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The Eighth Doctor Adventures
Doctor Who: The Further Adventures of Lucie Miller
Four new adventures featuring the Eighth Doctor and Lucie Miller
"It’s a funny thing, livin’ a ‘life or death’ life. Fightin’ monsters. Seein’ alien planets and spaceships and stuff. Thinkin’ about it… it’s sort of addictive."
It’s been several months since Lucie Miller, Blackpool’s mouthiest, landed up travelling through time and space in the company of the Doctor, the last living person to believe that frock coats are acceptable apparel.
They’ve met Daleks on Red Rocket Rising, Cybermen on the planet Lonsis and alien monsters eating glam rockers at a service station just off the M62. But their greatest adventures are yet to come…
1. The Dalek Trap by Nicholas Briggs
The thing about black holes is, they’re big and they’re black and they’re deadly, and you’d have to be mad to go anywhere near them. Because anything that falls inside a black hole ends up crushed in the singularity.
Unfortunately, the Doctor just went mad, or so it seems, and flew his TARDIS beyond a black hole’s event horizon, causing him and his companion Lucie Miller to end up marooned on a planetoid just inside the event horizon. Along with a Dalek saucer… and something else. Because this is no ordinary black hole…
This is the Cradle of the Darkness.
2. The Revolution Game by Alice Cavender
It’s Lucie’s birthday, and her birthday treat awaits. But whatever she’s expecting, it’s not what she’s getting on the colony world of Castus Sigma in the year 3025: ringside seats for the interplanetary Retro Roller Derby – sponsored by Heliacorp, “turning sunlight into gold”!
It’s more than just a game, though. For the competitors, it’s a matter of life or death – a New Life with Heliacorp, or a living death on Castus Sigma.
Or, on this fateful day, a very actual death. Because there are strange creatures living out on the plain, beyond the colony. Creatures with every reason to want to sabotage the games. Creatures with a grudge.
3. The House on the Edge of Chaos by Eddie Robson
The TARDIS brings the Doctor and Lucie to a vast house on the planet known as Horton’s Orb. The only house on Horton’s Orb, in fact. Outside its outsized windows there’s nothing. No land. No sea. No sky. No life. Just an endless expanse of static.
Inside the house, there’s an upstairs and a downstairs – servants below, gentlefolk from the finest of the house’s families above. Alas, there are altogether too few eligible ladies on the upper floors these days. Meaning there’s a vacancy for Miss Lucie Miller, single and unattached…
Outside the house, the static howls on. Except now, the static wants to get in.
4. Island of the Fendahl by Alan Barnes
The Fendahl is the death of evolution, the horror that lies in wait at the far end of the food chain.
The Fendahl is death itself.
And the Fendahl is dead. The Doctor destroyed it many years ago, in another incarnation, when he encountered it in a place called Fetchborough.
But if the Fendahl is dead… how can it live again, on the remote island of Fandor?
"It’s a funny thing, livin’ a ‘life or death’ life. Fightin’ monsters. Seein’ alien planets and spaceships and stuff. Thinkin’ about it… it’s sort of addictive."
It’s been several months since Lucie Miller, Blackpool’s mouthiest, landed up travelling through time and space in the company of the Doctor, the last living person to believe that frock coats are acceptable apparel.
They’ve met Daleks on Red Rocket Rising, Cybermen on the planet Lonsis and alien monsters eating glam rockers at a service station just off the M62. But their greatest adventures are yet to come…
1. The Dalek Trap by Nicholas Briggs
The thing about black holes is, they’re big and they’re black and they’re deadly, and you’d have to be mad to go anywhere near them. Because anything that falls inside a black hole ends up crushed in the singularity.
Unfortunately, the Doctor just went mad, or so it seems, and flew his TARDIS beyond a black hole’s event horizon, causing him and his companion Lucie Miller to end up marooned on a planetoid just inside the event horizon. Along with a Dalek saucer… and something else. Because this is no ordinary black hole…
This is the Cradle of the Darkness.
2. The Revolution Game by Alice Cavender
It’s Lucie’s birthday, and her birthday treat awaits. But whatever she’s expecting, it’s not what she’s getting on the colony world of Castus Sigma in the year 3025: ringside seats for the interplanetary Retro Roller Derby – sponsored by Heliacorp, “turning sunlight into gold”!
It’s more than just a game, though. For the competitors, it’s a matter of life or death – a New Life with Heliacorp, or a living death on Castus Sigma.
Or, on this fateful day, a very actual death. Because there are strange creatures living out on the plain, beyond the colony. Creatures with every reason to want to sabotage the games. Creatures with a grudge.
3. The House on the Edge of Chaos by Eddie Robson
The TARDIS brings the Doctor and Lucie to a vast house on the planet known as Horton’s Orb. The only house on Horton’s Orb, in fact. Outside its outsized windows there’s nothing. No land. No sea. No sky. No life. Just an endless expanse of static.
Inside the house, there’s an upstairs and a downstairs – servants below, gentlefolk from the finest of the house’s families above. Alas, there are altogether too few eligible ladies on the upper floors these days. Meaning there’s a vacancy for Miss Lucie Miller, single and unattached…
Outside the house, the static howls on. Except now, the static wants to get in.
4. Island of the Fendahl by Alan Barnes
The Fendahl is the death of evolution, the horror that lies in wait at the far end of the food chain.
The Fendahl is death itself.
And the Fendahl is dead. The Doctor destroyed it many years ago, in another incarnation, when he encountered it in a place called Fetchborough.
But if the Fendahl is dead… how can it live again, on the remote island of Fandor?
Audiobook
First published July 10, 2019
2 people are currently reading
52 people want to read
About the author
Nicholas Briggs
376 books133 followersNicholas Briggs is a British actor and writer, predominantly associated with the BBC science fiction television series Doctor Who and its various spin-offs. Some of Briggs' earliest Doctor Who-related work was as host of The Myth Makers, a series of made-for-video documentaries produced in the 1980s and 1990s by Reeltime Pictures in which Briggs interviews many of the actors and writers involved in the series. When Reeltime expanded into producing original dramas, Briggs wrote some stories and acted in others, beginning with War Time, the first unofficial Doctor Who spin-off, and Myth Runner, a parody of Blade Runner showcasing bloopers from the Myth Makers series built around a loose storyline featuring Briggs as a down on his luck private detective in the near future.
He wrote and appeared in several made-for-video dramas by BBV, including the third of the Stranger stories, In Memory Alone opposite former Doctor Who stars Colin Baker and Nicola Bryant. He also wrote and appeared in a non-Stranger BBV production called The Airzone Solution (1993) and directed a documentary film, Stranger than Fiction (1994).
Briggs has directed many of the Big Finish Productions audio plays, and has provided Dalek, Cybermen, and other alien voices in several of those as well. He has also written and directed the Dalek Empire and Cyberman audio plays for Big Finish. In 2006, Briggs took over from Gary Russell as executive producer of the Big Finish Doctor Who audio range.
Briggs co-wrote a Doctor Who book called The Dalek Survival Guide.
Since Doctor Who returned to television in 2005, Briggs has provided the voices for several monsters, most notably the Daleks and the Cybermen. Briggs also voiced the Nestene Consciousness in the 2005 episode "Rose", and recorded a voice for the Jagrafess in the 2005 episode "The Long Game"; however, this was not used in the final episode because it was too similar to the voice of the Nestene Consciousness. He also provided the voices for the Judoon in both the 2007 and 2008 series. On 9 July 2009, Briggs made his first appearance in the Doctor Who spin-off Torchwood in the serial Children of Earth, playing Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary Rick Yates.
He wrote and appeared in several made-for-video dramas by BBV, including the third of the Stranger stories, In Memory Alone opposite former Doctor Who stars Colin Baker and Nicola Bryant. He also wrote and appeared in a non-Stranger BBV production called The Airzone Solution (1993) and directed a documentary film, Stranger than Fiction (1994).
Briggs has directed many of the Big Finish Productions audio plays, and has provided Dalek, Cybermen, and other alien voices in several of those as well. He has also written and directed the Dalek Empire and Cyberman audio plays for Big Finish. In 2006, Briggs took over from Gary Russell as executive producer of the Big Finish Doctor Who audio range.
Briggs co-wrote a Doctor Who book called The Dalek Survival Guide.
Since Doctor Who returned to television in 2005, Briggs has provided the voices for several monsters, most notably the Daleks and the Cybermen. Briggs also voiced the Nestene Consciousness in the 2005 episode "Rose", and recorded a voice for the Jagrafess in the 2005 episode "The Long Game"; however, this was not used in the final episode because it was too similar to the voice of the Nestene Consciousness. He also provided the voices for the Judoon in both the 2007 and 2008 series. On 9 July 2009, Briggs made his first appearance in the Doctor Who spin-off Torchwood in the serial Children of Earth, playing Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary Rick Yates.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
January 22, 2022
I finally got round to listening the whole set, and it was so good hearing these two again! Really enjoyed all three stories, but the last one was my favourite.
September 27, 2021
“THE DALEK TRAP”
Il fatto è che i buchi neri sono grandi, neri e mortali, e bisogna essere pazzi per avvicinarcisi. Perché tutto ciò che cade in un buco nero finisce schiacciato nella singolarità.
Sfortunatamente, il Dottore è impazzito, o almeno così sembra, e ha fatto volare il suo TARDIS oltre l'orizzonte degli eventi di un buco nero, facendo arenare lui e la sua compagna Lucie Miller su un planetoide proprio all'interno dell'orizzonte degli eventi. Insieme a un disco volante dei Dalek... e qualcos'altro. Perché questo non è un buco nero ordinario...
Questa è la Culla dell'Oscurità.
“Le Ulteriori Avventure di Lucie Miller” è un boxset uscito 8 anni dopo la fine del relativo range, aggiungendo storie che si vanno a collocare tra la prima e la seconda stagione. Trovo significativo che questa era sia stata così rilevante e consolidata da meritarsi un revival, come se la Big Finish ci andasse ad aggiungere delle avventure mancanti così come fa con la serie televisiva, mettendole di fatto sullo stesso piano.
Nonostante io non abbia ancora ascoltato le stagioni successive, in questo boxset è evidente quanto Paul McGann e Sheridan Smith fossero emozionati da questa reunion e come gli autori fossero pienamente avvezzi ai loro personaggi, rendendo sia il loro legame sia le storie stesse molto più solide rispetto a certi episodi della prima stagione.
Iniziando con The Dalek Trap, i nostri eroi hanno modo di imbattersi nuovamente nei soliti sterminatori seriali, ma questo non è il tipico episodio con i Dalek.
Il Dottore, per rispondere ad una chiamata di soccorso, ha finito per schiantarsi su un planetoide dentro un buco nero, e ora sembra come in trance, lasciando a Lucie il compito di giostrarsi in questo mondo alieno oscuro e popolato da mostri, in cui i ricordi stessi iniziano a sbiadire.
Per questo motivo, Paul McGann ha ben poche battute nel corso dell'episodio, e anche i Dalek sono un po' marginali, perché tutti hanno un nemico in comune molto peggiore: l'Oscurità.
Tutti i riflettori sono quindi su Lucie, e lei spicca brillantemente, interagendo con gli altri due superstiti, esplorando l'enigma di questo strano posto, tenendo testa ai Dalek, e tutto questo nonostante il rischio di dimenticare pure il proprio nome. Ha inoltre delle fantastiche battute, espresse come al solito nel suo spiccato e colorito accento di Blackpool.
Anche se non succede molto in termini d'azione, la trama è molto misteriosa. Per certi versi ricorda The Impossible Planet (dopotutto siamo proprio su un pianeta dentro un buco nero, con un'entità misteriosa che desidera uscirne), eppure ha anche un tono molto diverso. Tuttavia, nessuna risposta verrà data qui: anche se a prima vista poteva sembrare un boxset di storie separate, c'è un filo comune che le unisce, e per scoprire cosa è davvero successo dovremo aspettare il finale.
Davvero un ottimo inizio, non c'è che dire.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
“THE REVOLUTION GAME”
È il compleanno di Lucie e le spetta il suo regalo di compleanno. Ma qualunque cosa si aspetti, non è quello che otterrà nel mondo coloniale di Castus Sigma nell'anno 3025: posti in prima fila per il Retro Roller Derby interplanetario - sponsorizzato da Heliacorp, "trasformare la luce del sole in oro"!
È più di un gioco, però. Per i concorrenti, è una questione di vita o di morte - una Nuova Vita con Heliacorp, o una morte vivente su Castus Sigma.
O, in questo giorno fatale, una morte molto reale. Perché ci sono strane creature che vivono sulla pianura, al di là della colonia. Creature con tutte le ragioni per voler sabotare i giochi. Creature con un risentimento.
Questo secondo episodio è molto più tradizionale e presenta il tipico binomio società senza scrupoli vs. forme di vita indigene sfruttate per guadagno.
La trama è semplice e diretta, e non vi è molto da dire oltre a quanto già espresso nella sinossi. C'è un piccolo plot twist che ammetto di non aver visto, ma nulla di eclatante.
Nonostante siano presenti degli elementi interessanti, il risultato finale appare un po' superficiale. Ci viene presentato un sistema planetario di diversi mondi colonia e una specie indigena dalle proprietà uniche, ma purtroppo nessuna di queste cose ha il tempo necessario per essere esplorato a dovere. Stessa cosa per i personaggi, che rimangono piatti e stereotipati, divisi nella dicotomia “buoni” e “cattivi” senza alcuna sfumatura nel mezzo. Forse avrebbe giovato nell'essere un episodio in 4 parti da 30 minuti, piuttosto che uno da 60, per poter dare un maggiore approfondimento senza che tutte le scene sembrino affrettate. Anche così, però, la morale resta comunque banale e l'idea di poter dare avvio ad una rivoluzione per liberare un'intera specie oppressa senza colpo ferire è fin troppo ottimistica (anche se si adatta perfettamente all'umore solare e spensierato che il Dottore e Lucie hanno in questo periodo).
Inoltre trovo che l'idea del pericoloso campionato di rollerblade funziona male in audio, dato che è difficile capire cosa stia effettivamente succedendo nell'arena. Per questo motivo, e anche per la leggerezza della storia, forse sarebbe stata una trama più adatta ai fumetti.
Grazie al cielo l'interpretazione di Paul McGann e Sheridan Smith risolleva di parecchio questa storia, con i loro personaggi che sia presi singolarmente sia insieme restano sempre accattivanti.
Pur essendo l'episodio più debole del boxset, non è da buttare via dato che comunque riesce a intrattenere tra scene dinamiche e piene di azione che mi hanno fatto divertire.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
“THE HOUSE ON THE EDGE OF CHAOS”
Il TARDIS porta il Dottore e Lucie in una vasta casa sul pianeta conosciuto come Horton 's Orb. L'unica casa su Horton 's Orb, infatti. Al di fuori delle sue finestre fuori misura non c'è nulla. Nessuna terra. Nessun mare. Nessun cielo. Nessuna vita. Solo una distesa infinita di disturbo statico.
All'interno della casa ci sono dei piani di sopra e dei piani di sotto - servitori di sotto, e gente perbene delle migliori famiglie di sopra. Ahimè, al giorno d'oggi ci sono troppe poche donne appetibili nei piani superiori. Quindi c'è un posto vacante per la signorina Lucie Miller, single e senza legami...
Fuori dalla casa, l'interferenza continua a ululare. Solo che ora, l'interferenza vuole entrare.
Si va sul surreale per questo episodio di Robson, che come al solito riesce nel suo intento di creare idee fantascientifiche stravaganti, più incentrate sull'impatto che hanno sull'immaginazione dell'ascoltatore piuttosto che su dei concetti spiegabili.
In questo caso abbiamo il contrasto tra l'ordinario, una magione che potrebbe benissimo essere uscita dall'Inghilterra vittoriana (se non per il fatto che si estende per diversi chilometri), e l'inspiegabile, dato dall'assenza di un esterno, sostituito da questa interferenza statica letale. Tutto questo potrebbe sembrare claustrofobico, ma in realtà Robson preferisce concentrarsi sulle dinamiche interne, in questa società divisa in due classi, in cui l'ordine deve essere mantenuto ad ogni costo per impedire al caos di entrare.
Qui, il fatto che i personaggi abbiano una personalità archetipica è funzione della storia stessa, in quanto ognuno conosce il proprio posto e ci si deve attenere ad ogni costo, riuscendo comunque a destare interesse per quanto riguarda il loro modo di rapportarsi tra loro. In particolare il focus è dato sulla famiglia fondatrice degli Horton, che si sono posti al vertice della loro società, ma che celano molti segreti anche tra di loro.
Il Dottore e Lucie vengono separati e in tal modo entrambi riescono ad indagare su questo strano luogo da due punti di vista differenti, portando alla luce fatti inquietanti sulla fondazione della casa. Il ritmo della narrazione scorre di buon passo, ma la risoluzione finale è quasi un anticlimax. Tuttavia questo difetto può essere perdonato per l'ottimo lavoro che è stato fatto nel costruire questa ambientazione e per lo spessore che Robson è essere riuscito a dare a questa società rendendola realistica. Sebbene il cast di supporto sia costituito solo da cinque attori, questa limitazione non si è mai sentita, facendo sembrare plausibile che in questa immensa magione siano davvero presenti centinaia di persone.
Lo promuovo quindi a pieni voti, e il cliffhanger ci avvierà verso l'episodio finale.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
“ISLAND OF THE FENDAHL”
Il Fendahl è la morte dell'evoluzione, l'orrore che giace in agguato all'estremità della catena alimentare.
Il Fendahl è la morte stessa.
E il Fendahl è morto. Il Dottore l'ha distrutto molti anni fa, in un'altra incarnazione, quando l'ha incontrato in un posto chiamato Fetchborough.
Ma se il Fendahl è morto... come può tornare a vivere, sulla remota isola di Fandor?
Negli anni Settanta, il Quarto Dottore e Leela sono riusciti a fermare il Fendahl e, per impedire il suo ritorno, hanno gettato il suo teschio in una supernova; ma ora si è liberato, e riprenderà da dove era rimasto, questa volta coinvolgendo l'Ottavo e Lucie.
I due, dopo che il Dottore è rimasto vittima di un incidente, finiscono per essere protagonisti di un duplice scambio di persone, sulla remota isola di Fandor. Tra persone scomparse e sette, la storia si ripete, e questa volta il costo potrebbe essere molto più alto.
Questo episodio riprende molto bene l'atmosfera e i toni del serial classico al quale fa da sequel, dipingendo con degli impeccabili effetti sonori questa piccola isola in cui le innovazioni della modernità faticano ad arrivare, e le tradizioni locali sono più forti che mai.
I personaggi, in particolare il dottor Dieter Fendelman e l'agente di polizia Diane Howard sono ben delineati, e per una volta è facile provare empatia per loro.
Ci sono molte menzioni a The Image of the Fendahl, sia per quanto riguarda gli eventi sia per i personaggi, di conseguenza credo sia più godibile se prima si riguardano quegli episodi, tuttavia tutto quello che è necessario sapere viene ripetuto qui.
È alquanto sorprendente come delle storie che apparentemente non hanno nulla in comune siano in realtà collegate tra loro (sebbene le due centrali in maniera molto più labile). A differenza di quanto spesso accade nel riprendere mostri già sconfitti in passato, dove solitamente ritornano dalla morte senza una spiegazione credibile, all'interno di questo boxset sono già inseriti tutti gli indizi per spiegare come il Fendahl sia potuto ricomparire sulla Terra.
Anche in questo caso Lucie si ritaglia un grande spazio a pari merito con il Dottore, e la risoluzione finale spetta a lei in un eccitante culmine, meritato dato che in fin dei conti il volume è dedicato a lei. Queste storie certamente hanno contribuito a farmi affezionare ancora di più al suo personaggio, tanto che ora la metterei tra le mie companion dell'Ottavo preferite insieme a Charley e Liv.
Nel complesso questo finale è davvero ottimo, con una trama brillante e intelligente, ma non inutilmente complessa, tra scene e battute stupende, e chiude il boxset ricollegando tutti i fili.
Nota sulla musica: come al solito Jamie Robertson è ottimo, e oltre a riarrangiamenti del suo spettacolare “Doctor's Theme” per Otto, ci sono dei brani veramente innovativi e moderni, che spesso richiamano la personalità di Lucie.
Il fatto è che i buchi neri sono grandi, neri e mortali, e bisogna essere pazzi per avvicinarcisi. Perché tutto ciò che cade in un buco nero finisce schiacciato nella singolarità.
Sfortunatamente, il Dottore è impazzito, o almeno così sembra, e ha fatto volare il suo TARDIS oltre l'orizzonte degli eventi di un buco nero, facendo arenare lui e la sua compagna Lucie Miller su un planetoide proprio all'interno dell'orizzonte degli eventi. Insieme a un disco volante dei Dalek... e qualcos'altro. Perché questo non è un buco nero ordinario...
Questa è la Culla dell'Oscurità.
“Le Ulteriori Avventure di Lucie Miller” è un boxset uscito 8 anni dopo la fine del relativo range, aggiungendo storie che si vanno a collocare tra la prima e la seconda stagione. Trovo significativo che questa era sia stata così rilevante e consolidata da meritarsi un revival, come se la Big Finish ci andasse ad aggiungere delle avventure mancanti così come fa con la serie televisiva, mettendole di fatto sullo stesso piano.
Nonostante io non abbia ancora ascoltato le stagioni successive, in questo boxset è evidente quanto Paul McGann e Sheridan Smith fossero emozionati da questa reunion e come gli autori fossero pienamente avvezzi ai loro personaggi, rendendo sia il loro legame sia le storie stesse molto più solide rispetto a certi episodi della prima stagione.
Iniziando con The Dalek Trap, i nostri eroi hanno modo di imbattersi nuovamente nei soliti sterminatori seriali, ma questo non è il tipico episodio con i Dalek.
Il Dottore, per rispondere ad una chiamata di soccorso, ha finito per schiantarsi su un planetoide dentro un buco nero, e ora sembra come in trance, lasciando a Lucie il compito di giostrarsi in questo mondo alieno oscuro e popolato da mostri, in cui i ricordi stessi iniziano a sbiadire.
Per questo motivo, Paul McGann ha ben poche battute nel corso dell'episodio, e anche i Dalek sono un po' marginali, perché tutti hanno un nemico in comune molto peggiore: l'Oscurità.
Tutti i riflettori sono quindi su Lucie, e lei spicca brillantemente, interagendo con gli altri due superstiti, esplorando l'enigma di questo strano posto, tenendo testa ai Dalek, e tutto questo nonostante il rischio di dimenticare pure il proprio nome. Ha inoltre delle fantastiche battute, espresse come al solito nel suo spiccato e colorito accento di Blackpool.
Anche se non succede molto in termini d'azione, la trama è molto misteriosa. Per certi versi ricorda The Impossible Planet (dopotutto siamo proprio su un pianeta dentro un buco nero, con un'entità misteriosa che desidera uscirne), eppure ha anche un tono molto diverso. Tuttavia, nessuna risposta verrà data qui: anche se a prima vista poteva sembrare un boxset di storie separate, c'è un filo comune che le unisce, e per scoprire cosa è davvero successo dovremo aspettare il finale.
Davvero un ottimo inizio, non c'è che dire.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
“THE REVOLUTION GAME”
È il compleanno di Lucie e le spetta il suo regalo di compleanno. Ma qualunque cosa si aspetti, non è quello che otterrà nel mondo coloniale di Castus Sigma nell'anno 3025: posti in prima fila per il Retro Roller Derby interplanetario - sponsorizzato da Heliacorp, "trasformare la luce del sole in oro"!
È più di un gioco, però. Per i concorrenti, è una questione di vita o di morte - una Nuova Vita con Heliacorp, o una morte vivente su Castus Sigma.
O, in questo giorno fatale, una morte molto reale. Perché ci sono strane creature che vivono sulla pianura, al di là della colonia. Creature con tutte le ragioni per voler sabotare i giochi. Creature con un risentimento.
Questo secondo episodio è molto più tradizionale e presenta il tipico binomio società senza scrupoli vs. forme di vita indigene sfruttate per guadagno.
La trama è semplice e diretta, e non vi è molto da dire oltre a quanto già espresso nella sinossi. C'è un piccolo plot twist che ammetto di non aver visto, ma nulla di eclatante.
Nonostante siano presenti degli elementi interessanti, il risultato finale appare un po' superficiale. Ci viene presentato un sistema planetario di diversi mondi colonia e una specie indigena dalle proprietà uniche, ma purtroppo nessuna di queste cose ha il tempo necessario per essere esplorato a dovere. Stessa cosa per i personaggi, che rimangono piatti e stereotipati, divisi nella dicotomia “buoni” e “cattivi” senza alcuna sfumatura nel mezzo. Forse avrebbe giovato nell'essere un episodio in 4 parti da 30 minuti, piuttosto che uno da 60, per poter dare un maggiore approfondimento senza che tutte le scene sembrino affrettate. Anche così, però, la morale resta comunque banale e l'idea di poter dare avvio ad una rivoluzione per liberare un'intera specie oppressa senza colpo ferire è fin troppo ottimistica (anche se si adatta perfettamente all'umore solare e spensierato che il Dottore e Lucie hanno in questo periodo).
Inoltre trovo che l'idea del pericoloso campionato di rollerblade funziona male in audio, dato che è difficile capire cosa stia effettivamente succedendo nell'arena. Per questo motivo, e anche per la leggerezza della storia, forse sarebbe stata una trama più adatta ai fumetti.
Grazie al cielo l'interpretazione di Paul McGann e Sheridan Smith risolleva di parecchio questa storia, con i loro personaggi che sia presi singolarmente sia insieme restano sempre accattivanti.
Pur essendo l'episodio più debole del boxset, non è da buttare via dato che comunque riesce a intrattenere tra scene dinamiche e piene di azione che mi hanno fatto divertire.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
“THE HOUSE ON THE EDGE OF CHAOS”
Il TARDIS porta il Dottore e Lucie in una vasta casa sul pianeta conosciuto come Horton 's Orb. L'unica casa su Horton 's Orb, infatti. Al di fuori delle sue finestre fuori misura non c'è nulla. Nessuna terra. Nessun mare. Nessun cielo. Nessuna vita. Solo una distesa infinita di disturbo statico.
All'interno della casa ci sono dei piani di sopra e dei piani di sotto - servitori di sotto, e gente perbene delle migliori famiglie di sopra. Ahimè, al giorno d'oggi ci sono troppe poche donne appetibili nei piani superiori. Quindi c'è un posto vacante per la signorina Lucie Miller, single e senza legami...
Fuori dalla casa, l'interferenza continua a ululare. Solo che ora, l'interferenza vuole entrare.
Si va sul surreale per questo episodio di Robson, che come al solito riesce nel suo intento di creare idee fantascientifiche stravaganti, più incentrate sull'impatto che hanno sull'immaginazione dell'ascoltatore piuttosto che su dei concetti spiegabili.
In questo caso abbiamo il contrasto tra l'ordinario, una magione che potrebbe benissimo essere uscita dall'Inghilterra vittoriana (se non per il fatto che si estende per diversi chilometri), e l'inspiegabile, dato dall'assenza di un esterno, sostituito da questa interferenza statica letale. Tutto questo potrebbe sembrare claustrofobico, ma in realtà Robson preferisce concentrarsi sulle dinamiche interne, in questa società divisa in due classi, in cui l'ordine deve essere mantenuto ad ogni costo per impedire al caos di entrare.
Qui, il fatto che i personaggi abbiano una personalità archetipica è funzione della storia stessa, in quanto ognuno conosce il proprio posto e ci si deve attenere ad ogni costo, riuscendo comunque a destare interesse per quanto riguarda il loro modo di rapportarsi tra loro. In particolare il focus è dato sulla famiglia fondatrice degli Horton, che si sono posti al vertice della loro società, ma che celano molti segreti anche tra di loro.
Il Dottore e Lucie vengono separati e in tal modo entrambi riescono ad indagare su questo strano luogo da due punti di vista differenti, portando alla luce fatti inquietanti sulla fondazione della casa. Il ritmo della narrazione scorre di buon passo, ma la risoluzione finale è quasi un anticlimax. Tuttavia questo difetto può essere perdonato per l'ottimo lavoro che è stato fatto nel costruire questa ambientazione e per lo spessore che Robson è essere riuscito a dare a questa società rendendola realistica. Sebbene il cast di supporto sia costituito solo da cinque attori, questa limitazione non si è mai sentita, facendo sembrare plausibile che in questa immensa magione siano davvero presenti centinaia di persone.
Lo promuovo quindi a pieni voti, e il cliffhanger ci avvierà verso l'episodio finale.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
“ISLAND OF THE FENDAHL”
Il Fendahl è la morte dell'evoluzione, l'orrore che giace in agguato all'estremità della catena alimentare.
Il Fendahl è la morte stessa.
E il Fendahl è morto. Il Dottore l'ha distrutto molti anni fa, in un'altra incarnazione, quando l'ha incontrato in un posto chiamato Fetchborough.
Ma se il Fendahl è morto... come può tornare a vivere, sulla remota isola di Fandor?
Negli anni Settanta, il Quarto Dottore e Leela sono riusciti a fermare il Fendahl e, per impedire il suo ritorno, hanno gettato il suo teschio in una supernova; ma ora si è liberato, e riprenderà da dove era rimasto, questa volta coinvolgendo l'Ottavo e Lucie.
I due, dopo che il Dottore è rimasto vittima di un incidente, finiscono per essere protagonisti di un duplice scambio di persone, sulla remota isola di Fandor. Tra persone scomparse e sette, la storia si ripete, e questa volta il costo potrebbe essere molto più alto.
Questo episodio riprende molto bene l'atmosfera e i toni del serial classico al quale fa da sequel, dipingendo con degli impeccabili effetti sonori questa piccola isola in cui le innovazioni della modernità faticano ad arrivare, e le tradizioni locali sono più forti che mai.
I personaggi, in particolare il dottor Dieter Fendelman e l'agente di polizia Diane Howard sono ben delineati, e per una volta è facile provare empatia per loro.
Ci sono molte menzioni a The Image of the Fendahl, sia per quanto riguarda gli eventi sia per i personaggi, di conseguenza credo sia più godibile se prima si riguardano quegli episodi, tuttavia tutto quello che è necessario sapere viene ripetuto qui.
È alquanto sorprendente come delle storie che apparentemente non hanno nulla in comune siano in realtà collegate tra loro (sebbene le due centrali in maniera molto più labile). A differenza di quanto spesso accade nel riprendere mostri già sconfitti in passato, dove solitamente ritornano dalla morte senza una spiegazione credibile, all'interno di questo boxset sono già inseriti tutti gli indizi per spiegare come il Fendahl sia potuto ricomparire sulla Terra.
Anche in questo caso Lucie si ritaglia un grande spazio a pari merito con il Dottore, e la risoluzione finale spetta a lei in un eccitante culmine, meritato dato che in fin dei conti il volume è dedicato a lei. Queste storie certamente hanno contribuito a farmi affezionare ancora di più al suo personaggio, tanto che ora la metterei tra le mie companion dell'Ottavo preferite insieme a Charley e Liv.
Nel complesso questo finale è davvero ottimo, con una trama brillante e intelligente, ma non inutilmente complessa, tra scene e battute stupende, e chiude il boxset ricollegando tutti i fili.
Nota sulla musica: come al solito Jamie Robertson è ottimo, e oltre a riarrangiamenti del suo spettacolare “Doctor's Theme” per Otto, ci sono dei brani veramente innovativi e moderni, che spesso richiamano la personalità di Lucie.
May 7, 2022
Here, Big Finish takes the unusual step of jumping back into their own chronology to add additional stories between those already released. This is common enough for most Doctors, since the needs of internal chronology take a back seat to whichever companion is required for a given tale, but hasn’t been for the Eighth Doctor. Here, though, are four new stories featuring Lucie Miller, set at some point during the original run of the Eighth Doctor Adventures line. Despite the title, they feature the Doctor as much, if not more, than Lucie and the first three are largely (although not entirely) standalone.
• The Dalek Trap – The first episode has the unusual device of having the Doctor be effectively incapacitated for almost the entire story. This, of course, places Lucie front-stage, leaving her as the primary character to try and deal with the situation they find themselves in – marooned on an isolated planetoid that is also home to a crashed Dalek spacecraft. The Daleks are also behaving oddly and its initially unclear to what extent they are responsible for what’s happening or are just taking advantage of something else. Seeing Lucie so crucial to the plot is good, especially for the opening episode of a series with her name in the title although arguably she isn’t really stretched, and the alien setting doesn’t make much of her distinction from other companions. 3 stars.
• The Revolution Game – In many respects, despite the lack of returning monsters, this is a more traditional story, with the Doctor up against corporate greed on an arid colony world. There are a few twists along the way, largely concerning the native life on the planet, which there is rather more to than it first appears. Aside from helping to investigate the central mystery, Lucie’s main role here is getting to take part in a local roller derby, something that’s less effective on audio than it would be with visuals – a voice-over from a sports commentator would have helped here, although in fairness the details aren’t a major part of the plot. 3.5 stars.
• The House on the Edge of Chaos – Unusually, there is no story set in Earth’s past in this collection, but this is the closest it gets. It’s set on a human colony world where things have been set up to mirror the social structure (and, apparently, the costumes and décor) of early 20th century England – a sort of Downton Abbey in space. Albeit one with a mysterious force preventing anyone from leaving the vast house, which now seems to be leaking inside and killing people. It’s a well-done story, with some thought having gone into how such a society could function, with a good mix of investigative and action elements… although the resolution does, in the end, feel a little abrupt. That Lucie is instantly identified by the housekeeper as being upper-class material and treated as such from then on is also an amusing change for the character. 4.5 stars.
• Island of the Fendahl – This tale set in the present day is to my mind, a more successful sequel to TV story Image of the Fendahl than Big Finish’s previous attempt to do so as part of their Torchwood series. It has a distinct feel of Folk Horror, the genre that the original TV story was emulating, creating an entirely new story that fits with the atmosphere of the original – of which some knowledge is required, since there are a number of connections. There several twists along the way, leading to an effective finale that ties some apparently disparate threads together. 4.5 stars.
• The Dalek Trap – The first episode has the unusual device of having the Doctor be effectively incapacitated for almost the entire story. This, of course, places Lucie front-stage, leaving her as the primary character to try and deal with the situation they find themselves in – marooned on an isolated planetoid that is also home to a crashed Dalek spacecraft. The Daleks are also behaving oddly and its initially unclear to what extent they are responsible for what’s happening or are just taking advantage of something else. Seeing Lucie so crucial to the plot is good, especially for the opening episode of a series with her name in the title although arguably she isn’t really stretched, and the alien setting doesn’t make much of her distinction from other companions. 3 stars.
• The Revolution Game – In many respects, despite the lack of returning monsters, this is a more traditional story, with the Doctor up against corporate greed on an arid colony world. There are a few twists along the way, largely concerning the native life on the planet, which there is rather more to than it first appears. Aside from helping to investigate the central mystery, Lucie’s main role here is getting to take part in a local roller derby, something that’s less effective on audio than it would be with visuals – a voice-over from a sports commentator would have helped here, although in fairness the details aren’t a major part of the plot. 3.5 stars.
• The House on the Edge of Chaos – Unusually, there is no story set in Earth’s past in this collection, but this is the closest it gets. It’s set on a human colony world where things have been set up to mirror the social structure (and, apparently, the costumes and décor) of early 20th century England – a sort of Downton Abbey in space. Albeit one with a mysterious force preventing anyone from leaving the vast house, which now seems to be leaking inside and killing people. It’s a well-done story, with some thought having gone into how such a society could function, with a good mix of investigative and action elements… although the resolution does, in the end, feel a little abrupt. That Lucie is instantly identified by the housekeeper as being upper-class material and treated as such from then on is also an amusing change for the character. 4.5 stars.
• Island of the Fendahl – This tale set in the present day is to my mind, a more successful sequel to TV story Image of the Fendahl than Big Finish’s previous attempt to do so as part of their Torchwood series. It has a distinct feel of Folk Horror, the genre that the original TV story was emulating, creating an entirely new story that fits with the atmosphere of the original – of which some knowledge is required, since there are a number of connections. There several twists along the way, leading to an effective finale that ties some apparently disparate threads together. 4.5 stars.
December 9, 2020
This audio series was a whisker away from 5* All four stories are excellent, production values are high and the cast are brilliant. Sheridan Smith is everything you could ask for in a companion and the perfect foil to McGann's slightly more serious portrayal of the Doctor. The Dalek Trap/Island of the Fendahl make a great combo featuring some of the best classic Who monsters.
My biggest disappointment however is the lack of connection between the other two stories. If you look at some of the other linked Who stories (such as the Nest Cottage saga for example) there are common threads in all and a logical progression. In the last story here there's mention that all The Doctor's random destinations are in fact points on a giant intergalactic pentagram - which is awesome! I just wished that there was more connection to show this and maybe the shadow of the Fendahl festering in the background. Sadly this anthology is very episodic and the stories are vastly different from each other (all brilliant mind you)
The only other thing I didn't like was the remix of the Dr. Who theme. Otherwise this is at the top end of Big Finish's Doctor Who range and a real treat for fans.
Recommended.
My biggest disappointment however is the lack of connection between the other two stories. If you look at some of the other linked Who stories (such as the Nest Cottage saga for example) there are common threads in all and a logical progression. In the last story here there's mention that all The Doctor's random destinations are in fact points on a giant intergalactic pentagram - which is awesome! I just wished that there was more connection to show this and maybe the shadow of the Fendahl festering in the background. Sadly this anthology is very episodic and the stories are vastly different from each other (all brilliant mind you)
The only other thing I didn't like was the remix of the Dr. Who theme. Otherwise this is at the top end of Big Finish's Doctor Who range and a real treat for fans.
Recommended.
June 3, 2021
The Dalek Trap:
6/10
Verdict: Optional
Very vague plot with a very murky resolution, but it was decently fun. Interesting concept to go with a story with unclear beginning, middle and end, but it maybe worked? It was so confusing that I'm not quite sure what to say about it
The Revolution Game:
7/10
Verdict: Optional
Very fun plot. It's pretty formulaic in parts, but I think it has enough flair to be enjoyable. The Jengu are a fun species, and I would totally take a whole story exploring an alien society influenced by human culture.
The House on the Edge of Chaos:
6/10
Verdict: Optional
Had a great start with a really intriguing setting and ongoing mystery, however it sort of loses me with it's plot after a while. The reveal of the main villain is pretty dull, I feel like I've seen it or similar conclusions in 5 or so other stories.
Island of the Fendahl:
6/10
Verdict: Optional
Good start with an immediate call to action, a decent setting and some good side characters. An intriguing plot starts to settle in, and there are murmurs of a great potential 2 parter, but it's kind of let down by the conclusion. As soon as they enter the cavern, it becomes exposition heaven, not only ruining this plot, but also ruining another plot from this boxset that only barely worked on it's own.
6/10
Verdict: Optional
Very vague plot with a very murky resolution, but it was decently fun. Interesting concept to go with a story with unclear beginning, middle and end, but it maybe worked? It was so confusing that I'm not quite sure what to say about it
The Revolution Game:
7/10
Verdict: Optional
Very fun plot. It's pretty formulaic in parts, but I think it has enough flair to be enjoyable. The Jengu are a fun species, and I would totally take a whole story exploring an alien society influenced by human culture.
The House on the Edge of Chaos:
6/10
Verdict: Optional
Had a great start with a really intriguing setting and ongoing mystery, however it sort of loses me with it's plot after a while. The reveal of the main villain is pretty dull, I feel like I've seen it or similar conclusions in 5 or so other stories.
Island of the Fendahl:
6/10
Verdict: Optional
Good start with an immediate call to action, a decent setting and some good side characters. An intriguing plot starts to settle in, and there are murmurs of a great potential 2 parter, but it's kind of let down by the conclusion. As soon as they enter the cavern, it becomes exposition heaven, not only ruining this plot, but also ruining another plot from this boxset that only barely worked on it's own.
June 27, 2020
I got to the end of The Doctor’s first series with Lucie, so I figured I’d dive into this set before continuing into series 2. I love her dynamic with The Doctor and how playful and sassy they are with each other. Her speech in the first story is both empowering and amusing in how it’s delivered. And the music that gets showcased in isolation is excellent.
June 13, 2020
Quite enjoyable. Lucie is always a fun companion.
June 11, 2021
OK collection of stories with the 8th Doctor & Lucie. 1 - 2 stars; 2 - 3.5 stars; 3 - 3.5 stars; 4 - 3 stars (includes the line: "Uh-oh... hippies." - The Doctor)
April 26, 2023
[audiobook]
July 13, 2019
Well, that was fun.
I have never been the biggest fan of Lucie Miller, but I think I got used to her by now and she definitely is not as annoying to me anymore.
The one thing that really impressed me with this release was definitely the music.
I absolutely LOVE the music! Normally I am a bit indifferent to the background music, but for this one, they really made an effort and even someone as tone-deaf as I am impressed.
Well done.
The first episode is one of those you have to listen to again when you know how everything comes together. Which is not necessarily a bad thing, I love being kept in the dark. I think it is really good that the story is told from the point of view of Lucie and that the Doctor is out of commission for most of the story.
It keeps you guessing and also gives Lucie much more space to shine.
Also- I wish we had Paul McGann singing more often. Since he apparently can sing, it is a bit of a waste to not use this talent. And he has such a wonderful voice.
Second episode, the Revolution Game-
weeelll... we were bound to get one of these stories.
I am aware that Doctor Who has always been close to a certain political spectrum and I am NOT necessarily with the opposing faction (in fact, due to my up-bringing, this is one of the reasons I like it).
But this could not have been more openly a message for this way of thinking if Lucie and the 8th Doctor concluded the day to have tea and scones with Rosa Luxemburg. (Oh, there is an idea. An interesting revolutionary historical female figure which we have not visited so far. I am sure we will meet her sooner or later. )
I am pretty sure the critics will call this story out for that- the political message was just a bit too much in the face for my taste.
Apart from that-
I enjoyed the action sequences and although the gladiatorial arena scenes were nothing really new, they were fresh enough to keep it interesting.
Episode 3- House at the edge of chaos.
I was a bit disappointed that the "monster" did not turn out to be what I thought it would be. But that is a minor niggle. Sadly, this episode does not necessarily bring many new or fresh ideas to the table. The society in the house was something that reminded me very much of what had been done in Chimes of Midnight. It was fun enough, but just not very original.
However, I definitely enjoyed the last episode the most- it was a lot of fun. Great humour.
I liked the setting and the threat plus of course all the little comedic bits. McGann just brilliantly delivers all these funny little remarks... and you just wonder how he keeps a straight face?
Also, thumbs up for the weird German person. Great to see we are not only villain material, we also have some proper weirdos over here.
Is it just me, or do German characters pop up in Big Finish more and more recently? Might be a wave to us fans over here on the continent. Waving back.
So, what do I think of the set overall?
It was interesting. It was a nice change of pace from the other, darker, 8th Doctor stories.
Lucie, for me at least, is not as annoying anymore as she was when I first heard her. But still, she will never become my favorite.
How is this compared to the original run of Lucie stories? They fit in seamlessly. It really was a great effort to get the whole setting and atmosphere just right. Except they did an even better job with the background music.
Would I buy another one if this was made a series? Very likely.
There are certainly worse things to listen to or to watch out there. And a lot less fun.
However, I just really enjoy my 8th Doctor dark and on the run- cannot wait for the next Ravenous. And of course the Time War stories next month.
I have never been the biggest fan of Lucie Miller, but I think I got used to her by now and she definitely is not as annoying to me anymore.
The one thing that really impressed me with this release was definitely the music.
I absolutely LOVE the music! Normally I am a bit indifferent to the background music, but for this one, they really made an effort and even someone as tone-deaf as I am impressed.
Well done.
The first episode is one of those you have to listen to again when you know how everything comes together. Which is not necessarily a bad thing, I love being kept in the dark. I think it is really good that the story is told from the point of view of Lucie and that the Doctor is out of commission for most of the story.
It keeps you guessing and also gives Lucie much more space to shine.
Also- I wish we had Paul McGann singing more often. Since he apparently can sing, it is a bit of a waste to not use this talent. And he has such a wonderful voice.
Second episode, the Revolution Game-
weeelll... we were bound to get one of these stories.
I am aware that Doctor Who has always been close to a certain political spectrum and I am NOT necessarily with the opposing faction (in fact, due to my up-bringing, this is one of the reasons I like it).
But this could not have been more openly a message for this way of thinking if Lucie and the 8th Doctor concluded the day to have tea and scones with Rosa Luxemburg. (Oh, there is an idea. An interesting revolutionary historical female figure which we have not visited so far. I am sure we will meet her sooner or later. )
I am pretty sure the critics will call this story out for that- the political message was just a bit too much in the face for my taste.
Apart from that-
I enjoyed the action sequences and although the gladiatorial arena scenes were nothing really new, they were fresh enough to keep it interesting.
Episode 3- House at the edge of chaos.
I was a bit disappointed that the "monster" did not turn out to be what I thought it would be. But that is a minor niggle. Sadly, this episode does not necessarily bring many new or fresh ideas to the table. The society in the house was something that reminded me very much of what had been done in Chimes of Midnight. It was fun enough, but just not very original.
However, I definitely enjoyed the last episode the most- it was a lot of fun. Great humour.
I liked the setting and the threat plus of course all the little comedic bits. McGann just brilliantly delivers all these funny little remarks... and you just wonder how he keeps a straight face?
Also, thumbs up for the weird German person. Great to see we are not only villain material, we also have some proper weirdos over here.
Is it just me, or do German characters pop up in Big Finish more and more recently? Might be a wave to us fans over here on the continent. Waving back.
So, what do I think of the set overall?
It was interesting. It was a nice change of pace from the other, darker, 8th Doctor stories.
Lucie, for me at least, is not as annoying anymore as she was when I first heard her. But still, she will never become my favorite.
How is this compared to the original run of Lucie stories? They fit in seamlessly. It really was a great effort to get the whole setting and atmosphere just right. Except they did an even better job with the background music.
Would I buy another one if this was made a series? Very likely.
There are certainly worse things to listen to or to watch out there. And a lot less fun.
However, I just really enjoy my 8th Doctor dark and on the run- cannot wait for the next Ravenous. And of course the Time War stories next month.
September 20, 2019
Sheridan Smith returns as Lucie Miller in a new set of adventures to celebrate Big Finish’s 20th anniversary, and takes place between the first and second series of the The Eighth Doctor Adventures range.
1. The Dalek Trap by Nicholas Briggs ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This set begins with a Dalek story set inside a black hole with the focus being on Lucie working out how to survive with the help of Raz and Jik, played by Amanda Hurwitz and Matt Lloyd Davies respectivley. This concept results in a relatively Doctor, and even Dalek light story that whilst intriguing may require another listen after listen after finishing this set to fully comprehend it in its entirety.
2. The Revolution Game by Alice Cavender ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Doctor takes Lucie to a future colony world for her birthday, a decision which leads to a Roller Derby and revolutions lead by insect like aliens with names such as Spartacus and Tallulah. What follows is a simple but effective and sometimes humorous story that also maintains a sense of drama and tension.
3. The House on the Edge of Chaos by Eddie Robson ⭐⭐⭐⭐
When the Doctor and Lucie find land in the only house on the planet called Hortons Orb, they soon find themselves trapped with a sea of static and the outstanding and an out of date upstairs downstairs style system on the inside. These two elements blend together well to create SI-Fi story with the feel of a period set drama. This set up generates an air of mystery adding to is appeal. It did however seem like it could have benefited from a slightly longer run time as it is significantly shorter than the others in the set with almost twenty minuets being taken up by isolated music from the episode. It is a nice touch but some people may expect the episode to be longer when they are promised approximately sixty minutes of story.
4. Island of the Fendahl by Alan Barnes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The doctor begins to suspect that the Fendahl, an entity with the power to destroy whole planets has returned on the remote island of island of Fandor, but how can this be so when the Fendahl was destroyed and by the Doctor’s own hand? Whilst “Island of the Fendahl” is a sequel to the Tom Baker serial “Image of the Fendahl” it is a captivating tale in its own right, creating Gothic mystery that effectively blends magic with science fiction. One downside is that due to the very nature of sequels some will feel the need to watch the original first but the writer does a good job at catching people up with the mythology of the Fendahl whilst making the episode an engaging, dramatic end effective end to the set and also manages a surprise or two along the way.
This set was a great and is surprise and is recommended for those who enjoyed the pre box set days of the The Eighth Doctor Adventures and those who miss Sheridan Smith and Lucie Miller.
1. The Dalek Trap by Nicholas Briggs ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This set begins with a Dalek story set inside a black hole with the focus being on Lucie working out how to survive with the help of Raz and Jik, played by Amanda Hurwitz and Matt Lloyd Davies respectivley. This concept results in a relatively Doctor, and even Dalek light story that whilst intriguing may require another listen after listen after finishing this set to fully comprehend it in its entirety.
2. The Revolution Game by Alice Cavender ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Doctor takes Lucie to a future colony world for her birthday, a decision which leads to a Roller Derby and revolutions lead by insect like aliens with names such as Spartacus and Tallulah. What follows is a simple but effective and sometimes humorous story that also maintains a sense of drama and tension.
3. The House on the Edge of Chaos by Eddie Robson ⭐⭐⭐⭐
When the Doctor and Lucie find land in the only house on the planet called Hortons Orb, they soon find themselves trapped with a sea of static and the outstanding and an out of date upstairs downstairs style system on the inside. These two elements blend together well to create SI-Fi story with the feel of a period set drama. This set up generates an air of mystery adding to is appeal. It did however seem like it could have benefited from a slightly longer run time as it is significantly shorter than the others in the set with almost twenty minuets being taken up by isolated music from the episode. It is a nice touch but some people may expect the episode to be longer when they are promised approximately sixty minutes of story.
4. Island of the Fendahl by Alan Barnes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The doctor begins to suspect that the Fendahl, an entity with the power to destroy whole planets has returned on the remote island of island of Fandor, but how can this be so when the Fendahl was destroyed and by the Doctor’s own hand? Whilst “Island of the Fendahl” is a sequel to the Tom Baker serial “Image of the Fendahl” it is a captivating tale in its own right, creating Gothic mystery that effectively blends magic with science fiction. One downside is that due to the very nature of sequels some will feel the need to watch the original first but the writer does a good job at catching people up with the mythology of the Fendahl whilst making the episode an engaging, dramatic end effective end to the set and also manages a surprise or two along the way.
This set was a great and is surprise and is recommended for those who enjoyed the pre box set days of the The Eighth Doctor Adventures and those who miss Sheridan Smith and Lucie Miller.
July 12, 2019
It is a bit disappointing when only half the stories in a box set with a woman as the title character actually pass the Bechdel test! Nick's story had NO other women but the companion, when there was totally no story reason why one of the two ship workers couldn't have been a woman instead of having it as two men (or even both women! But then it would be a Woman's story whereas all men is just normal...) But you did get the Daleks saying, Lucie Bleeding Miller! Which was quite cool.
The next story was written by a woman and I hoped for better. There was only one other woman character however. And her and Lucie discussed, her boyfriend, the Doctor and the male alien. It was a pretty interesting story though. Hibernating aliens, terrorists/freedom fighters and a rollerderby!
The third story was my favourite! It had at least THREE whole other women in it! It passed the Bechdel test. It had a woman hitting on Lucie! It felt like a classic who story of the civilisation on another planet that had become a really messed up colony. But one with actually enough women to be sustainable. I really enjoyed it.
The fourth story also had three women! And passed the Bechdel test. Though actually managing that with only half the stories in 2019 is pretty poor. The last story tied up the loose ends from the first, but it didn't really grab me. The horror just felt a bit silly. It wasn't a good spooky story and with too many references to the classic story it didn't feel like it drove itself enough. It felt more like cliche than really good folk horror. Also it had the men explaining the science to the women, and the women not getting it. And the Doctor actually called Lucie Stupid, to her face at one point! Which really is NOT the type of relationship that Lucie and the Doctor used to have!
That said it was nice to hear Paul McGann's lovely voice and have Lucie back. I just feel like they deserved better stories.
The next story was written by a woman and I hoped for better. There was only one other woman character however. And her and Lucie discussed, her boyfriend, the Doctor and the male alien. It was a pretty interesting story though. Hibernating aliens, terrorists/freedom fighters and a rollerderby!
The third story was my favourite! It had at least THREE whole other women in it! It passed the Bechdel test. It had a woman hitting on Lucie! It felt like a classic who story of the civilisation on another planet that had become a really messed up colony. But one with actually enough women to be sustainable. I really enjoyed it.
The fourth story also had three women! And passed the Bechdel test. Though actually managing that with only half the stories in 2019 is pretty poor. The last story tied up the loose ends from the first, but it didn't really grab me. The horror just felt a bit silly. It wasn't a good spooky story and with too many references to the classic story it didn't feel like it drove itself enough. It felt more like cliche than really good folk horror. Also it had the men explaining the science to the women, and the women not getting it. And the Doctor actually called Lucie Stupid, to her face at one point! Which really is NOT the type of relationship that Lucie and the Doctor used to have!
That said it was nice to hear Paul McGann's lovely voice and have Lucie back. I just feel like they deserved better stories.
July 23, 2019
This was pretty good? Definitely worth the $20 I put into it. The series had a nice surprising interconnectedness to it, with the kinda weird setup of the beginning episode being totally paid off by the end. I enjoyed the last episode even without prior knowledge of the baddie, which was cool. (Also: does it seem to anyone else that the Doctor has to deal with corrupt future corporations a lot? Is there just a single time period that's like entirely evil space companies, or is it a bit more spread out?)
December 16, 2020
4 cracking tales, The House on the Edge if Chaos takes the top spot for me, but all 4 are really good. Just finished a second listen through, maintain that the House on the Edge of Chaos is the best of the bunch, then The Revolution Game, and The Dalek Trap and Island of the Fendahl tying, they're not bad at all, very good, just not as good as the other two.
August 4, 2019
Fabulous collection. Peppered with heartbreaking allusions to Lucie's coming fate. Yet, she shines with life so bright you're reminded she left the world a better place and had such a positive affect on the Doctor.
September 20, 2019
Great for nostalgia and having the team back together, but these are mostly generic adventures that could’ve been any TARDIS team, save for a couple of Lucie one-liners. Maybe these scripts had been kicking around for a while?
August 17, 2019
Lucie miller has for adventures with the 8th doctor.
September 1, 2019
an interesting quartet of stories
April 10, 2022
The Further Adventures of Lucie Miller:
The Dalek Trap: 8/10
The Revolution Game: 8.5/10
The House on The Edge of Chaos: 9/10
Island of The Fendahl: 10/10
The Dalek Trap: 8/10
The Revolution Game: 8.5/10
The House on The Edge of Chaos: 9/10
Island of The Fendahl: 10/10
October 15, 2019
Lucie Miller's pairing with the 8th Doctor was one of the highlights when I first started listening to Big Finish. It's great to have her back. May prompt a relisten of the earlier episodes.
December 30, 2025
house at the edge of chaos
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