Title: Doctor Who: Shada
Author: Gareth Roberts
First published July 1, 2012
416 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9781849903271 (ISBN10: 1849903271)
Rating: 4.23
Overview
Get ready for a thrilling adventure with Doctor Who: Shada by Gareth Roberts, based on the original television series script by Douglas Adams. Professor Chronotis, a retired Time Lord, needs the help of the Doctor, Romana, and K-9 to protect a dangerous artifact, the Worshipful and Ancient Law of Gallifrey, from falling into the wrong hands.
The sinister Skagra is after the book and its secrets, and he’ll stop at nothing to get it, including taking control of the Doctor’s mind. Join the Doctor and his companions in a race against time to uncover the truth behind Shada and save the universe from certain doom.
Narrated by Lalla Ward, this legendary “lost” Doctor Who story is finally complete and ready for you to enjoy.
About the Author
Gareth Roberts is a skilled TV scriptwriter who has lent his talents to a variety of popular soap operas, including Brookeside, Springhill, and Emmerdale. He has also worked on the supernatural crime series Randall & Hopkirk (Deceased), as well as contributed to the revival of the beloved science fiction show Doctor Who.
In addition to his work on the Doctor Who television series, Roberts has written an interactive adventure called Attack of the Graske, as well as several Big Finish audio productions and numerous novels. He has also contributed to the popular publication Doctor Who Magazine.
Roberts is an accomplished writer with an impressive portfolio of work.
Editoral Review
Doctor Who: Shada by Gareth Roberts is a science-fiction novel that takes readers on an exciting adventure through time and space. Published on July 1, 2012, the book is based on the BBC television series Doctor Who, which follows the time-traveling adventures of the Doctor, a mysterious alien from the planet Gallifrey.
In Shada, the Doctor is accompanied by his trusty companion, Romana, as they travel to Cambridge University in search of a dangerous artifact known as the Time Key. Along the way, they encounter a cast of intriguing characters, including a retired Time Lord and a sinister alien race known as the Krargs.
As they navigate the perils of time travel, the Doctor and Romana must use all their wit and cunning to stop the Krargs from obtaining the Time Key and unleashing chaos on the universe. Roberts masterfully blends elements of science-fiction, action, and mystery to create a thrilling and engaging read.
The characters are expertly crafted, with the Doctor and Romana in particular standing out as dynamic and memorable protagonists. The setting of Cambridge University adds an air of sophistication and intellectualism to the story, and it is clear that Roberts has a deep appreciation for the history and culture of the institution.
Although Shada is deceptively complex, the writing is accessible and engaging, making it an excellent introductory novel for those new to the Doctor Who franchise. Roberts expertly weaves together multiple plot lines, delivering a story that is full of surprises and twists.
His attention to detail and world-building is impressive, creating a universe that is both imaginative and believable. One of the strengths of Shada is the way in which it seamlessly blends sci-fi elements with important themes and social commentary.
The novel explores issues such as class inequality, the fear of the unknown, and the power of knowledge in a way that is both relevant and thought-provoking. This makes Shada a valuable contribution not only to the Doctor Who franchise but to the genre of science-fiction as a whole.
The only flaw in Shada is that its pacing can be a bit slow at times, which may make it difficult for readers who prefer a more action-packed story. However, this is a minor issue and does not detract from the overall quality of the novel.
Overall, Doctor Who: Shada by Gareth Roberts is a must-read for any fan of the Doctor Who franchise, as well as for fans of science-fiction and action-adventure novels. Its accessible writing, skilled character development, and thought-provoking themes make for a rich and engaging read.
It receives a score of 4 out of 5 stars.
