Night Watch

Night Watch cover
Good Books rating 4.33

Technical:
  • ID: 634
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2025-09-18
  • ISBN: 9781472537249
  • Publisher: A&C Black
  • Published: 2014-02-14
  • Formats: 4
  • Reviews: 3

In 'Night Watch,' Sir Sam Vimes, the steadfast captain of the Ankh-Morpork City Watch, finds himself hurled back in time to his youth. Stranded in a city on the brink of revolution, Vimes must navigate the treacherous politics of the past while ensuring that history unfolds as it should. Complicating matters is a dangerous psychopath from his own time, rising through the ranks of the corrupt Cable Street Unmentionables. Vimes must protect his younger self and uphold justice, all while striving to return to his own era./n/nTerry Pratchett's signature wit and imagination shine in this gripping tale set in one of fantasy's most vividly realized cities. 'Night Watch' blends humor, adventure, and social commentary, showcasing Pratchett's unique ability to weave a compelling narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Reviews
A Green Man Review · 2025-09-18
excellent 4.00

Sam Vimes is portrayed as a true hero, capable of handling impossible situations with ease. The story is praised for its engaging characters and clever narrative.

The reviewer highlights Sam Vimes as a standout character, admiring his heroism and ability to navigate difficult scenarios. They found the book to be both engaging and clever, with a narrative that keeps readers hooked. The reviewer also appreciates the depth of the characters and the way they interact with each other, making the story even more enjoyable.


Quick quotes

    Sam Vimes is an honest-to-goodness hero.

    He's the good guy who always knows the right thing to say or do to make an impossible situation turn out A-okay.

    Its huge gallery of characters contains fine observations of many personality types.

Vacuous Wastrel · 2015-07-27
brilliant 4.50

This novel is considered one of Pratchett's greatest works, with a compelling narrative and deep insights. It is seen as a masterpiece within the Discworld series.

The reviewer believes that Night Watch is one of Pratchett's finest novels, possibly the greatest of all. They appreciate the depth of the story and the insights it offers, making it a standout in the Discworld series. The reviewer suggests that this book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys Pratchett's work, as it showcases his writing skills at their best.


Quick quotes

    I don't think many people would disagree that this is one of Pratchett's greatest novels; perhaps the greatest of all.

    Probably the greatest of all.

    This is a masterful job at a 'what if?' story.

The Guardian · 2012-01-25
great 4.50

The book masterfully blends darkness and humor, highlighting the character of Sam Vimes. It stands out as a favorite due to its unique combination of tone and depth.

This reviewer found Night Watch to be a standout in the Discworld series, particularly for its balance of dark themes and Pratchett's signature humor. They appreciate the focus on Sam Vimes and the way the story navigates complex issues with wit and insight. The reviewer suggests that this book is a must-read for fans of the series, as it offers a compelling narrative that is both thought-provoking and entertaining.


Quick quotes

    Night Watch combines both the darkness and the humor.

    It's about the city guards or more specifically, Sam Vimes.

    Night Watch is my favorite book so far.