Monstrous Regiment: Discworld, Book 28

If you have not read any Terry Pratchett books this is a good introduction to Discworld. You, like Polly, the protagonist, climb out of the window of the Duchess Inn, Bogravia, when the recruiting sergeant's cart comes to town to join the army to look for her brother. You too meet the recruits as the cart travels the country and are introduced, like Polly, to trolls, werewolves, igors witches and the usual cast of thousands that people Discworld.

Polly has worked in the pub all her life so is a good observer with a very hands-on practical streak in her and a good heart. She uncovers and resolves the problems of her fellow recruits and others and finally her own.

Stephen Briggs is an ideal narrator for the novel whose voice gives the characters their personal identity. The story leaves a smile on your face and a warm glow of pleasure. It is small wonder that Terry Pratchett has such a big following.

The title is taken from something published by John Knox in 1558 against Mary Tudor aka Bloody Mary 'The First blast of the trumpet against the monstrous regiment of women' which, you will realise, says it all.

This book has new characters to cheer along while bringing back some of our favourite characters. Lots of references to laugh at and a couple twists that we didn't see coming. Pratchett is a genius and has done it again.

I really loved the books, and will always read them before listening but the audio books are really worth their listen. I Have a monthly account where i pay a little and get a credit, I look forward to being able to download a new book and listen on long car journeys, and this did not disappoint.



I really like the characterisation that Stephen Briggs brings to the characters, and they make great listening. As with the other Terry Pratchett books that are available I would recommend these, and have found that listening to them in order of release was less important to me than making sure that I listened to one Narrators interpretation at a time...

I've heard it said that music lightens the heart. Sir P's talent in changing our world with such small twists reduces gravity for me.



I dare you not to smile.



Sir Samuel's and Nobbie's favourite 'forks' becoming 'hit 'im in the socks' :-) one of the many chuckle enticing phrases

One of my favourite books, I was a little apprehensive when I decided to download this audiobook but I'm glad I did. Stephen Briggs once again reads the Discworld books with flair, and leaving me with completely different ideas of the main characters than I started with. It doesn't affect how I read the book myself which I think is a wonderful talent.

The story itself is as brilliant as ever, and includes what you could call a welcome cameo from Vimes. Though our armies are equal now, you can still see the relevance in today's politics. Plus the news telling "stories" really makes you think ;-)

Overall a great book to both read and listen too, I highly recommend.

I think this is my favourite Discworld book so far. I just loved it. I have loved every single Discworld book I have read or listened too. This is a stand alone book although several old characters turn up. Polly cuts her hair and dresses like a boy and joins the army to find her brother. Don’t want to give anything away, as this was just a joy to listen to. Absolutely wonderful.

The beginning and middle are good, the ending gets rather silly. True Pratchett story though, enjoyable and entertaining.

This is so wonderful it takes your breath away. Funny, witty and poignant, and simply fabulously read by Stephen Briggs who has more accents than Heinz has varieties.

Terry Pratchets witty works keep me smiling on my regular 5 hr motorway drives - the unabridged version is much more enjoyable than any of the shortened versins we have listened to in the past, but that is maybe because I love the books-Interesting feature mu son noticed was that 'trousers' mysteriously change to 'Pants' in download two... maybe they swum across the Atlantic?

Okay, so the main character of this book is a bit of a Mary Sue. However, that doesn't detract overmuch from an arresting and amusing story set in a part of the Discworld that has not previously been covered. Stephen Briggs brings the varied cast of characters to life, especially Sergeant Jackrum. Highly recommended.