. That was subtly brilliant. I thought the apparent hallucinations Al was seeing turning out to be projections of the future as warnings was an intriguing concept, but I didn't like that the Doctor was essentially guessing that time was attempting to heal itself. I think a higher rating was right there if there was a better explanation in regards to the resolution. It was nice to conclude with Al being reunited with his daughter though and I wonder if it was her all along that was responsible for the singing he heard? Overall, a fun start to the series and a very cool festive vibe. I'm excited for more! A great listen.

Rating: 8/10

Do No Harm

"I killed them all."

Writer: Sarah Grochala

Format: Audio

Released: July 2020

Series: The Robots 2.03

Featuring: Liv, Tula

Synopsis

After an incident in a laboratory leas to a tragedy, someone needs to be found accountable. And who better to be prosecuted than a robot? But when complicated ethical questions arise, the outcome of the trial becomes bigger than a single case. What if somebody else is working behind the scenes?

Verdict

Do No Harm was an excellent episode to conclude the second volume of The Robots! I do love a trial and whilst they're nothing new in the world of the Whoniverse (just look at The Trial of a Time Lord!), this painted Liv in a new light and that was lovely to hear. I think it's fair to say that this was not the finale I was expecting as after starting the series with Liv and Tula in Robots of War and then seeing the returns of Toos and Poul in the second episode, I figured all of the elements would combine for the finale! But alas, that was not to be and I guess that will come in a future series. That's no big problem and it leaves something to look forward to which is always fun. I thought the use of a trial for SV66 was brilliant and I loved that it was the first time a Robot was being accused of causing harm and death to humans. The scale of it was extraordinary when put into the simple and blunt words of the courtroom as one explosion causing over seven-hundred deaths is almost incomprehensible. The scale of loss there is rather horrifying! I think it's quite amusing that Liv took a crash course in order to become the legal representation of SV66 and I really appreciated her motivation for doing so. She knew what SV66 meant to Tula but also to the wider population of Kaldor and the feeling of discontent that was spreading. She could see this was the start of a bigger picture. SV66 struggling with memory loss wasn't entirely helpful and certainly pointed towards outside interference, but the way Liv articulated that to the court and how the Robot could not plead either way was magnificent. I thought she took on the role of legal representative quite spectacularly and her courage and confidence was a delight to listen to. She knew when she was looking like the winner and the way she stopped her witness or the accused mid-sentence with no further questions to emphasise their struggle and to assert her position was superb. I thought Tula became something of a background character in the episode which was slightly surprising, but given the nature of it and Liv's role that's going to happen sometimes. I'm sure she will take the lead role in another episode in the future! Liv being congratulated on her efforts for the trial and her defence of SV66 was really nice and even the prosecution was complimentary! That said a lot and whilst it could very much just be beginner's luck, she was receiving a lot of plaudits. So that made the fact the jury returned a unanimous verdict against her and four SV66 guilty of all charges was a bit of a shock! It really showed the prejudice humans have against Robots on Kaldor as it's clear that the jury were not just considering the evidence laid before them. Liv seeming to think the Sons of Kaldor had infiltrated the jury was intriguing too and the way the series is set up moving forward with the atmosphere of dissension amongst the population is fantastic. Tensions are boiling and that can only be a good thing for story quality and interest! Tula being in shock that SV66 was decommissioned put her on a bad footing but she was still appreciative of Liv's efforts. Overall, an excellent finale! 

Rating: 9/10

Toos and Poul

"Kaldor has become lazy."

Writer: Andrew Smith

Format: Audio

Released: July 2020

Series: The Robots 2.02

Featuring: Toos, Poul

Synopsis

When a murder takes place in an isolated outpost, there's only one man who can look into the come. Investigator Poul, newly reunited with his Sandminer colleague Toos. But can he over-come his fears and prejudices and solve the case?

Verdict

Toos and Poul was another great episode to continue my way through the second series of The Robots! This very much took a sideways step from being a Liv Chenka spinoff series and that's absolutely fine because Kaldor is rife with potential and this showed us a different side of society on the planet. This took us away from Kaldor City and venturing to an outpost was really good in exploring normal life for Kaldorans. In doing that, we also had the returns of two memorable characters from The Robots of Death which is excellent in the form of Lish Toos and Andor Poul. It's testament to Big Finish that characters from over forty years ago can be brought back to life with their original actors and it also shows what an impression they made, as well as the status of the serial in which they appeared. It's so easy to forget that these Robots only featured once on screen but they made such a huge impression it's no wonder they now have an entire spinoff series set on the planet. I liked how we heard a bit of the rough and tumble of the Dums with them very much not being shiny and not representative of the Robots replacing everyday tasks and slowly becoming a major part of society. I liked how Poul continued with his robophobia and whilst he did appreciate V11 saving him from his fall and patching him up, he was very much still against Robots in general. He didn't believe in them taking over everyday aspects of life which is really intriguing stuff. I thought after the cliffhanger finish at the end of the first series regarding the name of Lish Toos that her return was going to be a little more impactful and maybe a surprise, but this was still a fun way to reintroduce her and reunited her with Poul very nicely. Their dynamic was strong and I'm looking forward to hearing that continue as I think we are far from hearing the last of these two characters in this series. All signs lead towards them encountering Liv and Tula in the finale which is exciting stuff. I enjoyed the way they played the old heads in this episode and they were clearly experienced. The events of the Sandminer still remain strong in their thoughts although their positions now are vastly different. Poul's history as an investigator was utilised well and I like that it was these skills that Toos was after and wanted to see how he was doing because she could use him. And here he was right in the action with the murder mystery and whilst the role of Jaybel in that was predictable, I did like the continued threat and mentions of the Sons of Kaldor. I feel like they're going to have an increasingly large role and presence as this spinoff range continues and it's a very exciting element. I thought the sacrifice of V11 was impressive and certainly gave Poul a new perspective on the Robots, but I get the feeling with the light and that role in their malfunctioning that he was perhaps thinking another way already. I thought Tayna was a good character and her insistence at not carrying weapons was great. She was very much on the side of the republic but in a more subtle and arguably reasonable way. Overall, a really strong switch in direction for the series and a good way to explore more of Kaldor. I'm looking forward to all of the elements meeting in the finale! A great listen.

Rating: 8/10

Robots of War

"A sleeping army is a dead army."

Writer: Roland Moore

Format: Audio

Released: July 2020

Series: The Robots 2.01

Featuring: Liv, Tula

Synopsis

A visit to an old flame goes badly wrong for Liv and Tula and soon they find themselves locked down in a military training base, surrounded by traitors and robots designed and built for war. As they attempt to get everyone out alive, is there a chance they've missed something important?

Verdict

Robots of War was a great start to the second series of The Robots! I love the concept behind this series and the setting of Kaldor is just rife with potential. The possible adventures are endless and this was another intriguing look into the dynamic of life on the planet where humans and Robots (try) to live together. I think the idea of the Robots being used for war is a very human one and it's fun that this is happening at a time where Kaldor isn't even at war! That feels even more of a typically human thing to plan and see out. I think Liv continues to shine and she really is growing into one of my all time favourite characters from Big Finish and it's only right that she leads her own series. It's still fun to think that this entire spinoff range takes place during the events of Ravenous and it's nice that there is an end goal for Liv here as everything occurs over the course of a year or so by the time I reach the final boxset. I think Tula as her sister is another strong character to help her lead the series and the pair really are strong. Frenton was a good character and I liked that he was responsible for setting the fire that saw so much lost in terms of records. It's ironic that on a planet like this one with such reliance on robots that there was no digital backup on his test results. And it was a test he couldn't afford to fail. I thought it was fascinating later in the episode that it turned out he had no known parents. His interactions with Liv were good too and when he tried to assert his assumed dominance and project threats, they were dead in the water. I loved her response in how she nearly laughed him out of the room. Liv Chenka did not respond well to threats and I loved hearing that in action. She's such a strong character even when as a companion alongside the Doctor but she shines even more here on her own which is just wonderful. I think Tula has potential to get there too as she is another confident and bold persona. I thought Garlon was an intriguing character and the history he had with a robot having saved his life put him in an intriguing position when it came to living alongside them now. The description of how they saved him by literally acting as a body shield in space was admirable and certainly impressive and it was something he remembered in a powerful way. How could he not? Naturally, I feel like a lot of the episodes in this spinoff range will see the Robots malfunctioning in some way and this happened here. The potential for war is strong and definitely works as a key story element, so I was fascinated by the concept of the hierarchy protocol. It put Liv in a strong position given that she was a med tech which was great, but she could see that this wasn't the same for everyone else! I love the literal mind of a Robot and how that plays out. It's almost predictably unpredictable how they will act and that's a really good position for them. I also liked the continuity with The Sons of Kaldor and Rax being a member of the titular group. Kaldoran continuity is expanding and I'm all here for it. Even the simplicity of simulations and what can go wrong blending with what actually happens is not new but it just works here. It's logical. Tula's history with Rosh could potentially have been explored further, but there's still plenty of time to dip into her backstory. I liked how Garlon had to dig deep emotionally to set things right and that was strong stuff to listen to. Overall, a really good story to kick off the series! 

Rating: 8/10

Gooseberry

"There's probably no way back for you."

Writer: James Goss

Format: Audio

Released: April 2021

Series: Torchwood Monthly 49

Featuring: Owen, Andy

Synopsis

Andy has a girlfriend. She's called Caite, and she's utterly lovely. And then she meets Owen. 

Owen finds out that Caite has a secret. One that he's desperate to understand. But the more he discovers, the more dangerously close to Caite he becomes. 

What's going to happen when Andy finds out?

Verdict

Gooseberry was an excellent episode to continue my way through the Torchwood monthly range from Big Finish! As I nearly reach the halfway point in the range, this is the first blog entry I have written since Big Finish's announcement that their Torchwood range will be coming to a close. That's an incredible shame as the series has been nothing short of spectacular and I have loved and adored the extension and expansion of Torchwood on audio. It's been wonderful and at least being in the position that I am in constantly playing catch up that I still have so many to get through! But now there's an end point in reach which adds to the excitement and determination to conclude. Will we ever get Absent Friends? I bloody hope so. Anyway, onto the story at hand and it was another belter. There's something special about Cardiff at night when it comes to the setting and I'm not sure if it's just because I'm local to the area and that it's Welsh that it just resonates with me. The atmosphere was chilling and it reminded me of a recent experience where I was hanging around the city centre for two hours from 3.30-5.30am awaiting the first train home after a midnight bus home from London. The things we do for football, eh? The concept of Andy having a girlfriend is a fun one and it's nice to know that he's moved on from Gwen who he clearly fancied. He's a nice guy and deserves to be happy with a woman, even if she was supposedly out of his league! Poor old Andy. Even when he gets a girl he's still questioned and ridiculed. He really can't win. It was nice to hear throughout the episode that Owen really does care for him as a friend despite the appearance he may put on. I thought Caite was a fantastic character and whilst it was great to just have her as Andy's girlfriend, she was clearly so much more. Her nature as what Owen dubbed a vampire which wasn't actually quite that literal was terrific and she was feeding off Andy whilst being in a relationship with him. She loved him which came as a shock to Owen but it was really nice to know. I enjoyed how Owen and Caite got to know each other and exploring the fact that Owen was dead was done brilliantly. I mean it helped that Caite was also in a similar way but the way she could feed and actually pass that onto Owen temporarily made him feel and experience the simple things in life for the first time in a very long time. The smell of the rain, the taste of a kebab. He felt alive again and that was powerful stuff. Even as he described feeling the pain of his permanently broken finger which was disturbing! But it showed how much he desired life. I thought the way it became like a drug to him and Caite became more vulnerable was disturbing to listen to at times but it really highlighted just what kind of existence Owen had after dying. Their murder of the old woman was horrifying with Owen refusing to stop despite Caite's insistence and then they had to cover it up from Andy who was so sure there was something fishy about her death that required Torchwood just from the look on her face. And he was right of course. It was fun to hear him question Owen when he knew of his involvement but he got off lightly when Caite's true nature was also found out. I was less keen on her found and rare ability to time travel and actually never meet Andy in the first place meaning the old woman would survive, but the emotional toll of the episode was a big one. Andy was obviously hurt by what had happened and that put Owen in a difficult position despite him avoiding court and any kin of responsibility really. Overall, a brilliant audio! 

Rating: 9/10