Having gotten this book for Christmas (along with Interesting Times, Small Gods and Lords and Ladies) I must say that it was by far my favourite.

The best characters were there (though only briefly), such as The Librarian, Ridcully (I thought his part was hilarious) and The Patrician. While it wasn't as funny as the others I have read, some of it was great, if a little predictable (the dwarf king asking whether the cube was on in particular).

I loved the part wher Vimes is playing Thud with Helmclever, it was so tense, and very well made. Death's part in it was also very good, as are all Death's appearances. You really got to feel that Death wanted Vimes to succeed.

I like the relationship between Vimes and Vetenari (SP?), sort of like Inspector Frost and his boss, the policeman being cheeky to his superior.

I personally thought this was Pratchett at his best, although I did think that the secret of the painting wasn't all that exciting. I was expecting that it was going to play a more prominent role. Or something.

Still, a very good book. Loved it.