Book 6 is everything I expected and more. I am more than a little irritated with the other reviewers who didn't think the book had substantial plot and devices- maybe you should read it again, and slower this time, because you folks obviously missed a lot. I really enjoyed the expansion on Malfoy's character, and Snape is just so much more deliciously evil. (What does Dumbledore know that we don't??)I felt a bit let down at the end of Book 5 due to the questions about Voldemort and the prophecy, but Book 6 offers much insight into Tom Riddle and the lead-up to his transformation, along with explanations for incidents that took place in all previous books. This is just a great book that keeps the reader enthralled until the very end. Thanks Joanne- I can't wait for the next book. I am going to read HBP again, just as soon as I wrestle it from my 11 year old son.