This book reminds me that truly excellent and heart-felt works of literature can come out of the mystery field. It was a great deal better than Red Dragon, imho, and it really holds its own in both subtlety and panache. There are many good reasons why the story is iconic, but I'm slowly realizing that the whole anti-hero aspect of it might not be the best part. Perhaps I'm just getting older and less fanboyish, or perhaps I just like to see a well-rounded tale make a full circle in my head. Either way, I feel like I can appreciate the whole novel much better than I used to. Starling wasn't always my favorite character, but this time, she really grew on me. I understand better why Hannibal appreciated her. 
 Interesting. 
 :)