Hyspero has been ruled for thousands of years by the Scarlet Empresses, creatures of dangerous powers - powers that a member of the Doctor's own race is keen to possess for herself: the eccentric time traveller and philanderer known only as Iris Wildthyme.
As the real reasons for Iris's obsession become clear, the Doctor and Sam must embark on a perilous journey across deserts, mountains, forests and oceans. Both friends and foes are found among spirits, djinns, alligator men and golden bears - but in a land where the magical is possible, is anything really what it seems?
This is another in the series of original adventures featuring the Eighth Doctor and Sam.
Initially I was bowled over by the sheer difference of this book to its predecessors in the range. Then I realised it was because it was uniquely suited to the its format, a story that
could only be a novel. The sheer scale and imagination can only be visualised in a reader’s mind, never on screen. It has strong literary connections, with a wide range of influences,
a few commented on in the rousing afterword that really explains why Mr Magrs was compelled to write this story. The novel is self contained, humorous and bizarre, making a welcome
break from some earlier books. Although it contains many continuity references these do not infringe on the main story and often form amusing moments. This book features the return
of Iris Wildthyme, the batty old flame of the Doctor’s last seen in the short story collection “Short Trips”. She is an intriguing character, similar to the Doctor in some ways
and completely different in others, her ‘Death Zone’ story is particularly amusing.
The Doctor is also well characterised, the free spirit blustering and retorting sharply to Iris’s comments in equal measure. The Time Lord’s discussion with the librarian of the town of Fortalice
about truth and existence is a highlight of the book.
The world of Hyspero contains many fantastical elements, drawn from many sources that create a bizarre (or should that be Bazaar) setting. Jinn, alligator men, golden bears and vicious birds that
enjoy stories are just a few examples of the weird inhabitants. The whole novel is influenced by works as diverse as “Barbarella”, the works of Lewis Carroll, Sinbad and of course “The Arabian Nights”.
The narrative swaps between the main characters effectively and although slow at times it progresses steadily. The conclusion is rather insubstantial and messy and several explanations are left
unanswered. “The Scarlet Empress” is a good read, a fun and straightforward adventure, perfect for the Eighth Doctor. Its use of Iris Wildthyme and some other imaginative creations raise it above mediocrity.
MY REVIEW.
Doctor Who: The Scarlet Empress by Paul Magrs, BBC Books, ISBN: 0 563 405953.
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