Review-Torchwood: Department X.

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.

Review-Torchwood:Ghost Train

With open arms, Torchwood fans welcomed the latest instalment of their beloved series, Ghost Train, written by the talented James Goss. Goss, who has penned several Doctor Who and Torchwood novels, including the 2009 audio play The Golden Age, proves his mettle once again with this gripping tale.

Set between Series 2 and Children of Earth, Ghost Train is a first-person narrative centred around Rhys Williams, brought to life by the incomparable Kai Owen. Owen’s vocal prowess is on full display, with clear enunciation and spot-on characterizations that never distract from the engaging story.

The plot starts with missing fridges, but it quickly becomes clear that something far more sinister is afoot. The strange occurrences, from radios instructing people to kill to SatNavs urging drivers to run over pedestrians, all point to a mysterious train that has recently pulled into a long-abandoned station. As it turns out, the train is coming from a world that has just been destroyed, and whatever is coming from that world is coming to this one.

Clocking in at just under two hours and twenty minutes across two CDs, Ghost Train is a thrilling ride that never feels too long. Kai’s impeccable portrayal of the Torchwood team, especially his spot-on rendition of Gareth David-Lloyd’s dry wit as Ianto, will have fans smiling from ear to ear. The story is expertly paced, balancing moments of levity with nail-biting suspense that keep listeners on the edge of their seats.

Like all other Torchwood Audiobooks, Ghost Train should be considered canon, and the inclusion of a £5 off code for first-time purchasers only sweetens the deal. Simply put, Ghost Train is a must-listen for any Torchwood fan looking for an engaging, immersive audio experience.

Kai Owen Interview

In our first-ever interview for the podcast, Martyn and Gerrod talk to actor Kai Owen.

Kai Owen is a Welsh actor of stage and screen, known to Welsh audiences for his numerous roles on Welsh language television and to worldwide audiences for his portrayal of Rhys Williams in the Doctor Who spin-off, Torchwood.

The podcast is available from all good podcast services, such as but not limited to Amazon Music, PodchaserPlayer FM, Stitcher, and Apple Podcasts.

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Follow the Bad Wilf team on Twitter:

Martyn – @BadWilf

Pete – @BeeblePete

Gerrod –@InGerrodsMind

Also, check out the official Bad Wilf Vlog.

Kai’s website: kaiowen.com
Twitter: @KaiKaiOwen

Llandudno Youth Music Theatre: lymt.co.uk
Children’s charity: www.clicsargent.org.uk
Donate at bit.ly/kaiowencharities