Nev Fountain

1.5 stars
I wonder how much research Nev Fountain actually did for this story (and how much time they would have had to research). While I get removing religious references which would have peppered Columbus' journal entries, the journal entries in this story not only felt quite anemic, but also very self-serving (and it turns out, quite inaccurate too. See Journal of the First Voyage of Columbus pg. 110). I love when historical figures show up in stories. I love it even more when the author takes steps to be somewhat accurate with their depiction of the person in question.

RE: the Bovinoid. Where to start? Bison are first and foremost not buffalo. The information about their demise is pretty accurate, and in the 1800s, the US undertook to decimate herds in one of their many dastardly dealings with the tribes that relied on the herds for food, clothing, etc., to force them off their traditional lands and onto reservations. (I am happy to report that, slowly, herds of bison are making a comeback and are now the National Animal of the USA.) It always sets my teeth on edge when people equate bison with buffalo. North America doesn't have native buffalo and it doesn't take much to look this fact up. Grrrrrrr

The narration left a lot to be desired. This review by Rick covers the problems quite thoroughly.

On the whole this whole series is really disappointing for a celebration of 50 years of Doctor Who. I've got 7-11 to go still though, so I will continue.… (mere)