Rick has yet to write a book I don’t like. I’m 17, probably too old for his books, but I read them anyway. They were my Harry Potter growing up, and they’ve impacted me so much as a reader and even a person. I don’t ever see myself not reading what he puts out.

On that note, his novels are an exception to my rule/goal to be critical. I’m giving this four stars, but it’s still going on my favorites shelf. His books would have to seriously suck to not be on my favorites shelf at this point, if I’m being quite honest.

I think this novel really highlights Apollo’s character development, and how he’s changed from an arrogant god to a not as arrogant and sometimes compassionate mortal. He’s definitely still Apollo at heart, but he’s a better version of himself, even if he doesn’t think so.

I like the other characters as well. Meg is the most unique pre-teen girl I’ve read about, and I find her amusing. I was so happy to see Grover again, and some favorites from Heroes of Olympus as well.

To me, the writing seems rather simple. That could just be a result of me reading a book meant for people younger than me, so I’m not too worried about it. Additionally, the humor, puns, and haikus more than make up for what I feel is lacking.

Now for the elephant in the room. On the page? I don’t know. But someone died. Technically multiple people/creatures did, but one had a bigger impact on me. I didn’t expect it, and for the next two or three chapters I refused to believe it. Unfortunately, it’s true. To those that haven’t read this yet, have fun with that. 😊

And now I wait for the fourth book.