Hi Julia, I liked the HBO series a lot, but of course,I didn't have a "visual" of the characters already in my head. I did like Mma Makutsi and Mr. J.L.B. Matakoni a lot and think they are pretty close to the book. Unfortunately, I've had to get the books from the library out of order, so it's a little strange.
I did read one of the Philosopher's Club books in the summer and really didn't like it.
EmmaG