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"Whispers of Terror: A Sonic Thriller for the Sixth Doctor"

Justin Richards crafts an engaging audio drama with Whispers of Terror, a story perfectly suited to the audio medium. Set in the Museum of Aural Antiquities, the adventure takes full advantage of its format, weaving the sound design into the heart of the narrative. With headphones, the setting and sound-based threat feel vividly immersive, drawing the listener into its eerie world.

The plot is tightly paced, establishing the sound-focused danger early on and building a compelling mystery filled with clever twists and strong cliffhangers. The threat, while simple, is highly effective, especially in an audio context. The sound design and music elevate the tension, making key moments feel grand and suspenseful.

Colin Baker is in fine form as the Sixth Doctor, though his portrayal here leans towards the harsher tone of his TV days, which may feel jarring compared to his later, softer Big Finish characterisation. Nicola Bryant’s Peri benefits from more measured writing, coming across as less abrasive than in some of her television stories, even if her dynamic with the Doctor remains prickly.

The guest cast is excellent. Doctor Who veteran Peter Miles (known for The Silurians and Genesis of the Daleks) delivers a strong performance as Gantman, a character whose gravitas matches the story’s weight. Lisa Bowerman (better known as Bernice Summerfield) surprises as the villain, offering a chilling performance that adds depth to the story.

While the build-up is consistently intriguing, the climax feels slightly underwhelming compared to the tension established earlier. Additionally, the intricate plot requires focus to fully grasp, which could challenge more casual listeners.

📝Verdict: 8/10

Despite minor flaws, Whispers of Terror is a clever and atmospheric audio drama, showcasing how Big Finish quickly mastered storytelling tailored for the format. It’s a standout early entry in the Sixth Doctor’s expanded adventures.