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TARDIS Guide

Review of A Requiem for the Doctor by Ryebean

8 July 2025

This review contains spoilers!

This is a pretty fun, formula story for the Fifth Doctor - it's nice to see him and River having standalone adventures like they usually do rather than the Doctor joining in on a developing arc.

The chemistry between the Doctor and River is so brilliant here - their teamwork is explored so well, and both Davison and Kingston bounce off each other amazingly. I've found at times that River feels a little off in The Diary of River Song, but when paired with the Fifth Doctor she feels a lot more realistic. I love the action hero vibe that's given to the Doctor in this - he's involved, but not too heavily as to prevent shifting the focus away from River. Brooke disappoints me. The most interesting thing she's had so far is her jealousy of River and the Doctor's relationship; that's never been properly explored before with a companion and it makes for a fresh take. However, apart from that, there's not much that distinguishes her from the other companions on the show. Far too generic, and she needs to be more than "bog-standard 21st century jealous girl".

The murder mystery elements are used well - whilst having a decent and intriguing plot, it really helps to delve deeper into the connection between the two protagonists, and culminates in an effective and gripping finale. I love the humanity within Antoinette, she makes for a decent antagonist and is realised brilliantly.

The historical setting really weaves itself in with the plot realistically and successfully, with a great little piece about Mozart, using the audio format to their advantage. It's nice to see River interacting with history properly, as the only historical she's been in was more about the Silence than the Moon Landing.

The side characters weren't particularly special - they were grounded and down-to-earth, but didn't stand out to me as anyone memorable, unfortunately. Mozart was fun, though.

The score was unique and I liked the blend of the DORS soundscape with the historical setting, made for a very interesting soundtrack.

Favourite Line: "Timey wimey?"

This is a good story, but not an amazing one. It felt like they played it a bit too safe for my liking, and there could've been more with it. But I can't fault it, it's enjoyable and fun and makes for a nice stand-alone outing.


Ryebean

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