Have decided to re-read the entire series. Will not change the original star ratings, but will include my updated star ratings in the wall o' text.

4 stars
My favorite of the first 3 books, from the perspective of adulthood. The story is more complex with multiple seemingly unrelated subplots which converge rather neatly at the book's climax. Plus, Hermione really shines here -- really, this is her story; she gets to save the day by being brainy and ferocious, whereas Harry is lucky when it matters.