Lords and Ladies  Terry Pratchett, Author Terry Pratchett,
Author HarperPrism $12 (314p) ISBN 978-0-06-109216-9 Reviewed
on: 01/03/2000 Release date: 01/01/2000 Pratchett (Small Gods)
has won an ardent following with his tales of Discworld and his
particular brand of comedic fantasy. This latest installment,
however, is unlikely to widen his readership. It's circle time
on the Discworld; portentous round depressions are showing up
everywhere, even in bowls of porridge. Worlds are weaving closer
to one another, with unpredictable results. Only the three wacky
witches, formidable Granny Weatherwax, crusty Nanny Ogg and
scatterbrained Magrat Garlick, can ensure that the worst does
not happen: the return of the elves. Trouble is, almost everyone
else in the kingdom of Lancre is eager to welcome the ``lords
and ladies'' back. They've forgotten that elves are nasty
creatures who live only to torture their prey--humans
especially. It's a tempting premise, but underdeveloped by
Pratchett, who relies too heavily on hi