[Strangler Lewis]

I would say Azkaban, Goblet, Phoenix, Chamber. I would put [i]Phoenix[i] ahead of Chamber only because the more mature characters are more interesting and because of Luna. I still think every aspect of the climactic fight at the end of Phoenix--Dumbledore's army, aurors v. deatheaters, Dumbledore v. Voldemort--was a bore that amounted to nothing. Worst moment of Phoenix: the Minister walking in and saying in shock, "He's back." And all was forgiven.

With repeated viewings, I have a fondness for the first one that defies ranking.