Makes sense to me, and is kind of where I was when I finished reading. Although you are far more articulate than my brain.

It's interesting to me that this is your first venture into HP fandom, because I haven't gone there at all, and might have skipped this post in the past. But there is something about the ending of this book that drove me to actually think. I mean, I thoroughly enjoyed the previous books, but wasn't left with questions regarding good vs. evil, redemption, etc. So, now we wait. And, I think I go read the crossover you mention.