The best of the four in the saga, in this reader's personal opinion. Something about it managed to form an exceptional blend of supernatural thriller and tumultuous relational examination. It's romantic. It's intense. And there is finally some real action to keep your attention! 
 The characters are strong and well established at this point (as well they should be). The pacing ins keen, and the love-triangle angst runs deep. I particularly appreciated the world-building expansion into more of the vampire lore and history. The inter-species relations are also a highlight, as established foes are forced into the position of tentative allies. 
 As with the two books that preceded it, readers could feel satisfied if this were all there was. But there is certainly an air of intrigue with the Volturi (i.e. the Italian vampire mafia) that begs to be bled out further. (Please don't excuse my pun. >.<)