The Doctor and his companions arrive on a pleasure beach in
the 1970s, hoping for time off after their recent adventures. But they do not get
to relax for long. Violent incidents are at an all time high in the area and people
are going missing - or else changing into something more than human...
The Doctor soon realises a sinister presence lurks in the cold seas off Tayborough Sands
- a presence with sinister designs upon humanity.
Teaming the Fifth Doctor, his companions Tegan and Turlough and the forces of UNIT is an original and very effective idea, just one of the reasons this novel is so good. The basic invasion premise is made far more interesting by the rapid scene switching between the people of Tayborough Sands who are slowly overcome by the infection, highlighting the tragic and horrific effects on families and individuals. As a horror writer, Mark Morris uses both descriptions of physical repugnance and atmospheric tension very well. Using the idea of people losing their identity and human qualities has already been seen in Doctor Who with the likes of the Cybermen and the Wirrrn, but it is such a powerful and frightening subject that it works here.
The Xaranti are an interesting addition to the ranks of ‘Who’ monsters, reflecting elements of Star Trek’s Borg and the aforementioned Wirrrn, but managing to establish themselves as a distinct group of nasties engaged in a conflict with the Zygons, who featured in Morris’ first book “The Bodysnatchers”.
A slow uncovering of the horror of the alien visitors is achieved skilfully with a tension-filled narrative that jumps back and forth at just the right moments. The division into four ‘episodes’ of increasing action and desperation favourably likens the novel to a television story. The characterisation of the regulars, especially Turlough is very accurate, and they are given plenty to do. The men of UNIT are also well represented with Mike Yates, still recovering from the mind-control of BOSS in “The Green Death”, being given the lion’s share of the action. Ironically the Captain is given the assignment as ‘light duties’!
“Deep Blue” is an excellent story combining horrific monsters, plenty of action, accurate characterisation and a prominent human dimension. Although I must mention the poorly conceived cover, which is really the only negative point. I recommend you absorb this book into your collective, I mean collection now!
My Review
Deep Blue, by Mark Morris, BBC Books, ISBN: 0 563 55571 8
