Review: Deadly Download

A computer virus! Destroying everything?

It is bizzare to begin with, because you don't normally get stories centred around computer "viruses" running amok. Jason Arnopp, however, masterfully weaves in the seemingly undisturbed and suburban Bannerman Road with horror and danger so effortlessly... it's a shame that he hasn't written more stuff for the show!

Starting off slowly, the story progresses but perhaps too slowly. Most of the action at the beginning is set in the Attic which is quite static. However, when the pace quickens, it begins to get more interesting.

Elisabeth's voice is lovely and warm as always, especially at points throughout the story where there is danger and excitement present, because she starts speaking really-really-fast and your ears somehow manage to keep up whilst taking in everything. However, her attempt at doing Clyde will never be completely perfect. Everyone has faults, I suppose.

In terms of characterisation, the main four are mostly faithful to their televisual counterparts. Unfortunately, we don't get as much interaction between Rani, Clyde or Luke as in previous audiobooks, because it seems to be a very Mr Smith heavy story. That's not to say that it's bad; it's certainly refreshing to hear a supporting 'character' have a major role for once.

Deadly Download is one of the stronger Sarah Jane Adventures audiobooks in the series, but it is not the best. It has a lot of clever, dramatic moments and on the whole, it's definitely a worthy addition to the collection.

Planet Gallifrey rates

Deadly Download by Jason Arnopp

8/10