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“SLAVER’S SONG: A MISSED OPPORTUNITY IN A HISTORICAL BACKDROP”
Slaver’s Song takes the Ninth Doctor, Rose, Jack, and new companion Tara to 17th-century Brazil, where they uncover more of Jack’s erased past as a Time Agent. Jack’s undercover mission as a Jesuit priest adds an intriguing layer to his history, and his discovery of an old, unfinished assignment—where he failed to assassinate a target—adds some weight to his character arc. It’s a solid attempt to explore his past, even if the surrounding story doesn’t quite live up to its potential.
ALIEN SLAVERY ANALOGY – A FAMILIAR TROPE
The story attempts to tackle the subject of slavery, with the Doctor making his opposition to the practice clear. However, the alien subplot—featuring a member of a slave race hiding on Earth with their former captor-turned-lover—feels somewhat generic. It’s a well-worn analogy that doesn’t bring much new to the table, though it does lead to some explosive encounters in the second half.
A WASTED SETTING
17th-century Brazil is an underused setting in Doctor Who, but here, it’s disappointingly underdeveloped. The story could have taken place in almost any time or place, as the historical and cultural elements don’t add much depth. The Portuguese slavers are present as the antagonistic human force, but they’re little more than obstacles in the plot rather than fleshed-out characters or a meaningful exploration of the era.
TENSION BETWEEN COMPANIONS
Rose’s jealousy over Tara’s growing importance is a recurring theme, causing her to distance herself from the Doctor and Tara throughout the story. Meanwhile, the Doctor and Tara’s dynamic is tested when the Doctor lashes out at her for acting like a know-it-all despite this being her first real TARDIS adventure. This conflict adds some interesting character moments, but it also makes Tara’s introduction feel somewhat bumpy.
A TEASING CLIFFHANGER
While Slaver’s Song doesn’t fully capitalise on its setting or themes, it does end on a strong note, with a tantalising cliffhanger that leaves the reader eager for the next instalment. Jack’s rediscovery of his old base and the moral reckoning with his past actions add some intrigue, making this more of a stepping stone story than a standout adventure.
📝VERDICT: 6/10
A decent adventure that hints at deeper themes but never fully explores them, Slaver’s Song is ultimately a serviceable story with strong character moments for Jack and some tension among the TARDIS crew. However, its historical setting feels underused, and its alien slavery subplot is too familiar to stand out. It’s an okay read that delivers just enough intrigue to keep you hooked for the next issue.
