Okay, I'm sure we're all rather annoyed that HBO has withheld this beauty for so long just so it coincides with the 4th season and they can maximise their profits… but hey – it'll be worth the wait.
It would take something truly special to surpass the Godric saga during the 2nd season and while the 3rd season perhaps doesn't reach such lofty heights there's still plenty to enjoy. The Vampire King of Mississippi, Russell Edgington, is certainly the season highlight. He's so good that you'll even forgive the scriptwriters for the Jason, Crystal Meth, Were-Panter subplot.
The previous seasons of TB should automatically qualify this as a must-buy but if you really need more convincing, just youtube ‘russell edgington news scene’.