eBook, 387 pages
Published May 26, 2009 by Transworld Digital.
3.5 stars.
I really enjoyed the first two books in the death series, but didn't enjoy this one nearly as much, mostly due to the change of cast.
The book is about music. About its perception, nature and evolution. Death here is secondary.
Tremendous amount of wit and fun, but also absolutely twisting, emotional and powerful scene that loops back to the beginnings, showing that Pratchett was writing with his heads up, to quote Don Cherry.
I really like parts of this one, and really want to run away from others.
Strong, but not 5 stars. Susan is a fun addition to the Death line up, although I would have liked a more expanded Death role - the "Death goes on a vacation" plot still works, but works best when Death can shine (see Reaper Man). The music plot was a little too similar to Moving Pictures, which I thought was one of the weaker books so far.
Well I never rated Pratchett after reading the Last continent. While this one has it's foibles, the great characterisation and snappy writing kept me happy. I'll try some more.
