Story: The TARDIS lands on what seems to be Earth. But burned-up medieval villages, a crashed and disintegrating spacecraft from the 30th Century, and an attack by a fire-breathing dragon convince the time travellers otherwise. On top of all this, the TARDIS has engaged its defensive systems, and will not allow anyone back inside, stranding our heroes on this strange world.
During the attack by the dragon, a group of knights on horseback arrive and vanquish the horrid beast. All return to the local castle to meet the King and Queen of this strange land of Elbyon, who are preparing for the imminent wedding of their daughter, the Princess. But, the local Evil Wizard, Morton Dhal, has other ideas. He wants the King to hand over Merlins’ Artifacts, which will allow him supreme wizard power, to be used for, undoubtedly, evil purposes. To precipitate the King’s decision, Dhal kidnaps the Princess, along with Susan, and imprisons them in his dark tower.
And so the Doctor and an intrepid party of adventurers embark on a quest to the Shadow Islands, to retrieve an artifact of immense power: Merlin’s Helm! This item will allow the wearer to put an end to the evil Wizard’s plans, and restore order to the world.
Review: I was on holiday in America at a time when horrible events unfolded in New York and Washington. It was hard to take my eyes away from the TV. Luckily, when I did look away, I had a good book to take my mind off of what can only be described as cowardice and evil.
This was a remarkable book, full of wonderful ideas, fanciful situations, and perfectly written characters. It was as if old Bill Hartnell were alive again, stubbornly taking on any challenge with a fixed stare, and a firm grip on his lapels. This is what a Missing Adventure should be like. Not full of sex, drugs, and swearing – but fitting in to the era from which it would have come. In a world full of uncertainty, we should be able to count on something, or somebody, to take us away from troubles, and from danger. To hopefully make us feel that not all injustices are left unpunished. 9 out of 10.
Year: 1995
Author: Christopher Bulis
Publisher: Virgin