I admit that my original intention with the Short Trips Volume 13 set was solely to listen to Daniel Hardcastle's debut story, Rise of the Eukaryans, as I am a fan of his but never been much for audio dramas personally. When I did find myself with a long commute and not much option, I decided to listen to the rest of the set, and put on Dark Watchers of California.

It was here I learned my mistake.

Dark Watchers of California is a beautiful story which had me in a headlock for its entire runtime. At 35 minutes, it does lie on the shorter side, but its concise nature does in no way detract from its incredible narrative, which had me tearing up in my car on my way to university. It is a beautiful homage to the queer experience of the past, and its ending had me pulling over to the side of the road so I could wipe my eyes. Riley Silverman writes a gorgeous story, and Rebecca Root tells it beautifully.

A+, no notes.

The Twelfth Doctor said trans rights

A truly gorgeous story that is unnerving and affecting in equal measure—in other words, pitch-perfect Doctor Who. Helluva debut from Riley Silverman. I would love to see more from her in the future!

147) Dark Watchers of California (Short Trips [Audio] 13.1)

Really beautiful story. I respect the hell out of any story that can make what looks like a simple conversation into extreme tension. I really hope Riley Silverman writes more for Big Finish because I love her style.

A+. Maybe S.

Perfect perfect way to start a new volume