book 5-7 hate:
I look at those three somewhat like a trilogy, as books 1-3 were more light hearted whodonits; book 4 is like the turning point (especially the ending) that sets everything up, but book 5 is the one that introduces the basic mechanics and plot points that define the "final quest" if you will. That being said I definitely agree that when you read those first four books it seems like Rowling doesn't exactly know where she's going - especially COS with the diary, which is later revealed to be a horcrux but doesn't make much sense (ie why would Voldermort willingly allow something that valuable to be used by a little girl right under Dumbledore's nose).
I haven't read a word of HP since finishing DH and don't plan on doing so for some time. They mean a lot to me for many reasons, and while I find myself being introduced to various fantasy books that are
better I haven't found anything that makes me care about the characters (big and small) or world as much*
ASOIAF kinda spoiler (SoS)
spoiler (click to show/hide)
*although the "Red Wedding" really got to me
