This is the Doctor Who story supposed to plug the gap explaining how Mike
Yates of UNIT (United Nations Intelligence Taskforce) changed from the
devoted hero to the man who turned the gun on the Doctor.
This story features the fourth Doctor, Tegan and Turlough arriving in a
seaside village only to be caught up with UNIT in a struggle against the
evil Xantari.
Review :
I sat down with this book hoping to have a good Doctor Who story, but was
rather disappointed to find that it is more reminiscent for me to a horror
movie than Dr Who, especially with the crowds of people changing into
Xantari and liberal helpings of gory ends at the hands of the
aforementioned. The name Xantari in itself is ominous enough - what's that
line in another story about it being traditional among humans to put lots
of Xs, Zs and other exotic letters in aliens names in movies?
Also, only more dedicated Doctor Who fans will really make the most of Mike
Yates prescence in this story, although the fourth Doctor having to
introduce himself is rather fun, but the way of making sure that the
Brigadier and company don't remember any of it seems a little heavy handed.
It might have worked if it was more of an intelligent story or more an
adventure, but was too dependant on horror and references to past Doctor
Who.
Rating :
One and a Half Stars (Out of Five)
Fair enough if you're into tacky movie horror, but it doesn't quite suit Doctor Who.
Links :
BBC - Doctor Who site
The "official" Doctor Who site run by the BBC, who make and publish Dr Who
books, videos etc. Has guides to selected episodes, a message board, guide
to the different Doctors, quizzes and articles.
