Why must the urn on display at the British Museum never be opened?

John Ramm’s latest tale for his 1920s investigator Virgil Kaylock – of which this is a belated review! – cleverly misdirects the audience in the first episode, suggesting that we’re getting into the territory of cursed objects, and He Who Opens It Will Be Nibbled To Death By Okapis. In fact, it’s something rather more insidious, and Virgil and Dorothy find themselves in territory that would later be investigated by such diverse characters as Mrs Emma Peel and the Uncanny X-Men.

Ramm uses historical truth about his central concepts to good effect, altering where necessary to suit the story, and there’s a moment where you’ll almost imagine a young Ewan McGregor making exhortations to the audience. The relationship between Virgil and Dorothy continues to occasionally infuriate, and it’ll be interesting to see how long things can continue.

Hugh Ross – a familiar voice to SFB readers from his many Big Finish appearances – Josh Dylan and Sian Webber join the cast for this story, with the usual spooky score from Neil Brand. If you’ve not heard Virgil’s adventures before, this works as a decent primer, although I’d still recommend going back to the start.

Verdict: If you’re looking for a different Halloween treat, then why not get acquainted with Mister Kaylock? 8/10

Paul Simpson

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