The Doctor and Peri arrive on a spaceship that seems dedicated to the Egyptian deities…

Nev Fountain’s tale for the Sixth Doctor and Peri Brown comes out at an appropriate time, with the Trial of a Time Lord box set hitting doormats over this weekend. It’s a story that seems set in the period in-between the end of Season 22 and the start of 23 – the Doctor and Peri are more at ease together (and his appalling taste in puns continues) – but Fountain separates the two for the majority of the running time.

There are certain elements that feel quite familiar about this (most of which would be spoilers to reveal but anyone with a good knowledge of classic Who will recognise as they appear), but as ever, it’s how they’re handled. Fountain pairs Peri with a rather unusual companion, whose appearance is a clue to what’s going on – but since the Doctor isn’t with her at this point, we’re ahead of him. The Doctor, meanwhile, encounters some overzealous managers of various origins – giving Nicola Bryant a chance to indulge in some fun vocal gymnastics.  The sound design has some intriguing choices at times and helps focus your attention on the narration.

Verdict: An enjoyable side trip for the stars of the latest Bluray set! 8/10

Paul Simpson