just finished reading...

The war against He Who Must Not Be Named is not going well for the "Muggle" world or the wizarding world. This book begins a bit differently than the rest--although once again we find Harry at the Dursley's home during summer vacation; first there is a taste of the political upheaval that is the war with the Dark Lord.

Of all the books, this is the darkest: good does not always triumph over evil, the "bad guys" seem to be gaining power, a beloved character dies, and life at Hogwarts might come to an end.

Most of this story is spent at Hogwarts--with the relationships between Harry and Dumbledore strengthened by their working together to uncover the history of Voldemort, with Harry discovering feelings for Ginny, and Ron and Hermione bickering like an old married couple. I liked trying to figure out who the Half-Blood Prince was.

When I put this book down and wiped my tears (and yes, I did shed a few), I couldn't wait to pick up book 7 to see how it all ends.