Book Review: The Scorpion and The Night Blossom by Amelie Wen Zhao

Title: The Scorpion and the Night Blossom

Author: Amelie Wen Zhao

Series/Standalone: The Three Realm Duology (Book #1)

Genre: Young Adult, Romantasy, Mythology

Pages: 400

Publisher: Penguin Random House

Year Published: 2025

Format: Physical (Library copy)

"In a world at war with demons, one girl will face the ultimate test when she is forced to enter into an ancient, deadly competition for the chance to save her mother's soul... before she loses her forever. From the New York Times bestselling author of Song of Silver, Flame Like Night comes the beginning of a dark and opulent fantasy duology, perfect for fans of Throne of Glass. 

Nine years ago, the war between the Kingdom of Night and the Kingdom of Rivers tore Àn’yīng’s family apart, leaving her mother barely alive and a baby sister to fend for. Now the mortal realm is falling into eternal night, and mó- beautiful, ravenous demons- roam the land, feasting on the flesh of humans and drinking their souls.

Àn’yīng is no longer a helpless child, though. Armed with her crescent blades and trained in the ancient art of practicioning, she has decided to enter the Immortality Trials, which are open to any mortal who can survive the journey to the immortal realm. Those who complete the Trials are granted a pill of eternal life- the one thing Àn’yīng knows can heal her dying mother. But to attain the prize, she must survive the competition.

Death is common in the Trials. Yet oddly, Àn’yīng finds that someone is helping her stay alive. A rival contestant. Powerful and handsome, Yù’chén is as secretive about his past as he is about his motives for protecting Àn’yīng.

The longer she survives the Trials, the clearer it becomes that all is not right in the immortal realm. To save her mother and herself, Àn’yīng will need to figure out whether she can truly trust the stranger she's falling for or if he's the most dangerous player of all... for herself and for all the realms."

My Rating: DNF

I made it about halfway through this book before admitting to myself that I wasn't loving it. I think that the author's writing style in this wasn't for me. I felt that I was being told a lot of things without a ton of illusion; it was like being told something from a monster manual as opposed to another method. That being said, I'm not sure what would have made it better for me. I'd be curious to try some of her other work and see how I feel, if it's the writing style or just the form of this storytelling for this one, for me. I might pick this one back up in the future, but for now, it's gonna be headed back to the library. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: A Touch of Chaos by Scarlett St. Clair

Title: A Touch of Chaos

Author: Scarlett St. Clair

Series/Standalone: Hades x Persephone (Book #4)

Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Mythology

Pages: 464

Publisher: Bloom Books

Year Published: 2024

Format: Audiobook

"The World Will Burn

Persephone, Goddess of Spring, never guessed a chance encounter with Hades, God of the Underworld, would change her life forever- but he did.

A fight for humanity and battles between gods, it's a world Persephone never thought she would see. To end the chaos, she must draw upon her darkness and embrace who she's become: Goddess, Wife, Queen of the Underworld.

Once, Persephone made bargains to save those she loves, now she will go to war for them."

My Rating: 3/5

This was not all I thought it would be. I enjoyed the series. I felt that the stakes were higher, but the spice was kind of all over the place. I've felt throughout the series that the build-up to spice isn't quite enough for me. The intimate scenes seem to come almost out of nowhere.  The characters have shown so much growth throughout. I'm curious if anyone whose read this and the Hades companion series, if the Hades one is worth it.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: A Touch of Malice by Scarlett St. Clair

Title: A Touch of Malice

Author: Scarlett St. Clair

Series/Standalone: Hades x Persephone Series (Book #3)

Genre: Romance, Adult Fiction, Mythology

Pages: 418

Publisher: Indie Published

Year Published: 2021

Format: Audiobook (Library)

"Persephone and Hades are engaged. In retaliation, Demeter summons a snowstorm that cripples New Greece, and refuses to lift the blizzard unless her daughter calls of her engagement. When the Olympians intervene, Persephone finds her future in the hands of ancient gods, and they are divided. Do they allow Persephone to marry Hades and go to war with Demeter or prohibit their union and take up arms against the God of the Dead? Nothing is certain but the promise of war."

My Rating: 4/5

This was such a great first read-through of this book. I loved the plot lines, the characters and the changes throughout. My only complaint would be that there was almost too much spice. I felt that it seemed to come out of nowhere at points where I thought we would be in a more plot-based storyline for a bit. I look forward to finishing this portion of the series soon.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Lore Olympus Vol. 7

Title: Lore Olympus Volume Seven

Author: Rachel Smythe 

Series/Standalone: Lore Olympus (Volume 7)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Adult, Romance, Mythology

Pages: 416

Publisher: Inklore

Year Published: 2024

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"Scandalous gossip, wild parties, and forbidden love- the Greek tale of Hades and Persephone gets a romantic modern update in the gorgeously illustrated, Eisner Award-winning Lore Olympus, including a brand new bonus short story!

An ingenious take on the Greek Pantheon, Lore Olympus is a modern update on the story of Hades and Persephone. Follow the propulsive love story of two Greek gods, told with lavish artwork and contemporary sensibilities.

This full-colour edition of Smythe's original Eisner Award-winning webcomic Lor Olympus features exclusive behind the scenes content and brings Greek mythology into the modern age in a sharply perceptive and romantic graphic novel."

My Rating: 5/5

I have loved this series for a while. I first found it on webtoons and then as they've been published, kept up with them in the bindup versions of the stories. I love Rachel Smythe's work and I think that her creative lense is fantastic. Her ability to work with drama, create cliff hangers and a slow-burn romance is fantastic. I can't wait to read the next instalment!

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Review: Lore Olympus Volume 6 by Rachel Smythe

Title: Lore Olympus: Vol. 6

Author: Rachel Smythe

Series/Standalone: Lore Olympus Series (Volume 6)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Adult, Romance, Retelling

Pages: 432

Publisher: Inklore

Year Published: 2024

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"Witness what the gods do after dark in the sixth volume of a stylish and contemporary reimagining of one of the best-known stories in Greek mythology, feeling exclusive behind-the-scene content from creator Rachel Smythe.

'We have to make an example of her.'

Chaos reigns in Olympus as Zeus publicly declares Persephone a traitor and issues a warrant for her arrest. But Hades defies his brother's decree, sheltering Persephone in the Underworld- and as the pair spend more time together, they are able to speak openly about their pasts. The goddess of spring admits the truth behind the bloody secret that led to Zeus's ire, and the king of the Underworld shares the trauma he suffered at the hands of his power-hungry father, Kronos.

But as Hades and Persephone's relationship grows stronger, others begin to fall apart. The bond between Hades and Zeus is stretched to its limit, threatening to fracture the peace between their realms. Persephone and Artemis's friendship hangs by a thread as the goddess of the hunt slowly uncovers the vile truth about her twin, Apollo. A line is being drawn in the heavens, putting everyone's loyalties into question as all the gods are forced to choose sides.

And as the cracks in the foundation of the pantheon spread, something darker and more earth-shattering might soon be released..."

My Rating: 4/5

I liked this volume but it wasn't my favorite out of the series. As per usual the art is excellent, and the character growth was great but it was just missing a little something plot-wise for me. While the book was long, it also felt long which is not what I hope for from a graphic novel. I look forward to seeing how Rachel Smythe finishes the series.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Lore Olympus Volume 5

Title: Lore Olympus: Volume Five

Author: Rachel Smythe

Series/Standalone: Lore Olympus (Vol. 5)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Romance, Mythology

Pages: 400

Publisher: Del Rey

Year Published: 2023

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"Scandalous gossip, wild parties, and forbidden love-- the Greek tale of Hades and Persephone gets a romantic modern update in the gorgeously illustrated, Eisner Award-winning Lore Olympus, including behind-the-scenes content!

An ingenious take on the Greek Pantheon, Lore Olympus is a modern update on the story of Hades and Persephone. Follow the propulsive love story of two Greek gods, told with lavish artwork and contemporary sensibilities.

This full-color edition of Smythe's original Eisner Award-winning webcomic Lore Olympus features exclusive behind-the-scenes content and brings Greek mythology into the modern age in a sharply perceptive and romantic graphic novel."

My Rating: 5/5

If there is ever a time these aren't 5 stars for me I will be surprised. The series as a whole is tremendous, the art is gorgeous and the storyline is so fun. I love the modern twists that we are getting alongside the myths that are sprinkled in around the side characters as well. I look forward to getting the next volume as soon as it's available at my library.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

Title: The Song of Achilles

Author: Madeline Miller

Series/Standalone: Standalone

Genre: Adult Fiction, Retelling, Romance

Pages: 408

Publisher: HarperCollins

Year Published: 2011

Format: Paperback Copy (Own It)

First Line: "My father was a king and the son of kings."

"Achilles, 'the best of all the Greeks,' son of the cruel sea goddess Thetis and the legendary king Peleus, is strong, swift and beautiful, irresistible to all who meet him. Patroclus is an awkward young prince, exiled from his homeland after an act of shocking violence. Brought together by chance, they forge an inseparable bond, despite risking the gods' wrath.

They are trained by the centaur Chiron in the art of war and medicine, but when word comes that Helen of Sparta has been kidnapped, all the heroes of Greece are called upon to lay siege to Troy in her name. Seduced by the promise of a glorious destiny. Achilles joins their cause, and torn between love and fear for his friend, Patroclus follows. Little do they know that the cruel Fates will test them both as never before and demand a terrible sacrifice."

My Rating: 4.25/5

I know, you see a rating like this and you think, "What does that even mean?" Let me explain. When I give a book 4.5/5 to me that means it just didn't quite feel like a 5, but it was so close. When I give a book this rating it means usually that it got so hyped to me that it was bound to have a bit of a letdown. I loved the writing, I loved the setting and the way the author retold the story, but I found portions of the story didn't capture my attention. I did start with the audiobook and I loved it (just didn't finish it before my loan was up). I would recommend obviously if you're a huge mythology fan, or if you are interested at all, but keep in mind that the hype can get to you.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Lore Olympus Vol. 4

Title: Lore Olympus: Vol. 4

Author: Rachel Smythe

Series/Standalone: Lore Olympus (Volume 4)

Genre: Graphic Novels, Fantasy, Mythology

Pages: 416

Publisher: Random House Worlds

Year Published: 2023

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"The rumor mill of Olympus is constantly churning, but Persephone and Hades are all anyone can talk about. With the constant gossip creating intense pressure on the pair, they decided to slow down their budding romance and focus on sorting out their own issues first.

But that's easier said than done.

Hades struggles to find support in his personal life, with Zeus trivializing his feelings and Minthe resorting to abusive patterns in their relationship. And while Hades tries to create healthier boundaries where he can-- likely finally putting a stop to his sporadic, revenge-fueled hookups with Hera- he still feels lonely and adrift.

Persephone feels equally ostracized as her classmates shut her for her connection to Hades, and she can find no refuge at home, with Apollo constantly dropping by unannounced and pushing his unwelcome advances. And on top of it all, the wrathful god of war, Ares, has returned to Olympus to dredge up his sordid history with the goddess of spring, threatening to surface Persephone's dark and mysterious past and ruin her tenuous position in the land of the gods.

Despite agreeing to take it slow, Persephone and Hades find themselves inextricably drawn toward each other once more amid the chaos. The pull of fate cannot be denied."

My Rating: 5/5

I have loved reading these physical copies of the Webtoon original comics. The art, the way the story is told, the setting of Olympus as a modern space while the mortal realm is still in traditional god-themed times. I can't wait to continue the series. 

Thanks for reading

Sidny

Book Review: Lore Olympus Vol. 3

Title: Lore Olympus Vol. 3

Author: Rachel Smythe

Series/Standalone: Lore Olympus (Volume 3)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Mythology, Romance, Adult

Pages: 384

Publisher: Del Ray

Year Published: 2022

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"Witness what gods do after dark in the third volume of stylish and contemporary reimagining of one of the best-known stories in Greek mythology, featuring a brand-new, exclusive short story from creator Rachel Smythe.

'It is natural for a King to be curious about his future Queen....'

All of Olympus- and the Underworld- are talking about the God of the Dead and the sprightly daughter of Demeter. But despite the rumors of their romance, Hades and Persephone have plenty to navigate on their own.

Since coming to Olympus, Persephone has struggled to be the perfect maiden goddess. Her attraction to Hades has only complicated the intense burden of the gods' expectations. And after Apollo's assault, Persephone fears she can no longer bury the intense feelings of hurt and love that she's worked so hard to hide. 

As Persephone contemplates her future, Hades struggles with his past, falling back into toxic habits in Minthe's easy embrace. With all the mounting pressure and expectations- of their family, friends, and enemies- both Hades and Persephone tell themselves to deny their deepest desires, but the pull between them is too tempting, too magnetic. It's fate."

My Rating:5/5

I am so glad that these are being physically published! I absolutely love the art style and the storytelling. The way the story is laid out keeps me coming back for more without being too much overall. I would highly recommend it to fans who want a cute retelling with a slow burn!

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Lore Olympus Volume 2

Title: Lore Olympus Vol. 2

Author: Rachel Smythe

Series/Standalone: Lore Olympus (Volume 2)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Fantasy, Romance, Mythology, 

Pages:368

Publisher: Inklore

Year Published: 2022

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"Persephone was ready to start a new life when she left the mortal realm for Olympus. However, she quickly discovered the dark side of her glamorous new home- from the relatively minor gossip threatening her reputation to a realm-shattering violation of her safety by the conceited Apollo- and she's struggling to find her footing in the fast moving realm of the gods. Hades is also off-balance, fighting against his burgeoning feelings for the young goddess of spring while maintaining his lonely rule of the Underworld. As the pair are drawn even closer, they must untangle the twisted webs of their past and present to build toward a new future."

My Rating: 5/5

I want to preface this by saying that I had read some of this series through webtoons before the physical copies had started to be published. And I loved them then, and I continue to love them now. Rachel Smythe's merging of mythology and current world technology leads to fun story telling and excellent art. I loved this instalment and look forward to reading more soon. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny 

Book Review: Lore Olympus: Volume 1

Title: Lore Olympus Volume 1

Author: Rachel Smythe

Series/Standalone: Lore Olympus Series (Vol. 1)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Adult, Mythology,

Pages: 384

Publisher: 2021

Year Published: Del Rey

Format: Hardcover (Own It)

"Experience the propulsive love story of two Greek gods- Hades and Persephone- brought to life with lavish artwork and an irresistible contemporary voice.

Scandalous gossip, wild parties, and forbidden love- witness what the gods do after dark in this stylish and contemporary reimagining of one of mythology's most well-known stories about creator Rachel Smythe. Featuring a brand-new, exclusive short story. Smythe's original Eisner-nominated web-comic Lore Olympus brings the Greek Pantheon into the modern age with this sharply perceptive and romantic graphic novel."

My Rating: 5/5

I had originally read most of the comics through webtoons as they were published weekly and once they were traditionally published I was quick to buy the first volume. This series has an amazing art style, an addicting storyline and great character changes. I look forward to continuing the series and reading the physical additions. I highly recommend it, it's worth the hype.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: A Touch of Ruin by Scarlett St. Clair

Title: A Touch of Ruin

Author: Scarlett St. Clair

Series/Standalone: Hades x Persephone (Book #2)

Genre: New Adult, Romance, Mythology

Pages: 417

Publisher: Self-Published

Year Published: 2020

Format: Audiobook

"Persephone's relationship with Hades has gone public and the resulting media storm disrupts her normal life and threatens to expose her as the Goddess of Spring.

Hades, God of the Dead, is burdened by a hellish past that everyone's eager to expose in an effort to warn Persephone away.

Things only get worse when a horrible tragedy leaves Persephone's heart in ruin and Hades refusing to help. Desperate, she takes matters into her own hands, striking bargains with severe consequences.

Faced with a side of Hades she never knew and crushing loss, Persephone wonders if she can truly become Hades' queen."

My Rating:4.5/5

I don't think this one was as good as the first one for me but the sequel was excellent! I think that the momentum continued and that the author really took the plot in an interesting direction. The only thing that I found was a lot was happening in a short period. This meant that some of the things that I wished had had more time for were brushed over, while others seemed to drag on for me. Also, the spice in this is phenomenal! I look forward to continuing the series.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: Lore by Alexandra Bracken

Title: Lore

Author: Alexandra Bracken

Series/Standalone: Standalone

Genre: Young Adult, Mythology, Fantasy

Pages: 480

Publisher: Disney-Hyperion

Year Published: 2021

Format: Audiobook

"Every seven years, the Agon begins. As punishment for a past rebellion, nine Greek gods are forced to walk the earth as mortals, hunted by the descendants of ancient bloodlines, all eager to kill a god and seize their divine power and immortality. Long ago, Lore Perseus fled that brutal world in the wake of her family's sadistic murder by a rival line, turning her back on the hunt's promises of eternal glory. For years she's pushed away any thought of revenge against the man-- now a god-- responsible for their deaths.

Yet as the next hunt dawns over New York City, two participants seek out her help: Castor, a childhood friend of Lore believed long dead and a gravely wounded Athena, among the last of the original gods.

The goddess offers an alliance against their mutual enemy and at last, a way for Lore to leave the Agon behind forever. But Lore's decision to bind her fate to Athena's and rejoin the hunt will come at a deadly cost- and still may not be enough to stop the rise of a new god with the power to bring humanity to its knees."

My Rating: 2.5/5

This was just ok for me. I did enjoy the story and I was interested in what was happening at the moment. But this isn't a story that is going to hold any interest for me in the future. It won't really take up space in my memory. The gods were interestingly fleshed out and the story touched on a myriad of topics, not sure that all of them were handled in the way that I enjoyed, but they were handled. Overall just fine.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Review: Rising Action by Kieron Gillen

Title: Rising Action

Author: Kieron Gillen

Artist(s): Jamie McKelvie, Matt Wilson

Series/Standalone: The Wicked + The Divine (Volume #4)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Adult, Mythology

Pages: 168

Publisher: Image Comics

Year Published: 2016

Format: Paperback (Library Copy)

"Every ninety years, twelve gods are reincarnated as young people. They are loved. They are hated. And sometimes- just sometimes- they fall into open Superstar wars. The fourth volume of the award-winning, best-selling series from acclaimed creators KIERON GILLEN, JAMIE McKelvie, and MATT Wilson is the most explosive yet."

My Rating: 5/5

This was such a great volume of this book. The plot twist in this series was amazing and watching the alliances beginning to form made me curious to see where the characters will be going. I hope to read a bit more into the characters and find out what causes them to die every four years. Will be continuing the series, as soon as possible.

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Review: Fandemonium by Kieron Gillen

Title: Fandemonium

Author: Kieron Gillen

Artist(s): Jamie McKelvie, Matt Wilson

Series/Standalone: The Wicked + The Divine (Volume 2)

Genre: Graphic Novel, Adult, Mythology

Pages: 200

Publisher: Image Comics

Year Published: 2015

Format: Paperback Copy (Library)

"The second volume of the award-winning urban fantasy series where gods are the ultimate pop stars and pop stars are the ultimate gods. Following the tragic and unjust death of Lucifer, it takes a revelation from Inanna to draw Laura back into the world of Gods and Superstardom to try and discover the truth behind a conspiracy to subvert divinity."

My Rating: 4/5

This was far more entertaining than the first book. I felt like I started to understand what was going on for the characters and the plot. There were plenty of twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. The art style is phenomenal. I look forward to continuing the series and finishing it as soon as possible. 

Thanks for reading,

Sidny

Book Review: The Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan

Title: The Mark of Athena
Author: Rick Riordan
Series/Standalone: The Heroes of Olympus (Book #3)
Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult, Mythology
Pages: 586
Publisher: Disney Hyperion
Year Published: 2012
Format: Audiobook

"Annabeth is terrified. Just when she's about to be reunited with Percy- after six months of being apart, thanks to Hera- it looks like Camp Jupiter is preparing for war. As Annabeth and her friends Jason, Piper, and Leo fly in on the Argo II, she can't blame the Roman demigods for thinking the ship is a Greek weapon. With its steaming bronze dragon figurehead, Leo's fantastical creation doesn't appear friendly. Annabeth hopes that the sight of the praetor Jason on deck will reassure the Romans that the visitors from Camp Half-Blood are coming in peace.

And that's only one of her worries. In her pocket, Annabeth carries a gift from her mother that came with an unnerving command: Follow the Mark of Athena. Avenge me. Annabeth already feels weighed down by the prophecy that will send seven demigods on a quest to find- and close- the Doors of Death. What more does Athena want from her?

Annabeth's biggest fear, though, is that Percy might have changed. What if he's now attached to Roman ways? Does he still need his old friends? As the daughter of the goddess of war and wisdom, Annabeth knows she was born to be a leader- but never again does she want to be without Seaweed Brain by her side.

Narrated by four different demigods, The Mark of Athena is an unforgettable journey across the land and sea to Rome, where important discoveries, surprising sacrifices and unspeakable horrors await. Climb aboard the Argo II, if you dare..."

My Rating: 3.75/5

It's been a busy month for my family. We have moved 6 hours away from our hometown into a new apartment and have gotten new jobs. So needless to say I probably finished this 2 weeks ago, but have just starting to have the time to read and write again. I'm excited to be able to get back to routine and to be able to give it my all once more. This story was not my favourite so far in this series. I found that the storyline both dragged and was rushed at some points. The pacing just wasn't quite right for me. I did appreciate watching the characters come together and seeing what the coming books will have to offer. I look forward to continuing the series.

Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Book Review: The Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan

Title: The Son of Neptune
Author: Rick Riordan
Series/Standalone: The Heroes of Olympus (Book #2)
Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult, Mythology
Pages: 521
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion Books
Year Published: 2011
Format: Audiobook

"Percy is confused. When he awoke from his long sleep, he didn't know much more than his name. His brain fuzz is lingering, even after the wolf Lupa told him he is a demigod and trained him to fight with the pen/sword in his pocket. Somehow Percy manages to make it to a camp for half-bloods, despite the fact that he has to keep killing monsters along the way. But the camp doesn't ring any bells with him. The only thing he can recall from his past is another name: Annabeth.

Hazel is supposed to be dead. When she lived before, she didn't do a very good job of it. Sure, she was an obedient daughter, even when her mother was possessed by greed. But that was the problem- when the Voice took over her mother and commanded Hazel to use her 'gift' for an evil purpose, Hazel couldn't say no. Now because of her mistake, the future of the world is at risk. Hazel wishes she could ride away from it all on the stallion that appears in her dreams.

Frank is a klutz. His grandmother says he is descended from heroes and can be anything he wants to be, but he doesn't see it. He doesn't even know who his father is. He keeps hoping Apollo will claim him because the only thing he is good at is archery- although not good enough to win camp war games. His bulky physique makes him feel like an ox, especially in front of Hazel, his closest friend at camp. He trusts her completely- enough to share the secret he holds close to his heart.

Beginning at the 'other' camp for half-bloods and extending as far as the land beyond the gods, this breathtaking second installment of the Heroes of Olympus series introduces new demigods, revives fearsome monsters, and features other remarkable creatures, all destined to play a part in the Prophesy of Seven."

My Rating: 4/5 

This is the second book in the highly acclaimed Heroes of Olympus series. I was interested to pick up this book, but due to how long it took me to complete it I found that I started to lose interest in the story line. I was excited to see characters that I'd heard about in the first book, and revisit favorite characters from the original series. I think that the pacing was good, I just don't know if I related to these characters very much. I am excited to continue on with the series as soon as possible through audiobooks.

Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Book Review: The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan

Title: The Lost Hero
Author: Rick Riordan
Series/Standalone: The Heroes of Olympus (Book #1)
Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult, Mythology
Pages: 557
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion Books
Year Published: 2010
Format: Audiobook

"Jason has a problem.
He doesn't remember anything before waking up in a bus full of kids on a field trip. Apparently, he has a girlfriend named Piper, and a best friend named Leo. They're all students at a boarding school for 'bad kids'. What did Jason do to end up here? And where is here, exactly?

Piper has a secret.
Her father has been missing for three days, ever since she had that terrifying nightmare about his being in trouble. Piper doesn't understand her dream, or why her boyfriend suddenly doesn't recognize her. When a freak storm hits during the school trip, unleashing strange creatures and whisking her, Jason, and Leo away to someplace called Camp Half-Blood, she has a feeling she's going to find out.

Leo has a way with tools.
When he sees his cabin at Camp Half-Blood, filled with power tools and machine parts, he feels right at home. But there's weird stuff, too- like the curse everyone keeps talking about and some camper who's gone missing. Weirdest of all, his bunkmates insist that each of them- including Leo- is related to a god. Does this have anything to do with Jason's amnesia or the fact that Leo keeps seeing ghosts?"

My Rating: 4/5

This was a really good read. I was surprised at how the author aged the characters and how the change in dynamic really helped my enjoyment. I thought that the writing style has definitely improved since the Percy Jackson series. I also appreciated the change of pace and how quickly this crew of demi-gods was put to the test. I plan to continue this series by audio book as I loved the narrator and the storytelling.

Thanks for reading,
Sidny 

Spoiler: The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan

This series started off with a bang and the same sense of humour that I've got to know and love with Rick Riordan's storytelling. I loved the change of pace and how quickly our character got thrown into camp and out of it again with a new mission. I also enjoyed seeing demi-gods from other godly children. They were interesting to read about.

Characters:
Leo: I really liked Leo and his tinkering ways. It made me happy to see a more diverse demi-god who has such a unique talent. I also liked that he was trained by Hera to be a "little hero." 

Jason: I think that his amnesia really drove the story overall and made the story a bit of a mystery. I also enjoyed the way that the characters interacted with Jason as they found out more about his past. I'm excited to see how his past is so different than Percy Jackson's.

Piper: I loved that she was a daughter of Aphrodite who was willing to go on a mission, not just reapply her lipstick and think about her looks. I loved everything about her.

Hera: What a catty character for a goddess. I loved that this was such a dilemma, whether or not we should save her, or let her suffer.

Thalia: Glad to see her again, with the hunters of Artemis.

Coach Hedge: I loved his attitude and his ego even though there were times where it was annoying.  I can't wait to see more of this character in the next book.

Thanks for reading,
Sidny

Book Review: The Last Olympian by Rick Riordan

Title: The Last Olympian
Author: Rick Riordan
Series/Standalone: Percy Jackson and the Olympians (Book #5)
Genre: Young Adult, Mythology, Fantasy
Pages: 381
Publisher: Disney Hyperion Books
Year Published: 2009
Format: Audiobook

"All year the half-bloods have been preparing for battle against the Titans, knowing the odds of a victory are grim. Krono's army is stronger than ever, and with every god and half-blood he recruits, the evil Titan's power only grows.

While the Olympians struggle to contain the rampaging monster Typhon, Kronos begins his advance on New York City, where Mount Olympus stands virtually unguarded. Now it's up to Percy Jackson and an army of young demigods to stop the Lord of Time.

In this momentous final book in the New York Times best-selling series, the long-awaited prophecy surrounding Percy's sixteenth birthday unfolds. An as the battle for Western civilization rages on the streets of Manhattan, Percy faces a terrifying suspicion that he may be fighting against his own fate."

My Rating: 4/5

I finally made it. I reread all these books before the end of 2017. I'm so freaking proud of myself. Not that they were even a struggle to get through. This series is amazing to read and the story-telling is fun and humorous while handling hard-hitting ideas. I loved the way the characters grew and learned throughout their own experiences. I also plan to continue reading The Heroes of Olympus series for the first time. Either through audiobook or physical reading, I'm sure I'll enjoy them just as much.

Thanks for reading,
Sidny