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“Have I Told You Lately?: A Mysterious, Emotional Triumph”

Have I Told You Lately? plunges the audience into a gripping mystery with Benny and the Unbound Doctor trapped in darkness, guided by an enigmatic alien voice. The story, reminiscent of Scherzo yet more accessible, expertly balances tension, character dynamics, and emotional depth.

The premise unfolds ingeniously as the characters, separated yet connected by a static-filled alien Speaker, struggle to navigate their surroundings and escape. Foley’s writing deftly blends the monologues of Benny and the Doctor into a simulated conversation, creating a narrative that feels both disjointed and seamlessly intertwined. The alien voice, central to the plot, evolves as it learns from the protagonists, creating an atmosphere of increasing unease and miscommunication that keeps the tension high.

The interplay between Benny and the Doctor is a highlight, with their distinct personalities and mutual reflections adding layers to the story. Through the Speaker’s distorted mimicry, the characters inadvertently endanger each other, all while exposing their vulnerabilities and perspectives on one another. This dynamic provides both intrigue and emotional resonance.

The setting—aboard the mythical Ark of Whispers—is rich with sci-fi lore, including a tantalising nod to the Time Lord Victorious event via the Rites of Kotturuh. The revelation of the Ark’s impending crash raises the stakes, forcing Benny and the Doctor to collaborate urgently. Steve Foxon’s minimalist sound design amplifies the sense of isolation and danger, with the echoing void, static interference, and lack of music creating a palpably eerie environment.

Performances are stellar across the board. Lisa Bowerman and David Warner effortlessly anchor the narrative, their chemistry bringing authenticity and weight to every scene. Newcomer Misha Butler impresses as the evolving Speaker, transitioning from eerie static to a poignant, fully formed presence with remarkable nuance.

The story’s climax is both satisfying and bittersweet. As Benny and the Doctor succeed in averting disaster, the Speaker reaches full sentience—only to relinquish its newfound identity, recognising its place as a tool rather than a lifeform. This emotional conclusion is handled with care, leaving a lasting impression and elevating the story to one of Big Finish’s most poignant recent offerings.

📝Verdict: 10/10

Tim Foley’s inventive take on isolation, miscommunication, and the evolution of understanding shines in this thrilling opener to Volume 6.

Have I Told You Lately? is a masterfully crafted blend of suspense, character exploration, and emotional depth, bolstered by Foley’s sharp writing and exceptional performances. It’s an unforgettable start to Volume 6 and a standout in The New Adventures of Bernice Summerfield

SOOOO GOOD! i loved how the speaker was a parallel for the doctor in a sense, but it was just phenomenal from start to finish. great start to this series!