Writer: Jody Houser

Artist: Roberta Ingranata

Titan Comics, out now

 

Team TARDIS track down the thief of the Gem of Niag, but it’s not who the clues initially suggested.

There’s no way to discuss this edition without referencing the reveal at the end of Issue 9, namely that the mystery female Gallifreyan isn’t Missy but the Corsair. Now there’s every possibility that you don’t recognise this name unless you’re well-versed in the Neil Gaiman-scripted Season Six story The Doctor’s Wife, where she’s referenced in the script.

Don’t feel too bad if the name meant nothing to you, as the Corsair doesn’t recognise the Doctor either. Once your disappointment at not getting Missy is assuaged, you can enjoy this feisty, swashbuckling and Machiavellian character. There’s history between the two Time Lords, and Jody Houser is having fun with the stinging jibes and banter. Have they had a previous relationship, in whatever combination of gender? We may find out. But the big ask here is that the Doctor is invited to join the Corsair in the execution of a big job. Will her sense of right allow her to participate in a caper? Tune in next time!

Verdict: The Corsair is a larger than life character cut from the same cloth as Captain Jack. She can handle herself well in any situation and makes for a great team mate. But what is this heist that she’s trying to get the Doctor to buy into? I can’t wait to find out. 8/10

Nick Joy