Was going for 3,5 stars, but am currently leaning towards 4+.

The story is a satire on sexism, religious fundamentalism, nationalism and war. To me personally, it felt as one of Pratchett's darker stories: a backwards country so depleted of men and boys and girls that are being religiously repressed and for varying reasons take their chances in the army. Add to it the futility of being in a constant war about Who Knows What. But we are winning, I assure you.

The book has an all-new cast of characters (apart from a few cameos) with interesting backstories. I particularly liked Jackrum, who fulfilled the role as wizened old soldier and father figure to the lads. In a way, he felt a bit as a counterpart to Vimes. Polly / Oliver was well written and developed as well.

The only thing that I did not particularly like, was the silly Big Reveal. It was a bit too on the nose and a bit too unbelievable. If you read the book, you'll know what I mean.