The Yearn [AUDIO/2023.2.21]

★★★☆☆

  In any given run of Dr. Who adventures -- say, a season or a series or a vague collection of books, novels and comics -- there's always one action-oriented story that may draw the short straw on interesting ideas but make up for that weakness in giving our main characters plenty of emotional depth. That is the case for The Yearn, the most action-heavy of the Eleventh Doctor/Valarie series yet, where both of our regulars face physical and mental dangers that test their will. Is it fun? Most definitely -- there's a lot to love about this audio drama, and the villainous Yearn and their central concept (that they're a gestalt entity representing the loneliness of the inhabitants of the story) are perhaps the least remarkable thing about it. If you've just read the last sentence and are now wondering why I'd even think this is bland in any way, you've got the point. This is just such a competently made audio drama, with all cylinders firing at high levels.

  The most impressive (and notable) aspect of The Yearn is, of course, that it's giving Valarie such a good story. Jacob Dudman's utterly dependable as the Doctor, of course, but Safiyya Ingar gets to shine as Valarie as it's the character's moment -- the story was practically written for her. It's funny, because the first ten or twenty minutes of The Yearn has Valarie acting in a way I cringe at -- giving such a 2016-style of snarky and "comedic" energy. It's only when she starts her budding romance with Roanna that she truly shines, and Ingar gets to demonstrate how amazing they are as an actor. All of Time and Space already gave the companion some wonderful moments, and having listened to the next adventure as well, I can confirm that this boxset is a fantastic showcase of Valarie Lockwood. This companion is going places, I tell you. I had a great time with The Yearn, and if you like a relatively solid premise carried by great performances and an emphasis on emotional moments, you won't regret picking this up.