First: I have never seen the movie adaption, save for a few brief clips of Anthony Hopkins as Hannibal--but other than that, the book was all new to me from plot to characters.

Second: I have no issues with the writing in this book at all. Solid 4.5 on that scale. Detailed, eloquent, and reads well and easy. Harris has an amazing grasp of setting and picking just the right details for the mood and what's going on.

But oh man, did I have a hard time getting through this book. You ever have that moment where you're reading, and things are happening--but it feels like nothing is happening? That sort of describes my overall experience with this thing. They're running around, gathering clues, interviewing Lector, finding bodies, doing research--but I was still bored out of my mind for a good 60% of the book. I'm fairly certain the only reason I kept pressing forward was a glimpse here or there of something really amazing--a twist, a character development, Jack Crawford being awesome, etc--that made the book worth reading.

I'm probably being a little harsh with the book, but I did go in and out throughout all 300+ pages of it. I'm also now convinced the only reason Lector has a fanbase is due to Anthony Hopkins--because reading him, I spent most of my time wanting to smack him. I won't deny that was most likely the intended response, but it was there. Not to mention a few eye rolls, specifically concerning a few of his escapes where my suspense of disbelief was shattered.

There was a lot of good going on with the rest of the characters though--I loved Jack Crawford. His plight with his wife makes me want to go grab the first novel in the series (I didn't realize this was a sequel when I originally bought the book--sad as that is), just to read more of him and what went on there. Clarice had her moments as well, and you get attached to Ms. Catherine Baker. Barney was up there, too.

Plus, I even felt for Buffalo Bill here and there--which is always a good sign when you sympathize with the serial-killer. Example: When 'Bill's' dog precious was taken hostage, and he decided giving up the hair was worth it to save his dog--you felt for him. How can you completely hate a dog-lover?

End comments? The book came together at the ending for a good, exciting conclusion which made sitting through the rest of it tolerable. The characters were fleshed out and relatable. Not sure what I would do about the plot, I think it's just a personal preference for favoring something a little less slow-build in a serial killer plotline.

If it looks like something you'd like, I'd give it a read. :)