The Trials of Apollo Book Two The Dark Prophecy

I can't wait for book 3. When I got into Percy Jackson, that's all she wrote. I have thoroughly enjoyed every single one of Riordan's books. This is more of the same. I started this on my recent vacation. Took me a bit to get into it but that was mostly because I couldn't remember book 1 that well. I finished it in 5 days of casual reading. I easily could have done it faster but you know this thing about paying attention to wife and child gets in the way.

Onto Magnus Chase book 2. I waited for a long time to let more books come out before reading the new ones. But I think I'll be reading some of the old ones over again after magnus chase. This should be fun.

No book details to spoil. Just telling you it's more of his good fun work.

Rick Riordan has done it again. The Trials of Apollo Book Two The Dark Prophecy is a work of art! I still don't like Apollo's attitude, but he is getting better relating to humans. I couldn't put the book down - eager to read what comes next. I buy Mr. Riordan's books for my grandchildren to read, but I enjoy them just as much as they do. Highly recommend to all age groups!!!

Not the best of the Demigods series. It is still a good read, and more age friendly than Magnus chase (which is wonderful, but for older teens)
Great new characters, and some cameos by old favorites. Interesting themes about lifestyle choices, and adventuring vs regular life. Read first if you have a younger reader, as there is a section that deals with abuse and PTSD, which is continued from the first in this series. Nice theme of even old jerks can learn and grow.

If you see a lot of negative reviews, it's people complaining about the price of the book, not necessarily about the book itself.

Anyways, I'm a huge Rick Riordan fan and when his books come out, it's like a little holiday for me. The Dark Prophecy was great and a super fun read, as always! It was especially funny for me because it takes place in Indianapolis, a place that is often the butt of the joke in the Midwest Great Lakes region. To think an evil dictator-like person was plotting something sinister there... well honestly, that's not a stretch for me.

There were some moments in the book that things seemed a bit convenient, mostly so that characters didn't lose their stuff, but otherwise everything was paced and plotted really well, the characters introduced were great, the characters we already know were given more dimension, and there were lots of laughs. I'm also interested in a character who seems to be a demigod from Nigeria. I hope we hear more from him!

If you like Rick Riordan you'll like this book. If you're upset with the price, ask your library to buy a copy or wait until the price goes down.

Rick Riordan does it yet again. With the return of a beloved character from the Heroes of Olympus, I was happy to start this book. And it did not disappoint, with a plot full of twists and turns, as well as Rick's signature sass, charm, and humor in his writing. He keeps me coming back for more.

I'm really enjoying the Apollo series. Fans of all of the other Greek/Roman books will love these books and seeing what the other characters are up to. Apollo is very amusing and a nice change for a main character. I had a blast and can't wait for the next book.

More violent than his other books I've read, a bit of overkill it seemed emphasizing too much of alternate lifestyles, although it did have good humorous dialog & I enjoyed seeing characters I enjoyed from Heroes of Olympus series.

I am a real fan of Percy Jackson series, and enjoyed the Heroes of Olympus too. But there is way too much info on Apollo’s past exploits, gay and straight, to be appropriate for kids. Historically accurate for Apollo, but still gratuitous. If Percy didn’t need it to be a great story, neither does a god. Sorry I shelled out such a massive amount of money for ebooks I will never read again or give to my kids. Guess we’ll have to reread the old ones til something PG comes out.

I was glad to see some of the characters from the Percy Jackson series and Heroes of Olympus series. It was never boring and I had trouble putting it down. I love all of Rick Riordans book and this was another great one. I can't wait for the next book I recommend it to everyone.

I have always enjoyed Rick Riordan's books; however, while this one was good, there are many, many, many mentions of Apollo/Lester being in a relationship with those of the same sex. If you are purchasing this book for a classroom, use caution and ask your administration.

I really enjoyed this book and finding out more about Apollo's adventures. I do think the first book was better, however, this book was still enjoyable and the humor and exciting adventures are still in this book. I had wished to see Will and Nico again since I liked them in the first book. They were not present though I did like getting to know the new characters for this book like Emmie and Jo.
Additionally, in this series, I think it is cool when Apollo is faced with his children which continued in this book. Though, in this book his child is not so happy to be around Apollo.
For the next books, I hope to see more Will and Nico and I would love to see Apollo meet his two greatest loves (Daphne and Hyacinthus) at some point in the series. I can't wait to read the next book in one year!

This is the first of the Percy Jackson books that I'm not fond of. Apollo is even harder to like in this volume than last time. I miss Percy's snarky voice. Apollo is just hard to take as a main character. In addition, there is almost no familiar mythology in this book. Knowing in advance where the book was going was always part of the pleasure for me. This time I could not anticipate the story.

3/5
THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS.
DO NOT PROCEED IF YOU DO NOT WANT TO BE SPOILED!
:
:
:
:
:
This book is more tongue-in-cheek than the first one, but it is not a bad follow-up. Only, whereas I thought “The Hidden Oracle” deserved 3.5 stars (I was close to giving it 4), this one gets 3.
The book opens with Apollo travelling with Leo Valdez and Calypso toward Indianapolis. It seems, since his last burst of godly divinity, which he experienced when saving his children from being burnt alive, Apollo has been having prophetic dreams, which is why these three characters find themselves in Indianapolis.
No sooner have they gotten there before Festus sprouts flames and they have to land, running into a gang of blemmyae. An orange-hued ghost comes to their aid and guides them to a place of safety when they need it the most, and they find themselves invited into a secret hiding place called The Way Station, driven by hostess Emmie (Hemithea) and Jo (Josephine). It turns out the hostesses are a couple who has an adopted daughter in need of saving, but in order to save her, Apollo must first free a breeding pair of Griffins from imprisonment.
As such, Apollo finds himself in a predicament where he has to complete a number of side-quests within a few days to get to the end goal.
This book is more reminiscent of the prior Percy Jackson books, where we see group of three undergoing various quests in order to reach an end goal. And while it is nice to see this “format” back in action, there are some things that can get a bit irritating.
I noticed in some other reviews, someone has mentioned the Deus Ex Machina plot advancement in this book, and I agree that this plot device might be just a little overused. Whereas in prior books we have seen our heroes allowed to be captured and having to think of a way out, or fight to survive, there seems to be some kind of divinity watching over Apollo. He is not exactly captured at any point, only close. Whenever it seems everything is hopeless, then, boom, out of seemingly nowhere, a saving grace. This plot device is only justified a few times, as well. For instance, when Apollo and Meg are about to be overrun by enemies at the stadium, Apollo has a tracking device on his ankle – given to him by Jo – which he presses, and this, in turn, alerts his allies where he is. But even in this justified instance, won’t you know it, the hunters appear as well because they happened to be in the area.
I understand this plot device to some extent. Apollo is not very powerful in his mortal body, and as such, he will need these miracles to find him for the plot to keep moving forward, handing us this colourful adventure. Still, I found myself kind of sighing in frustration when the peaches came in the cave to save Apollo, because, once again, his saviours came out of nowhere. Sure, before they came to save him, he had deduced a plan to start saving himself and an ill Meg, but it was still a bit unbelievable how much luck Apollo had throughout the entire quest – side quests included.
However, I wouldn’t say this is a bad book. Not by a far stretch. Even though it does have this Deus Ex Machina plot device, it is an entertaining book that I read in a day, and I even found myself peeking a little to see whom I could expect to meet. And boy, do you meet a LOT of people in this book. Even though this book had a lot of characters – even new ones – Riordan still manages to stick to the traditional three-party quest-buddies without it seeming too forced, and I really appreciated that. Especially since we meet so many in this book.
Luckily, it’s not too overwhelming. Riordan seems to have picked a few important new characters to introduce, such as the hostess couple, their daughter, and 3-4 other characters who gets mentioned more often than not. Many of the other characters who appear, are luckily characters we have met – if only briefly – in prior books, and this is extremely helpful for the reader, as it helps to keep track of the many characters, and not be confused when a few names are dropped here and there.
This time, Apollo references a lot of celebrities as well. Maybe you know them, maybe you don’t, and that might also do something to the quality of your reading the experience – whether you understand the references or not. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not against the references, but sometimes they can work against Riordan. Unlike “The Hidden Oracle” I also didn’t find myself chuckling as much, but I suppose that’s because this is book is more serious in its own way.
We learn a lot more about Meg’s background, which is heart breaking, but it is also a nice way to give her character depth and understand her, sometimes, stand-off-ish attitude better. We also get to see more of Leo’s and Calypso’s relationship, and I, for one, enjoyed that we got to see the not-so-happy side to a relationship. It felt authentic and believable they had spats because they hadn’t had time to just sit and relax and get to know each other well under calmer circumstances. I enjoyed how, despite their spats and what seemed to be a falling-out near the start, they worked through it and stuck together, and seemed to still be in love. Also, I’m not going to lie: The moment Leo said Jo kind of reminded him of his mum, I might have chocked a little. It is so nice to see Leo and Calypso deciding they want to stay at The Way Station and try a life of regular mortals and go into their relationship in slower way, where they have more time to get to know each other and make separate friends, instead of always running from pace to place to survive. Get to know each other together and apart, as Calypso put it. Good on Riordan for showing relationships aren’t all sunshine and smiles, none of the other couples have really had much of that from my recollection.
So, all in all, this is not a bad read. It’s all right and a nice adventure reminiscent of the older Percy Jackson books, but, as mentioned, it is quite tongue-in-cheek when it comes to keeping up with the characters.
I am excited to keep reading this series and see how it all turns out, and how Apollo develops, as he was still narcissistic to some extent, though he seemed a lot more rooted this time around and got much humbler near the end.

Now, before anyone starts screaming "OMG, 3 STARS?! Zoey, are you alright? What is happening?!" let it be told that I very very much enjoyed The Dark Prophecy by my favorite author since childhood.

It is a truth universally acknowledged that Rick Riordan can do no wrong. At all. Never. No chance.
And despite the fact that it emotionally hurts me to rate a Rick Riordan book any less than 4 stars, It will be even worse to be untrue to my feelings.

This book had it all: hilariousness, new characters, well known and beloved characters, Peaches, kickass demigods, a god going through a humanization phase, Leo Valdez, crazed emperors, sad moments, happy moments, heartwarming moments, heartbreaking moments.
I highlighted so many quotes in this book I might as well have highlighted this whole book since it was so quotable.

I laughed, I smiled, and I went all 'awww' over almost everything.
So then what didn't I like about this book?
Nothing, really.
"So why did you rate it 3.5 stars?" you might be thinking.

Well, you see... it simply didn't give me the BANG I was looking for. You know, that punch to the heart when all of your feelings are a mess and through them, the only thing you can think is: "yes, this is... this is what my heart has been looking/searching/hoping for."

Maybe I don't make much sense.

This book had many small bangs, just not a big enough one to make me truly, truly fall in love with it.

That being said, it's only the second book of the series, you guys! There's so much more epicness coming our way - I can feel it.
And... well, it is a truth universally acknowledged (sorry, I just came back from watching Pride and Prejudice and Zombies) that second books in a series are the least favorite ones. That, at least, had been something that always seemed to happen to me with book series. Like how Percy Jackson and the sea of monsters is my least favorite book of the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. Or how the second book of the Heroes of Olympus is my least memorable one.

Not to say they're not great. Just like not to say I didn't like The Dark Prophecy. I totally had my moments of "this is some awesome stuff" and "oh I missed this so much!" I can't seem to stress this enough but I think you got what I'm trying to say here.

My only consolation after saying goodbye (yet again) to my beloved characters of the Percy Jackson universe and having to wait until May 1st, 2018 (please don't let the date change any further) for the third book to come out, is that we get another Rick Riordan book this year and it is none other than the highly anticipated third and last book in the Magnus Chase trilogy!

And now, the wait for The Burning Maze begins.
Shall we enter the depth of the labyrinth once again, my friends?

*Full Review - With Spoilers*

"This doesn't mean I can pinpoint her location with my mind! Zeus as revoked my access to GPS!"
"GPS?" Calypso asked.
"Godly Positioning System."

Meg is back!
I'm sure I'm not the only one to have been so worried about her after the terrible events that left us speechless at the end of The Hidden Oracle.
Oh Meg, you were dearly missed!
Apollo would never admit this but he was not his same glorious self without yo *wink*.

We're still not completely off the hook with Meg, though.
Meg might have escaped and rejoined team good but she has yet to face Nero - her evil and abusive stepfather who we all wish will burn it hell - since her betrayal.
And we all know how Nero has always had his way with Meg.
It would take some serious willpower for her to resist him.
And we can only trust Apollo to help her achieve that.

Speaking of our favorite god, the things he went through in this book...
He's changing.
And I'm so heartwarmed by the fact that he starts to actually care about the world around him.
Apollo, as it seems, has a hidden heart of gold.
I liked him since the first time we met him years ago in Percy Jackson book 3, and now that I've gotten to know him all I can say is... you go, Apollo. I'm rooting for you. You're amazing.

I cannot give up. Apollo/Meg needs me.

Their bond is just... so... precious. *sob*.
Nothing can break it. You hear that, Nero?
Those two are best friends for life (even if they're way too stubborn to ever admit this).

I can't even envision a romantic relationship between them because they're just so best friends - bordering on brother-sister - material.
Not to mention, Meg is, what, 12?
And even if age wasn't the problem, they're just so perfect in this relationship of theirs.
I want them to be closer, and I want them to find love, but between the two of them... they're just so precious the way they are.

It was even made clear when Apollo had to give Meg a mouth to mouth and described it as 'a slimy, unpleasant sensation - much like what I imagined Poseidon experienced when he realized he was kissing the gorgon Medusa.'
Ouch.
Luckily, Meg was unconscious and couldn't punch him in the face for the insult.
Then again, she probably would have punched him in the face for giving her a mouth to mouth in the first place (even if it was to save her life).
Meg is charming this way.

I'd always thought of my sister's followers as a sort of all-maiden mafia. Once you were in, you never left - unless you left in a lovely silver coffin.

Ah, Thalia Grace!
You are a true sight for sore eyes.
It's been, what, a few books now?
I sure did miss our fearless huntress.
*the nostalgia*

Okay, okay, so I was actually hoping - praying, liked Apollo - for Artemis to show up.
Even though it was made clear she wasn't going to, I still wanted to see the two of them interact now that Apollo is mortal.
That should be great fun.
Not to mention, Apollo truly does miss his sister. Which I found heartbreakingly beautiful.
I just love a good brother-sister bond.
I wonder if we'll get to see Artemis, despite the restrictions, soon.

In the meantime, don't die in your foxhunt, Thalia Grace.
I get the feeling you and your hunters will be desperately needed in times to come.

Was there anyone I hadn't betrayed and disappointed? Any relationship I hadn't destroyed?

If I thought The Hidden Oracle was sad with all those flashbacks to Apollo's past...
Hearing Apollo's stories of past times was just... so... very... sad.

That scene when he cried in the toilet was heartbreaking. I wanted to rush in there, hug him, and tell him everything was going to be okay.

I blinked back tears. I was not sad. I was not overwhelmed by their friendship. No, it had just been a very long day and my nerves were fried.

Oh, Apollo.
I find the way he admits to things by denying them is simply adorable.

Leo Valdez - savior of earth (quite literally).
Calypso - an ancient sorceress.
Apollo - a former god turned teenager.

I found this unlikely trio to be so wonderfully fit together.
They had rough times. They argued and shouted and disliked one another. But at the end of the day... they were like family.

That "goodbye" scene between Apollo and Leo & Calypso was just so touching.
I wasn't entirely expecting it because I thought those two would keep on journeying with Apollo and Meg but... I understand why they need some normalcy in their life after everything they've been through (not that it seems they're going to get it so quickly, given Leo's recent mission to warn the Romans of their impending doom).

It was a truly heartfelt moment to see Apollo caring about these two - about everyone at the waystation - as the story progressed.
As arrogant and goddy as he can get, he truly does have a hidden heart of gold.
It only shines brighter with every passing moment.
I already can't wait to see the growth of the Apollo of book 5.

Jimmy's electricity was different - a more humid scent of ozone, a darker red hue to the flashes.

Who is the world is Jimmy?
My suspicions that Jimmy is, in fact, of a different mythology, have been confirmed by the end of the book.

At first, I thought maybe he was part of the Magnus Chase world or even The Kane Chronicles world but oh no, oh no my friends... Jimmy is of different mythology entirely.
And I can't help but think - can't help but hope - that this is a sort of preparation for a brand new Rick Riordan series (!).
Please.
Oh please let it be so.

Rick Riordan is not the type to throw in random clues.
Which means... our dreams for a new mythology series after The Trials of Apollo might come true.

There are so many mythologies out there to explore - Japanese, Chinese, Hindu, etc. - and I can't think of anyone other than Rick Riordan who is better for the job.

In all, the boy reminded me somewhat of Nico Di Angelo, the son of Hades, if Nico was slightly older, more vicious, and had been raised by jackals.

It doesn't matter that I only just saw Nico the other book.
No, I want him around all the time.
That is precisely that kind of obsession I have with Nico Di Angelo. I have been dealing with it since book 4, gasping as every strap, mention, and sightings of him.
That boy really should have gotten his own books. *sigh*.

I scowled at him. "Don't test me, Valdez. When I am a god again, I will make a constellation out of you. I will call it the Small Exploding Latino."
"I like it!" He patted my shoulder, causing my knife to jiggle.
Did no one fear the wrath of the gods anymore?

Sorry, Apollo, but you're talking to the people who saved the world - multiple times - and faced the earth itself.
It would take some serious stuff to rattle them.
And, well, Leo Valdez is Leo Valdez. He's, like, in his own category.

"The only mortal sin," I said. "Would be failing to incinerate you as soon as I become a god again."
"You could try," Leo said. "But then how would you learn those secret scales on the Valdezinator?"
I accidentally sprayed myself in the face. "What secret scales?"

Oh god, flashback to the Valdezinator!
*laughs*

You know the feeling when you suspect you might have fathered someone thousands of years ago, but you're not really sure? Then you see that child as a grown man, and looking into his eyes, you know beyond a doubt that he is yours? Yes, I'm sure many of you can relate.

Oh yeah, sure. Happens all the time. *nodding*.

Speaking of, do you think Georgina really is Apollo's daughter?
I believe so. But then the matter of who her mother is - and why she was abandoned - is a big question.
I wonder if that's going to play a part in later books, or if Rick is going to leave it like that.

Percy Jackson could drive a car.

Percy Jackson can do so much more than just drive a car.
He's the amazing Percy Jackson, after all.

We were ten feet away when we triggered the First Law of Percy Jackson.

That moment when you realize Percy has a law named after him.
They grow so fast *sob*.

I smiled. "Hello, Grover Underwood. I am Apollo. This is Meg. And you, my lucky friend, have been summoned to lead as through the Labyrinth."

That ending, though!

GROVER! It's been too long, buddy!

We missed you in Heroes of Olympus, but now you've got yourself a spot in The Trials of Apollo, so all is well again.

Favorite quotes:

Calypso called me a few names the reminded me how colorful the Minoan language had been before it went extinct.

I hated having a mortal body. I experienced so many bothersome things, like fear, cold, nausea, and the impulse to whimper Please don't kill me!

All those people whose names ended in O - Jo, Leo, Calypso, Apollo - suddenly made me feel like my brand was being diluted. I thanked the gods we were not in Ohio and our dragon was not named Festo.

Demigods today. I blame social media for their short attention spans. When you can't even take the time to listen to a god hold forth, that's just sad.

"What about that song Zeus used to sing?"
I blinked. "Zeus... singing?" I found that concept mildly horrifying.

"Trust Meg, Leo, and Apollo. This is their task: to find and free the captives, to retrieve the Throne of Mnemosyne-"
"And get Festus," Leo added.
"And especially Georgina," Jo added.
"We could pick up some groceries, too," Leo offered. "I noticed you're low on hot sauce."

I sighed inwardly. First it had been the zoo at first light. Then the Canal Walk at first light. Now the caverns. I really wished dangerous quests could start at a more reasonable time, like perhaps three in the afternoon.

"We only fail when we stop trying."

Random thoughts:

How will the new prophecy play out?
Will Artemis make an appearance?
Will we see Demeter - Meg's mother? Or maybe Persephone - Meg's immortal sister?
Will Leo and Calypso ever get some peace and quiet?
What is the dreadful punishment of river Styx going to be? (you should never have made that oath, Apollo!)

All we can do now is wait and see.
2018, here we come.

*This review was first published on my blog: Magiverse*

It's... back to the political crap that he started in the previous book, and hammered home in the Magnus Chase series.. I enjoyed the Percy Jackson series because it was an escape.. this just seems to ramble, its not as enjoyable, and the author seems more focused on shoving his political beliefs down your throat than sticking to the story. The PJ series and Kane Chronicles were amazing.. just seems to have lost his touch or focus in the last two series...

Lifestyle issues are not not what I am concerned about in the books I read. I read for the opportunity to escape reality and enjoy the fantasy that these books use to provide. PJ, Kane Chronicles were enjoyable and provided that escape but they books are starting to swim so deep in the pervasive and controversial life styles of society today that they are not want I want to read them. The author seems intent on attracting the LGBT community in his writings.

I've always enjoyed Riordan's writing and reading his books along with my kids. However, in this series, Riordan plays up homosexual and transgender characters which, in my opinion, is not appropriate for my pre-teen and early teenager kids. In our promoting traditional relationships, this comes at odds with the values my wife and I are trying to teach our children. Even in Greek and Roman mythology, these types of characteristics and behaviors were seen as the decadent and immoral parts of the gods persona and behavior. Not sure if Riordan is feeling the need to push the edges of social boundaries but we won't continue reading this series. Too bad.

I can't believe it's already been a year since the first one came out I loved this book spoiler alert Leo valedez and Grover underwood and many others are in this book and I have to say it was quite interesting to read about them what they been up to since blood of Olympus anyway I had fun reading this book and I know other fans will too and I am very excited for when Magnus chase book 3 comes out this fall and next year with trials of apollo book 3 and other books like the imprint books rick riordan talk about the first book about Hindu mythology aru shah and the end of time coming April 3 2018 looking forward to that and many more books to come.

The Dark Prophecy by Rick Riordan
Book #2: The Trials of Apollo Series
Source: Overdrive Audio/Public Library
My Rating: 5/5 stars

Lester/Apollo isn’t having the best of weeks! Ever since his father, Zeus took away his immortality, his life has been threatened at every turn, he’s had more than a few prophecies (oh, the irony!) to sort out, and one crazy quest to complete. Did I mention, at the end of that first quest came yet another tangled prophecy and quest? Yeah, Lester/Apollo isn’t having the best of weeks ?

Lester/Apollo’s latest adventure finds he, Leo, and Calypso in the middle of Indianapolis trying to track down the next and darkest of the oracles! Walking into a trap doesn’t even begin to describe the situation, but as the kids have discovered, help often arrives in the nick of time and from the most surprising of sources. In this instance, Indianapolis happens to be home to a most wonderful refuge for the creatures, demigods, and deities of the world. Run and defended by two of Artemis’s former hunters, the station house is a unique, ever-changing site meant to provide shelter, healing, and, if needed, a home.

It takes just about a hot minute for things to really heat up in Indianapolis, for the second of the triumvirate to reveal himself, and for the kids to be knee-deep in sorting out one catastrophe after another. There’s a young girl who needs to be rescued and wiped of her madness, there’s Meg to find and do something with ?, there’s the defeating of the second emperor, there’s the securing of the oracle, and there’s the ongoing defense of the refuge and its inhabitants. At every turn, there is true danger, life threatening events, the strangest of allies made, and the saddest of events unfolding. There is also Apollo’s wonderful sense of sarcasm, narcissism, humor, and reminiscing about the past.

As events unfold, Lester/Apollo is forced to face his past, his actions, the consequences of his actions/words, and his own current mortality. What he discovers is an ability to be truly saddened and shamed by some of his past exploits, a desire to right the wrongs of his past, and a sincere willingness (with some internal whining!) to make the present a far more acceptable place to be. Lester/Apollo digs deep to find what’s important to him and discovers he is interested in helping his friends/allies, old and new alike, finding creative if crazy solutions to problems, and helping those who are unable to help themselves. For a once-god only interested in his own happiness, glory, and benefit, this change of attitude is surprising to everyone, but especially Apollo.

The Bottom Line: Yet again, I was sucked into this saga and didn’t want to give up on the listening until the very end! For as much as I adore the act of physically reading a book, I think I have enjoyed this series more as an audio read. Once again, all the characters and their respective personalities simply shine through with the help of a wonderful narrator. In particular is Apollo’s voice; every bit of sarcasm, narcissism, and humor is amplified in the audio version of this book. As to the plot, everything deepened and became more complicated in this middle book of the trilogy and I enjoyed it all. Historically, the emperor in this book is one of my favorites because of his level of crazy, the big reveals and backstory are fantastic, the retrieval of Meg and Peaches is crazy awesome, and the scene in the cave of the oracle is as funny as it is sad. In all, I still wish I had read all the Percy Jackson books first (I’m working on it!) but am still able to follow along and thoroughly enjoy this trilogy. Book three is already on hold with library and I can’t wait to see or hear how this one ends!

A great sequel to a wonderful new series. This book is just as fun and wacky as the first one. Lester's character development is satisfying to watch unfold with just the right amount of arrogance and narcissism to keep me laughing my butt off. A lot of fans were upset by the caleo thing in BoO and rightly so. But Riordan more than makes up for it in this book. Before I read this book, I wasn't fond of Calypso that much and wasn't at all invested in their relationship. The caleo moments in this book were so sweet and I fell in love with both of them. They are both so protective of each other and I could truly tell that they love one another. And I loved their resolution at the end when they decided to stay at the Waystation. Let's just hope Leo gets back in one piece. Cal (as Leo refers to her) is a smart mouthed bad ass and she and Lester's bickering back and forth is just the best thing ever.

Also WE FINALLY HAVE LESBIANS YESS

Rick's books just keep getting gayer and gayer I love it. Not only do we get our first same sex kiss via a flashback of Apollo's but we also get two bad ass lesbian grandmas who were formerly hunters of Artemis. And they were just so amazing I loved them so much. The Hunters make an appearance in this book and I'm always happy to see them. Especially Thalia. (I may have a crush on her) Someone should start a petition for Rick to write an entire 5 book series on them. I would read that in a heartbeat. Also aro/ace hunters confirmed. And apparently ALL romantic love is forbidden, even if it between two ladies.

Lester and Meg bond more in this book and by the end, Lester was even ready to sacrifice his life for her. And that says a lot about his growth. This book was a joy to read and I sped through it eagerly. ALSO GROVER WILL BE PROMINENT IN THE NEXT BOOK OK FINALLY RICK REMEMBERS HE EXISTS.

I adore this series so far. Of course I have loved every book out of the Percy Jackson universe, but The Trials of Apollo is proving especially delightful. It has the same energetic, youthful adventure as the others, and it always manages to teach me something new about mythology. But it is also absolutely hilarious.

Apollo begins the series as the perfect caricature of a god fallen to the mortal world. He is overly confident, positive that everyone around him knows and loves him without restraint, and takes it for granted that others will put his interests above their own without even a shadow of a thought that he should ever do something for someone else.  He also has absolutely no concept of emotions—not how to deal with them, and usually not even that they exist. But he is not cruel, and so the effect is entirely comedic. It also sets him up nicely for some drastic character development. Here are some examples:

“Being productive. Ugh. It's such a human concept. It implies you have limited time (LOL) and have to work hard to make something happen (double LOL).”

"'Come on!' Meg yelled to me. Rather than fighting the birds, she grabbed one's neck and swung onto its back, somehow without dying. She charged away, swinging her blades at monsters and gladiators.
Mildly impressive, but how was I supposed to follow her? Also, she'd just rendered useless my plan of hiding behind her. Such an inconsiderate girl."

Yes, this book is hilarious, but it is also a fantastic story with excellent themes and lessons. Homosexuality is treated like the natural, no-big-deal, unsurprising thing that it should be, which makes me want to hug Rick Riordan for doing such a thing in a children's book. Plus, considering that The Dark Prophecy is the second book out of what is to become five, I'm impressed with the speed of Apollo's transformation into a more human-like character who loves and fears for others, performs selfless acts, and does the right thing. I had assumed he'd make this change more gradually, completing it by the end of the series. Instead, it seems like he is going to spend the second half or so as a good person. I'm very eager to see how it goes.

Apollo (aka Lester), Leo, Calypso and Festus have arrived in Indianapolis on their quest to find the next oracle. In Indianapolis Apollo keeps bumping into people from his past which can be good or very, very bad...especially when one of them is a former caesar with a serious grudge. If Leo, Calypso and Apollo can evade killer ostriches, rescue some griffins, and evade the most polite bad guys on the planet, they just might succeed in getting the next oracle's prophecy for them. But that's a big if.

So Apollo still has a bit of learning to do in the humane part of being human, but he does make progress. He's downgrading his annoying level bit by bit. He might even figure out how to be kind and loving every once in a while without a selfish background motive, which makes this book a bit more enjoyable than the first. Having Leo around full time is also fun. And it was pleasantly different to find demigods having adventures in a midwestern city. The humor wasn't quite as inspired as some of Riordan's original books but it did have it's humorous moments and great lines. The haikus that start each chapter are brilliant.

Notes on content: No language issues. No sexual content. (There are some couples, both heterosexual and homosexual but they aren't super lovey-dovey in this one.) There are battles and some deaths result. Past deaths also come up, including one crushing/beheading that's a teensy bit disturbing. Otherwise, nothing graphic.

I wasn’t going to read this book. I planned not to read this book. Not that I didn’t like the first Trials of Apollo novel, The . . . uh . . . (that’s why I was going to stop reading these books. I’m too old to keep track of 10+ book titles starting with “The”). I did like it, and rather more than I was expecting to. I liked revisiting old friends like Percy Jackson and Annabeth Chase and meeting quirky new ones like Meg McCaffrey. Apollo’s clueless human persona is one of the funniest narrators I’ve read in a while, and he’s even funnier considering he acts like he’s writing an epic tragedy 80 percent of the time. But I wasn’t going to read book two. I had too much to do and too many good books to read to even think about it.

And then I heard Leo Valdez was going to be in this one, and that sealed the deal. Leo and I go way back. I’ve loved his smart-mouthed, sweet, puppy-dog-pitiable self ever since we met, when I was in eighth grade and read the first Heroes of Olympus book. Only he could have brought me back to a series that was already overstaying its welcome in my reading life. What’s more, he brought me back to stay. I came for Leo, but I stayed for horrible haikus, a daughter of Demeter with a backbone of steel and the table manners of a wild goat, and a still-human Apollo who weaves a story both pathetic and pathetically hilarious.

In this second book in the series, Leo, his newly mortal girlfriend, Calypso, and Apollo continue to track down Oracle sites as well as the newly revived Roman emperors that are part of the newest plot to take over the world. While on a pit stop in Indianapolis, they discover that one of them, Commodus, has taken up residence, along with his army of blemmae, bland, stupid monsters who manage to be as unfailingly polite as any Midwesterner. They also find the Waystation, a demigod hideout run by two former Hunters of Artemis who quit the business to grow old and die together. (Artemis, it seems, is an equalist: equally intolerant of both opposite- and same-sex romance within her group of Hunters.) With their help, conquering Commodus shouldn’t be too hard. That is, if Leo and Calypso can stop fighting, and Meg McCaffrey can ever escape her evil stepfather, Nero, and Apollo can surmount his, er, complicated past with Commodus . . .

Honestly, if you want everything Riordan does well, you’ll find it here. In this series, he’s switched back to a single first-person narrator, which is much less exhausting than remembering three to seven third-person narrators in the Heroes of Olympus books. He’s visiting old characters a few at a time, which also helps the effort not to overwhelm us. There's a pair of lovebirds working out their relationship issues and an unlikely friendship between two very annoying people. There are plenty of bad jokes that will crack you up, and there are almost as many heartrending god dreams/visions that will tear you up. There are mean mythological figures and generally kind, content former immortals that make you have hope for your friends’ futures. And, of course, there are way too many names to keep track of. Don’t worry. There’s a glossary in the back.

Perhaps this series is just more of the same old Riordan, as I said of the Magnus Chase books, but if it doesn’t manage to be groundbreaking, it does continue in the same effective vein. And here’s a special bonus for Hoosiers: at long last, your state has been allotted a stop on a Rick Riordan Cross-Country Monster Hunt. You can die knowing that you do not live in a Festus Fly-Over Zone. Honestly, that and a blood-and-tears-filled visit with my old friends is good enough for me.

Once again, a wonderful adventure by Rick Riordan with Apollo, Leo and Calypso. As Fetus lands in Indianapolis they embark on a crazy adventure. It was really great to see Leo again, as so many of us were afraid we would have to say good bye to him forever. Apollo's narrations were so much better in this book than the first one. He came across as less annoying, but he also had a lot of interesting insight on what it means to be immortal and mortal. In this case it is because he was a God and is now stuck as a mortal, but I think it can also apply to us in a lot of the ways. The way we look back and see history, and the way our lives can seem so short and can feel so insignificant. The overall feeling that I got from this book is that I need to go back and re-read more Percy Jackson books, because I love this world and these characters so much. Every aspect of this book is so funny yet not cheesy (unless it is trying to be). It was a solid addition to the Percy Jackson universe, but it was not the best book in the Percy Jackson universe.

The Dark Prophecy is the second book in Rick Riordan’s series The Trials of Apollo. In book one, we learned that Apollo was cast out of Olympus, landing in New York City as the acne-stricken mortal teenage boy Lester Papadopoulos, as punishment by his father, Zeus.

Book two picks up a few weeks after the end of book one. Apollo ends up in Indianapolis. With the help of an unusual cohort of demigods, former immortals, and a menagerie of others, Apollo faces the second member of the triumvirate of immortal former Roman emperors. He also visits the Cave of Trophonius and receives the dark prophecy from the Oracle Trophonius.

As I stated in my review of book one, The Hidden Oracle (October 22, 2017), Riordan’s The Trials of Apollo series has a great deal of overlap with his Percy Jackson and other series. Although I enjoy all of Riordan’s series, Percy Jackson has always been my favorite – always, that is, until I began Apollo’s series. Now, The Trials of Apollo is vying for “favorite” status in my affections.

The Dark Prophecy is a wonderful book that I highly recommend. Apollo is continuing his journey west, and I look forward to book three, which is scheduled for Spring 2018.

In honor of Apollo let me try writing a haiku to describe the plot of this book:

Apollo's so bi
Lesbians rescue their kid
We are very blessed

Aren't I so talented? Seriously though I love that every chapter has a ridiculous haiku at the beginning. And I love these books, they're just fun. Like I see a lot of people complain that they dumb down / change the myths too much or that they're too ridiculous but like A) they're for children and B-Z) why do you hate fun? Anyway I absolutely love Apollo, he was always my favorite god in the PJO series so I love that he's got his own series now. And I love how he's so bi that he spends half the book flashing back to how he used to date the guy they're supposed to be fighting. Amazing. Also love that we get to meet ex-Hunters of Artemis who are in a happy relationship with an adopted daughter. And Leo and Calypso and MEG! I love Meg. Also yay for having something set in Indiana that isn't a horror movie / Supernatural episode ;)

Although there was a reveal about the Hunters that I'm kind of ehhh about: [SPOILERS] like it says that Artemis doesn't allow any romantic relationships in the hunters and I get that Rick did that to make all the hunters aro/ace and I appreciate the effort but like ...obviously they AREN'T because at least two of them fell in love and had to leave the hunters to be together. So it's more like Artemis herself is aro/ace and then she forces that on her hunters, which is really not cool. And this is coming from an aro/ace person who is like literally starved for representation in that area. Maybe it's something he will expand on / make a bit better in later books though. If there's one thing Rick is good at it's listening to constructive criticism and realizing that no matter how far he's come he can always do better when it comes to representation.

This book picks up the story a few months after the first book leaves off. There was interesting action right from the start, it took no effort to get back into the swing of this story. I love the haikus at the beginning of each chapter and I find that the voice of Apollo is so clear and entertaining. The humor and personality of Apollo is so much fun for me to read.

Rick Riordan has an excellent reputation for including a variety of diverse characters into his books and he did not fail to do so again with this book. I appreciate the range of relationships and characters that he introduced in this book. I also love the numerous references to current pop culture that are thrown in throughout the book.

'“Meg, what I’m about to do— never, ever try this on your own.” I felt a bit silly giving this advice to a girl who regularly fought monsters with golden swords, but I had promised Bill Nye the Science Guy I would always promote safe laboratory practices. "

I legitimately laughed aloud when I read the above excerpt. Amazing.

Watching Apollo mature and begin to show genuine care for people other than himself was really a joy for me. There was a lot of action and even more unanswered questions which leave a lot of room for many more books in this series. The appearance of a favorite character from another Rick Riordan series guarantees that the next book will be just as good as the first two in the series.

Okay, I don't know if I was in a mood while reading or it was the book, which is why I'm rounding up my rating. Basically, I could see the jokes, and I thought they were funny, but I didn't laugh. It was bizarre. Also, I feel like it took me way too long to read this book. But, again, I don't know if it's just because I'm in a weird place re: reading or if the book wasn't doing it for me.

Anyway, Riordan knows how to do crossovers. I keep hoping the Kanes will show up, but I know they don't quite overlap with the Camp Halfblood/Camp Jupiter worlds. But it would be nice.

Leo is still my favorite.

Now, before anyone starts screaming "OMG, 3 STARS?! Zoey, are you alright? What is happening?!" let it be told that I very very much enjoyed The Dark Prophecy by my favorite author since childhood.

It is a truth universally acknowledged that Rick Riordan can do no wrong. At all. Never. No chance.
And despite the fact that it emotionally hurts me to rate a Rick Riordan book any less than 4 stars, It will be even worse to be untrue to my feelings.

This book had it all: hilariousness, new characters, well known and beloved characters, Peaches, kickass demigods, a god going through a humanization phase, Leo Valdez, crazed emperors, sad moments, happy moments, heartwarming moments, heartbreaking moments.
I highlighted so many quotes in this book I might as well have highlighted this whole book since it was so quotable.

I laughed, I smiled, and I went all 'awww' over almost everything.
So then what didn't I like about this book?
Nothing, really.
"So why did you rate it 3.5 stars?" you might be thinking.

Well, you see... it simply didn't give me the BANG I was looking for. You know, that punch to the heart when all of your feelings are a mess and through them, the only thing you can think is: "yes, this is... this is what my heart has been looking/searching/hoping for."

Maybe I don't make much sense.

This book had many small bangs, just not a big enough one to make me truly, truly fall in love with it.

That being said, it's only the second book of the series, you guys! There's so much more epicness coming our way - I can feel it.
And... well, it is a truth universally acknowledged (sorry, I just came back from watching Pride and Prejudice and Zombies) that second books in a series are the least favorite ones. That, at least, had been something that always seemed to happen to me with book series. Like how Percy Jackson and the sea of monsters is my least favorite book of the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. Or how the second book of the Heroes of Olympus is my least memorable one.

Not to say they're not great. Just like not to say I didn't like The Dark Prophecy. I totally had my moments of "this is some awesome stuff" and "oh I missed this so much!" I can't seem to stress this enough but I think you got what I'm trying to say here.

My only consolation after saying goodbye (yet again) to my beloved characters of the Percy Jackson universe and having to wait until May 1st, 2018 (please don't let the date change any further) for the third book to come out, is that we get another Rick Riordan book this year and it is none other than the highly anticipated third and last book in the Magnus Chase trilogy!

And now, the wait for The Burning Maze begins.
Shall we enter the depth of the labyrinth once again, my friends?

*Full Review - With Spoilers*

"This doesn't mean I can pinpoint her location with my mind! Zeus as revoked my access to GPS!"
"GPS?" Calypso asked.
"Godly Positioning System."

Meg is back!
I'm sure I'm not the only one to have been so worried about her after the terrible events that left us speechless at the end of The Hidden Oracle.
Oh Meg, you were dearly missed!
Apollo would never admit this but he was not his same glorious self without yo *wink*.

We're still not completely off the hook with Meg, though.
Meg might have escaped and rejoined team good but she has yet to face Nero - her evil and abusive stepfather who we all wish will burn it hell - since her betrayal.
And we all know how Nero has always had his way with Meg.
It would take some serious willpower for her to resist him.
And we can only trust Apollo to help her achieve that.

Speaking of our favorite god, the things he went through in this book...
He's changing.
And I'm so heartwarmed by the fact that he starts to actually care about the world around him.
Apollo, as it seems, has a hidden heart of gold.
I liked him since the first time we met him years ago in Percy Jackson book 3, and now that I've gotten to know him all I can say is... you go, Apollo. I'm rooting for you. You're amazing.

I cannot give up. Apollo/Meg needs me.

Their bond is just... so... precious. *sob*.
Nothing can break it. You hear that, Nero?
Those two are best friends for life (even if they're way too stubborn to ever admit this).

I can't even envision a romantic relationship between them because they're just so best friends - bordering on brother-sister - material.
Not to mention, Meg is, what, 12?
And even if age wasn't the problem, they're just so perfect in this relationship of theirs.
I want them to be closer, and I want them to find love, but between the two of them... they're just so precious the way they are.

It was even made clear when Apollo had to give Meg a mouth to mouth and described it as 'a slimy, unpleasant sensation - much like what I imagined Poseidon experienced when he realized he was kissing the gorgon Medusa.'
Ouch.
Luckily, Meg was unconscious and couldn't punch him in the face for the insult.
Then again, she probably would have punched him in the face for giving her a mouth to mouth in the first place (even if it was to save her life).
Meg is charming this way.

I'd always thought of my sister's followers as a sort of all-maiden mafia. Once you were in, you never left - unless you left in a lovely silver coffin.

Ah, Thalia Grace!
You are a true sight for sore eyes.
It's been, what, a few books now?
I sure did miss our fearless huntress.
*the nostalgia*

Okay, okay, so I was actually hoping - praying, liked Apollo - for Artemis to show up.
Even though it was made clear she wasn't going to, I still wanted to see the two of them interact now that Apollo is mortal.
That should be great fun.
Not to mention, Apollo truly does miss his sister. Which I found heartbreakingly beautiful.
I just love a good brother-sister bond.
I wonder if we'll get to see Artemis, despite the restrictions, soon.

In the meantime, don't die in your foxhunt, Thalia Grace.
I get the feeling you and your hunters will be desperately needed in times to come.

Was there anyone I hadn't betrayed and disappointed? Any relationship I hadn't destroyed?

If I thought The Hidden Oracle was sad with all those flashbacks to Apollo's past...
Hearing Apollo's stories of past times was just... so... very... sad.

That scene when he cried in the toilet was heartbreaking. I wanted to rush in there, hug him, and tell him everything was going to be okay.

I blinked back tears. I was not sad. I was not overwhelmed by their friendship. No, it had just been a very long day and my nerves were fried.

Oh, Apollo.
I find the way he admits to things by denying them is simply adorable.

Leo Valdez - savior of earth (quite literally).
Calypso - an ancient sorceress.
Apollo - a former god turned teenager.

I found this unlikely trio to be so wonderfully fit together.
They had rough times. They argued and shouted and disliked one another. But at the end of the day... they were like family.

That "goodbye" scene between Apollo and Leo & Calypso was just so touching.
I wasn't entirely expecting it because I thought those two would keep on journeying with Apollo and Meg but... I understand why they need some normalcy in their life after everything they've been through (not that it seems they're going to get it so quickly, given Leo's recent mission to warn the Romans of their impending doom).

It was a truly heartfelt moment to see Apollo caring about these two - about everyone at the waystation - as the story progressed.
As arrogant and goddy as he can get, he truly does have a hidden heart of gold.
It only shines brighter with every passing moment.
I already can't wait to see the growth of the Apollo of book 5.

Jimmy's electricity was different - a more humid scent of ozone, a darker red hue to the flashes.

Who is the world is Jimmy?
My suspicions that Jimmy is, in fact, of a different mythology, have been confirmed by the end of the book.

At first, I thought maybe he was part of the Magnus Chase world or even The Kane Chronicles world but oh no, oh no my friends... Jimmy is of different mythology entirely.
And I can't help but think - can't help but hope - that this is a sort of preparation for a brand new Rick Riordan series (!).
Please.
Oh please let it be so.

Rick Riordan is not the type to throw in random clues.
Which means... our dreams for a new mythology series after The Trials of Apollo might come true.

There are so many mythologies out there to explore - Japanese, Chinese, Hindu, etc. - and I can't think of anyone other than Rick Riordan who is better for the job.

In all, the boy reminded me somewhat of Nico Di Angelo, the son of Hades, if Nico was slightly older, more vicious, and had been raised by jackals.

It doesn't matter that I only just saw Nico the other book.
No, I want him around all the time.
That is precisely that kind of obsession I have with Nico Di Angelo. I have been dealing with it since book 4, gasping as every strap, mention, and sightings of him.
That boy really should have gotten his own books. *sigh*.

I scowled at him. "Don't test me, Valdez. When I am a god again, I will make a constellation out of you. I will call it the Small Exploding Latino."
"I like it!" He patted my shoulder, causing my knife to jiggle.
Did no one fear the wrath of the gods anymore?

Sorry, Apollo, but you're talking to the people who saved the world - multiple times - and faced the earth itself.
It would take some serious stuff to rattle them.
And, well, Leo Valdez is Leo Valdez. He's, like, in his own category.

"The only mortal sin," I said. "Would be failing to incinerate you as soon as I become a god again."
"You could try," Leo said. "But then how would you learn those secret scales on the Valdezinator?"
I accidentally sprayed myself in the face. "What secret scales?"

Oh god, flashback to the Valdezinator!
*laughs*

You know the feeling when you suspect you might have fathered someone thousands of years ago, but you're not really sure? Then you see that child as a grown man, and looking into his eyes, you know beyond a doubt that he is yours? Yes, I'm sure many of you can relate.

Oh yeah, sure. Happens all the time. *nodding*.

Speaking of, do you think Georgina really is Apollo's daughter?
I believe so. But then the matter of who her mother is - and why she was abandoned - is a big question.
I wonder if that's going to play a part in later books, or if Rick is going to leave it like that.

Percy Jackson could drive a car.

Percy Jackson can do so much more than just drive a car.
He's the amazing Percy Jackson, after all.

We were ten feet away when we triggered the First Law of Percy Jackson.

That moment when you realize Percy has a law named after him.
They grow so fast *sob*.

I smiled. "Hello, Grover Underwood. I am Apollo. This is Meg. And you, my lucky friend, have been summoned to lead as through the Labyrinth."

That ending, though!

GROVER! It's been too long, buddy!

We missed you in Heroes of Olympus, but now you've got yourself a spot in The Trials of Apollo, so all is well again.

Favorite quotes:

Calypso called me a few names the reminded me how colorful the Minoan language had been before it went extinct.

I hated having a mortal body. I experienced so many bothersome things, like fear, cold, nausea, and the impulse to whimper Please don't kill me!

All those people whose names ended in O - Jo, Leo, Calypso, Apollo - suddenly made me feel like my brand was being diluted. I thanked the gods we were not in Ohio and our dragon was not named Festo.

Demigods today. I blame social media for their short attention spans. When you can't even take the time to listen to a god hold forth, that's just sad.

"What about that song Zeus used to sing?"
I blinked. "Zeus... singing?" I found that concept mildly horrifying.

"Trust Meg, Leo, and Apollo. This is their task: to find and free the captives, to retrieve the Throne of Mnemosyne-"
"And get Festus," Leo added.
"And especially Georgina," Jo added.
"We could pick up some groceries, too," Leo offered. "I noticed you're low on hot sauce."

I sighed inwardly. First it had been the zoo at first light. Then the Canal Walk at first light. Now the caverns. I really wished dangerous quests could start at a more reasonable time, like perhaps three in the afternoon.

"We only fail when we stop trying."

Random thoughts:

How will the new prophecy play out?
Will Artemis make an appearance?
Will we see Demeter - Meg's mother? Or maybe Persephone - Meg's immortal sister?
Will Leo and Calypso ever get some peace and quiet?
What is the dreadful punishment of river Styx going to be? (you should never have made that oath, Apollo!)

All we can do now is wait and see.
2018, here we come.

*This review was first published on my blog: http://magiverse.blogspot.co.il/

I am not a middle school aged fan but I read Percy Jackson to my daughter and we were hooked. We have loved all the subsequent books, well, except Magnus Chase. Too many one liners with pop culture references that will not age well.

This Apollo series is in another category. I do not know what tweens will make of it because it is so mature and melancholy. Riordan is a master story teller of the emotional and social lives of teens and tweens. This particular novel, though, is heartbreaking for me as an older person. So much loss. The situations that Apollo faces are so close to older adults. Concerns with children, a legacy, a life lived with regrets and mistakes. Dilemmas involving all those passages riveted me. As our protagonist grows, reflects, and then changes, it is impossible not to contemplate our own lives. Nothing in these books will make me cry harder than Clarisse's grief over Silena Beauregard's sacrifice, however, this book is full of terrible loss. I want to give Riordan a hug. I need one, too.

I enjoyed revisiting several beloved characters and meeting many new ones, including villains you love to hate. Rick Riordan is an accomplished storyteller and a king of cliffhangers. I am looking forward to the next trial of Apollo.
A note to parents, I recommend this series for high school and up, rather than elementary or middle school age, because of certain references to life styles and situations of some of the characters. Parents may want to preview the books or read them with younger kids who are fans of the author.

Just a few spoilers.
This is short. Don't worry.

This book isnt as enjoyable as the other books Rick Riordan has written.

First of all, he is relying heavily on pop cultural refrences and is failing. I enjoyed the other books in the past with a few McDonalds referances here and there, but this is out of control. Rick, the books you wrote were great. You dont
have to rely on teens to have an audience.

Second of all, there wasnt enough to keep me interested. This might just be me, but I kinda feel like this was just telling us the prophecy the whole book, and of course there was that battle scene (epic) but I alo feel like we could've gotten the prophecy within a chapterr in the Burning Maze. I just feel like this book was a bridge between the first nd the third book, and I dont like books like that.

Thirdly, the whole absence of the previous cast. Yes, we have pleanty of Leo and Calysto (did NOT like the decision of them just being friends, BTW) I wish there was more of the seven. I wish thay Percy and Annabeth could help figure out a solution. I wish Hazel could help search for the Oracle. I iwish Frank could go undercover. That sort of thing. Im also asking you to keep us posted on the previous casts' whereabouts.

THINGS I LIKE

The relationship between Emmy and Josephine. I think its good the Rick is true to the rainbow.

The battle at the end. Epic.

The big cliffhaanger at the end. WHY????!!!!

SUMMARY

My reviews arent usually as long and structured as this, but whatever.

I like that Rick is exploring Religons & Love in his characters. The battles are awesome, and the stories are exciting. Just a little slow, and i have a few issues with content.

To be clear, I also think that Riordan will be my favorite author for life.

Stay safe, Demigods

A book reader

I loved the first book in this series and I found that in this book I was just as intrigued and excited about this one as I read this too. As I started to read this I found that I still loved the characters. I love that you have some of the same characters but also some new ones too! You get to go a bit deeper into mythology which is amazing. You get a ton of action, adventure, friendship and more in this great book. This book is a great add-on to the first book and I loved that Riordan is able to bring mythology and present day to life in this innovative way. I can tell you this book continues to make me interested in seeing more and more books in this series to come.

To just say I love this book, and this series isn't enough. I think it's a wonderful book filled with a tale following narcissistic Apollo and his new pal Meg on a trail that guides through a lot of relevant hot topics today. Gender norms, stereotypes, LGBTQ issues, life as a teenager, and then you get to the actual adventure!! What a fun book to read, I couldn't put it down. It has all the fun of Rick Riordan's usual theme, with a little spin on it in Apollo's point of view. Wind down the turns of Apollo's meltdowns and his story of finding out how important mortals really are to olympians. Of course some problems are solved more in mythology rather than real world solutions, but characters come back from the dead to revive a story that you never really want to end.

To think I am 27 years old, about to get married, and potentially have kids before the 4th installment kills me haha. I'll be fine by book 3 in 2018, but will it really be 2019 and 2020 for books 4 and 5!

Small Spoilers
This book was amazing to simply put it. It really reflects on Apollo's past. There were several people in Apollo's past that were in this book. I like how Apollo begins to relize that he isnt a god anymore. He becomes much more understanding of mortals.For example, he states that he had never really thought about what mortals thought when they were given a difficult task. He understands about giving about immortality. He even sacrifices himself to save Meg which he states in his previous life if he was a mortal he would never do that. Another thing I liked was several refrences to now a day culture.Cough Cough water bottle flipping Cough Cough Pokemon Go Cough Cough. I had always liked Apollo even though he was a bit cocky in the Heros of Olympus and the first series. This book was written in Riodion's humor and detail. Also shoutouts to all the Hunters of Artemis for helping. Well this is getting long and I am typing on kindle. Anywhys very creative ideas (never though about such a cool place like whys-oops shouldn't spoil they have to read themsleves. Great book defiently worth the money.
P.S Soory for spelling mistakes
P.P.S My name is Dexter thisis my moms account.

Where was this guy when I had to read Greek and Roman mythology in school. Way to turn a history lesson into something fun and interesting. To date, the Percy Jackson series is still my favorite from Rick Riordan but this one holds it's own as well. Apollo is slowing becoming more "human" and starting to realize what family and friendship really means. He is also starting see things from a human perspective like how tough it is to be a demi-god and be ignored by your "Godly" parent for most, if not all of your life. His terrible poetry is awful but cute. A very good read.

This review may contain some minor spoilers. It is an excellent story connecting all the three worlds of Percy Jackson series, the Heroes of Olympus series (Camp Jupiter and its members) and the latest Trials of Apollo series. This book introduces a lot of new characters along with significant participation from the last two series.

A vivid description of the contemporary American landscape and society, along with ancient Roman emperors and their subjects, fierce battles for survival, dangerous rescue missions, a whole new mysterious Oracle and last but not the least, a Shakespearean Sonnet to reveal the next quest for the brave demigods and mortal (Apollo is currently one with the alias Lester) have made this book a perfect adventure thriller.

Also, Calypso, the Titan sorceress has a major role here, along with several other mortals. Btw, did I tell you that our favorite Satyr, Grover Underwood is also back here. He is going to be Apollo and Meg's guide for the next quest - The Burning Maze. (May, 2018). Hope to see Percy Jackson slashing his Riptide once again.

this book is a very good book, it really shows a lot of change with the characters, and adds some new ones. The book shows Apollo aging as a mortal, and continuing to miss being one, and giving a lot of flashbacks to when he was a god. The story was also good, and engaging, but I felt like the book stuffed a lot of the story near the end of the book and left a lot of cliffhangers at the end, and the majority of the new characters were also introduced at the end, and also like the last book this relies too heavily Riordan's last series's, and the bringing back of characters some characters, and the reintroducing of some characters was just too short. with all of its flaws,

I still recommend to read this book.

I have to know guys... does Leo Valdez come back in this series, or any other series?? I have read "Heroes of Olympus" three times now and just absolutely in love with Leo... i just despretly want to see more of him.. and the rest of the seven well... including all the extra demigods... Reyna, Nico, Coach Hedge (and his son) and Calypso. WHO COMES BACK IN THIS SERIES??

Honestly, relate anything to the Percy Jackson series and I'll read it. Is Apollo as good an MC as Percy? No. But the whimsical writing style of Riordan will always prevail. (Besides I doubt we're supposed to like Apollo all the time.) Meg is also back for her leading role as sassiest demigod. If you were a Leo/Calypso fan from the Roman series, you definitely need to read this book.
The only drawback was the many henchmen of this book's villain were easy to mix up and I forgot who was who. But henchmen hardly matter. Especially when armored battle-ostriches are involved.

Frankly if the term battle-ostriches doesn't make you pick up this book, nothing else I say will.

I thought this second book was good if not better then the first. this is because the characters have all been introduced, the obstacles set, the plan made and finally we can enjoy the journey and battle and LEO!! alot of peole complained about the gay and bi thing going on, but as a teen i did'nt find it to be overbearing. i think Emmi and Jo are a great couple giving up immortality for love was a great message. i found Apollo allitle less whiny which made the book alot more enjoyable.

The 2nd book in the Trials of Apollo series -to me - is better than the first. In the first book, I had a hard time liking Apollo. In this book, he is beginning to think about other people. There is still a lot of action and different locales. If you like the other books Riordan has written in the demigod series, you will like this one. Plus, you may see a few old friends make cameo appearances.

This book is an amazing book and a great new installment to the Percy Jackson series. Although its not part of the main books it is in the same world with some of the same characters and places. Apollo was stripped of his powers and cast down to Earth as punishment by Zeus. He meets a girl named Meg, who's stepfather works for the Triumvirate, a band of evil immortal emperors. Meg's father was killed by her stepfather, who tells her the Beast killed him, but he is the beast. This book takes Apollo on a journey through Indiana, with the goal to rescue the second oracle. Apollo has to rescue griffins and infiltrate the palace of the second emperor, Commodus.

This book has amazing figurative language and a great way of how it was written, with vivid imagery. I would very highly recommend reading this book. It is great for people from ages 10-12 interested in an action packed Greek Mythology book and that has read the other books in the series.

I just finished this book and I can't wait for the next installment.But I wish someone would tell Apollo we're Hoosiers, not Indianans. But my Girl Scout troop does an overnight every year at the Indianapolis Zoo and we've done one at Bluesprings Caverns, which added to my enjoyment. I thought the beginning was a bit jerky, but Riordan is definitely the storyteller of the Gods.

Even better than the first of this series. Confusing if you haven't finished the Roman & Greek heroes series, Percy Jackson series you don't need to remember or know it. No need to finish the Asgard series (not yet completed). Can't wait for book 3. And super excited for this world to expand more. Greek & Roman heroes, asgardains, egyptian gods what mythology is next?!?!?

I marvel at Rick Riordan's creativity! While i believe this series is written for young adult/young readers, so? As a "senior" reader, I find his writing educational, entertaining, and just plain FUN. Go Dude!!

I'm not too sure about this book. I can't seem to get my head around the gayness that occurres, especially when Apollo just casually talks about the guys he had/has crush on. He just says [SPOILER ALERT] he thinks Jamie is handsome and then is like 'Oh crap, this guy has a girlfriend' and excuses himself from the room. He also talks about how a guy was on of his greatest loves. The book itself is amazing, [SPOILER ALERT] Meg McCaffery is back and Apollo has to go on three quests with different people and in the end, kicks everyones but, including the New Hercules.
By Emil Hinchliff

As Lester/Apollo, Leo, Calypso and Festus are forced to flee the Emperors' troops leading them to ex-Hunters of Artemis and a cheese colored ghost, along with a safe haven. But, as complications grow making it so that our heroes must go on another quest.

I bought this book from a book fair at my school, it was a little expensive, but very worth it! The book featured amazing characters and a great storyline that'll never got old. My favorite part is the fact that the book featured different aspects of people, with not many younger demographic books tend to do. One example is the lesbian couple in the book, which was a wonderful touch. I would recommend reading some other books in this series before reading this one, though. All in all, it was a wonderful book for Summer reading!  Mandy Zhang, Daughter of the account owner.

I like this book because there is a lot of action and every part of the book was very suspenseful. This book was hard for me to put down! I really was pulled in and felt like I was part of the story! I think that Rick Riordan does a great job of this in all of his books. What's also great about this book is the characters are described in detail yet the story is fast paced at the same time. Trials of Apollo makes you do a lot of thinking about trust and loyalty. These are just a few reasons why I think you should read this book.

Riordan used to be a reliable go-to author. His characters were well-developed, and his story lines made sense. I'm about 25% into Trials of Apollo 2, and I wish that I could 1) return the book for my money back, and 2) recover the time I spent trying to like this book. Even old characters from the last Percy Jackson series no longer have identifiable personalities.

Now, before anyone starts screaming "OMG, 3 STARS?! Zoey, are you alright? What is happening?!" let it be told that I very very much enjoyed The Dark Prophecy by my favorite author since childhood.

It is a truth universally acknowledged that Rick Riordan can do no wrong. At all. Never. No chance.
And despite the fact that it emotionally hurts me to rate a Rick Riordan book any less than 4 stars, It will be even worse to be untrue to my feelings.

This book had it all: hilariousness, new characters, well known and beloved characters, Peaches, kickass demigods, a god going through a humanization phase, Leo Valdez, crazed emperors, sad moments, happy moments, heartwarming moments, heartbreaking moments.
I highlighted so many quotes in this book I might as well have highlighted this whole book since it was so quotable.

I laughed, I smiled, and I went all 'awww' over almost everything.
So then what didn't I like about this book?
Nothing, really.
"So why did you rate it 3.5 stars?" you might be thinking.

Well, you see... it simply didn't give me the BANG I was looking for. You know, that punch to the heart when all of your feelings are a mess and through them, the only thing you can think is: "yes, this is... this is what my heart has been looking/searching/hoping for."

Maybe I don't make much sense.

This book had many small bangs, just not a big enough one to make me truly, truly fall in love with it.

That being said, it's only the second book of the series, you guys! There's so much more epicness coming our way - I can feel it.
And... well, it is a truth universally acknowledged (sorry, I just came back from watching Pride and Prejudice and Zombies) that second books in a series are the least favorite ones. That, at least, had been something that always seemed to happen to me with book series. Like how Percy Jackson and the sea of monsters is my least favorite book of the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. Or how the second book of the Heroes of Olympus is my least memorable one.

Not to say they're not great. Just like not to say I didn't like The Dark Prophecy. I totally had my moments of "this is some awesome stuff" and "oh I missed this so much!" I can't seem to stress this enough but I think you got what I'm trying to say here.

My only consolation after saying goodbye (yet again) to my beloved characters of the Percy Jackson universe and having to wait until May 1st, 2018 (please don't let the date change any further) for the third book to come out, is that we get another Rick Riordan book this year and it is none other than the highly anticipated third and last book in the Magnus Chase trilogy!

And now, the wait for The Burning Maze begins.
Shall we enter the depth of the labyrinth once again, my friends?

*Full Review - With Spoilers*

"This doesn't mean I can pinpoint her location with my mind! Zeus as revoked my access to GPS!"
"GPS?" Calypso asked.
"Godly Positioning System."

Meg is back!
I'm sure I'm not the only one to have been so worried about her after the terrible events that left us speechless at the end of The Hidden Oracle.
Oh Meg, you were dearly missed!
Apollo would never admit this but he was not his same glorious self without yo *wink*.

We're still not completely off the hook with Meg, though.
Meg might have escaped and rejoined team good but she has yet to face Nero - her evil and abusive stepfather who we all wish will burn it hell - since her betrayal.
And we all know how Nero has always had his way with Meg.
It would take some serious willpower for her to resist him.
And we can only trust Apollo to help her achieve that.

Speaking of our favorite god, the things he went through in this book...
He's changing.
And I'm so heartwarmed by the fact that he starts to actually care about the world around him.
Apollo, as it seems, has a hidden heart of gold.
I liked him since the first time we met him years ago in Percy Jackson book 3, and now that I've gotten to know him all I can say is... you go, Apollo. I'm rooting for you. You're amazing.

I cannot give up. Apollo/Meg needs me.

Their bond is just... so... precious. *sob*.
Nothing can break it. You hear that, Nero?
Those two are best friends for life (even if they're way too stubborn to ever admit this).

I can't even envision a romantic relationship between them because they're just so best friends - bordering on brother-sister - material.
Not to mention, Meg is, what, 12?
And even if age wasn't the problem, they're just so perfect in this relationship of theirs.
I want them to be closer, and I want them to find love, but between the two of them... they're just so precious the way they are.

It was even made clear when Apollo had to give Meg a mouth to mouth and described it as 'a slimy, unpleasant sensation - much like what I imagined Poseidon experienced when he realized he was kissing the gorgon Medusa.'
Ouch.
Luckily, Meg was unconscious and couldn't punch him in the face for the insult.
Then again, she probably would have punched him in the face for giving her a mouth to mouth in the first place (even if it was to save her life).
Meg is charming this way.

I'd always thought of my sister's followers as a sort of all-maiden mafia. Once you were in, you never left - unless you left in a lovely silver coffin.

Ah, Thalia Grace!
You are a true sight for sore eyes.
It's been, what, a few books now?
I sure did miss our fearless huntress.
*the nostalgia*

Okay, okay, so I was actually hoping - praying, liked Apollo - for Artemis to show up.
Even though it was made clear she wasn't going to, I still wanted to see the two of them interact now that Apollo is mortal.
That should be great fun.
Not to mention, Apollo truly does miss his sister. Which I found heartbreakingly beautiful.
I just love a good brother-sister bond.
I wonder if we'll get to see Artemis, despite the restrictions, soon.

In the meantime, don't die in your foxhunt, Thalia Grace.
I get the feeling you and your hunters will be desperately needed in times to come.

Was there anyone I hadn't betrayed and disappointed? Any relationship I hadn't destroyed?

If I thought The Hidden Oracle was sad with all those flashbacks to Apollo's past...
Hearing Apollo's stories of past times was just... so... very... sad.

That scene when he cried in the toilet was heartbreaking. I wanted to rush in there, hug him, and tell him everything was going to be okay.

I blinked back tears. I was not sad. I was not overwhelmed by their friendship. No, it had just been a very long day and my nerves were fried.

Oh, Apollo.
I find the way he admits to things by denying them is simply adorable.

Leo Valdez - savior of earth (quite literally).
Calypso - an ancient sorceress.
Apollo - a former god turned teenager.

I found this unlikely trio to be so wonderfully fit together.
They had rough times. They argued and shouted and disliked one another. But at the end of the day... they were like family.

That "goodbye" scene between Apollo and Leo & Calypso was just so touching.
I wasn't entirely expecting it because I thought those two would keep on journeying with Apollo and Meg but... I understand why they need some normalcy in their life after everything they've been through (not that it seems they're going to get it so quickly, given Leo's recent mission to warn the Romans of their impending doom).

It was a truly heartfelt moment to see Apollo caring about these two - about everyone at the waystation - as the story progressed.
As arrogant and goddy as he can get, he truly does have a hidden heart of gold.
It only shines brighter with every passing moment.
I already can't wait to see the growth of the Apollo of book 5.

Jimmy's electricity was different - a more humid scent of ozone, a darker red hue to the flashes.

Who is the world is Jimmy?
My suspicions that Jimmy is, in fact, of a different mythology, have been confirmed by the end of the book.

At first, I thought maybe he was part of the Magnus Chase world or even The Kane Chronicles world but oh no, oh no my friends... Jimmy is of different mythology entirely.
And I can't help but think - can't help but hope - that this is a sort of preparation for a brand new Rick Riordan series (!).
Please.
Oh please let it be so.

Rick Riordan is not the type to throw in random clues.
Which means... our dreams for a new mythology series after The Trials of Apollo might come true.

There are so many mythologies out there to explore - Japanese, Chinese, Hindu, etc. - and I can't think of anyone other than Rick Riordan who is better for the job.

In all, the boy reminded me somewhat of Nico Di Angelo, the son of Hades, if Nico was slightly older, more vicious, and had been raised by jackals.

It doesn't matter that I only just saw Nico the other book.
No, I want him around all the time.
That is precisely that kind of obsession I have with Nico Di Angelo. I have been dealing with it since book 4, gasping as every strap, mention, and sightings of him.
That boy really should have gotten his own books. *sigh*.

I scowled at him. "Don't test me, Valdez. When I am a god again, I will make a constellation out of you. I will call it the Small Exploding Latino."
"I like it!" He patted my shoulder, causing my knife to jiggle.
Did no one fear the wrath of the gods anymore?

Sorry, Apollo, but you're talking to the people who saved the world - multiple times - and faced the earth itself.
It would take some serious stuff to rattle them.
And, well, Leo Valdez is Leo Valdez. He's, like, in his own category.

"The only mortal sin," I said. "Would be failing to incinerate you as soon as I become a god again."
"You could try," Leo said. "But then how would you learn those secret scales on the Valdezinator?"
I accidentally sprayed myself in the face. "What secret scales?"

Oh god, flashback to the Valdezinator!
*laughs*

You know the feeling when you suspect you might have fathered someone thousands of years ago, but you're not really sure? Then you see that child as a grown man, and looking into his eyes, you know beyond a doubt that he is yours? Yes, I'm sure many of you can relate.

Oh yeah, sure. Happens all the time. *nodding*.

Speaking of, do you think Georgina really is Apollo's daughter?
I believe so. But then the matter of who her mother is - and why she was abandoned - is a big question.
I wonder if that's going to play a part in later books, or if Rick is going to leave it like that.

Percy Jackson could drive a car.

Percy Jackson can do so much more than just drive a car.
He's the amazing Percy Jackson, after all.

We were ten feet away when we triggered the First Law of Percy Jackson.

That moment when you realize Percy has a law named after him.
They grow so fast *sob*.

I smiled. "Hello, Grover Underwood. I am Apollo. This is Meg. And you, my lucky friend, have been summoned to lead as through the Labyrinth."

That ending, though!

GROVER! It's been too long, buddy!

We missed you in Heroes of Olympus, but now you've got yourself a spot in The Trials of Apollo, so all is well again.

Favorite quotes:

Calypso called me a few names the reminded me how colorful the Minoan language had been before it went extinct.

I hated having a mortal body. I experienced so many bothersome things, like fear, cold, nausea, and the impulse to whimper Please don't kill me!

All those people whose names ended in O - Jo, Leo, Calypso, Apollo - suddenly made me feel like my brand was being diluted. I thanked the gods we were not in Ohio and our dragon was not named Festo.

Demigods today. I blame social media for their short attention spans. When you can't even take the time to listen to a god hold forth, that's just sad.

"What about that song Zeus used to sing?"
I blinked. "Zeus... singing?" I found that concept mildly horrifying.

"Trust Meg, Leo, and Apollo. This is their task: to find and free the captives, to retrieve the Throne of Mnemosyne-"
"And get Festus," Leo added.
"And especially Georgina," Jo added.
"We could pick up some groceries, too," Leo offered. "I noticed you're low on hot sauce."

I sighed inwardly. First it had been the zoo at first light. Then the Canal Walk at first light. Now the caverns. I really wished dangerous quests could start at a more reasonable time, like perhaps three in the afternoon.

"We only fail when we stop trying."

Random thoughts:

How will the new prophecy play out?
Will Artemis make an appearance?
Will we see Demeter - Meg's mother? Or maybe Persephone - Meg's immortal sister?
Will Leo and Calypso ever get some peace and quiet?
What is the dreadful punishment of river Styx going to be? (you should never have made that oath, Apollo!)

All we can do now is wait and see.
2018, here we come.

*This review was first published on my blog: http://magiverse.blogspot.co.il/

I am not a middle school aged fan but I read Percy Jackson to my daughter and we were hooked. We have loved all the subsequent books, well, except Magnus Chase. Too many one liners with pop culture references that will not age well.

This Apollo series is in another category. I do not know what tweens will make of it because it is so mature and melancholy. Riordan is a master story teller of the emotional and social lives of teens and tweens. This particular novel, though, is heartbreaking for me as an older person. So much loss. The situations that Apollo faces are so close to older adults. Concerns with children, a legacy, a life lived with regrets and mistakes. Dilemmas involving all those passages riveted me. As our protagonist grows, reflects, and then changes, it is impossible not to contemplate our own lives. Nothing in these books will make me cry harder than Clarisse's grief over Silena Beauregard's sacrifice, however, this book is full of terrible loss. I want to give Riordan a hug. I need one, too.

I enjoyed revisiting several beloved characters and meeting many new ones, including villains you love to hate. Rick Riordan is an accomplished storyteller and a king of cliffhangers. I am looking forward to the next trial of Apollo.
A note to parents, I recommend this series for high school and up, rather than elementary or middle school age, because of certain references to life styles and situations of some of the characters. Parents may want to preview the books or read them with younger kids who are fans of the author.

Just a few spoilers.
This is short. Don't worry.

This book isnt as enjoyable as the other books Rick Riordan has written.

First of all, he is relying heavily on pop cultural refrences and is failing. I enjoyed the other books in the past with a few McDonalds referances here and there, but this is out of control. Rick, the books you wrote were great. You dont
have to rely on teens to have an audience.

Second of all, there wasnt enough to keep me interested. This might just be me, but I kinda feel like this was just telling us the prophecy the whole book, and of course there was that battle scene (epic) but I alo feel like we could've gotten the prophecy within a chapterr in the Burning Maze. I just feel like this book was a bridge between the first nd the third book, and I dont like books like that.

Thirdly, the whole absence of the previous cast. Yes, we have pleanty of Leo and Calysto (did NOT like the decision of them just being friends, BTW) I wish there was more of the seven. I wish thay Percy and Annabeth could help figure out a solution. I wish Hazel could help search for the Oracle. I iwish Frank could go undercover. That sort of thing. Im also asking you to keep us posted on the previous casts' whereabouts.

THINGS I LIKE

The relationship between Emmy and Josephine. I think its good the Rick is true to the rainbow.

The battle at the end. Epic.

The big cliffhaanger at the end. WHY????!!!!

SUMMARY

My reviews arent usually as long and structured as this, but whatever.

I like that Rick is exploring Religons & Love in his characters. The battles are awesome, and the stories are exciting. Just a little slow, and i have a few issues with content.

To be clear, I also think that Riordan will be my favorite author for life.

Stay safe, Demigods

A book reader

I loved the first book in this series and I found that in this book I was just as intrigued and excited about this one as I read this too. As I started to read this I found that I still loved the characters. I love that you have some of the same characters but also some new ones too! You get to go a bit deeper into mythology which is amazing. You get a ton of action, adventure, friendship and more in this great book. This book is a great add-on to the first book and I loved that Riordan is able to bring mythology and present day to life in this innovative way. I can tell you this book continues to make me interested in seeing more and more books in this series to come.

To just say I love this book, and this series isn't enough. I think it's a wonderful book filled with a tale following narcissistic Apollo and his new pal Meg on a trail that guides through a lot of relevant hot topics today. Gender norms, stereotypes, LGBTQ issues, life as a teenager, and then you get to the actual adventure!! What a fun book to read, I couldn't put it down. It has all the fun of Rick Riordan's usual theme, with a little spin on it in Apollo's point of view. Wind down the turns of Apollo's meltdowns and his story of finding out how important mortals really are to olympians. Of course some problems are solved more in mythology rather than real world solutions, but characters come back from the dead to revive a story that you never really want to end.

To think I am 27 years old, about to get married, and potentially have kids before the 4th installment kills me haha. I'll be fine by book 3 in 2018, but will it really be 2019 and 2020 for books 4 and 5!

Small Spoilers
This book was amazing to simply put it. It really reflects on Apollo's past. There were several people in Apollo's past that were in this book. I like how Apollo begins to relize that he isnt a god anymore. He becomes much more understanding of mortals.For example, he states that he had never really thought about what mortals thought when they were given a difficult task. He understands about giving about immortality. He even sacrifices himself to save Meg which he states in his previous life if he was a mortal he would never do that. Another thing I liked was several refrences to now a day culture.Cough Cough water bottle flipping Cough Cough Pokemon Go Cough Cough. I had always liked Apollo even though he was a bit cocky in the Heros of Olympus and the first series. This book was written in Riodion's humor and detail. Also shoutouts to all the Hunters of Artemis for helping. Well this is getting long and I am typing on kindle. Anywhys very creative ideas (never though about such a cool place like whys-oops shouldn't spoil they have to read themsleves. Great book defiently worth the money.
P.S Soory for spelling mistakes
P.P.S My name is Dexter thisis my moms account.

Where was this guy when I had to read Greek and Roman mythology in school. Way to turn a history lesson into something fun and interesting. To date, the Percy Jackson series is still my favorite from Rick Riordan but this one holds it's own as well. Apollo is slowing becoming more "human" and starting to realize what family and friendship really means. He is also starting see things from a human perspective like how tough it is to be a demi-god and be ignored by your "Godly" parent for most, if not all of your life. His terrible poetry is awful but cute. A very good read.

This review may contain some minor spoilers. It is an excellent story connecting all the three worlds of Percy Jackson series, the Heroes of Olympus series (Camp Jupiter and its members) and the latest Trials of Apollo series. This book introduces a lot of new characters along with significant participation from the last two series.

A vivid description of the contemporary American landscape and society, along with ancient Roman emperors and their subjects, fierce battles for survival, dangerous rescue missions, a whole new mysterious Oracle and last but not the least, a Shakespearean Sonnet to reveal the next quest for the brave demigods and mortal (Apollo is currently one with the alias Lester) have made this book a perfect adventure thriller.

Also, Calypso, the Titan sorceress has a major role here, along with several other mortals. Btw, did I tell you that our favorite Satyr, Grover Underwood is also back here. He is going to be Apollo and Meg's guide for the next quest - The Burning Maze. (May, 2018). Hope to see Percy Jackson slashing his Riptide once again.

this book is a very good book, it really shows a lot of change with the characters, and adds some new ones. The book shows Apollo aging as a mortal, and continuing to miss being one, and giving a lot of flashbacks to when he was a god. The story was also good, and engaging, but I felt like the book stuffed a lot of the story near the end of the book and left a lot of cliffhangers at the end, and the majority of the new characters were also introduced at the end, and also like the last book this relies too heavily Riordan's last series's, and the bringing back of characters some characters, and the reintroducing of some characters was just too short. with all of its flaws,

I still recommend to read this book.

I have to know guys... does Leo Valdez come back in this series, or any other series?? I have read "Heroes of Olympus" three times now and just absolutely in love with Leo... i just despretly want to see more of him.. and the rest of the seven well... including all the extra demigods... Reyna, Nico, Coach Hedge (and his son) and Calypso. WHO COMES BACK IN THIS SERIES??

Honestly, relate anything to the Percy Jackson series and I'll read it. Is Apollo as good an MC as Percy? No. But the whimsical writing style of Riordan will always prevail. (Besides I doubt we're supposed to like Apollo all the time.) Meg is also back for her leading role as sassiest demigod. If you were a Leo/Calypso fan from the Roman series, you definitely need to read this book.
The only drawback was the many henchmen of this book's villain were easy to mix up and I forgot who was who. But henchmen hardly matter. Especially when armored battle-ostriches are involved.

Frankly if the term battle-ostriches doesn't make you pick up this book, nothing else I say will.

I thought this second book was good if not better then the first. this is because the characters have all been introduced, the obstacles set, the plan made and finally we can enjoy the journey and battle and LEO!! alot of peole complained about the gay and bi thing going on, but as a teen i did'nt find it to be overbearing. i think Emmi and Jo are a great couple giving up immortality for love was a great message. i found Apollo allitle less whiny which made the book alot more enjoyable.

The 2nd book in the Trials of Apollo series -to me - is better than the first. In the first book, I had a hard time liking Apollo. In this book, he is beginning to think about other people. There is still a lot of action and different locales. If you like the other books Riordan has written in the demigod series, you will like this one. Plus, you may see a few old friends make cameo appearances.

This book is an amazing book and a great new installment to the Percy Jackson series. Although its not part of the main books it is in the same world with some of the same characters and places. Apollo was stripped of his powers and cast down to Earth as punishment by Zeus. He meets a girl named Meg, who's stepfather works for the Triumvirate, a band of evil immortal emperors. Meg's father was killed by her stepfather, who tells her the Beast killed him, but he is the beast. This book takes Apollo on a journey through Indiana, with the goal to rescue the second oracle. Apollo has to rescue griffins and infiltrate the palace of the second emperor, Commodus.

This book has amazing figurative language and a great way of how it was written, with vivid imagery. I would very highly recommend reading this book. It is great for people from ages 10-12 interested in an action packed Greek Mythology book and that has read the other books in the series.

I just finished this book and I can't wait for the next installment.But I wish someone would tell Apollo we're Hoosiers, not Indianans. But my Girl Scout troop does an overnight every year at the Indianapolis Zoo and we've done one at Bluesprings Caverns, which added to my enjoyment. I thought the beginning was a bit jerky, but Riordan is definitely the storyteller of the Gods.

Even better than the first of this series. Confusing if you haven't finished the Roman & Greek heroes series, Percy Jackson series you don't need to remember or know it. No need to finish the Asgard series (not yet completed). Can't wait for book 3. And super excited for this world to expand more. Greek & Roman heroes, asgardains, egyptian gods what mythology is next?!?!?

I marvel at Rick Riordan's creativity! While i believe this series is written for young adult/young readers, so? As a "senior" reader, I find his writing educational, entertaining, and just plain FUN. Go Dude!!

I'm not too sure about this book. I can't seem to get my head around the gayness that occurres, especially when Apollo just casually talks about the guys he had/has crush on. He just says [SPOILER ALERT] he thinks Jamie is handsome and then is like 'Oh crap, this guy has a girlfriend' and excuses himself from the room. He also talks about how a guy was on of his greatest loves. The book itself is amazing, [SPOILER ALERT] Meg McCaffery is back and Apollo has to go on three quests with different people and in the end, kicks everyones but, including the New Hercules.
By Emil Hinchliff

Things heat up in the second book of the TOA series as the titular character faces his second and toughest trial yet! Sparkling wit, talk shows, sorry, Action sequences, and visions of his painful past. Overall, its a great book.

I loved this book. the characters were fun and well devoleped the plot kept me on the edge of my seat, and the humor kept me laughing throug the book. I also love how Rick can create a character for anyone to relate to in his stories. This was better thdan i expected it to be and it is a must read!!

I gotta say, in writing this review, my feelings are somewhat mixed. I should warn you, there will be spoilers.

First off, to start on a positive note, the story is a major improvement to the first book. I like the development of the characters, particularly Apollo. Meg appears once again, and she seems to finally have abandoned the evil Nero and really joined with Apollo.

There are several new characters in the story, most notably, Josephine and Emmie (whose real name escapes me at the moment; I no longer have the book to consult), and this is where I am, once again, frustrated with the author for trying to shove his political agenda down his readers' throats. I don't really care that two of his characters in this book are gay. I don't have a problem with gay people. I have a problem with gay marriage. It's wrong, gross and disgusting. You might hate me; you call me "homophobic". But you know what? I don't care if you do. I know where I stand on this matter. I stand with God, and I cannot be moved or swayed. If you have a problem with my religious beliefs, I've got some advice: GET OVER IT!!!!

Another character introduced is Georgina, the seven-year-old ADOPTED daughter of Josephine and Emmie. She enters the cave to a dark oracle, who has a history with Apollo, and comes out of it somewhat insane. She's then kidnapped by our main villain, Commodus, an evil emperor that Apollo "murdered" eons ago. He seems bent on taking over the city of Indianapolis and renaming it "Commodianapolis", (or something like that) which is a mouthful, to say the least.

He also captures two griffins, the female of which is about to lay an egg. The griffins are interesting creatures, though they don't come until maybe a third of the way into the book.

The main setting of the story is a place known as the Waystation, a safe haven of sorts, and a creation of the goddess of nets (her name starts with "b"; that's all I can remember).

They then go to the Indianapolis zoo to rescue said griffins and other would-be prisoners of Commodus, who intends to use them in a "spectacular event" at the football stadium (where the Colts play). I was there, at that zoo, only last month, so I had a very good picture of some of the areas they go to in my head.

After the zoo, they sneak into Commodus' palace to do other shenanigans (I don't know why I can't remember a lot of it; I only finished reading the book today).

And after all that, they're still not done! They must travel to a cave to visit the aforementioned dark oracle, receive a prophecy, try to interpret it, while at the same time, holding off an attack by Commodus on the Waystation. At the very end, a familiar character from the original Percy Jackson series comes into the story, to help them in the next, and presumably final, book in the series. I honestly don't know if this is an intended trilogy or five-book series, but we'll have to wait a whole year for Book Three, "The Burning Maze".

There's a GREAT DEAL of spunky humor in this book, a lot of it coming from either Leo or Apollo (and in rare cases, Meg and Calypso). I really do appreciate that. It is for that reason, therefore, that I am slightly upgrading this book's score from two stars for the first book to three stars. As much as I despise Riordan's political agenda, I have to give it an ever-so-slight pass this time. Not that I'm okay with his ridiculous political agenda, because I'm NOT. But, I have to admit, I was entertained by this book. I wouldn't recommend it for children under 12, however. I'll let parents make their own judgments on whether they let their kids read it.

???????????????????????????????? ?? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ???

Somehow Disney gets involved and the price for Kindle skyrockets. Sorry, Rick, but the storyline isn't that good to warrant the price. In fact, it's kinda lame, 'cause you keep drawing on past successful characters (which you dropped) to make it work.

As someone who regularly reviews books, I get very aggravated on behalf of authors whose books are given one star because "it arrived with a dinged up cover" or "took forever to get here." But this fiscal rape of ebook buyers has to cease. Publishers--such as Disney--who decide they are going to capitalize on the enthusiasm of children to immediately read the newest release of their favorite author are quickly becoming publishers I won't buy from. My apologies to the authors. I know you have no control over how your publisher prices your book, but every time this happens, I intend to join the "one star" crowd until publishers start listening.

As mentioned by other 1-star reviewers, this book has inappropriate gay content and violence for children. Allowed my kid to read a few chapters in and had to return. Wish children's books would come with a big fat rating on the cover like with movies.

I have not read this yet. No one has. It was just releaséd. However, Kindle version is $3.00 more than hardcover? Really? An electronic signal costs more than a physical book? Justify this for me. It makes no sense.

This was ordered by mistake. My grandson wanted the actual book. I have ordered the actual book, which,by the way is cheaper. I have had no luck in cancelling this purchase. the store needs to make cancelling an order easier.

I've been reading all of Rick Riordan's novels over the years, and although I'm an adult and they don't exactly qualify as "high literature", they sure are fun to read. This second installment to the Trials of Apollo series (which is a yet another spin-off to the Percy Jackson series) did not disappoint either.
There are characters with LGBT orientations, including the protagonist Apollo (turned human), so to people who are bothered by this, I guess stay away.

Another fun YA novel in the ever-expanding “Percy Jackson and all his friends” universe … a bit less “preachy” about the morals of the story than some of the others in that universe. Reasonably accurate to mythological and historical sources, clever modern twists, and very little “deus ex machina” writing — doubly impressive when the titular hero is “ex-deus,” as it were. Best to start with Book One, but nothing disappoints.

My son loves this author and this series, so it was a no brainer to pre-order it for a end of school year gift. Hardback books are the only way to go if your child is interested in building a physical home library. Clean, durable, sturdy and adds a classy look to the room when the shelves are full of them.