Criss-Cross

Main Range #204

Released: 15 September 2015

Listened: 8/27/20

It’s time for a new companion, in this case Leading WREN Constance Clarke. Before the story starts, the TARDIS is immobilized on Earth during World War II, and the Doctor has had to insinuate himself at Bletchley Park to try to figure out what the problem is. It turns out to be one of those aliens who are so different their very presence is harmful to humans, and it just wants to go home, or so it appears. The alien bits take kind of a back seat to the historical setting. Matt Fitton has done his research on this one, and is unstinting in his praise of Bletchley and the folks who work there, and their instrumental role in ending the war. Details of the systems and processes abound, but it’s a little tricky to appreciate that and keep track of the plot at the same time. Constance is also part of that praise, as she’s capable, clever, and generally unflappable, which certainly makes her companion material, but she doesn’t get an offer, likely because she has her duties, and is married. However, her husband, part of British Intelligence, whereabouts unknown, is what drives Constance to talk the Doctor into taking her along. That plot won’t resolve for quite a while. A new companion is always a breath of fresh air, and Constance more than most.