The Master has emerged victorious, stealing humanity’s future and imprisoning his nemesis, the Doctor. With an army of deadly Toclafane, he now rules over Earth. But amidst the despair and destruction, there is still hope. Martha Jones has escaped and is wandering the planet, sharing stories of the Doctor to remind people of his heroism and give them a glimmer of hope.
What’s often overlooked in Martha’s companion narrative is the year she spent alone, battling the Master’s tyranny and trying to maintain her sanity in a world turned upside down. Although we know she succeeded in her mission, we never saw how she did it.
“The Year of Martha Jones” is a unique blend of humour, action, and great storytelling that explores Martha’s journey in detail. She becomes a mythological figure, admired by some as a beacon of hope, while others doubt her intentions and wonder if she has the plan to assassinate the Master.
But at her core, Martha is just a human being struggling to survive in a world gone mad. She’s witnessed unimaginable horrors, and her constant loneliness and paranoia make it hard to trust anyone. Yet she remains steadfast in her hope that the Doctor will return and save humanity.
The audio production is elevated by the outstanding performances of Freema Agyeman and Adjoa Andoh, who play mother and daughter in the story. They have a natural chemistry that makes their scenes together feel authentic and emotionally resonant. The supporting cast also shines, with standout performances from Ewart James Walters and Serin Ibrahim.
“The Year of Martha Jones” is a poignant and reflective story that explores human resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. It’s a testament to Freema Agyeman’s growth as an actress and her ability to bring depth and nuance to a beloved character. It’s a must-listen for any Doctor Who fan, and I hope we get to hear more from Martha in the future.
The Year of Martha Jones is available to buy from Big finish.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
