The New Adventures series of Doctor Who novels were an experiment by Virgin Books to continue the Doctor’s travels in print, following the TV show’s cancellation in 1989.

Between 1992 and 1997, 61 New Adventures were published, pitting the Seventh Doctor - alongside Ace and new companion Bernice Summerfield - against such scary monsters as the Cybermen, the Sontarans and the Chelonians - giant tortoises with a penchant for flower arranging.

In 1996, BBC Books decided that as part of its merchandising plans to accompany the anticipated rebirth of Doctor Who following the TV Movie, Virgin’s current publishing licence - coincidentally due to expire - would not be renewed.

With the publication of The Eight Doctors in June 1997, a new era for the Doctor in print had begun, taking with it much of the writing talent that had developed over the previous five years.

Meanwhile, copies of the now out-of-print New Adventures became sought after collectibles. Some could command as much as fifty times their cover price on online auction sites such as eBay.

We're publishing The Well-Mannered War as a follow-up to the highly acclaimed The Dying Days and Human Nature, at a chapter a week, with a brand new commentary by author Gareth Roberts, and featuring all-new illustrations by Daryl Joyce.

"The Well-Mannered War got rather lost at the end of the Virgin license, and I gather it's a gap in people's Dr Who collection," says Gareth. "Hopefully it's also a fun read, with plenty of twists, turns, and dollops of shattering insight into the human condition."

"Gareth's Missing Adventure novels are fan favourites and it's clear to see why," adds Daryl. "The characters and the humour in The Well-Mannered War are spot on.

"You can see Tom Baker's affronted double takes and feel the influence of Douglas Adams in the dialogue - this is Doctor Who 1979 style, and it's a hugely enjoyable read.

"The retro illustrations couldn't be more different from the last ebook, but what better way to immerse yourself in period nostalgia than to have a pastiche of the Target novelisations, complete with those essential dramatic quotes?"

Before you all ask, we will be presenting all of Daryl's illustrations as a gallery of desktop wallpapers once the whole book is online.

We have also set up a E-books Message Board which will allow you to gossip about the story as it evolves. Gareth and Daryl will probably be popping in from time to time, so be sure to check it out.

But that's enough explanation. It's now time to discover some dark doings in the Metra system...