So, an interesting one, this. It’s very keen on fleshing out the WWI Haiti setting, and it has some pacing problems, but it’s much more streamlined and typical DW than most VNAs up to this point, and I quite liked its James Bond vibes.
8/10
White Darkness may not be the most tightly plotted VNA, but it’s certainly one of the most evocative. The historical setting is beautifully drawn, and the mix of voodoo mysticism, wartime espionage, and zombie horror makes for a unique Doctor Who adventure. The Doctor is calm and clever, Ace is back in badass mode, and Benny shines with her usual resourcefulness. Though sometimes bogged down in dense prose and convoluted politics, this one’s got enough mood, mystery and mayhem to satisfy—and a climax that positively explodes with pulpy style. Just don’t expect a zombie masterpiece; they’re more flavour than focus.
You’re welcome to read my full review below (spoilers hidden):
If there is anything that ‘White Darkness’ is doing right, it’s embracing its newer Vibes thanks to the drastic Change in Genres. Gone is the World of Sci-Fi in favor of a Thriller with a historical Backdrop. Thankfully, unlike other Stories, McIntee knows his Stuff and fleshes out the whole setting wonderfully instead of it having simply existing like a few other Stories. Its Character-beats are great as well. I think McIntee uses our TARDIS Crew very well, and overall he does a pretty great Job with all of his Characters.
If there are any Weak Points in these Books, it might be the Plot and the Pace itself. While the former has a lot to offer to great Effects, it could have been plotted a tiny bit better. Similarly, I do think there are some Moments which could have gone quicker or slower.
While both of these sound like a huge Drawback, I think at the End of the great Scheme, they don’t matter as much as you would think at first.