Warning: spoilers ahead

The sequel of the popular BBC America series, Orphan Black, has been making waves across the media. Entitled The Next Chapter, it takes place eight years after the end of the television series. The initial series followed the intertwined lives of clones as they struggled to not only find their identities but also stop those behind the cloning program and other atrocities of science.

The new series will see the return of the sisters. Although Project Leda has come to an end, it’s not over. Everything changes when they discover the existence of more clones and are forced out of their anonymous lives in order to stop a disaster.

The series is available in audio format and narrated by none other than the star of the original series, Tatiana Maslany. The book can also be read in text format.

Initial thoughts

I have to admit I was super excited to get my hands on an advanced copy of Orphan Black: The Next Chapter. I was a fan of the series and couldn’t wait to read where the clones’ lives had taken them. The fact that the story would be narrated by Maslany herself only made it that much greater, as she was the heart of the show.

I didn’t know what to expect when I started. I had wondered at first if the story would focus on other characters or perhaps even all-new clones. There may be some new faces, but it seems that the story is going to focus on the sestras we already know and love, which makes it that more exciting. Although, I also can’t wait to see how Maslany takes on new clones we haven’t seen yet.

A more in-depth breakdown

Although part one of the first episode was very short, it was enough to whet my appetite. Getting a peek into where the clones have been since the series ended is rewarding. From the press release, a few of the original clones may be coming back – along with some familiar faces.

There isn’t much to go on story-wise by the end of part one. However, much like the television show, I predict it will tackle some scientific and moral issues (especially since DYAD is involved). Cosima is cautious and has learned not to trust so easily, but her curiosity is obvious once she receives a job offer from Dr. Sturgis. Can she say no, and if she doesn’t, will she be pulled back into a world of danger and deception? More importantly, who is the new clone, Vivi Valdez? What agency does she work for, and how is she going to become involved with the sisters?

The series is currently a few episodes in with a mid-season hiatus expected to come this November.

Orphan Black: The Next Chapter is available exclusively on the Serial Box apps, available on the Apple App Store, Google Play, and directly through their website.