A spectacular ending for Rowling's phenomenal series! I expected that the ending would not be about who was best at spells in a duel, since Harry could not hope to win. I could not fathom how JKR would solve the conflict, though. In the end, Voldemort defeats himself. Harry knows and uses the knowledge to his advantage.

It is gratifying to know finally that I was right about some essential points and excited to learn there were surprises that could not have been predicted. Rowling has given the feeling of loss that you would expect from a war without a total bloodbath. It is a bit of a roller coaster ride-with changing loyalties and unexpected adventures.

As always there are the entertaining details for which Rowling is loved-although less humor as is fitting. A couple particularly nice touches are the way everyone uses their strengths to do their part (expelliarmus as Harry's choice for the final duel, Prof. Sprout and Neville bringing plants into the fray, the use of the Room of Requirement, Hermione and Ron's help with the horcruxes) and the evidence in the epilogue of Harry's forgiveness and true understanding (as well as Ron's lack of change).