Once you realise that this story is a take on Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, there isn’t much room left for surprise. The narrative progresses in a slow, sequential, and predictable manner, which makes it quite a boring listening experience. This is compounded by the fact that Doctor Who has already done its own take on A Christmas Carol—and did it exceptionally well—long before this story was released. As a result, this feels both unnecessary and tedious, making it a difficult listen overall.

I hesitate to criticise a new writer too harshly, especially someone whose story was recorded through Big Finish’s excellent Paul Spragg Memorial Free Short Trips series. However I think there have been several entries since that  showcase stronger ideas and execution.