James Goss has once again proven himself to be a master of audio storytelling with his work on Department X. The Torchwood team investigates the mysterious disappearances of customers in the old Cardiff department store, GR Owen. Goss’ writing skillfully blends elements of mystery and suspense, keeping listeners engaged from start to finish. The style of this audio differs from its predecessor, Ghost Train, as it moves away from first-person narrative and towards a more traditional audiobook format. Despite this change, Goss’ writing still manages to capture the essence of all the Torchwood characters, old and new.
Paired with Kai Owen’s exceptional vocal performance, the result is a truly immersive listening experience. Owen effortlessly embodies the distinct personalities of each character, leaving listeners feeling as though they are right in the middle of the action. The musical score and sound effects add to the overall ambience, creating a richly textured world that is a joy to explore.
Overall, Department X is a welcome return to the Torchwood of old, striking a perfect balance between the darker tones of Children of Earth and the more lighthearted feel of series 1. With Goss at the helm, fans can rest assured that Torchwood is in good hands, and we can only hope that more audio adventures will be forthcoming.
This audiobook is a must-listen for fans of the Torchwood series and is available for purchase in both CD and digital download formats for a reasonable price.