The Cold Equations

Companion Chronicles #5.12

Released: 2 June 2011

Listened: 2/23/20

The second part of Oliver’s trilogy again dials down the sci-fi elements, in favor of the human element, and in this case, actual science. When Steven and Oliver end up trapped on a bit of space junk that’s losing air rapidly, Steven gets to show off his pilot’s training, in the form of orbital equations, to help get them out of it. And he narrates every bit of it while he does it, which certainly demonstrates that writer Simon Guerrier did his homework, but also smacks of the writer showing you his homework, which can break the suspension of disbelief. Of course, since they’re going to die, Oliver confesses his “crime” to Steven: he’s gay. In fairness, Steven had been concerned about having a companion who was hiding something, possibly something serious. Once he knows, Steven naturally laughs it off, which isn’t the best reaction, but to be fair, the story doesn’t immediately turn to “well, it’s the future, so you’re fine now.” Oliver’s still left behind everything he knows, and can’t go back, so everything isn’t really OK just because he’s in the future. It’s a strong story, maybe a bit slight given the running time, but a good listen.