In 1989, Paul Darrow, star of the acclaimed BBC science fiction series Blake’s 7, published his debut novel. Entitled Avon: A Terrible Aspect, it revealed the backstory of Darrow’s character, the self-serving electronics genius Kerr Avon. The novel has long been out of print, but is now set to return as a newly-recorded audiobook. 

Avon: A Terrible Aspect begins before its protagonist’s birth, following the conflict between the rebellious Rogue Avon – Kerr’s father – and his brother, who remains loyal to the brutal Federation. The story then details Avon’s early life, and the events that led up to his time on the Liberator. 

The new audiobook is read by Alistair Lock, who regular Big Finish listeners will recognise from his roles as Orac, Zen and other characters across the Blake’s 7 range.  

Blake's 7 – Avon: A Terrible Aspect has a running time of nearly six hours, and is now available to pre-order as a digital download for £19.99, exclusively here.

What made Kerr Avon the man we all know? Hear his story from a time long before Liberator, as the young Avon grows up into man with a driving purpose: to avenge the death of his father in a world of cross and double-cross. 

 It’s a thrilling tale of family, loyalty, action and revenge during the early days of the Terran Federation that takes Avon through his early life and across the galaxy towards his ultimate destiny. 

Producer Peter Anghelides said: “The question on every fan’s mind when the original TV series ended was: ‘What happens next?’ So it was an unexpected treat when Paul Darrow defied our expectations by writing a prequel! 

“And apart from Terry Nation, himself a good friend of Paul’s, who better than the man who played Avon himself to reveal the character’s history? When the book was first published in 1989, Terry said: ‘Now I know why Avon was the way he was.’ 

 “The original novel has been out of print for well over thirty years. We decided it was time to make it available again, compellingly brought to life in a fresh new reading by the familiar voice of Alistair Lock.” 

Narrator Alistair Lock added: “Having been involved with the full-cast audios since 2012, I was honoured to be asked to record Paul Darrow’s Avon: A Terrible Aspect. 

 “As well as Zen and Orac, over the years I have played or read in for every member of the cast, including Paul as Avon. So reading this novel, I had great fun finding a voice for all the characters in Paul’s story, including of course the man himself: Avon. Well now…” 

Blake's 7 – Avon: A Terrible Aspect is now available to pre-order as a digital download for just £19.99, exclusively here.

Please note: this audiobook contains adult material and may not be suitable for younger listeners. 

All the above prices include the special pre-order discount and are subject to change after general release.