📝8/10

Thworping through time and space, one adventure at a time! 

"Archipelago: Lost in Time and Tide"

Tim Foley’s Archipelago serves as a reflective and evocative conclusion to the Star-Crossed set, leaning heavily into atmosphere and character-driven storytelling. Told primarily from River Song’s perspective, it feels akin to an instalment of her own Diary of River Song series. Foley weaves a stormy, otherworldly setting that mirrors the turbulent emotions and evolving dynamics between River and the Ninth Doctor, crafting a poignant and layered narrative.

The premise—Nine and River navigating a treacherous alien voyage in search of missing individuals—takes a backseat to the interplay between its characters. Christopher Eccleston delivers a brooding, moody Doctor, his tension with River providing much of the drama. Alex Kingston’s performance brings River’s sharp wit and emotional complexity to the forefront, creating an intriguing clash of perspectives as they navigate their mission.

Foley’s narrative thrives on mood and introspection rather than action, with the alien threat emerging gradually to underscore the story’s themes of loss and consequence. The haunting, temporal disturbances subtly affect the crew, particularly the ship’s Captain, adding an eerie undertone to the proceedings. The atmospheric sound design and performances immerse the listener in this storm-lashed world, where every gust of wind and flash of lightning carries emotional weight.

The heart of the story lies in its exploration of the Doctor and River’s evolving relationship. The climactic moment when Nine breaks their agreed-upon rule by reading River’s diary is both shocking and deeply moving, unearthing vulnerabilities in both characters. Their final scenes, stripped of distractions, are a masterclass in emotional storytelling, revealing layers of trust, betrayal, and affection.

Foley’s conclusion is bittersweet, elegantly tying up the loose ends of their shared adventures while maintaining the integrity of the timelines. The mechanism by which both Nine and River forget their time together is beautifully rendered, serving as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices they make to protect the universe and each other.

Final Thoughts:

Archipelago may lack the high-octane action of earlier entries in the set, but its focus on atmosphere, character, and emotional depth makes it a standout. As the waves recede, the memory of this story lingers—a fitting farewell to an unforgettable partnership.