i love lisa mcmullin but this was not my cup of tea. the setting/title of the story made me think we'd be in for a historical but alas it's literally barely at the forefront of the story. the doctor chases around a schoolgirl for what feels like an eternity and there's plot threads set up that go nowhere like the alien being from the planet the doctor wanted to go to? like the coincidence was just that? and the beginning of the story had some awfully jarring flashforward scenes with the girl and her teacher that really took me out of it.

Definitely the weakest story with Audacity so far. While there is a lot to be said for this being an important story, it all feels a bit disjointed. The title, 'Women's Day Off' plays very little into the overall story, with it mainly focussing on a young girl and her teacher who happens to be a woman so she's on strike. Then there's the random part with the alien who's trying to get home, which honestly felt like it could have been cut. I feel this episode would have felt better if it had instead been a prequel of sorts to the Sarah Jane Adventures story Mark of the Beserker, as the item that causes the young girl to gain powers is remarkably similar to the pendant from that episode in its abilities. I did appreciate Audacity and Charley showing their solidarity with the women, although Audacity feels a little half-baked in this episode, as you'd think she'd have more to do in an episode all about women being treated equally.

Day On

Prerequisites: None needed.

Women's Day Off is pretty half-baked. I fully agree with some other reviewers here in that the two separate plot lines feel entirely disconnected and unrelated to each other in the slightest. There's definitely an interesting historical story to be written following the women's march in Iceland, but this story doesn't even attempt that. Instead, despite being the literal title, the titular "Day Off" is barely set dressing. This is doubly disappointing considering that this is a rare Tardis team with just the Doctor and two women; there's definitely character work to be done here! McMullen chooses to focus instead on some random alien's spaceship troubles, which seemingly only exists to give the companions something to do in the plot. Plus, it's frankly silly that this is only 45 minutes. This could've been a great story if one story thread was focused on, and it had a full hour to develop its themes. Instead, this is a profoundly mediocre audio.

This was solid and fun with good performances, but I feel like the women's march and the sci-fi stuff never really came together with each other and felt quite disparate.

The story flows awkwardly but is still a fine listen with the three leads on top form. The Doctor showing up during a woman's strike is a fun idea to get him a little more out of his comfort zone. Ended up with an extra half star from me because of the emotional ending, but ultimately not a necessary listen.

nothing inherently wrong with this audio, just a little lack luster ; the 'plot' was boring and had no affect on the tardis team

📝9/10

Thworping through time and space, one adventure at a time! 

LIGHTS, LIBERATION, AND LONELINESS

Women’s Day Off transports the Eighth Doctor, Charley, and Audacity (or “Dassie,” as Charley affectionately calls her) to Iceland in 1975. Their destination: to witness the northern lights and a groundbreaking event in women’s history—the Women’s Strike for Equality.

This socially conscious and politically charged tale is rooted in the real-life Icelandic strike, where women demanded equal pay and rights. It’s a momentous event that still resonates, making it an inspired and timely backdrop. The story uses this historical context effectively, as Charley and Audacity are given strong, proactive roles, highlighting their determination and wit. Together, they charm and cajole the Doctor, even enlisting the TARDIS into their cause—a delightful dynamic brilliantly conveyed by India Fisher and Jaye Griffiths.

The villains are the everyday figures—husbands, fathers, and employers—opposed to progress and dismissive of the strike. But an alien element adds a fascinating twist. Molly Harris is compelling as Kayla, a schoolgirl with destructive powers, whose fear and isolation make her both a threat and a victim. Her emotional journey, culminating in a moving scene of acceptance and control, is one of the story's highlights.

Jefred, the chameleonic alien stranded on Earth, feels somewhat underdeveloped and unnecessary beyond causing Kayla’s initial turmoil. However, the story remains engaging, thanks to its balance of historical significance and sci-fi intrigue.

The setting—a wintry, striking Iceland—is vividly realised, and the chemistry between Charley, Audacity, and the Doctor infuses the narrative with warmth and humour. This episode is a thoughtful, heartfelt exploration of social progress, personal growth, and the beauty of collective action.

Went into this story not really excited however this story blew me away it was just fun pure fun I love it