"I lost my bearings six corridors, three floors and two hours ago."

When the TARDIS lands in ancient Egypt, the Doctor and Peri become immediately involved in saving a young woman who is being chased by warriors in chariots. Only afterwards though to they discover that the young woman is the next Pharaoh of all Egypt.

As guests of Princess Erimem, the time travellers have unlimited access to the royal palaces, and soon discover plots and intrigue around almost every corner.

There is only one slight problem though. The Doctor knows the names and dates of every Pharaoh Egypt ever had. And the name Erimem isn't among them!

This is a superior play from a first time Big Finish writer. It seems amazing that this story was picked up out of the Big Finish slush pile, as author Iain McLaughlin's script is so assured he could easily have been writing for them for years.

Peter and Nicola are on top of their form in this play, their banter easy and relaxed enough that you can believe they actually enjoy each other's company. These are the adventures that we missed out on when the two actors on got two stories together on television.

Foremost among the guest cast is young actress Caroline Morris as the Pharaoh-in-waiting Erimem. She gives an impressive performance throughout the story, showing maturity well beyond her years. A definite name for the future!

The only slight problem I have with this story is the science fiction ending, which seems bolted on and unnecessary. This tale would have worked better as a purely historical story, but that is a very small point. The pluses far outweigh this one minus.

This is an excellent entry into the Big Finish range. I look forward to hearing more from Mr McLaughlin in the future. Or the past!